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Want to be added to our waiting list for future litters? You might also be interested in our Upcoming Litters. Adopting an American Bulldog puppy is a huge responsibility and we screen our buyers to the best of our ability to ensure the happiness and health of our babies before they are placed. We want this experience to be the best for all parties involved. Having said that, I rarely sell our puppies with breeding rights, we prefer loving pet homes for our babies. If your looking for an excellent companion puppy to love, we might have your future addition here waiting for you! So, what is included with the purchase of your puppy? Shipping available at buyers expense. At least 2 well puppy health screenings by a licensed veterinarian. Current age appropriate vaccines. A negative fecal examination screening for intestinal parasites. Pyrantel, Panacur, Marquis, Metronidazole. A starter bag of food to help get your puppy off to the best start. Weekly photo updates if you have adopted placed a deposit on a puppy before the age of 8 weeks. After you have paid your deposit, we will contact you asap to schedule your pick up date and time. Please call or Contact Us with any questions! About the American Bulldog The American Bulldog is a muscular utility type of dog historically used as all-around working dogs on the farm. First record of these great dogs goes back to the 17th century, predominantly used in areas such as guardians, stock dog, and catch dogs on small farms. Almost extinct around World War II, the breed has now made a notable comeback due to the passion and mission of John D. Johnson and Alan Scott. At a turning point in the revitalization of the breed, Johnson and Scott took different paths in their breeding program and what they felt was the true or original American Bulldog. That resulted in the two types of the American Bulldog. The Scott type which is also known as the Standard type, and the Johnson type which is the Classic type or more bully type. Both are wonderful specimens of the canine world and we have both types here at Big Rock Bulldogs. In our opinion it is the perfect combination, that results in an overall well rounded AB! You get the size, strength, athleticism, and impressive stature with a hybrid dog. The Johnson adds bulk, and muscle; the Scott type adds leg, longer snout for improved breathing ability which in turn allows for better heat and exercise tolerance. Our very first AB, Diesel, is a Scott type. He was the reason we fell in love with this breed! They are the less bully type with longer noses and a less bulky stature but still packed with plenty of muscle. Diesel is no longer used in our breeding program but remains our steadfast guardian and loyal companion! We continue to see his offspring in litters produced from his working days. His legacy will live on as long as we are producing these amazing dogs! This breed, no matter which type, has become a popular family dog that is known for its natural instinct for family protection, especially among women and children. They are also a favorite choice among hog hunters in the feral hog crisis used as catch dogs. They compete in sports such as Schutzhund, Iron dog competitions, dog obedience, and more. These dogs are loyal, confident, gentle and generally very friendly. They do however have a strong ingrained desire to guard their family. Therefore, socialization is particularly important with this breed! When well-raised and well-loved, this breed in our eyes is the best large breed dog on the planet! Like any relationship, you get out of it what you put in it. They require your time and training as any dog does to develop into a confident, loving, family companion. They are curious, playful, and unlike their other bulldog relatives, they have a strong affinity for water and swimming, and do quite well at it! Environmental conditions are something you always need to be aware of with your American Bulldog! Due to the short nose especially with the Johnson type , they are not able to move air as efficiently as their longer-nosed canine compadres. They do not have the ability to cool themselves well by panting, and overheating can be life threatening! When the weather is cool and pleasant, let them romp and run to their hearts content! The Scott type is less likely to have heat related complications, but we still advise you use caution all the same. The American Bulldogs jaws are impressively strong and can easily tear apart flimsy poorly constructed toys. We are fans of Nylabone, Jolly balls and Kong toys. Also, toys with a lot of stuffing other than ones made for heavy chewers will just become a mess of white fluff on your floor about 5 minutes after you give it to them. Not fun to pick up, I know from experience! Always stay away from anything raw hide! There are so many options out there that are safer and healthier, spend your money on those! Lastly, your American Bulldog puppy should have regular visits to your veterinarian throughout all life stages. If you are adopting a young puppy, there will be more vaccines needed to complete the series for protection from deadly viruses. Routine preventative care is a must! Better to prevent a problem than treat one I always say! Thank you for taking time to read about our American Bulldogs! Exercise Grooming In the past, the English bulldog was used by foreign immigrants who moved to South America and brought their dogs with them. The breed, however, became close to extinction after the second world war. Some breeders, John D. Johnson, and Alan Scott kept infusing several bulldogs together in the bid to breed the American Bulldog while monitoring its health and capabilities. Today, the American bulldog is completely rid of the fear of being extinct and has become one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. The American bulldog is many sizes larger than the English Bulldog; however, they are quite similar when it comes to their temperament. It is basically a huge, cuddly, lap dog that loves children and is very affectionate. It is brave, confident and extremely loyal to its owners. They can be quite reserved when around strangers as they like to mark their territories. When trained from a young age, the American Bulldog will display an impressive level of intelligence. They are not so friendly with other strange dogs and mostly like to keep to themselves. As earlier stated, the American bulldog is a fun-loving, happy dog that thrives in a family setting. The perfect environment for this breed would be a home with a large backyard that is well fenced-in. Since they are very energetic and must be kept active, it is imperative to their growth that they have ample space to run around during the day. This is crucial for their mental and physical well-being. For dog lovers who live in apartments, the American bulldog might not be the best option for them. This is because there is inadequate space for them and being left alone would adversely affect their mental health. They can also become very irritable and destructive if left alone for long periods as they need constant mental and physical stimulation. The American Bulldog needs about two hours of outdoor exercise on a daily basis. It goes without saying that this breed is not suitable for people who work many hours every day. This dog breed requires basic physical and mental stimulation like jogging, walking, chasing balls, playing fetch, farm work, agility, and basic obedience exercises. Due to the temperament of the American Bulldog, it has to get as much exercise preferably in the outdoors. If its exercise requirements are not consistently met, this dog breed will take out its frustration in your home by chewing apart and basically destroying everything it comes in contact with while running around. The American Bulldog has quite a short coat with a minimized length and this feature makes it easy to groom. Brushing their coats weekly is usually enough when it comes to grooming the American Bulldog as they do not shed a lot. They also need thorough baths weekly or as needed as this will keep the shedding in check. Our American Bulldog puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. American Bulldogs love routine and will adapt to an exercise and grooming routine if the owner enforces it perfectly. As loyal dogs, they love to please their owners but will only obey upon frequent reinforcements. Do American Bulldogs shed a lot? Since they do not have a lot of fur, they do not shed a lot and owners will not have a lot of hair to clean up, unlike many other dog breeds. Why do American Bulldogs have webbed feet? This is mainly due to genetics and is not a cause for concern. Should American Bulldogs be spayed? Many vets advise that American Bulldog owners should ensure their pets are neutered or spayed when it is between four and nine months. How often should American Bulldogs be fed? The American bulldog has a very large appetite in its formative years. They must, therefore, be fed very often about four times daily and in double portions when they are puppies right until they turn four. Are American Bulldogs a food fit in families? The American bulldog will fit right into your family. They love kids and tend to gravitate towards them. Do American Bulldogs have common health problems? A lot of the health problems experienced by American bulldogs are mostly genetic and do not affect the entire breed. These ailments could range from the kidney to thyroid disorders and a lot more. What is the American Bulldogs life expectancy? The American bulldog has an average lifespan ranging from ten to fifteen years. What is the American Bulldogs average size? The average American Bulldog can grow to 58kg for males and 41kg for females. However, it is important that their diets are closely monitored to keep them from getting overweight. How tall do American Bulldogs get? The male American bulldog can grow as tall as 71cm while its female counterpart can grow up to 61cm. If you want a loyal, smart and incredibly active dog, then the American Bulldog is the perfect fit for you. Are you interested in purchasing a American Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot. You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. German Shepherds may also need professional grooming. To hel.What size crate do you need for a German Shepherd? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health i.Are German Shepherds easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to.Show more Are German Shepherds good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. German Shepherd Dogs Dogs for Adoption - Urgent case German Shepherd Puppies and Dogs looking for homes "The one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog. The two breeds most at risk are GSD's and Staffies. Their crime - to be surplus to requirement. Unwanted and unloved. They have the same right to a nice home as younger dogs. She is good with children but unknown with dogs due to lack of socialisation and a no to cats. She is housetrained and travels well in the car. Our assessor found her to be a lovely and friendly dog who is sadly not being walked and therefore pulls on the lead. She is in desperate need of a new home where she will be stimulated and exercised but in return you will have a loving and affectionate dog! Zoey - Staffs This lovely girl is 4 year old Zoey who is in need of a new home. Sadly, Zoey's owner has been unable to exercise her so she is a lively girl, she will bark when people come to the home but our assessor found her to be very friendly and Zoey certainly enjoyed a belly rub or two. She is so eager to please, our assessor took her out and found she would not stray far and came back immediately, excellent obedience. She loves to play with her ball, has no food aggression, sleeps in her crate and travels well. Has previously lived with a male dog but did dominate him and currently lives with a cat but if allowed will chase it; due to her excitable nature it would be best not to rehome with younger children. She is no longer up to date with her vaccinations and has not been spayed or micro-chipped. Zoey is a very much loved dog but sadly not given the time an energetic dog like her needs, she deserves a new loving home where she will enjoy the exercise and stimulation she so desperately needs. Benson - Suffolk Benson is a 1yr old neutered male. He was rehomed by GSDR a few months ago but has returned as there have been changes within the family circumstances, and they can no longer cope with him. Benson has become over protective of his current owner and hence has issues with other dogs when out walking. He needs a firm, experienced owner who will teach him boundaries and acceptable behaviour. This young dog will blossom into a loyal friend with the right guidance. Shiloh - west mids This poor little sad girl is 3 year old Shiloh who is up to date with her vaccinations, is micro-chipped and spayed. She is a very nervous young dog and takes time to settle when visitors arrive but is exceedingly affectionate to her people. She is in desperate need of a home where the new owner will preferably not have any other pets or young children and will be able to devote the time and dedication to this very loving dog. Blue 3 year old entire handsome white German Shepherd who is currently in foster care due to previous owners lack of confidence to control and train. Unfortunately Blue suffers from fear aggression and tries to nip and frighten anyone he first meets but the foster carer can already see improvement day to day and Blue is beginning to trust humans again and be more relaxed and settled within their home. With patience and time preferably the only pet and no children Blue should make a fabulous pet for an experienced GSD home. Micro-chipped, vaccinated and medically fit. Saber Very fit and lively 10 year old, entire. Loves to play and cuddles. Unfortunately due to family constraints Saber is living in a very confined space and left for long periods of time. He has lived with a child but due to his size it would be best to place him with older ones, can live with a steady dog but a definite no to cats!! He was originally found on the streets as a stray and his previous owner spent a lot of time in training him and received a lot of certificates, he even went to work with his owner in the office. We were informed he needed careful introduction to new people he meets but he is now in kennels and has met so many people and staff and has not been an issue; in fact they all adore him. Anyone with experience, looking for a large dog, look no further, Frank is your dog!! Although he currently lives with young children it is advised due to his excitable behaviour and size he is rehomed with much older children, he has not been socialised with other dogs but our assessor said that with time, effort and the right owner he will be fine with them but a definite no to cats. He has been neutered and micro-chipped but his vaccinations are now out of date. Although he never went to puppy class he knows basic commands but gets distracted, with an experienced owner he will make a fantastic dog who is in desperate need of stimulation and exercise. Sadly, as in many of these cases, the breeder was only interested in the money and not the long term welfare of the dog; Rocky has become too much for his current family and are unable to give him the time and stimulation a fabulous dog like him requires. Can you? Tala - Notts This lovely lad is 2 year old Tala who is up to date with his vaccinations and entire. He currently lives with children but would be best placed with much older, more experienced ones, loves to play with other dogs but a definite no to cats. Tala will need firm handling and will need to know who is the leader certainly not him! He is housetrained, travels well and will make a fabulous dog in the right home where he will be stimulated and allowed the chance to have a good run out in the fields. Camy - Lou Camy Lou is a beautiful 5yr old spayed bitch. She is a calm and friendly dog in the house. She loves her walks, being outside and also likes swimming so can be a little excitable when she thinks she is about to go out. Camy Lou has had a rough start to life. Her current owners rescued her a year ago. She was in quite a sorry state but with time and patience they have got her to where she is today. She is insured and vaccinated. Camy Lou is great with people but she suffers from toy aggression. Camy Lou responds to basic commands and has a good recall unless she is distracted by a stick or toy. Her current owners love her dearly but are sadly unable to keep her as she attacked one of their other dogs, while in the home, because of a stick. This gorgeous girl has a lot of love to give and would benefit from an experienced GSD owner with no other pets and no children. Layla - Norfolk Layla is a lovely 2yr old bitch in desperate need of some love and attention. She was being kept in a run down, outside kennel with straw as her only comfort. She is quite underweight and has little muscle tone on her back end. This will improve once she is being fed and exercised more regularly. Her owner is seriously ill and has moved away to be with his family leaving Layla to be looked after by a man, who was trying to help the owner out, but who has struggled due to his own workload and other commitments. This young girl needs time, patience and most of all love to steer her back onto the road to good health. She would ideally suit an experienced owner without young children. Willow - Nuneaton Let me introduce you to the utterly gorgeous, big boy Willow. He is 4 years old 5 in Jul , entire and not vaccinated. Due to his size and strength it would be best to rehome him to a family with much older teenagers or no children at all, definitely no cats and needs to be carefully introduced to other dogs. Our assessor did find him to be a little lively but soon calmed down and Willow enjoyed a fuss and a cuddle. Willow is very large dog and has not be shown any ground rules and therefore his new owners need to work with him but in return they will have a fabulous dog! Buddy - West Mids This lovely dog is 8 years young Buddy who is entire and vaccinations are overdue. He currently lives with a family, a cat, loves to play with other dogs in the park and previously lived with dogs in a former home. The family are no longer able to keep Buddy due to his food aggression and behaviour towards various members of the family. However, our assessor found him to be a lovely, friendly dog who was energetic and this was no doubt due to not getting enough exercise or stimulation. In the right home he would make a fabulous addition and would suit an active family preferably with older children due to his excitable nature. Petra Petra is 5 and unspayed. She has never lived with children but was fine with young children she met out. Petra does not like little dogs or cats, and she will stand up for herself with larger dominating dogs. She has been living with a male GSD and her two 5 month daughters. Friendly with people who are friendly to her. Her recall is good as long as she is not distracted. Petra does have a joint problem on her right rear leg and will struggle if walked more than about 4 miles in a day. Poor Petra has had a horrible start in life. The owner used to beat his wife and no doubt at some stag Petra too. She is very nervous of lighters and matches! She will need confident and understanding owners. Current owner rehoming as mobility issues walking all of the dogs! Louie - Coventry This lovely friendly lad is 8 years young Louie. He is neutered, vaccinated and house trained. He is sadly overweight due to lack of exercise but when our assessor took him out she found he eventually walked well on the lead after initially pulling and responded well to commands but could not test his recall. A definite no to cats and dogs he will dominate them so would be best placed as an only dog and to further socialise with other dogs. Louie is a water baby, loves to swim but doesn't like to go out of his depth, travels well in the car but hates fireworks! A friendly dog who really enjoys the attention he deserves and needs a home soon! Bruno - Cambs Bruno is a longhaired 4yr old entire male. He currently lives in a barn but is chained up as he keeps escaping and has killed the neighbours prize chickens. The neighbours have threatened legal action if Bruno is not re-homed soon. While chained Bruno shows aggression and will nip, but when off the chain he is a completely different character and is very friendly. He responded to simple commands and took treats from our assessor. Bruno is good with children, other dogs and cats. We are unsure if he is house trained but he does not mess in his barn. He is not currently walked and so will need some lead training. He shows no aggression when allowed to be free and will make a great addition to the right home. This young man just needs a chance to be a pet rather than a yard dog. Bailey - Suffolk Bailey is a friendly 5yr old neutered male. He has shown some aggression issues in his current home but he is being left to his own devices for long periods and is under stimulated. Our volunteer found Bailey to be very social and saw no signs of aggression. He needs an experienced GSD owner that can spend the time needed to channel Baileys attentions in a positive direction. Can you offer Bailey the home he so urgently needs? Jake - Suffolk Jake is a 3yr old neutered male. He is currently being left alone for long periods, not walked or groomed. Despite his lack of attention Jake is a friendly boy. He needs an experienced owner who can go back to basics and teach him some manners and give him some guidance on acceptable behaviour. Jakes long coat needs a good groom. This young dog is desperate for a home where he will be loved and receive the attention and exercise that every dog deserves. Theo This beautiful boy is 4 year old Theo who will need an experienced owner to provide him with time for exercise and socialisation. He currently lives with another dog and children but would now be best placed with much older teenagers. Although he lives with another dog and gets on well with her, he does not like other dogs when out. He is fully vaccinated and neutered. He requires a home with GSD experience who will guide and stimulate him, in return you will have a fabulous loving dog. He is up to date with vaccinations, neutered and micro-chipped. He is good with children but will need to be homed as the only pet as he likes to enjoy all the fuss and tummy tickles for himself; and following an attack by another dog when he was only 15 weeks old he can no longer tolerate other dogs or any other furry creatures. He is house-trained and has good basic commands. He has unfortunately been diagnosed with hip dysplasia but thanks to his good muscle tone the vet has advised he does not require an operation; the current pet insurance is transferrable. Our assessor found him to be a friendly and pleasant dog, walked well on the lead; his current owner sadly has to give him up as she is unable to control him around other dogs and the other pets in the home. He will suit an experienced owner who will understand his behaviour and provide him with the guidance and manners he requires. Lulu - Nuneaton This beautiful little girl is 3 year old Lulu who is fully vaccinated and micro-chipped and spayed and currently in foster. She has previously lived with children and is ok with most dogs but cannot tolerate small ones and definitely no cats. She is fully house trained but will require further training as she will pull on the lead and needs to learn a few manners. She suffers with dust and food allergies and is currently on medication and a special diet for this; she is currently insured and this is transferrable. She will require a firm handler who can provide her with the guidance and socialization she requires as well as the care needed with her allergy. A lovely girl who needs a chance to enjoy another loving home. He went to attack Ash on a number of occasions, Ash soon showed him who the boss was good lad. This shows he can be ok with the correct guidance. He is a big strong boy so pulls on lead. We would recommend that no small children as he is a very big lad. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Please help support the rescue Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. Thank you. Adopt a new best friend. By choosing to adopt, you participate in a statewide effort to provide homes for deserving and loyal German Shepherds. We cover all vet expenses and will purchase all needed supplies for your foster dog while they are in your care. Adopt a Dog Help us help future dogs. Donate your time. Campaign for fundraising. Transport dogs to their destinations. Make a difference in the German Shepherd community. Apply to volunteer with us and provide care for German Shepherds that truly need it. Apply to Volunteer We have found homes for hundreds of happy German Shepherds. Below is a list of German Shepherds that have successfully found a new home. German Shepherd adoption has changed our lives, and it can change yours, too. Bodie A friendly German Shepherd with a lovely black coat. Bodie was a lovely, personable German Shepherd that was finally adopted by a loving family after a long battle with homelessness. She also loves engaging in friendly play with cats! Jill Adopted in , Jill became a playful and positive addition to her family. Jill had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Now, she enjoys daily walks to local parks. Mesaba Once abandoned by his previous owner, Mesaba found a loving family in Georgia, who named him Mesaba after their Minnesotan roots. Mesaba now enjoys walks in the park, play time with friends, and a loving family. Giroux After previous domestic issues with cats, Giroux found a home with one of our volunteers. He now enjoys cheering up his new owner, who has previously lost a German Shepherd to age-related difficulties. Abbie After a history of neglect, Abbie was able to recover from her past trauma and find a loving and accepting home in .She now enjoys playing hide-and-find with new toys, playing in the local pond, and being part of her new family. Fletcher After abandonment from his previous owners, Fletcher was finally able to join his new and supportive family. He now enjoys long walks, lots of attention and plenty of space for personal recreation. Matilda Matilda was shy before reaching out shelter - but after some training, she was finally able to come out of her shell! She now spends time with her new family, receiving more love than she could ever imagine! Queen Adopted in , Queen is a playful and positive addition to any family. Queen had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Ike Ike is the life of the party. We are pleased to announced that after years of neglect, Ike was finally able to join a family of his own. Now, Ike enjoys playing with his new owners and enjoying a life of abundant love and affection. She was once abandoned by her previous owners, but with some care and rehabilitation, Lady was able to relocate to a loving family of her own! Schatzi Talk about playful! Schahtzi is a lovely German Shepherd that was able to join a loving family after a past of neglect. Now, she enjoys lots of exercise and good memories with his new family. See More Alumni Give in memoriam. To us, a dog is family. Every pet has a story, how they were rescued and what they meant to us. Tell us your story. 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. We are always looking for new volunteers — providing temporary foster homes for these dogs is the big need, but there are many more opportunities to help. Please consider joining our efforts. We also help owners who, due to unforeseen circumstances, find themselves unable to keep their dogs. Adopting Your New Canine Family Member All of the Front Range adoptable dogs are home fostered, or in cases where no foster home is available, some may even be boarded. Approved Applicants will receive detailed info on how to meet select dogs. Our entire adoption process typically takes no more than weeks from your submitting the application until you have a dog in your home. We rely solely on volunteers to place our dogs. Our volunteers have busy lives with their own families, jobs, school, pets, etc. We DO NOT discuss individual dogs with applicants until the adoption process has been completed because there is often more than one applicant interested in a particular dog, and we do not want to promise the same dog to more than one applicant. You can take home a shelter dog the same day. The first step is to submit a completed application. Your application does not obligate you to adopt, nor does accepting an application represent approval of that application. You do not apply to adopt a particular dog. The more open you are to gender, color and age, the more likely you are to find a dog with us. Next, we call your vet and your references. We are looking for people with a history of good pet care. Ideal applicants have lots of experience working with GSDs or large breed dogs. We want homes that accept that they are rescuing a dog and are willing to work with the dog to make him a good citizen. Yes, you will have to do some work. We will schedule a home visit. Once you have been approved to adopt from us we will contact you about suitable dogs and put you in contact with the foster parents. Since the foster parents know the dog the best, they are a key part of the process in determining which home and family is best suited for their foster dog. We get dogs into rescue on a regular basis and they are placed with previously approved adopters who have been waiting for their forever dog. It is best not to focus on any specific dog until you have been approved. We welcome your interest in a dog that may steal your heart but please remember that the dogs posted on our site today will most likely go to homes of applicants that applied weeks ago. Once dogs are available, we work with our current, approved applications until we find the right family for the dog. Once you are ready to adopt, we will give you all the information we have on the dogs for which you may be a good match.

You will need A collar with the name tag and a leash. You will also need dog treats to reward a dog while training. Also, necessary things like a bed, dog food, and bowls should be bought. Schedule It is vital to take care of sleep, food, and walking early. Make a schedule to get all your work done and take care of the dog. A fixed schedule will teach your dog to maintain decorum and Stick to its routine. Working along with the schedule will help both you and your dog. It helps you maximize your productivity and teaches the dog to behave independently. Safety While welcoming a dog into your family, your primary responsibility is taking care of its safety. Brief all of your family members about how to care for a dog, foods you should not feed the dog, etc. When you bring your dog home, it is necessary to constantly keep an eye on him as their surroundings are new, and the dog can be curious to explore it, harming himself in the process. It is of utmost importance to Keep any poisonous substance out of reach. Online Boxer Breeders in Nebraska NE : In case your pet store does not have a boxer breed puppy, there are very reliable online websites available from which you can buy. There is a high chance of finding a better dog online than your local pet store. You will find many options online. They have accommodated over two hundred thousand puppies in caring homes. They aim to give every puppy a happy home and improve their lives. Jor boxer puppies Jor boxer puppies specialize in breeding high-quality and healthy boxer breeds. They give assurance on the health and performance of their dogs. They offer dogs with excellent bloodlines from around the globe. Their dogs are very social and friendly. You can find a highly skilled breeder for boxer dogs. As this is an online marketplace, it has a vast network and can search for the best dog in the country. Puppies for sale today Puppies for sale today is a website that connects you with breeders Worldwide and helps you find the perfect fit. You will find anyone with a boxer puppy for sale on this website. It is a very genuine and proficient website. Adopt a pet For anyone looking for a boxer puppy on sale, adopt a pet is a reputable online website that you should check out. They offer puppies of all breeds, so you have a variety to look at before choosing a dog fit for you. Boxer breeders and boxer sellers: A highly skilled boxer breeder will keep the puppies with their parents for a minimum of seven to eight weeks. So if your breeder does not have any vaccine or health checkup documentation, do not buy a dog from him. A breeder specializing in breeding boxers alone should be preferred over the breeders who breed more than one type of dog breed. Upkeep of a dog: 1. Boxers like to look tidy. Hence you should bathe them once every 2 to 3 weeks. Boxes tend to have short hair, so brushing them once in a while will do just fine. Training Early training helps significantly in developing discipline. Socializing and exercising helps channel all the strength and energy in the right direction. Boxers need something new every time for entertainment. They are also very obedient and intelligent. Boxer breeds are also considered police dogs and assist in detecting drugs and finding missing people. Health Boxers need a moderate temperature and do not do well with acute cold or heat. They need to be considered part of the family and kept inside the house. Breeders should check for health conditions like Cardiac disorder, hip dislocation, thyroid deficiency, And the particular type of cancers. Nourishment Whether commercially produced dog food or home-cooked dog food, it should be high-quality and appropriate nutrition. It is vital to keep track of calorie consumption as some dogs are prone to weight gain. Also, treats should be given in moderation, or else they will throw tantrums at you if you give them their dog food. Giving a lot of treats can also cause obesity. Keep your veterinarian in the loop with what you are giving your dog and also ask for consultation from time to time. FAQs Which other dog breeds can be crossed with a boxer breed? Boxer and the Rottweiler cross will give you a protective and loyal pet. It will also keep the trespassers at bay. A boxer and an American pit bull are often compared, but a cross of these two breeds will give you an intelligent and faithful dog. A boxer and an American bulldog cross is muscular and looks more like a boxer. Are boxer breed dogs hostile? Boxers are aggressive and want to dominate other dogs, mainly of the same sex. However, exercises like playing fetch and taking the dog on walks helps tone down the aggression and increases energy and agility. It is also capable of causing harm to other animals if it detects any threat. Do boxers bark a lot? A boxer breed dog has high energy and playful nature. Conclusion: The Business of breeding dogs is practiced on a large scale. Large-scale breeding also raises The chances of scams; hence, getting your dog from reliable means is necessary. Vaccinations and health certificates are also necessary to look for when buying a dog. We also looked at some of the exciting crossbreeds between the boxer and other dog species. What is this article helpful? Let us know in the comment section below. Find Boxer Breeders in Other States:. Boxer puppies for sale Lincoln, Nebraska Boxer puppies for sale Lincoln, Nebraska Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Lincoln Nebraska? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Lincoln NE The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Lincoln for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. Lincoln NE Lincoln is the capital city of the U. The city covers .It is the second-most populous city in Nebraska and the 68th-largest in the United States. The city is the economic and cultural anchor of a substantially larger metropolitan area in the southeastern part of the state called the Lincoln Metropolitan and Lincoln-Beatrice Combined Statistical Areas. The statistical area is home to , people, making it the th-largest combined statistical area in the United States. Wiki Lincoln Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Welcome to the Nebraska state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Nebraska is known for its picturesque landscapes, friendly communities, and a wealth of dog-friendly activities. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Nebraska breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our NE breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. For those who enjoy the dog show scene, events such as the Nebraska Kennel Club Dog Show are perfect opportunities to engage with fellow Boxer enthusiasts and admire these fantastic dogs. With approximately thousand dogs, Nebraska is the 31st state in the United States in terms of dog ownership. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide secure and affordable flight delivery, with a devoted flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Cornhusker State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Boxer puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Start your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

Here at Blue Frenchies US, we strive to breed quality, healthy, loving French Bulldogs to provide to loving, forever family homes around the country. Hi and welcome to our website from the team at Blue Frenchies US. We specialise in breeding beautiful, healthy Blue French Bulldog puppies. We offer a nationwide delivery service chargeable and have delivered several puppies around the country, including Boston, Chicago, Texas and New York City. As breeders we have over 10 years experience breeding French Bulldogs and have been involved in the breeding of over 80 puppies. After visiting a friend in the UK, we fell in love with their French Bulldogs and knew we had to have one! We visited the UK for a couple of litters to learn how the breeding and whelping process works in preparation for starting Blue Frenchies US. We welcomed our first litter in at the beginning of the covid pandemic and our reputation is quickly building. Our puppies are brought up in a busy family home, around other dogs and plenty of family including children and friends. Our dogs are our pets and receive the upmost love and attention every day of the year and are constantly the stars of the show whether we have guests at home or are out on walks. Our dogs live inside, year round. When breeding, we go the extra mile to ensure that from as early as insemination, all the way until the day our puppies leave to their new forever homes, it is the most relaxed, comfortable and clean experience for our dogs and puppies. We hope you enjoy our website and find everything helpful. If you have any questions, click the contact us link at the top of any page or call us via the numbers on the contact us page. Get in touch for more information. Weight: Less than 28 pounds. Size: inches. Temperament: Sociable, laid-back and attentive. Blue French Bulldog Appearance Despite their small size they stand with a confidence that outshines their height. The breed itself is well-known for their characteristic smushed-in face and bat-like ear, which are always pricked and attentive to their surroundings. While their tails are often short and stumpy, they are not docked. Blue Frenchies are a small and stocky breed with a smooth coat. Size The Blue French Bulldog is inches tall and should not exceed 28 pounds. Thanks to their genetics their coat has that marvelous blue color, often either solid or with some white markings on the chest and belly. Special attention should be given to these areas while grooming as wrinkles can easily trap bacteria. They will shed twice a year. Frenchies are also popular on social media — Manny the Frenchie has over 1 million Instagram followers. They are unable to give birth naturally and often need a C-Section. This breed almost ended up with the rose ear of the English Bulldog, rather than the bat ears this dog is well-known for. They are playful and alert pups who often enjoy basic dog games like fetch. Due to their flat faces they will settle for a walk around the block. Still no matter the game all they want to do is be with you. Blue Frenchies rarely barks and will often quietly get your attention. They are social and adaptable dogs that are able to get used to any situation. These pups especially enjoy the company of people, children and other dogs. Just remember that young children should be taught manners and respect when it comes to handling a dog of any breed. Because of their small size, it can be easy for them to get hurt, so it is important to remind your children to not treat your pup like a teddy bear. If they are not stimulated they can be a tad destructive, so make sure you give them an outlet for their energy — toys and exercise work best. This breed loves is tug-of-war. Due to their clinginess they may be prone to developing separation anxiety. Yes, they can provide lots of fun for the family as well as lots of cuddles on the couch. However as previously mentioned just make sure your younger children are educated on how to properly handle small dogs. Because of their brachycephalic face you should make sure to avoid overexertion while exercising. Grooming them is easy as well — just pay attention to their wrinkles as bacteria and food can get trapped between the folds. The biggest thing to look out for is their health more on this later. All in all this dog is suitable for any household, from family homes to apartments. Just make sure their needs are being met and they will be happy. Exercise Requirements This breed does not need a lot of exercise. A simple walk around the block with some off-leash play in the park is enough. Whilst they are happy with nearly any activity make sure to avoid swimming. Their top-heavy bodies can act as an anchor, making pools and lakes dangerous for this dog. These dogs would rather surf TV channels than waves! Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding When it comes to grooming they are fairly low maintenance. For their bluish gray coat, a quick brush with a rubber glove every other day with a monthly bath are all it needs. Their wrinkles need extra attention. Be sure to clean their faces weekly with dog-safe wipes as food and bacteria can get caught in between their folds. Cleaning those bat ears is a must to prevent infection, as well as maintaining proper dental hygiene. Because they are not the most active breed pay attention to their nails and trim them if they do not wear down on their own. Feeding and Diet As they are an inactive breed keep track of their diet. Overfeeding can lead to them gaining weight due to their low activity levels. This dog should not exceed 28 pounds as extra weight can put stress on their joints. Checking with your vet is a great way to gauge how much food your dog needs as well as what type of food would be best for them. Avoid kibble brands with excess fillers or by-products. An experimental study observed that obese dogs who were on a weight loss program better conserved lean body mass while on a high-protein diet. Due to their flat faces they can have respiratory issues. You can hear this through their snorting and labored breathing in hot weather or after exercise. In addition Blue French Bulldogs are susceptible to spine malformations and can be born with hemivertebrae or abnormally shaped spine bones. As well as some skin issues, there is the risk of color dilution alopecia. This can result in self-destruction of the follicle and permanent hair loss. No breed is entirely free of health problems but Blue French Bulldogs need extra research when it comes to finding a reputable breeder. Be sure to invest in good health insurance in case any of these issues arise later in life. If you plan ahead, you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on. Me What is a Blue French Bulldog? A blue French bulldog is a variation of the French bulldog breed, known for its distinctive blue-gray coat color. French bulldogs are a popular breed of domestic dogs, known for their small size, muscular build, and wrinkled faces. The blue coat color is a result of a genetic mutation that results in a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, giving it a blue-gray appearance. What makes them blue? The blue coat color in blue French bulldogs is the result of a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment in their fur. This mutation affects the melanin pigment in the hair follicles, resulting in a blue-gray appearance. The mutation is caused by a recessive gene, which means that a blue French bulldog must inherit two copies of the gene one from each parent in order to express the blue coat color. Are Blue Frenchies really blue? Blue French bulldogs are not actually blue in color. The blue coat color is a misnomer, and these dogs are actually gray-blue or silver in appearance. The blue color is the result of a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, which gives it a bluish hue. Silver Blue: This is a lighter shade of blue that is similar to silver color. Dark Blue: This is a deeper, almost black, shade of blue. Blue Brindle: This is a blue coat with a brindle pattern, which is characterized by streaks of dark fur interspersed with lighter fur. Blue Fawn: This is a blue coat with a fawn-colored undercoat, giving the dog a blue-gray appearance with a lighter underbelly. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are typically good with children and other pets and make great companions for families and individuals alike. They are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise needs, making them a good choice for apartment living or for people with limited time for dog walking. Grooming Grooming your blue French bulldog is important for maintaining its health and appearance. Brush your dog regularly to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or a rubber brush to remove tangles and mats. Bathe your blue Frenchie as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be careful to avoid getting soap in their eyes or ears, and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently clean the inside of their ears. Brush his teeth regularly to maintain their oral health and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Blue Frenchies get on well with children Blue French bulldogs generally get along well with children. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful, and they tend to be good with children. They have a gentle and patient temperament, making them a great choice for families with kids. Size Blue French bulldogs are a small breed of dog and typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds, with males being larger than females. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. However, French bulldogs are generally a compact and muscular breed with a short, stocky build, and are well-proportioned for their size Lifespan The lifespan of a blue French bulldog is typically 10 to 12 years. Like all dogs, the lifespan of a blue French bulldog can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. A French bulldog can appear blue due to a genetic dilution of the black pigment in their coat, causing a blue-grey hue to appear. Are Blue Frenchies rare? Yes, Blue Frenchies are considered a rare coat color and therefore may be more expensive and difficult to find. What is the temperament of a blue French Bulldog? The temperament of a blue French Bulldog can vary, but generally, they are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs. They are known to be loyal companions and are good with children. Why should I choose Tomkings Kennel? We at TomKings Kennel are committed to the health, well-being, and responsible breeding of French Bulldogs. We put the needs of our animals first, and strive to produce healthy and well-adjusted pets that are well-suited to their new homes. We test our breeding dogs for genetic health issues and work to prevent the spread of inherited diseases. We also provide proper veterinary care for our dogs, including regular check-ups and vaccinations. We carefully plan our breeding programs to produce healthy, well-adjusted offspring. We also limit the number of litters our females produce to ensure that each animal receives the proper care and attention. We provide our dogs with clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions. We also provide our pups with regular exercise and socialization opportunities. We are transparent and open in our communication with potential Frenchie owners. We are happy to answer all your questions and provide information about our breeding practices and the care we provide to our puppies. We have a deep love and commitment to the French Bulldog breed and we work to promote and protect the health and well-being of the breed as a whole. The breed standard was introduced in stating that brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white are approved. The following colors are listed as disqualified including, mouse blue , solid black, liver, black and tan as well as black and white. The blue coat color of French Bulldogs is disqualified because it is not accepted by the official breed standard. It is considered a fad color. The reason why they disqualify this color is to preserve the breed standard and to protect the work of responsible breeders who adhere to the breed standard. Many people who breed fad colors such as blue are motivated by greed as these rare colors sell for very high prices. These breeders intentionally spread color genes that are unacceptable through the gene pool which causes problems for reputable breeds who are aim to produce quality French Bulldog puppies. No, you cannot show a Blue French Bulldog because their coat color is an instant disqualification. The B locus determines coat color which in the case of a Blue French Bulldog is originally black. The D locus is what determines if a Frenchie is fully colored or diluted. The D Locus dilute genes The D Locus controls the intensity of eumelanin pigment black coat color in Blue Frenchies as well in the pigement their eyes and noses. The two alleles on this locus are D and d. Blue French Bulldogs have a diluted coat because their melanophilin gene is mutated. Melanophilin is responsible for transporting and fixing melanin containing cells. No, Blue French Bulldogs do not change their coat color. The only change that may occur when they are a puppy is coat color lightening. For example, a Blue French Bulldog may look black when born but then over the next few weeks of their lives will develop a blue hue. A Blue French Bulldog is a diluted black color coat dog while a Lilac French Bulldog is a diluted chocolate color coat dog. Color dilute dogs such as Blue French Bulldogs are more susceptible to health issues such as color dilution alopecia which is a genetic recessive inherited condition that causes patches of hair loss or thinning as well as flaky or itchy skin. Just like all French Bulldogs, Blue French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed so they have a risk of obstructed airways, narrow nostrils, overheating and dental problems. Are Blue French Bulldogs Rare? Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are very rare. The dilute gene that causes their unique coloration is a relatively rare gene.

Blue-Eyed Golden Retrievers Could Suffer From A Medical Problem Golden retrievers are susceptible to several different health issues , some of which could cause them to appear to have blue eyes. Here are a few of them: Cataracts Cataracts are clouding of the lens of the eye that can leave them looking cloudy or blue. They may develop from disease, injury, old age, or genetic disorders. The bigger and denser they become, the more likely they are to lead to blindness, so bring your dog to the vet if you think they may have cataracts. Nuclear Sclerosis Many dog owners get cataracts and nuclear sclerosis mixed up. This is because they both give a cloudy, bluish hue to the eye. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a disease where the pressure in the eye is above normal levels. There are several potential causes, including injury or tumors, and it may lead to blindness. And like nuclear sclerosis and cataracts, glaucoma may cause the eyes to become cloudy or bluish in color. It could be a serious problem that could cause blindness. Good breeders are focused on the health and temperament of the puppies, and everything else is secondary. Conclusion Golden retrievers normally have brown eyes, not blue eyes. Have any questions about blue-eyed golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Related articles:. Weimaraner Husky Suppose you mix a Golden Retriever or a Lab with one — or more — of these breeds mixes. In that case, the chances are high that the result could be a blue-eyed mixed breed Golden Retriever. Blue eyes in a Golden Retriever can be linked to health conditions in their eyes. While this might not always be the case, there are a few issues to keep in mind. A few of them are: Cataracts A cataract is an eye illness when the eye lens becomes cloudy, leaving the eyes looking blue or cloudy. This may arise as a result of injury, genetic disorders, disease, or old age. The denser and bigger they become, the more likely it is for them to lead to blindness. Glaucoma Glaucoma is an illness where the eye pressure has levels that are higher than normal. It can be caused by a few potential events, such as tumors or injury, and can also lead to blindness. It could be a serious issue that could cause blindness. Nuclear Sclerosis Nuclear sclerosis and cataracts are often confused by many dog owners. Learn more about Types and Colors of Golden Retrievers. Albino animals have a deficiency of the genes that produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives color to the skin and hair. Albinism is very rare in dogs. In dogs, albinism is more likely to give them blue eyes. Albino dogs also have white fur and pink noses. There is a possibility where two purebred Golden Retriever parents can have an albino puppy. This would be one rare case where a dog with blue eyes could be a non-conforming Golden Retriever. It is extremely rare for Golden Retrievers to have albinism. Therefore, most Golden Retrievers with blue eyes are indeed Golden Retriever mixes. They include only dogs with brown eyes, where dark brown is preferred over light or medium brown. Therefore, if light brown is not considered acceptable, blue eyes have no chance. There are many puppy scams on the internet so be very cautious. They will claim these versions of dogs are rare and worth more. Conclusion To summarize, golden retrievers are not supposed to have blue eyes. The breed standard is brown eyes. There are three things to keep in mind when looking to get a blue eyed Golden Retriever: The eyes of a Golden Retriever puppy will change to the color brown as they grow older. Blue eyed Golden Retrievers could be the result of health issues. Most Golden Retrievers with blue eyes are the result of mixing with another breed of dog. If you wish to have a blue-eyed dog , then a husky or another breed with the tendency for blue eyes is a possible choice. Another choice would be to find a mixed breed dog, we would just advise to avoid paying a premium for those dogs and enjoy them for what they are. If you have concerns about the health of your dogs eyes, be sure to visit your veterinarian. To learn more about Golden Retrievers health issues, be sure to check out our post on Common Health Problems. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Boxer Pitbull You can see just how many dog breeds have the blue-eyed gene in their makeup, and some of these breeds even allow this genetic presentation in registered dogs. You will need to make sure that the breeder can provide you with accurate information about the blue-eyed dogs that they are selling so you can look into the possible health concerns that your dog might show later on. Golden Retrievers have their own common breed health issues , but you need to be aware of the risks related to the other parent as well. Remember also that these other breeds have their own specific temperaments that they were bred with for purposes like hunting, protection, and so forth. This can impact the attitude and temperament of the dog that you are getting from this breeder. The differences in your Golden Retriever from breed standard might be more significant than just the blue eyes. If you are looking for a kind, sweet, loyal family dog, you might still get this kind of pet from a breeder making blue-eyed Golden Retrievers, but it is less likely. There can be many changes to the way that your dog acts, the way they feel about kids and cats in your home, and more just related to the other breed that is mixed with the Golden Retriever. These are the considerations that many people forget about when they are attracted to an unusual color or breed characteristic in a litter of puppies. Yes, many puppies have what look like dark blue eyes when they are born. As they get more mature, the blue color will turn to brown in purebred dogs. If you had felt a sense of panic when you went to look at your purebred puppy because its eyes appeared blue, there is no reason to be concerned. This is totally normal in very young puppies. However, if the dog that you have picked out has very blue eyes when it is approaching a few months old, this dog will likely have blue eyes for life. This is one of the things that many people have concerns about when they see pictures of a purebred litter. Rest assured that a breeder who is AKC certified will never breed blue-eyed dogs, and they will be able to prove that none of their animals has ever had blue eyes. The important thing to remember when you are dog shopping is that you should ask as many questions as it takes for you to be comfortable with your purchase. Responsible breeders will be willing to answer all the questions that you have. You should be concerned about a breeder that will not reply to questions or who seems to be cagey about answering questions about their litters. This is often a sign that something is not right, and you should consider looking for another breeder if this is the way that the breeder you are looking into is behaving. There are other reasons that a Golden Retriever might have blue eyes, and these are more concerning than just irresponsible breeding practices. You should be aware of the other reasons that this eye color might be present in a litter so that you can decide if you are interested in carrying on with getting a puppy from the litter in question. Albinism This is not common in the Golden Retriever breed, but there are albino genes in all animal populations. Responsible breeders will not sell puppies with albinism, and they will never breed the parents again that made this defect come to the forefront. These are all albino animals, and they often suffer from significant health issues throughout their life. Albino animals will have pink around their eyes in most cases, but they do not have to appear this way. Some albino dogs will just have blue eyes. Another dead giveaway, however, is the pink nose that often comes along with the albino gene. If the dog that you are looking at has blue eyes but a dark nose, it is just not purebred. If the nose is pink, it is an albino animal. Recessive Genes Brown eyes genes are dominant, so they should be expressed first when two purebred dogs are crossed. There is the chance that a dog that should not have been registered as purebred can land in the gene pool and create a recessive litter, but this is very uncommon. Most dog breeds that have been accepted by the AKC with the standard for brown eyes have been so carefully bred that this is not a concern. Again, just as with albino animals, responsible breeders will never allow these animals with recessive genes to be sold to new homes. It is always a red flag when a breeder is offering a blue-eyed litter of Golden Retrievers for sale because of the health risks associated with animals with recessive genes. Cataracts This was mentioned earlier, but it is worth some more discussion. Golden Retrievers are a breed that is prone to eye issues, and there are some unethical breeders that might offer litters of puppies for sale that have eye defects. These usually become worse over time, and they can lead to a cloudy, bluish eye appearance. Make sure that you do not look at young puppies who are showing signs of an eye defect and think that they are blue-eyed. A good way to check the difference between blue eyes and eyes with health issues is to take the dog over to the light and look at their eyes. Blue eyes will look clear and normal, while eyes with health issues will appear cloudy and dull and without sheen. This is a great way to check this claim by a breeder to make sure that you are not being given an animal that will actually be blind early in life. This can be all right, but you need to be aware that when you support irresponsible breeders, they continue to make more of the same litters with the same potential health concerns. Your dog will also likely have more health problems during its life, and you should be prepared for a pet that might not have a normal lifespan. When you choose not to engage with breeders who are not responsible, you will also be helping to preserve these carefully-bred animals that are created with care by other breeders. While a Golden Retriever puppy from a skilled breeder will never have blue eyes, you will be getting a dog who represents the breed, and that was created with care. Responsible breeders will also take the time to certify their dogs for all kinds of health conditions, and they will stand by their pet animals if something happens that makes your dog a poor fit for your needs. The protections and benefits of shopping with a skilled breeder are numerous, and you will always be better served by paying a little more and avoiding dogs that have blue eyes. If you are really sold on having a dog that has blue eyes, there are so many breeds that can have blue eyes without having questionable breeding. Huskies, Aussies, and Border Collies can have blue eyes and still be purebred. There are many other options as well for this kind of trait if you want to have a blue-eyed dog that you can trust the breeder to have created with care. While a lot of these breeds will not offer you the same sweet, kind, and gentle temperament that a Golden Retriever can offer, you will still have a loving companion in your home that has the blue eyes that you were looking for. There is nothing good to be gained by supporting unethical breeders, and you will find that your puppy might not be very healthy either. While it can be tempting to just get one anyhow because you think that they are cute or because you feel bad for them, be sure that you are prepared for what this purchase might mean. Your dog could enjoy a healthy and full life with you, or they might be very sickly and have lots of problems that a dog that comes from a quality breeder will not. It is usually worth reaching out to some other recognized breeders if you notice that there is someone offering blue-eyed Golden Retrievers for sale. These breeders are very motivated to help regulate their own breeding community, and they can reach out to the breeder. Sometimes local breeders who are not registered with the AKC do not realize that this is a no-no. This is a better method of handling this issue than telling the breeder yourself that they are not providing puppies that will be healthy. Taking on a dog with a genetic defect can be a really tough process, which is why there are rescues that are devoted to this process. If you really want to get a blue-eyed Golden Retriever, you should contact shelters that specialize in these kinds of dogs and get a puppy from a shelter. This will support the effort to end this kind of irresponsible breeding, and you will get the blue-eyed dog that you have been wanting. Golden Retriever Recommendations and Resources. Updated: March 21st, This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here. Blue eyes are somewhat rare in the dog world and are beautiful to behold. This unique trait can be found in a variety of dog breeds, like huskies and Australian shepherds. But have you ever seen a golden retriever with blue eyes? There is a lot of misinformation about blue-eyed retriever dogs that can have a lot of people scratching their heads in confusion! Interestingly, while golden retrievers can technically have blue eyes, there is no such thing as a purebred golden retriever with blue eyes. Continue reading to find out the truth about blue-eyed golden retrievers! Golden retrievers can have blue eyes, but not in the same sense that Siberian huskies have blue eyes. You see, golden retriever puppies are born with blue eyes, and older goldens may have blue eyes due to cataracts or other eye problems. Golden retriever mixes, such as the golden Aussie , golden retriever pit bull mix , or Goberian husky may also have blue eyes. As you can see, the blue-eyed golden retriever is a bigger riddle than it seems. A blue retriever can be born in a litter of two purebred, brown-eyed golden retrievers. In any other sense, these blue golden retriever puppies should look and behave like any typical purebred golden. While these rules may seem pointless and even exclude perfectly sound dogs, the main point of breed standards is to preserve distinct breeds from being lost over time. It takes a lot of years of planned and selective breeding to create a dog breed for a particular purpose, such as guarding, hunting, retrieving, herding, and so on. Without strict breeding standards, all of those traits can easily get lost in future generations. There are several explanations for blue eyes in golden retrievers. While any of these scenarios are likely, crossbreeding is the most common reason for blue eyes in golden retrievers. Check out the following most likely causes of blue eyes in golden retrievers: Recessive Genes The genes that are responsible for creating brown-colored eyes in dogs are dominant, which is the main reason why so many dog breeds have brown eyes. According to the breed standard, golden retrievers should have brown eyes, and they were deliberately bred for many generations to exhibit this trait. Consequently, recessive genes that cause blue eyes have become less common than before. There is a very small chance that two golden retrievers that carry recessive genes for blue eyes are bred together. If by any chance this does happen, some of their offspring may inherit blue eyes. Cataracts Blue eyes in golden retrievers can also be caused by several health issues, with cataracts being the most common one. Cataracts are an eye illness that causes clouding of the lens of the eyes, making them appear cloudy or blue. Cataracts can develop very slowly or almost overnight and can be caused by injury, disease, genetic disorders, or old age. The bigger and cloudier cataracts become, the more likely that they will lead to complete blindness. Nuclear Sclerosis Nuclear sclerosis or lenticular sclerosis is a painless condition that creates a bluish or transparent haze in the lens of the eye. This condition is often seen in middle-aged and senior dogs and is considered a normal part of aging. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a disease of the eye that is characterized by increased intraocular pressure within the eye. This condition is the result of inadequate drainage of aqueous fluids, which is caused by tumors, interocular bleeding, uveitis, injury, or damage to the lens. Albino animals lack the genes needed for producing melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin and hair. Due to the lack of melanin, albino dogs have white hair, pink skin, and pink noses. While albinism is rare in dogs, it can still happen and will cause an affected golden retriever to have blue instead of brown eyes. As their eyes start to develop, their sight will improve, and their eyes will gradually change color from blue to brown. If you are looking to purchase a purebred golden retriever and a breeder tries to sell you a blue-eyed golden retriever, turn around and walk away! The two main problems with blue-eyed golden retriever puppies are that they are usually mixed-breed dogs, and their blue eyes will turn brown as they grow up and get older. If you are set on getting a blue-eyed dog, there are many dog breeds with blue eyes you can choose from. Golden retrievers can have blue eyes, but not in the way you would probably imagine. All golden retriever puppies are born with bluish eyes, but they start changing color when the puppies reach around four weeks of age. The only way a purebred golden retriever can have blue eyes is if they have cataracts, glaucoma, nuclear sclerosis, or some other eye disorder that causes their eyes to get a blush hue. Are blue eyes in dogs bad? The blue color can be caused by the lack of pigment or the merle gene, which has been linked with hearing impairments. Conclusion Purebred golden retrievers have friendly and expressive brown eyes, not blue eyes. While all golden retriever puppies are born with blue eyes, they will start changing color to brown once the puppy is around four weeks old. You May Also Like. But every once in a while, you might see a dog that looks like a golden retriever, except for its bright blue eyes. Can a Golden Retriever have blue eyes? A golden retriever with blue eyes does not meet the breed standard for a true golden retriever. Although it is possible in rare cases for a purebred golden to have blue eyes, it is most likely that any dog appearing to be a golden retriever with blue eyes is actually a mixed breed. Read on to find out more about the breed standards of golden retrievers and how it determines which dogs can be considered true golden retrievers. You will also learn about some causes of blue eyes in goldens and discover the surprising links between eye color and illness in dogs. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! When you register a dog to be in dog shows, you get paperwork that says your dog is officially a purebred member of a particular breed. The GRCA and the AKC together define the breed standard for Golden Retrievers to include only dogs with brown eyes—and dark brown is preferred over medium or light brown. They may very well be the offspring of two purebred golden retrievers, but they have not inherited the particular combination of genetic traits that define the breed. This may sound like a lot of needless rules that exclude some dogs for no good reason. It takes many generations of breeding to create a dog breed with the characteristics suited for a particular purpose—hunting birds, herding sheep, pulling a sled, and so on. Without a fairly strict definition of the breed, it would be easy to lose those characteristics in future generations. Want to see the breed standard in action? The Complete Golden Retriever Handbook Amazon link : This handbook is intended for new and future owners of goldens and includes a thorough introduction to caring for and enjoying your golden retriever. Causes of Blue Eyes in Golden Retrievers There are two explanations for blue eyes in the offspring of purebred golden retrievers. One is albinism , and the other is recessive genes for blue eyes. But blue eyes as a result of crossbreeding are much more common than either of these scenarios. Albino animals lack the genes for producing melanin , the pigment that colors hair and skin. This causes them to have white hair and pink skin. Albinism is rare in dogs. Two copies of the recessive genes for albinism have to be inherited for a dog to display these traits. Dogs with albinism are more likely to have blue eyes. Albino dogs also have pink noses and white fur. Two purebred golden retriever parents can possibly produce an albino puppy; this would be one of the rare cases where a blue-eyed dog can be a non-conforming golden retriever. Recessive Genes The genes that are associated with brown eyes are dominant , and so most dogs have brown eyes. This would be the second circumstance where a blue-eyed dog could be considered a non-conforming golden retriever. Some golden mixes are easy to spot as mixes, while others can look a lot like purebred golden retrievers. Many have the coloring of a golden and the beautiful curls of a poodle. Some have the golden retriever coat color and the blue eyes common to border collies. Want to see an adorable golden boxer pup at play? You can see the huge variety among these crosses, including goberians that look like blue-eyed goldens, here: Goberian is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Siberian Husky and often has blue eyes. Are Blue Eyes Linked to Illness? Because of this, many people mistakenly believe that all blue-eyed dogs are at greater risk of illness. They gradually darken to brown over the first months of life. But can it happen the other way? Can a brown-eyed dog become a blue-eyed dog? More often than not, they can simply be explained by a mixed genealogy or a harmless genetic abnormality. A particular eye color is not in itself a symptom of any specific health problem. It is usually the result of a water imbalance. It can generate very slowly and rarely causes pain or severe loss in vision, often meaning that the condition is not diagnosed until it has progressed. This is extremely common in older dogs, although some dogs will be more visually affected than others. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a potentially painful condition for your dog which results from high pressure inside the eye. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to complete blindness. There is no cure for Glaucoma, but the condition can be managed with routine medication. Heterochromia is a pigment condition in which a dog will have two different colored eyes. However, it can also come alongside uncomfortable conditions for pets, like as the result of inflammation or injury. Heterochromia is a common condition in Huskies, Australian Shepherds, and Collies, but significantly rarer in dogs like Golden Retrievers. The abnormality will be significantly more common in Golden Retriever mixes, particularly those mixed with a commonly affected breed like a Husky or Australian Shepherd. Conclusion Generally, Golden Retrievers have brown eyes. It is a feature of the breed, dating back to its first outings as hunting companions in 19th century Scotland. However, this is not to say that Golden Retrievers cannot have blue, green, yellow, or amber eyes. These features are common in mixes, can be the result of a random genetic abnormality, or could be symptomatic of a developing medical condition. Golden retriever puppies often have blue eyes, which darken with age. Finally, a Golden Retriever can have heterochromia, but this is incredibly rare. Most Golden Retrievers with heterochromia will be mixes, containing the genealogy of a commonly affected breed like a Husky or an Australian Shepherd.

With the Goldendoodle, you get the best of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle in one breed. Its hypoallergenic coat means little to no allergic reactions for owners allergic to dog hair, as the Goldendoodle is naturally a low to no shedding dog. It also makes a perfect family dog as it is naturally social and gets along with everyone, including kids and other house pets. For residents of the Mountain State of West Virginia, the popularity of the Goldendoodle is fast on the rise, as more and more breeders keep popping up in the state. But It is recommended that you get your Goldendoodle puppies from a reputable breeder. Finding a reputable breeder might be a bit difficult as it requires deep research. Luckily, we help make that easy. In this article, we highlight some of the best Goldendoodle breeders residing in the state of West Virginia. These breeders offer top-quality Goldendoodle puppies to numerous families in West Virginia. So, do ensure you read on to the end. Established in , Fox Creek Farm is dedicated to producing some of the best multigene Goldendoodle puppies that make excellent family pets due to their kind and gentle temperaments and overall playful nature. Their Goldendoodles vary in size, from mini to petite, to medium to standard Goldendoodles, and of different coat colors. Each Goldendoodle is raised in love by the team. They are secure, cared for, and fed highly nutritious food and high-quality supplements to help boost their systems. Their breeding program is also good as they have been able to produce a line filled with numerous AKC titled purebred breeding sires and dams. They are all AKC registered and are carefully selected based on their health, temperament, and intelligence. Also, they are health tested for a large number of possible genetic defects that can be easily transferred to the Goldendoodle litter. Every Goldendoodle puppy from Fox Creek Farm is well health checked by a licensed vet. They come with day health insurance. GANA pedigree, a 2-year health guarantee, their vaccination, and deworming records are updated and they are also microchipped. This means all our breeding dogs trace back to AKC registered purebred dogs or they have been DNA tested to ensure no other breeds are present in their ancestry. Each and every dog in our breeding program has been tested and certified clear of issues of the heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patellas. Furthermore, every dog has a complete DNA panel completed to determine if they are carriers of any of the issues that plague our breed. Fox Creek Farm is the proud founder of this non-profit organization created to guide the development of the Goldendoodle and to track the lineage of every Goldendoodle. Their mission is to improve canine health and to ensure puppy buyers are working with reputable breeders that meet their requirements for endorsement. They concentrate on breeding practices, physical health of breeding dogs and their puppies, mental health of breeding dogs and puppies, environment, and buyer education and policies. All heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patella certifications are completed by the OFA. Vets complete x-rays and physical exams and submit the results to the OFA for certification. Fox Creek Farm has these 5 certifications on every breeding dog in our program. They verify the identity of breeders and screen the information against a recognized puppy mill database. They provide resources to breeders to learn about health and nutrition, pregnancy and whelping, and puppy care. Puppies learn to climb objects, problem solve, and manding. We use methods to prevent aggression and we teach our puppies to sit on command by 8 weeks of age. Sign Up for our Newsletter First Name.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article.

His strong, hard athletic physique is still close-coupled and compact enough to promote the traditional bulldog looks that are common with regards to his breeding, making him stocky, athletic and imposing. The shoulders are muscular and slightly sloping, fore legs are straight, well boned and set well apart, elbows turned neither in or out, feet broad strong, toes tight, nails curved and strong, pads thick and tough. The hindquarters are broad and muscular, with well-developed second thigh denoting power, but not cumbersome, moderate angulations at hocks; cow hocks and splay feet are serious faults. His gait is powerful, heavy, with good drive from the hindquarters. A straight or pump handle tail is preferred and most desired, but crank and corkscrew are accepted. The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge has a large, strong head; the upper region of the head is slightly convex from one side to the other, the forehead dominates the face, however it is still wider than high, the head is furrowed, with loose thick and wrinkled skin about the throat and side of head, cheeks: prominent, due to the strong development of the muscles, broad muzzle: with obvious folds, broad and deep, keeping its length in comparison with that of the entire head. The nose is broad, with well open nostrils; lack of fore face with nostrils set on top of muzzle is a reversion back to the kennel club bulldog and is very undesirable. Care is taken to keep the traditional strong bulldogge head, allowing short strong enough muzzle to not hinder breathing while still keeping the solid close-coupled broad set bulldog looks. The body is compact. The chest is wide and deep with ribs well sprung and well set down between the fore legs. The back is short, giving the impression of a well-balanced dog. The neck is slightly arched, of moderate length, very muscular and almost equal to the circumference to the skull. The topline is solid with a broad and muscular back, withers well marked, broad loin, rather short and solid. The ears are set high and wide, rose preferred, button is accepted. The coat is of fine texture, smooth flat, short coat desired, similar to the glossy sheen of the Stafford, double or oily coat un-desired. Any color acceptable, Dorsets are bred in variations of brindle, variations of pied, also black and slate gray-blue; the slate gray blue's known as Dorset Blue poole's, as a respect and tribute to the original blue Paul pol of Scotland, and the area of Poole in Dorset. This breeding is still at the early stages of Steve's breeding program, and have only just after a few years started to reproduce type in color. Temperament The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is a very good all-around family member, loyal among the children and keen to please and be part of the family circle, not homed as a guardian, but determined protector nonetheless. Keen to lie at your feet or walk at your side, a good companion very attached to his master and very affectionate; longs for leadership and to be loved. They are usually good with non-k-9 pets, especially when raised with them from puppyhood and they usually get along well with other dogs; socialize well. Height, Weight Height: 19 - 21 inches 48 - 54 cm Weight: 60 - 90 pounds 27 - 41 kg Preferring a strong, stocky muscled physique—height and weight should be in keeping with a symmetrical, well-proportioned body, keeping the appearance of strong traditional bulldogge looks. If they are kept outdoors they will need the benefit of a good, dry draft-free kennel. They will do fine in an apartment. Exercise This Bulldogge can handle any amount of exercise. They are keen to lie at your feet or walk at your side, but like all dogs, need to be taken on a daily walk to fulfill their primal canine instinct to walk. Life Expectancy Some dogs have been known to live up to 14 years Litter Size Varies greatly, 3 to 12 puppies Grooming Coat care can consist of a daily wipe over with a cloth or soft brush; care should be taken to make sure all wrinkles around the muzzle are free from any dirt or staining. Origin With a breeding program known to go back to the late s, Steve Barnett set out to re-create his ideal bulldogge of old, utilizing his earlier experiences of the various bulldog crosses he was involved in breeding, some of which went into the foundation stock of the late Victorian Bulldog breeder Mr. K Mollett, who originally set out to produce a fitter kennel club bulldog. Steve Barnett's goal in his own words has been "always to produce a national bulldogge, a dog which is brought out into the show or ring with pride, to stand beside your dog knowing that he is an athlete, capable of non-stop energy, worthy of the name gladiator, a true bulldog both in appearance and traditional bulldog temperament. Not a nuisance around animals and other dogs, but with an inbred fire if needed, or called upon, a dog that would grace the arena of any show in any country any were in the world, and be gazed upon with true spirit and real national pride, not shown amongst the fruit and veg in a wheel barrow like the kc dogs of today. During the Tudor period both these bloody sports were at a height of national pastimes, the normal person, although poverty stricken and hungry, seemed to always find the odd half penny to attend the various bear pits that lined the south side of the Thames as early as , mentioned by Shakespeare and other known writers in their day. Henry the VIII had a real strong liking and interest in the early bear pits and bull baiting, appointing the first official master of the game, documented in history Queen Elizabeth had a fascination for the sport of bull and bear baiting. She once visited Kenilworth Castle in , then owned by the Earl of Leicester, here 13 bears were assembled for her amusement, although this was the height of the bull and bear baiting period in old England. A bill to end bull-baiting was defeated as late in history as by forty-five votes, only to be abolished 6 years further on in .A royal sport that has been documented throughout history for close to years, these early dogs were the backbone to the now out-of-shape bulldog of today, the kind that won the hearts and minds of the early writers of the day, that stamped the seal, that brought national pride to the words English bulldogge, our goal has been to re-produce this early broad-muzzled, flat-faced dog of old, but to still keep the traditional shape and character we have all come to love. White, fawn, red, or black Suitable for: Families with both small and large kids, single pet homes, and multi-pet homes Temperament: Loyal, trustworthy, calm, brave, and protective The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge offers a rare combination of calmness and protectiveness, paired with the ability to hang out with small and large children alike. But what else do you need to know about these dogs to care for them? We break it all down for you here. 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. But where these dogs really shine is with sociability. Finally, while these dogs have a comparatively short lifespan, they have fewer health concerns than other Bulldogs. This loving and calm temperament makes them a great family dog, no matter the age of your kids. If your life consists of driving one kid to practice every day throughout the week, you better be able to bring your Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge along for the ride. As long as you socialize your Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge early, they get along great with other pets. With socialization early and often, the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge does great with almost any other pet. At a minimum, you need to take your pup out for one walk a day to keep them healthy and happy. The length of this walk can vary, but we recommend at least 30 minutes a day. These pups are extremely smart, allowing them to learn a wide array of tricks, but they are also incredibly stubborn. This takes a ton of time and patience, and it can easily frustrate an impatient owner. Still, you should use a soft brush on them every day to help remove any excess hair and keep their skin healthy. Furthermore, you need to brush their teeth several times a week to maintain proper oral hygiene. Use a top-notch doggy toothpaste to clean their teeth, and it can save you a bundle at the dentist in the future. Here, Below we highlighted a few of the most common genetic problems that you need to keep an eye out for. Minor Conditions.

So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Before you bring this dog home, there are a few things to understand about the German Shepherd breed. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are animals that catch on quickly to almost everything. Your daily routine, commands, and household expectations are all things that are a breeze for them. With intelligence comes a lot of stubbornness. They require mental stimulation. Long walks are enough to tire out a lot of dog breeds, but with their intelligence, these dogs need more than just physical activity. German Shepherds are working dogs, and they benefit when there is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. If you genuinely want to tire them out, you must incorporate physical exercise with mental exercise. They have a lot of energy. Many German Shepherds benefit from agility courses to give them the appropriate amount of exercise. When you keep them stimulated, they are less likely to act out and cause destruction around the house. Image Credit: Niels Hansen, Pixabay 4. German Shepherds fiercely love their owners. German Shepherds tend to bond more closely to one family member than the rest. Still, they are lovers instead of fighters. They want to spend just as much time cuddling with you at night as they want to be out working during the day. They are great listeners. What else would you expect with those enormous ears perched on top of their heads? Those radar ears are listening to even the most minor sounds, and they are always eager to hear your voice. Image Credit: Capri23auto, Pixabay 6. German Shepherds were bred to be guard dogs. German Shepherds were originally bred to guard the fields of sheep and cattle. Whenever an intruder or predator came onto their land, they immediately alerted their keeper. Without the proper training, this behavior is sometimes territorial and can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. However, with the proper training, it makes you feel at ease whenever you go to bed at night. They are clingy. Not every German Shepherd is clingy, but this breed is known for following people everywhere they go. They are known to bark and howl when left alone for long periods. They are better suited for experienced dog owners. German Shepherds are a handful. These dogs require constant training and dedication. Without it, they could be aggressive or destructive. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay .They do better in pairs. Owning a dog is a better experience when it is mutually beneficial to both of you. Related Reads:. 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. German Shepherds just kind of happened to me. Shepherds are a bit suspicious of strangers. Also, be prepared for your shepherd to pick someone to be her person in your family. In my family, Pyrrha unequivocally picked me. Beware the land sharks! It comes from somewhere deep in their herding heritage, I suppose, but these are very bitey puppies! For this reason, a GSD can be a trying breed with young children, who often become unwitting targets for playful biting. If not addressed, this shyness can transform into fear-based aggression. These dogs are busybodies, and they want to know where you are and what you are doing at ALL times — in the event that your actions could compromise the security of the house and the family. German Shepherds have a double coat, which equals twice as much fur all of your floor, your sofa, your clothes, etc. German Shepherds like to play rough Shepherds have a tendency to rough-house with both people and other dogs. Dog owners with other breeds have told me that it took them a while to realize that our shepherds were playing with their dogs — and not trying to kill them. In my experience, even in play, shepherds like to go for the throat and get into some heavy-duty wrestling. If it hurts your feelings that some people are automatically scared of your dog, a German Shepherd may not be right for you. If you have a German Shepherd, let this motivate you to make your dog a great breed ambassador and help change negative stereotypes. See Also 10 Videos that show how Bulldogs make perfect friends of babies Be prepared for a potentially vocal dog GSDs also have a tendency to be vocal. Other dogs were more barky, especially at strangers walking past our fence or at other dogs. Pyrrha is an uncharacteristically quiet German Shepherd; but our little Eden loves barking, barking just for the fun of it! Be aware of this issue, and be prepared to start training your dog when and how to be quiet. Consider a large number of health issues German shepherds are famous for their litany of health issues. On a range from more benign allergies to life-threatening osteosarcoma, hemangioma , shepherds seem to have them all. The breed even has predispositions to diseases that seem to occur exclusively within the purebred line e. Find a good vet preferably one with shepherd experience , and start taking measures to keep your shepherd trim and healthy. German Shepherds are large, active, athletic, and highly intelligent dogs. What this means is that if they get bored, you are going to seriously regret bringing this fuzzy monster into your house. Try obedience classes, agility, flyball, Schutzhund, herding , nose work, etc. Shepherds can excel at many canine sports and activities! German Shepherd Purebred Puppy If you want a purebred puppy, do your research about the difference between working-line and show-line German Shepherds. This can be a touchy subject for some, but in general, I feel that the bottom line is this: Working-line dogs are sounder and healthier because they are bred to do a job. What you must know This post is a great introduction to the topic of working-line vs. Start researching how to determine what kind of GSD suits you and your family. Our foster German Shepherd Puppy Trina. The only downside of rescuing a purebred is that you have no health guarantees and no knowledge of their parents or often of their backgrounds. German Shepherd as a companion Pyrrha, for example, appears to be an American-line shepherd bred for companionship by a backyard breeder. Eden, on the other hand , is a German-line shepherd whose parents were imports titled in Schutzhund. They also showed dogs, so she has a more sloped topline than Pyrrha and slightly more exaggerated hocks. German shepherds still rank no. Consider it! Source: Wikimedia Commons. ALL puppies require hard work, devotion, and lots and lots of patience. But the joy they bring?