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We love these playful, intelligent, yet even-keeled dogs who are known to make wonderful family pets. So, great choice! Your next step will be to choose the right place to acquire the new addition to your family. Where to buy a Goldendoodle puppy? The most popular ways to get a Goldendoodle puppy are through a breeder or an adoption organization. However, even within those two choices, there are multiple ways to approach finding your new furry friend. Breeders Families who are looking to bring a puppy into their home usually utilize a breeder. The pedigree and temperament of its parents, its family history of illness, and other facts can help you understand and care for your new pet well. However, not all breeders are equal. There are a few different types, and there can be good and bad apples in each. Certified Breeders Two super small brown or chocolate Goldendoodles If you are looking to purchase from a breeder, then a certified breeder is often a great place to look. Because certified dog breeders must participate in audits for Canine Care Certification and take courses on best practices, certified breeders are generally a safe place to purchase a healthy and humanely bred pup. We would recommend choosing a trustworthy and certified breeder to ensure that you have a great experience. Especially for those choosing to buy a Goldendoodle pup as first-time pet parents, there are several essential things to consider about a breeder before making your decision. Consider these questions and more when making your final choice of certified breeder. See our detailed breakdown of how much a Goldendoodle costs over the first year. While an amateur breeder may offer added convenience, you will have to be much more vigilant in vetting them for yourself. In a best-case scenario, the perfect amateur breeder would be an already-close family friend or neighbor whose practices you are well-familiar with and who you know can be trusted. These sorts of encounters can often be a scam , leaving you out several hundred dollars with nothing to show for it. Of course, not all Facebook advertising breeders are looking to trap you. Adoption Unfortunately, there are so many unwanted and discarded dogs who need a second chance at a loving family. Fortunately, this is where you can come in! We recommend continuously checking shelters and adoption organizations before deciding to utilize a breeder. This is a valid desire for families with children or with plenty of extra time to spend raising a dog. However, puppies are often available to adopt if you look in the right places! Local Humane Societies and Shelters Regardless of where you live, you likely have a Humane Society or shelter in your local area. If you are close enough, you can visit to see what kind of dogs are available. Shelters are also very meticulous about health standards, so you can be sure that your new friend is vaccinated when adopting. Pets are also often microchipped and spayed or neutered if not already. As an added plus, adoption is often far less expensive than purchasing from a breeder. If you are open to adopting an adult dog, shelters are a perfect place to begin your search. You can never be certain of what kind of dogs will be abandoned or given up at no fault of their own. Designer dogs, like puppies, are in high demand and move through shelters quickly. See the best Goldendoodle rescues in North America A Mini Goldendoodle sitting on a park bench However, many breed-specific rescue groups can make your search for where to buy a Goldendoodle much easier! These groups specialize in re-homing specific breeds. Because of this, they are often run by breed enthusiasts who are knowledgeable and experienced at not only working with Goldendoodles but helping you find one with the right temperament to fit your family. Another bonus is that many breed-specific rescue groups, because of their specificity, employ a vast network of volunteers to make transportation easier. If you are not in the vicinity of the rescue itself, transportation options are often available. Most other countries have Poodle mix rescues. Make sure to ask upfront or research transport, specifically if the rescue is not in your local area. Even if you are willing to travel to collect your new furry friend, some rescues might have rules about the radius in which they are willing to adopt out. There are also website databases designed to help you search across multiple rescues and shelters for precisely the kind of dog you want. This is the perfect resource if you feel overwhelmed at the prospect of searching out a specific rescue. You will always have the issue of not knowing the parent dogs, so there is risk of temperament issues, or hereditary health problems like hip dysplasia. But you are saving a life and most resuces are fanatical about protecting and ensuring a healthy puppy. Goldendoodles will require regular grooming and upkeep. Final Thoughts Adding a Goldendoodle to your family is a great choice that you are sure to be happy with for years to come! When deciding where to buy a Goldendoodle , always check your local shelters and rescues first. There are so many dogs waiting for a second chance at a fur-ever home who can bring you a lifetime of joy and fulfillment. If you decide to go with a breeder, make sure to vet them and examine their credentials thoroughly. We recommend never purchasing from a pet store or a puppy mill, even though these may sometimes masquerade as backyard breeders. Doing your pet owner homework beforehand, whether you choose to adopt or buy, will ensure that you end up with a happy, well-adjusted Goldendoodle who will be a perfect fit for your family. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. I'd like to subscribe to be notified of upcoming litters If you are human, leave this field blank. Each new litter of Goldendoodles is unique and may inherit various features from each parent breed. That is why it is crucial to pick a reliable Golden doodle breeder with expertise in both parent breeds. As all dog owners know, every new puppy has a unique personality waiting to develop with your love and care. The standard is the largest Goldendoodle size, ranging in height and weight from 25 — 28 inches to 90 pounds. Typically, Standard Goldendoodle weighs between 50 and 65 pounds and stands between 23 and 25 inches in height. Families adore standard Goldendoodles because of their prominent playful personalities and peaceful, friendly demeanors. The Miniature or Mini Goldendoodle grows between 15 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 25 and 35 pounds when fully grown. This size Goldendoodle is the sweet spot — people who live in large homes with enclosed yards and those who live in condominiums or townhouses love this size. These little cuties weigh less than 25 pounds usually pounds and range in height from 10 to 18 inches. Our Toy Goldendoodles have the sweetest personalities and hypoallergenic qualities, making them another popular choice. Raising puppies is our job, passion, and calling. Each of our healthy puppies for sale will envelop the characteristics mentioned above but have individualized, unique qualities that we want you to look for. A good breeder in Illinois will only show you what they want you to see, but a reputable breeder will go the extra mile to ensure health, promise a warranty and be fully honest with your next Goldendoodle puppy. Our parent dogs and puppies undergo a comprehensive set of health and DNA tests to ensure you get the healthiest dog possible from health tested parents. All of our adorable Goldendoodles come with a 2-year written genetic health guarantee. As Professional Goldendoodle breeders, we do everything possible to ensure that our Goldendoodles are the happiest and healthiest. Honesty Reputable Goldendoodle breeders are open and upfront with their customers. They must answer any of your questions about their breeding program and the dogs they breed with honesty and competence. If they do their job well, they will have a good breeding reputation by following through on their promises and professionally handling issues. At Central Illinois Doodles, we are Goldendoodle breeders operating openly and transparently. Simply put, it means that your puppy comes from carefully chosen parent dogs whose lineages have been OFA DNA tested for genetic issues and common health concerns. As a result, all of our puppies come with written guarantees that they are free of health conditions and genetic disorders. Temperament is also a priority for us, and our goal is to ensure that the dogs we breed are the best match, not just for adorable puppies but well-tempered ones, too. Variety of Sizes and Colors Our Goldendoodles come in various sizes, from standard to miniature to toy, encapsulating the breed in a lovely tiny package! Every litter features a wide range of hues, from white to brown to tan and everything in between. The coat types of our Goldendoodle pups range from wavy to wavy, with loose curls to very curly. Whatever your preference, they are all extremely precious! Owners will be thrilled to see that our little puppies are already displaying indications of their intelligence as they learn and play in their new surroundings at just a few weeks old. While other breeds at the same age may be distant and unsure of their place in the family, our Goldendoodle pups bond quickly and develop devotion and loyalty at a young age. Goldendoodle breeders can ensure that their puppies inherit the best and healthiest qualities by carefully selecting parent dogs. So whether you are looking for a devoted friend, a service dog, or a therapy dog, Goldendoodle puppies are the best possible breed to consider! Check out our available puppies page to learn more about our current litters. We look forward to talking with you about our current or upcoming litters and helping you reserve your new puppy. Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? If you are looking for reduced shedding in your dog, then the Goldendoodle may be the perfect fit for you. Most Goldendoodles inherit less shedding and hypoallergenic coats, but not all Goldendoodles inherit these traits. When the puppy is around three weeks old, Goldendoodle breeders can usually tell the type of coat they will have. This allows them to find the perfect family for each pup. Do Goldendoodle Puppies Need Training? Unfortunately, at the time being, we have no specialized training packages to offer you. But we would highly recommend finding an experienced dog trainer in your local area. We have a range of prices for our Goldendoodles, depending on the type of coat, color, size, and parents. Our Goldendoodles might not be as cheap as dogs from puppy mills or backyard Goldendoodle breeders. They reflect the effort and dedication we put into presenting you with a healthy and well-tempered perfect puppy. Please review our puppy price guide on our website for more information. Doodle Breeder Near Me. We are Cindy and Jeff Suit, and we strive to produce puppies with the very best temperaments and personalities, and the health and overall condition of our Goldendoodles are a top priority. All of our puppies come with a two-year health guarantee, have been vet-checked, have received their first shots and have been wormed on a regular basis. The care we take in breeding to create the best puppies is matched by the thorough socialization we give them after they are born. After more than two decades of producing exceptional puppies, our reputation speaks clearly about our breeding methods, the level of care we provide and, most importantly, the great love we have for these wonderfully sensitive and intelligent dogs. We take great care in matching you with the right puppy. So, if you would like more information about our puppies, please fill out the puppy application on our website. We will call you to discuss your preferences and our available litters. Available Goldendoodle Puppies The health, beauty and temperament of a Blue Ridge Goldendoodle puppy is second-to-none. This page features the stunning selection of pups we currently have available. Learn More Meet Our Dogs The secret to continually producing great puppies is to always use the very best breeding pairs. We carefully select our sires and dams for health, temperament, beauty, size and coat type. Visit this page to learn more about the exceptional dogs we use to create our second-to-none Blue Ridge Goldendoodle Puppies. They are up-to-date on shots and have been wormed regularly and thoroughly checked by our vet. We send a detailed vet record with every one. Each puppy also comes with a blanket or toy that was played with and rubbed on the mom and the siblings. This helps in the transition from our home to yours. We also test them for problems with the elbows and heart, check for patella luxation and make sure that their eyes are cleared for Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA , a degenerative vision disorder. In addition to these checks, our breeding dogs are DNA tested for a battery of genetic diseases. Blue Ridge Goldendoodles is a member and recommended breeder at Goldendoodles. About Goldendoodle Puppies Goldendoodles are the result of calculated crossbreeding between pedigreed Golden Retrievers and any of the three officially recognized Poodle varieties standard, miniature and toy. Exceptional breeders like Blue Ridge Goldendoodles are able to produce puppies with the best attributes of each lineage — physical beauty, loving and loyal personalities, high intelligence, a strong desire to please and a size range that suits apartment dwelling, farm living and everything in between. Their patience and gentle spirit make Goldendoodles especially good with small children. If acquiring a Goldendoodle is the right choice for you or your family, start by locating a top-quality breeder. All puppies should be examined and okayed, too. These exams are standard operating procedure at Blue Ridge Goldendoodle Puppies. No, all dogs shed a little, that is nature. There is low shedders and high shedders. A low shedder would have more texture of the poodle coat. Where as a high shedder would have the lab texture. Most Goldendoodles are low shedders. What is the main difference between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles? Cindy Suit T What is the main difference between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles? The differences between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles depends mostly on the breeding stock chosen for the parents. With that being said, there really is no difference between our Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. Most people cannot tell the difference between the two breeds. Please feel free to look at my Doodle Hall of Fame and see if you can tell the difference. Are Goldendoodles easy to potty train? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles easy to potty train? Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and motivated to please, this makes them outstanding pupils for housebreaking, crate training, learning tricks and more. What is the difference between and F1 and F1B? It depends what genes they inherit. What is an F2? Cindy Suit T What is an F2? In genetics, an F2 means a second generation cross, or a cross that is 2 generations away from the original parent breeds. There are 2 ways to get to the second generation. The second way is described above, as an F1B. So breeding an F1 Labradoodle or Goldendoodle back to a Poodle to get an F1B, is resulting in a second generation of the hybrid. Are Goldendoodles appropriate for apartment living? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles appropriate for apartment living? Yes, Goldendoodles are a very adaptable breed that can thrive in all residential settings. All they need is proper love and care from you to flourish. Plus, potential owners have the option of choosing a standard, mini, toy or teacup Goldendoodle based on the ideal size fit for their living conditions. While this is an impossible question to answer with any specificity, the average lifespan of a Goldendoodle is calculated to be between 10 and 15 years. Do Goldendoodles get attached to one person? Cindy Suit T Do Goldendoodles get attached to one person? Goldendoodles are extremely affectionate dogs who love to give and receive outward signs of love. They have the propensity to become more attached to one person, but their drive for attention prevents them from limiting their interactions in this way. To the dog, anyone willing to spend a few minutes giving a belly rub is worth an abundance of licking. Are Goldendoodles lap dogs? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles lap dogs? Whether your canine companion is a five-pound teacup or a pound standard, they will see themselves as equally small and act accordingly. If that sounds the least unpleasant, know that new owners quickly get used to having their entire laps swallowed and grow to love these times of bonding. Still have more questions about Goldendoodles? Check out our reference pages below:.

Look no further than Hooch Jr. With his endearing resemblance to the iconic Hooch from the movies, Hooch Jr. His expressive eyes and that classic pitty smile will melt away your worries in an instant. But wait, there's more — Hooch Jr. It's like he's a master at tugging at your heartstrings with every glance. Hooch Jr. He thrives on human companionship and can't wait to become your new best friend. While he's more than happy to make new furry buddies, his heart truly belongs to his human family. He's a prime example of a lap dog trapped in a slightly larger body, and he's guaranteed to provide you with an endless supply of cuddles, snuggles, and affectionate gazes. Whether it's a romp in the yard or a leisurely stroll with his canine pals, Hooch Jr. This little guy is no slouch when it comes to learning. And if you're a fan of peaceful walks, you're in luck! He's a leash-walking extraordinaire, making every stroll a breeze. If you're looking for a furry companion who wears his heart on his paw, Hooch Jr. His enthusiasm for life and his love for everyone he meets are truly heartwarming. Whether you're young or young at heart, he's bound to wrap you around his little paw with his irresistible charm and his expertly executed pout lip. If you're ready to open your heart and home to a forever friend, don't miss the chance to bring Hooch Jr. He is microchipped, current on his vaccinations and preventatives. If someone has caught your eye and you wish to arrange a meet and greet, we do need you to fill out the adoption application. When your adoption application is received our screening team will verify the information given. Once your application has been confirmed and approved, we will be send it over to the foster parent for review to determine if your home is a good match for the dog. In the event one lucky dog receives multiple applications, please know we do not select based on a first come basis. We try our best to select the best-fit for our animals and families. We invite you to take a peek at our handsome, friendly, large breed American Bulldogs. We are a a team of private American Bulldog Breeders and our dogs and pups are never kenneled or crated. They are our family pets and roam our house and land. We breed loving American Bulldog Puppies for you and your family to cheerish. Learn More After breeding these amazing creatures for 22 years. We have perfected the best breeding standards that have award us the 1 American Bulldog breeder in America. At We Love American Bulldogs we take a lot of care and pride in helping educate families about the breed that are interested in bringing one of these beautiful creatures into their homes. As any breed the most important thing you can do, is educate yourself about the breed that you are about to bring into to your life. We hope by offering these documents and our YouTube videos, about the breed and about the puppy you are about to consider to be a part of your family, that you will do it with complete awareness of your responsibility to the breed and your puppy. Get a Puppy Our team at "We Love American Bulldogs" feel blessed to care for these wonderful creatures we brought into the world. We worked very hard to make sure the foundation of your puppy is stable, loving and strong. Now we hope with all the information my over 22 years experience with this breed bring me, that we will share with you, that you will stay the course and make sure these pups are the best and true American Bulldog they can be. A Day In The Life.NKC Jr. Little did I know what I was getting into, learning quickly that American Bulldogs can be a handful, to say the least. But nonetheless, Coot and I had a wonderful bond and shared an adventurous life together for 10 years before I lost him to cancer. From the start, Nashi immediately became part of the family, living in our home in the NC Mountains, surrounded by active adults and teenagers. We spent endless hours training and socializing her with people, taking her to various stores, festivals, hiking in the mountains, car rides, and dogs shows. We competed in our very first conformation show in , competing until we retired Nashi after she produced her first litter. We kept Boss and Domino from the litter, competing in the show ring once again with Domino. In , we produced our second litter from Domino, expanding our list of dogs with the addition of Wick. We love that the American Bulldog is the embodiment of loyalty and devotion. The perfect combination of a working dog, true guardian, powerful athlete and companion. They are very intelligent, courageous, goofy, sensitive and stubborn. We enjoy the breed because we can do everything we want with them; hike, swim, camp, hunt, the possibilities are endless. The American Bulldog isn't for everyone, they can be territorial and dog aggressive. As a puppy, one must be dedicated to training and build a good foundation, socialization and defining boundaries.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.

These dogs are all about being with "their" people. In fact, this is one of the hallmarks of this dog breed. While French Bulldogs aren't known for barking a lot, they will vocalize when they feel that they need to. Crying is one particular sound that Frenchies tend to make a lot. But because most dog owners — and especially first-time French Bulldog owners — expect a dog to bark or even howl, they often are understandably confused about the meaning of canine crying. What exactly does this even sound like? Why do Frenchies bark very little but cry a lot? Is there anything you can do to make the crying stop? We are going to go into detail with all these questions and more in this article. Listen to the Sound of a French Bulldog Crying In case you are not quite sure if the sound we are describing as "crying" is the same sound you are hearing your French Bulldog make, you can listen to this short video to match up the sounds. In the video, the owner states that the Frenchie is crying out of boredom. But you will notice there are actually a number of different sounds — some are more like a traditional canine whine while others almost make the pup sound like a bird! How do these adorable pint-sized dogs manage to make such a wide range of unusual sounds? More importantly, why would a French Bulldog evolve to chirp like a bird and cry like a human baby? We're about to find out now. Is French Bulldogs Crying Normal? In this French Bulldog owner forum , you can see post after post from Frenchie owners talking about French bulldog crying. If you have been feeling frustrated by this behavior in your own dog, you can easily see from the posts on this forum that this is normal — you are not alone. On the one hand, it can be good to know this is a legitimate and basically "normal" behavior that many Frenchies exhibits. On the other hand, it can be wearing on your nerves to be followed around by a crying dog all day and all night. So why do French Bulldogs cry so much? Let's take a look at what several French Bulldog breeders have to say on this topic. French Bulldog puppy crying is normal As one French Bulldog breeder explains, uring the first week or two after your Frenchie comes to you as a puppy, you can expect a good amount of crying and whining. Your dog is adjusting to all kinds of changes at a breakneck pace. From learning to sleep without littermates and mom to teething to learning the ropes of basic obedience commands, your puppy is going to feel overwhelmed and perhaps anxious. Crying is a natural part of this process. French Bulldog adult crying is normal Another French Bulldog breeder warns prospective owners that Frenchies are a "needy" breed. They are also a noisy breed. French Bulldogs don't just cry and whine. They also snore. They can fart regularly. And some French Bulldogs have been known to scream. With this rather wide and varied menu of sounds in a French Bulldog's regular communication repertoire, the fact that your Frenchie isn't barking a lot may simply go unnoticed. So now you understand that, on some level, French Bulldogs have a tendency to cry. This is a known trait of this breed. But clearly, since the French Bulldog is still the fourth most popular American Kennel Club AKC registered purebred companion canine in America out of nearly registered dog breeds , owners somehow find a way to deal with this sometimes troublesome behavior. Understanding why Frenchies often cry so much is a big step towards achieving this goal. After all, the sooner you figure out the mystery, the faster you can work towards stopping it. Here are the main reasons breeders, owners, and canine veterinarians cite that can cause a French Bulldog to start crying: 1. Your French Bulldog is lonely French bulldogs are a created breed, bred down from larger working fighting bulldogs to their current toy breed size. Your French Bulldog has a long history of accompanying people around town both day and night, lounging in coffeeshops and bellying up to the bar in dancehalls and saloons. So a French Bulldog home alone is going to be a lonely Frenchie indeed. If your idea of a great companion isn't a dog that wants to be with you and ideally on you at all times, you may have an adjustment period to living life with a Frenchie. Your French Bulldog is anxious Just like many dog breeds might bark out of anxiety or nervousness or fear, your French Bulldog is equally likely to cry or whine when they feel unsettled. You can test this theory by noticing what your French Bulldog does when a thunderstorm rolls in or the summer fireworks start popping. But it doesn't take a big event to create anxiety in your sensitive Frenchie, either. Just sensing that you may be going out without your dog may trigger anxious crying. Your French Bulldog is cold Frenchies are small dogs. Most weigh less than 20 pounds fully grown. They also have very short, fine coats. This makes for a neat and refined appearance. But it can also cause your dog to get cold in winter and when the air conditioning is blasting in summer. For some dog breeds, the French Bulldog included, the purchase of canine clothing is not just for the sake of cuteness. It can also be a good way to help your pup stay warm year-round. This can be especially important for Frenchies, which are known to be an indoor breed that can live perfectly happy inside even in small, confined spaces. Your French Bulldog isn't feeling good Just like many babies cry when they aren't feeling well, your Frenchie is quite likely to express feelings of dis-ease or un-well by crying. Your French Bulldog wants your attention Sometimes French Bulldog owners inadvertently reinforce the very behavior they are trying to stop by running to see what's wrong when their Frenchie starts crying. You can bet your dog will learn quickly that crying equals your attention! Your French Bulldog is bored French Bulldogs are not the most energetic of dog breeds. Much of the reason for this is due to their short brachycephalic muzzle type, which makes breathing somewhat difficult. But French Bulldogs also aren't great at entertaining themselves. Their idea of entertainment is being with you, doing whatever you are doing. If you aren't around or aren't available, your Frenchie may start crying to let you know they are bored. Your French Bulldog is confused Frenchies are sensitive dogs and are incredibly attuned to their owners. They can pick up on the subtlest of human expressions and emotions and can also sense conflict. Like all dogs, French Bulldogs thrive on regularity and routine. Changes to your dog's daily schedule can provoke confusion about what is supposed to happen when. If your Frenchie is confused, you can expect some "acting out" via crying instead of the more typical barking. Here, if you can learn to hear crying like you would hear the barking, it may be easier to identify the issue and fix it. A few hours or days of French Bulldog crying is likely to be far less adorable. Is there anything you can do to stop this from happening? As a matter of fact, there is. Take your Frenchie to get a veterinary checkup As Little House Animal Hospital explains, the very first step to take is to just double-check that your dog is healthy. Take your Frenchie for a veterinary checkup so your vet can verify all is well health-wise. Give your dog more activity and structure Once health conditions are ruled out, you can take a closer look at behavioral issues that may cause crying. Since the French Bulldog is known for being a breed that cries rather than barks, you can expect some amount of this behavior no matter what you do. But you can reduce crying by making sure your dog has adequate socialization, playtime, exercise, and plenty of you-time. You can also eliminate any of your own behaviors that may be reinforcing the crying behavior so your dog learns crying means no attention from you. Do you have a crying French Bulldog at home? Share your tips on how to keep Frenchies content and quiet. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. To be honest, it was heart-wrenching and tiring, but it is an essential part of them adapting to your home as well as their crate training. The bottom line is; French Bulldog puppies do cry when they are taken from their mother and siblings, and they will cry in the crate for some time. You need to weather the storm, accept the lack of sleep, and persevere with it. In this guide I am take you through the steps to cope with the whining and crying, whilst you get your new Frenchie puppy settled into his new home and crate training routine. But first, just a little bit about Frenchies and crying. Why do French Bulldogs cry? They will cry for attention, when they want feeding, or if they need to go to the toilet. It is also related to separation anxiety read more on this when left alone. It can sometimes look a red or brown color, seeping from their eyes. Eye allergies: An allergic reaction can also lead to watery discharge from their eyes, which can look like tears and crying. French Bulldog puppies are even bigger criers, particularly in the first 4 weeks you have them at their new home. Frenchie puppies will also cry when you first start them getting used to sleeping and staying in their crate. Do French Bulldogs cry tears? French Bulldogs do have tear ducts, but they work in a very different way to human ones. Rather than the tears running from their eyes, the actually drain back into the nasal cavity… which is why blocked tear ducts result in what look like tears. Do French Bulldogs Scream? Some Frenchies can make a whining and howling noise that does sound like a human scream, or even a baby screaming in some cases. When we bought our Frenchie home for the first time, he made a few screaming sounds on the first few nights. Not all of them will do this though as each dog will have their own tone of voice and mannerisms… I did find a Frenchie screaming on YouTube which is a great example. Do French bulldogs cry at night? French Bulldogs do cry at night when you first bring them home. Now let me share with you steps you can take to stop your French bulldog whining in their crate, no matter what their age. Firstly, why is your French bulldog puppy crying in his crate? There are a number of reasons, including: Your Frenchie is lonely: This is a classic crying scenario when dogs are used to being with their owner and are shut in a crate when you go out. Your Frenchie is scared: Older or rescue dogs can have negative connotations connected to the crate. Your Frenchie needs the toilet: Or it could be as simple as them needing to pee or possibly even vomit here are reasons why Frenchies can be sick. Please Note: French Bulldog puppies will cry in their crate for at least the first few days you have them. The steps below are best applied when the crying is problematic and longer term. Make the crate experience a positive and comfortable one To stop your French Bulldog puppy crying at night, make the crate as great an experience as you can. For example, you might want to place some interesting toys in there here are toys Frenchies love , make it cosy with blankets, and leave an appealing treat in there. At this stage in their life, puppies will start to teeth and hanker for anything chewable they can get their jaws around. Kong toys are great for this, and you can see which ones work really well in on this teething toys page. You should also try building up positive associations with the crate, and some puppy owners like to let theirs feed in there. Also place something that smells like you in there — it could be a cushion or a t-shirt with your scent on. But, by having the crate close to you during the puppy months, it does mean you will be alerted when they need a potty break. Use the right-sized crate When crate shopping, I always suggest going larger than you need because it can then be their crate and bed for life. Puppies need room to be able to move around, stand up, and turn to let them be comfortable and not feel caged. Make sure your Frenchie goes to the toilet first To really help minimize your French bulldog crying in his crate, make sure their bladder is as empty as possible before sleep time. However, with puppies, they will need the toilet constantly, and I remember this time with our Frenchie very well. Every hour I would take him out of the crate at night and take into our back-yard patio area. You can still expect some accidents though, which is why puppy pads are so essential. Again, you can buy puppy pads on Amazon — they are cheap when bought in bulk. Tire your Frenchie puppy out before crate time An over-excited puppy will not sleep and will cry more in his crate at night if he still has excess energy to burn. Frenchie puppies can tire really quickly, so it could just be a short walk out back or a game of tug of war. Older dogs will have more energy to burn, so give them a run out for 20 minutes before crate time. If you go to the crate every time he cries or whines, you are just reinforcing the behavior, and making him know you will always come and let him out. The difference between crying for attention and crying for the toilet But how do you know which cry is which? Over a week or so, your puppy should learn that crying gives him the toilet and nothing else. As frustrating as your French bulldog crying at night will be, never scold them. If your Frenchie is crying due to anxiety and fear, yelling will not help. Yes, he might stop crying in the short-term, but only because he is scared. The minute you do will put you back to square on. Conclusion Finally, if you cannot put a finger on why your French Bulldog is crying, and have ruled out the possibilities in this guide, please do consult with your vet. Frenchies are susceptible to a wide range of health problems listed all here and it could be a physical or behavioral issue. Peter Achachi - July 2, French bulldogs are friendly and make one of the best companions one would ever have for a pet. They are playful, friendly, and you can carry them around all day. But why you may wonder, why does my French bulldog cry at night? Well, the endless whining from your Frenchie at night can be unsettling. We are going to help you understand why your Frenchie cries a lot at night. Read on to discover why your French bulldog cries at night, and what you can do about it. Young Frenchies Young puppies are prone to crying at night. Primarily, they suffer from separation anxiety — being detached from her mom, litter-mates, and breeder. Secondly, being a Frenchie, company means the world to them. And while night loneliness cuts across all age groups for French bulldogs, the early years are particularly lonely. This loneliness becomes even more apparent during the night, especially if you are training them to sleep in a crate or a separate bed. Old Frenchies For Frenchies, old age kicks in when they are about six years old. And when that happens, health conditions such as dementia may affect them. One of the first signs of dementia is disturbances in their sleep, which make them restless and leads to crying at night. When Communicating Needs Aside from the obvious need to eat, drink, and do potty that Frenchies are known to communicate by crying, other issues such as extreme silence may bother them. The night crying may also be to communicate pain, the need for attention, or any uncomfortable feeling they get from the night-time environment. They are adapting to a new environment, and the crying may persist up to the fourth week before they can adjust. You can supply them with chew toys in their crates to keep them busy and distracted. Soft music can also help them cope with loneliness. If you suspect they are crying to communicate a need for food, warmth, or water, then you must provide for their obvious needs before you retire to bed. Often, the crying at night is just their way of crying for attention, or saying they want to join you in bed. However, you want to be careful when making that decision for two reasons. One, the habit of sharing a bed with your frenchie, can be difficult to untrain once they get used to it. Two, French bulldogs snore, toss restlessly in their sleep, and fart a lot when asleep. If you are okay with such animal behavior, then let them enjoy your bed. What is your experience of sharing your bed with your frenchie at night? Please let us know in the comments section below. When a puppy has just moved, is in pain, or may have been injured, it is not uncommon for them to cry. It can be challenging as an owner because you may need help figuring out what you can do for them or how to make them feel better. If you have a puppy with special needs, sometimes they need a little different care. You always need to think about why your puppy is trying at night. There are many reasons and plenty of solutions. However, always note that if they are suddenly acting this way for no foreseeable reason, it is always best to seek out the help of a vet. When you are unsure of the cause of any behavior change, always make sure to see a vet. While puppies do cry at night, those with mobility issues or a disability may be more prone to crying at night. This is simply because they are struggling and need you. There are plenty of other potential reasons as to why. It could be as simple as they need to go potty and need your help. Maybe they are hungry or lonely. A common reason for nighttime whining is often hunger, which is not uncommon, even in the healthiest, most well-fed pups. However, if it is not hunger, the reasons can include pain, anxiety, itchiness, and even loneliness. Puppies will usually always have a period of separation anxiety when they settle into new homes, especially on their first night in a new home. This anxiety is usually amplified for a sick, injured, or disabled puppy. We are likely to worry about how long whining like this will last, but look at how you can calm them. Do you have any familiar toys or blankets? Can they sleep in the same room as you, so they know you are there? Consider what you can do to make them feel more comfortable and ensure they feel secure knowing you are there. However, you should always make sure that you do not fuss with them too much, as they could quickly learn that by crying at night, they signal for you to come, which would result in a lifetime of being woken up by cries and whines. Remember, you need to sleep well as well! The reasoning is not complex. If your pup has a disability or recently got injured, they may rely on you a lot and be very codependent. They may cry at night because they are afraid of being alone without you, even though they are not all that alone. Puppies will also usually cry if they need to go to the toilet. Remember that as you toilet train your pup, take into consideration meal times, and try to ensure you schedule their meals, so they do not need to go to the bathroom so much during the night. It will be better for you both to do this. Proper toilet training is also ideal. It can help with crate training and will make vet visits much easier on you if you can get their toilet training perfected and incorporate it with crate training. Any dog expert or dog owner will tell you never to leave your dog to cry at night. Letting them cry will enhance their anxiety and can lead to behavioral problems or even depression. If your dog is unwell or suffers from a disability, letting them cry at night will likely make them anxious or depressed. If you ignore it and do not respond to it appropriately, you could miss when something is wrong later on in their lives. Even if your walls are thick, you, your neighbors, and everyone else will hear it. Of course, if your dog is sick or unwell, you can even make them worse by letting them cry through the night. In some cases, puppies have whimpered through most of the night and can eventually get so stressed and scared that they end up having diarrhea. They can end up walking in it, it gets in their fur, then their mouths, and before you know it, they could be even more unwell. Distress from being left to cry in the night can cause your pup to get anxious at any form of separation, which is the opposite of progress. How to Stop Puppies Crying in a Crate? When you bring a puppy home, you may use a crate, but when you take them to a vet, you may require a crate, so crate training is essential and can be vital to their health and help to make them more comfortable in all situations. When you first bring your puppy home, you can keep it in its crate in your bedroom or that of a family member overnight. This is because dogs are clean animals and never like going to the toilet where they sleep. In their early weeks, they will often need to go to the toilet regularly during the day and the night. Some sick or disabled pups may need to go even more frequently, or need more help going. Being in their crate and near you or a family member can help your puppy know that you are near, and they will be less anxious and less likely to cry at night unless they need to use the toilet. Since they are in your bedroom, you will also be able to respond fast, so if they cry, you can help them to the toilet fast. The Reasons for Puppies Crying at Night If you only recently got your puppy, no matter any additional factors, they may cry at night for other reasons, including gaining a secure attachment with you. This is especially true in the first weeks. You can put them close to you at night, so they know you are there, and you know they are there. Only use a single light source at night so that they can see, but no ominous shadows are there. Some pups will find natural sounds, low-fi, or even classical music soothing, much like we do, and it can help them feel safe and sleep better. However, you should also ensure there are no sharp objects or corners near where they sleep. If they jump up from their sleep, the last thing you want is them hurting themselves in doing so. What We Think Any new pup will be a challenge. However, pups with mobility issues, disabilities, or illnesses can be more of a challenge. Make sure you learn how to best look after them, and speak to a veterinarian to help find out more. Raising a disabled pup can be rewarding as you can watch them conquer their world and restrictions! Related Articles:.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. German Shepherd feet come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and even have their own set of paw problems. The SV standards state that the German Shepherd paws are rounded, short, well-closed and arched. The pads are very hard, but not chapped or too rough. The nails are dark, short, and strong. Dewclaws may appear sometimes on the hind legs and are removed during the first few days after birth. Nails are short and dark. Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed, but are normally left on and accepted. The dewclaws, if any, should be removed from the hind legs. Pads well-cushioned and durable. With short nails, strong and dark in color. Dewclaws are removed from the hindlegs. German Shepherd paws come in three basic shapes: cat shape hare shape webbed feet Each shape is suited to particular tasks and ground. Cat feet The cat-shaped foot is small and has a compact, round form. It is built for balance, endurance, and strength. Hare feet While the cat-shaped foot is compact, a hare-footed dog has two elongated central toes that project out from the rest of the paw. This style of foot is intended for speed and quick movement, especially out of a relaxing position. The elongated toes help propel the body forward with quickness and agility, much like the feet of hares or rabbits. Dog breeds with hare feet include the Whippet, Greyhound, and Borzoi. Webbed feet Webbed footed dogs are those built for swimming, but they are similarily proficient on land and especially boggy or slippery surfaces. Many hunting breeds have webbed feet, for example, the Weimaraner, Portuguese Water Dog, and Labrador Retriever which are all hunting breeds. These German Shepherds have long middle toes hare feet shape and the feet on the right have thick pads. These pads provide them with extra cushioning to protect their bones and joints from the shock of running. The pads also provide insulation from weather extremes and aid in walking on rough surfaces like concrete, rocky ground, or asphalt. The Purpose of the Paw The paw pad is made of keratin, collagen, and fatty tissues to serve a number of useful functions. And the pad supports a GSD with balance, decreasing speed, and quick stopping. Here we see the underside of the paw and the dark paw pad. This is a normal, healthy paw pad. Notice the roughed skin? The thick, coarse tissues that form the paw pads do not freeze as quickly or easily as normal skin, so they are able to withstand freezing temperatures for longer periods but only when necessary. The paws are covered in thick, tough skin that feels like sandpaper when rubbed against the grain of their skin. For working breeds, like the German Shepherd Dog, or dogs that spend much of their time outdoors or on rough ground, the paw pads become calloused and coarse. As the dog develops, their paw pads also become highly perceptive and flexible to the ground beneath their feet, which is why you rarely see a German Shepherd lose their footing and slip. Some owners state their German Shepherd has long feet and long toes, for example, the hare foot type we discussed earlier. Furthermore, each type of foot style gives the German Shepherd an advantage. Take a look at these different feet types. The breed information tells us that shorter, more compact feet are the Standard for German Shepherd Dogs, as this foot type provides the dog with better stability and a strong foundation for athletic abilities. Even the smallest cut or tiniest bit of debris can create a large problem for your dog. Here are a few tips for daily foot care and maintenance that are easy and prevent major foot problems from developing. Trim their nail regularly. Coat Hair Trim Some German Shepherds have longer coats and foot hair that sticks out between the toes. Shorter fur is less likely to collect stickers and rocks. Check Between the Toes Check between the toes for any debris, such as rocks, caked-on mud or twigs. Any debris stuck in the toe area can cause discomfort or skin irritation. Remove the debris with a warm cloth and soapy water. Reapply, especially after walking in the snow, on the blacktop, or rocky ground. First Aid Treatment Have supplies on hand for any minor first aid treatment. Wounds, cuts, and abrasions smaller than half an inch are generally treated at home with a mild antibacterial cleanser and a wrap. And taking care of their paws is a routine and easy task that you can do daily. Common causes of foot sensitivity include: running too often on hard or hot surfaces, unclipped fur between the toe pads which snags irritating objects, and overgrown, painful nails. You can prevent paw sensitivity by taking simple precautions. That means YOU are responsible for their feet and you must stay alert to problems before they need serious medical attention. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Depending on their genetics, diet, and environment, among a variety of other things, German Shepherds will be around 71 to 90 pounds. I used to have my dog checked over every month as a puppy. Suppose you are feeding your GSD dry kibble. To learn more about this topic, check out this article, Do German Shepherds need large breed food? However, for the most part, large paws mean that your dog will be higher in weight and height. This is simply because your larger-sized dog — such as a German Shepherd — needs paws that are large enough to support him. They would look ridiculous, right? Could you also imagine Chihuahua-sized feet on your German Shepherd puppy? I guess not — he would be falling all over the place! Dogs can grow at different speeds, and sometimes their paws may look disproportionate. Certainly not, as he may be about to go through a significant growth spurt. My female German Shepherd is a classic example of this. As an adult, she weighs a massive 88 pounds, and she is exceptionally tall, standing at 27 inches — she is therefore nicely proportioned. However, as you can see from the below pictures, her paws at both 8 and 11 weeks certainly do not appear overly big! At this time, they should be more proportionate and may give a bit more accuracy. Other Ways to Indicate Adult Size and Weight A straightforward way to predict how big your German Shepherd will be is to double his size once he has hit the week mark. Of course, your German Shepherd could be a bit larger than that actual calculation, seeing how many of them continue growing at a slower rate — between 18 months and sometimes up to 2 years old. Here are a few tips and tricks for guessing how big your German Shepherd puppy will end up as an adult: Look at the mom and dad. Even then, the puppy may end up with smaller-sized paws. Paws should not be the only thing to look at as an indicator of height and weight. Look at the skin and how loose it is. Generally, a puppy that has a lot of excess loose skin will have more room to grow. So, if your German Shepherd is a bit on the saggy side, it simply means he will be able to grow into his skin. Lots of loose skin can certainly mean you will have a larger German Shepherd. Use a calculator. They will ask a few simple questions, such as type of breed, how old they are, and how much they weighed at birth. So, are any of these methods accurate? You will need to go to the final paragraph to find the answer! Other Puppy Proportions Some breeds have pretty different proportions. At three months, the corgi pup weighs around 15 pounds. Then, at one year, they are about 25 pounds. These proportions are attributed to their short legs! The Corgi puppy has a lot less body to grow into than a German Shepherd puppy and a lot less leg, too! Because German Shepherds grow very quickly, their paws must adapt early to support them in their growth journey. Final Thoughts German Shepherd puppies have big paws because they are necessary to support this large breed as they grow older. You will need to use a combination of different methods to obtain a better estimate of how large your German Shepherd puppy will eventually be. Do webbed paws offer an advantage? According to Daily Dog Stuff , webbed paws do offer dogs advantages. The webbing creates a larger surface area to paddle through the water, which similarly to a kayak paddle, helps a dog make the most of every stroke. Webbed paws also help dogs navigate through muddy terrain better, as the webbing can help prevent their paws from sinking into the mud. Webbing also allows dogs to dig more effectively. Do webbed paws create any unique medical concerns? Dogs may get yeast or bacterial infections in the folds and creases between their paw pads. If a dog spends a lot of time in water and their paws are not dried off, the moisture that remains between the paw pads can cause the bacteria that naturally reside on their skin to overpopulate, causing an uncomfortable infection. Dogs with webbed paws have a higher chance of getting a paw infection, as the webbing causes their paws to stay wet longer and reduces the airflow between the paw pads, creating an environment that bacteria like to grow in. If your German Shepherd has webbed paws, be sure to clean them out regularly by moistening a paper towel or washcloth and cleaning between each paw pad, then drying out each section with a dry towel after. According to Veterinary Expert , the medical term for a paw infection is Pododermatitis. Upon inspection of an infected paw, owners will observe symptoms such as redness, swelling, bleeding, debris dirt that needs to be cleaned out, or a foreign object that has stuck into the paw , and odors. If you notice your dog exhibiting the aforementioned symptoms Dr. Patty Kuhly of Vet Street recommends scheduling a veterinary appointment for your dog to be examined promptly. Pododermatitis is usually very simple to diagnose and treat. To help prevent your dog from having Pododermatitis, have a towel ready to dry their paws after they swim or spend time in moist conditions, such as playing in the snow, or hiking in muddy terrain. Summary The American Kennel Club breed standard of the German Shepherd does not include webbed feet in the official description.

The goal is to show your dog that all people and pets should be engaged with calmly and respectfully. This is a very dominant breed and so you should take the time to socialize it early to avoid that behavior as much as possible. Socialization will help the dog develop an even temper. This is an important part of raising an American Bulldog. Without socialization, your new dog may be suspicious of all new people and animals, which can lead to unwanted behaviors, such as biting. You can socialize your dog by taking it to public areas and allowing it to have positive experiences with new people and pets. If at a dog park, slowly introduce your dog to the other dogs and people around you while still on the leash. If your dog seems to be friendly, comfortable, and welcomes the interaction, praise it for its good behavior and gradually allow more interaction off-leash and in larger areas. If visiting a breeder to pick out a pup, there are some specific things to look for that can indicate socialization has already begun. Observe how the puppy interacts with its littermates as well as its parents. A shy, withdrawn, or overly cautious pup is probably not well socialized and has not been exposed to a lot of different situations. Remember that when you get a dog you want to avoid bad breeding situations, for example puppy mills. Not only do unethical breeders have inhumane conditions for their dogs and usually inbreed them, but they do not do the early training and socializing of their dogs that is imperative to raising a well-adjusted dog. Each dog will develop their social skills at their own speed, so go as slow as needed. As your dog becomes more socialized and comfortable with new things, you will see that it develops an overall better temperament. Don't forget to introduce cats, children, and anything else that you want your dog to be familiar and comfortable with as well. Take your introductions slow! When introducing your dog to a cat, don't let the animals see each other right off the bat. Keep them in separate rooms and allow them to smell each other under the closed door. After they get used to each other's smell, let them see each other from a distance. Over several days let them get closer to each other on a regular basis, all while keeping a hold of both. Also, know that in some areas there are legal liabilities related to owning this particular breed. There have also been cases of homeowner insurance policies being denied and the breed is actually banned from ownership in some areas. Research the situation in your area before committing to this breed. American Bulldogs are a very intelligent, strong-willed, and frequently stubborn breed. This can make them a challenge to train, especially for first-time dog owners. They will need to know that you are the dominant one in the relationship and training them will require a lot of dedication and patience. It will be beneficial for you and your new pup to train with voice commands as well as hand signals. The upside to training with both of these commands is that if you are in a situation where your dog can't hear you, they can still see what you are asking them to do and can react accordingly. Giving your dog treats or praise when it does something right will help reinforce the behavior. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with this breed, as they enjoy pleasing their owners. Since this breed loves attention from the people that they are bonded with, ignoring your dog when they exhibit bad behavior will work better than other disciplinary measures. When trained and socialized well, American Bulldogs have the tools they need to judge a situation and decide when everything is OK or when they may need to act on their natural guarding instincts. During any sort of training, if you feel overwhelmed or your dog doesn't seem to be learning at a reasonable pace, consult a professional. They will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may be having about the process or techniques that you are using. Before you get an American bulldog, consider how to care for one. How do I care for my American bulldog? You need to give them exercise and train them well. Provide a healthy diet and plenty along with regular groom and a yearly annual exam. But you can do the following things to help the process. Start Training Early As soon as you get an American bulldog, start the training process. These dogs love to learn and can learn quickly. But they can also be protective, so training and socializing them to behave well is essential. Keep reinforcing good behavior so that you can prevent any destructive behavior. And you can use the training to teach new tricks or simply remind your dog of what they already know. Create a schedule and routine for their training, playtime, meals, and sleep. Your routine should work with your schedule, but also consider that American bulldogs will need to be active. The routine should include plenty of time to let your dog run around. Provide Regular Exercise As mentioned, American Bulldogs are very active dogs, so they need time to get out their energy. A great way to do this is to take your dog on a long walk each day. You can play with the dog, or you can let them be on their own. There are plenty of exercise toys that are tough enough for bulldogs as well. Here is our ultimate exercise guide for American bulldogs for tips and tricks to help them focus all that energy. Socialize the Dog Because of their protective nature, American bulldogs need plenty of socialization. They can be great with kids and other pets, but training will help. Here are our best tips for socializing your American bulldog. Have a friend come over to help socialize your dog with people. If your friend has a dog, they can bring the dog to help with socialization. And if not, you can take your dog to a dog park or enroll in a socialization or training class. Give your dog time to interact with other dogs and people, even if you live alone. Then, you can make sure your dog will do well if you pass someone on a walk. Stock Up on Toys If you have to leave your dog for a long time, such as for work, you should have plenty of toys. Some toys to get for your dog include: Ropes Balls Anything your dog can chew on That way, your dog can entertain themselves through the day. The space can be in your backyard, but you should also have room in your home. Give your dog a special spot for their food and water so that they can get to it easily. You may also want to choose a spot without anything valuable. But you should still brush the dog at least once a week to keep their shedding under control. And when you brush your dog, take special care with their wrinkles. That way, you can keep bacteria from building up in those areas. Like the wrinkles in their skin, their ears can have bacteria buildup, which can lead to infections. It also gives you an excuse to see if there are any signs of a problem. If so, you can take your dog to the vet to resolve the issue. Here is our step by step guide on cleaning their ears. Give Regular Baths Another monthly task to help care for an American Bulldog is to give the dog a bath. However, baths are necessary for keeping bacteria from building up on your dog. Trim Their Claws Before or after bathing your dog, you should take the time to trim their claws. That way, you can keep the claws from getting too long. Then, your dog can continue to play and be happy and healthy. These dogs need to eat a lot of protein to support their muscular build and athletic life. This goes for all bulldogs. For tips on how to know how much protein, carbohydrates and fats to feed your American bulldog, read on guide on what to feed a bulldog. Look for food with meat protein as the main ingredient, and consider getting food with omega-3 fatty acids. Keep the carbs low to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. American Bulldogs can develop allergies, so check on those before trying a new food. Visit the Vet Regular vet visits are also helpful in caring for an American Bulldog. You should take your dog to the vet at least once per year, but you can visit more if your dog has problems. The vet can check for symptoms and run tests to detect certain conditions. American Bulldogs are at risk of hip or elbow dysplasia, allergies, and other disorders. Going to the vet each year can help you identify and treat any problems before they become severe. When going through a breeder , ask for a health guarantee to make sure the dog is currently healthy, as well as the mother and the stud. But you can use this information to create a plan of action to help care for your American Bulldog. But there are special considerations, such as allergies or other health issues. Post Views: .If you neglect your American bulldog or fail to give your dog the proper attention and support its needs, this will affect its behavior and even make them more aggressive. Take a look at these tips for taking care of your lovely pet. Provide proper diet American bulldogs are the kind of breed that do not really need special diets, but they are the ones who need the proper amount of food to grow healthy. The best advice is to provide your dog with the right amount of food by watching the weight of the animal and feeding it once a day or every other day, adding some snacks to the food. It should always have access to freshwater, since it is the one that keeps the animal hydrated. When considering food for your bulldog, the best food for this breed is the ones that give the dog the most energy, meaning that the food used should be made of the best ingredients providing the animal with the most nutrients possible. If you are in doubt about the food you are buying, check the labels carefully to make sure that there is no added artificial flavor or harmful preservatives. They are very active, energetic, and high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Providing the right amount of exercise is the most important factor in ensuring that you are properly caring for your American bulldog. The best way to provide the right amount of exercise is to take the dog for a walk every day of the week. On the days you do not go for a walk, play with the dog in the yard or the house. If they have been properly exercised when they are puppies, American bulldogs can be less energetic when they get older and may only need an hour or two of exercise per day instead of the full amount. Another thing that you must do if you want your American bulldog to be well-socialized is to make sure that the people who handle it are friendly and gentle. This means not allowing friends and family members who may be hostile towards dogs into your house and also not allowing just anyone to interact with your American Bulldog. Still, you should use a leash whenever it is outside because there are people who may try to antagonize your dog if they know that it is leashed. If your bulldog bites someone while on a leash, this would be considered self-defense by law. Most American Bulldogs also love the company of other dogs. If you live in a neighborhood where there are a lot of people and their dogs around, then letting your dog run free without a leash is probably not such a bad idea. Of course, this does depend on how well your dog can control its impulses and respond to your commands. For the American bulldog, there are a few health checks that pet owners should regularly do. The first of these is checking for ear infections. Also, check for ticks and fleas, as well as scratching or irritability that can indicate parasites. Another health check to run on your bulldog is making sure they have a healthy weight. Overweight Bulldogs are more likely to suffer from several different diseases such as diabetes and arthritis. Make sure to weigh them regularly and adjust their diet accordingly. In conclusion, it is important to properly take care of an American bulldog if you want them to be healthy and happy. The most important part of this is making sure that they are exercised sufficiently and socialized with the right people and dogs. This also includes running regular health checks on them to make sure that they are safe and healthy. Related Reading. They can keep going for ages, require plenty of exercise and can be very strong. If you live an active lifestyle and are athletic then this dog is probably a good fit for you. They are known for sometimes being difficult around people who they do not know well and it is vital with a young dog or puppy that you bond with them quickly and do as much as you can to get them to like and trust humans. Otherwise there could be problems down the line. If this does not happen then there is a risk that they become overly aggressive, not the best trait in the world, unless you are looking for some sort of savage guard dog! This said, they can also be very loving. Take this as a sign to train your American Bulldog puppy well in the early days. If you do then you will be well rewarded. In this short article we take a look at five tips for taking care of your American Bulldog puppies. Invest in some chew toys It is completely normal for puppies to want to chew and it is good for their tooth development. However, this said, it can be a pain if they decide to chew their way through all of your possessions. Of course it is probably inevitable that you will lose a few things if you have a puppy. However, being aware of it is important so you can limit the amount that you lose. A good thing to do is to invest in some chew toys that the puppy can specifically use to chew on, mitigating the risk of having your other possessions chewed on. These toys should be non toxic and you must make sure that the puppy will not choke on it. Otherwise it can be very simple. Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise We already mentioned that American Bulldogs need a lot of exercise. When the pup is really young he will probably get enough exercise anyway for his size. A short walk should tire him out. However, when the puppy gets older more walks will be needed. Further, all exercise should be monitored and supervised. It allows you to have a good look at him and for him to get used to you. Check the skin, coat, eyes, ears, teeth and tail. The nails may need trimming from time to time. This is an easy thing to learn how to do. The breeder who sold you the dog should be able to advise on how much and how often to feed the puppy. You should continue with the type of food that your puppy has had before gradually weaning it on to the food that you want to give it. Avoid any uncooked meat. It is vital in the early stages that your puppy does not eat anything bad. This could affect its development. Avoid bones at an early stage as they could splinter and hurt your puppy. Healthcare Most American Bulldogs will live long and happy lives as long as their owner looks after them well. Your vet will be able to advise you when it comes to getting the right vaccinations and how often you should get boosters for these. As with people general good healthcare, exercise and good food will prevent illness. Related Articles. They are a medium-sized dog; they are stout and strong and muscular. One of their most recognizable characteristics is their wrinkled face. They also sport a broad face and shoulders, hanging skin around the mouth and neck, and pointed teeth with an under-bite. Their personality should be that of a good-natured dog; not aggressive or vicious. As with any breed, the bulldog does require specific care needs in order to keep him healthy and ensure longevity in his life. Here are seven tips for caring for you bulldog to help him to stay happy and healthy so that both your bulldog, can enjoy a long, happy life together. Diet Proper diet is so important to caring for your bulldog. There are plenty of cheap versions of dog food on the market today and many of them do not put meat first as the first or main ingredient. Your dog needs a well-rounded diet of proteins , fats, carbs and vitamins and minerals. You do not want to overfeed your bulldog no matter what kind of food he is on, as this can quickly cause weight gain for you pet. Bulldogs are short and stalky and being overweight can create knee and gait problems, among other health issues. Bulldogs should be feed two to three small meals a day. Exercise Because bulldogs are medium-sized dogs, they can be comfortable living in a house and even an apartment, with little room to roam inside, however, they will require exercise outside of the home on a regular basis. Playing games with bulldogs also helps to keep their minds sharp and active. Dog parks are perfect places for your bulldog to play. He will benefit by getting exercise as well as socializing with other dogs and people. Bulldogs tend to especially love children, so by socializing your puppy to kids of all ages starting from puppyhood, you will be nurturing that natural, sweet nature in them that they have for children. Once they bond with children in the home, they tend to be protective of them in, which is a plus, for many bulldog owners. Groom your bulldog Bulldogs do not require a whole lot of grooming, but they do shed some. Unlike other breeds that need regular baths, bulldogs do not, unless dirty. They do, however, need to be brushed regularly to help keep the shedding fur from building up and the natural oils in their skin from causing skin issues. Chaffing or dirt that can be cleaned out with a damp rag. Your bulldog should get regular dental care. Health checks Bulldogs are prone to certain medical conditions, such as, laryngeal paralysis, hip dysplasia, deafness, hypothyroidism and more. Getting regular, annual physicals by your vet can help ensure your bulldog is in good health as well monitor your pet for any changes that may be happening as he gets older. Regular vet checks is one way to help prevent health conditions from starting or becoming a bigger issue. Plenty of chew toys Most all dogs need to chew; it is their nature. Chewing serves several purposes: when your bulldog is a puppy, chew toys and bones help your pup get through his teething stage. Like human babies, they need to be able to chew to deal with pain and discomfort, as well as it helps loose baby teeth to fall out. When a dog feels nervous or anxious, or bored, they will be more tempted to pick up a shoe or chew on a piece of furniture if they do not have plenty of their own toys to chew on. Create a space just for them Dogs want to feel secure and comfortable. If they do not have their own space they can go to, to rest, sleep, or escape from a storm or noises, they become anxious and nervous. Your bulldog should have his own designated, comfortable space he knows he can retreat to anytime he wants or needs to. Give him a comfortable dog bed that is just his size where he can find toys nearby, maybe a blanket that is all his, he can curl up with. If you crate your bulldog, make it comfortable for him inside so that he knows he can go in freely to rest and retreat whenever he wants. Bulldogs are a great family dog that are more than willing to love all family members, and love attention back. They can be quite the cut-up and keep their owners on their toes with their funny dispositions. It is no wonder why bulldogs rank so high on the AKC registry , because they are just all around, good dogs to have for a pet. You can also read:. She may prefer to be an only dog. The American Bulldog was first bred as a powerful and athletic all-purpose working dog, used to catch hogs and cattle. They are typically gentle and loving family companions, but may not tolerate other dogs, especially those of the same sex. They require early training and socialization and have a high energy level. American Bulldogs are generally healthy with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Bulldog. By knowing about health concerns specific to American Bulldogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in American Bulldogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for American Bulldogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your AmBull looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your American Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections American Bulldogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in American Bulldogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Bulldog is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for American Bulldogs Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Clinical signs usually appear in younger dogs, between around one to three years of age. In the early stages, rear leg weakness and imbalance can occur. It can progress to weakness involving all four legs, and some dogs also lose vision. There is currently no effective treatment for this disease, but a genetic test is available. Dogs carrying the mutation should not be used for breeding since it is readily passed to future generations. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually simple: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Ichthyosis Dry, flaky, itchy skin is a common problem for many dogs, but AmBulls, in particular, are prone to a severe flaking skin condition called ichthyosis. Named for the large dry flakes that resemble fish scales, this problem usually arises very early in life, with most affected puppies born with abnormal skin. Several palliative treatment options like special shampoos and fish oils give variable levels of relief, but there is no definitive cure for this inherited disease. There is a genetic test available for many breeds that can determine whether he is clear, a carrier, or affected. This is important information if you are planning to use your friend for breeding, as it is not recommended to breed dogs who are affected or carriers; the goal is to prevent this debilitating disease in future generations. Eyelid Abnormality Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea surface of the eyeball. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness. It can happen in any dog breed; however, your Bulldog is especially at risk for this heritable disorder. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early. Bladder or Kidney Stones There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and American Bulldogs are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Call us immediately! Taking Care of Your American Bulldog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your AmBull live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Very easy to groom, her short coat requires only occassional brushing. Clean her nasal folds at least weekly. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a sturdy fence is a must. American Bulldogs love to be with their family and they are adaptable to many living situations as long as they are given adequate exercise. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your American Bulldog needs help. Office Calls Give us a call at for an appointment if you notice any of these types of signs: Change in appetite or water consumption Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth Itchy skin scratching, chewing or licking , hair loss Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes Dull coat, hair loss, sluggish, weight gain Dry, scaly, sometimes itchy hairless patches on face or paws Emergencies Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these types of signs: Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes General reluctance to run or play Loud breathing, tires easily at exercise. Low History of the American Bulldog English bulldogs were originally used for bull baiting in 17th century England, a gruesome sport involving dogs fighting bulls. The practice has since been eliminated, and bulldogs dazzled their way into the lives of families across England even becoming a national symbol. English bulldogs were brought to North America to use their strength and determination as farm dogs. Farmers bred them with other working dogs to get the best all-around breed for their specific jobs. Their intelligence, loyalty, and agility made them helpful for both herding and hunting. Thanks to two determined breeders, John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, these dogs were repopulated and went on to become the popular companions they are today. As the breed developed, American bulldogs were known as friendly pets that were a must for families across North America. Their intimidating looks and strength made them a great breed to represent competitive sports teams. Bulldog baseball mascot, May .In the grooming department, these short-haired dogs don't require much aside from basic care. Exercise American bulldogs do best with at least an hour of exercise per day, which owners can provide through daily walks or playing in the yard. Along with helping your dog maintain its health and a suitable weight, exercise is a great way to keep this breed mentally stimulated. Without enough exercise, American bulldogs are prone to find their own entertainment—which can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture or getting into off-limits items at home. This breed is best suited for active families that enjoy plenty of playtime with their dogs. Your American bulldog will be happy to join you on walks, runs, hikes, and games like fetch or tug-of-war. These dogs typically enjoy grooming, and weekly brushing will significantly help owners manage shedding. Though their coat is relatively low-maintenance, American bulldogs are known to have issues with excess drool. Their slobber is natural; just be sure to keep any wrinkles free from excess moisture to avoid bacteria buildup or infections. Like other dogs, American bulldogs require regular baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to avoid overgrowth and pain, while ears should be cleaned as needed to prevent infections. Training Consistent training is a must for this breed. American bulldogs are naturally protective sometimes to a fault , but they do love to learn. Training your dog in basic obedience can begin as early as six to eight weeks of age, and socialization is necessary once puppies have received the necessary vaccines to be safe in public. American bulldogs can need a helping hand when it comes to acceptable behavior around strangers and other animals. This will help your dog become a friendly companion and avoid unnecessary aggression. Since these dogs do best with love and attention from their owners, they also respond very well to positive reinforcement methods. Offer treats, affection, and playtime as rewards for desired behavior. Training should be consistent and ongoing throughout the dog's life. Responsible breeders will test prospective parent dogs before breeding to avoid passing these problems down to puppies. The following are conditions to be aware of with this breed: Elbow and Hip Dysplasia : Common in large dog breeds, dysplasia is caused by a malformation in the dog's joints as they age. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: This hereditary disorder affects your dog's central nervous system. Genetic tests can determine whether this disease is present in specific bloodlines. Allergies : American bulldogs can develop allergies caused by an overactive immune system. While many puppies grow out of it, these symptoms are manageable in older dogs. Your veterinarian may recommend a food allergy test if symptoms like redness, itchy skin, or licking paws are present. Avoid overfeeding to prevent unnecessary weight gain , which can cause joint issues. Your veterinarian may also recommend omega-3 fatty acids for joint health. Along with maintaining the proper nutrients, it's important to be aware of any food allergies your dog may have if they struggle with red, itchy skin. Talk to your veterinarian to determine a suitable diet and portion sizes for your dog based on their age, weight, activity level, and specific medical needs. Allergy tests provide the most definitive results, but owners can also slowly switch between different protein options to find the best results. Where to Adopt or Buy an American Bulldog American bulldogs are a popular breed in many regions of the United States, so finding this breed shouldn't be a major challenge for prospective adopters. Check your local shelters to meet American bulldogs in need of forever homes in your area, or reach out to breed-specific rescues to meet a variety of dogs. If you're set on starting with a puppy, it's essential to research responsible breeders before adopting. Always ask for a health guarantee and the litter's family medical history. The right breeder should also allow you to meet the litter's parents and see the conditions in which their dogs are kept. To start your search, check out these resources for breed-specific rescues, the national breed club, and the AKC:.

Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Long-haired GSDs are perfect for those who love fluffy German shepherd puppies. Plus, the rarity of the breed makes each long-haired German shepherd puppy more expensive than most, benefiting the breeders. However, among all the breeds of German shepherds, long-haired German shepherds are one of the most questionable breeds. Luckily, this blog post answers most of the common questions asked by people looking for long haired German shepherds for sale. German shepherds have been recognized since the s. But even then, long-haired GSDs are still frowned upon. Since then, these fluffy German shepherds have been called many names, the most popular being long coat German shepherd. While the long coat of the fluffy German shepherds adds an element of elegance, it also brought them some disadvantages. But, long-haired German shepherds are an exception because it is, in fact, a genetic flaw. The long-hair recessive gene is a rare trait that even selective breeding cannot guarantee. Since the long-haired gene is recessive, these fluffy German shepherds are considered as an exotic breed and a genetic fault at the same time. This is why many dog owners may not know them well or even know that they exist. Even the variants of long-haired GSDs such as the sable long-haired German shepherd are not accepted in such events. The structure of long haired German shepherds is identical to the standard breed. So their measurements are typically the same. Coat Length — Obviously, long-haired German shepherds have longer hairs. Additionally, their individual hairs are thinner than that of standard GSDs. This is the most obvious way to distinguish a long-haired German shepherd puppy from a standard GSD. But there are more differences other than the length. However, due to the absence of an undercoat, fluffy German shepherd puppies may have a shinier coat than your normal pooch. You may also find this very noticeable with sable long-haired German shepherds since their individual hairs consist of many colors. Lack of Undercoat — The majority of long-haired shepherd breeds do not have an undercoat. While the American Kennel Club only accepts those with undercoats, there are some fluffy German shepherd puppies that have double coats. Regardless, this means short-haired GSDs have more hair than long-haired German shepherd puppies. This takes us to the common misconception about long-haired GSDs. In fact, they shed less than their short-haired cousins. Those are just the physical difference between short- and long-haired shepherd breeds. Remember that there are also differences in their behavior. Just like other breeds of German shepherds, long-haired German shepherds have the personality to qualify them as family companions. They are loving, protective, intelligent, and trainable. They need enough room to be comfortable, so taking them for walks is crucial. But, long-haired German shepherds differ in some aspects. The most popular difference between the personality of these fluffy German shepherds with the standard GSD is they are calmer. They will still struggle with getting along with strangers. The Health of a Long-Haired German Shepherd The long-haired German shepherd is prone to the same health issues faced by the standard breed. Hip dysplasia, digestive problems, back pain, and more. So it may be helpful to check the pedigree of the long-haired German shepherd puppies. However, some health issues are the result of reckless breeding methods. This takes us to the developed health issues. This may include eye problems, digestive problems, and skin conditions. These may also be the result of poor grooming practices and inadequate diet. They can still live anywhere from 9 to 13 years, the same as other German shepherd breeds. Just as usual with dogs, long-haired German shepherds can show promising results when properly taken care of. They also require the same care from their owners that is normally done to the standard German shepherds, with some differences. They can be emotionally unstable when left alone because they need constant contact with their owners. The best partners for these fluffy German shepherds are those that regularly go outside to exercise since you can take your dog with you. Maybe four to six times a week. But, there are some things you need to know first right before buying. So doing a lot of research to look for a proper breeder will surely pay off. The Bottom Line True, these fluffy German shepherds are lovable creatures. This includes their origins, description, temperament, health, and more importantly, how to take care of one. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. They will grow to similar sizes with the males from both varieties being larger than the females. Both dogs will require the same amount of exercise around two hours a day. Separation anxiety is an issue that is prevalent in both types of GS. They both have a protective and possessive nature — this will be particularly apparent when looking after their family. Both are susceptible to the same health conditions: hip dysplasia and heart disease. As long as you buy both from responsible breeders who use healthy dogs to breed, they should have similar lifespans. The Short Haired German Shepherd has a double coat that consists of an outer coat and an undercoat. The medium-length coat is usually covered by an undercoat, or guard coat. Other long-haired GSDs only have a long, single-layer coat, with a missing undercoat. If a German Shepherd is lacking an undercoat, it is considered defective by the AKA and will not be allowed to participate in their exhibitions. Thanks to their double coat that protects them from cold and is waterproof, the Short Haired German Shepherd is more suited to working outside and to work in general. Due to their aptitude for working, the Short Haired German Shepherd is more likely to behave in an aloof manner to strangers. The breed was refined by Captain Max Von Stephanitz to be the breed we know and love today. They are well known for their movie roles such as Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart. It was appearances like this that helped to bring the breed back into favor after the First World War. These dogs are loyal until the end. They form extremely strong bonds with their family members and would protect them with their life. This devotion sometimes leads to an aloof nature with strangers. They are highly energetic dogs and need at least two hours of exercise every day. This pup loves joining you on walks, hikes, runs, bike rides, swims and any activity really. You name it and a GSD has probably done it. As their coat has that double layer, the Short Haired German Shepherd is much more suited to being out in colder, wetter weather. Brushing them two to three times a week should help remove some of the loose hair but you are still going to find fur everywhere. During shedding season. During this time of the year, you need to brush them every day. Photos Appearance and Size This is an athletically built dog. They should stand between 22 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 50 to 90 lbs. Males are generally larger than females and have a distinctly masculine look. They have a long muzzle and ears that face forward and stand erect. Their back should be straight, the slope that we have seen develop over the past years is incredibly bad for the health of the dog. They have a double coat. The outer layer should be dense and close to the body. It is preferred to be straight but a slight wave is allowed in the breed standard. The coat colors are generally black, black and tan, red and black, sable and grey. Breeders prefer darker, richer colors and many light colorations are not accepted by the breed standard. Temperament Short Haired German Shepherds are prized for their character and temperament. They are an allrounder that are able to complete almost any task you set them. This is why they have excelled as working dogs in many fields, including the police and the military. This dog is fiercely loyal and protective — they will look out for their family and are always alert. They may be slightly too possessive at times and this can cause them to be aloof towards strangers. Short Hair GSD tends to have a one-track mind and this is why they are so effective as working dogs. You should always use positive reinforcement methods when training a German Shepherd. These are incredibly intelligent dogs who want to please you. Rewarding them with treats and praise when they do what you ask will get better results than not rewarding them or punishment. One thing that they struggle with is separation anxiety. Their excessive devotion can cause them to feel anxiety when you are not around. They will bark and chew up furniture. Unfortunately, many German Shepherds do end up in shelters. Lifespan A healthy German Shepherd should live between 10 to 13 years. Health concerns you should be aware of are hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, heart conditions, and eye conditions. Having pet insurance could also save you from the headaches of going to the vet. You could get reimbursed for every vet bill! What Is a Sable German Shepherd? This is also the most dominant gene in the German Shepherd genetics. All of the first German Shepherds were sable colored. Sable color actually means that the coat is multi-colored and has black tips. It can appear on any base coat. In the German Shepherd breed, this is usually red or tan. Instead, you can hear them use the term German Shepherd Agouti. These dogs can grow up to be between 24 and 26 inches depending on whether you have a female or a male GSD , respectively. Females can weigh between 55 and 73 lbs, while males can reach a weight of 95 lbs! This makes them significantly larger than females. Sable German Shepherds come in various color patterns. However, the most common ones are liver on cream, black on cream, black on red, and sometimes even silver on cream. Most, if not all sable German Shepherds change their coat color as they age. In fact, before they reach adulthood, they will change color several times! Usually, sable German Shepherds will be born with a solid black coat. As they reach 8 weeks of age, however, their color will become lighter. Still, until they are fully grown, their coat color might darken again, or become lighter over time. This makes it hard for sable German Shepherd breeders to confirm the exact shade that your new puppy will be. You can get a general idea of what your sable German Shepherd puppy will look like by looking at his parents. However, if his parents are in quite different colors, then predicting the adult coat color can be challenging. Overall, though, your puppy should keep the markings it has when it is very young. The only thing that will change is the shade of its base coat, and sometimes some individual hairs might become lighter or darker. Are Sable German Shepherds Rare? They are not a crossbreed, and the sable gene exists in all GSD bloodlines. This makes them a lot rarer than standard black and tan German Shepherds, although they are still not considered rare — at least not red and tan sable GSDs. Still, if a base color is rare, that makes the sable variation of it even rarer. For example, silver sable German Shepherds are quite rare, while tan sable German Shepherds are fairly common. The rarest combination of all is recessive black. In fact, this is the rarest of all German Shepherd colors , whether sable or not. These pups look just like solid black German Shepherds , but they carry tan or sable genes hidden in their bloodlines. They can easily be confused with black German Shepherds. Overall, the only thing that makes sable German Shepherds different from any other German Shepherd is their coat color. Sable GSDs resemble wolves in that each individual hair has a black tip. Standard sable German Shepherds have a mixture of tan and black coloration. Other than wolves, it is found in only a few dog breeds. It is known that the agouti gene controls the sable color in these dogs. German Shepherds, just like other dog breeds, can come in many colors and patterns. In fact, many coat colors are considered faults and, as a result, they are not acceptable by most major kennel clubs. Some coat colors are unacceptable because they are connected with an increased risk of certain health problems. This is usually the case with white or merle coats. These colors are caused by genes connected with vision and hearing loss, so intentional breeding is frowned upon. The same goes for the white German Shepherd. Both of these colors are forbidden by kennel clubs. Photo from: nala. This is because the sable pattern has always been inside the GSDs genetics. The AKC recognizes light and darker sable colors, black sable, and bi-color sable dogs. Despite this, you can conclude that sable is a perfectly acceptable German Shepherd color. Still, there is one important thing to note. While sable German Shepherds are recognized by kennel clubs, it is unheard of that a sable GSD has won or even participated in a dog show or any type of dog competition. This is because the judges favor standard black and tan and black and red German Shepherds. Because of this, most sable GSDs come from working lines and not from show lines. It consists of a base coat with black or darker tips. This is because black and tan German Shepherds are quite common as it is. Some of these pups might appear brindle at a first sight, but upon closer inspection, you would notice how they actually have black tips instead of stripes. Because of their shade, which is something in between red, brown, and yellow, many dog lovers confuse tan sable German Shepherds with golden sable German Shepherds. In fact, according to many German Shepherd owners, red sable is probably the most unique and gorgeous GSD coat color. The bright red coat color looks striking when combined with black tips. Black Sable German Shepherd When talking about black sable German Shepherds, we have to mention that there is a distinction between classic black sable and recessive black sable pups. Black sable dogs look like a dark shade of sable. While not entirely black, the majority of their coat will be very dark in shade, with a few brighter spots peeking out of this dark coat color. Black sable German Shepherds are among rarer sable GSDs, but there are still many breeders that reproduce them, so you can find them fairly easily. On the other hand, recessive black sable German Shepherds look very similar to solid black GSDs, except they are a bit lighter in shade. If you look very closely, you could see that their undercoat is similar to a very dark shade of brown instead of being fully black. Recessive black sable GSDs are extremely rare. While they appear black in color, they actually carry a sable gene, so they can produce sable or black and tan offspring. Because this type of black sable is a recessive gene, there are almost no breeding programs that specialize in this particular shade. Blue is the dilution of the black pigment caused by a specific blue dilution gene. Your GSD can have a coat of any other color with the exception of black and still be considered blue. Yes, all blue German Shepherds will have a blue nose. The same goes for the blue sable. Their eyes will usually be of lighter color. Sometimes, they can even be blue. As the blue dilution gene is recessive, this coat shade can be quite rare. Liver Sable German Shepherd Just like blue German Shepherds, liver German Shepherds are also the result of a recessive dilution gene — except that this particular gene dilutes the black color into a deep brown shade. Instead, the hair tips and markings will be dark brown. Most importantly, liver sable German Shepherds will have a black nose, amber or green eyes, as well as brown lips and eye rims. Because this coat color resembles that of a wolf, it is also known as wolf grey. These pups can have black markings over grey, or even grey over silver. This is a unique color combination for German Shepherds, with or without the sable pattern. Also, instead of a black mask and black saddle markings, these pups will sometimes have markings that are grey in color. Because of such color overlap, some experts think that silver sable German Shepherds and grey sable German Shepherds should be considered as the same coat color. Golden Sable German Shepherd Golden sable German Shepherds have a pale tan or yellow base color which, when combined with black tips, makes them look as if they are made of gold. The easiest way to tell whether your pup is a yellow liver or golden color is to look at its nose color. While liver GSDs will have a brown nose, golden ones will always have a black nose, as well as dark eyes. While many things have remained unclear, this we do know: The sable coloring is caused by the dominant gene that can be written as AW AW. All of these color genetics are recognized by the SV. The SV is the breed standard set by von Stepanitz, and this remains something that all other breeders look up to. They are the result of the mutation of the original genes. Still, not all sable dogs are AW AW. Some carry recessive genes in them — for example, AW a , a German Shepherd that would appear sable but could have a recessive solid black offspring. The sable gene is the most dominant color gene in German Shepherds. In other words, all dogs with the AW allele will appear sable, even though they might have an offspring in some other color. Many dog lovers want to know if dogs of a certain color are more at risk of getting some severe health problem. The agouti gene is responsible for the sable color. In other words, the way you or the breeders treat dogs is how they will behave. A puppy that grew up with loving human parents will likely become a well-behaved, polite dog. However, if you abuse your dog, he will become aggressive. Of course, socialization is necessary for German Shepherds as they are large and protective dogs. Still, this is entirely up to the owner and not to the sable coat color — or any other coat color for that matter. Sable German Shepherd Temperament Sable German Shepherds are bred to be working dogs, such as police dogs and service dogs, and not show dogs. This means that they might be a bit more used to harsh working conditions, and that they are not as used to being indoor dogs as black and tan or black and red GSDs — although this slight difference in temperament is barely noticeable. This means that it is a very intelligent dog that is effortless and straightforward to train. He can learn new tricks in no time. Keep in mind that you should make sure your German Shepherd gets lots of not just physical exercise, but also plenty of mental stimulation. Sable GSDs can get bored easily, and this can result in bad behaviors. Unfortunately, this also means that sable GSDs are prone to separation anxiety if left alone. Separation anxiety can lead to many destructive behaviors, and your furniture or walls might suffer. While GSDs are serious working dogs, they are full of love and have a silly side to them. This also means that sable German Shepherds do great with children — but under one condition. Your kids need to know how to behave around such large dogs. While sable GSDs are patient, they have their limits, and they might snap if children go overboard. Dogs have much keener hearing than humans. If your kids are too loud for you, they are unbearable to your pet. Also, sable German Shepherds are large dogs. Other than that, sable German Shepherds make amazing family dogs that will bring joy and a feeling of security to every family member. Long-Haired Sable German Shepherd You might think that the only difference between a short-haired and a long-haired sable German Shepherd is in the length of their fur, but there is more to this. This makes them less capable of dealing with cold winter weather, unlike their cousins with double coats. Because of this, long-haired sable German Shepherds are more accustomed to indoor living, so they are calmer and more used to being around their humans all the time. Not just that, but long-haired German Shepherds of any color are not accepted by the AKC, and therefore, cannot participate in dog shows. All of this makes long-haired sable German Shepherds a lot more mellow compared to standard short-haired sable GSDs. Most long-haired GSD owners have reported that their pooches are cuddlier and friendlier than regular German Shepherds. If you want to get a sable German Shepherd with the sole purpose to be an amazing family pet, you might want to consider getting a long-haired one. They are still prone to any health problem that standard GSDs have. The most common of these issues is hip dysplasia. This causes pain and difficulty in walking. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, and not much can be done to prevent it entirely. However, environmental factors are important for the progression of this health condition, so there are some things you can do to keep it under control. Think of hip dysplasia as arthritis in humans. In fact, severe hip dysplasia can lead to a specific type of arthritis in sable German Shepherds. Make sure your German Shepherd is active so his bones and joints are well formed. Active dogs are less prone to any orthopedic condition, and hip dysplasia is no different. One of the best activities you can make your German Shepherd do is swim. Feed him only high-quality dog food. There are plenty of affordable, yet healthy dog food brands on sites such as Amazon. Good dog foods have to have lots of protein and not as many carbs. This will make sure that your doggie is energetic and healthy. You might also consider replacing store-bought dog treats that are high in bad nutrients with healthy alternatives from your kitchen. Sure, some human foods such as anything spicy can be harmful for your pet. However, tuna , fish sticks , or peppers , can be very beneficial for your four-legged friend. Another important thing is to never miss vet check-ups. If you identify any health issue early on, you have a greater chance of preventing further disease development. Of course, you should always buy from reputable breeders who can tell you the precise health history of the parent breeds. As many diseases that plague German Shepherds are genetic, a puppy born from healthy parents will have fewer chances of getting sick. While sable German Shepherds are prone to a few more health conditions, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA and bloat, they have a decent lifespan, and most live more than 11 years. As they grow older, however, the sable coloring will become more obvious. Despite the sable gene being dominant, this can become a bit tricky. You can never know at least not without extremely expensive genetic testing! In other words, you might breed two sable German Shepherd dogs and end up with a black and tan puppy. This is another reason why not many breeders dare to specialize in breeding them. However, quality dogs with good bloodlines tend to be more expensive. Some might end up costing thousands of dollars! While this might sound like too much money to pay, there is one thing to keep in mind: reputable breeders have a reason behind the high price of their puppies. Responsible breeders will conduct all the necessary health testings of their parent dogs as well as all puppies from the litter. They will do all they can to ensure that their dogs are healthy, so they can sell you only high-quality pups. Not just that, but they usually begin training and socializing their puppies when they are only a few weeks old. This means that the chances of your dog misbehaving or acting out of the ordinary are very slim. However, they are usually people who have ended up with an unwanted litter that they now want to sell. This means that the chances of you getting an unhealthy or misbehaving dog are quite high. Places to certainly avoid are pet shops and puppy mills. Dogs bred at puppy mills tend to have plenty of health problems. Adopting a dog is certainly the most ethical and humane thing that any aspiring dog owner can do. However, there are a few risks with adopting dogs. First off, you need to look for trustworthy adoption centers. Such locations will make sure that their dogs are healthy and evaluated before they are sent off to their new home. Also, you can never be entirely certain on the background of your new dog, both medical and environmental wise. You might end up with a dog that has a hidden genetic defect or an abused dog who needs additional socialization. Some people can agree upon this, and this is a risk worth taking. These dogs make amazing and loyal family pets, and they can even be great nanny dogs for your kids. However, you need to be aware that these are large and active dogs. They need to learn how to behave around small children and other pets. They need lots of exercise and mental stimulation in order to behave, and you have to provide this to them. If you have kids, then another important thing is to teach them how to respect their new family member. Sable German Shepherds are known to love to have some space from time to time. In the end, the perfect dog breed for you only depends on your preferences and what you can provide for your new pet. If you want a fluffy and loyal family member and you are ready to commit to him, then a sable German Shepherd is an excellent choice. Post navigation. The sable working line German Shepherd is less prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and is typically healthier due to stricter health screening than typical American Show Line GSDs. Sable German Shepherd Behavior Unfortunately, only a few studies have been carried out regarding the connection between color and the behavior of these dogs. It is commonly believed that the Agouti gene is responsible for the sable color of this German Shepherd. Other factors affect behavior which include nature and nurture. The way a dog is treated and raised plays a significant role in determining his health and behavior. To train a sable German Shepherd, start young, use positive reinforcement or reward-based techniques such as treats or extra playtimes, and redirect bad behavior. Use short, effective timeouts for poor behavior, ignore demand barking, pawing, and jumping, and never yell or use physical punishment. Positive Reinforcement Sable German Shepherds are very intelligent dogs that are easy to train because of their exceptional qualities. Teaching them from a young age using positive reinforcement or reward-based techniques proves very impactful as they allow you to build a strong relationship of love and trust between yourself and your dog. This can include either verbal praise, toys, playtime, or their favorite treats, all of which make them more likely to repeat the behavior upon which you praised them. Patience Sable German Shepherds can be a little stubborn and therefore should not be disciplined by punishment or scolding. Practicing patience and consistency is the most crucial factor in the training and reinforcement of a dog because aggressive methods never prove effective. Position Yourself as a Caring Guide With Authority One of the most valuable things you can do for your German Shepherd is establish yourself as a good leader. Your GSD knows you are not a dog and would never see you as a competitor. Therefore, he should feel comfortable and safe with you in an environment of love and trust. Other Tips Using brains and not brawn to train your German Shepherd is the kind of leadership needed. You also need to understand that your dog is not a human, and you are the one who needs to get on his level and speak his language while training him. Punishing him after hours of messing up will have no educational impact because he will not connect the dots. You need to test various techniques and strategies before committing to the one that works best for your GSD. Does Sable Color Affect Health? Although there is a lack of research in this domain, some studies have found that there might be a relationship between the color of a dog and its health. Depigmentation usually seems to affect the health of animals, including dogs, and animals having loss of pigmentation tend to be more nervous. Furthermore, depigmentation that causes both a white coat and pale eye color is usually linked with neurological and other types of disorders. This can be seen in the examples of other breeds, as studies show that specific colors of English Cocker Spaniels are more aggressive, and some shades of Labrador Retriever are known to have longer lifespans. However, these studies cannot be applied to all animals, including the sable German Shepherd. Because of their large size and active lifestyle, they have hips that may give out. Therefore, it is vital to give them a diet that consists of all the essential nutrients. Not only is feeding them food appropriate for large breeds recommended, but it is also fundamental to give them the right amount of food. The suggested serving sizes based on age are usually recommended on the packaging of different foods. You must also take care of your dog physically by taking him for a checkup every year. Preventive health care holds paramount importance in their case, as you can avoid many problems by diagnosing emerging complications at the root level. Do Sable German Shepherds Shed? Sable German Shepherds shed continuously and more during the Spring and Fall when they change their undercoat. They have either a medium or a long coat, both of which are double coats. They have a coarse guard layer and a soft, dense undercoat underneath, which helps to keep them warm. Due to this, these dogs are not suitable for those with allergies. Brushing your German Shepherd properly always helps in controlling shedding. Brushing a medium-coated Sable German Shepherd twice a week proves enough to make his coat manageable. However, a dog with longer hair requires more effort, as his coat needs to be brushed every day to prevent the formation of knots and tangles. Dog grooming specialists also advise de-shedding tools like the FURminator from Amazon, as they can reach the undercoat and remove loose hair quickly and safely. It is the tool that I also use and highly recommend. Pigment cells play a significant role in determining the color of the sable German Shepherd. It is, therefore, not possible to know the eventual color of the sable German Shepherd until he has fully matured, which is unlike any other German Shepherd variety. But what about conformation? Can I enter my sable GSD in a dog show? Sable German Shepherds can be qualified in shows. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that most colors are accepted, but strong, rich colors are preferred. Pale colors, blues, and liver are severe faults, and a white GSD is completely banned from the show ring. Sable German Shepherds are a rare breed and are, therefore, more expensive than other popular colors. Their rare coat color makes them stand out from other dogs and is a reason for their higher price. If this amount turns out to be out of your price range, you can always adopt them from local shelters , as there might be some sable German Shepherds looking for a warm home. Final Thoughts Sable German Shepherds are loyal and loving dogs and are distinguished from other kinds because they possess the Agouti gene that gives them a wonderful coat. Not only do they make excellent members of the family, but they are also great at working and guarding. Furthermore, they make excellent companions for physical tasks because of their active lifestyle, but they have high grooming and exercise needs, like all GSDs. Despite that, you will love spending time with your sable German Shepherd because of his loving nature and temperament. Related Posts You May Like:. These dogs are perfect for special needs, families, emotional support, veterans, and more. Our Long Coat German Shepherds look incredible and are bred from some of the best bloodlines originating from Germany. Take a look at the long coat German Shepherd puppies and adult dogs that we currently have available here at Regis Regal. Long Haired German Shepherd Adults For most people it's probably fairly easy to determine what a long coat German Shepherd is - it simply refers to the length of their fur. Whilst a "standard" German Shepherd will traditionally have short fur, long coats are the result of a recessive gene that any dog can carry. It doesn't mean long coats have any problems - far from it, and for many people they are an even more desirable dog than the standard breed German Shepherd. Long haired German Shepherds look incredibly handsome, and if you're happy with the additional effort required in grooming them and keeping their hair in good condition then they're as loyal and obedient as any other German Shepherd. With our private courier service, we can safely deliver your puppy to all fifty states with utmost love and care. More information here on the long-coat puppies we currently have available for sale. What is their Temperament Like? There is no discernible difference between the temperament of a long coat German Shepherd and a normal short coat dog. For a long time they've been unfairly labeled as being difficult, but sadly this really stems from them not being accepted due to falling outside the normal breeding standard. The Long haired German Shepherds we've raised here at our top breeding facility in Illinois. Our specialized trained dogs have gone on to be used as search dogs, rescue dogs, police dogs, service dogs and therapy dogs. There's no reason long coats can't perform as well or better than short coats since they do look quite incredible at the same time! Whilst a long coat can be a far more desirable dog for some people, when it comes to price they can actually work out around the same price, or even cheaper, than a standard or "normal coat" German Shepherd. The dogs we breed and train here at Regis Regal come from some of the best bloodlines in the world. We conduct Schutzhund training to develop desirable traits including confidence, desire to work, and self-control. Inquire about one of our Long Coat German Shepherds If you would like additional information about our prestigious long coat German Shepherds or our available puppies and service dogs for special needs, please contact us at or regisregal gmail. Your name. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

But as wonderful as it is, raising a pug puppy has its difficulties. One of the most persistent problems to arise is the tendency most pug puppies have is to cry. This article will explain why puppies cry and some tips on how to stop the crying. Why is My Pug Puppy Crying? Pug puppies cry because they feel lonely and isolated after being separated from their siblings and their mothers. Natural puppy crying could be related to physical or emotional needs that pertain to pain, fear, boredom, hunger, or full a full bladder. Pugs are naturally inquisitive, active, curious, and social. They like to be in the thick of the action around the house. They can play all day, exploring their environment and familiarizing themselves with the world, all while tumbling over their siblings and playmates. At night, they can doze off peacefully with their loving family members at their sides. Puppies cry at night because they miss being close to their mother and siblings. Once you have taken your pug puppy home, this whole dynamic changes. The pup will likely play all day, happy to have you as its new companion. At night, however, your pug will feel anxious without its mother and siblings. The plaintive cries of your young pug will be painful for you to hear. This article will explain why some Pugs never grow out of this crying phase. Every parent is different, some will say let them cry and they will eventually stop. If you put your puppy in the bed with you, it will be harder to get them used to sleeping by themselves and may be more prone to separation anxiety as they grow. Some people believe that punishing or leaving the puppy alone to cry will make them tougher. They can also grow into a frightened dog that is harder to socialize and may develop other behavioral problems. If your puppy is crying at night, put their crate next to your bed to make them feel safe. They will still be close to you, but they are still sleeping in their own bed. This may make your puppy feel safer and feeling less homesick. Pug puppies have their own unique personalities and some will take longer to stop crying while others may not cry very much. As a new Pug owner, you should understand what Pug puppies are like , so you understand the breed better. Within a few weeks or maybe even a few days, your puppy should become accustomed to its new lifestyle and the crying should stop. Dogs are quick to accept people as their new family, and they will forget all about their painful separation. A puppy that cries at night may be bored, hungry, or may just want some attention. Puppies need a lot more attention than adult dogs, especially, when they first arrive at your home. If your puppy is crying during the day, find time to spend time with them. Puppies are like toddlers and need to stay busy to keep active. This can be a great time to start training your puppy and teaching them simple commands. Your pup will enjoy the time you spend with them and will start to bond with you. They are in an unfamiliar environment, which can cause them to whimper and cower behind furniture instead of greeting visitors or other family members. This survival instinct is ingrained into puppies whenever they are separated from their mothers. They instinctly learn how to be more cautious of their surroundings. Have that person enter the room more slowly and let the puppy approach them rather than the person trying to approach the pup. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know, especially, if this if your first time having a puppy. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should get your puppy to the vet as soon as possible. Separation Anxiety Over Beloved People Once a pug has overcome their anxiety at being separated from their litter, they might well form a new unbreakable attachment to their human family. But once that connection is formed, the pup might start to cry in a similar way whenever it is separated from you. This can be an especially persistent problem at night, when the puppy is expected to sleep in its own bed. It might desperately want to sleep next to its new mama or papa. This behavior is understandable, but it is certainly not ideal in the long term. Luckily, there are measures you can take as a responsible and caring pug owner to deal with this problem and keep your puppy as happy as can be. How to Handle a Crying Pug Pup Never punish or yell at your puppy for crying, as it will make them scared of you. The single best way to deal with a pug puppy that is crying from separation anxiety is by crate training. Keeping your dog in a crate might seem unnecessary or cruel, but in fact it is a great way to give your pup a comfortable home and make it feel better about its quality of life. Dogs naturally feel secure inside a comfortable crate. It becomes their safe space, where they can let their guard down and relax. Inside their crate, they know that nothing can hurt them. The key to successful crate training is to start early. You want your pug to learn that a crate will be a safe and comfortable lifelong home. Use a treat to lure your pug into the crate for the first time, or gently push it inside. Trey feeding your dog in the crate so it associates the space with positive experiences. Most owners will find that the dog soon chooses to lie in the crate all on their own when the door is open. A cold sleeping area can interrupt a sleeping pup. The best thing you can do is spend time with your pup. Pugs can also bawl or scream! I have a post on pug bawling or pug screaming if those are what you were looking for. Can Pugs Cry Tears? Their eyes do shed tears sometimes, but not for emotional reasons. Why Do Pugs Cry Tears? Their eyes may tear aka water if they have allergies, get something in their eye, or just to help keep their eyes lubricated. Pugs were originally bred to be companions for Chinese royalty. They are quite literally made to be lapdogs. When left home alone, pugs often suffer separation anxiety. Of course, almost nobody is willing or able to stay home all the time. For almost all dogs, being left home alone sometimes is just a reality of life. With experience, your pug will learn that you will come back home later. They still may cry when you leave, though. Related article of mine: Should pugs be left home alone all day? Pug Cries At Night Pugs crying at night is a big problem for many pug owners. We got them at 8 and 9 years old and they were house trained. We were told by their former owner that they were crate trained, but they cried a ton in their crate at night. The next day, they slept great cuddled up next to us during the day. They slept in our bed from then on out. Personally, I never saw pug clinginess as a problem or something I felt the need to try to extinguish. When it comes to whether or not pugs should sleep with people, it might be a lot like parenting. Some people firmly believe in cosleeping with their kids, others firmly believe babies need to sleep in their own crib. The same will be true of pug owners. It may take days or even weeks, but it can be done. When pug puppies are born they sleep cuddled with their siblings and their mom. When a puppy is first rehomed, they cry at night because they have been removed from the comfort of sleeping with their siblings and their mom. However, it also makes sense to check for other potential causes. For example, do they need to go to the bathroom? Could they be cold, hungry, or thirsty? Separation anxiety. Pugs love being with people, it may even seem that your pug wants constant attention. One way that they often communicate fear is through whining. My pug Frank would cry when other animals were around because he was afraid of a lot of other animals. Sometimes pugs cry to let us know that they want something. My pug Frank would sit near the food bowl and cry if he was hoping to get more food. For example, if they are crying and looking under the couch, their favorite toy might have gotten stuck under there! Some pugs cry when they need to go outside. Some pugs will learn to sit near a door that leads outside and cry to make their desire a bit more obvious to you. Younger pugs may not realize that sitting near the door helps express this need, so they may just cry when they feel the urge to pee or poop, without knowing to go near the door. If your dog is in pain they may cry. Or if you just cannot seem to find any cause for their crying, you should consider it could be pain. Fast breathing Dizziness If your Pug cries when trying to urinate this could be a sign of a urinary tract infection UTI. It could also indicate a throat swelling or tonsillitis. This should always be checked by a veterinary professional as soon as symptoms arise. Here are some tips and techniques that you can use at home to stop your Pug from whining. Never yell at your Pug Never yell at your Pug, even if their crying and whimpering becomes persistent. Reprimanding your Pug will only make things worse and leave your Pug feeling more anxious than before. Instead, practice positive reinforcement techniques with rewards for desirable behaviors and simply do not reward the behaviors that you want to discourage. Try crate training Crate training is one of the best preventions against night time crying out there. Crate training is not cruel, in fact, it makes puppies feel more secure in those early days. When you first bring your pup home, keep their crate in your bedroom at night. This will help your puppy feel safe whilst still developing some independence in their safe crate. Once your pup seems more confident and stops crying at night, you can stop using the crate. Each pup will have their own timeline so be patient and take the lead. This will help develop consistent behaviors and reduce anxiety. Offer your Pug a bedtime treat to make the sleepy time a positive experience Create a comfortable and safe place for your Pug to sleep at night Leave some of their favorite toys in their sleeping area Try out some relaxation therapies yes, doggie aromatherapy is a thing! As much as you might think that showering your pooch with love every time you step out the door will make things better…. This will create more anxiety. Make the goodbyes as normal and routine as possible so your Pug feels safe and secure. Oftentimes, Pug owners find that the nighttime is the worst time for crying and whimpering. Whilst this is very common amongst Pug puppies who are still readjusting to life outside of the litter, it is not unheard of in older Pugs too. Pug puppies When Pug puppies cry at night it is because they are still readjusting to life outside of the litter. At first, they may feel lonely and isolated without their mother and litter mates. It can be heartbreaking to watch this but it is a natural developmental stage that usually passes without too much emotional distress for your pup. Older Pugs When senior Pugs cry out at night it is not usually the result of separation anxiety but because of a cognitive issue. Pugs can develop dementia-like symptoms as they get older. Symptoms like disorientation cause them to feel anxious and cry out. Do Pugs Tear Cry? Why Do Pugs Tear? According to Dr. Genna Mize from Virbac Animal Health.

For the most part, these health issues can be treated if caught early enough. The breeders test for most of these on the parents of the puppies. There are health tests for these health issues, you should visit your veterinarian to perform yearly tests and talk over health issues of your boxer. Cancer Boxers are at risk of various cancers. They are brain, thyroid, mammary glands, testes, heart, spleen, blood, lymph system lymphoma , and other organs. Benign skin tumors usually respond to surgical removal under local anesthesia. Malignant forms of cancer need specific treatment. Being observant to any unusual worth on your boxer goes a long way to prevention and treatment on time. The aortic valve is the valve through which blood leaves the heart, traveling to the rest of the body. When this valve is narrowed, the heart and specifically the left ventricle, which is the chamber that pumps blood through the aorta must work harder to force blood out through the valve. In many cases, affected dogs do not show any signs. AS is detected on a routine physical examination, when the veterinarian notices a heart murmur. The boxers with severe AS show the following signs lethargy, exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, and fainting. The tests used to confirm a diagnosis of AS are electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. Fainting or even sudden heart failure can occur, and some patients can develop congestive heart failure. It could show up as soon as 6 months or as late as 10 years of age. Symptoms of Cardiomyopathy are an irregular heartbeat in a routine exam, fainting, coughing, rapid breathing, accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and sudden death. A 24 hours holter recording the heart's activity for this period of time, an electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. In Boxer it appears to have a predisposition for development of CKD, suggesting that kidney disease in this breed might be heritable. DM is a neurological disease that affects the spinal column and nerves that coordinate the movement of the rear legs. Eventually boxers lose their ability to walk, incontinent and are euthanized. There is now a test that detects DM. Spondylosis Spondylosis is a degenerative spinal condition that affects older dogs, but can also happen due to an injury. Some show no symptoms a boxer knows how to hide his ills, however some of the symptoms are motion issues or inflexibility, lameness or limping. Treatment for mild symptoms may be prescribed pain medication or anti inflammatory drugs. Physical therapy and an exercise program can help also monitoring weight and a weight loss program if the boxer is overweight. Hip Dysplasia HD Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the ball and socket joint that makes up the hip. Some of the symptoms are the dog does not want to play vigorously, pain and lameness, hip dysplasia shows in ages between 4 months to a year. Dog should be tested for hip dysplasia at 2 years of age. Symptoms will show between the ages of years old, but it can be diagnosed at any age. Some of the symptoms are: sleepiness, lethargy, weakness, increased appetite, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, the coat can become dull and dry, loss of fur, itchy skin, skin sores or infections, and ear inflammation. Diabetes Diabetes is when the pancreas fails to produce insulin properly. Treatment usually requires insulin shots for life. Some of the symptoms are frequent urination, hunger, weight loss, vomiting and weakness. For more information, browse the following links:. Struggling in hot weather Collapsing Your vet will discuss weight control and the possibility of surgery to help your dog feel more comfortable with the condition. Epilepsy This common cause of seizures in boxers is often inherited from a parent and usually surfaces between six months and six years of age. Perfectly healthy canines can have one or two unexplained seizures during their lifetime. Turn off any lights and make the room quiet. Note how long the seizure lasts and film it if you can. Phone your vet — if you have coverage with one of our Purely Pets dog insurance plans, you can call the hour vet video service for quick and professional advice. Caring for your boxer dog With the knowledge of the possible health concerns your boxer may experience and the symptoms to look for, you can get your animal help when it needs it. Dog insurance plans cover your pet in case it needs urgent care, but there are complementary measures you need to take at home to make sure it enjoys the life it deserves. What does a boxer dog eat? This breed grows to a medium or large size, and they need a well-balanced, complete diet to keep them fit and healthy. So feeding them the right foods is essential to their quality of life. Discuss with your vet how much your pet should be eating. They can weigh your boxer and measure their height to determine an ideal diet. Feed your four-legged friend at a similar time each day and let their meal go down before taking them out to exercise. How to train a boxer dog This breed is clever, but they can also be boisterous and clown around during training. Use these tips to raise an obedient and well-trained pup: Implement a positive, reward-based training programme from an early age. Maintain a firm but fair attitude with plenty of reassurance for good behaviour. Be patient and consistent to get the best results. Boxers mature at a slower rate than most dog breeds, and their energetic puppy-like ways can make it challenging to control them as they get bigger. Before you bring a boxer into your home, consider whether you have what it takes to keep it controlled. What exercise does a boxer need? As you might expect, this high energy, active breed needs plenty of exercise. Boxers love playing and it can be a rare sight to see one sitting calmly. These dogs need a minimum of two hours daily exercise, which can be split into a few walks. Give them plenty of chances to get sniffing and explore their surroundings as well as some off-lead time for a decent run around. Use every opportunity you get to let them stretch their legs. This could be taking them with you when you pop to the shop or letting them out into the garden on a nice day. Do boxers need grooming? All dogs need some form of grooming to keep them clean and maintain their coat. Boxer owners will be pleased to hear this breed is fairly low maintenance, thanks to their short hair that only needs a weekly brush. Your dog will shed throughout the year, especially in autumn and spring, but the hairs are easy to clean with a hoover. Make sure your boxer has frequent baths to keep their skin folds clean and dry. The excess flaps can cause skin fold dermatitis if not looked after properly. Many owners complement their dog insurance plans with a pet health programme. While the former takes care of your animal in case of an emergency, the latter is sometimes offered by vets to spread the cost of routine treatments and grooming. What are the best accessories for a boxer dog? Is a boxer the right dog for me? The affectionate and loyal nature of this breed might make you consider bringing one into your family home. Remember, boxers are large dogs and need lots of care to keep them healthy and happy. Before you adopt or buy one of these canines, ask yourself if you have the funds and time needed to give them the life they deserve. Cost of owning a boxer Usually, the bigger the breed, the bigger your bank balance needs to be. So, just what causes such a big expenditure? Purchase costs: Unless you adopt a boxer from a rescue centre, you can expect to pay a hefty price for these lovable dogs. Be wary of cheap puppies and check you always buy from a Kennel Club Assured breeder. Set-up costs: This includes everything you need to pay for when you first get a puppy. They need vaccinations, neutering, and lots of accessories. Ongoing costs: Throughout their lifetime you need to provide food, preventative healthcare, more accessories, and vet bills. As boxers are prone to so many health conditions, dog insurance plans are a good idea to help you save on unexpected medical bills. Additional costs: You need to budget for other miscellaneous costs like training, kennels, and a dog walker if you work all day. Time needed to look after a boxer Unless you have the budget to pay for doggy day-care and walkers every day, you need plenty of free time to give your dog the care it deserves. Your boxer needs at least 2 hours of exercise a day plus training. You also need to factor in time for feeding, bathing, and playing with your fun-loving pet. Are boxers good with kids and other pets? Yes, this breed usually makes excellent family dogs that love to play with children. Boxers take pride in protecting their owners but are very rarely aggressive. They fare best with older children due to their large size and boisterous nature. These dogs also love other pets as long as you introduce them slowly. The two most common ways to get this breed are rehoming centres and breeders. There are many rescue centres across the UK that may have boxers, and others specialise in finding new homes for the breed. Dogs from these organisations are usually older, so make sure to check their history for any health or behavioural concerns you need to look out for. When you buy from a breeder, there are a few things you need to check before you bring a puppy home. Make sure they meet the high standards required to be a Kennel Club Assured breeder. The dog should also be well socialised and have up-to-date vaccinations and health checks along with screening tests. The greatest way to reward their ever-growing loyalty is with a lifetime pet insurance policy. Dog insurance plans protect your animal in times of need and could save you thousands in vet bills. At Purely Pets, we know how important dogs are to your family and that they deserve only the best during their time with you. Choose from 15 levels of lifetime cover to fit your budget and needs and manage your policy online at a time that suits you. Are you looking to protect your loyal boxer through every stage of its life? Check out the dog insurance plans at Purely Pets today. Boxer Dog Health Problems Overview All dog breeds are susceptible to certain illness and health conditions. While a Boxer may be susceptible to certain ailments, this does not mean that your dog is doomed to have all of them. We will go over the most common health concerns with this breed and also steps that you can take to keep your Boxer healthy. Acne It is not uncommon for a Boxer to have problems with acne. Most cases will appear when the dog is in the stage of puberty and may pimples may be a chronic issue during this time. If proper care is not taken, it can develop into a more serious health issue of infection. In addition, aside from the aesthetic element, scarring may occur. Read more about Boxer dog Acne. Aortic Stenosis - Heart Condition This is a canine issue that affects the dog's heart. The Boxer breed is more prone to this than some other dog breeds. Mild cases are sometimes not noticed and the dog will live a normal life. However, this is inherited and once passed down to Boxer puppies, those pups may have more severe cases. Therefore, the detection of this Boxer health issue is important. For dogs that do have a severe form of Aortic Stenosis, this can be very serious. More about Aortic Stenosis Arthritis Many of us have heard the words arthritis and osteoarthritis so many times that we begin to think of this as a normal and accepted part of getting older for our dogs. However, even young dogs can have this health issue. While it is true that as a dog ages, the chances of arthritis increases, your dog does not need to live in pain! There are many types of treatment for this and ways for you to make your dog more comfortable. A Boxer dog owner should be aware of the signs, diagnosis methods and treatments for this health issue, to help their Boxer dog live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible. And can be avoided in many cases. If the signs of canine bloat are not noticed and treatment is not given.Bloat can happen to a Boxer dog of any age. Thankfully, the chances of getting this are greatly reduced when an owner understands how to prevent it. While cancer strikes dogs of all breeds, an owner should take time to keep an eye out for early symptoms. As with humans, catching this early greatly increases the odds of survival. Boxers dogs are particularly prone to the development of mast cell tumors, lymphoma and brain tumors. White Boxers, and colored Boxers with white markings should be protected from the sun, as they are vulnerable to develop skin cancer if sunburns occur. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Cardiomyopathy Heart Condition Boxer cardiomyopathy is a very complicated Boxer health condition. Studies are still underway to understand more about this issue. Currently it is known that cardiomyopathy causes the heart of the dog to beat too quickly or unsteadily. This can happen at random intervals and hard to detect unless you know what symptoms to look for. If the uneven beats happen in too great of a sequence, the dog may weaken to the point of unconsciousness, coma or worse. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Degenerative Myelopathy While this is not common, the Boxer is among the top 3 breeds to develop this. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable disease of the spinal cord. It is not painful. However, it is quite serious. It starts with weakness in the rear legs, resulting in paralysis. Then, unfortunately, progresses to the front legs. More about Canine Degenerative Myelopathy with the Boxer Dog Ear Mites This can be quite a problem for dogs, ears mites are extremely contagious and will quickly jump from dog to dog or cat to dog. When a Boxer has ear mites, this can cause quite a bit of discomfort for the dog and you will want recognize the symptoms so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. This can be caused by a wide variety of bacteria, allergies or foreign elements. There is help for all types. Learn about symptoms, treatment and prevention. Cherry Eye, Corneal Dystrophy and Uveitis are some of the most common eye health issues with this dog breed. More about Boxer Dog Eye Diseases and Problems Heartworms Sadly, many owners believe that Heartworms only strike unclean dogs or those that are not loved and taken care of. However, this is a widespread very serious canine disease. Worms from 6 to 14 inches cm long grow and burrow into a dog's heart. They multiply; up to worms can live in a dog's heart and arteries. It is vital for dog owners to understand prevention and treatment. The Boxer dog, among other dog breeds, is prone to this health condition. Passed on genetically, this type of canine disease is progressive — meaning that it will worsen as time goes by. It may cause loss of motor function, loss of coordination and in sadly, in some cases, paralysis. While more common among certain breeds, a dog of any breed may develop this. The Boxer and the Boston Terrier are both prone to this. Both dog breeds do have similar bone structure of their heads and it is also seen among some small breed dogs. With vomiting and bloating occurring, it is important to have this treated. There may be rapid weight loss due to the symptoms. The time span between eating and vomiting is what will distinguish 'regular' vomiting from this stomach disease. While a dog may vomit right after eating when having this health problem, he or she will also vomit up to 24 hour later…when there would usually be no food left in the stomach. With this Boxer dog stomach problem, the vomit will usually contain large pieces of undigested food. It is diagnosed by carefully documenting when the dog eats and when the dog vomits. Barium studies with X-rays may show the narrowed stomach outflow. In mild cases, the vomiting does not happen often and a dog can live a normal life without treatment. In severe cases, treatment must be given right away; if not, the dog can succumb to this canine disease. Surgery may be needed in some cases. Thankfully, the majority of surgeries are very successful. When puppies are born, these are passed on to them from dam to pups. For healthy Boxer dogs, this does not cause any concern and the dog will not have any health issues. A dog will often show strange symptoms such as repeated behavior as if a movie is looping over and over again , drooling, staring into space, confusion, falling down, stiff limbs or unconsciousness. Learn about the different types of canine seizures, the symptoms of each and what to do if this happens. They were bred from a German hunting dog that was crossbred with English bulldogs. Boxers are well-loved, high-energy family dogs that are sweet with children and vigilant guards of the family home. Some of the conditions that afflict Boxers have a genetic basis, and are more likely to happen to Boxers than to dogs of other breeds. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions, and when possible, avoid breeding dogs with those traits. But these conditions can still happen. Boxers are more likely to develop health problems such as heart problems, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, and ulcerative colitis than other dogs. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxers are more likely to develop a specific heart condition than other dogs. The condition, Boxer cardiomyopathy , is actually named after the breed, though other dogs can develop it. The most common sign a dog has Boxer cardiomyopathy is if it has trouble breathing. Your dog might cough or wheeze frequently. Your dog might start panting during walks or playtime. If you think your dog might have Boxer cardiomyopathy, you should avoid exercise until the dog can be examined by its veterinarian. Eventually the weakness will be more apparent, with loss of bowel and urinary control. The dog might struggle to get up because the disease also causes muscle atrophy. Boxers with degenerative myelopathy can become paralyzed by the disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. But if your Boxer has the disease, there are a few things you can do to help them suffer less. Kinesiology tape has been used successfully to help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. A dog that spends lots of time lying down is at risk of bedsores. Boxers that become partially paralyzed by degenerative myelopathy are candidates for wheelchairs. Dog wheelchairs can help to slow down the progression of degenerative myelopathy by removing stress on the joints and allowing more mobility and exercise. Both stress and lack of exercise can contribute greatly to the progression of the disease. Boxers with Bloat Bloat, or gastric dilation , is another health risk that boxers are more likely to suffer from than other dogs. Bloat is a potentially fatal stomach condition that is common in large dogs with deep chests, like boxers and shepherds. Bloat is caused by unhealthy eating habits: if a Boxer eats one large meal a day, or eats too quickly, they run the risk of bloat. If you notice your dog likes to scarf its food, you can give it smaller meals throughout the day. Also, make sure your Boxer does not run around or get over-excited within an hour or two of meals. Panting can cause a dog to swallow air, further expanding the stomach and contributing to bloat. Bloat can sometimes result in Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus. In GDV, the over-filled stomach twists around, cinching the ends closed. This is a true emergency, requiring immediate surgery. Nothing can escape from the twisted stomach, and the blood supply to the stomach and spleen is compromised. In a few hours, the dog can die from loss of blood supply to the stomach as well as physiologic shock. Ulcerative Colitis in Boxers Many Boxers also develop ulcerative colitis. In fact, non-Boxer dogs rarely develop the condition, which may have a genetic basis. Ulcerative colitis is another digestive system problem; dogs with the disease develop ulcers in their intestines. Boxers with the disease will have trouble absorbing water and have diarrhea or loose stool , and might lose weight as a result. Puppies one year old or younger most often develop the disease. Your vet will treat your Boxer by prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. In some cases, your vet may recommend a change in diet. And remember—if your dog has any of these health problems, they should be treated by a veterinarian. Dogs don't have the ability to tell us how they feel. However, anyone who has ever had a furry friend knows that canine body language can be very expressive. Dogs will instinctively hide how they feel in the early stages of an illness. Because you know your dog, you may be able to pick up on some subtle changes in their personality and actions. These subtle changes usually indicate that something is wrong. The key to helping your dog recover quickly is noticing that there is a problem as soon as possible. Here are 11 warning signs that will help you answer the question, "Is my dog sick? The problem can be mild and transient or life-threatening. These signs can be caused by a diet change, getting into the trash, viral or bacterial infections, motion sickness, parvovirus in puppies, or from ingestion of a foreign object. If your dog had one episode of vomiting or diarrhea from an upset stomach and is acting normally, observe for any progression in symptoms. A bland wet food, such as that made of boiled chicken or hamburger mixed with rice, can be fed in small amounts for a day or two until symptoms are resolved. The next step, after you have established that your dog is no longer vomiting or having loose stool, is to mix in dry food. However, when symptoms occur multiple times in 24 hours, and are associated with weakness, lethargy, lack of appetite, or unproductive vomiting dry heaves , please call your veterinarian. Be mindful of the following signs: Straining to urinate Changes in urine volume an increase or decrease Blood in the urine These signs are especially important to note in senior dogs. Excessive amounts of urination may indicate an issue with the kidneys or diabetes mellitus. Bloody urine can indicate a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, blood problem, or cancer. If possible, take a sample of the urine with you. Loss of Appetite Most dogs have their own eating habits and may eat more food on some days than on others. Appetite loss is a symptom of many different problems. Some can be mild and others serious. When associated with bad breath, conditions like anorexia can indicate dental disease. You can try offering your dog some of their favorite treats or a small amount of cooked chicken or hamburger. If the problem lasts more than a day or is associated with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and weakness, the best course of action is to see your vet. Drinking too little can indicate not feeling well and drinking too much water can indicate that your pet has a fever, hormone issues, diabetes, or kidney disease. If they are drinking less, you can try adding more water bowls around the house or flavoring water with chicken broth. If they are drinking more, check to see if they are also urinating more. If the problem persists, see your vet and take a urine sample if possible. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain Sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of a health issue. This sign may take a few weeks to notice. Unexplained weight gain or loss can be caused by a variety of conditions and is always a concern. The best approach is to have your dog evaluated to find the underlying cause. Changes in Personality When dogs are in pain or don't feel well, they tend to display behavioral changes, such as decreased activity or lethargy. Some sick dogs that are normally social may start to withdraw. A kind and energetic pet may begin to show snippiness or aggression. Notice if your dog growls when you get close to a particular area of the body that may be the source of discomfort. Not all sick dogs will display negative behavior when they are ill. Some dogs may become clingy or show signs of increased neediness. Some just display changes in their routine, which is typical for dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction. Monitor your dog for additional symptoms, such as lack of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lameness, or straining to urinate. If you notice significant alterations in your dog's behavior or additional symptoms, contact a licensed veterinarian. Coughing, Wheezing, or Trouble Breathing Coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, and nasal discharge are all signs of a respiratory problem. These symptoms can range from a simple cold to canine flu , kennel cough, or heart failure. Hearing a honking noise can indicate a condition called tracheal collapse that is common in some small dog breeds. If your dog has difficulty breathing or a blue tint to the tongue and gums, consider this a medical emergency. Any sudden change in dog health can be a life-threatening emergency! This can cause extreme discomfort. Mild symptoms can be soothed with a bath, but more severe signs should be evaluated by a veterinarian. If the symptom is mild and all else is normal in their behavior, you may be able to give your dog a day of rest. If you are worried or the problem persists, see your veterinarian. Eye Changes Red eyes, runny eyes, squinting, or holding the eye closed can be signs of problems that range from a mild infection to an ulceration or glaucoma. If your dog is pawing or rubbing at the eyes, try to stop this behavior and call your vet. Rubbing at the eye can cause serious damage. An e-collar may be required in addition to medication administration as prescribed by your vet. Normal dogs have pink, moist gums. Dogs with pale gums can be anemic or suffering from shock. All the possible causes can be serious. It your dog has pale gums, is lethargic, weak, or having trouble breathing, this can be a medical emergency. Call your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency clinic for immediate medical attention. For this reason, it's important for dog owners to notice the early symptoms as soon as possible. If you want to know how to tell if your dog is sick quickly and without guessing, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog displays any of these signs. Share Your Dog's Health History Your veterinarian may ask for the following: Dog health history, including any past medical procedures Current medications Symptoms your dog is displaying. This includes when they started, how frequent they are, and any other comments about the nature of their symptoms. Pet Insurance for Your Dog's Visit to the Vet When you start to consider how much exams, tests, and treatments can cost, signing up for a dog health insurance plan starts to make a lot of sense. What's Covered? Dog insurance can help cover the cost of the examination, office visits, emergency visits, medical treatment, surgery, and even appointments to see veterinary specialists. You can go to any vet in the US or Canada without restriction. Your insurance may also include a wellness plan that covers routine exams, vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, and even dental cleanings. This can help your vet potentially diagnose the issue and provide you with recommendations. Blood work— Blood tests can consist of a complete blood count CBC , biochemical profile, thyroid levels, heartworm testing, and more. This information is important to help diagnose conditions like infections, anemia, kidney disease, hepatitis, and diabetes. X-Rays— Radiographs are an excellent way to diagnose many different problems, such as fractures, heart failure, tumors, and much more. One thing to keep in mind is that most pet insurance providers exclude pre-existing conditions, denying coverage for injuries or illnesses that occur before a policy. Pre-existing condition coverage requires a month waiting period. The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not serve as a substitute for the professional medical advice of your veterinarian. She regularly produces content for pet blogs dealing with how to care for and love your pet. They have incredible immune systems, they possess hyper-athletic physiology, and they have an incredibly high tolerance for discomfort. A boxer is a physical specimen, even by comparison with other dogs. The boxer dog breed is as athletic as dogs get while still being sweet, obedient, and playful read more fun facts about boxer dogs. However, as is the case with most purebred dogs, boxers are prone to certain health problems. Degenerative Myelopathy The first major health issue that most dog owners should be aware of is degenerative myelopathy. This debilitating condition affects the nervous system and lower spinal cord and eventually leads to partial or full paralysis of the lower limbs. These sudden unexplainable bouts of clumsiness will be few and far between to begin, but any sign of paralysis in the hind legs should serve as a warning sign. Unfortunately, there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, as it is a debilitating nerve disease with irreversible effects. Even still, rapid action and treatment is a necessity for keeping your Boxer as healthy and happy as possible. Things like canine wheelchairs, kinesiology tape, and certain kinds of prescribed medicines from the vet can help your Boxer pet lead a life that is as close to normal as possible. If you notice any regular bouts of clumsiness or temporary paralysis in the hind legs, it is imperative that you take your Boxer in to be checked for degenerative myelopathy. If you fear your Boxer may be suffering from this disease, your veterinarian will be able to help with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxer Cardiomyopathy is a canine heart condition that is more prevalent in the boxer dog breed than any other breed of dog. While other dogs are just as susceptible to developing this kind of heart condition, due to their genetic makeup boxers are at high risk for this disease. Characterized by an irregular heartbeat and fainting spells, boxers affected by cardiomyopathy are often at high risk of sudden heart failure. Most boxers who suffer from Boxer Cardiomyopathy begin to show symptoms of the disease at two years of age or earlier. Complications can arise as a result of waiting, so it is always a best practice to consult your Vet as soon as you notice any health problems in your dog. Symptoms like heavy wheezing not during exercise , fainting, coughing, and an irregular heartbeat could all be indications that your Boxer is suffering from Boxer Cardiomyopathy. Take preventative action and visit your Vet for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan. Bloat is a more common name for a condition called gastric dilation, wherein the gastrointestinal system swells, preventing digestion of food and passage of stool. The most common cause of Bloat is simply overeating, which Boxers are prone to do. The result of excess food combined with excess stomach acid is rapid inflammation and Bloat. In some severe cases, Bloat can require surgery. Bloat can cause the stomach muscles to twist on themselves, which prevents blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If this goes without treatment, it could be catastrophic for your Boxer. Even in more mild cases of Bloat, uncomfortable methods of extraction are often employed. The best treatment for Bloat is to avoid it altogether, and Bloat can easily be managed by you as an owner. Simply control how much you are feeding your Boxer, and be sure to avoid overeating. Most Boxers are susceptible to massive appetites, and they require large amounts of caloric intake daily. Hip Dysplasia As a superior athletic specimen, mobility is key for your Boxer. Hip dysplasia is one of the biggest long term threats for the health and well being of the Boxer dog breed. This degenerative joint condition is a genetic malformation wherein the hip joint does not properly fit into the hip socket. The discord between joint and socket creates a painful sensation wherein your Boxer is limited in his mobility. Activities like walking become a chore, while fun activities like running and jumping become downright impossible. However, hip dysplasia becomes more of a risk the older your dog gets. If left untreated Hip dysplasia can lead to other joint conditions like lameness and arthritis. Typically, hip dysplasia is treated with a long term medication plan to control inflammation and pain. If your Boxer is severely limited in his mobility, you may be interested in looking into canine physical therapy, which can help your dog in their pursuit to learn new ways of moving. Seizures Seizures may be one of the most frightening medical episodes to watch your Boxer endure, but they are an unfortunate reality for boxer owners. The same thing that makes your Boxer a lovable bundle of renewable energy is the very cause of potential seizures, their brain. Most commonly, and especially in boxers, these types of seizures are brought on by Idiopathic Epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy refers to a single or series of epileptic episodes that have no apparent cause. These epileptic fits stem from some unknown genetic malformation of the brain, and this type of epilepsy is found in large dogs and boxers. Additionally, Boxers, especially those with heart conditions, are susceptible to seizures because of their increased energy levels. While it may be scary, seizures are treatable, both in the moment and long term. In the moment, it is important to remain calm and allow your dog to seize. Your instinct will be to restrain your dog, but this action could cause more harm than good. Once the seizing has subsided, take your dog to your Vet immediately. Seizing could be a side effect of some greater health risk, so it is always imperative that your dog is taken in for analysis after an epileptic event. There are medications and treatment plans that can help your Boxer cope with seizures and epileptic events. General Health The best way to keep your Boxer healthy and happy is with a good diet and lots of exercise. Your Boxer is full of natural energy, and his excitement to run and play will likely outlast your enthusiasm and energy levels. Nonetheless, it is imperative that you are constantly engaging with your Boxer. Boxers are one of the most demanding breeds, not just as a result of how much energy they have, but how much energy they require in return. Even in spite of some of the health problems listed above, your Boxer will still have more energy and desire to be active than many other breeds. Boxers require a calorie-rich diet of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to match their high metabolism. Around the world, people love this breed to keep as pets or as watchful guard dogs. However, the setback of this breed is the multiple arrays of diseases it is prone to in its lifetime. Some typical boxer dog health issues are known to be hereditary. The top 10 diseases most commonly found in boxer dogs are listed below. Heart Disease It is very normal for a boxer to be prone to cardiac issues. Because of their genetic makeup, Cardio Myopathy, where the heart is unable to pump the blood efficiently, may become an issue. Another health condition in boxers is aortic stenosis, which may prove to be fatal and result in sudden death. Dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart expands, usually occurs in 2- to 5-year-old boxers. Stomach Bloating Stomach bloating is a health issue in large dogs with deep chests and is common in boxers. The stomach twists inside the body which can block the blood supply to the body. Symptoms include excessive drooling, vomiting, and the dog might not eat at all. Cancer The boxer breed is prone to mast-cell cancer, which revolves around the lymph nodes, skin cancer, heart, reproductive organs, spleen, and thyroid. Monthly checkups with the vet are important to become knowledgeable about boxer dog diseases and to be able to recognize early symptoms and treatment procedures. Hip Dysplasia Boxer dogs commonly suffer from hip dysplasia in their hind limbs, where the joints get lose and reduce the bone efficiency. It is very painful, and medication is usually prescribed to ease suffering. Eye Disease Boxer dogs may suffer from the damage of the corneal tissues of the eyes, called refractory superficial ulcers which results in pain. Neurological Disease Boxers are prone to developing degenerative myelopathy, which is a neurological disease. The spinal cord and nerves of the hind legs are affected, thus making it difficult for the dog to walk. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is usually known as impaired thyroid gland function and results in low thyroid hormone level. Symptoms may include hair loss, weight gain, and infertility. Alopecia Growth hormone responsive alopecia causes hair loss in boxers due to the gland not producing enough growth hormone. The treatment is to opt for neutering the dog. Colitis Boxers tend to develop Histolytic Ulcerative Colitis, which is the inflammation of the colon. Symptoms include diarrhea with mucus and blood, which results in weight loss. Colitis can get better with medication. Boxers are prone to suffering from food allergies and their surroundings which can result in skin infections and diseases.