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This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. 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. Also, as long as you take your dog to vet check-ups regularly, and if the dog has received all the necessary vaccines for his age, you can be sure that your dog is healthy. However, an alarm could be triggered if you notice that your dog has problems with obesity or if he is underweight. In that case, it is necessary to find the reason for the inappropriate weight and work to solve this problem as soon as possible. A fully grown male Boxer weighs between 65 to 80 pounds. The adult weight of a female Boxer goes from 50 to 65 pounds on average. However, various factors significantly affect the average weight and height of a Boxer, so there might be some deviations from the average weight and height of these dogs. We will explain the factors affecting Boxer Growth in detail below. How big is your pet friend going to be? Birth-Two Weeks When they are just born, all that Boxer puppies do is eat and sleep. In this stage, puppies do not have teeth and are deaf and blind. However, this stage is not passive for Boxer dogs. Boxer puppies usually weigh around 3 pounds when they are born. At the end of their second week of life, their average weight is between 4 and 5. Therefore, this growth stage presents a rapid growth stage for Boxers. Two Weeks Weeks Being a large dog breed, Boxer dogs need a lot of food so they can grow accordingly. If you are used to having a small dog, be ready to give a lot more food to your new pet! When these dogs are around 4 weeks old, they start to eat solid food. During this period, they gain a lot of weight, so it is necessary to be careful not to exaggerate with the dog food. By the time they are 4 weeks old, Boxer puppies gain teeth and also develop a sense of hearing and open their eyes. When they are 5 weeks old, Boxer dogs start to show the urge to socialize and need their playtime. At the stage between 6 and 8 weeks, your puppy should start with his first vaccinations. When they are 8 weeks old, Boxer puppies are ready to leave their mothers and go to their new homes. In the next stage, when Boxer puppies are from 9 to 12 weeks old, dog owners will enjoy them the most, since this is the period when these dogs are ready to learn some basic tricks and commands. At the end of this period, both male and female Boxer puppies should be around 12 inches tall, according to the breed standard. Three Months-Six Months This is the period when your new puppy starts to explore the world. In this stage, it is extremely important to introduce your Boxer to new places and new people. This is the best way to properly socialize and train your dog. In terms of weight for this stage, a healthy weight for a Boxer at 5 months is between 33 and 40 pounds. As to height, a 6-months old Boxer should be around 18 inches tall at 6 months. Six Months Months Compared to some smaller breeds, you sometimes might think that your Boxer is not acting according to his age. Larger dogs or medium-sized dogs such as Boxers reach maturity in later stages than some smaller dogs. You might have to wait a while until you have an adult Boxer in your home! Most dogs of the Boxer breed reach their adult size when they are around 1 year old. However, some of these dogs continue to grow, so, according to the Boxer growth chart, these dogs will reach their full height and full body weight at the age of 18 to 24 months. According to some opinions, it takes up to three years for Boxer dogs to reach their full maturity! So, be prepared to enjoy a long period of childhood behavior from your dog friend. Larger dogs usually have a shorter life expectancy than smaller dogs, and we are not quite sure yet what is the main reason for this. What Factors Affect Boxer Growth? If you are well acquainted with the Boxer growth chart, you will be able to provide your dog with the lifestyle he needs to have to become a happy and healthy dog. A couple of factors might significantly affect the growth of your Boxer. Genetics Genetics is very important for your dog in general, as it largely determines the appearance and behavior of a dog. If this information is not available to you, you can always have a DNA test done that can help you find out how big your dog might get. Going for a walk, running around the yard or any other activity is always welcome to help your Boxer spend the tremendous energy he possesses. Although exercise is essential for this dog, it is important to make sure that exercise is not overdone. If a Boxer gets too much exercise before his bones and joints are properly developed, this could negatively affect his further growth. Nutrition Since Boxers are bigger dogs, they need a lot of quality food to develop properly. However, every Boxer owner must be extremely careful here. The food your Boxer gets should be full of vitamins and minerals, but you should not overdo it with the amount of food. Two meals a day is quite enough for a Boxer, so try not to leave food out for your dog outside of these two feedings. This way, the dog will learn his routine and will not look for extra food. Boxers are dogs that easily become obese, so proper feeding habits need to be instilled at an early age. Bottom Line We know that all dog owners sometimes wonder if their pet is at the right weight and height according to their age. To make it easier for you to answer these questions, we have described the Boxer growth chart in this article. By following this chart, you can conclude whether your dog is in the average weight and height range that corresponds to his age. If you notice minor deviations, do not stress! Various factors affect the growth process of your Boxer, and, remember, some Boxers continue growing even after their second year of life. All you as a responsible dog owner need to do is provide your dog with enough love, exercise, quality food, and regular visits to the vet. This way, your Boxer, without any doubt, will grow into a healthy and big dog! As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. We can see when your Boxer puppy will become their adult size and reach its full height. Your new puppy will grow rapidly for the first two weeks. Your pup should weigh between 4. When your doggo is between six and eight weeks old, they should also prepare for their first vaccinations. Males should be around 17 to 19 inches .At one year old, females should weigh between 55 and 65 pounds .Many factors are involved. For your doggo to maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitoring their growth and weight is a good idea. How can you tell how big a Boxer will get? Within the first six months of age, your Boxer will grow rapidly. You can tell how big your pooch may get by looking at their paws and head. For example, your furry friend may look disproportionate for a while. However, some parts of their body will catch up to the rest within a few months or even a few weeks. Is your Boxer at a healthy weight? You can typically tell whether or not your Boxer is at a healthy weight by their ribs. But, on the other hand, if you can feel and see their ribs, they may be underweight. Always check with your vet to be on the safe side. What are some Boxer dog body shape changes? Boxer puppies grow in height faster than their weight gain. When this dog breed matures and becomes an adult, they will have a wide chest. But, overall, Boxer is strong and lean. In addition, different factors are involved when it comes to impacting how your dog grows. In addition, reputable breeders should have this information. The nutrition you feed your pooch can help or hinder their growth. For example, if you feed them dog food with unhealthy fillers and lots of fat, they may become obese, thus hurting their growth and overall health. Will neutering or spaying your Boxer affect their growth? Spaying or neutering your Boxer has more pros than cons. For example, some health conditions may include hip dyslexia, bloat, acne, arthritis, and cancer. The best way to ensure your pooch remains healthy is to work together with your veterinarian. Take your dog to regular vet appointments at least once per year for an annual check-up. In addition, talk to your vet about the type of dog food and exercise your Boxer should be getting. If your doggo is overweight or underweight, the vet will be able to help. Finally, properly groom your doggo. Physical activity Boxers need plenty of room to run around and stretch their legs. However, they love to play and enjoy a round of fetch with you in a fenced-in yard. Just be sure to wait until their bones and joints are fully developed before taking them for jogs or hikes. Otherwise, they could have joint issues later in life. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth If your Boxer is a little bigger or small than the others of its breed, that may not necessarily be a bad thing. However, some issues can occur. For example, your pooch may be smaller due to a growth hormone deficiency. This controls the growth rate in dogs, their bone and teeth development and maintains a healthy coat. Dwarfism could also be the reason. When do Boxers stop growing? You can expect your Boxer to be fully grown and stop growing between 18 and 24 months of age. This system works on a scale of one to nine. One means your pup is underweight and unhealthy. Nine means they are extremely overweight. The ideal place on the scale where you want your large dog to be is a five. What should you do if your Boxer is growing too fast? Growth disorders can occur in larger dogs, such as Boxers. If you notice your dog growing too fast, talk to your vet first. How to help your Boxer lose weight if he is overweight? This includes their diet and exercise. Take a look at what dog food you feed your pooch. In addition, do you feed your doggo people food and table scraps? Do Boxer mixes vary in size? If you want to learn more, you can read about Boxer mixes here. How Big Is Your Boxer? These happy doggos are a delight to have around. Boxers are great companions dogs for anyone young or old. While this pooch can have certain health conditions, they do have an average growth track. Overall, with proper exercise and dieting, your Boxer will develop into a happy, healthy pup. Did your Boxer puppy grow on track? Let us know in the comments below. Further reading: Learn more about the Growth of other Dog Breeds. However, boxers are high-energy dogs who require plenty of exercise to remain calm. Without exercise, they may become hyper or aggressive. Similarly, without proper training or socialization, boxers may exhibit fear-based aggression, particularly with strangers and children. How do you train a 9 week old boxer puppy? How much food should a 9 week old boxer puppy eat? This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Are boxers easy to train? Boxers are not a particularly easy dog breed to train. They are high energy, especially when they are young. With proper training and leadership, they can turn out to be good dogs. Do not treat them negatively, as they really thrive off of a positive human connection. How long does it take to toilet train a boxer puppy? A general guideline in house training a dog is that a 2 month old Boxer puppy can hold its needs for 2 hours, a 3 month old for 3 hours and so on. The maximum time that any dog should ever be expected to hold their needs is 8 hours and this is for a full grown adult canine. Are boxers cuddlers? Boxers are known for their affectionate natures and their tendency to bond firmly with their human families. How hard is it to house train a boxer puppy? Although Boxers are quick learners, they tend to be stubborn when they do not want to do something. It is important to train Boxer puppies at an early age, as they can become hard to train and control. Male Dog Track your Boxer's weight and compare it to other dogs! Discover the ideal weight for your Boxer and track his progress! Register your dog or puppy now for free and become a part of our growing community of over 7. Boxer: Frequently asked questions about the dog breed How much does a Boxer puppy weigh? Typically, a Boxer puppy weighs around 12,5 - 22,9 lbs at 2 months old and continues to gain an additional 18,24 lbs over the next 2 months. By approximately 18 weeks, when the puppy reaches the adolescent stage, a Boxer puppy weighs about 29,2 - 38,5 lbs. What is the typical size of a Boxer? The size of an Boxer can vary depending on gender and genetics. Generally, male Boxers reach a shoulder height of approximately 60 cm, while females have an average shoulder height of around .When is the dog breed Boxer fully grown? The dog breed Boxer usually reaches full physical maturity at about 15 to 15 months of age. However, this may vary from individual to individual, as each dog has its own growth rate. What is the average weight of a fully grown Boxer? The weight of a fully grown Boxer dog can vary depending on factors such as gender and genetics. On average, male dogs of this breed typically weigh between .Female dogs, on the other hand, usually have a weight range of .What is the average lifespan of a Boxer dog? Boxers generally have a life expectancy of approximately 10 to 12 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, they can lead happy and healthy lives. Our goal is to promote and support healthy growth of your dog.

By 6 months, they are just about there. It takes a little longer for them to reach their mature weight. They are considered fully grown at 18 months. Mostly named for the breeders who created them, there are said to be four distinct varieties of American Bulldog today, and yes, they are slightly different sizes. Both taller 23 to 27 inches and more muscular up to pounds , they most closely resemble their cousin pups, the English Bulldog. They have longer muzzles and are more leanly built than the Johnson dogs. The Painter American Bulldog was unfortunately created exclusively for fighting purposes. These dogs are around the same height as the other two but much lighter 55 to 75 pounds. Their breeding was poorly done initially, but responsible facilities are now working on healthier dogs with better temperaments. They are said to be the true American Bulldogs. Again, they are a little smaller than the first two types at 21 to 26 inches and 60 to 97 pounds. Aside from these, there are various hybrid American Bulldogs that are a combination of two or more of the above. It can be tricky to predict the exact measurements of these dogs are genetics are complicated. Photo by Lucas Ludwig on Unsplash There also tend to be gender differences with these dogs, as is the case with larger, more muscular breeds. Females weigh 60 to 80 pounds and stand between 20 and 23 inches high. Males weigh 75 to pounds and are around 22 to 25 inches in height. American Bulldog Growth Patterns By the time these dogs are six months old, they are already close to their adult height. They will often reach this somewhere between 9 and 12 months but will continue to put on weight significantly into their first year. As large dogs, ABs are said to be at their mature size at around 18 months. Still, realistically male dogs on the larger end of the spectrum could continue to gain muscle mass right up to their second birthday and even beyond this. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. Depending on their gender, their parents, and the kind of lifestyle they have working dog, active companion, family dog , an adult American Bulldog will be around 20 to 27 inches to the shoulder and will weigh somewhere between 55 to pounds. They are categorized as a large breed. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Large dogs are said to be fully grown at around 18 months of age. They will often achieve their mature height somewhat earlier than that at between 9 months to 12 months, depending on whether they are destined to be smaller or larger pups. However, they will continue to gain weight as their muscles develop for quite a while after this. This will especially be the case if they are getting plenty of exercise. Genetics provides the best understanding we have on this. American Bulldogs are gaining a better reputation these days as fun and friendly family dogs. They are especially beloved by particularly active individuals looking for a little company on their walks, hikes, runs, etc. Hopefully, this article has been able to address these, and you have a fair understanding of what to expect from your future puppy. Her coloring seems to be pretty rare. She is mainly fawn with a white underside and paws and the cutest white spot on the back of her neck. Trixie is almost 4 years old and she weighs in around 85 pounds. She is the biggest baby I have ever seen—she looks tough but is the most gentle, loving dog. She always wants to cuddle and needs to be with people ALL the time. My father, who has had a huge fear of dogs all his life, even fell completely in love with her. She loves when she sees me cooking her food—yes she is spoiled and gets home-cooked meals! Going for walks around the neighborhood every night is a must for her. My year-old son gets along wonderfully with Trixie and she is very good with him. Although Trixie doesn't really appreciate the whole dog costume thing we can sometimes get a hat on her. Trixie is a smart dog and I am so happy to have her as a part of our family. They require a lot of work but I am a work-at-home mom so it's not a problem. Rocky and Roxy are brother and sister.Baby Rocco is 2 years old. Honestly, I don't know what I would do without them. He lived for 9 years and was a great part of my life. I am a former American Gladiator and Doc used to hang out backstage. Everybody loved him! At well over 40 pounds 18 kg and still only 3. American Bulldogs are currently under close observation in the UK, and soon may be added to the list of "dangerous dogs". I want to put my dog on as many sites as possible so if the time comes, I will have memories all over the Internet. Her name is Shomi, and she really is the light of my life. I hate going to work and having to leave her on her own. She helps me at times that any other human contact just will not do. I used to be so scared of dogs that looked like these do, but I met a friend who had two of them. Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 10 weeks old Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 6 months old sitting on the couch Shadow the American Bulldog at 10 months old looking over the back of the couch Jynx the XL American Bulldog at 5 years old—"My big boy. He's a gentle giant. Jynx shown here at 5 years old and pounds 56 kg " Tut the American Bulldog puppy at 8 weeks old—"This is Tut. I got him at 5 weeks of age. I never wanted a male dog, but now I won't trade him for anything! At 10 weeks old he weighed 22 pounds. She wasn't sure what to think about the noise the camera was making! She's a very smart girl, but awfully stubborn! We have started obedience training with her and although commands take a while to imprint, once she has it, she's golden! She now sits in her "spot" in the kitchen and waits quietly and patiently while we fill her food and water bowl. When her bowls are full she continues to wait patiently, all eyes on us, until we tell her "Good girl, you can have it! He has been a tremendous addition to our family!! We are a family of five and never before had a dog. He loves to fetch, play tug and when it is time to mellow out, he does!!! He simply picks a spot in the room and relaxes while we go about with our business!! We couldn't be happier with Cooper and can't wait for everything that is to come!!! Maggie is a three-year-old American Bulldog. Her mom is a Johnson type and her dad is a Scott type. We did not know anything about this breed before we got her but we quickly realized that we had to learn fast. She is very strong-willed and also just plain strong! This breed needs hours of exercise a day and a strong pack leader. By fulfilling her needs, we have been able to see her develop to her full potential. American Bulldogs are not for everyone so please choose this breed only after very careful thought. She is loving, fearless and protective. She is also exceptionally smart. She knows her toys by name and could play hide-and-seek for hours. When we tell her to go to her bed she does and does not get up until given permission so we can eat dinner without her begging for bits. She truly listens to her people and is eager to please. She does not like looking at herself in the mirror and she growls at animals on TV and in movies. We will never own a different breed. She has our hearts forever. We've had CeeCee about 5 months now and she has become a very much loved member of our family. Talk about personality! If it weren't for his instruction, CeeCee would be unmanageable. We didn't train her to do or not do anything; she just did her thing and usually agreed with us and followed us around. I started walking for my sanity's sake and she enjoyed tagging along.She was a little over a year old when she was given to us by friends who had to move across the country and couldn't take her along. So before she came to our house, we started reading everything we could find on American Bulldogs. I saw the info on the dogbreedinfo site about Cesar and devoured his book. We found the show and soon after I started ordering the DVD sets so I could watch the episodes over and over. As soon as she got here, we took her for a long walk together. She thinks any package left by the delivery man is her new chew toy, and still gets too excited occasionally, but she is learning to sit still and control her impulses. Our neighbors have wolf-dogs that occasionally get loose and it doesn't scare CeeCee a bit wish I could say the same for me. She holds her own and is gradually winning them over. CeeCee came to us during a time when I was grieving a very traumatic event. She was the catalyst for letting go of things I couldn't fix or change. At first, we were tempted to rename her Bessie. She had just had a litter of pups and the resemblance to your average Holstein was remarkable. Now, all trimmed up and dressed in her fancy black lipstick, she makes us all smile. He is my first dog and has been the best dog anyone could ever have asked for. After originally being chosen by another owner, Casey spent the first 2 months on his own crated nearly 23 hours a day, by himself without a toy in his crate. Since that time he has been the most loveable, affectionate dog anyone could ask for. He loves to play with other dogs, especially his new 3-month-old sister. He even tries to play with our 3-year-old cat. A true Johnson bully, he loves to be out doors running and training. His favorite things to do are play with his football, play tug, dig holes and eat freshly fallen snow. My husband has watched the Dog Whisperer gaining a lot of tips on how to get Carson to "calm" down. She loves people and thinks that everyone must love her. After using some of the techniques on the show, she has really changed into a calmer dog. Rose was a rather destructive puppy, but only when left alone. I had to crate her during periods when my wife and I would both be away to keep her from destroying our home or ingesting foreign objects. I thought we had taken on more than we could handle, but she learned commands and tricks faster than any dog I'd ever had. We began educate ourselves, and the first step was to walk her 2 miles a day, play fetch and Frisbee for marathon sessions, built her a "spring pole" of sorts, and even take long bike rides with her on leash. Her excitability at newcomers decreased right away, and her furniture-chewing habit ceased. Currently at almost 4 years old, she's the best dog I could ever hope for. I shudder to think that we considered giving her up for adoption, and now people ask us how we have such a well-trained dog! And Rose required being handled a bit more sternly than the Labs, Rottie, and mostly mixed breeds I'd owned previously. Only one harsh correction was usually needed; two thousand light vocal reprimands meant nothing. Today if we are playing fetch and the ball goes over the fence, she looks at me almost trembling and I can either tell her "get it" allowing her to hop the fence, retrieve, and hop back or give her a stay command. At 18 months of age, I never believed this dog could restrain herself from any impulse. I only have one dog of this breed to draw on, but I'd venture to say that the American Bulldog needs stimulation, love, play, but most of all exercise and an occasional heavy hand early on, so we could establish her place in our pack. She has made my wife and me far more physically active than we had been, and even that is life enhancing. They are incredibly powerful; playing tug with her has to be experienced to be believed. At only 78 pounds, Rose can jump, pull and bite like nothing else. She once jumped up and bit a tree limb and just hung and shook after I took her rope toy down from the limb. Their enthusiasm is a big part of their charm, but I would not recommend this breed to a busy person who can't devote the time. She is great around kids, cats, other dogs, and even just barks or whimpers when she encounters a snake or turtle while we're camping. But Rose was on the fast track to being given up, when we realized she simply needed more exercise and for us to be more firm with her. He requires a lot of exercise or he can get himself into trouble he is very strong. The most important thing in raising him was being firm and consistent on everything. He is very smart and learns things quickly, even bad habits. He is somewhat protective of females and children around strangers, but if introduced loves everyone. Benelli is excellent with our 2 young children, ages 2 and 3. She's so calm and gentle that my 3-year-old can hold the leash while we go for walks. She absolutely loves our cats and she gets along very well with our other dog. This is our first American Bulldog and we couldn't ask for a better dog!! Her name is Wanda. I have learned so much about her from your website; it is very interesting and useful. I taught her how to sit and how to walk beside me , not in front of me by your instructions. We live in El Salvador in Central America. He's my first AB and I am impressed with the breed. His father is a Johnson type doggy and his mom a Scott type. Porky the American Bulldog puppy at 10 weeks, weighing 21 pounds Belle the American Bulldog at 3 years old—"We rescued Bella a year ago from a pen in a neighbor's garden. She weighed 34 pounds 17 kilos and had ten pups inside her. She was a very scared and seemed to be an aggressive dog. I broke through the fence when no one had been to her cage for 4 days. After a lot of shouting and abuse from my neighbor she eventually let me have her. She had 10 pups in my summerhouse and slowly each day she came to trust me a little more. She still growled and was scared of everyone else. We brought her into our house and had a cage for her. Cesar Millan was and is my hero. He gave me the belief in myself that I could cope with such a big scared dog. We have now had her for a year. She is like a different dog. She sleeps with the cats that she once so wanted to attack. She no longer needs the hated cage and loves visitors that used to scare her. I have never had a dog before and to be honest never really wanted one, but my Bella has filled a gap I never knew was there. So for anyone out there thinking about owning a rescued American Bulldog all you need is lots of patience, a strong will and a touch of Cesar Millan. Hip dysplasia Premature death You can make your American Bulldog look bigger and stronger by investing time into his fitness. Taking him running, doing weight pulling, trying out a sport such as agility training or taking him swimming will all increase his muscle mass. By feeding him a high-quality diet with a lot of protein, his body will change the quickest. At what age is an American Bulldog fully grown? This breed is full-grown around the age of 18 months. If you continue exercising your dog diligently, he will bulk up more. When a dog is spayed or neutered, this interrupts the hormone production. Male and female sexual hormones function in signaling the body when to stop growing. Dogs that are spayed or neutered early in life actually will become taller and grow longer than their intact littermates. This difference is less pronounced in females. How much food should my Bulldog puppy eat to become tall? Feeding growing puppies with high-quality food is extremely important — if you do not provide adequate nutrition, your dog cannot grow up to become a strong and healthy adult. Growing American Bulldog puppies will have a big appetite! You should feed your pup several meals a day. For puppies under 4 months: feed 4 meals a day For puppies from months: feed 3 meals a day After 10 months: feed 2 meals a day You should never switch to feeding just one large meal every day. On the one hand, this can lead to low blood sugar in your dog as the time interval between the feedings is too long. On the other hand, feeding very large meals and having your very hungry dog scarfe them down increases the risk for bloat, a potentially fatal stomach torsion seen in large dogs. As far as total feeding amounts, plan to feed your American Bulldog puppy: 3 cups per day until 4 months of age Up to 5 cups per day between months cups a day for adults over 12 months If you lead a very active lifestyle, your dog will burn more calories than if you have a more sedentary lifestyle. Any kind of dog sport or special activity you do with your dog is going to require him to take in additional calories. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

We here at Pug Place have the ultimate grumble, including a white pug, a chocolate pug, a few silver pugs and even a little reverse brindle pug. We have original black and fawn pugs too! We love sharing the love of pugs with new families and friends. Happy, Healthy Baby Pugs! Our baby pugs get regular vet visits and are raised in a happy loving home. We have some very excited pug puppies to share with you. We are SO happy with baby Penny. Thank you for everything Pug Place! Great place just looking to share Pug Love! Pugs Place Puppies All puppies come vet checked, with first immunizations and vaccination certificate. Pug love and light from our Oregon grumble!! Happy Homes Oregon Pug Puppy facilitator that has been providing puppies since to happy homes. Loving Home Our pug puppies raised in a happy home with regular vet visits to make sure our pugs are happy and healthy. Happy puppies full of energy looking for their new forever home, Contact us today! Follow our Pugs Place on social Follow our social and get exclusive updates on the Pugs! Contact Us. Social Media: Facebook 4. The breeder primarily focuses on conformation, health, and temperament and has been striving to uphold the high breed standards established by the Pug Dog Club of America for 30 years. Devoted to improving its current breeding program, Northwest Pugs is importing high-quality Pugs from various states to serve as champion show dogs and household companions. They provide a two-year health guarantee. They provide Pugs and French Bulldogs that are born and raised in their family. Every puppy receives individual attention and affection and is well-socialized before going to its forever home. Moreover, you can count on the experienced staff to assist you in your journey of raising your new companion. In terms of health, every puppy is thoroughly vet-checked, receives age-appropriate immunizations, and is dewormed. The average lifespan of a Pug is 12 to 15 years, although there are cases of a few Pugs who have lived for 20 years! Despite being small, they are an extremely determined and highly intelligent breed. However, they occasionally experience sudden bursts of energy and run at the speed of the wind, especially if there are other pets or Pugs to accompany them. They have a reputation for being naughty, so you will certainly not be bored with a Pug around. Nevertheless, they are gentle and loving critters with a high tolerance for children and seniors. Regarding training, Pugs are relatively easy to train despite their clown-like personalities and a slight stubborn streak. And because of their people-pleasing attitude, they succumb to instructions quickly. As far as grooming goes, Pugs have short coats. But be warned; they shed a lot! On top of that, Pug fur sticks to everything. So, if you have allergies or are into vacuuming daily, a Pug might not be your ideal household companion. We hope they can help you find a beloved furry companion that brings immense joy and happiness to your home! Feel free to contact these breeders for more information or visit their facilities to see first-hand how they raise and train their Pugs.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Think of the right breed you want, your space, time, and lifestyle. Most of all, consider if you can afford to buy a GSD. This article will focus on the cost of buying and raising a GSD so you know what to expect and how much funds to allocate ahead of time if you finally decide to buy a GSD. German Shepherd Puppies Price Range The following price range is from reputable or responsible breeders who can show bloodline certifications and proof of health testing so expect the initial purchase price to be high. Owning a purebred German Shepherd will always come with a high price tag because breeders often charge high prices for purebred dogs in order to ensure that they find good owners. Additionally, this price can be even higher if the German Shepherd is a show dog or comes from a kennel known to produce prize-winning dogs. Purebred GSD s have certain genetic traits or appearances like their parents and other ancestors. This means purebred GSDs belong to the same breed. So if you buy a purebred puppy, you already have an idea about his general physical appearance and behavioral characteristics. Czech German shepherds have been used for working purposes because of their strength and intelligence. If you want to buy a good Czech GSD, you need to find a good breeder. Is It Normal? All GSDs can be born either black, grey, or white and can change color as they grow but black german shepherds are born black as the name implies until they reach adulthood. Also, expect to pay a pretty penny if you want a show quality black GSD. Finding a good breeder who has puppies available is not easy since it is such a rare color. Why Does the Cost Vary First of all, the price depends on the breeder. It also depends on the pedigree and colorings of the German shepherd puppy. Well-reputed breeders price their German shepherds by considering their expenses in breeding, raising, training, and showing their dogs. Of course, German shepherd puppies bred for show quality are more expensive than dogs bred for companionship or family pets only. Sometimes the only difference between the two is their color. Most of the time these organizations health screen German shepherd puppies before placing them for adoption. It is advisable to set aside a monthly budget for your GSD. Food The amount of food you give depends on your GSD. Just make sure you give a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats. Because German Shepherd puppies are constantly exploring their environment most of the time, they eat more high-energy food than adult GSDs. They need to eat smaller meals each day. Aside from their main meals, treats are also important to have a healthy and happy German shepherd puppy. Shelter Since every GSD deserves a good home, you should provide your German shepherd puppy with a comfortable bed inside your home. For your GSDs outside, you may provide a kennel for them and make sure their shelter is cozy and free from dirt. Expect to pay a hundred dollars for annual exams and vaccinations. However, too many vitamins can also have negative consequences so before giving any supplements, ask your vet first. Other factors to consider Aside from making sure they have enough food, comfortable shelter, and keeping up with the vaccination schedule of your GSD, there are other miscellaneous additions to consider. Take into consideration obedience training; grooming essentials brushes, combs, toenail clippers, and shampoo toys, and other unforeseen problems. You may also go to professional dog shows to meet with several breeders. Take your time to meet them, visit their homes, and get to know their dogs. Buy from a reputable hobby breeder, experienced breeder, or responsible breeder. You can recognize if the seller is a responsible breeder if he has clean facilities, well-fed dogs with complete records and certifications. Conclusion Finding the best breeder of German Shepherds is not easy. Do your research and avoid impulse buying because if you purchase a German shepherd puppy that is improperly bred, he may grow up with health and behavioral problems, such as disabilities and aggression. Start preparing your budget or save up now to buy the GSD of your dreams. 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. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. You can get this puppy elsewhere for a lesser price, but you want to ensure you receive a healthy dog with great genes. Should you buy a German Shepherd puppy or an older dog? The answer to this will be based on your preference and lifestyle. But there are also pros and cons to buying a puppy or an adult dog. Adopt whichever feels right to you. If you intend to buy a German Shepherd, know that the breeding of dogs is more involved than just putting a sire and dam together. Reputable breeders look into the health and genetics of the parents. When the puppies are born, they get them health-tested, too. For example, the puppies get hip x-rays, elbow x-rays, thyroid tests, cardiac tests, and a canine ophthalmologist exam. In most cases, the breeder will ensure that the puppies are up-to-date on their vaccinations before going to their new owners. Are large GSD dogs more expensive than small ones? No, because a purebred German Shepherd is a large dog and only comes in one size. Male GSDs can grow to be 24 to 26 inches 61 to 66 cm , with female GSDs being slightly smaller at 22 to 24 inches 59 to 61 cm. Do German Shepherds that train as service dogs cost more? Yes, German Shepherds that are trained as service dogs are more expensive. This is because they are selectively bred and go through special training. Bloodline affects the purchase fee. The West German Show Line is bred based on the breed standard. They make great house protectors, are social, and need a high amount of physical activity. Working line German Shepherds are fully trained with various skills and excel in obedience. Some of the most expensive German Shepherds are the ones that look different. For example, this pooch can come in a few rare coat colors. The colors may include Panda, Isabella, or Black. In addition, some German Shepherds might have one or two blue eyes. Take into account whether you want your German Shepherd as a family dog or a working protection dog. A companion will be less expensive. In addition, the litter size of German Shepherds is about 6 to 10 puppies. Therefore, the more puppies in a litter, the less the puppies will cost. When searching for a German Shepherd puppy, your best bet is to go through a reputable breeder rather than a search aid site. This is because you can get to know the breeder during the process. There is nothing wrong with being a hobby breeder, but they may have less experience than a professional one. For example, test their knowledge of the German Shepherd breed as a whole. Ask them about the family tree and the health history of the parents and the puppies. In addition, discuss the temperament and traits of the dogs as well. Finally, ask if the puppies have been crate trained and gone to the vet. The breeder should be able to answer these questions flawlessly. Alternatively, you can find a German Shepherd rescue. In addition, you might find puppies as well as adults. These factors include traits of the dog, but it also depends on where you adopt the dog as well. Age Age is one of the biggest factors in pricing a German Shepherd. A puppy is more costly than an adult dog. German Shepherd puppies aged 8 to 12 weeks will be the most expensive. This is because owners want to train the puppy to their lifestyle. Therefore, puppies older than 12 weeks will be more affordable. Adopting an adult GSD dog is less desirable, but these pups need loving, forever homes, too. Size German Shepherds are a large dog breed, growing up to 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall. If a breeder advertises Miniature German Shepherds, they may cost more, but there is no such thing. That pooch is most likely a mixed breed, or the purebred has dwarfism. Since purebreds are more desirable, they cost more. However, hybrids are often healthier than purebreds. Lineage and bloodlines If your puppy comes from a champion bloodline and is a show-quality German Shepherd dog, then you can expect to pay more. Breeder certifications, registration, and pedigree When it comes to looking for a reputable breeder, be sure to do your research. A responsible breeder will care about finding the puppies a loving, forever home rather than making a profit. A qualified breeder will charge their puppies higher but at a reasonable fee. Gender Believe it or not, male and female German Shepherd dogs cost about the same price. Male GSDs are stronger and have more energy. Coat Colors and Markings German Shepherds with different colored coats and markings will be more pricey. This is because they are more difficult to breed since they rely on recessive genes. Did you know this doggo can also be long-haired? You can learn more about long-haired German Shepherds here. Health screenings and medical expenses Most reputable breeders will get the puppies health screened and take care of certain medical expenses, such as their first vaccinations. If they do, then you can expect to pay more. For instance, if the breed is in high demand where the breeder is, you can expect to pay more. Other factors The litter size is another factor. For instance, if there are more puppies in a litter, the cost will decrease because the breeder has more puppies available for adoption. In addition, if the parents have a proven record of being show dogs or breeding dogs, that will increase the puppy prices. A friendly German Shepherd dog with a veterinarian Health care and veterinary bills: how much are vet expenses for GSDs? Fortunately, German Shepherds are generally healthy. This includes general physical exams, vaccinations such as rabies , and heartworm and flea prevention. GSDs also need additional vaccinations. For example, Leptospirosis if they are exposed to wildlife. Medical Expenses for German Shepherds Range. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European breeders that focus on excellent temperaments for pet, show, Schutzhund, protection, police work, PTSD and many other varieties. Billy is very passionate animal lover. Billy's love for the Shepherd breed came at a very young age where he learned to raise and training German Shepherds from several experience Schutzund trainers. Billy fell in love with how loyal and willing these dogs wanted to please you. We started importing German shepherds from Europe from some great breeders that want to work with us getting the best dogs. Give us a call if you would like a puppy imported from Europe. When you are looking for a quality German Shepherd breeder who will care as much as you do for your precious pets these two are educated and experienced individuals who give their time to raising outstanding German Shepherd puppies. Billy spends a great deal of time helping in the development of each puppy and maintains the kennel with very healthy dogs. Our Kennels are very dog-friendly and include several large. Rottweiler puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN from trusted …. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Originally bred as mini-bulldogs in England, then brought to France, they have compact bodies, upright ears, and are the perfect partner for spending time at home. Why buy a kitten for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of kittens in Clarksville, Tennessee who need a home. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Clarksville, TN. Poodle puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN from trusted. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. Originally raised in Germany to help with hunting, the iconic Dachshund has short little legs and a long body, along with a strong personality. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Clumber Spaniel puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN from trusted. Find your puppy for sale in Clarksville, TN Puppies. Tzus for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Pets for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Black and Yellow Labrador Retriever Puppies. This litter was born on September. He weighs about 6 lbs and is about 3 years old. Adopt yours from Premier Pups in the Clarksville, Tennessee area. Dog and Cat adoption in Clarksville, Tennessee. Tall and muscular, they like activity, and with good training, they're loving and silly pals. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data. Puppies will come with both contracts. Looking to trade for a French bulldog. The typical price for Poodle puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy. Dogs for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Considering Roman for adoption? Montgomery County Animal Care and Control. Photos: Dog rescued from storm drain in Clarksville. My puppies are kept in a clean and safe. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale near Clarksville, Tennessee, …. Red Heeler Puppies For Sale. Clarksville, TN .Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale near Clarksville, Tennessee. Box , Clarksville, TN .Find Rottweiler puppies for sale Near Clarksville, TN Rottweilers sometimes get an unfair rap as aggressive, but they're really just a loyal breed with protective instincts. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other classifieds in your neighborhood. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale. Chihuahuas for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location. Dog rescued from storm drain in Clarksville. Pet Classifieds Clarksville. Humane Society of Clarksville. French Bulldog puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN from trusted. Dogs in Clarksville Tennessee. He has a sweet personality and is going to make a wonderful companion for his new family. WSMV - Clarksville firefighters were hard at work this weekend rescuing a dog trapped in a. What began as a normal walk around a Chicago. Looking for perfect forever home. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. She is good around kids and other pets. Clarksville, TN. It was love at first sight for both of us. I can meet you halfway if you have a reasonable distance Im on the Tennessee Kentucky line near Clarksville Tennessee. Your puppy will come with a year health guarantee, and, if you are located out of state, we will deliver your new fur baby to your door through one of our nationwide delivery options. For an extra fee a Flight Nanny can be provided t more. Meet Bandit Hello! My name is Bandit. Check out the latest savings that we have to offer View your local flyer Services at Clarksville PetSmart. I can't wait to meet my new family today. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Clarksville, TN Kaci is almost 6 years old. Dog Breeder in Clarksville. For an extra fee a Flight Nanny can be provided t… more. Find Basset Hound puppies for sale Near Clarksville, TN Bassets can be independent and stubborn at times, but this pleasant and easygoing breed is generally peaceful and very friendly with all people and animals. He is an adorable fluff ball looking for his forever home. This AKC registered frenchy has the shiny blue color and blue eyes. She is ready to go to a new home. Rottweilers for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Don't breed or buy opt to adopt! Our success depends solely on the strength of our resources. Adoption saves lives! Find great deals and sell your items for free. WKRN — Five years ago this month, a Nashville woman was with family in Chicago when she was viciously attacked by two stray dogs. Nashville, TN women reunites with good Samaritan who saved …. Find Poodle puppies for sale. This property is not currently available for sale. Dog Houses for sale in Clarksville, No one can do everything, but everyone can do something! Rottweiler puppies for sale in Clarksville, TN from trusted. She is a sweet Golden Retriever. Versatile and impressive, the Poodle excels on the show floor, in parks, and in the home. German Shepherd Puppies Tennessee German Shepherd Puppies TennesseeThe 10 German Shepherd breeders listed above have shown good breeding programs and a deep love for the German Shepherd breed, as a result, they deserve to be on the list. We are also close to the military base near Clarksville, Tennessee. German Shepherd mix Excellent. Meet the pack of currently adoptable dogs, and learn more about our application process below. It is a medium to large-sized dog very well known for its strength, trainability, and intelligence. Search for german shepherd dog rescue dogs for adoption near Knoxville, Tennessee. Some factors that affect price include the breeder's location, reputation, and lines of descent. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European breeders that focus on excellent temperaments for pet, show, Schutzhund, protection, police work, PTSD and many other varieties. With the right approach, your German Shepherd for sale in Tennessee will soon learn basic obedience, as well as more complex commands and tricks. We specialize in breeding quality German Shepherds and raising German Shepherd puppies with working backgrounds -- excellent for family pets, personal protection, and working situations. We promote obedience,agility, and lots of love as a family member. German Shepherd Breeder Nashville. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds for sale in Tennessee make loving and loyal family members. Socialized with adults and children. Von Warfenburg German Shepherds. German Shepherd Breeder in Tennessee. Situated in the rolling hills of Nashville, Tennessee, Hillview Kennels German Shepherd Breeders provides the ultimate location for breeding the highest quality German. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Jackson, TN German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. My only discouragement was not having made this commitment sooner! Tennessee .This health exam provided by PawFax has 20 criteria and must be signed off by a certified and licensed veterinarian. All of our dogs are AKC registered as well. Up to date on shots and deworming. Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. Every German Shepherd puppy that they newly produce is raised in Joelton, Tennessee, which is located next to Nashville, Tennessee. Mengerhaus Kennels The breeders are a family that works as a team to raise the most competent and dependable breeds of German Shepherds. German Shepherd Breeders Nashville Tennessee. AKC German Shepherds of. We advocate advance health and well-being for all canines, and work to promote responsible dog ownership. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European. We often use imported lines Schutzhund. The state of Tennessee is blessed with a lot of top German Shepherd breeders with a decent reputation and great puppies. The best multi-purpose German Shepherds and Shepinois in southeast Tennessee are available from Camelot German Shepherds, from intelligent, obedient home guards to therapy dogs and elite competitive working dogs! The crosses shepinois are normally only bred in two litters per year. There are 4 female and one male left. At 16 weeks old, he already weighs in at a whopping 45 lbs! He's going to be a hefty dude! Amazing Family Dogs! Breeding for Excellence! Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Tennessee German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. They have handled German Shepherds for their lives and are not about to stop soon. Our dogs are all fed a combination of top quality grain-free kibble, home cooked food, high quality moist food, and fresh bones. We specialize in top quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale as well as Belgian Malinois cross puppies for sale. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from. We hope you find resources supporting your everyday life as a dog owner and your pups' well-being. They will be approx when full grown. Tennessee German Shepherd Classifieds Hoobly. Presley German Shepherds. Adoptable Dogs. There, they are exposed to deep family love as they are interacted with and handled by people of varying age groups. Christians Guardian Shepherds. German Shepherd mix Excellent homestead guardian. Puppies are raised following many of the methods of Puppy Culture. We have puppies for sale all over Tennessee and the surrounding areas within our Preferable Pups family of breeders. German Shepherd Breeders in Chattanooga Tennessee. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. All of our dogs are part of the family. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Welcome to the Dog Owners' Blog! Our specialist team regularly shares articles, reviews, and guides that will be useful for all dog owners. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from the best breeders. These puppies ar… more 1 week ago on PuppyFinder. Click to browse available German Shepherd puppies from 5 Star Breeders. For more information on some of our pups that will soon be available check out our Upcoming Litters page as well as our young adults page, or available adults page for other prospects. Rosehall German Shepherds. Below are our currently available German Shepherd puppies. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted breeders. Middle Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue is a c 3 charitable organization dedicated to the mission of providing medical care, temperament evaluation, Males stand about inches at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Coldwater German Shepherds Janette Oglesby jmogsd coldwater-german-shepherds. After you have been approved for a German Shepherd puppy in Tennessee and you have selected the perfect puppy, the puppy will undergo an industry-leading health examination. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. He's going to be a hefty dude! German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. Been checked by a veterinarian and had two of her puppy shots a more. The intelligence and protective nature of the makes it a good choice for families with children, and they make ideal family watchdogs. Camelot German Shepherds. The parents and puppies are provided the best care including a premium diet and plenty of exercise. Our German Shepherd kennel is located near Nashville, Tennessee. The cost of a GSD will depend on many factors. Do you have German Shepherd puppies for sale near me in Tennessee? Preferable Pups is always adding new fully screened and healthy German Shepherd puppies. Health, hips, and elbows guaranteed. High drive and family friendly. Litter of 8: 6 girls and 2 males. Cost of a German Shepherd Puppy in TN From some basic research on the web it seems that the average price of a good quality German Shepherd puppy in the state of Arizona. Full blooded German shepherd puppies. We are also a Belgian Malinois cross Breeder. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted. Our goal is to be able to offer your family the opportunity to welcome into your home your new best friend and family protector. Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue. Most litters we have are sable or bicolor puppies, but from time to time we also offer all black as well as black and tan puppies. Up to date on shots and dewormed. We are so eager to see the new puppies and start our training adventure. We take pride in all of our puppies. Von Anna German Shepherds. It's a great breed for active households. Welcome to Christians Guardian Shepherds! Christian's Guardian Shepherds is a family owned and operated German Shepherd breeder located in beautiful Spring City. We only have a couple of litters a year and strive to make sure these will be the best match possible.

Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Bring some treats, a toy that your German Shepherd loves and a long leash if you have one. Start by rewarding it for sitting or laying down on your command. Wait for a fraction of a second and then reward it for keeping its attention on you. Continue until you can get it to keep its attention on you for at least 5 seconds. Now repeat the process each time going back a little bit further and increasing the duration that you wait before going back to reward it. Start by telling it to stay, squeaking or waving the toy and then rewarding it for not going for the toy. Now do it again but put the toy in front of it and reward it for not going for the toy. Then add distance. Start by staying close to your German Shepherd and then go away further. You can watch the video below to see, clearly, how it is done. Why teach your German Shepherd to stay Teaching your German Shepherd to stay when you tell it to will help you in a number of ways. Below I will mention some of the benefits that it can provide. This will make things much easier for you and your dog will likely make a much better impression on them. This will help the experience to go much more smoothly and will help it to be a less stressful experience for you and the dog. For example, you can get it to stay before giving it food in the mornings. This can help to reduce bad behavior. This will help you to maintain a good relationship with your German Shepherd and it will help you to keep it safe. The method being used here is positive reinforcement training and it works best by rewarding small steps towards the final goal. Start in an easier environment When you first start training your German Shepherd to stay it would be a lot easier to start out in an environment where there are not many distractions. After you can get it to stay in an environment where there are not many distractions then you can start to train it again in tougher environments. An easy way to regularly teach your German Shepherd to stay would be to make it stay before letting it eat food, but be sure to supplement it with some training in different scenarios. Related content How to teach a German Shepherd to come? To teach your German Shepherd to come it will be necessary to have taught it to stay first. How to teach your German Shepherd Down? If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link.

Our dogs are smart, calm, intuitive, and beautiful. We only breed one litter at a time. Together we discover that there is nothing more rewarding than making people happy with healthy, social and gorgeous puppies. They have soft coats and wonderful temperaments. We breed carefully with low inbreeding and provide you with a pedigree. Our breeding dogs pass many tests to qualify for our breeding program. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, and DNA tests for common diseases in the breed. We take special care of all our dogs and puppies. We love our Australian Labradoodle puppies from start to finish! We do not breed with anxious, aggressive, nervous dogs, but we select our breeding dogs with good temperaments. They have a gentle, calm, happy character with just enough spirit to be playful and fun. We raise our breeding dogs in our own home or in foster families called guardian homes. All dogs deserve to live with a family. We are not a kennel operation. Because the puppies grow up in our home, they are socialized and love people and other dogs. They are introduced to people, children, and other dogs at a very early age. Training with commands such as come and sit start at 5 weeks of age. We introduce them to their crates at the same time. Our labradoodles keep us laughing with their clownlike antics. We have a lot of experience and knowledge raising and training dogs and we promise a lifetime of support. We distinguish ourselves by having the healthiest, friendliest dogs with wonderful temperaments. They are mostly hypoallergenic dogs. They are very intelligent and easy to train, so Australian Labradoodles are used for emotional support and service. Our whelping boxes and pens are cleaned and sanitized every day. The puppies start pottying on grass outside at about 5 weeks old. They are introduced to crates at 5 weeks old but will not be fully crate trained. We want them to love their crates. We send one home with you. Reserve early as most puppies are sold before they are born! Responsible Breeding Early Socialization and Positive Training Starts at Birth Responsible Breeding Inbreeding analysis before breeding any dogs to be sure there are no close relatives for generations. Pedigrees, and health tests posted. Our breeding dogs do not shed. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, DNA tests for Common diseases in the breed. We socialize with many people and other dogs. We introduce crate training at 5 weeks in a manner that they will love their crates. Love and handling starts at birth. Most puppies come and sit before they go home. Olympic Peninsula:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Check out our Puppies page for more info. Hello and welcome to Bearcreek!! We are a small, in-home breeder of Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles. As a boutique breeder near Seattle, Washington, and Woodinville, Washington, we produce just a handful of puppies each year. This gives us valuable time to introduce each puppy with age appropriate socialization experiences with lots of love and attention, giving the puppies the best start in life. Our program focuses on producing healthy, sweet-tempered, genetically sound mini and medium Australian Labradoodle pups. All our dogs have non-shedding, allergy and asthma-friendly fleece coats. By the time your puppy arrives in your home it will have started on potty training and crate training. Known primarily for their sweet disposition, these dogs are increasingly sought-after for therapy and service work and make excellent family companions. We are proud to be a Gold Star member of the Australian Labradoodle Association of America and abide by the organization's standards for excellence. Home: Welcome. Family Raised. Fluffy faces and shedless coats It all begins with the gorgeous and innocent fluffy faces of the Multigen Australian Labradoodle. Labradoodles have the dreamiest eyes, the most adorable paws, and the sweetest personalities. They learn and adapt faster than you can imagine and are incredibly loyal, as every life partner should be. For extra doodle points, Labradoodles are also allergy-friendly with their hypoallergenic and non to very low shedding coats. Family love and socialization Constant attention, affection, and socialization keep the pups happy. We raise the puppies in our home in the middle of our living space. They're never more than a few steps away. We introduce the doodles to a variety of people and intentionally try to expose them to as many different traits as possible. They smell us making dinner; they hear it when the wind slams a door shut; they sense it when someone in the house has a rough day. Overall, they experience all that goes on in a busy family home. These diverse experiences, coupled with love and lots of snuggles from family and friends, are the keys to a relaxed puppy and a well-socialized and calm adult Labradoodle with a compelling and flexible personality. All of the puppy culture experiences are important, but the family-raised element truly sets you up for success as a doodle parent. Health testing to the highest standard We want your doodle puppy to grow up happy and healthy and become a treasured family member for many years to come. You can rest easy knowing that your Labradoodle puppy has the healthiest parents possible. Your puppy will go home with you with a clean health report from our local veterinarian and all their puppy vaccinations through eight weeks of age. Lastly, while genetic health issues are rare, we include a two-year genetic health guarantee with all of our pups. Forever family connection and support One of the many reasons I decided to pivot from doodle parent to doodle breeder is that I love seeing these pups become cherished family members when matched with their forever families. Some folks adopt their Labradoodle and never need additional contact, and that's perfectly okay. Others are comforted knowing I am delighted to join and support them on this journey. I'm just a call or text away if you ever have questions. Plus, you'll quickly become an expert dog photographer if you're not one already. If you feel up to sharing, my family and I love seeing how your doodle happily ever after turned out.

What is a Miniature German Shepherd? Purebred or crossbreed? The other side claims it is a mixed breed. The truth is that the Miniature German Shepherd is indeed a crossbreed. Small-sized standard German Shepherds do not exist unless the dog happens to have dwarfism. To get a Miniature German Shepherd, the standard is bred with another purebred, most commonly the Collie or Poodle. Instead, take a look at the parents to get an idea of how a puppy could possibly turn out as an adult. The Intelligent Border Collie This breed is world-renowned for its smarts. A lovable family doggo with talents for competition and herding, it contributes desirable personality traits to make a German Shepherd Collie mix. It can weigh up to 44 lbs 20 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 17 years. Some health concerns to be aware of with this breed include bloating and an eye anomaly that causes partial or complete blindness. This dog makes an elegant and friendly family dog that is a fast learner. The Poodle excels as a competition dog and is also widely used for therapy. The Poodle can weigh up to 70 lbs 31 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. There are health concerns associated with this breed, such as epilepsy, canine hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Loyal German Shepherd The German Shepherd is sharp as a tack and completely dedicated and in love with its family. Ranking as the 3rd most intelligent, you get a well-rounded dog that is not only stunningly beautiful with its thick coat, confident stance, and communicative features, but an excellent guard dog that will protect at any cost. It can weigh up to 88 lbs 40 kg with a height of 25 in 65 cm and has a lifespan of up to 13 years. For further insight into German Shepherd growth, take a look at this guide and chart. With the Shepherd breed, hip dysplasia is a common health issue that is seen in the Miniature variety as well. Shepherds are also known to suffer from a neural disease called degenerative myelopathy and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which is a digestive disorder. This is a rare inherited genetic disorder that results from breeding two purebred German Shepherds. A German Shepherd with dwarfism, though significantly smaller weighing up to 30 lbs , will exhibit the token characteristics and mannerisms the breed is known for. It will also look like a typical Shepherd, except with shortened limbs. This is one way to procure a smaller than normal Shepherd, but there will be extra health issues to deal with, such as allergies and thyroid issues. It is common for these dogs to bald as they age as well. Here is a cute video that gives a glimpse into what life is like for a German Shepherd with dwarfism. The Mini German Shepherd is undoubtedly smaller than the standard one, weighing up to 50 lbs 22 kg. Any combination of these colors can be inherited by the Mini. This Dog is a Devoted Protector maria. They make excellent guard dogs but are good-natured. If you have kids, the Mini will take full responsibility for their safety, with a healthy dose of playtime and cuddling thrown in. Hardworking and intelligent, they make phenomenal search, rescue and therapy dogs. Training is a breeze, as this breed is a fast learner remember, all of three possible parents rank TOP-3 in the smartest dog breeds list? The earlier you introduce behavior commands and socialization methods such as walks in the park where other dogs can be encountered safely, the sooner you will see the intelligence blossom. Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited disease from the German Shepherd parent. This painful condition occurs when an abnormality in the hip socket causes the dog to become crippled or experience agonizing arthritis. To keep your small German Shepherd in good health, plenty of exercises is key. This breed is also prone to canine hypothyroidism, which can cause obesity. No one can guarantee how a mix will turn out. The breeder should be able to present health clearances for hip dysplasia and other common diseases. Check out these Miniature German Shepherd breeders for available litters. For example, white miniature German shepherds is a mixed breed with Maltese dogs. Since this breed is known for being short-tempered with kids, this may make them too scary for kids, a possibility no family wants. This may also make training harder, unlike standard GSDs that can easily be trained. For example, most miniature GSDs carry the intelligence and loyalty of German shepherds. This leads to plenty of differences between the personality of a miniature German shepherd and the standard GSD. Another good news is that those that belong to the purebred or the dwarfism category typically acts like how a standard German shepherd should. But a mixed breed like the white miniature German shepherd is not only a dog that looks like a German shepherd but smaller. They also have a different purpose, depending on the other breed. They are great for those who own their own farm. Despite a less aggressive behavior, they still qualify as guard dogs. German shepherds have great potential as a search and rescue dogs. Even more so with the mini German shepherd since their size allows them to easily navigate through most terrains. See also 17 Things To Know About German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix Take note, however, that miniature German shepherds, like any other dog, need to have a balanced work and play for a comfortable life. While the German shepherd traits work well with the working line, the traits from the miniature breed may work the opposite way for family dogs. Due to their small size, they can easily be carried from place to place. This makes them great for kids. However, as previously said, when mixed with incompatible breeds, they can exhibit undesirable behaviors. Some examples of such breeds are chow chows and chihuahua , which are the worst dog breeds for small children due to their snappiness. On the other hand, being bred with a collie, poodles, and other friendly breeds may make small German shepherd breeds better family dogs. This means the dog might inherit different traits that you might not know of. Information such as the DNA line and health data are crucial things that you should know so you can take care of the miniature GSD properly. Breeders that cannot answer questions about the parents or provide any documents to back their statements are likely to be the type that only goes after the money. There are also dogs that look like a German shepherd but smaller with a parent from another breed. Some can have different personalities, appearance, health issues, and so on. At the end of the day, you learned many valuable things in this blog post. Many questions have been answered about miniature German shepherds. The truth was revealed. 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. The result is a Mini German Shepherd that is a versatile and playful, smaller breed that would make a good family pet or a mini guard dog. Designer dogs come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the parent mix, but this hybrid is likely to inherit much of the classic German Shepherd look, its working dog ethic, and intelligence. This petite mixed breed dog is energetic and family-friendly and will prove itself to be both affectionate and protective. A Mini German Shepherd puppy makes an adorable family pet for any dog lover. It is possible to find a very small purebred German Shepherd dog but that would only occur due to dwarfism in the breed. Fact: Pituitary dwarfism is a condition caused as a result of a rare genetic mutation in this purebred dog. Dwarfism in German Shepherd dogs is rare, and if it occurs the puppy may unkindly be referred to as the runt of the litter. A Miniature German Shepherd is the result of cross-breeding. It is a cross between two different dog breeds — a purebred German Shepherd dog and another smaller purebred such as a Collie, Border Collie, Poodle, or occasionally a Golden retriever, or even a tiny Yorkshire Terrier or a Corgi mix! This highly desirable and much loved purebred dog has a strong and impressive bloodline dating back to , in Germany. The German Shepherd was originally bred to be a skilled, powerful and obedient herding dog that was also used as a fearsome guard dog. History of the other possible parent s — crossed to produce this mixed breed dog The Collie When cross-bred with a Collie, it adds another herding and highly disciplined purebred dog into the mix. A Collie is also an intelligent dog and it too is easily trainable with a strong work ethic. Their mini GSG puppies would be a Black and Tan color, sometimes with white bits on their coat, and shed a lot! The Poodle A Poodle is a small dog that is increasing in popularity as the ideal partner for any designer dog combination. They have an easy-going and relaxed approach. They are good-natured and love nothing more than to curl up with their family member and go to sleep. The Golden Retriever and The Yorkshire Terrier are also very popular and much loved family dogs that are smart, family-friendly and easily trainable. Whatever the mix of breed of the Miniature GSD it is going to be a loveable and much desired family dog. However, the majority of the individual breeds used to create this mixed breed dog are. Considering the other parent breeds, mainly Collie and Poodle dog breeds, there are a range of possible coat colors for this dog breed, including Black and Tan, White or even fawn. What are the main characteristics of a Miniature German Shepherd? Like any other crossbred dog, Miniature German Shepherds can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both. It is sometimes thought that crossbred dogs are more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; however, a puppy mixed dog can inherit all, some, or none of the health problems its parent breeds have. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. The Miniature German Shepherd puppy tends to have more of the classic appearance of the standard German Shepherd parent, but it is a smaller breed of dog. The characteristics of Miniature GSDs are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the parents, the environment and the quality, type and amount of training and socialization. Loyalty and companionship Any mix of German Shepherd is likely to be extremely loyal and have a very loving temperament when trained and socialized properly. They will make a very caring and protective companion, for any dog lover. They can be very loving and affectionate dogs and enjoy company, and the more active their lifestyle the better. Reputation: The German Shepherd is a confident breed that looks fiercer than its actual behavior. The Miniature German Shepherd is a very cute mix and because of its smaller size it could be forgotten that this breed has a reputation for being a fierce guard dog and possibly one of the listed dangerous dogs when not trained and socialized properly. When handled correctly and properly trained the mini GSD can be an affectionate and reliable dog for a family or individual dog lover, who wants a companion. And a mini mix that tends to have the GSD look will be highly popular and desirable too. Although smaller it will still be an agile and alert dog that will need lots of mental and physical activity. The trainability of this intelligent shepherd breed dog should be fairly easy. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well with this dog but not harsh control, any form of negative punishment or physical restraint as it may rebel. The mini GSD puppy is very energetic and easily bored, so to prevent mischief it will need at least one hour a day minimum exercise, building up hours a day in adulthood. That means they are clever, alert and used to working hard when trained. This dog is fairly easy to train and will love to have challenges and a working purpose. They will be strong, resilient and love a challenge with both mental and physical stimulation involved, otherwise, they may misbehave. Socialization: Early socialization and learning discipline are strongly recommended for any German Shepherd crossbred dog. Any type of hybrid dog with two intelligent parents will be strong-willed and want to be kept active and useful. They will not want a sedentary lifestyle and will enjoy as much exercise and action as the owner can provide. When trained and socialized this mixed breed dog will be approachable and friendly around children and other animals. Purpose: This breed will be loyal and true to their owner and protect them to the end. If the other parent is a collie then both were bred as fearless working dogs for herding and protection. This means they will want to work for their master and keep busy. Even is the other parent is a poodle or a smaller dog, they will still be clever and want to serve and obey their owner well. Behaviour: This breed can be strong-willed and needs to be trained early as it can easily and will become destructive, or bark if under-stimulated. Physical Characteristics of the Miniature German Shepherd Apart from being athletic, attractive and family and stranger friendly, the miniature German Shepherd will be loyal and protective, playful and guard its family and home with precision. Temperament: Intelligent, agile, noble, proud, alert, energetic, athletic There is a certain amount of controversy surrounding the breed, as the name is somewhat of a misnomer. Many backyard breeders attempt to sell the breed as a truly miniature version of a standard German Shepherd, but the truth is that the dog is a mixed breed. This means that the Mini German Shepherd may share many similar traits with a German Shepherd but may inherit other traits from their parent breeds too. If you are looking for a carbon copy of the German Shepherd in a smaller package, these, unfortunately, do not exist. That being said, the Miniature German Shepherd is a wonderful hybrid breed nonetheless, and if this dog sounds like it may be the one for you, read on for an in-depth look at this unique breed. 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. Miniature German Shepherd Puppies A post shared by Ailbhe Donohue ailbhedonohue Miniature German Shepherds can vary fairly widely in appearance and size, depending on what breed the German Shepherd was bred with. While they do often resemble a smaller German Shepherd, remember that due to their mixed genetics, they will not have the same temperament and characteristics as a standard German Shepherd. They are typically hybrids of a German Shepherd and a Border Collie or Poodle, so the resulting crossbreed is usually just as smart as their parents. The same goes for energy and exercise needs; with those parents, these dogs are high energy! These dogs need more exercise than even a purebred German Shepherd, and as any Miniature German Shepherd owner will tell you, it takes a great deal to tire these pooches out. This makes them excellent guard dogs, and they will do anything to protect their owners, just like a standard German Shepherd. One plus of having this smaller version of the German Shepherd is that they are highly adaptable and can live in small homes and apartments happily, provided that they get sufficient exercise. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They have a strong instinct to protect their owners, so they make excellent guard dogs. Like their parent breeds, they thrive off of human companionship and adore being around their owners. This can be a problem if you are out frequently, as they are prone to suffering from separation anxiety. If you are away from home for large chunks of time, this is probably not the breed for you. German Shepherds have a strong prey drive, and Miniature German Shepherds are much the same. This means that early socialization is essential for this breed — the earlier, the better — to prevent them from going after the family cat! Around 2 or 3 cups of high-quality kibble are ideal and should be split into two meals a day to prevent bloating. Be sure to check that the first listed ingredient on the food is an animal-sourced protein and that the food is free from too many filler ingredients, such as wheat, corn, and soy. While these dogs are not prone to getting overweight, too many of these ingredients can cause weight gain and digestive issues too. This will add welcome variety and give them a boost of high-quality protein and amino acids. We recommend at least 1 hour or 2 a day, but the more, the better. This could be a run, jog, or bike ride or an intensive interactive game, like fetch or frisbee. These intelligent pooches will love agility exercises and games, and this will give them plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Remember that these dogs have lineages that were bred for a specific purpose, and the closer you can get to giving them directed exercises, the better. They are highly intelligent, so mental and physical stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and undesirable behavior. Just like other working breeds, these dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This method requires consistency and dedication, but the result is well worth it. Try to begin training your dog from the day that you bring them home, as this will help set the training and prevent them from picking up any bad habits, which are harder to fix. The key to training these dogs well is consistency and repetition, but try to make training a fun experience and avoid too many of the same exercises. German Shepherds can be stubborn and aloof at times, and the same trait may be passed down to your dog. Early socialization with people and other dogs is crucial for avoiding this and will make training them easier. Bathing them with human shampoos or too often can strip their coat of its natural oils and cause further shedding and even allergies down the line. However, there are no guarantees, and there are a few issues that may be passed down from their parent breeds, including hip and elbow dysplasia, hemophilia, and epilepsy. Gastric dilatation-volvulus is fairly common in dogs with deep chests, so be sure to feed your dog two to three small meals throughout the day and avoid feeding them after exercise. Degenerative myelopathy is fairly common in senior German Shepherds and may be seen in German Shepherd hybrids too. Minor Conditions. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article. Standard German Shepherd Dogs In the late 19th century, various strains of German dogs were combined to create the ultimate herding dog. Today the breed is better known for their military, police, protection and service dog work. A well-socialized German Shepherd Dog makes a wonderfully loyal family pet. This is a well muscled dog with a deep chest and strong hindquarters, and he is longer than he is tall. Their double coat of medium length comes in a variety of colors. They have a long muzzle, confident head carriage, and pointed ears. Therefore that makes them more appealing to many people. The oversized round head and big eyes associated with little dogs engenders a feeling of caretaking behavior in people. This phenomenon is known as baby schema. Are Miniature German Shepherds Real? Miniaturization in dog breeding is achieved in one of three ways. A standard German Shepherd can be crossed with a smaller dog breed. They can possess the gene for dwarfism. The final way to miniaturize is to breed two exceptionally small purebred German Shepherds together. Miniature German Shepherd Mix Breeding a female German Shepherd with the male of a smaller breed produces a mixed breed dog. This is the most humane way to miniaturize. They could be smaller but not look or behave anything like a German Shepherd. The upside to crossbreeding is that it can reduce the incidence of passing along genetic health problems. Here are some breeds that breeders commonly mix with the German Shepherd. They measure just 10 to 12 inches and weigh from 25 to 30 pounds. Despite the size difference, these are both herding breeds who are smart and trainable. You can expect this mix to stand from 12 to 15 inches and weigh anywhere from 25 to 65 pounds. The Corman Shepherd will be an athletic dog who needs plenty of activity. This is a highly intelligent, loyal, and loving mix. In appearance, these two breeds are very dissimilar, so looks can vary depending on which parent the puppies take after. The standard Poodle is over 15 inches and weighs from 40 to 70 pounds. You can expect the Shepadoodle to range from 15 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. This is sure to be a whip smart and extremely energetic dog. He will need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. The Shollie will be highly trainable. But a tendency to be protective might not make them the best choice for homes with small children. The Border Collie stands from 18 to 22 inches and weighs from 30 to 55 pounds. Physical characteristics of this condition include short bowed legs, longer body and issues with coat development. This would truly be a miniature German Shepherd in terms of temperament and behavior. However, pituitary dwarfism can have some pretty serious health effects. To a breeder, it means puppies whose weight at birth is abnormally low. To clarify, defined this way, you could have an entire litter of runts. Unfortunately, puppies who are born extremely underweight are likely to face many health problems throughout their lives. And the more underweight they are, the more they are at risk. Some breeders choose this method because the other characteristics of the breed will get passed down to the puppies. However, when two dogs who are way below the standard size are bred together, it increases the chance of passing along health problems as well. The standard female German Shepherd is somewhat smaller, standing from 22 to 24 inches and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds. To be a mini German Shepherd you need to be less than 22 inches tall and fewer than 50 lbs. But Miniature German Shepherds can be considerably smaller than this, depending upon how they are bred. Miniature German Shepherd size will depend on a number of factors. So crossing with a Collie would make a larger dog than one mixed with a Yorkie. A miniature German Shepherd full grown with the gene for dwarfism would have very short legs and weigh approximately 30 pounds. Breeding two very underweight purebred GSDs could potentially make an even smaller dog, but at what cost? Besides being hard-working herding and guard dogs , miniatures also have a bit of a soft side. They are not as aloof as full-sized purebreds, but may appear standoffish when around people or dogs they do not know. They are very protective of their owners and will be loyal to them. Those mixed with Golden Retrievers or Poodles have calmer temperaments than those mixed with Border Collies. Poodle or Golden mixes are ideal for families with children. Border Collie mixes will be higher strung and do not thrive in households with kids. This mix does not bark much. Regardless of temperament, all mini German Shepherds need daily mental and physical stimulation. Mental stimulation can come in the form of puzzle toys, feeders, sniffing outside, or training sessions. Physical stimulation can be jogging, walking, running, herding, or agility exercises. This mix requires a bare minimum of 60 minutes of daily activity. There is no guarantee what miniatures will look and act like. Most puppies retain the characteristic appearance and personality of the German Shepherd, but there will be some variation depending on the cross. A mini German Shepherd lives longer than a German Shepherd, on average. Miniatures can live up to 15 years, while purebreds live between 12 to 14 years. This is due to the fact that smaller dogs age slower than larger dogs. Also, being a mixed breed dog helps most minis have a longer lifespan, this is known as hybrid vigor. There is still a chance miniature German Shepherds will inherit health conditions from their parents. They are prone to hemophilia, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, gastric dilatation-volvulus, epilepsy, and pituitary dwarfism: Hemophilia is a genetic condition where a dog has impaired blood clotting. Elbow dysplasia occurs when the bones forming the elbow joint are improperly aligned or have uneven growth patterns. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint socket does not nicely enclose the head of the femur, creating looseness. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive breakdown of the spinal cord. This results in hind limb weakness and paralysis. Gastric dilatation-volvulus is a condition in which the stomach bloats and rotates on itself. It requires surgery to fix due and can be life-threatening. Puppies can be affected by dwarfism and growth hindrance. Dwarfism is an autosomal recessive disorder. Affected puppies will have legs that are abnormally short, bodies that are abnormally long, and hair coats that may have patches of baldness. There is some controversy surrounding miniature and teacup dog breeds. Some people mistakenly assume that a mini breed is simply a smaller version of its purebred parent. This is not true! The miniature German Shepherd is not a purebred dog breed; it is a hybrid mix. These smaller puppies can keep some recognizable traits of a German Shepherd, but they are not purebred. Some breeders try to sell their miniature puppies as purebred dogs. They do not exist unless you are considering dwarf, however these dogs come with many health problems. Most miniature German Shepherds are created via crossbreeding. There are two other ways that breeders may have litters of minis: Pituitary Dwarfism Breeding Runts Breeding two German Shepherds that are both carriers of the Pituitary Dwarfism gene is not ethical. Dwarves can be affected by many health conditions such as hypothyroidism, poor kidney function, and skeletal defects. Dwarves are not the same as miniatures. Some breeders selectively breed German Shepherd puppies that are runts. This can also produce smaller puppies after several generations. Similar to dwarfism, the practice of intentionally breeding runts can create puppies predisposed to health conditions. These puppies will have lower than normal birth weight and may fall behind on the growth curve. Make sure to avoid breeders that breed runts or dogs with pituitary dwarfism. Miniature vs. Standard Differences Miniature German Shepherds can be half the size of standards! This means they do not grow taller than 20 inches and weigh no more than 50 pounds. Due to their smaller size, minis have a slightly longer lifespan of 15 years. At first glance, mini German Shepherds look just like purebreds. They will likely keep the alert, athletic and muscular appearance of their purebred parent, but it will be on a smaller body. This means they are mainly tan and have a saddle-shaped black pattern on their backs. Other coat colors include: white, black, sable, black and silver, or black and red. They generally increase the price of miniature German Shepherds.

They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. That is the answer to the question: what do Labrador Retrievers eat? Labrador Retrievers are noted for their readiness to eat anything they can find, whether or not it is food. The owner must guard against this, for the inquisitive Labrador Retriever can eat things that are not good for it, or even toxic. Real Food Labrador Retrievers do very well on real food such as you eat. Here are some categories you will want to include. Real meat, such as beef, chicken, and turkey. Fresh, raw fruits such as apples, bananas, and cranberries. Fresh, raw vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach. Certain dairy foods are good, too, for Labrador Retrievers: cottage cheese, eggs, and yogurt. Labrador Retrievers need some grain, but not corn. Make it brown rice or oatmeal. You can do your own cooking for a Labrador Retriever, if you wish. Actually, there is not a lot of cooking to be done. Some people prefer to cook the meat as this kills any bacteria that are present. We are impressed with what it offers an energetic Labrador Retriever. Embark dog food offers what you need for a healthy, safe Labrador Retriever. Do Not Feed the Labrador Retriever As the signs in zoos prohibit feeding animals because they might get something that is not good for them, so you should have a mental sign that reminds you what not to feed your Labrador Retriever. What do Labrador Retrievers eat? As we said, they will eat everything. You must be the guardian of the food dish. Many commercial dog foods are actually harmful to your dog. It is said that the well-known commercial dog foods you see in your supermarket are composed of rejects. Cereal companies wanted to profit from rejected grain. If the USDA inspection said their corn, rice, and wheat could not be used for humans, they decided, they would make and market dog food. The grain failed inspection because it was moldy, rancid, or contained contaminants. The meat packers had similar problems with meat that failed inspection. When the two got together, they produced commercial dog food. Your Labrador Retriever depends on you to feed him what he needs to make him healthy, and to replenish the calories he burns in his active lifestyle. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? Are you a first-time, inexperienced puppy owner? Are you confused about what to feed your Labrador puppy? Do you wish to provide your beloved puppy with the best diet but are confused as to what that is? We have compiled this article for you to help you figure out the best options for your puppy. What to feed your puppy? What are the different types of food available? There is no one food type that everyone agrees to be the best and most effective for your Labrador puppies. Even experts disagree on what type of food is the absolute best for your beloved puppy. There are 4 main types of food for dogs. Each one of them has its fair share of pros and cons. Kibble or dry food Many people regard kibble as the best food for puppies. Dry food is by far the most popular feeding method due to its convenience and price. But is it any good? If you go for high-quality kibble food brands, you can be sure that the food is providing your dog with all the necessary nutrients it requires. However, if you choose to go for cheaper brands of kibble, you will not only be unsure of the quality of the food, but they will also lack the necessary nutrients that your dog requires. It is convenient, cost-effective in the long run, and comes in a wide range of flavors. However, dogs can become bored of kibble, and they will never be as excited to eat dry food as to eat actual meat. Despite criticism, this type of dog food has some benefits. This makes cleaning after your dog much easier for you. It also reduces the risk of bloat, which can be a potentially fatal condition. Dogs fed on kibble are more at risk of bloat. It makes them clean, glowing, and shiny. It reduces the risk of obesity, and your dog enjoys a slim but healthy figure. Dogs enjoy eating meat more than they enjoy eating dry food. However, there are some cons to a completely raw diet. When dogs bite down on a bone, they swallow small fragments that could form a blockage in the intestine. This blockage, in the best-case scenario, causes constipation, and in the worst-case scenario requires immediate veterinary surgery. Wet food cans and pouches A puppy might prefer wet food over kibble as it looks and tastes way more appetizing. However, as in the case of dry food, if you choose a cheap brand, it will not have the essential nutrients your puppy needs. So choose high-quality brands that will ensure the nutrition that your puppy needs. An advantage of wet food, compared to dry food, is that it contains a higher percentage of liquid, which helps hydrate the dog and make it feel fuller. Home-cooked puppy food If you are reluctant to buy mass-produced puppy food from the market, you can always prepare a homemade meal for your dog. You have to make sure that the meal consists of all the necessary nutrients required by your dog. How much should you feed your puppy? Like human babies or any baby animals, puppies also need more meals than adult dogs. A puppy will need about 3 or 4 meals a day. If you are feeding your puppy 3 meals a day, and your pup has loose stools, then take the amount of food for 3 meals, and divide it into 4 meals in a day. How do you recognize quality puppy food? There are a lot of choices to choose from when you go to buy puppy food. So how do you choose the one with the best quality? If you go for one of the well-known, popular, and widely consumed brands, the chances are that the puppy food of these brands is of high quality; hence, their popularity. So, do not be reluctant to spend some bucks, and get your beloved puppy the food it deserves. What is to be done if your puppy is not eating? Not all puppies are greedy for more and more food. It is a proven fact that puppies tend to eat more when they are eating in a group, and generally eat less when they are eating less. Hence, for the first few days that your puppy spends without its brothers and sisters, it may not eat as much and have a reduced appetite. Usually, a reduced appetite is not something to worry about, but it is best to mention it to your vet in the next checkup or if the problem continues to persist. Click here to find the best dog food for your Labrador Puppy When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? A small dog like a Chihuahua might become an adult when it is around 9 months of age. However, a larger dog breed like a Labrador will need another 4 to 6 months to become an adult. You also have to reduce the amount of food you give to your dog as it will not need as much food as an adult as it is needed as a puppy. You may also change dog food brands if you feel like it. Now that you are aware of different alternatives of puppy food that are available for you, and of some main questions regarding dogs and their food, it is time for you to decide what type of food will suit your dog the best and what brand you are going to purchase your dog food from if you are not making a homemade meal. If you want to find the best pet insurance for your labrador, click here. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.