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Seen variously as a working dog, show dog, companion animal, the Boxer was even employed during the war efforts of World War I and World War II as an attack dog. Dobermann Pinschers, known simply as Dobermann in their homeland of Germany, are equally as alert and intelligent as Boxers. Known for their long muzzles, graceful gaits, and intense loyalty to their owners, they were originally bred to provide protection to their owners. Socialization from a young age will almost always result in them being a loyal companion animal, as well as a proficient guard dog. Thankfully, the Boxerman has inherited the most desirable traits of both of its parent breeds — and lost much of the aggression and stubbornness that can still be present in both parents. Kind, sociable, and loyal to an extreme, the Boxerman has a gentle nature to complement its stout physique. Besides being ill-suited to extremely cold or hot temperatures, they enjoy a high degree of health and generally long lifespans. They Are A Member of the Molosser Group of Dogs Even further back than their Boxer and Dobermann ancestors, Boxerman dogs are related to the Molossian Hound, an ancient dog breed renowned throughout Greek literature for its large size and legendary ferocity. Even Aristotle was awed by their nature, commenting that they were remarkable for both their courage and endurance in hard labor. The Boxerman Makes an Excellent Police Dog Thanks to its heritage from two willful, alert dogs that were bred for loyalty and guarding, Boxerman dogs are now trained to join K9 police units around the United States. In this capacity, they are respected for their ability to quickly learn and retain commands, as well as their tenaciousness when given a target to chase or attack. They Can Be Quite Good with Small Pets Boxerman dogs do not tend to have a high prey drive like those of the Terrier or Retriever families and can easily be trained to be gentle with small animals. If you already own rabbits, birds, ferrets, or rats, introducing a Boxerman puppy to them early in its life will likely lead to long-term friendship bonds. Capable of learning tricks and commands with relative ease, they make excellent guard dogs thanks to their suspicion of strangers and stout physical stature. Around their owners and people they know well, Boxermen are playful and energetic and love to be cuddled and roughhoused with. Confident in their physical abilities, Boxermen can also be seen to display a wonderfully gentle side that enjoys lounging and snuggling with their friends. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Extremely loyal and devoted, they form intense bonds with both their primary owner and any of their family members. Combine this with a generally friendly and often gentle demeanor, and the Boxerman can easily get along well with children and adults of all ages. Do you think it might be the right pet for you? If so, read up on the following topics to learn more about the responsibilities and requirements for owning this lovely breed. For an average-sized Boxerman, expect to feed them three to four cups of dry dog food per day. Around an hour a day of moderate activity is enough to keep them in robust health. This can include a combination of long walks, playing fetch, or learning new tricks and commands. They respond well to firm commands and positive reinforcement and will often come to enjoy the interaction as well as mental and physical stimulation of learning new commands. Consider enrolling your Boxerman in obedience classes from an early age to solidify the best behaviors possible in this breed. Exposing them to environments with other dogs can be especially helpful at this time, as it will acclimate them to sharing their space with other animals and tone down any aggressive tendencies. Weekly brushings will help keep them looking their best, and a monthly bath with dog-friendly shampoo will prevent the development of any unpleasant odors. Nevertheless, it may be helpful to stay aware of some of the illnesses its parent breeds suffer from. Some conditions to look out for include: Minor Conditions. White, brindle, black, fawn, red, blue Suitable for: Active families looking for a low-shedding pet and watchdog Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, friendly, alert The origins of the Boxerman are unknown. This pup is a loving pet that is relatively easy to care for and a quick learner. That makes them ideal for the experienced dog owner. Both parent breeds bring health issues to the table, though. 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. However, many of these are controllable if you get a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old and has had valuable socialization time with their mother and littermates. The Boxer in your pup has a relatively high prey drive due to their hunting past. That also fuels their wanderlust potential and tendency to bark. The Boxerman is a large dog. They are affectionate with their human companions and want to spend time with them. That also means a commitment on your part. They are a loyal dog that will form strong bonds with their owner. They also are more sensitive to harsh words than you may think. Positive reinforcement is the best way to handle a Boxerman. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are affectionate pets that can make excellent watchdogs. We suggest supervising playtime with younger children just because of the size of this pup. Both parent breeds have a high potential for playfulness. The intensity of the Boxer may overwhelm smaller kids. The size and prey drive of the Boxer might prevent getting along with other pets. A fleeing cat is sure to trigger a chase. Early socialization is imperative if you already have a dog. We suggest enrolling your pet in puppy playtime classes as soon as you get them. Things to Know When Owning a Boxerman Owning a larger dog is more of a training commitment because of their size. It also means more attention to exercise, training, and their diet because both parent breeds have a tendency to get overweight. Fortunately, the Boxerman is an energetic dog, which will help on that score. However, there are several other things to consider with this particular mix. Their needs are different from smaller dogs, which mature more rapidly. Puppies need more protein and fat than adult dogs to support their growth and development. We suggest feeding your pup three or four small meals a day and gradually cutting this down to two times a day as an adult. Both parent breeds have a heightened risk of bloat, which can occur if they gulp down their food and swallow too much air. Feeding them multiple meals makes this less likely to occur. It will also keep their blood sugar stable throughout the day. That will mean daily walks to keep your pet active and help avoid obesity. A walk will also provide adequate mental stimulation, which is vital for intelligent pups like the Boxerman. However, that also means that you must be a strong leader when it comes to training. Treats are excellent motivators and will foster a positive training experience with your Boxerman. We recommend weekly brushing to keep the hair under control. You should also check their ears regularly, especially if they are not cropped. We suggest handling their paws frequently to get them used to having them touched. We recommend buying from reputable sellers who do pre-breeding screenings. This also makes regular vet care imperative. Minor Conditions. By: David Codr Published Date: July 8, Lilo is a one-year-old female Doberman Boxer mix who was kicked out of doggy daycare for not stopping when another dog was done playing. At home she demands attention and doenst listen or come when called. If your dog thinks that it can tell you what to do, that often gives them the impression that they have more authority than they actually have. If a dog thinks it has the same authority or more , then listening to you is no longer required. Also, dogs feel stress when they think they need to be responsible for something or someone. This is most likely part of the reason that Lilo refuses to let other dogs alone when they communicate that they are done playing with her. This sort of positive dog training helps a dog learn it needs to ask rather than tell humans what to do. I have just found that adding in a little bit of structure to petting them can go a long ways towards helping the dog develop self-control and respect for the humans as authority figures. Petting with a purpose is a very easy strategy once you get into the habit of doing it. Another great way to help the dog start to identify as being in the follower position is for her family to incorporate a few rules. I suggested a number of rules and boundaries and showed her guardians how to enforce them. It will be important that they are vigilant and immediately disagree with Lilo the instant she starts to cross a boundary or break a rule. The goal is to respond within one third of a second and the maximum of three seconds after the dog engages in the unwanted action or behavior. To help with the guardians better communicate their disagreement, I shared a set of escalating consequences that I developed a few years ago. Because these consequences were derived from how dogs interact with one another socially, Lilo picked up on them right away. Later in the session I learned that Lilo does not like her kennel and often explodes out of it in a burst of energy when her guardians open the door. To address these issues, I spent a couple of minutes going over an exercise that teaches the dog to restrain herself and to remain calm while inside the kennel. The more structure that the guardians can incorporate into her life, the better control she will be able to develop. I also recommended that the guardians set a goal of teaching her one new trick or command a week for the next two or three months starting with the stay. I suggested that they each pick tricks or commands and set up a rotation. Each week one person teaches the dog a new trick, then shows the family so that they can all help the dog practice it all week long. The next week, another family member teaches a different trick. This will help the dog learn more self-control and skills that will help her feel better about herself. This will also help her develop more respect for each member of the family as they are assuming a teaching role in her eyes as they instruct her on how to do the new command or trick. Once Lilo starts to identify as being a follower, it will be easier for her guardians to disagree with her whenever she starts to engage in unwanted actions or behaviors. Development of self control in concert with this change of mindset should help Lilo understand that when someone, or some dog, says no, she needs to accept it. In time this will allow her to go back to doggy day care and make friends instead of being the pushy dog no one wants to hang with. Share this:. It is sometimes referred to as the Boxerman. Is it more like the Boxer or the Doberman? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. This could obviously be a very strong and powerful mix and might be best for an experienced dog owner. It will probably make a good watchdog. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Boxer Doberman Mix. Note that this hybrid can consist of the brindle or other iterations. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue , we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Boxer Doberman Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Boxer Doberman Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. Please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Hence the name. Boxer Dobermann served in the dangerous role of local tax collector, and ran the Apolda dog pound. With access to dogs of many breeds, he aimed to create a breed that would be ideal for protecting him during his collections, which took him through many bandit-infested areas. He set out to breed a new type of dog that, in his opinion, would be the perfect combination of strength, speed, endurance, loyalty, intelligence, and ferocity. Later, Otto Goeller and Philip Greunig continued to develop the breed to become the dog that is seen today. The breed is believed to have been created from several different breeds of dogs that had the characteristics that Boxer Dobermann was looking for. The exact ratios of mixing, and even the exact breeds that were used, remain uncertain to this day, although many experts believe that the Boxer Doberman Pinscher is a combination of several breeds including the Beauceron, German Pinscher, Rottweiler and Weimaraner. The single exception is the documented crossing with the Greyhound and Manchester Terrier. It is also widely believed that the old German Shepherd gene pool was the single largest contributor to the Boxer Doberman breed. Philip Greunig's The Boxer Dobermann Pinscher , is considered the foremost study of the development of the breed by one of its most ardent students. Greunig's study describes the breed's early development by Otto Goeller, whose hand allowed the Boxer Doberman to become the dog we recognize today. Boxer The Boxer is a relatively new breed from the late 19th century. It hails from Germany. He hails from the Bulldog and some German Mastiffs. As most dogs he is a mix of many breeds. He was bred to be a working dog and has hunting and fighting in his past. He was a voracious worker in both World Wars. He is a very playful dog and really not very aggressive, but is extremely loyal. He is extremely alert and will be good with your kids. If he or his family feels threatened, he will show his protective side. Boxerman Pinscher Description Boxerman is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Boxer and the Doberman Pinscher. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He loves to run around and play, he is especially finicky after his bath. He is a mostly indoor dog, he goes outside to play and to do his business, and is fenced in. He lives with our other dog Fryla, a mixed breed. He's also one of the funniest dogs I've met. He is a really smart dog, and it didn't take me long to house train him, maybe a month to get him to always go outside. In this picture he is probably two and a half months old. He loves to play and he is great with little children. He was chasing my cousin who is three years old and to catch her he would put his mouth on her, not biting just putting his mouth up against her, like ha I caught you! His bad habits are he likes to get into everything. He chews on underwear and socks. He loves to eat rocks. He definitely loves to chase birds. He is a smart dog though, within a month of me having him, he knows how to roll over, give me a high five and he gives me kisses. But I'm like Diego give me a kiss and he puts his mouth up to mine, not licking me. He knows when I tell him to jump and he dances with me. I can take him outside and he doesn't run away. He listens pretty well for the most part. I tell him to get in the car and he gets in the car, I tell him to get in the back and he goes. She is a Boxerman Pinscher. Her mom's name is Justice; she is a full-blooded Doberman Pinscher. Liberty's dad was a full-blooded Boxer.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. By Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. Today, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are in the herding breed group, which means they are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence, loyalty, and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue. This large dog breed has an average weight ranging from 65—90 pounds. They are typically 22—26 inches tall with a life expectancy of 10—12 years. Caring for a German Shepherd German Shepherds are incredibly active dogs that require intense training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble physically and mentally. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents. Socialization and consistent training will be essential when a German Shepherd is a puppy. This will help them to grow out of unruly behaviors such as nipping and jumping. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds a lot. They will also typically go through a molting, which is a period of excessive shedding, one to two times a year. German Shepherd Health Issues While German Shepherds have a long life expectancy for a large breed dog, they are prone to several health problems. A trustworthy breeder will screen both male and female dogs being bred for health conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. German Shepherds commonly also get gastric dilation and volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat, as well as cancer, allergies, heart disease, and a few other conditions. Pet parents of German Shepherds should be highly educated on the symptoms to look for, as early detection is the key to a good prognosis for any serious condition. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic disorder that affects the spinal cord, slowly causing paralysis of the back legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind end and difficulty standing up. Watch your dog carefully for signs of pain and discomfort that come on gradually rather than suddenly. Check their claws at least once a month to watch for signs of uneven wear which would indicate a subtle lameness. There is no treatment for this condition, but physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and protect their ability to use their legs. While there is no cure, you can test for this condition using a DNA-based blood test submitted to the University of Florida or the University of Missouri. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause lifelong pain in the front limbs. Hip dysplasia is another degenerative joint disease that affects the hind end. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in because of this disease process. The treatment for all degenerative joint diseases includes weight loss, reduced activity, joint protection supplements, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery. Cancer Cancer can develop in German Shepherds at any age, but usually occurs later in life. Common cancers include hemangiosarcoma and bone, lung, and intestinal cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that is most often detected in blood-rich organs such as the spleen and the heart. The signs of hemangiosarcoma are usually related to internal bleeding, with symptoms such as weakness, white or pale gums, trouble breathing, a distended abdomen, and collapse. Other signs are usually nonspecific and indicate overall malaise, including lethargy, panting, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. Depending on the extent of the cancer, treatment plans can include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Bloat Gastric Dilation and Volvulus Bloat, or gastric dilation and volvulus GDV is a sudden life-threatening condition when the stomach enlarges with gas bloat and then twists upon itself GDV. This happens commonly in deep-chested, large-breed dogs such as German Shepherds. To limit the risk of GDV, German Shepherds should wait at least 30 minutes to one hour after eating to resume exercising. Another way to help prevent your German Shepherd from developing a life-threatening GDV would be via gastropexy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach prevents the stomach from being able to twist upon itself. Allergies Allergies in German Shepherds can be first seen with symptoms such as itchy skin, skin infections , ear infections , or digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. A thorough medical history and physical examination, diagnostic testing of skin and ears, blood work, and fecal tests are warranted if you suspect that your dog has allergies. Allergies in dogs can be treated by avoiding the cause and the allergen and managing the symptoms that exist with diet therapy and medications. Heart Disease Heart disease, specifically DCM dilated cardiomyopathy , valvular disease, and heart murmurs, can be common in German Shepherds. A special diet should also be considered to restrict sodium intake and to increase the amount of certain amino acids to promote heart health. Dogs with significant heart disease should not be pushed to exercise beyond their limits. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a digestive health issue that occurs when the cells of the pancreas do not produce enzymes and hormones normally. The most common symptom is weight loss, despite your pet having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms of EPI include soft stool or diarrhea; excessive gas; desire to eat feces and other unusual objects; flaky skin; or rough coat. Once the pancreas is damaged to the point that symptoms of EPI develop, you must give your dog pancreatic enzyme supplements and other treatments for the rest of their life. Nevertheless, with proper management, your dog can still live a happy life with this condition. Pannus Pannus, or superficial keratitis, is an immune-mediated painful eye condition that can cause blindness if not managed properly. It occurs more often in dogs that live at high altitudes, those with increased exposure to UV light, and in areas with severe air pollution. Keeping dogs indoors during the sunniest part of the day, providing a doghouse shelter, or trying a specialty pair of doggie sunglasses like Rex Specs may prove very helpful in preventing this issue. Most of these conditions have a genetic component and can be avoid by good breeding and preventive screening practices. They require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Offering table food and animal bones should be avoided, as they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia, and they also have a much higher fat content than dog food. High-fat foods can also cause pancreatitis. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd In general, puppies should be fed 3—4 times per day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food your German Shepherd eats. You can ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. There are some theories that German Shepherds that are fed smaller, more frequent meals have a lower incidence of bloat and stomach problems. How to Feed a German Shepherd Although there is a genetic component, science shows that rapid long bone growth in puppies such as German Shepherds and other large- and giant-breed dogs contributes to development of joint and bone conditions. Rapid bone growth is suspected to be caused by overfeeding and calcium supplementation. German Shepherds that are fed free-choice or overfed are at higher risk of rapid bone growth. Maintaining lean body weight will also help to decrease the rate of bone growth. Calcium supplements and adult dog foods rich in calcium should never be given to German Shepherd puppies under 6 months of age, as they cannot absorb calcium appropriately when they are that young. Conditions caused by rapid long bone growth and excess calcium supplementation can include: Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondrosis dissecans of the shoulder, knee, wrists, and ankles. This is improper growth and blood supply in a joint, which requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD. This is inflammation of the bone under the growth plate; it can cause severe joint swelling, pain, fever, anorexia, lameness, and not wanting to move. This is an inflammation of the long bones and associated blood vessels. Joint swelling is uncommon, but the symptoms are similar to HOD. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids high-quality fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis , which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics such as Purina Calming Care can be helpful not just for digestive issues, but with minor behavioral issues as well. Digestive enzymes come in powdered form to assist dogs who have pancreatic issues, such as German Shepherds with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Other vitamin and mineral supplements are generally not needed for healthy puppies and adults, as they get all they need from their AAFCO-approved diet daily. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. They are known to be gentle family dogs and loyal protectors of those they trust. This loyalty can make German Shepherds seem more standoffish around strangers. It does take them some time to gain the trust of other people and other pets. German Shepherds are a very active and athletic breed that require a ton of exercise for both their physical and mental health. Without exercise they will develop unfavorable behaviors, due to irritation and pent-up energy. Controlled leash walks and supervised free play in safe, fenced-in areas should be started when they are puppies. Keeping a German Shepherd on a leash at all times when in public places is a good rule of thumb, as even the most well-trained dog can be distracted and not follow regular commands, leading to a possible confrontation. These results should be provided to a pet parent by the breeder of the German Shepherd before the dog is purchased. Not all temperament and behavioral issues are evident in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether a dog will be free of these problems. Find a trustworthy breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. German Shepherd Behavior German Shepherds, like other herding dogs, tend to be on the nippy side. They have very powerful jaws, and unfortunately, they frequently bite. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. The German Shepherd dog is a pack animal. They need you to be the leader of the pack, providing structure and guidance. The key to success is consistency and practice; you will get the behavior you reward. German Shepherds from working lines have an extremely strong drive to work and may be more dog than most people can or want to handle. German Shepherds are very smart companions and exceptional workers. This helps you build the right foundation for your puppy to evolve into a well-adapted and well-mannered adult dog. Conversely, when your dog barks at you to pet them, do not start petting them until they sit down and quietly wait for you to do so. Soon they will learn that they get what they desire without the excessive, unnecessary behavior. German Shepherds thrive on consistency, positive reinforcement, and a reward system, such as a treats or toys to help strengthen the human-animal bond. They become very bonded to all members of the family and will be willing to participate in many family activities. Fun Activities for German Shepherd Herding. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. All of these take time in the early days. However, as the puppy matures and reaches adulthood, looking after a German Shepherd gets a little easier. Nonetheless, a young adult will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. Without anyone to fulfill this role, a German Shepherd will not be happy in your home no matter what kind of care you provide. You should only get a German Shepherd if: Your house has a backyard. Or you have enough space and enough dedication to take him on lots of walks to expend his pent-up energy. You have a family or regular company. German Shepherds mimic their owners, and if you are asocial, your dog might turn inwards and become aggressive to other people and pets. You have enough time to dedicate to your dog every day. If you leave him for extended periods every day, your dog will develop separation anxiety. Avoid getting a German Shepherd if you cannot be around him. You are an active person. If you enjoy outdoor activities, like walking or hiking, and love socializing, a German Shepherd will complement your life. More importantly, your new dog will be happier with you. You can afford their monthly expense. Monthly costs for food, treats, vet fees, toys, etc. Prior to this, you have the initial costs of a crate, bed, leash, harness, travel crate, playpen, etc. But if it is, then you will have a lot of fun and a fulfilling experience caring for your GSD. To care for a German Shepherd, you must feed him a highly nutritious diet, exercise him daily for 1. Ongoing training, twice-weekly grooming, and vet check-ups are all part of caring for a GSD. An adult dog needs to be fed twice per day to discourage bloat and ensure proper digestion, whereas a growing puppy will need feeding times a day at regular intervals. Your dog will need 1, to 2, calories per day depending on his weight. If you adopt a senior German Shepherd, he will need only 1, calories at a weight of 90 lbs. However, in most cases, owners looking for a guide to care for a German Shepherd have adopted a younger puppy. This UK study found that one disorder of GSDs recorded by vets included obesity, alongside joint issues and arthritis. I prefer going with breed-specific products made by trusted brands. You can then switch to the adult variety. Do you want to learn all about the best diet for German Shepherds? This is good because it allows you to anchor the command and familiarize your dog with the norm of going outside to go potty. German Shepherds will usually be fully house trained by six months and may only need to pee every hours. It also has the option of single or double doors. An asocial dog is a wolf to our subconscious. Your job is to promote curiosity by encouraging him to follow you around. Have tempting treats just around the corner. Egg him on to follow you by danging attractive playable objects like a tug rope. This is also a good time to start bringing home objects that the puppy is likely to witness outdoors. This builds a bridge of familiarity between the outdoors and the indoors. If you expose him to other humans during this period, including children, he becomes friendly. A German Shepherd exposed to humans at a young age is less anxious and gets treated better as a consequence. Some new dog owners make the mistake of waiting until their puppy is grown enough to go on walks then take them to meet people. By then, the pup has already built an idea of an in-group and sees all strangers as the out-group. You should carry your puppy and get him to experience different sights, sounds, smells, and noises as soon as you get him. Have friends and family pet him before he develops a biting reflex. With enough positive exposure during this stage, your pup will likely see human presence as a good thing. Stage Three: Other Dogs Your friends will want your new puppy to visit. To socialize your German Shepherd with other dogs, you need to reward him for being quiet and calm around them. Before full immunization, carry him to the dog park and let him observe the other dogs. Reward him for good behavior and speak calmly and with praise. Remove him from the situation if he growls or barks, and calm him down. Once he is calm, try again. Sufficiently Exercise Your German Shepherd Young German Shepherds are very energetic, and if they do not get a productive outlet to release their excess energy, they can become destructive. To avoid scratched furniture and chewed-up rugs, you should exercise your GSD sufficiently for his age. An adult dog will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. As a rough guide, a German Shepherd puppy needs 5 minutes of exercise twice a day for every month of age. So, an 8-week-old puppy can exercise for 10 minutes twice daily, while a three-month-old can exercise for 15 minutes twice daily. Follow this rule until the puppy is fully grown. Common mistakes to avoid when exercising the dog are: Taking a dog on walks outside before he is fully vaccinated — A puppy should not be taken out for walks until 2 weeks after the final vaccinations which are usually given between weeks .Letting the German Shepherd jump too early — Exercising a German Shepherd puppy entails being careful not to damage his growth plates. They can safely jump after they are fully grown at 18 months old. Not making exercise fun — If you treat exercise as simply that, your German Shepherd will not have fun. He can pick up on your mood, so you should make exercising enjoyable for you both. Mental exercise is easier to turn into a fun routine. From training a GSD to do party tricks to giving him fun puzzles to solve, there are many fun ways to provide mental stimulation for your German Shepherd. When your dog is bored, he might start bothering you by engaging in destructive attention-seeking behaviors. GSDs are among the smartest dog breeds, with the average dog being as intelligent as a two-year-old human. This puzzle doubles as a treat dispenser, which automates the reward mechanism. What I like about this specific product is that it comes in different levels of difficulty. With levels 1 through 4 produced by the same brand, you can reliably amp up the challenge level as your German Shepherd gets smarter. You can check out this article for some great tips on how to exercise your pup, 7 Fun Ways to Exercise a German Shepherd Puppy. During playtimes, you and your doggo are engaged in low-effort, enjoyable activities. Games are the bridge joining mental and physical exercise to constitute play. Here are some of the games you can play with your German Shepherd: Fetch — This is good for building rapport between you and your dog, improving his response time, and conditioning him for obedience. Hide and Seek — Playing hide and seek with your dog also improves his tracking skills. You train your dog to pick up a scent and follow clues. Tug of war — Playing tug of war with your German Shepherd can be a lot of fun. However, as your dog grows, you might find the game challenging once he is 90 lbs! So, bear this in mind if you play this game with your young pup. Cups and treats — This is a game where cups are turned upside down, and a treat is hidden underneath one cup. You quickly shuffle the cups changing their position, and the GSD gets a treat for pointing out the right one.

Also called Miniature Labrapoos, Labradoodles, and Labradorpoos, the Miniature Labradoodle is a well-known hybrid breed in a smaller package. They are sweet-natured and smart, and they love to spend time with their people. They are affectionate with their family. They are also tolerant and compassionate, and they tend to be well-behaved around people of all ages and other pets. Labradoodles are generally healthy and should live to be 10 to 14 years old. These qualities make Miniature Labradoodles an ideal family dog that does well with other pets and children. Even the most inexperienced dog parents find this breed to be easy to train and eager to please. They are too gentle and sweet to make a good guard dog, but they can be useful watchdogs. They are small and fluffy, square and athletic. Long, furry ears are set on the top and back of their heads. Their muzzles can be medium to long. The Miniature Labradoodle coat varies a great deal, ranging from straight to loose curls, and usually kept about 4 to 6 inches in length. The coat may be one of three textures. They could have hair similar to fur in shedding dogs, they could have a more dense and non-shedding wool, or they could have more of a silky fleece. They come in a variety of colors: Gold. With over 20 years of experience, we have shared our Labradoodle Puppies with families across this Country, and around the world. As an Authentic Australian Labradoodle Breeder, we offer our Riverbend Australian Labradoodle puppies in Miniature sizes lbs , Medium sizes 45lbs , and Standard sizes lbs. Because of our years of experience and success with our English Style Labrador Retriever Breeding Program , our Riverbend Labradoodles are stocky, heavy-boned, and have a beautiful, blocky style of head that gives them a soft, intuitive expression. We are so blessed to be involved with a fantastic Worldwide Labradoodle Breed organization, bringing together nearly Breeders from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia that are dedicated to protecting the breed we love so much. We are honored at the opportunity to help protect and promote the breed we love so much with our participation in these organizations. Our commitment to quality and accountability to these organizations offers peace of mind in purchasing one of our Australian Labradoodle puppies. Our Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding, and we are dedicated to helping people with allergies add to their family. Our Labradoodles are known to have a laid- back, easy-going temperament, and are great family companions. They are intelligent and easy to train, and typically finish at the top of their obedience classes. Here at Riverbend, we have made it our focus to protect the health and future, while maintaining the integrity, of the Labradoodle breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to Quality, not quantity. We believe it is of utmost importance to have OFA hip, OFA elbow, ACVO eye clearances, and also breed specific health clearances, as well as Champion Quality pedigrees within all of our dogs' bloodlines, to ensure we have the healthiest Labradoodle Puppies possible. Take a look at Our Dogs. All of our Riverbend puppies are raised in our home for proper socialization and handling from birth. Our home is designed for our puppies to live with us, so we can provide a healthy environment, to build the foundation that will help them grow to their full potential. Paying attention to how a puppy grows, from the day he is born, is important for the very health and vitality of each puppy. And, we believe that the first eight weeks of a puppy's life, is of vital importance in determining his later behavior as an adult. We share our Australian Labradoodle Puppies with loving caring families, and you can be confident that our puppies are handled continuously, are exposed to our everyday life, and everyday noises, to create a positive social experience that will enable them to become lifelong companions. We hope that you enjoy our website and find it easy to navigate, helpful, informative, and fun. If you have any questions or would like more information about this fantastic breed, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We love sharing our Riverbend Labradoodles with others, and welcome all inquiries concerning them. Support an American Company and Small Business! We are confident these products are the best for your furry family member and we refuse to use anything else! How long has the Labradoodle been known as a breed? Labradoodles have been intentionally bred in Australia since .Wally Conran, a breeder of guide dogs, was the first breeder, using a standard poodle and Labrador retriever. The main goal was to create a dog that had the laid back nature of the Labrador coupled with the intelligence and allergy friendly coat of the Poodle. As the breed gained popularity, many kennels have bred and cross-bred the Labradoodle. What is an Australian Labradoodle? Over time infusions of some other breeds were added to target smaller sizes and more consistent, lower maintenance coats. The breed then became known as the Australian Labradoodle. Over the years the Labrador and poodle have kept a high degree of function ie agility and freedom of movement within their breeding. Both breeds were originally bred to be gun dogs, were excellent at retrieving waterfowl and due to their intelligence and trainability they are still used for hunting to this day. Labradors have a strong and muscular body, are athletic and playful and well known for their easy going gentle nature, placid and are great around children. However, they do love their food and are at the larger end of the scale, so harder to fit in the car. Poodles are long lived, have good genetic strengths and a well-proportioned muscular frame, which is helpful in preventing joint problems. They love to be close to their human as they can be less self-sufficient than the Labrador. They can also be a little bouncy and excitable. Both breeds are popular as working and family dogs as well as therapy and service dogs. Bred together, the hugely popular Labradoodle, which seems to moderate the extremes of both breeds, is intelligent, easy going and an affectionate companion with a low to non-shedding coat. Proudly created with Wix. Goldendoodles and Double Doodles also available. Double Doodles are a Labradoodle and Goldendoodle mix. Their intelligence and high trainability makes the Labradoodle well suited for guide dogs, therapy dogs, and other assistance dogs. Their non allergic coats make them popular among people who have not been able to enjoy pets because of their allergies. The Labradoodle breed is bound to become even more popular as more people learn about this lovable dog. Australian and American Labradoodles come in three sizes, miniature, medium and standard. Miniature size is 10 to 30 pounds — 14 to 17 inches at the shoulder Medium is 30 to 50 pounds and 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder Standard is 50 pounds and over and 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder Females can be a bit smaller in size and weight to their male litter mates. Some Miniature can run smaller with some breeders calling them Micro-Minis. This is not the best cross for people with severe allergies. F1B Labradoodle is likely to be non-shedding and Allergy friendly. The F2B Labradoodle you get low to non-shedding. The curly coat will be allergy friendly. F3 Labradoodles is likely to be non-shedding and allergy friendly. Australian Labradoodle is a Multi-Gen. Labradoodle History Labradoodles are a relatively new breed of dogs that were first bred by Wally Cochran in .Hair and saliva samples from 33 different poodles in Hawaii were sent to the couple to see if the dogs would cause an allergic reaction in the husband; they all did. He agreed, and so the first Labradoodles were bred. The other two puppies also lived useful lives, one as a Remedial Dog, and the other as a Guide Dog. There was a waiting list of people wanting to puppy walk Guide Dogs, but when these new cross breeds needed homes no one wanted to take them in. People fell in love with the new breed, and soon there was an overwhelming demand for them that was not being met. The result was an unpredictable variety of puppies with various physical characteristics. The evident need for breeders to develop a standard for this fascinating dog gave rise to the establishment of two Breeding and Research Centers for Labradoodles in Australia. They used only health tested Labradors, Poodles, and 3rd generation Labradoodles. It also carefully controlled its breeding program, using only the finest genetically healthy dogs. When these were crossed with the standard Labradoodle, the medium Labradoodle resulted. Thus three sizes are currently distinguished; the miniatures are 14 — 17 inches tall, the mediums are 18 — 21 inches, and the standards are 22 — 26 inches. Labradoodles from the early generations had a large diversity in coat types. Some of the curlier coated puppies grew up to be low allergy, while others started out low allergy but by 8 months had shed their coats, which was replaced by a coat that was not low allergy. Some puppies grew up to look like Golden Retrievers with a thinner coat, and others looked similar to a Labrador. The breeding centers selectively bred away from the shedding coat and now, shedding coats are rare. Labradoodles are now bred to have either the truly Fleece coat or the Wool Curly coat. The fleece coat has a distinctly soft fleecy feel unlike any other dog coat. It hangs in loose loopy spirals like that of the Angora goat. The Wool Curly coat resembles that of a poodle and feels like a soft woolly sweater. Both coat types are non-shedding and allergy friendly. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Labradoodles We raise quality, well bred F3 also known as multigenerational Labradoodle puppies. But what are "multigen" Labradoodles you may ask? The term multigenerational labradoodles simply means any labradoodle that is beyond a second generation mix. Typically this means that an F3 Labradoodle was bred from two second generation Labradoodles. It is important to know that they have a curly coat that requires very routine maintenance including regular brushing and grooming. While no dog is actually "no-shed" or hypo-allergenic" F3 Labradoodles will have little to no shedding and most often would be a good fit for someone with an allergy to dogs. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee our puppies will not cause allergies for some folks. Bella Bella is a chocolate cafe au lait F2 labradoodle. She is the Princess of the group and absolutely adores being pampered. She would be happy if you brushed her all day long. Cooper is her best friend and they are often found snuggled up together. Bella has been genetically tested with Embark breeders panel. Cooper Cooper is a cream colored F2 Labradoodle. He is a BIG baby, but despite his large size he believes he's quite small and should be a lap dog. Cooper has a thing against open doors and insists on closing any door that happens to be left open. He loves his stuffy and will carry it around with him like a baby. Bella is his best friend and you will often find them cuddling each other. Cooper has been genetically tested with the Embark breeders panel. The kind of Labradoodle you choose will depend on your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a dog. F3 Labradoodles are 50 percent Labrador and 50 percent Poodle. F3s are the result of breeding two second-generation Labradoodles. Today we will be discussing the F3 Labradoodle. Three Labradoodles with different types of coats. So, what does the F3 mean? What does a F3 Labradoodle look like? The 3 refers to the fact that this is the third generation of Labradoodle. The F1 Labradoodle combines the Labrador and Poodle. The result is a Labradoodle that is 50 percent Labrador and 50 percent Poodle. The F2 Labradoodle is then bred with another F2 Labradoodle. The result will still be a Labradoodle that is 50 percent Labrador and 50 percent Poodle. The F3 Labradoodle results from breeding two F2 Labradoodles, resulting in the same ratio 50 percent Labrador and 50 percent Poodle. This wavy coat white Labradoodle has very long hair. Size of an F3 Labradoodle One thing to understand about generational breeding with two breeds is that the results are unpredictable at some level. With that being said, the size of an F3 Labradoodle will usually fall somewhere in between the size of its parent breeds. There will be significant variations within each litter and from one litter to the next. The size of an F3 Labradoodle will also depend on other factors such as nutrition and exercise. The average weight of an F3 Labradoodle is between 50 and 65 pounds. The average height is between 20 and 26 inches. Of course, some dogs are on the smaller or larger side, but this is a general range that you can expect. The golden-brown coat of a tan F2b Labradoodle enjoying the beach Coat Types Most F3 Labradoodles have loose curls or extremely curly coats. The coils can range from tight ringlets to looser waves. The coat may be wavy or curly, but it is never straight. Regardless of curl pattern, most breeds are hypoallergenic. The coat of an F3 Labradoodle can be any color or combination of colors. Standard F3 colors are cream, black, brown, apricot, red, silver, and white. The coat of an F3 Labradoodle will require some grooming. Their coats should be brushed several times a week to prevent matting and tangles. They will also need to be trimmed or clipped every few months. It is important to note that Labradoodles do shed, but they are considered low-shedding dogs. This means that they will shed less than other breeds of dogs. Labradoodle with curly coat sitting on the grass. Temperament F3 Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and easily trainable. They can even be used as service dogs or therapy dogs because of their temperament. They are also known to be good with children and other animals. F3 Labradoodles need to be socialized at an early age. This means exposing them to different people, places, and situations to lower their chances of being fearful or anxious in new situations. It will help to ensure that they grow up to be well-rounded dogs. Can Labradoodles smile? Training F3 Labradoodles are intelligent dogs, and they are effortless to train. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Like all dogs, F3 Labradoodles must be trained on basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel. They will also need to be taught not to jump up on people or furniture. In addition to obedience training, F3 Labradoodles will need to be socialized. Labradoodles are loyal and bond closely with their primary family members Health F3 Labradoodles have a combination of the health problems that Poodles and Labrador Retrievers have. Hip and elbow dysplasia are hereditary conditions that cause the joint to develop abnormally. It can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Eye problems can include cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy. All of these conditions can be diagnosed by your veterinarian. The great thing about getting an F3 Labradoodle is that they tend to be more hypoallergenic than other generations. It is not entirely understood why they tend to have more Poodle genetics. If you are looking for a less likely dog to trigger your allergies, an F3 Labradoodle is a good choice. Do Genetics Matter? Genetics matter when it comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the look of an F1 Labradoodle, while others prefer the coat type of an F3 Labradoodle. It is really up to you which generation you prefer. The most important thing is finding a reputable breeder who is breeding healthy dogs. No matter which generation you choose, do your research before you bring a new dog home. It is just another step to get you closer to the perfect Labradoodle for you and your family. The F3 generation of Labradoodles is very popular. This harps further on the importance of doing research on breeders to avoid scams. With the popularity of these dogs, there are bound to be some people who are looking to make a quick buck off of unsuspecting buyers. It will help you get a better feel for the breeder and their operation. Also, ensure they have the family tree or pedigree of the puppy you are interested in. This will help you see the health clearances of the parents and grandparents of the puppy. They are intelligent, easy to train, and make great family pets. F3 Labradoodles are the most hypoallergenic, which makes them a good choice for people with allergies. When choosing an F3 Labradoodle, do your research on the breeder and get a copy of the family tree or pedigree. Taking all this into account will help you find the perfect F3 Labradoodle for your family. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Life Span Did You Know? A Labradoodle is a popular designer dog breed. It is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. This designer dog breed originated in Australia around .The main goal of the Labradoodle was to create a hypoallergenic guide dog for people living with disabilities who were also allergic to dog fur and dander. Now, they are still a popular choice for service, guide, and therapy dogs and are also a popular companion dog. Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are both friendly, gentle, intelligent, and affectionate dog breeds. The Labradoodle tends to be similar. They are open and friendly and crave human attention and affection. They are happiest when they are with people. Labradoodles also tend to have an energetic and playful personality. They get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and strangers. They are alert enough to bark or let you know when someone is at the door, but they are not generally good watchdogs or guard dogs as they are more interested in making friends. A Labradoodle is a highly adaptable dog breed. They do very well in homes with space to run and they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Because they enjoy being around people, they do not generally like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also become bored if not given enough attention, exercise, or mental stimulation, which can result in destructive behavior. This dog breed is generally healthy, but they do have the chance of inheriting common health conditions from both of the parent breeds. Some health conditions to be aware of include elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Good breeding practices can reduce the likelihood of passing on many of these health issues. Be sure to talk with the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and ask to see any health clearances; this can help allay potential health concerns. A Labradoodle tends to be eager to please and highly intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. They are a good fit for dog owners of any experience level. As with most dog breeds, Labradoodles respond best to training that is consistent and uses positive reinforcement. There are some grooming tasks that are common to every dog breed. When it comes to coat care, it can vary with a Labradoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that is also high maintenance in terms of brushing, trimming, and professional grooming. Labs tend to have a higher shedding coat that needs minimal brushing and grooming. For the most part, a Labradoodle will have a low or non-shedding coat that will need to be brushed a few times a week. But, they can have a higher shedding coat should they take after their Labrador parent. You may also need a few professional grooming sessions throughout the year. Nail trimming once a month is usually enough to keep movement comfortable and prevent longer nails from snagging on things. Proper dental care for your dog will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Drop-down ears are more prone to infection because floppy ears are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. This will make grooming throughout their life a much more enjoyable process for both you and your dog. It can even become a bonding time for you both as well. Labradoodles tend to be high-energy dogs. They require a few daily walks plus some time to run and play in order to stay happy and healthy. They certainly love to play and you may tire out before they do sometimes. They may calm down a little as they get to be a couple of years old, but they tend to be quite energetic as puppies. Going swimming with your dog , taking a hike with them, going on a trip to the dog park, playing a game of fetch, and more are all great supplemental activities to ensure your Labradoodle gets plenty of exercise. You can even train them to compete in dog sports like dock diving, flyball, agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Labradoodle will usually stand between 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Labradoodles generally live 12 — 14 years. However, it did not become popular until when the mix was specifically bred to create hypoallergenic guide dogs. Featured Labradoodle Article. Remember, some breeders will differ in f3 Labradoodle breeding. Some may even consider an f2 Labradoodle and f1b Labradoodle cross to be an f3 Labradoodle mix. So, find out exactly what breeds have parented your Labradoodle puppy. Why Do Labradoodle Generations Matter? Mixed breed dogs can be quite unpredictable, especially when they are first generation mixes. This is because puppies can inherit any traits from either parent! Just remember that mixed breeds can be unpredictable. So, even if you choose an f3 Labradoodle in the hopes of getting a low shedding coat, that Labrador DNA could shine through and give a Labrador-type coat! So, they may still be quite unpredictable. However, if your Labradoodle has been backcrossed to a Poodle at some point, they may be more likely to have a Poodle coat. In general, the best way to predict how mixed breed puppies will turn out is to take a look at the two parent dogs. Are f3 Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? One of the major reasons that people want Labradoodles is for their low shedding coat. However, in truth, no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. So, if your dog sheds their fur, they may be more likely to shed dander, which will trigger allergies. The Poodle coat has tight curls that trap shedding fur and dander, which can cause matting and prompt the need for increased grooming. But, not all f3 Labradoodles are guaranteed to have a Poodle coat. They may be more likely to have the fleece or hair coats also found in Labradoodle mixes. A Labradoodle with a Poodle wool coat may trap shedding dander before it falls onto your carpets. Especially because you would have to spend more time grooming them, and dematting any tangles in their fur. The best way to know if an f3 Labradoodle is going to trigger your allergy symptoms is to spend some time with the dog before committing and bringing them home. Alternatively, choose a Labradoodle that has been backcrossed to get a Poodle coat, and get someone else in the family to do the grooming! Are f3 Labradoodles Good Family Pets? For the right family, an f3 Labradoodle can make a great companion. Coming from two working dogs, this mix will be very intelligent and able to pick up training well. Positive reinforcement training is a great way to build a strong bond, along with some reliable commands! As well as training, owners must socialize their f3 Labradoodles well to encourage confidence, and that typical friendly, affectionate personality. And, there is still some natural variation in f3 Labradoodle puppies. So, you may need to tweak their care needs to suit their individual traits. For instance, learning how to care for their exact coat type. When puppies are as popular as this, puppy mills and backyard breeders often rise up to make a quick profit. Puppies from these places may be less healthy, and may be more likely to have behavioral problems. So, put plenty of research into choosing your breeder. Ask lots of questions, meet the puppies and mother dog in person, and make sure to see evidence of health testing. If there are any particular traits that you are looking for, like a curly Poodle coat, speak to your breeder about this. And, remember that f3 Labradoodles may also be called multigenerational Labradoodles by some breeders. Some breeders may differ in how they achieve a third generation mix. So, you may want to ask questions about exactly how your breeder achieves their third generation puppies. But, no matter what, you can expect this mix to be energetic, affectionate, and quick to learn. This way, you can potentially predict certain traits, such as low shedding fur. Do you have an f3 Labradoodle at home? We would love to hear your experience with them! References and Resources. These puppies are very dark chocolate. They have been raised with small children and other dogs. These puppies will be medium in size, lbs. They will be UTD on Vaccines, de wormings, bordatella, and will be microchipped. Our puppies are socialized daily with small children and other dogs in our home. They will also be crate trained. Contact me for more information. Their puppies will be small mediums lbs. The lowest generation we are now breeding are F3 Labradoodles. We breed American and Australian Multigenerational Labradoodle puppies. In order to keep our lines clean no back breeding or line breeding when breeding the higher generation Labradoodle puppies, ie; 4th, 5th and higher, it is our choice to go back to the original infusion of the 2nd generation or higher Cock-a-Poo as well as The poodle. Our minature Labradoodles are bred down naturally starting with the Standard Poodle and English Stature Labrador Retriever within our own program…. Our Labradoodle puppies are raised in our home with lots of daily TLC. T-Touch stimulation socialization. Many of our puppies placed go on to train as therapy dogs. We also have quite a few Certified Service Dogs. We travel back and forth between Sunny South Florida and South Carolina with all our Labradoodle puppy litters once vaccinated. As well as any other states necessary. No destination is too far to insure the safety of our Labradoodle puppies. Hopefully you will find our website informative and if you have further questions do not hesitate in contacting us any time. My cell phone is the easiest way to reach me. Marlene Sapp.

The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. 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. The link has been copied! You might also like. Prices for Labrador Retrievers may be influenced by several things. Expect some to be more expensive than others because these canines are grown and raised differently by each breeder. The following are some typical elements that influence the price of a Labrador Retriever puppy. Physical Appearance The yellow Labrador Retriever often commands a more excellent price than the chocolate or black Lab. Labrador Retrievers are available in various hues, including red, yellow, black, chocolate, and Dudley. They can also be categorized as English or American Labradors; the latter is the more reasonably priced canine. Due to their different uses, American Labradors are more commonly employed for fieldwork, whereas English Labs are primarily utilized as show dogs. Click here to learn more. Purebred puppies sprung from a show championship bloodline are unavoidably more expensive than a Lab puppy of pet quality, even though this has little influence on their ability to be loving companions. Although younger canines will cost more, you will get to enjoy them while they are still puppies. On the other hand, an older dog will likely be calmer and cost less money but may have behavioral problems that need to be addressed. Training A puppy will cost more than the usual price if the breeder has previously trained it. Raising a well-behaved dog is also more likely a result. Different breeds require different amounts of sleep, but how much sleep do Labradors need? Even though it is more expensive, this is a better and more ethical choice than purchasing a dog from a backyard breeder or a puppy factory. If you want your puppy to have this certification, be prepared to pay more for a Labrador Retriever. Health Health problems can arise in Labrador Retrievers. The most frequent conditions are progressive retinal atrophy, which causes blindness, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, you should always ask the breeder if they have checked the parents for hip, elbow, or eye issues before purchasing a Labrador puppy. The cost of the puppy will be lower if the pedigree has a history of hip or elbow dysplasia. A reputable breeder will provide health records and certificates for both parents. The puppy will be protected from inheriting progressive retinal atrophy and will have a higher likelihood of having healthy hips and elbows. Because unskilled owners misunderstand how much exercise these working dogs require and cannot exhaust them, American Labradors are more likely to wind up in shelters. An English Lab is unusual to come across at a shelter. That is because they are show dogs and frequently have more seasoned owners. They are also much less energetic, making them a good choice for young families searching for their first dog. Although labs are generally calm and easygoing, a rescue Labrador may not be the best choice for new parents. They may require special attention and instruction because of behavioral problems brought on by previous neglect. Other Factors In general, service dog-trained Labrador Retriever puppies cost much more than regular Lab puppies. An assistance dog must undergo considerable training, which adds significant expenses to its upbringing. To avoid unforeseen costs, ask the breeder specific questions about what is included in the bill. How Much Is a Labrador Puppy? This becomes particularly true if the Lab puppy you intend to buy comes from a line of champions. Labrador Retrievers are a friendly, devoted breed that gets along well with kids. Additionally, labs are very clever, driven, and simple to teach. They are, therefore, excellent dogs for new owners. Particularly in America, it is not difficult to discover Labrador pups for sale. A Labrador can be adopted in various ways, including from dog shelters and breeders. For instance, there are several blends, colors, and types of labs. Click here to find out. However, getting a black Labrador puppy from a top-notch retriever could be pricey. Although yellow labs are not uncommon, because of their high level of popularity, adopting one of these puppies can be expensive. It is less expensive to adopt than to purchase from a breeder. When you purchase from a reputed breeder, you also increase your chances of receiving a healthy puppy. They prepare to move to a permanent home when they are eight weeks old. Before this age, no Chocolate Lab should be sold. Make sure the breeder you choose to get your puppy from is reputable. Avoid puppy mills and pet retailers when purchasing pups at all costs. You must be prepared to pay a little bit more if you want a Silver Lab or charcoal or Champagne. Despite their growing numbers, they are still uncommon, particularly in the UK. This fact has led some people to conclude that breeders only chose to breed this uncommon gene for this purpose. Prices will probably decrease as they grow more widespread, but they might never get to the point where they are comparable to regular labs that adhere to AKC rules. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

Standard colors for Labs are yellow, black and chocolate. Shedding Labs are moderate to heavy shedders. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat shiny. Many Labs will overeat if given the opportunity, so watch their food intake closely. A complete and balanced diet and daily exercise can help prevent weight gain. Other health conditions that may affect Labs include hip and elbow dysplasia, myopathy and heart disorders. Labs may also have a higher risk for certain eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. As with other large breed dogs , Labrador Retrievers are at risk of bloat, a life-threatening condition. Labrador Retriever puppies will thrive on a puppy food specially formulated to meet their unique needs during their first year of life. For information on how much or when to feed your Labrador dog or puppy, explore our feeding articles here. History The Labrador Retriever gets his name from Labrador, Canada, though the breed was developed in 19th-century Newfoundland as a water dog. Originally called St. Early Labs may have been bred with Newfoundlands and other water dogs before a breed standard was formed. Around , Labs were imported to England, where they served as hunting retrievers. The breed disappeared from Newfoundland entirely after government restrictions and various tax laws took effect. The breed was nearly extinct by the late 19th century. The Malmesburys and other English fans who imported the dogs saved the breed from extinction. Explore breeds like the Labrador Retriever. All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. February 21, For Pups With Short Attention Spans… The lovable labrador retriever can grow up into a classic chonkster, but on average labs grow to about inches in height, and pounds in weight, with males being larger than females. Labs love to eat, so if you want your lab to stay in this range, make sure you watch what they eat. From the moment you first laid eyes on your pint-sized furry friend, you knew it was meant to be. One glance at his Labrador puppy dog eyes, floppy velvet ears, and rambunctious spirit and you were a complete goner. Your Labrador Retriever puppy was going to be your new best bud. What you may not have known as you proudly strutted him through your front door is how big he might be a year from now. So exactly how big do Labs get? On average, your lab puppy is about 25 pounds at 12 weeks, give or take a few pounds. During their first year of life, they grow—and fast. But how big do labs get? A male Lab is often slightly taller, at .A male lab weighs around 65—80 pounds due to their slightly larger height and frame. Controlled what now? While the idea of controlling how much they eat may sound rigid, dogs are natural scavengers. As they grow, you can slowly bump up the increments until they reach adulthood. It applies here, too. And unlike cats, who thrive on an all-meat diet, dogs have a more regal palette unless you count the time they tried to eat that questionable blob on the street last week. So after checking for chicken, beef, or other types of meat as the first item on the ingredient label, you can also search for ingredients like vegetables, grains, and fruits. According to the American Kennel Club, each dog has its own distinct dietary needs. The same can be said for labs. Luckily, BARK curates dog food for multiple dog breeds, from small to large and definitely all the ones in between. Luckily, a solid daily dose or two of exercise is exactly what the doctor ordered in regard to maintaining a healthy weight. They can have their cake and eat it too with agility training, which works their mind and body with a fun course containing obstacles like tunnels, seesaws, tire jumps, and more. Your pup can have just as much fun with it—possibly more! Play hide and go treat — Though your dog would happily go bonkers for a rousing game of hide and seek, you can provide them with the ultimate surprise by offering to play hide and go treat from time to time. You can schedule a yearly wellness visit with your vet, where your pooch will be the star of the show. Booster shots — Yearly shots include ones for rabies, canine parvovirus, distemper, and canine hepatitis. With BARK , you can show your lab just how much you love them—with delectable dog food crafted just for them. Whether your Labrador dog is a yellow lab, chocolate lab, silver lab, English lab, white lab, or any other type, they deserve only the best dog food. Sources: Pawlicy. Getting Started. When Should I Call the Vet? Vocality level 4 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament Few breeds so richly deserve their popularity as does the Labrador Retriever. When trained, the breed is obedient and amiable and tolerates the antics of children, other dogs, and other pets. The Lab is a calm house dog, playful yard dog, and intense field dog, all on the same day. Labs are eager to please, enjoys learning, and excel in obedience. It is a powerful breed that loves to swim and retrieve. Labradors need daily physical and mental challenges to keep occupied. A bored Lab can get into trouble! Upkeep Labradors are active and sociable dogs. They need daily exercise, preferably in the form of retrieving and swimming. Owners with swimming pools either must fence them out or be prepared to share the pool with dogs. The Lab coat sheds water easily. Weekly brushing is needed to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, OCD, obesity, patellar luxation Minor concerns: cataract, CPRA, hot spots, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: diabetes, entropion, distichiasis, tricuspid valve dysplasia, centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced collapse Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, exercise-induced collapse DNA , centronuclear myopathy , knee Life span: 10—12 years History The original Labradors were all-purpose water dogs originating in Newfoundland, not Labrador. Not only did the breed not originate in Labrador, but it also was not originally called the Labrador Retriever. These dogs—medium-sized black dogs with close hair—not only retrieved game but also retrieved fish, pulled small fishing boats through icy water and helped the fisherman in any task involving swimming. Eventually, the breed died out in Newfoundland in large part because of a heavy dog tax. However, a core of Labradors had been taken to England in the early s, and it is from these dogs, along with crosses to other retrievers, that the breed continued. It was also in England that the breed earned its reputation as an extraordinary retriever of upland game. Initially, black labs were favored over yellow or chocolate colors. By the early s, the other colors had become more accepted. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in and remains so today. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. Having their puppies is like icing on the cake. We absolutely LOVE having puppies around to play with and love! We don't even own a kennel. My husband always had Labrador Retrievers growing up, so it was only natural that he would want his children to also have a Lab to love. Enough for all our kids to play with and love. We are VERY blessed to be able to homeschool our children, as being home with our children and pets is extremely important to us. We couldn't imagine a life without Labs! Our Labs sleep in our home and run freely on our property.NO kennels for our sweet fur kids. They are family and family likes to be with family. Boarding includes crate and leash training, continued socialization, as well as early potty training. This works great for families that are not home all day when their puppy is still young. It is a wonderful way to stay connected with siblings and other BoulderCrest Lab lovers. Inquire for more info. These guys have had all their puppy shots and are crate trained. They sleep quietly from about 11 pm - 8 am and are learning basic obedience. They both had the wonderful English Lab temperment. She is playful and fun and would love to be with an active family. She is a girl who knows what she wants.She will love all the attention and love that her new family will offer and will give it right back.

In this section, we will discuss these considerations, as well as provide useful tips that will make the process of buying a dog litter box easier. It is difficult for you to take your dog outside due to mobility issues. You want to start house-training your puppy. You want to use it during times of inclement weather. You have a dog who has trouble controlling its bodily functions. You are away from home for most of the day. Types of Dog Litter Boxes Conventional Litter box These are recognizable litter boxes, as well as those that are simple in design and use. Certain ones can be used for cats and other animals as well, but what makes this useful for a dog is the three high sidewalls and a side that is a low entry. They are not filled with traditional litter but instead, paper pellets made out of recycled newspaper. The conventional litter box is usually more affordable and easy to clean and comes in a variety of sizes. On the downside, you will have to keep changing the pellets out so they do not become odorous from urine. Plastic Crates These have a floating grate along the bottom, where urine drains through onto an absorbent pad and any solid waste will sit on the top which will have to be removed and discarded. If they have sides, they are usually not that high. Real Grass Dogs love to do their business on real grass, so these litter boxes provide a patch of live grass that is held in place by a low-walled cardboard box. The box will most likely be lined to prevent liquids from saturating the cardboard, allowing it to last longer. You do have to water the grass to keep it lush, and it will last approximately one to two weeks, depending on how often your dog uses it. You will have to clean the grass of the solid waste, but the urine will be absorbed by the dirt. These systems tend to be on the pricier end. Considerations Cost: We always want to provide the best for our pets, but most of us are on a budget and need to take into account the expense of a dog litter box, as well as the continued cost of replacing grass, pellets, or absorbent pads. Dog size: The size of your dog will determine the size of the box you need to purchase. Dogs like to circle before they go to the bathroom so they will need adequate space to move around. Most systems are ideal for small to medium-sized dogs. Materials: You will want a system that is durable and holds up to frequent use. If you have a puppy who likes to chew, keep the type of material in mind. Design: If you have a puppy or a smaller breed, a high-sided box may be difficult for them to get in and out of. Some surfaces are easier to wipe down than others, and with certain systems, there are options to purchase liners separately. Tips A dog litter box should be functional, hygienic, and comfortable for your dog to use. Consider features such as drainage holes and waste trays. Some dogs may not like to use a litter box, especially if they were not introduced at a young age. If your dog prefers to urinate by lifting a leg, it may miss the litter box entirely. Training guides are beneficial when introducing a box to your dog. Did you know the border collie, the Havanese, and the miniature schnauzer are some of the easiest dogs to train? We offer complete guides for these breeds — check them out below:. Also, we listed 12 of our favorite dog litter boxes in every group to help you narrow down your choices. But first, we are going to talk about whether you should use a dog litter box and how to choose the right one for your pup. There is nothing wrong with letting your pup go to the bathroom when he needs to instead of waiting for you to get home every day. Here are some situations when it would be a good idea: Pup Parents Who Have Mobility Issues For those who have trouble getting around, letting your pooch in and out to go potty can be a tremendous chore. For example, if you are recovering from an illness or injury, you may have to limit your dog to once a day, which is not good for his bladder or kidneys. Dogs with Bladder Trouble or Aging Dogs Another issue that can be a problem is if your older pup cannot get around as well as he used to. Or if he is injured or sick. Also, some dogs have trouble controlling their bladder for certain health or emotional reasons. A litter box, in this case, is furfect too. Puppies Being Housebroken Training your new puppy to control when and where he relieves himself is also a great time to use a dog litter box. Rather than using a puppy pad, which can leak or move around, get stepped on, etc. Bad Weather Areas If you happen to be in an area where it snows or rains often, you may not want your pooch going in and out. This is a good time to pull out the dog litter box and let him relieve himself in the safety and comfort of his own home. Those Who Live in Apartments Dog parents who live in apartments are at a disadvantage as far as how to let their pooch in and out to relieve himself. For instance, if you happen to live on the 2nd or 22nd floor and all you have is a balcony, you would have to take the stairs or elevator down and then find a place to take your pup where he can go. A dog litter box would be pawfect. There are many different kinds, from a small plastic box just like for cats to the huge extravagant 4-foot porch potty with a sprinkler system. Here are some of the choices according to our preference, from the most recommended to the least. Your pup will love the smell and may even decide to eat some. However, these are typically just a small pad of grass, and since it is real, it will end up dying eventually, meaning you will need another one every few weeks. Artificial Grass Patches: A patch of synthetic grass is our second choice. Real grass may be a good idea for some pet parents, but having to replace it once or twice a month can add up. Artificial turf works great for football and baseball fields so it will be just as good for most pups. It will not die and you can wash and reuse it over and over. Puppy Pad Holders: Because puppy pads are just large pieces of paper, they are not ideal for many reasons. They leak, move around, and your dog can tear them up. If you have a puppy pad holder, it is much easier and cleaner. Plastic Grates: Plastic grates are another option because your puppy can pee on them and it will go down onto the puppy pad underneath. His feet stay nice and dry and all you have to do is replace the pad once a day. However, this is not optimal for poop, which does not go through the grates. Plastic boxes: Just like a regular cat litter box, these plastic boxes work the same way but without the kitty litter. Some have higher walls, others have recycled paper pellets or other natural substances to soak up the urine, but you will have to change it often to avoid major odors. You also need to check how easy it is to clean, the cost of maintaining it, and how good the warranty is. A litter box for a Great Dane, for example, would be massive and hard to keep clean. The average dog litter box is about 20 inches long and 18 inches wide. If your pup is much larger than that, you may want to reconsider. The Mechanism: You have to clean some boxes every time your dog uses them, while others you can clean once a day. They even have a few that are self-cleaning! The ones with natural grass need to be replaced often, and if he poos on it, you will need to pick it up and dispose of it. Others use a grate with a pad underneath, and some just hold puppy pads. Material: You have to decide whether a natural grass, artificial turf, plastic grate, actual litter box, or puppy pad holder is best. This depends on both you and your dog. If he will not go on anything but real grass and you are determined to keep him inside, you will have to get real grass. If you have ever watched your pup out in the yard digging holes, the real grass dog litter box may not be right for him. It will not last very long if he digs into his new patch of grass like he would in the yard. You need something durable that he is not going to dig holes in or chew up. Ease of cleaning: The self-cleaning or disposable litter boxes are the easiest to clean, although they are also the most costly. Puppy pad holders are easy since all you have to do is toss and replace the pad. Plastic turf, real litter boxes, and grates have to be cleaned often. Cost Of Maintenance: The most expensive dog litter box is the one that you have to replace often real grass. You will need to buy a lot of litter for the litter box types. And for the others, it is just a matter of replacing a pad or washing off the plastic. Warranty: Many of those made with real grass or the disposable ones will not have a warranty because they are only made to last a couple of weeks. The plastic ones often come with a day warranty but not much longer than that. After all, your dog will be urinating and defecating in it so returning it would be unsanitary. Our Review For 12 Best Dog Litter Boxes After reviewing more than 30 dog litter boxes using our above mentioned criteria, we chose 12 that we think are some of the best on the market with the most important features. We even classified them to help you narrow down the choices. Features: Spacious interior, ramp entry, built-in handle Good For: Older and mobility-limited cats The same features that keep dogs out of the litter box can make it difficult for older cats to access it. This dome-shaped litter box features a spacious interior and a gently sloping internal ramp entry perfect for small kittens and senior cats alike. With its .The ramp consumes some of the litter bed area, but the domed top may make this model feel less confining for claustrophobic cats than the standard covered litter box. While toy-breed dogs may be able to walk into this litter box just as easily as your cat, the design seems to be effective in most cases. Puppies sometimes mimic this behavior, though most grow out of it once they discover that food tastes much better. But why do some adult dogs eat cat poop straight from the litter box? And should you be worried about it? Dog breath is bad enough, but snacking from the little box ups the grossness factor. Eating cat poop also comes with the potential to expose your dog to harmful bacteria and parasites — some of which can be transmitted to humans, like toxoplasmosis or salmonella. The bits of cat litter a dog might consume along with the feces can be problematic as well. Changing your litter box could be the key to keeping your dog out. High Sides Basic litter pans have short walls which enable your cat to access the box from all sides. With no barrier to entry, however, these litter boxes offer optimal snacking opportunities for your dog. High sides make it a little bit harder for your dog to get at the goodies inside the box. Most high-sided litter boxes have lower entry points for cat accessibility. This might be enough for some dogs to reach in, so you may need to combine a high-sided litter box with other solutions. Cover Enclosed or covered litter boxes may be more effective against large dogs than high-sided boxes. While covered litter boxes are great for odor and scatter control, some cats dislike the feeling of being confined while they do their business. Translucent tops and clear doors may help mitigate this concern. Top-Entry Design Top-entry litter boxes combine the security of a covered litter box with high dog-stopping sides. Rather than stepping into the litter box, your cat drops down through an opening in the lid. Consider the interior space when selecting a top-entry litter box, as these tend to be more confining than open-style litter pans. Big breeds like Maine Coons may find top-entry litter boxes uncomfortable. The downside of automatic litter boxes is that they tend to be expensive. The longer the delay before cleaning, the more opportunity your dog will have to sneak in and steal a snack. Ultimately, the best way to prevent your dog from eating cat poop is to scoop the litter box before it becomes an issue. Top-entry litter boxes and models with high sides can be a challenge for kittens and older cats — especially those suffering from arthritis. Some cats feel claustrophobic in covered litter boxes while others find the added privacy comforting. A baby gate raised a few inches off the floor will keep your dog at bay while your cat can slink underneath. Help us do better! Was this article helpful and relevant? Yes What can you say about this article? I am completely satisfied, I found useful information and tips in this article Article was somewhat helpful, but could be improved Want to share more? I'd like to receive regular cat care tips, news, and more. Send the Feedback Thank You for the feedback! We work to make the world a better place for cats, and we're getting better for you. Kate is also a blogger for a number of organic and natural food companies as well as a columnist for several pet magazines. Thoughtful features, like the night light What We Don't Like Takes up a lot of space Expensive The Whisker Litter-Robot 4 is not merely an iterative improvement on our former "Best Overall" automatic litter box, the Litter-Robot 3 Connect, but a comprehensive upgrade. In lab testing—and throughout weeks of follow-up testing with real cats in a home setting—our testers expressed repeated admiration for various features, design improvements, and their overall experience using the Litter-Robot 4. It's hard not to boggle at the litter robot's high price, but Whisker has pulled out all the stops to justify the premium cost with a premium user experience. It begins with an incredibly easy setup since the Litter-Robot 4 arrives fully assembled in the box—all you need to do is plug it in and download the Whisker app which is synced using a QR code on the back of the device. But the first thing you're likely to notice about the Litter-Robot 4 is its design, which stacks a wide-open, circular entrance atop a more square base. It's a significant improvement on the previous version of the Litter-Robot, which has a narrow entryway more than five inches narrower. The entrance to the litter box looks inviting, even intriguing, with our home tester confirming that cats are more than willing to interact with the futuristic-looking device. After your cat uses the bathroom, the interior sphere performs a slow barrel roll, dumping the litter through a sieve that pulls out solid waste and returns the clean litter back to its original position. The clumps of kitty litter are then dumped into a reservoir tray underneath. Sensors in the entrance track both motion and weight, ensuring that the Litter-Robot never begins a cleaning cycle with a cat inside. This allows it to measure how much waste is sifted, and even create custom data for multiple cats, since it can differentiate them by weight. The only precaution needed is for kittens under 3 pounds, but you can disable the automatic sifter and instead use a button to manually clean until your cat is grown up enough to register. The control panel on the Litter-Robot 4 features big, colorful buttons, though the wide variety of settings and cleaning options can make for a bit of a learning curve. In addition to a power button, there are buttons for "Cycle," "Reset," "Empty" and WiFi "Connect," with each button performing multiple functions. For example, the Cycle button initiates a cleaning, or you can hold down the button for three seconds to activate a "Sleep Mode," ensuring a cleaning cycle won't be activated for eight hours. A big, friendly light bar beneath the buttons delivers a wide range of information, indicating when a function has been paused, or even when a cat has spent too long inside the machine. It's pretty intuitive, but a little overwhelming at first—one tester mistakenly emptied all of the litter, rather than initiating a standard clean. Cleaning the Litter-Robot 4 was also a cinch. The bags used in the reservoir are tall enough that even an over-stuffed reservoir is easy to empty—simply lift up the edges of the bag and use that extra height to tie it off. There's a QR code on the bottom of the reservoir that provides a retail link for easily purchasing new bags, smell filters, and even litter but it doesn't require proprietary litter, and worked great with our generic, store-bought litter. Photoshopped Indoor Potty Systems This Omeuamigo potty tray may seem like a good option at first glance until you realize that the featured pictures are photoshopped. Additionally, this product has very few reviews, and the ones that do exist are fairly negative. Some dog litter boxes come with a material inside for absorbing liquids while others require you to select the filler of your choice. Litter: The traditional choice of cat owners, regular litter can also be used with doggos. You can sift litter, making it easy to clean, but dogs will often end up tracking it around the house. And some puppers may even be inclined to chew or eat it. We really only include it to be thorough. Consider the size of your dog. Choose between disposable vs reusable options. Think about how you will clean the litter box. Figure out your budget. However, if you do have some disposable income to throw at the problem, you can consider fancy options, such as self-cleaning models. Some of the most common situations in which they may help include: Owners with mobility issues. Dogs with bladder-control issues. Some dogs simply have more trouble holding it than others — particularly small breeds with tiny bladders. While belly bands may provide some help with this issue for male dogs, an indoor bathroom facility will often be more convenient to use. Owners living in high-rise apartments. Even if you have an elevator, bathroom trips are still quite an ordeal. Young puppies going through the house-breaking process. Not only do they help teach your dog that there are right and wrong places to relieve themselves, they also help contain the inevitable messes that accompany the process. Owners who live in areas with inclement weather. If you live in an area with long, cold winters or sweltering summers, you may find a litter box or some other type of indoor potty to be very helpful. Owners who are away from the home for long periods of time. While it is never ideal to leave your dog alone for lengthy periods of time, it is sometimes unavoidable. Indoor potty spots help keep your dog from having to sit cross-legged all day long, waiting for you to get home. Dogs who are recovering from illness or injury. If your dog has been battling illness or recovering from an injury, your vet may recommend keeping him as calm, quiet and still as possible. By utilizing an indoor bathroom of some type, you can reduce the number of trips your dog needs to take outdoors. Dogs who are afraid of the outdoors. If your is dog scared of going outside , you may want to try an indoor potty while trying to build his confidence. It is also worth mentioning that most litter-box-style products work better with smaller dogs than larger dogs. Nevertheless, many owners of dogs in the to pound range find indoor bathrooms effective. Having a backup potty option can provide you with valuable peace of mind and is worth considering if you have the space. In the event that your dog does need to go inside, at least it will be in a contained space. Most litter boxes and indoor bathrooms are appropriate for 1 or 2, although some handle poop better than others. Keep in mind that litter boxes are not designed to completely eliminate trips outside — they are designed to reduce the number of trips you must take. Accordingly, most owners still take their dog out to poop once or twice a day, and primarily use the litter box as a place to tinkle. Unfortunately, dog urine can contain leptospirosis bacteria which is zoonotic, meaning it could be passed on to people and other species. Make sure your pooch is safe and secure so that you can focus your attention on thoroughly addressing the mess. Remove as much waste as possible. Be sure to check out some of these dog poop disposal ideas before you settle on a solution. Immediately cleaning up doo-doo is doubly essential if your dog has a bad habit of eating dog poop — yikes! Rinse down the potty with hot water. Rinse or wipe out any residue using hot water. Make sure you get rid of disposable potties as needed. Puddle Spread to your floor? Here are some strategies that might make it easier for Fido to go inside. Bring the outside in. If possible, it may be helpful to bring this plant inside and place it on top of the indoor potty. It could be enough of a cue for your furry friend. Place the potty near the door. If your pooch is used to going outside, placing the indoor potty near the door may make for an easier transition for Fido. You can also try bringing the indoor potty outside, have your dog go on the potty outside, and then move the potty inside. A potty trained pooch may not understand that he can go on the indoor dog potty. You could try leashing up your pooch and taking him on a walk around your home, only to stop for sniffing by the dog potty. Praise your pooch! Whenever you do catch your dog using the indoor dog potty, be sure to reward with lots of praise and treats. Try another texture. Some dogs may naturally take to one potty type over another. You may have to tinker with different potty styles before landing on the ideal solution for your furry friend. Typically a bathroom in the main portion of your house is the best option. What kind of litter is best for dogs? Some pet parents have success with paper pellets, while others prefer clay litter or dog-safe wood shavings. Try out small batches of litter to see what works best for your dog. Is litter box training a dog a good idea? Litter training your dog is helpful if you often work long hours or if your dog struggles to hold his bladder. An indoor pottying area like a litter box offers your pup a place to safely and comfortably do his business without ruining your floors or furniture. Is there a dog version of a litter box? Yes, there are several dog litter boxes available, ranging from the standard bins you may envision for a cat to those that are more pad-like in design. Each has its own list of pros and cons to consider. The most important aspect is to choose a dog litter box that works for your pup to ensure he actually uses it. Can dogs learn to use a litter box? Yes, dogs can learn to use a litter box like a cat. When he potties in the litter box, offer praise. Lather, rinse, and repeat until he happily trots over on his own to do his business every time. How did it work for you? Was your dog comfortable using it, or did he fail to understand the point? Like it? Share it!

With their pointy bat ears, Frenchies are adorable miniature bulldogs with extremely flat muzzles. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support and skin health, and aid with digestion to help cut down on their not-so-adorable gas during puppyhood. Royal Canin French Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed French Bulldog puppy. This exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your French Bulldog puppy, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system to keep their bodies growing strong. Exclusive nutrients reinforce the skin barrier for healthy skin. And a combination of highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources supports healthy digestion to help decrease flatulence and unpleasant stool odors. Once your French Bulldog puppy is over 12 months old, transition them to Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult dry dog food for precise nutrition into their adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Add to basket Description For your French Bulldog puppy, growth is an essential stage of life. It is the time of new encounters, discoveries, and physical changes. It also contains highly beneficial prebiotics. The combination of these nutrients helps to support good digestive health, as well as a healthy balance of intestinal flora. When your dog has a healthy balance of intestinal flora, this contributes to good stool quality. When your dog has healthy skin, this also has a positive effect on the health of its coat. Because this breed has a particularly brachycephalic jaw, the shape and size of this kibble is specially adapted to make it easier for your puppy to pick it up. Additionally, the texture of the kibble encourages your puppy to chew it before swallowing. Complete feed for dogs - Specially for French Bulldog puppies - Up to 12 months old. Feeding Guide Delivery Delivery When you order online at www. Order before 4pm Monday to Friday for same day dispatch. Please note: Deliveries are taking longer than normal and we recommend placing your orders as early as possible to avoid disappointment. See our full delivery policy for more information. Returns For easy hassle free returns, we have a 14 day returns policy on any items ordered through our website and returned to us in their original condition. To return a product, please contact us first on 01 or enquiries cuddlespetstore. Should you wish to exchange your items for an equivalent item, eg clothing in a different size, we will exchange this for you on receipt of the original item. Normal shipping rates apply to the replacement item. Where the replacement item is a different price we will either refund the difference or contact you to arrange for a top up payment. Replacement is subject to availability Where you wish to return an item for a full refund then we will refund you the amount paid within 7 days of receipt of goods. Where you wish to return a faulty item the procedure is the same as a refund or exchange. We may also require you to send us a digital photograph of the item for initial assessment. When an item is found to be faulty or needs to be returned, through an error on our behalf, we will refund the cost of posting it back to us or arrange for courier collection. Refund, replacement or repair is subject to assessment of fault. This does not affect your statutory rights. Reviews This product has not yet been reviewed Review this product.