alaskan malamute german shepherd mix puppies

With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. Should I buy a pug puppy at a pet store? Before you start: Before you start looking for pug breeders, there are a few things you should do to improve your experience. Understand breed standards — Not all pugs are created equal. Some are show quality and bred to match breed standards, while others may be off on a few aesthetic details. Have patience — The process of finding a pug breeder, waiting for a litter and bringing your puppy home can take months! How to find pug breeders Finding breeders to reach out to is step one. There are a number of ways of find reputable breeders: Reach out to friends — Have a friend or acquaintance with a pug? Reach out to them about their experience and breeder info. Slide into their DMs and ask about their breeder. Attend one to get the low down on litters. More on this below. Be prepared to do your research and ask lots of questions. Here are questions the breeder should be prepared to answer: What requirements do you have of people looking to take home one of your puppies? Breeders should be as interested in you as you are in them. They should ask about you, your family and your household. Can I meet the parents? Plus, seeing the parents will give you an idea of what their puppies will be like both in terms of temperament and looks. Have health tests been performed on the parents? This will ensure both parents are healthy and free of genetic diseases common to the pug breed. How long have you been breeding and what is your experience with this breed? Breeders should have a deep understanding of the breed and a history that includes either showing dogs or being part of a breed club. How do you socialize your puppies? Puppies should be well socialized in a home environment so they grow to be well-adjusted dogs. When will I be able to take the puppy home? Responsible breeders will not allow puppies to be taken home until they are at least ten weeks old. Puppies should be up-to-date on vaccinations and come with a health guarantee and contract for you to sign. Many breeders will also require you to agree to spay or neuter the dog, unless you plan to show them. A breeder should welcome back any dog that you can no longer care for. Can we speak to references and your vet? The breeder should be willing to provide references from others who have purchased their puppies, as well as the contact information for their veterinarian. Are you available as a resource after I take the puppy home? They should provide care instructions and be available as a resource. Reputable breeders are interested in you, your family and your household. Pug puppy scams Puppy scams are rampant all across the internet. In many cases, the puppy advertised never even existed. According to the Better Business Bureau, 3. You can learn ways to avoid puppy scams by checking for the following breeder red flags. Pug breeder red flags If you pay attention, you can avoid puppy scams and backyard breeders. If the pug breeder does any of the following things, run the other way. Absolutely not. Pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, commercial dog breeding facilities that keeps dogs in cruel and unsafe conditions. Remember those sad dog commercials with the Sarah McLaughlin music? Those are puppy mills. There are an estimated 10, puppy mills in the United States. All they care about is money and churning out puppies. Dogs are kept in horrid conditions, receive no veterinary care, and are often sick and underfed. The majority of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. Click here to learn more about pug prices. Click here to learn more about pug stuff. Pin for later! Finding a reputable breeder is one of the most important steps in your Pug adoption journey. Not all breeders are made equal. Here are some key criteria to consider when looking for a Pug breeder. Seek out reputable breeders Chances are your first port of call is going to be Google. Start your search locally by checking local classifieds online. You may also want to ask around in your local area. Friends, newspaper ads, the local veterinarian are all great options. A reputable breeder will include details and pictures of their pups and dam. They will also provide ample information and include details of health testing, conformation, and any after-sales policies. Check to see how many litters they have produced in the last 12 months or so. Good breeders breed less. Sometimes your gut instinct is the best way to find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will be happy to answer any and all of your questions and have ample knowledge of the Pug breed. If they seem defensive, secretive, or callous, then walk the other way. Do they follow breeder best practices? When it comes to your first visit, be vigilant. Make sure that your breeder is following breeder best practices. Breeder best practices coverage, health, conformation, and after sales policy. Your breeder should not let their puppies go to new homes before 8 weeks of age. You should never buy a Pug younger than this. Your breeder should provide proof of relevant health checks, conformation, and provide you with an after-sales policy. Beware puppy scams and red flags Unfortunately, the world is full of puppy scams. Some people who claim to be dog breeders are after one thing and one thing only. Your money. Key signs that your alleged breeder is a scam artist: They promise a free puppy They promise a highly discounted puppy They sell sob stories They keep asking you for more money They are very far away 6. Even if you feel sorry for the puppies in these mills, the best way to stop this practice is not to fund it by purchasing a puppy from them. Puppy mills are large-scale breeders who breed pups in poor conditions. Oftentimes pups from puppy mills develop physical and behavioral health issues later in life. We also recommend avoiding purchasing puppies from pet stores. Not all health conditions are visible or immediately obvious. But nonetheless, there are some basic checks you can observe to ensure that your Pug is in top-notch condition. Cloudiness, redness, gunk, and discharge are all signs of ill health. Likewise, a Pug with watery, squinted eyes may also be unwell. If her eyes are also glazed over or irritated then this could be a sign of a hereditary ocular disease. These are all causes for concern. Your puppy should be able to breathe comfortably when at rest. Any uncalled for raspiness or breathing difficulties are signs of ill health. Coat Pug puppies should have super shiny, clean coats. Frame Pups should be slightly plump with a well-proportioned frame. Shorter than average legs are a sign of a genetic condition called Dwarfism. Unfortunately, Pug Dwarfism is a serious issue and often leads to a myriad of health issues and a short life expectancy. Look for signs of limping or unsteadiness. Listen out for any clicking sounds from the hips. These are all signs of future joint problems. Since puppies come in a litter, oftentimes there will be more than one to choose from. Try to pick a pup with a well-balanced temperament. Not too shy and not too crazy. Think about what kind of character will fit best with your home life. Is your household mellow and quiet or busy and noisy? Do you have kids? Do you have other pets? No problem. Remember, a reputable breeder will be happy to answer any of these questions and be adequately knowledgeable. Even that is a bit excessive. Overbreeding is a serious problem and can lead to health issues for both mom and pups in the long run. Your breeder should be able to provide you with proof of any relevant health checks and notify you of any hereditary issues. This is because some genetic health issues do not show up until later in life usually after approximately three years of age. It is wholly in your right to ask to see the parents in person. In fact, the pups should all be with their mother until at least 8 weeks. Ask where the puppies are living and ask to see them A good breeder will keep their pups in the home. They will be more than happy to show you around. If the pups are in a dark, cold, isolated area such as a garage or yard — or if the breeder refuses your request to visit- then this is a big red flag. Ask if the puppies have been regularly handled Make sure that your puppy has been well socialized with people. In the best-case scenario, your pup will have had contact with people of various ages and possibly even other dogs and animals. Adequate socializing is super important for preventing any behavioral issues later in life. A good breeder will be able to give you a detailed medical history for each pup. All puppies should have been checked by a vet before being homed. Ask for references or to speak to a previous buyer Good breeders will be happy to provide references. If people have had a good experience with them in the past, they will be more than happy to offer a reference. If your breeder refuses to offer you a reference then this is a big warning sign. Ask for a contract Make sure you and the breeder sign a contract before you take your new pup home. A good breeder will always present new owners with a contract prior to purchase. The contract should include all breeder and owner responsibilities and any details of a returns policy. Some breeders will even offer a year health guarantee against genetic defects. In order to avoid scam artists, there are a few tell-tale signs that you can look out for. These are major red flags. Reputable breeders who love their Pugs will never do these things. Signs of a puppy scam include: Promises of a free puppy Promises of a highly discounted puppy Asking for money just to complete paperwork Offering long-distance puppy delivery Sob stories are a huge red flag. If you come across an advert selling you a pup on the basis of a tragic life event e. Whilst this is not always a scam, puppy scam artists do like to use this method. Usually, if somebody can no longer look after their beloved dog, they will not ask for a lot of money to rehome them. In fact, oftentimes, the dog will be offered to a loving home for free. Bring Your Pugs Home! Sourcing your new Pug pup can be a lengthy process. Now you know what to look for when buying a Pug puppy, and the tips and tricks to filter the right Pug breeders. Eyes checked by an eye specialist for Entropion, Distichiasis double eyelashes and Pigmentary Keratitis Heart testing for heart murmurs Whilst health testing is ideal, tests need to be breed appropriate and have a tangible outcome. May-Hegglin Anomaly was found in only one dog, a Pug or Pug cross. Dogs in the susceptible group may never develop the condition. A flowchart for diagnosis was developed as part of research that led to the susceptibility test. What is a well-bred Pug like? Contrary to belief, when a Pug breathing can be heard, this does not always indicate health issues. Some of her Pugs have competed in Obedience. I think Pugs are only limited by what their owners are willing to do with them. Health is not something considered highly in unregulated breeding. The only way for these colours to be there is through cross breeding at some point. Along with the colours will come genetics for diseases not previously found in Pugs. Follow the Dogs Australia three Rs ; Right time — Is it the right time now to get a puppy for your family? Right breed — Have you researched all you need to know about your breed from its natural instincts to grooming? Right Breeder — Is your breeder responsible, operating under a code of ethics, with regulations and health checks? From getting a dog to keeping them happy we will have you covered at dogsaustralia. It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities. Keep Updated Want to stay across the latest news? Sign up here and we will add you to our mailing list. You want a pug, maybe a bonded-pair? You hopefully have done some research and think this is the breed for you. Please read on if you are not familiar with the breed. Let me start by saying that no two pugs are alike. Gross Generalizations that tend to be true: Blacks tend to be busier and have more attitude than fawns. Females tend to be pushier and more in your face than males. Males tend to be more laid back and easy going than females. There are exceptions to all of the above. So you will be rightfully horrified when you find that your puppy is a whirling dervish of energy who snuggles for 30 seconds and then is off again to race around the house, leaving destruction in his or her path. Pug puppies are no different from any other puppy. Expect nipping, chewing, gnawing, jumping, pulling on your trouser legs, shoe destroying, and general mayhem. NO puppy is a couch potato. They are all lunatics. Some more than others. Pugs from reputable breeders are more likely to have the pug temperament eventually, but even they will be devils as a puppy. One of the best ways to wear a puppy out or any busy dog is to engage them in activities that make them work and think. Pugs are and were bred to be companion animals. They need people. And pug puppies will need you to engage with them. They will demand it as will most adults. Just like children, puppy brains need stimulation and activity to develop. A puppy left crated for eight to ten hours will be absolutely manic by the time you get home and will need you to devote the remainder of the evening to them. House Training: Pugs will not be house trained in a month or two months or even six months. You may end up with a pug that asks for food as opposed to letting you know they want to go out. Pugs generally will not just go outside and do their business while you sit nice and warm in the kitchen and have a coffee. Most will not excrete outside without your company and encouragement. Many will also try to fake you out by pretending to pee. You bet, but these quirks are part of the charm of the breed. When was the last time you had to hold your bowels or bladder for eight to ten hours at a stretch? Punishing a pug for an accident is not an effective method of house training. There are many good books and articles on house training. Be prepared that if you have a pug puppy, you may well have to get up at night — two, three or four times a night — until they are six months or older. Pug Quirks: Pugs have a variety of quirks that drive some people nuts. They are nosey, inquisitive, and often right under foot. They will eat sticks, rocks, coins, screws, plastic caps off of bottles. You name it, they will eat it. It is your job to pug proof your home to avoid tragedy. Many have tissue and toilet paper addictions that they have all their lives. I have known several to think eating used tissue is a true delight and will go out of their way to access it. I never trust any pug around any food source, rubbish bin or even cabinets that they can open. If they can get onto your dining room or kitchen table, they will. And they will consume whatever is up there. Pugs are often quite tactile. Many are obsessive lickers — of themselves, you, the other dogs or cats, the kids, the carpet, your pillow. Many use their paws more like hands than paws. Pugs can be quite vocal and can be barkers, howlers, moaners and grumblers. I have known of many that were vocal in the extreme and would carry on protracted conversations with their owners. And some snore very, very loudly. Pugs are tough little dogs that have no clue how small they are. Most will not initiate a fight, but many will vigorously defend themselves or others if a fight starts. Most are hopelessly outclassed in the fighting department and will get seriously hurt. As a deeply food driven breed, you may have issues with food aggression and resource guarding. Make sure that you do research on working with these issues. Many pugs are not fans of inclement weather and will resist excreting outside in the cold, rain or wind. Some are fine, but in my experience, many will refuse or try to refuse to excrete outdoors. Some will simply use your floors, some will hold their bowels and bladder for frighteningly long periods of time too. Few pugs will show any remorse or other indication that they know they did wrong by excreting in the house. Pugs any dog, in my opinion should not be off lead in any environment where they can get away from you and end up on the road or lost. They can be remarkably fast and it only takes a second for a dog to be hit by a car. They have a remarkable capacity for bodily excretions. Pugs are Smart: Pugs are often tagged as dumb dogs. In fact, most are smart enough and stubborn enough to figure out how to get their way or how to outlast you. Since they are often very food driven, treats are very effective in training pugs. And they are dogs. They need to do dog things — go to parks, meet other dogs, play and have fun. Pugs are very adept at figuring out what you will and will not tolerate and will test the limits. There are pugs that excel at agility, and at obedience. It really is important to remember that they need the right amount of food for the activity level of the dog. As mentioned earlier, they can be wildly busy puppies and many first time pug owners get very discouraged. They may slow down with time and age, but you need to be sure that your pug, regardless of energy level, gets exercise and mental stimulation. Pug Health: This, more than any other issue, is often the undoing of a pug owner. Like all pure bred dogs, pugs have some health issues that may crop up and they are often expensive health issues. You do put yourself at risk for expensive health issues with pugs from pet shops, internet ads and the newspaper. Most reputable breeders will have genetic testing going back generations. Pugs are prone to issues specific to brachycephalic flat faced breeds breathing, eyes, folds of skin and are prone to issues of the toy breeds generally luxating patella, dental problems, trachea. Pugs have a very high rate of allergies — food being a big one — grains in particular. Pugs need a high quality diet. Shop brought kibble may not cut it and you can avoid a host of future problems if you start off feeding your pug a good diet, whether raw or a premium kibble. Pugs have a high rate of vaccine reactions. Be watchful and conservative in your vaccination protocol. Think seriously about insurance for your pug. It can be a life saver, literally. It can happen. An eye injury in a pug can go from simple scratch to serious ulcer in 24 hours and need a corneal graft that will run you into some serious cash. I love pugs, but they are, to my mind, a high maintenance breed. They need and want a lot of attention. They moult like maniacs. They can be bossy, stubborn, and full of naughtiness. They require a fair bit of watching and managing in terms of safety, health and general training. They can and will get themselves into trouble — by dashing into the road if off the lead to get a piece of squashed sandwich, chewing on your power cords, opening up your cupboards which you thought were safe and 7. They tend to need some pretty regular cleaning of nose folds, eye areas and are notoriously fussy about having their nails trimmed. You can see some real dramatic behaviour around nail clipping in particular. They do a thing called Reverse Sneezing. Read up about it and save yourself a trip to the emergency vet. All pugs do it. To me, they are worth the effort, expense and time that they require. They are clowns and comics and will provide hours of laughter and entertainment. But as a pug owner, you MUST be aware of the care involved in this breed. We are grateful to one of our supporters for sending us this article for publication.

My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn. As a responsible future German Shepherd dog owner, you might want to focus on sourcing your new pup from a responsible and reliable breeder instead of a questionable or unreliable one. Good German Shepherd breeders always adhere to the German Shepherd breed standard established by the AKC, and they do everything they can to ensure that the pups they breed are as healthy as possible from the start. Shadowbrook Shepherds — Troy Owned by Pat Holley, who is an experienced dog breeder and handler, Shadowbrook Shepherds is a breeding outfit that specializes in producing high-quality German Shepherd dogs that come from remarkable German bloodlines. They produce GSDs of work, show, and pet quality, as well as the occasional breeding-quality dogs that are only sold to approved breeders. Shadowbrook Shepherds is a member in good standing with both the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and the American Kennel Club; hence, its breeding program focuses on sticking to the standards for responsible and ethical breeding practices. They produce an average of six to eight litters of German Shepherds per year, all the while focusing on good conformation, excellent health, and sound temperament, to ensure that the dogs they breed excel in any field — whether as regular old family members, skilled working dogs, or quality show dogs. Of course, Shadowbrook Shepherds chooses only health-tested breeding dogs to ensure that their litters carry the best qualities of the German Shepherd breed. All of their puppies are also health tested and vet checked, as well as fully vaccinated, microchipped, and put through a deworming protocol before they are ready to leave for their new home. Shadowbrook Shepherds offers a limited AKC registration, a health guarantee, and a new puppy starter pack that contains all the necessary information that goes along with your puppy such as health records, dog training advice, toys, etc. Shadowbrook Shepherds details. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile dog breeds in the world. They are strong willed and highly intelligent with a very playful spirit. These qualities make them a wonderful family pet. German Shepherds can be a bit wary of strangers and other animals, so early socialization is very important. German Shepherds are born protectors. They will give their families a great sense of security, while their loving and lively personality will make them true companions. German Shepherds are also quite adaptable. They are police dogs, military service dogs, guide dogs for special needs individuals, and of course they still retain their herding instincts. German Shepherds love to run around the yard with children and adults, playing daily games of fetch, and any other physical activities enjoyed by their family. When choosing the sex of a German Shepherd, it is good to keep in mind that males are more protective of their surroundings and females are more protective of their family. Overall, the German Shepherd combines the best qualities of all breeds into one - loyal, dedicated, attentive and courageous.

Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals. Post navigation. We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. It can be a rollercoaster of emotions, with several successes combining with moments of failure to finally reach a desired outcome. Some pups love to go outside to use the bathroom, but some individuals may be resistant to that idea. Some dog breeds are quite adaptive to the idea of litter box training. How do you convince your dog that the litter box is the best place to use the bathroom? It may take several months for some breeds to adapt, but puppies and adult dogs will eventually get to know the process. It is very easy to get the supplies that you need. Certain breeds of dog can excel with litter box training. The process is similar to what you would teach a cat, providing them with a large tray as a place to use the bathroom. If you give your pup a lot of positive reinforcement with this process, then it can be a rewarding experience that controls messes for you. Most breeds can adapt to this training option in a couple of weeks, and some individuals may take to it right away. You can eliminate the threat of urine odors and stains. Dogs that need to go to the bathroom will hold it until they no longer can. Litter box training your pup will help you to manage the problems with liquid waste because they can manage their bathroom needs independently of your presence. Litter box training allows for liquid and solid waste. This option gives your pup an opportunity to relieve themselves of the liquid and solid waste when it is time to go. There are several different varieties of litter from which to choose. Dog litter is similar to the products that you can find for kitties in the store. When you need to replace what is in the tray, then you can find everything from activated charcoal to paper pellets. Simple clay litters are sold almost everywhere to provide pet parents with a suitable entry-level option. If you have concerns about the odors that come from the tray, then try sprinkling some baking soda along the bottom of the box every time you empty it to have more control over this issue. It helps senior dogs who may have bladder control issues. If your dog is over the age of 8, then their senior status can impact how and when they need to relieve themselves. Instead of relying on diapers to manage the mess, you can work with your older pup on transitioning to the litter box. You can reduce the amount of physical pain they experience trying to walk outside, especially if you live in a high-rise apartment. They might not have enough time to let you know they need to go at that age too, so having a usable tray gives you mess containment. You will give confidence to some breeds with this training option. Some breeds, with the Maltese being the most notorious for the issue, can struggle to fully adapt to the idea of going outside. Their small bladder size can make it challenging to get them to a patch of grass on time. Instead of dealing with messes or scolding behaviors, you can create a positive environment that involves the litter tray instead. It works well for small breeds only. A bigger pup also means that more waste products must be managed, which could overwhelm the capabilities of this system. If your dog weighs more than 20 pounds, then you might want to look for an alternative solution for their bathroom needs. Some dogs love to dig in the litter tray. If your dog is a digger, then a litter box is not the best solution for your potty training needs. You will want to watch their behaviors during the training process as well since some individuals like to eat the litter or their waste after leaving it behind. There can be severe odors with a litter box. Cats do well with a litter box because the product absorbs their urine and covers up the odors of their waste — to an extent. Because dogs will leave more waste products behind, this training option can be quite odiferous, changing the entire environment of your home if you live in a small place. You might want to consider litter box training if you have a garage, laundry room, or bathroom that has venting in place that will help you to control air movement if it offers easy access and some privacy. The cost for the initial setup can be high for some pet parents. If you have a larger dog, then you must use a bigger container to hold all of the waste. Liquids will absorb into the litter, which means the container must have some capacity to manage the expansion. Male dogs need to have a tray with high sides. If you decide to pursue litter box training for your dog, then you will need to have a product that offers high sides if you have a male pup at home. There can be enthusiastic leg lifting when it is time to go to the bathroom, so something without the appropriate height will still encourage a mess in your home. Since a pup needs the tray to be low enough for them to step over it as well, this option tends to work better with female dogs unless you have a toy breed as a pet parent. You will need separate boxes for your pets. If you have a dog and a cat at home, then neither one will be satisfied with the idea of sharing a little box. Pet parents who try to force this issue will often encourage their cats to spray urine throughout the room with their little box as a way to mark their territory. Dogs can be the same way. You might even need to have separate trays for each pup at home if you have a pack. Placement away from other items that your dog might think is part of the litter box, like an area rug, scratching post, or another upright item, is essential for success. A dog litter box needs to be cleaned every day. Many pups refuse to use this option if their tray is not clean. The only advantage here for some pet parents is that you get to pick up the waste inside instead of outside. The litter can get into the spaces between the pads and their paw. Unless you use paper products, this waste can cause small injuries that can lead to swelling and infections that could restrict their movement. It will take some time and plenty of patience to teach your dog how to use a litter box. Although some pups never take to this idea very well, most small breeds can eventually learn this skill. Do you really have a house dog if they are spending half of their time outside trying to go to the bathroom?

The result was a success. In the latter decades, this dog has proved to be a good family pet, and is gradually gaining popularity among dog lovers in the West. Temperament and Behavior To talk about the characteristics of the Frengles, the first thing to mention is that, they are affectionate little dogs that are social, intelligent, alert, and playful and have a very even disposition, so much so that they get along well with all humans in general, and are always gentle and calm when it comes to interacting with them. This makes good family dogs ideal for apartment living. Occasional obstinacy is also a trait of these mini-size dogs, but they are always ready to please their owners and even other dogs, and this is one quality that is rare with other breeds. They would get along well with other pets, and with both older and small children, however, early socialization and supervision is also important. However, their attentiveness and alertness in attitude, and their instinct to bark at anything strange, weird or unusual, alerting their family members has made them good watchdogs. They are dogs that are active indoors and you would seldom find them sitting lazy in a corner, or sleeping. Care Exercise Frengles actually need daily walks or jogging, or a stroll to the dogs park for their mental stimulation, as also to consume their energy. They are very active with high levels of energy that would require ample opportunities to run and play. These are dogs that excel at dog agility training, and would cherish having a job to do. Play with them. This would not merely develop their bones of growth, but also would help build an even friendlier relation with you. If your frengle has taken more after the Beagle side of the family, it would need some space to run around and play, and for that, it would be benefited if they get a safe and small yard to play, but to mention, without its leash. Grooming Their short coat is easily maintainable, and the maintenance level is low. Brush their coat at least twice a week to keep it clean and retain the sheen. Health Problems Like most other crosses, no health problems reported that are specific to the breed. But since no dog is immune to diseases, consider meeting your vet from time to time for necessary vaccinations, as also for annual health checkups so as to ward off possibilities of genetic or generic dog diseases. Training The Frengle hounds are moderately easy to train. But, as mentioned, they might show signs of stubbornness from time to time. For this, you should be aware of the fact that, your frengle dog responds well to consistent and firm training, but that be accompanied with food rewards. As you adopt your frengle puppies from the breeders or rescue, they would be clingy. However, they would tend to loosen up with age. So, it is recommended that you start socializing them with other pets and humans right from birth, or from very tender age. It is from this age that you should begin to deliver all basic trainings like crate, housebreaking, obedience etc. Let your frengles be aware that, it is you who is the leader of its dog pack, and also, take them to new places and help them meet new people. Once training is a success with your frengle, you would be the proudest owner in your neighborhood. Since this is an active dog breed, make sure you pick the right food for your pet that would supply it with the right quantity of nutrients required through its daily meals, especially during its years of rapid growth. The choice of a long or a short tail depends on the choice of the breeders. Interestingly, unlike with many other dogs, having another pet dog in the same house would assist it in its development. The Frenchie we love today They were originally bred by crossing English Bulldogs and Parisian ratters to create the ionic Frenchie that we all know and love today. Frenchies are popular Did you know that Frenchies are the 1 most popular dog breed according to the American Kennel Club?! Beagles are intelligent Beagles are extremely intelligent with an insatiable desire to please their owners. And they make wonderful family pets They are still used for hunting although they also make wonderful family pets and companion dogs who can be trusted around young children and other animals in the house. A healthy breed Compare this to the Frenchie who is notorious for their long list of health problems. Frengles are super friendly and adaptable to living in the countryside or the city. Why the Frengle was created One of the main reasons why breeders began to cross Beagles with Frenchies was to reduce the health problems that many French Bulldogs can suffer from as a result of their short, stubby noses and restrictive airways. Frengles are becoming more popular Over the years the popularity of Frengles soared and now there are breeders all over America that specialize in breeding them. Frengle Health Problems Generally speaking, Frengles are a very healthy breed that has an average life expectancy of between 12 to 15 years, although sometimes they can live to be as old as 17 or 18! Frenchies, like most purebreds, are quite susceptible to a wide range of health complaints. Frenchies live around years on average. Beagles, on the other hand, are extremely healthy dogs and so crossing the two breeds has led to a healthy, longer-living dog. This is great news for owners who want to share their lives with a dog for many happy years! They have a lifespan of years. The Frengle has its own issues though As with any breed though, there are some health conditions that Frengles are susceptible to. The most common Frengle health problems The most common minor health complaints for Frengles include ear infections, entropion, skin allergies , and cherry eye. These are all easily treated if you visit your vet and catch the symptoms early. Frengle Highlights Frengles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their French Bulldog or Beagle parents. Frengles have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. They will enjoy a walk, trip to the dog park, or game of fetch in the backyard. The main colors of Frengles are tri, brown, cream, brindle, and spotted. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of those colors. They are generally not considered to be an ideal choice for those with allergies. Frengles are medium shedders and are easy to groom. A good daily brushing will probably do. These playful and affectionate pups make great companions for a single person as well as a wonderful addition to any family with children. Since Frengles may still have a bit of a prey drive, it is best to introduce them to any small pets while young and supervise their interactions. Obedience and potty training may come as a bit of a challenge, as the Frengle is known for their stubborn, headstrong personality. Frengle History The Frengle mixed breed may have existed naturally over the years, but the designer breeders started intentionally mixing French Bulldogs and Beagles in the United States in recent years. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to help minimize breathing issues that affect French Bulldogs because of their short snouts. They continued to create Frengles as demand for this mixed breed rose over the years. Even though the Frengle got their start as a designer breed, some end up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the right mixed breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up rescues, or check with breed specific French Bulldog or Beagle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Frengle Size As the Frengle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between a French Bulldog and a Beagle, you can expect Frengles to be on the small side. Most weigh in at 18 to 30 pounds and range in height from eight to 15 inches at the shoulder. However, size differences can occur between males and females. A female would usually be slightly smaller than the male. Frengle Personality Many Frengle owners describe their pups as playful and social. Seeing as they are on the smaller side, they will love cuddling up in your lap just as much as running around playing fetch in your backyard. Since Frengles are part Beagle, many Frengles maintain their prey drive and can become easily distracted by scents. The Frengle is almost loyal to a fault and will even be friendly with people they may have just met. They love their family unconditionally and despite their very outgoing nature, will defend their home from strangers by barking to alert their owner of an intruder. They respond best to treats as rewards and positive reinforcement from their owners. Frengle Health The Frengle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Beagle and French Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Frengles suffer from include: Epilepsy. Most dogs need around calories per pound per day to maintain a healthy weight, so the average Frengle will need to get about calories a day to maintain a healthy weight. Frengles can vary in size, but around 1 or 2 cups of dry food a day should be sufficient for the average Frengle. Wet food can be added to their diet, which will also give them additional moisture. Dry kibble can help keep their teeth clean and reduce tartar build-up and dental issues. Bulldogs tend to inhale air when eating, and this can cause bloating and flatulence. They have fairly sensitive digestive systems, and this can carry on to their Frengle offspring. This trait is further exacerbated by foods like soy, beans, dairy products, and wheat, so these should all be ideally avoided. Small-sized dry kibble can help them eat more slowly and help them avoid ingesting too much air. Beagles are known for eating almost anything, so they are not picky when it comes to food. Their high energy levels mean they will benefit more from eating two small meals a day, as opposed to a single large one. Protein is essential for any dog, but both Bulldogs and Beagles will thrive from having slightly more than average. However, too much protein can quickly lead to obesity, so the amount of protein should be closely monitored and then altered according to how active your Frengle is and their age. Around 1 gram of protein per pound is ideal. Growing Frengle puppies especially need loads of exercise and play to burn off excess energy. A common rule-of-thumb is 5 minutes for every month of age, twice a day, until adulthood. The Frengle can be a fairly active breed, and they love physical activities like walking and running with their owners. A minimum of 30 minutes a day is recommended, but they should ideally get hours. Toys, balls, and stick games are bound to be a hit with Frengles and will aid in keeping them both mentally and physically stimulated. These toy games will also help keep their chewing instincts at bay. Bulldogs have a reputation for being docile but can exert a great deal of energy when excited. Beagles, on the other hand, are particularly high-energy dogs, and will need regular exercise in order to burn it off. The Frengle is usually a good mix of the two, enjoying lounging on the sofa but also benefiting greatly from physical activity. A lack of sufficient exercise with any dog breed will quickly lead to bad behavior, including barking, chewing, and aggression, and daily exercise is essential to having a well-behaved dog. Early socialization and reward-based training will help get them used to commands quicker and encourage them to enjoy and look forward to training sessions. As with most dogs, patience is key to good training, and the reward of a well-behaved Frengle is worth it. Training sessions of minutes at a time is ideal, as Frengles may lose concentration fairly quickly. They will respond well to positive reinforcement training , as it will greatly appeal to their desire to please their owners. That said, they do shed, and are not ideal for owners who suffer from allergies. Both the French Bulldog and Beagle are known to be medium shedders, and the Frengle is generally the same. Even though the Frengle has a short coat, brushing is still necessary. While the occasional brush is a good idea, bathing should be done only when they are muddy or dirty, as both the parent breeds are known to suffer from dry skin. Their short coat also makes them sensitive to cold weather, and they should have a sweater when outside in cold climates for extended periods. Regular nail clipping is recommended for all dogs, as long nails can be painful for them and even cause arthritis if left unmanaged. Due to the long droopy ears of some Frengles, there is a lack of airflow to the ear canal, and ear infections can be fairly common. It is important to keep the inside of their ear canals dry and perform regular checks for redness or discharge. If your Frengle is showing discomfort by incessantly scratching and rubbing their ears, a check-up with the vet may be necessary. That said, Frengle offspring can still develop issues relating to their parent breeds. Another common condition is epilepsy, in which your dog can experience mild to severe seizures. These seizures can be as harmless as a mild twitch or uncontrollable shaking that can last up to several minutes. Hypothyroidism is also a fairly common illness in Bulldogs and occurs when your dog is not secreting enough thyroid hormones. It is usually easily managed with appropriate medication. Bulldogs and French Bulldogs commonly have mild eye issues, mainly cherry eye and entropion. These conditions are typically genetically inherited, so there is a chance of them being handed down to your Frengle. Cherry eye is the term used for a prolapsed third eyelid in dogs and was historically remedied by surgical removal. However, it is easily remedied nowadays with an anti-inflammatory ointment. In most dogs, this is nothing more than a mild irritation, but it can cause vision problems long term. Unless you intend on breeding your Frengle, it is widely recommended to neuter males and spay females, as this has many associated health benefits. For males, it assists in prevention from testicular cancer, will make them less aggressive, and will also prevent them from wandering off looking for females. Spaying a female will help assist in the prevention of uterine infections and cancer. It is recommended to spay a female before her first heat, as this will further help prevent these complications. If you do intend to breed a female Frengle, it is far better for her health to wait until she has experienced at least one or two heats. Minor Conditions. Frengle Hound Description The Frengle is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Beagle and the French Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He loves to go for walks ; we try and do a minute walk every other day. In the summer he loves to go for a quick swim at the lake. As soon as he gets home, he turns into a couch potato. This little love bug is eager to snuggle up to you when you're watching TV or reading. He loves people and other dogs.He only has one enemy and that's our vacuum the sounds really upset him. Although he'll be 3 at the end of October, he's still looks like a puppy. He didn't get the Beagle appetite.He's 28 pounds of pure happiness and is always there to cheer you up when you're having a rough day. She is 10 months old in this picture. She is a very loving, active, fun-loving dog. She is the most popular dog in the dog run popular with the dogs and people. She has no fear and thinks life is only fun and games. She has no fear and does not know how to get mad. She will run around the park chasing other dogs and wrestling for the full hour and a half that we spend there. She weighs 23 pounds and will play with toy Pomeranians that weigh nothing and Great Danes about 8 times her size. Although she is a very active dog when we are out, at home she loves to snuggle and curl up in the bed with you. I live in New York City in a tiny apartment and she goes outside at least 3 times a day 45 minutes in the morning, 1. Abbey is a lot of joy to have; my only problem with her would be her chewing or the things she likes to chew. She seems to love to chew leather and fuzzy things. Sometimes at night or early in the morning I hear her snort in her sleep. I love the Frengle; you just have to make sure to give them enough exercise. Brown, cream, solid or mixed variations of black and spotted Suitable for families Families with children, seniors, and singles Temperament Playful, affectionate, and friendly. Despite its name, the French Bulldog was first bred in England. The small animals were created as companion dogs. During the Industrial Revolution, some French workers emigrated with these dogs, and they became lapdogs. In the s, these dogs became popular in America, where they got their current nickname, Frenchie. By the 15th century, they were used for hunting in England. But in the 18th century, they got dropped in favor of foxhounds which were much faster. They were later imported to America and bred as tiny dogs. Today, while Beagles are used as sniffer dogs and guide dogs, French Bulldogs are solely companion pets. This breed might be a bit challenging to train because it inherits the stubbornness from both parent breeds. However, when trained and socialized early, these dog breeds remain loyal to you. Physically, they resemble both parent breeds and pick varying features. Frengles are short and strong and come with short legs and a broad chest. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This is a pup that has a unique appearance and personality. Frengles usually have a short, muscular build and a short snout, similar to the French Bulldog, combined with the longer, droopy ears of the Beagle. Frengles are known to be great with children and other animals and are typically good-natured and easy-going. They are also known for their strong hunting instincts and love for adventure. Training and socialization from an early age is important to ensure that your Frengle grows up to be a well-behaved and obedient companion. Overall, the Frengle is a wonderful pet that is sure to bring joy and excitement to your life! They can also be stubborn if not socialized properly. They are calm and gentle, which is excellent if you need a companion. When indoors, they love to snuggle with their owners. These dog breeds tend to be wary around strangers until they get used to them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their Beagle heritage loves running around with children and playing. Therefore, if you have small kids, these playful dogs will enjoy their company. However, if your dog has a Beagle dominant side, they need to exercise and play a lot due to their hunting origins. You can incorporate the playtime with the kids. Frengles that pick dominant French Bulldog traits have low energy but will be calm and entertaining for the family. These combinations of features are perfect for even seniors and single people. It makes an excellent indoor dog. Your pet will also like being the center of attention. Because of this, you should spend a lot of time with them. Socialization is essential for Frengles. You need to plan for diet and nutrition needs, grooming, exercise, training, and watch out for any health issues. If you just got a Frengle, here are the crucial things you need to consider. Endure your dog is eating high-quality food for proper nutrition. Despite its tiny size, this dog breed can be energetic, which needs to be factored in the diet. In a day, an average-sized Frengle will need about 1 or 2 cups of dry food. You can also add some food that has moisture and dry kibble to keep their teeth clean. On average, the daily caloric intake should be about calories for your dog to maintain a healthy weight. You should have a minimum of two servings if you are dog is of healthy weight. As a descendant of the Bulldog, they tend to inhale air while eating, which affects their stomach at the end of the meal. If your Frengle has these issues, try and avoid foods such as wheat products, dairy products, soy, and beans. However, the portions must be closely monitored to avoid obesity. Your vet can help you customize the amount of protein to feed your pup according to their age and health conditions. A post shared by Charleston charlie. Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your dog. In addition, daily exercise keeps your dog happy. As puppies, especially ones with more Beagle traits, they need loads of exercise to burn off energy. This dog breed loves running and walking with its caretakers. You can schedule exercise sessions for about 30 minutes to 2 hours daily, depending on how active your dog is. This dog also loves mental stimulation; therefore, add some toys and balls to chew. Take them to a dog park to play with other dogs, but ensure they are on a leash. This will prevent them from running off in search of scents. The Frengle draws a mix of energy between the two parent breeds. While Bulldogs are docile, Beagles are very high-energy dogs that need exercise to burn off energy. Therefore, your Frengle will enjoy a good workout and also lounge on the sofa with you in the evening. If your pet is not getting enough exercise, it will become aggressive and start chewing items and barking. These destructive behaviors can be a lot to handle and frustrating. Also, using positive techniques and keeping your tone firm helps. The pup will appreciate treats and rewards, which encourages them to catch up with the training much quicker to please the owner. However, you should avoid scolding them, which can make them tougher to train. Frengles tend to lose their concentration quickly; therefore, training sessions should ideally be minutes at a time. Reward-based training and early socialization and reward-based training is the key to get your puppy to understand commands quicker and encourage them to look forward to training sessions. They are medium shedders, which is not ideal for people with allergies. Due to their short hair, they are also sensitive to cold weather. A Frengle should have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent dental issues. The nails should be trimmed, especially because long nails can be painful if your dog has arthritis. Their long droopy ears are highly prone to ear infections. To prevent these, regularly check for discharge or redness and keep the inside of the ears clean. If your dog is itchy or scratches the ears often, have them checked by a vet to rule out any issues. The Freagle tends to have the stature of its French Bulldog parent while retaining the shape of the head of the Beagle. Common Freagle coat color patterns include black, white, brown, golden, cream, brindle, merle, black, and tan, speckled, and spotted variations. Discover more about our Freagle puppies for sale below! Temperament The Freagle is an affectionate little breed that is social, intelligent, alert, and playful; so much so that they get along well with adults, children, and other pets. However, their attentiveness, alertness in attitude, and their instinct to bark at anything strange have made them okay watchdogs. Since this breed has parents with varied and wide-ranging temperaments, you might only be able to get a hint of the temperament of your Freagle puppy until it has matured a little. Care Due to their activity level, Freagles need daily walks, jogging, or a stroll to the dog park for mental stimulation. They are a very active breed with high energy levels that will require ample opportunities to run and play. This breed can excel at agility training and would cherish having a job to do. If your Freagle has taken more after the Beagle parent, it would need some space to run around and play such as a safe and small yard to play. You can brush their coat twice a week to keep it clean and retain the sheen. Training Freagles are moderately easy to train but might show signs of stubbornness from time to time so patience and consistency is important. As with other breeds, socialization, housebreaking, and supervision at a young age are important. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.

What is Elbow Dysplasia? The condition eventually causes pain whenever the forelimb is moved and may eventually cause arthritis. Trauma to the elbow joint can also lead to changes within the elbow that mimic elbow dysplasia, but this disease results from genetic factors that cause abnormalities in joint formation, not trauma. Symptoms of Elbow Dysplasia: Dogs who have elbow dysplasia may show signs of the disease by suffering from mild to moderate pain and lameness in their forelimbs as early as four months old or they may not have any symptoms until later in their life. Even though the disease can manifest at any age, it is commonly diagnosed when dogs are around two years old. Dog owners frequently take the dog to the vet complaining of stiffness in the front legs but both elbow joints are usually affected. How soon a dog will show symptoms is related to how severe the abnormality in the joint is. Dogs eventually develop arthritis inflammation in the joint from years of the parts of the joint rubbing against each other. On physical examination the vet may find pain when the elbow is manipulated. There may also be swelling, crepitus a crunching noise and a decrease in the range of motion the dog has. There are different types of elbow dysplasia and the vet may order a CT scan to identify which type of elbow dysplasia the dog has. In addition, arthroscopy surgery or open joint surgery is considered the best way to determine the extent of the damage in the joint. If arthritis has already set in it is more difficult to know how beneficial this surgery will be. Arthroscopic surgery surgically inserting a scope -is considered the best option for cases that are good candidates for surgical intervention. Open joint surgery — may also be the best option for some cases. Board-certified veterinary surgeons are advisable for the surgical diagnosis and treatment of all forms of elbow dysplasia. Elbow replacement surgery — is currently being researched, but still unavailable. Non-Surgical Options: We can manage pain by treating dogs with pain relieving drugs and glucosamine and fatty acid supplements. However, due to the discomfort and debilitation a dog suffers from this disease, some dogs may have increased lameness and even a decreased lifespan. Prevention: The best way to prevent elbow dysplasia is to prevent it from occurring by not breeding dogs can pass it to future generations. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Panosteitis is an inflammatory disease that generally affects the long bones of young, large breed dogs, especially GSDs. Primarily it affects fatty bone marrow and has subsequent effects on the surrounding bone Shell .It can occur in any bone that contains a significant volume of marrow but, as marrow is largely found in the diaphysis shafts of the long bones, these are the most commonly affected sites. Long bones are the bones of the limbs. They are essentially supporting columns that have to carry the weight of the animal. These epiphyses have an outer layer of compact bone and spongy bone in their centre. Between the epiphyses and the diaphysis in young animals are the growth, or epiphyseal, plates which are the zones in which bone lengthening occurs. The diaphysis the shaft of the bone has, in cross section, an outer thin fibrous layer of tissue called the periosteum and, inside this, a wide layer of compact bone which provides the strength. In the centre of the shaft is the bone marrow cavity that contains the soft, blood cell producing, haemopoietic bone marrow and yellow fatty bone marrow. Bone is a dynamic, living tissue that can slowly respond to the forces exerted on it by remodelling, strengthening and repairing itself. To do this it has cells called osteoblasts which produce bone and osteoclasts which dissolve it. In animals affected with panosteitis, the fat cells of the yellow marrow degenerate, inflammation occurs and this tissue is replaced with fibrous tissue, which in turn is calcified and turned into spongy bone tissue, as osteoblasts, osteoclasts and fibroblasts fibrous tissue-producing cells are activated Shell , Brooks .Ultimately, as the disease process subsides, this new bone is removed as part of the normal bone remodelling processes and the fatty marrow regenerates. The causes of panosteitis are unknown Shell , Brooks .Various possible causes have been proposed as listed below. The theory is that high protein levels lead to oedema fluid collection and retention within the tissues of the medullary cavity. As the bone is rigid this extra volume of fluid causes compression of blood vessels and to inadequate blood supply to the tissues of the bone, leading to inflammation ischaemia Schawalder et al a, b, Shell .Because some breeds of dogs including GSDs and Bassett hounds are predisposed to the disease, the implication is that there may be a genetic cause to the condition Brooks .Stress is often thought to play a role Shell .Generally affecting juvenile dogs, the disease is usually self-limiting and spontaneously regresses once sexual maturity is reached between months of age, but some individuals may be still affected in middle-age Bohning et al , Berry .Males are affected more frequently than females Trostel et al , Shell .Affected dogs may be lethargic, show a loss of appetite and have a raised temperature. These signs often last from a few days to a few weeks, disappear and then reoccur i. Handling the limb may elicit a pain response. Reoccurrences of the signs may coincide with periods of stress Shell .Until spontaneous regression of the condition occurs, pain-relieving medicating is often needed and reduction of stress and activity levels are also recommended Shell .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact During bouts of panosteitis, affected GSDs exhibit signs of significant limb pain. They react to having the affected bones touched. Affected dogs also often feel ill due to fever. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact The disease usually starts at between five and 18 months of age and is often recurrent. It regresses in most individuals once they reach sexual maturity at between months, but some GSDs are affected until they are seven years of age Bohning et al , Berry .Individual bouts may last for weeks to months at a time Shell .Return to top 4. Number of animals affected The GSD is the breed most commonly affected with panosteitis. Return to top 5. Diagnosis Panosteitis may be suspected in a juvenile GSD showing lameness. However other orthopaedic conditions also commonly occur in young GSDs so confirmation of the diagnosis needs to be made using radiography x-rays Shell , Berry .The radiographic appearance of the tissues of the bone changes during the course of the condition and such radiographic changes lag behind the clinical signs by about days so it is possible for an affected dog to have initial lameness without being able to detect corresponding radiographic changes Shell .This can make diagnosis difficult. Blood tests may show an eosinophilia higher than normal concentrations of a particular white blood cell type Shell .Return to top 6. There is no genetic test for the disease. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? It is not known if unaffected carriers of the gene s exist - animals that do not have the disease themselves but are able to pass on the gene s that cause the disease to their offspring - and, as far as we know, there is no information about the heritability of panosteitis in GSDs. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem As far as we are aware, there are no breeding schemes aimed at reducing the incidence of panosteitis. With the current state of knowledge it is difficult to give good advice. Generally it seems sensible not to breed from individuals that have been affected by the disease or which have more than a very few affected relatives including siblings and siblings of parents Bell .Prospective dog owners may wish to avoid acquiring dogs of breeds in which there is a high prevalence of the disease in order to help avoid perpetuating the problem unless they are able to ascertain that the disease does not occur or is very rare in the particular lineage of the dog they are interested in acquiring. Return to top 9. Inherited genetic diseases are something that develops when the gene pool becomes small enough to be forced to breed dogs with less than exceptional health. A study has concluded that elbow dysplasia cases had a 0. While this is a low percentage of dogs affected compared to hip dysplasia, German shepherds were found to be a high-risk breed. Canine degenerative myelopathy is another progressive neurological disorder that GSDs are prone to. While thirty-five percent of German shepherds are carriers of the DM gene mutation, the percentage of dogs that are affected by the mutation is much lower. Unwelcome gene mutations can also have serious consequences on the muscle tone of a German shepherd, resulting in front leg problems. The two most common conditions are muscle dystrophy and atrophy. Yet another neurological disease that exhibits symptoms consistent with front leg problems is Cervical spondylomyelopathy, commonly known as Wobbler syndrome. Although German shepherds are not known for being susceptible to it, it can still occur in GSD puppies. Dog limbs can be affected by tumors as well. Progressive leg paralysis due to masses pressing on the peripheral spinal nerves can be asymptomatic for a while, and then suddenly cause complete loss of sensation and ability to walk once the tumor has done serious damage. Other possible causes of German shepherd front leg problems include injury to any part of the foot or leg, or insect bites. Since these are the most common conditions, we can start off with them. Here are some tips on how to treat a limping dog at home in case of mild injury. Trauma And Insect Bites Front legs problems can be caused by something as simple as a toenail injury. Running and slippery surfaces are often behind a broken nail, which can cause your German shepherd to limp or have an irregular gait due to the nail separating from the quick. It is not uncommon for dogs to step on an insect and get stung or bitten on the paw pads. This can be subsumed under the injury category, since the damage caused to soft tissue can become infected, and spread across the many structural parts of the front legs. Car accidents take up a large portion of trauma-caused front legs problems in GSDs. Broken bones, torn tendons or ligaments, and nerve damage can all have clinical signs that manifest themselves through limping, difficulty moving, chronic pain, or arthritis. Although osteoarthritis is usually a secondary condition that occurs due to bone tissue damage, a German shepherd will be in a lot of pain because of it. Muscular Problems Similar clinical signs affecting the front legs can also originate from a muscular problem, such as dystrophy or atrophy. While these are most frequently associated with defective genes on the X chromosome. Male German shepherds are more likely to have this mutation due to a singular copy of the X chromosome from the parents. A faulty version of the dystrophin protein that causes leakage of internal cell content does not allow proper development and function of muscles. Without enough muscle mass, a dog will not be able to move their joints properly. The condition gets progressively worse with a GSDs age, until the muscles become completely atrophic. This essentially means there are no muscle fibers to support normal body function, which makes the GSD look skinny. .Keeping the muscle mass at a good level can be hard with dystrophy, but we might have just the guide for you on how to build muscle on a German shepherd dog. Cervical Spondylomyelopathy Wobbler syndrome is caused by pressure on the nerves in the neck cervical section of the spine caused by spine compression. It generally affects large breeds like German shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and giant dog breeds, such as Great Danes. The combination of these clinical signs often leads to toenail and feet injuries due to the lack of sensation in the limbs. Broken toenails, knuckling, and callous skin are all common secondary signs of Wobbler syndrome. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy One of the most debilitating diseases in dogs is degenerative myelopathy. The onset of symptoms usually occurs in German shepherds aged eight or older. It carries a bad prognosis, which means there is no treatment for the condition itself. German shepherds are a high risk group for CDM. Though it is mainly a congenital disease, environmental factors can increase the predisposition of a GSD to develop the genetic mutation. Incomplete diets that do not provide all the required nutrients can increase the chance of genetic disorders, so consider putting your German shepherd on a raw diet. If you think raw food diets are controversial, read this article and decide for yourself. Since it targets the spinal cord, the degeneration of the central and peripheral nervous system leads to incoordination of the hind limbs. The symptoms are very similar to hip dysplasia, but the progression of clinical signs onto the front limbs delineates it from HD. Other symptoms are irregular gait, loss of muscle mass, poor balance while standing, limb paralysis, and urinary and bowel incontinence in the later stages of the disease. Physical rehabilitation and a specific diet can slow down the progression, but there is no cure. Elbow Dysplasia Joint diseases, such as dysplasia, are most commonly congenital, but trauma can be the underlying cause, too. The congenital variant is characterized by abnormal anatomy of the elbow joint that causes bone tissue damage, and ultimately arthritis. The long bones of a German shepherds front legs need to perfectly fit into the adjacent structures tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones for full anatomical function. With developmental problems, some of those parts do not fully mature. An imperfect fit between those parts of the front leg will have odd ranges of motion that interfere with adjacent structures, causing tissue damage. Compromised and broken blood vessels lead to the development of arthritis, which can be extremely painful for a dog. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs are regularly prescribed for alleviating arthritis pain, but there are some effective home remedies for dog joint pain you can try out. Clinical signs include trouble standing and moving, low exercise tolerance, irregular gait, inability to stand up, etc. Although there are surgical procedures that can treat elbow dysplasia to a degree, they are quite complex and expensive. Keep in mind that obesity increases the risk of elbow dysplasia. Keep your dog fit and healthy with a proper diet and regular exercise. If you are wondering how heavy your dog should be, we have the answer for you. Depending on the location of the tumor, either front or back limbs might become paralyzed. It is not uncommon for dogs to exhibit symptoms consistent with degenerative myelopathy, or elbow dysplasia, making early diagnosis difficult. Symptoms will often come and go, as the mass can shrink and expand. Sudden onset of symptoms typically happens when the tumor is positioned so that it puts the biggest amount of pressure on the nerves, but subside once the dog changes its body position. The most frequent clinical signs are limping, partial or full leg paralysis, irregular gait, feet dragging, etc. Taking immediate action after spotting any of these signs can save your dogs life, so do not delay that visit to the vet. Conclusion German shepherd front legs problems can point to something as simple as a bee sting, or as serious as degenerative myelopathy. While taking a stinger out and calling it a day is a simple fix, the proposition of being unable to help your dog with a debilitating disease can be devastating. Never assume it is nothing serious with such serious symptoms. I hope you and your GSD will never have to worry about any of these conditions. If you notice your puppy is limping, it could be because of a: Bone break or fracture Muscle strain, pull or tear A slipped disc A torn or damaged ligament A cut or laceration on a paw or base of the leg Any of the above injuries or body damage could be caused by rough play, falling or landing awkwardly, poor genetic, or just general day to day activity. Higher energy puppies or puppies that engage in a lot of physical activity could be more at risk. With something particularly painful like a broken bone or deep laceration, the limping could have an immediate onset. You have to remember with puppies that they are still developing physically and growing. Particularly in large dogs, if they grow too quickly, they may develop injuries more frequently. A side effect of arthritis can be lameness in a leg — which can cause limping. Arthritis in dogs can occur over time with natural wear and tear, as a result of injuries, or as a result of a disease like hip dysplasia for example. This is why you should always check the official OFA hip and elbow certification of your puppy and their parents before you buy — and get a guarantee on the health of the pup against latent defects developing. With hip and elbow dysplasia, a malformation in the joint leads to deterioration of the cartilage according to assisianimalhealth. There are also other infectious diseases, and cruciate ligament disease, neuromuscular disease, and cancers which can cause limping. The best person to let you know which legs on your GSD are affected by a cause of limping is your vet. As in with humans, a dog might have a chronic disease like arthritis for example. The joints may deteriorate and the dog might develop a limp, but the leg may simply become lame with little or no pain. More German Shepherd Limping Resources 1. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon. Additionally, TheDailyShep. Information provided is for informational purposes only — it is not a substitute for professional or qualified advice. By consuming this information, you accept that TheDailyShep. You should always consult your own veterinarian, animal expert, or health care professional and follow their advice before making decisions on all matters. Enjoy your reading, and thank you for being here ','. It occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. Your dog may walk slowly or awkwardly, and he will generally favor one leg over the other. There are two types of limping that your German Shepherd may experience. Some forms occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens instantly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be managed at home, while others will necessitate the assistance of a medical professional. Too much of a good thing such as fetch, frisbee, intense running, or rough play with other dogs can leave your German Shepherd sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. Most dogs, though, will recover quickly after a few days of rest. Wounds on the footpads. Look out for your GSD incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by hot sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your dog to limp. In extreme weather, hot or cold, get your GSD some booties or paw protectors. A thorn or stone stuck in the pads. Again carefully check the pads for a thorn or small stone that may have lodged between the paw pads. Remember to keep the fur around the pads and toes trim to enable you to examine the paws easier, especially as some dogs find this area quite sensitive. Toenail injuries. Examine your German Shepherd for ingrowing or overgrown toenails , as these can cause discomfort and pain if they dig into the skin. My GSD once had a dewclaw injury that required surgical removal, so make sure you also keep these trim. An insect sting or animal bite. Stings and bites can cause limping. Your GSD may raise his paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can result in injury and infection. Fracture or dislocation. If the limping began suddenly, a fractured leg or a dislocated bone should be suspected. A shattered bone will prevent your dog from bearing any weight. A sprain occurs when a ligament or tendon is strained or torn. Something as simple as leaping off the couch and landing awkwardly can cause it. Your German Shepherd will be reluctant to put any weight on his leg or paw. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition in German Shepherds that causes hip and elbow joints to become loose and shift out of position. Sadly, .This persistent, painful condition is more common in older and larger canines. As a result of cartilage deterioration, it causes joint inflammation. Lameness, stiffness, or trouble getting up are all symptoms. Cruciate ligament injury or disease. This occurs when one or both of the cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together are damaged. Limping is the most common symptom of a cruciate injury, and it can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can happen all of a sudden or gradually. Luxating patella dislocated knee. It is common in smaller breeds, but German Shepherds are one of the larger breeds prone to developing luxating patellas. Your dog may be in pain and reluctant to bear weight on the affected limb. An infection of the leg or paw can cause your dog to hobble. He may lick and chew the site and may need a course of antibiotics. Also, to prevent further inflammation, your GSD may be advised to wear the dreaded cone of shame Elizabethan collar. Lyme disease. This bacterial infection spread by ticks can result in intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy. This genetic condition affects the spinal cord, leading to eventual paralysis of the back end in older dogs. Weakness, lameness in the rear legs, and incontinence are all symptoms. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains. Panosteitis is a condition affecting the long bones of the legs due to severe inflammation. It can affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the GSD. It caused a shifting lameness from one bone to another and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy is a bone disease occurring in quick-growing large dogs, usually between the 3 and 5 months stage. The German Shepherd is one of the breeds prone. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD. OCD is a disease of the cartilage whereby inflammation causes it to separate from the bone. The shoulder is the most usually affected area; however, the elbow, hip, and knee can also be impacted. It occurs when large puppies develop too quickly. Symptoms include limping, lameness, and pain. German Shepherds are predisposed to OCD; however, the offending gene has not been identified. Hind limb weakness, paralysis, or urinary incontinence are symptoms of this spinal disease. It is caused by intervertebral disk degeneration and protrusion, which compresses the spinal cord. Dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Lumbosacral Foraminal Stenosis. A degenerative condition of the lower spine resembling sciatica or a slipped disc in humans. The subsequent narrowing can cause nerve compression resulting in lameness. It occurs in medium-large breeds of middle to old age. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and working dogs are susceptible to Lumbosacral Stenosis. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis. This is an immune system condition that results in inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your German Shepherd will be reluctant to walk or will limp on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic neuropathy. If diabetes is uncontrolled, excessive glucose can cause gradual weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in canines. Congenital limb deformities. Abnormally developed limbs can cause your dog to limp. These are pretty rare, and a study of congenital deformities of the limbs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer. Bone tumors can grow quickly, causing limping and pain, especially in the legs. Large and giant breeds are more prone to it. Limping can range from mild to severe. However, she is doing really well with exercise modification techniques along with anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication. My vet recommended these, they get good reviews online, and they seem to be working for her. She sleeps on the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce pain and joint stiffness. You can check out my comprehensive review here. For more severe cases such as broken bones, orthopedic surgery may be required. How to Treat a Limping German Shepherd at Home Knowing how to treat your limping German Shepherd at home by giving first aid is fundamental to help minimize any further injury or pain. Firstly, pinpoint the affected leg, evaluate its seriousness and whether your dog needs medical assistance. So, how do you treat a limping GSD at home? To treat a limping German Shepherd at home, gently examine your dog, starting at the paw. Check the pads and between the toes, and slowly work your way up, looking for cuts or foreign bodies. Gently maneuver the joints for stiffness, but do not examine if your GSD is in severe pain. Remove any foreign bodies between the toes. Clean the wound with anti-bacterial soap. Finally, apply antibiotic ointment. For cut or torn pads and broken nails. If you cannot stop the bleeding in minutes, take your pet to the vet. Apply a bandage and change daily. For burned paw pads. If the pad becomes discolored or if the tissue underneath becomes exposed, contact your veterinarian. Apply antibiotic ointment to the burned pad, bandage, and change the dressing daily. For abscesses. Apply warm compresses to the affected area or soak in a warm Epsom salts bath. If the abscess bursts, take your doggo to the vet to get the wound cleaned and some antibiotics. For swelling due to a sprain or bruising. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15 minutes twice a day. Place your GSD in the bath, and swirl the water around his leg, or spray with a gentle hose for 15 minutes twice daily. Flowing water reduces swelling, improves circulation, and helps with healing. Confine lame dogs and restrict their activity. Your German Shepherd will have a far better chance of recovery if you provide first aid when appropriate and seek prompt veterinary care if needed. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. German Shepherds are not only excellent companion dogs, but also very competent working dogs. They excel in being guide dogs, police dogs, tracking dogs, to name just a few. The German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the U. Unfortunately, German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health problems, some of these problems are common among large breed dogs. German Shepherd Health Problems Related to the Joints As a large breed dog, the German Shepherd has several health problems that affect their joints, such as: Hip Dysplasia: A dog with hip dysplasia has a deformed hip joint. In many cases, the hip socket is too shallow to fully and firmly hold the ball-shaped thighbone. Sometimes, it also means that the muscles, ligament, and connective tissue surrounding the joint may not be strong enough to hold the "ball and socket" together. Hip dysplasia in dogs can cause a lot of pain and inflammation in the affected hip joint, and the dog will have problem walking and getting up with ease. Visit our article on Hip Dysplasia in Dogs for more information on this joint problem in dogs. Elbow Dysplasia: Osteochondritis of the elbow elbow dysplasia is a hereditary disease but may also be caused by poor nutrition or injury. This problem is characterized by the elbow joints of the front legs being malformed, due probably to different growth rates of the three bones making up the elbow. Dogs with this condition usually display an obvious limp - they may hold the leg out from the body while walking, or even attempt to carry the front leg completely, putting no weight on it at all. Signs may be noted as early as four months of age. Elbow dysplasia is a lifelong problem, although some dogs can be helped with surgery which, in some cases, can eliminate the problem totally. Panosteitis: Panosteitis also known as "long bone disease," or "pano" is a health condition that commonly affects German Shepherd dogs who are still growing. It causes sudden lameness which is a result of excessive bone production on the long bones of the front and hind legs, causing inflammation. It is most commonly seen in dogs between the ages of five to 12 months. Usually a dog affected by this condition will grow out of the problem by 18 months old, but it is painful. Puppies on a high-protein diet are prone to pano, because this kind of diet makes the puppy grow too fast. German Shepherd Health Problems Related to the Nervous System These two German Shepherd health problems are connected with the nervous system, and can cause a lot of hardship to the dog: Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Epilepsy is one of the most common German Shepherd health problems. The age at onset is 5 to 14 years. DM is an autoimmune disease in which the dog's own immune system attacks his central nervous system. As a result, the dog suffers from progressive neural tissue damage. At its early stage, the dog's hind limbs will be affected - the muscles will be weakened and you can notice a loss of coordination in the hind limbs. As the disease progresses, the dog may also display symptoms such as incontinence, has considerable difficulties with both balance and walking, and eventual paralysis. The treatment of DM involves exercise, dietary supplementation, medication, and other supportive measures. Bloating in dogs could be life-threatening and prone veterinary attention is needed. If your GSD is prone to this problem, be sure to read our article on dog bloating for more information. Perianal Fistulas: Perianal fistulas are chronic and progressive lesions that occur around the anus in dogs. Perianal fistulas most commonly occur in middle-aged years old male dogs, but can occur in dogs as young as 1 year and as old as 14 years. The exact cause of this condition is unclear. It is believed that inflammation of the sweat and sebaceous glands in and around the anus causes infection. As a result, abscesses form, open, and then drain. Dogs with tails that set low and carried close to the body e. German Shepherds are prone to these fistulas because air does not circulate under the tail, making it an excellent environment for bacteria to multiply. Symptoms of this condition include constant chewing or licking of the perianal area, and scooting across the floor. Other symptoms may include constipation, diarrhea, or bloodly stool. Ulcers and bleeding may be seen around the anal area, as well as foul-smelling discharge. Therefore, excessive bleeding is a hallmark symptom of this disease, which afflicts German Shepherds quite often. Dogs affected by this disease are more likely to have excessive bleeding episodes upon injury. The dog may also develop nosebleeds or bleeding from the gums. Some dogs may have internal organ bleeding e. FTC Disclosure: If you make a purchase via a link on this page, I may receive a small commission, at no added cost to you. It greatly helps dogs with epilepsy. Furminator De-shedding Tool German Shepherds have dense coats that shed throughout the year, with increased shedding once or twice a year. This excellent tool helps to control shedding by removing not cutting the loose and dead undercoat hair that is the underlying source of shedding. The stainless steel edge grabs and removes the loose undercoat hair without damaging the topcoat. Highly recommended! Hip Dysplasia is an issue commonly occurring in most big-size dog breeds like GSD. Some lazy, small-size breeds that are not physically strong and agile may also suffer from it. The only way to prevent it is by paying attention to the nutrition and physical activity needs of dogs. A regular examination from the vet can also help. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative Myelopathy is an uncommon nerve disorder, but a reality in dogs. The disease progression of this disorder shows its origin from the spinal cord. When not treated or in an advanced stage, the disease covers the hind portion of the body and weakens it. Thus, the GSD suffering from degenerative myelopathy shows discomfort in walking and maintaining posture. Panosteitis Panosteitis is an inflammatory disease of the bone marrow. The disease can emanate from not feeding the dog correctly, which leads to the formation of fatty deposits in the bone marrow. Some researchers associate it with defective genes, but the researchers are yet to trace the complete genetic association. Is the regal fruit right for your dog royalty? And their concerns are real. Researchers attribute this deformity to the neuro- and musculo-degenerative disorder called Myasthenia Gravis. However, those who did not suffer too fatal symptoms, still struggled with issues like deformed limbs, bad posture and joint pain. The leg problems diagnosed in GSDs that suffered from Myasthenia Gravis were: Difficulty rising up on legs Inability to maintain posture Resistance to fetching games, exercising Slight limping Bent legs Sometimes, the disease is not the reason for bent legs though. This characteristic may arise due to breeding and can be considered as an identifying feature to spot pure breeds from mixed ones. It is the chronic counterpart of muscular degeneropathy and differs distinctly from the latter in cause and progression. Mostly, it is the sign of aging in this species and poses a problem when this furry angel shows the signs of premature degeneration of hind leg bones and joints. It is always better to talk, in detail, to an experienced pet veterinarian to learn about the plausible leg problems while picking the dog for making a family member Some of the vets share that the symptoms may comprise: wobbly legs difficulty climbing stairs or walking reluctance to exercising.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Now it is time to focus more on gender and german shepherd growth rates. The official breed standard for the German Shepherd dog states that adult dogs can stand between 22 and 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulders and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. The official breed standard also specifies that adult male german shepherds often stand taller and weigh more than an adult female german shepherd. Typically, an adult male German Shepherd will stand two inches taller and weigh anywhere from 15 to 20 pounds more than an adult female german shepherd. This is exactly why a bigger German Shepherd male dog is likely to continue growing for a longer period because the skeleton can only grow so fast. It uses an average German Shepherd pup that weighs 64 pounds at one year of age. One month old A one-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 9. Two months old A two-month-old GSD puppy may weigh up to .Three months old A three-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Four months old A four-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Five months old A five-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Six months old A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Seven months old A seven-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Eight months old An eight-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Nine months old A nine-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Ten months old A ten-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 72 pounds, representing about 94 percent of the growing left to do. Eleven months old An eleven-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to .Twelve months old A twelve-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 76 pounds, representing about percent of the growing left to do. Female German Shepherd For a female German Shepherd puppy, the weight range in adulthood typically varies between 50 pounds and 80 pounds. Puppies will be between 22 to 24 inches tall paw pads to shoulders on average. It uses an average female German Shepherd that weighs 64 pounds at one year of age. One month old A one-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 7 pounds, representing about 11 percent of the growing left to do. Two months old A two-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 16 pounds, representing about 26 percent of the growing left to do. Three months old A three-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 27 pounds, representing about 41 percent of the growing left to do. Four months old A four-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 36 pounds, representing about 55 percent of the growing left to do. Five months old A five-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 44 pounds, representing about 66 percent of the growing left to do. Six months old A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 50 pounds, representing about 75 percent of the growing left to do. Seven months old A seven-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 54 pounds, representing about 82 percent of the growing left to do. Eight months old An eight-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 58 pounds, representing about 87 percent of the growing left to do. Nine months old A nine-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 60 pounds, representing about 91 percent of the growing left to do. Ten months old A ten-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 61 pounds, representing about 94 percent of the growing left to do. Eleven months old An eleven-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 63 pounds, representing about 97 percent of the growing left to do. Twelve months old A twelve-month-old German Shepherd puppy may weigh up to 64 pounds, representing about percent of the growing left to do. The bone marrow will become inflamed and sore, sometimes to a level where it becomes excruciating to your dog. In most cases, panosteitis will last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or even longer and then dissipate. However, it may recur several times while your GSD puppy is still growing. While panosteitis lasts, your puppy may limp, whine, whimper, and exhibit lameness that seems to move from one leg to another in no apparent pattern. Panosteitis is thought to have genetic heritable origins and is unfortunately quite common in the German Shepherd breed. Treating panosteitis usually involves giving a German shepherd puppy pain medications. Unfortunately, many pain medications have uncomfortable side effects, including stomach upset, and gastrointestinal distress. But the fact is that the German Shepherd dog breed was not created to be a big, bulky dog. These dogs were created to be livestock herding working dogs. To do this, they need to be light on their feet, athletic, and rangy so they can move and navigate quickly. While some GSDs are naturally bigger than others, and males tend to be taller and heavier than females, this is not always the case. Here is more information regarding German Shepherd puppy development. Start with the Dog Breed Standard According to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America , the German Shepherd as a breed typically stands between 22 and 24 inches tall paw pads to shoulder tops for female adult dogs and 24 to 26 inches tall for male adult dogs. No weight range is given for the official dog breed standard. However, the standard does say the dog typically measures between 8. So these can give you some good starting measurements. The American Kennel Club AKC gives a 50 to 90 pounds weight range, with about 10 pounds differences between adult females and adult males. Find out from your breeder the exact height, weight, and length measurements for each parent dog. You can also ask the breeder about how long it took each parent dog to complete its growth. The greatest influence will come from learning as much as possible about which parent dog your puppy seems to most favor in looks. Your breeder will be in the best position to weigh in on this question, both from the point of view of the parent dogs and the lineage as a whole. You can also ask where your GSD puppy falls on the size spectrum within their particular litter. While a smaller puppy may end up being a bigger adult dog, this is more the exception than the norm. For example, if you know that your puppy was the middleweight in the litter, you can expect your adult GSD to maintain that position as all the puppies grow up. The growth process is not unlike what happens as children grow up! In other words, for your puppy to grow bigger, its bones first have to grow bigger. This requires a partnership between bone and cartilage. This partnership takes place within centers called growth plates. The growth plates are located at the ends of the long skeletal bones. Inside each growth plate is an area that is responsible for generating new bone tissue. This is the most important fact to cement into your memory. As long as the growth plates are still producing new bone tissue, they are relatively soft. This is because the tissue the growth plates are producing is also soft and flexible. Only once your German Shepherd puppy has finally grown up as much as they will do will these growth plates and their tissues harden fully. You need to do two important things to protect and support your GSD puppy to reach their full adult height, weight, and size safely and healthily. In most cases, you will be guided to feed a puppy food formulated specifically for large breed puppies that will grow up more slowly over a longer period. Guard against over-exertion in play, exercise, and athletics As the American Kennel Club AKC points out, large breed puppies are known to be more vulnerable to exercise-induced injury while they are still growing. This is because the growth process takes longer, and their skeletal systems support a great deal of weight. While no official study exists to definitively say when it is safe to let your GSD make use of their considerable natural athletic ability, your veterinarian can help you assess when and how to add in additional activity as your puppy grows up. Here, you might be wondering how you will deal with so much rambunctious puppy when you have exercise restrictions! But it is important to remember that mental activity is just as stimulating and tiring to smart dogs like the German Shepherd! GSDs are intensely people-oriented and eager to please and will readily take to training sessions and obedience school. German Shepherd puppies can still exercise by trying interspersing walks or short runs with the mental stimulation of training sessions to keep your pup from over-exerting. As the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals RSCPA explains, over-exercising a growing puppy can lead to several musculoskeletal problems even as they are still growing and in adulthood. In general, you want to aim for a moderate daily activity that combines training, free play, interactive play with you, and walks of one mile or less. Tug of war, frisbee, tethered bike rides or runs, and any activity that forces your dog to keep up with you should be avoided at all costs. These issues include the following: Hip dysplasia.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All of them are well-known in the state as ethical breeders whose top priority is producing healthy and happy puppies for loving families. Of course, you might get lucky and stumble upon a great, ethical breeder on your first try. However, we do recommend you take this process seriously and have done extensive research before choosing a breeder. In fact, some Labradoodle breeders in this guide offer a three-year health guarantee! Health warranties should cover any serious genetic conditions that the parents have been tested for. Additionally, you might want to check if a breeder is recommended by Gooddog. In addition to that, you can always ask around your friends and family members about their own experiences with specific Labradoodle breeders in the area. For more in-depth information on this topic, we recommend you check out our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. All of the pups come from health screened backgrounds and their parents have been cleared for genetic problems. Although their goal is to breed hypoallergenic and low-shedding Doods, they occasionally have scruffy pups who might shed some hair. What Makes This Breeder Unique? As the Doodle Ranch is a family breeder, all of their dogs are full-fledged members of the family. Many will say I want a puppy on a certain date. Mother Nature has blessed us with two wonderful litters. Please ask for a price on the merle puppies. We always welcome visitors! About Us Experienced Breeders We have been breeding dogs for 33 years and breeding labradoodles for 19 years. We also breed occasional litter of Moyen poodles. I Carol have a degree as licensed veterinary technician which allows me to bring my medical knowledge into the breeding program. All puppies leaving our home will have excellent temperaments! We have worked with a lot of families over the years and we pride ourselves in being very family friendly. Our goal is to place the perfect 4-legged family member into your home. Don't buy from a breeder that won't show you their dogs or makes excuses why you can't visit. We welcome your visit! Our Family We are a family run business. Carol and Tom established Acme Creek Kennels in .Amber and Ryan run the boarding and daycare. Carol and Amber raise the labradoodles. Our guarantee We guarantee our labradoodle puppies 2 years. We are also available throughout your dogs life for any questions that may arise. In order to provide the healthiest puppy for your family we do hip, eye and DNA testing. Our labradoodles have fantastic temperaments, We have 30 years experience as a veterinary technician and breeder. We are experienced Labradoodle breeders with 6 years of working with Australian Labradoodles. Our puppies are non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them not just a family pet but a perfect addition to any family. Quality - At Michigan Labradoodles, we have the best team! Our dogs , are members of our family—they are all descendants of experienced selective family- based Labradoodle breeders in the business. Our business is centered around our family, including our dogs—you can always expect an exceptional experience with our family based company. We are a recognized ALAA breeder, our goal is to breed our wonderful Australian Labradoodles to provide you with an excellent addition to your family. Service - Honesty is a foundation of our family that stretches far beyond our business. We understand that it takes a lot of trust to buy a puppy online. At Michigan Labradoodles, we are committed to making this a fun and memorable experience for you and your family. When you buy a labradoodle from us you can expect constant communication through the puppy adoption process. While our labradoodle puppies are born in Michigan, we provide delivery service anywhere in the US. We provide updates through our Facebook and Instagram page and email variety of forms, including detailed descriptions, pictures, and videos. Why Authentic Australian Labradoodles? Consistent - Our dogs and their puppies are consistent, they are descendants of a multigenerational breed. The pedigree is true back eight plus generations, breeding Authentic Australian Labradoodles with the same great qualities of their breed. This gives us the ability to closely predict the size, shape and color of your puppy. On top of that we breed for excellence and closely adhere to the ALAA standard. They were originally bread as service dogs and therapy companions with an allergy friendly coat dating back to the 's. Coat - Our Australian Labradoodles all possess a soft fleece coat that has been developed over generations - a quality that you will only get with experienced dog breeders. It provides the allergy friendly coat qualities of the poodle, without sacrificing the amazing soft to the touch feel you will love. Temperament - Originally the Authentic Australian Labradoodle was bred as the ideal therapy dog. They interact well with adults and their playful personality makes them a fun addition to families with children. They are a great mix of playfulness and cuddly. The organization promotes responsible dog companionship for labradoodles for sale in Michigan and the United States by cataloging helpful information about the breeds making it easier to buy a dog online by offering networking services to breeders and owners. The organization protects our breed from inhumane puppy mills. This status recognizes our commitment as a breeder to maintaining a high health standard for our dogs, as well as our recurring investment in health testing of our breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that our litters have come from the healthiest parents possible along, with a strong level of health guarantees that can be maintained. Thank you for your interest in this wonderful breed here at South Mitten Australian Labradoodles! Our labradoodles are allergy-friendly, meet rigorous health standards and have wonderful temperaments, making them the perfect addition to families of all shapes and sizes. Located in southern Michigan, our dogs are raised in our home as cherished and spoiled members of our family! Our puppies are given the utmost care and researched-based attention and stimulation right from the start. This ensures you are not just getting a puppy of impeccable bloodlines, but one that has an optimal start and a superior advantage. We strive to produce healthy well-socialized puppies from multi-generational lines with amazing temperaments. South Mitten Labradoodles follow the strict health guidelines and strong ethics of the Australian Labradoodle Club we belong to. We specialize in the true Australian Labradoodle with wonderful coats and temperaments with bloodlines originating from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor in Australia. This is a different dog and usually a different temperament than the Australian Labradoodles. True Australian Labradoodles average generations of labradoodles back in their pedigree that all originate from either Rutland Manor, Tegan Park, or Sunset Hills in Australia. We strive for nothing less than excellence in breeding and raising our precious puppies. We love and are devoted to this very special breed. Why do we believe that certified Australian Labradoodles are the ultimate breed? You are getting the best of the best! Virtually Non-Shedding Greatest ambition is to be with "their people" Incredibly intelligent and easy to train Loyal Low to no odor even when wet Comical and endearing. They were bred to get a less allergic and less aggressive breed. It was mostly achieved, but some exceptions exist. These curly balls of fur have become quite popular today for having a warm temperament and adaptability. Properly bred Labradoodles prove to be the best company, if not the best guard dogs. A lot of households with children prefer having a Labradoodle in the USA. Features Labradoodles are an easy-to-go breed with a life span of years. They adapt quickly but can be hyper-energetic. They are available in various sizes and colors with good characteristics. One should always opt for a trusted and ethical breeder to get the healthiest dog. Labradoodles have these basic features. Appearance A standard Labradoodle is inches tall, while the medium one is inches tall, and the miniature Labradoodle is inches tall. They generally have long, wavy hair, making them look like little teddy bears. They can be found in a combination of chocolate, red, gold, black, and cream colors. Weight The weight varies for each dog, but there is a broad range for each size of Labradoodle available. The standard Labradoodle weighs anywhere between pounds, the medium Labradoodle weighs between pounds, and the Miniature Labradoodle weighs between pounds. Personality Labradoodles are one of the friendliest breeds you can ever find. They are loyal and have a warm temperament. Full of energy, these bundles of joy like surrounding people all the time. They adapt to the living conditions well and can be left alone for some time. Labradoodles are an intelligent and calm breed and with proper training. Training and grooming Labradoodles of all types are easy to train and groom. They require regular grooming and exercise. They are both hot and cold weather tolerant and trained for better tolerance. Based on the proportion of characteristics of both the breeds required, the various types of Labradoodles bred are: It is the original Labradoodle. In addition to being a Labradoodle, it has another characteristic of the pure breed. F2 Labradoodle F2 is the second-generation Labradoodle. A cross between two F1 Labradoodles gives F2 Labradoodle. F2B Labradoodle It is almost .F3 Labradoodle Also called the multi-gen Labradoodle, it is the third or more generation Labradoodle. Why Labradoodle? Labradoodles are not only intelligent and active. If you want more reasons to get yourself Labradoodle puppies in Michigan, here are other features that make them a good choice. Less shedding: The deliberate mix with a Poodle makes a Labradoodle shed lower than the standard breeds. The choice for novices: Labradoodles are easy to train and quickly adapt to their surroundings, making them a good choice for new learners. Although it is not a difficult procedure, their energy levels might make it difficult sometimes. Some tips below might help take care of a Labradoodle. Exercise Labradoodles require minutes of exercise every day. Their wanderlust makes them require regular walks. If in a small apartment, it is necessary to take them outside in parks or gardens to keep them happy and healthy. Socialization Early socialization is a pompous activity with a Labradoodle. It means keeping them around lots of people. This helps them become friendlier, and they pick up recognizable traits. Grooming Labradoodles require grooming, like brushing, combing, and bathing regularly. They have a great liking to water, so it is easy to groom them. Generally, getting professional grooming kits is a good option. Family Environment It becomes imperative to keep the Labradoodle inside with the family. They are sensitive creatures and cannot sleep outside. Any comfy place near the bed or in the living room works well with the breed. Final Words With its warm temperament, loyal and adaptable nature, Labradoodle is a perfect fit for company, even on tours and travels. Michigan provides numerous options to choose from, but as a matter of concern, most of the dogs may not have a healthy lifestyle in which they are raised. To find good Labradoodle puppies in Michigan for your family, you must trust only credible breeders. You should also be aware while looking out for dogs from mills as they may not be healthy. The article familiarizes readers with the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Michigan MI. So, ensure you choose from the best breeders to raise a healthy and active Labradoodle that fits into your family fully! These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Denton Michigan and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Initially, they grow rapidly. At this point in their development, puppies are unable to see, hear, or chew on anything. Since they are still developing rapidly, they will spend all of their time nursing from their mother and sleeping. There will be more playing and discovering. Since they will have begun to learn to regulate their bladder, they will soon be able to get up from bed whenever they need to urinate or defecate. Housebreaking may begin as early as 8 weeks, and by 9 weeks, they are ready to start learning basic instructions. This is because your puppy is shedding teeth. To avoid your puppy from developing destructive habits, you should always provide safe, chewable toys within easy reach. Between the ages of 4 and 6, you should keep up with your training. A well-trained puppy will respond to your voice and other basic instructions. The puppy will learn most of its behaviors from you. When they are 6 months old, pugs typically weigh approximately 10 pounds. By 10 months, a Pug should weigh about 17 pounds, giving or taking a few ounces since some dogs are larger or smaller than average. You may expect your dog to be done teething now. Adult The eventual weight of your adult pug will be heavily influenced by his or her gender, the level of activity he is exposed to, and the quality of food he is fed. The average adult pug weighs between 16 and 20 pounds. How Big Do Pugs Get? Pugs achieve their full adult size during the ninth month, however they may continue to gain weight until the first year. In contrast to the rest of their body or limbs, an abnormally large head and paws indicates that the dog is still developing. You can now take your dog to a lab and get a DNA test to learn its family tree. Pug Growth Chart Adult male pugs usually reach a height of 10 to 12 inches at the withers and a weight of 16 to 20 pounds. Female pugs are often smaller than their male counterparts, with an approximate height of 10 inches and bodyweight of 14 to 16 lbs. One further thing to keep in mind is that pugs, like many other little dog breeds, tend to be on the smaller side. When your Pug is standing tall, measure from the maximum height between its shoulders withers. Measure from the floor up to the withers. Pugs often range in size from 10—14 inches in height. The surgical process known as spaying is performed on female dogs, during which their eggs and womb are removed. Neutering, on the other hand, is performed on male dogs, during which their testicles are removed. Your Pug should be spayed or neutered around he age of 4 — 7 months, depending on which option you choose. There are a number of advantages to spaying your Pug, including the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, a lower chance of developing cancers of the uterus, ovaries, and breasts, and improved overall health. On the other side, sterilization eliminates the possibility of offspring being produced and lowers the danger of prostate illness and testicular cancer. Additionally, it lessens the occurrence of aggressive behaviors and problems associated with marking territory. French Bulldog vs Pug Size Male French bulldogs normally weigh around 16 — 28 pounds and reach 11 to 12 inches in height at the shoulder, making them bigger than pugs. Female Frenchies often weigh 16 to 24 lbs and stand between ten and eleven inches tall. Pugs are indeed a smaller breed, with males standing 10 to 12 inches height at the withers and weighing 16 to 20 pounds. Female pugs are somewhat smaller, standing 10 inches tall and weighing 14 — 16 pounds on average. It is crucial to note, however, that size varies greatly inside every breed and may be impacted by a range of variables including food, activity, and heredity. Pugs, like people, may benefit from regular exercise yet still gain weight. Your dog will naturally be on the tinier side if he was the runt of litter. Not all pugs will be affected by these diseases. There is a noticeable size difference between male and female pugs, with the latter often being the smaller of the two sexes. Nutrition The food you provide your dog has a major impact on how much it weighs. Dogs have dietary preferences, and not all dog diets are created equal. In addition, your dog should be fed more often, but with careful attention to both the quality and amount of food it receives. All dog food should start with meat as the primary component. How well and how healthy your pug grows depends on the food he eats. Pugs may not be the most active of dogs, but they still need enough playtime and exercise to be in excellent shape. The more active they are, the less probable it is that they will gain weight. To maintain normal growth and development, pug puppies require the optimum quantity of food. Pug pups should eat high-quality small-breed puppy chow. Small breeds require greater protein and calorie diets to sustain their quick development. Growing pug puppies should have a waist and ribs that can be touched but not seen. Feeding your skinny dog more may help. However, overweight puppies may require less food. Divide the appropriate daily food into smaller portions and give your puppy several times a day. This prevents bloating and obesity in petite breeds like pugs. To keep your pug healthy, weigh them regularly every month. Underweight or overweight pugs may have health issues. Body condition is a simple method to tell whether your pug is overweight or underweight. Healthy pugs have a waist and ribs that can be touched but not seen. Use a bodily condition score sheet to assess your pug. These charts show a healthy pug and might help you determine whether yours is overweight or underweight. You may also ask your vet if your pug is a healthy weight. They may assess your condition and advise on weight management. You may use the pug growth chart as a reference to help you determine whether or not your pug is on the appropriate development curve, but you should keep in mind that the chart is just a recommendation. Talk to the doctor about any concerns you have about your pug. You can assist your pug in achieving a healthy weight if it is either overweight or underweight. If your pug seems to be underweight, you should either give them extra food or switch to a diet that has more calories. Reduce the amount of food your pug is eating and try to persuade them to do more physical exercise. Always seek the advice of your trusted veterinarian in order to choose the best course of therapy for your pug. Every six months is the recommended interval between weighing your Pug, according to the conventional guideline. This applies to both puppies and mature dogs. If your Pug suffers from any medical concerns, you need to weigh them more frequently because some diseases might cause fluctuations in weight. In order to weigh your Pug while you are at home, you will need a bathroom scale. First, while you are holding your Pug, walk on the scale, and make a note of the number. The second step is to do a self-weigh without carrying your Pug. In the end, you may determine the difference by subtracting the first weight from the second weight. This is how much weight your Pug has. Pug Genetics And Common Health Problems Pugs are not immune to the possibility of developing hereditary diseases; this is true of all dog breeds. A few examples are as follows: Dry eye, corneal ulcers, and proptosis in which the eyeball is positioned too far forward in the socket are all potential complications for their eyes. Medications exist to alleviate the discomfort caused by ulcers and dry eye. Your dog has to visit the doctor ASAP since proptosis may lead to blindness. Only pugs are susceptible to encephalitis, a fatal brain illness. Circling, seizures, and even blindness are all symptoms. Legg-Perthes disease is a joint disorder characterized by a decrease in femoral blood flow and subsequent disintegration of the femur. This may sometimes be helped by surgery. This disease, known as hemi-vertebrae, is more common in pugs with short noses. Final Words Because pugs are a small breed of dog, it is probable that they would have a longer lifespan than you would find with a bigger breed of dog. This is something that you might see with larger breeds. The average lifespan of a pug is 13 years, but it may vary anywhere from 13 to 15 years depending on how healthy the dog is and whether or not he has any health concerns that might shorten his life. Overall, pugs have the potential to live a happy and long life provided that their weight is managed appropriately. When they are between Between one and seven yeas old, they are regarded as being at the height of their potential; beyond that, they are categorized as senior dogs. 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 most frequently come in black and fawn, but there are other Pug colors , as well. Pugs, who were originally designed to be lap dogs, enjoy being around people. These puppies are playful, affectionate dogs who will get along with even inexperienced pet parents, despite having a stubborn side, especially when it comes to housetraining. Pugs were first domesticated in China during the Han era B. According to some historians, they are descended from the Tibetan Mastiffs. The Chinese Emperors treasured them, and they lived in lavish homes, occasionally even with troops on duty to protect them. Pugs were brought to the United States just after the Civil War, and the American Kennel Club officially recognized them as a breed in .Pugs were initially quite well-liked, but by the turn of the century, sentiment had changed. But even in those small bodies, a lot of stuff can be happening. Pugs go through a lot of physical and mental changes during the first year of their life. Their development is pretty rapid and they can sometimes reach full adult size at just nine months of age. But what exactly happens in those months? And how do Pug puppies behave in certain periods? Puppies will be toothless, blind, and deaf at this age, but they will have a sense of taste and touch. Thanks to a lifestyle consisting of exclusively nursing and napping, they will develop and grow swiftly. Your pug puppies should perk up and start to interact more by the time they are three weeks old. They should be able to get out of bed and go potty on their own, since they will start to have some control over their bladder. By the time they are eight weeks old, they can start some proper house training , and by nine weeks, they can start learning basic commands. When it comes to their size, they should already weigh around six pounds by this point. This indicates that your puppy will be losing teeth as well. A 6-month-old pug will closely resemble a full-grown adult in its physique, but the development process is not yet quite over. It should already weigh close to 18 pounds, but keep in mind that some dogs are slightly bigger or smaller than others. By now, your puppy should have finished teething. To help maintain your puppy as healthy as possible, you must keep him active and stimulated. From Nine Months To One Year Most Pugs are fully physically formed and close to their full adult weight by the time they are nine months old. However, some of them can still continue to add a little bit of weight past this mark. Offer plenty of opportunity for exercise, because Pugs like being active, and due to their unique physical build, they need to stay as slim as possible. The eventual weight of an adult pug will be strongly influenced by his gender, the quantity of exercise it gets, and the kind of food it consumes. Nevertheless, the weight of an adult pug can range from 14 to over 18 pounds. Being little dogs, even a few pounds make a difference. There is a basic average range associated with the breed, but not every Pug will end up being the same height and weight. Furthermore, the weight chart that we provided is mostly referential for standard-size Pugs and not taking into account the special case of teacup Pugs. This is due to the fact that it is hard to anticipate the growth of the puppies to within an inch or pound because there are so many diverse elements that in the end determine their development. In other instances, it may even enable you to identify early signs of anomalies or health problems. We can roughly divide those factors into two distinct categories: internal and external. Internal Factors Internal factors that impact the growth of a Pug are those that are embedded within the dog as soon as, or even before, it is born. This is what nature has given the pup, and there is nothing you can do to change or influence it. However, knowing these details and the effect they have on puppy development can help you prepare and anticipate certain things. The two biggest internal elements that shape the growth of a Pug are its genetic makeup and its gender. Genetics The height and tendency to gain weight of your pug can be influenced by genetics. Pugs could exercise frequently, just like people, yet still, gain weight. Your dog will naturally be smaller if he is the runt of the litter. Male pugs stand between ten and thirteen inches tall and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, with their average height being twelve inches, and the average weight between 13 and 16 pounds. As you might have guessed, the two biggest external factors in determining the growth of a Pug are nutrition and exercise. There are a lot of different dog foods out there, and some of them contain fillers or additives that are actually unhealthy for Pugs to consume. Your dog has to be fed multiple times per day, but be mindful of the type and the amount of food. Pugs may not be the most active dogs, but they still need enough walks, play and exercise to stay healthy. They are probably lighter as they move more. Their general health will improve, which is crucial for growing puppies. In order to be healthy, your puppy also has to receive vaccinations and be fed consistently. Pug Health Problems Numerous health problems can affect pugs, and a lot of them are the result of their brachycephalic conformations. They share those issues with some other breeds who have a similar head and body shape, for example, the Bulldogs. Fortunately, your veterinarian can help you manage many of their potential health issues. Some of them can even be detected early on by using DNA tests. But since this is an article about Pug growth, we want to focus on health issues that are related to weight, in particular. Overweight Pugs Pugs have a tendency to put on excess weight. They are opportunistic eaters who munch on everything that comes their way and this increases their propensity for obesity. Pugs could also get overweight if their diet is not controlled, if the food is of low quality, or if they are not active enough. If your Pug is healthy, you can help it lose weight by taking the following actions: — Cut back on the serving sizes. The most frequent causes of being underweight in Pugs are various parasites, diabetes and other medical conditions , teeth problems, as well as a poor diet. There are a few at-home remedies you might try after your veterinarian has ruled out an underlying illness. You should start by switching to high-quality dog food. Pugs can be picky eaters, but high-quality dog food from a premium brand should work. After that, you have to make sure to give them smaller meals, but more frequently. Before feeding your pug again, give it some time to digest the last meal. To speed up the process, you might add some nutritious weight-gain snacks to these meals. Finally, make sure to give your pug a thorough workout. Although it may seem contradictory, exercise will aid in the development of muscles and boost hunger. Just be careful not to overwork it because that would be counterproductive. Its weight is perhaps the most important one, but there are others, as well. For example, you might want to know its neck and chest circumference in order to buy the best possible harness. In the following section, we will explain how to perform some of the most common measurements on your Pug. After that, you should weigh it once every six months. You should weigh your Pug more frequently if they have any medical issues because some illnesses can result in weight shifts. To weigh your Pug at home, you will need a bathroom scale. If your dog is calm and disciplined enough, you can just put it on the scale and note the reading. Simply step on the scale yourself, while carrying your Pug, then note the reading. Next, weigh yourself without the Pug by your side. Just keep in mind to measure a dog from the paws to the withers, not to the head. The procedure is as follows: 1. Position your Pug directly against a wall or doorframe. Locate the withers of your Pug. Calculate how far the pencil mark is from the floor. Pugs typically have necks that range in size from 12 to 16 inches on average. Two scales — either 1 to 5 or 1 to 9 — can be used to get the BCS. This implies that while your Pug has a thin layer of fat covering its entire body, its ribs can easily be felt with the fingertips and its waistline and stomach tuck are both visible to the eye. You need to be able to predict their height and weight correctly so that you are able to account for this. Not to mention all the other factors that need your focus, including your diet, degree of exercise, training, etc. Knowing how big and heavy your Pug should be at a certain age will help you plan its diet, living space, as well as your budget. Pug Growth FAQ This Pug growth chart will undoubtedly be a helpful resource for you if you already own a Pug or are simply considering getting one. Furthermore, some of the other details we have supplied will give you a fair indication of what to anticipate from a Pug puppy at different stages of development. So, we made the decision to group them all together in a straightforward, understandable, and user-friendly FAQ area. When Do Pugs Stop Growing? Pugs grow to their full size more quickly than medium or large-sized dogs, like many small dog breeds. Around nine months of age, pugs reach their adult size, though they may continue to gain a tiny bit of muscle until they are a year old. How Big Do Pugs Get? Pugs, although having a sturdy exteriors, belong to the toy category of dogs. They weigh between 14 and 18 pounds, and their height varies from 10 to 13 inches. They are stocky, square dogs with thick limbs. Owing to their mastiff ancestry, pugs are the most robust of the toy breed. There are several myths about how neutering or spaying a dog before it reaches adolescence may cause them to grow less quickly. The truth is that early spaying and neutering of Pugs has both many advantages and many risks. According to some research, castrating and spaying dogs can extend their lives and perhaps prevent later-life issues. Male castration lowers the risk of testicular and prostate cancer. Veterinarians normally advise having your Pug spayed or neutered between the ages of four and nine months, though advice varies. Although there is no percent surefire solution, it is frequently advised that you have your male Pug neutered after he has reached adolescence. This is believed to offer long-term health advantages in addition to preventing behavioral traits like aggressiveness and marking. There is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for when to spay female Pugs. Some experts advise spaying before the first heat cycle as early as five months , but others contend that doing so may raise the risk of mammary tumors. Some Pugs exceed that, in fact, there have been Pugs that lived to be 20 years old. However, the vast majority will be around the lower end of that expectancy. Pugs are toy dogs who are tiny even when they are fully adult, so you can probably imagine how minuscule they are when they first arrive in the world. Typically, a newborn Pug will weigh between 0. Final Thoughts The Pug growth chart is a really helpful tool to have if you own one of these little dogs. You can decide what accessories, food, and care are needed for the dog by knowing its size. Your chances of successfully resolving health issues will increase if you find them early on. Punk and Star Photo courtesy of The Kuney's If you have had your Pug for a while, it may be hard to believe that your 12 year old dog is the equivalent age of 59 human years; however this is a guideline that refers to the breakdown of the body's ability to fend off disease, level of exercise a dog is able to handle and so forth. An owner can have a Pug in this teens that still loves to run around the park! Let's look at the milestones that a Pug will enter from birth until the senior years. Birth to 8 Weeks - Many owners do not see this stage, however newborn Pug puppies double and triple their weight very quickly. Newborns will sleep up to 22 hours per day. Those at the 8 week mark will sleep up to .Growth is going to be rapid. It will last several months. Females will have their first heat if not spayed. Males will have viable sperm. Though technically a female can become pregnant at this young age, breeding is recommended at the age of 1 year old or older. Males should be at least 9 months old. Some Pug puppies will stop growing by the age of 9 months. For others, just a few pounds will be gained from now until the 12 month mark. By the time, full height is usually reached. The adult Pug will fill out in width, most noticeable in the chest area. The dog is muscular and will not grow any larger. Extra weight gain at this point may be deemed unhealthy. Pugs that gain a significant amount of weight after the age of 18 months should be checked out by the veterinarian. The Pug dog is muscular and in his or her prime. Most vets will classify a dog as a senior by age 7 or 8. Even if this is not officially done, 9 years would be the limit that one could hold off on dubbing the Pug a senior. Pug Weight and Growth Chart This chart will give you a guideline for what to expect in how fast your Pug grows and how quickly he will gain weight. An 8 week old Pug puppy will weight between 2 and 4 pounds. Though the AKC breed standard gives us a final full size of pounds 5. It's a funny thing because the changes happen gradually and owners usually do not notice.And then, one day it reaches a certain point and the owner will say, "When did my dog get old!? Your dog may show a bit of difficulty when rising from a down position. He or she may walk slower up a staircase. A quality canine mattress is recommended for any age, however during the senior years an orthopedic canine bed is more important than ever. Expect an older Pug dog to take more naps and retreat more often due to a lower tolerance for noise levels. When your dog reaches the age of 8 or 9, it will be time to give a bit more attention to certain grooming techniques. Skin looses its elasticity and cleaning wrinkles will be more important than ever. An older Pug will be more susceptible to infections. Take extra time to clean the folds and keep them dry. Your Pug's veterinarian should be performing more thorough tests, especially for sugar levels. Eye exams are very important, as well. Just as with humans, an older Pug may be more susceptible to developing diabetes, arthritis , have problems with joints and their bones may be more brittle. The pounds that they have been carrying around and the body structure that they have short legs especially have been taking its toll. At this age, excess weight be a problem. It is recommended to make a gradual change in the diet, to ensure that meals have a higher count of nutrients specifically for aging pets. If you previously gave no-so-healthy snacks, make an effort to change over to a solid, healthy meal and snack plan. It will be time to make a change in regard to a vitamin and mineral supplement, switching to a senior formula. Additional supplements can be helpful depending on a Pug's specific needs. Most often, this breed does best with supplements to aid in joint health. Omega 3 can help to keep the skin and coat healthy and combat drying issues. The intensity of exercise should be scaled back a bit for seniors ; though daily duration of activity should remain as normal if the older Pug can handle it. It is still important go for walks so that a dog's heart stays healthy; movement is very necessary. However, once your Pug dog is a senior, you do not want to overdo activities as an older heart will not be able to handle what a younger heart was able to. It is during this time that you want to make the household as quite and peaceful as possible. Unless you absolutely must, do not move your furniture or make any changes that could cause stress or confusion. Creatures of habit, dogs know where things are and it can be disturbing if the environment is changed. The ability to hold elimination may weaken as bladder and bowel muscle loose some strength. At this time, you may want to start using doggie diapers. As odd as they may look, this will help your Pug and your home stay sanitary. If your senior does have accidents, never scold or punish. This is a normal process of aging. A loving owner, will of course, want to spend every moment that is left by showing compassion and care. All rights reserved. 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German Shepherds can have three different varieties of coat: double coat, plush coat, and long haired coat. The breed standard is the double coat, which consists of dense, straight, short hair that lies close to the body. The long haired coat is also quite common among German Shepherds that are family pets. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. The most common colouring for a German Shepherd is black and tan; however, the breed can also appear in all black. Typically the coat is predominantly tan with black facial and saddle markings. In rare instances, German Shepherds can have white, blue, or reddish brown coats. These colours are not recognized by the breed standard, but do occur periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is actually considered a separate breed in some areas and is called the American White Shepherd. The German Shepherd is part of the working dog classification and has a strong proportioned build. Typically, the German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds 23 and 41 kg. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source It has a narrow and deep chest, and the front legs and shoulders are muscular and sloping. Its body is slightly longer than it is deep, measuring from the shoulders to the rump. Go to source German Shepherd puppies typically weigh pounds kg after the first month and will continue to grow steadily throughout their first year. By six months they will weigh approximately pounds kg. German Shepherds have very distinct pointed ears that are erect. They are long at the base and face forwards, making the shape of a triangle. As puppies, the tips of the ear may flop over slightly, but they will straighten as the dog ages. German Shepherds have a long and bushy tail that hangs down when the dog is resting. When a German Shepherd is alert or in motion, the curve of the tail is accentuated and the tail will be slightly raised. German Shepherds can be fairly aloof and reserved when first meeting new people. However, once the dog has formed a connection with their owner, they are extremely loyal. German Shepherds are usually friendly and loyal to their family, but can be protective if they feel threatened. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and they need lots of daily exercise. If a German Shepherd is left a lone for long periods of time it will likely become bored and destructive. For example, the dog may start barking, chewing things, or digging. Make sure that your German Shepherd receives at least 1 hour of exercise each day. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable. They like to have a job or task to do, and you can train a German Shepherd to do a variety of different jobs. For example, German Shepherds are often used as "working" dogs, helping with search and rescue, drug sniffing and security, as well as providing aide and assistance to the visibly impaired. This is fun and stimulating for the dog. This breed is known to herd the sheep, count them, and keep them safe. This sense of possession make them apt for guarding a family. A pet can guard when he knows what all belongs to him and what does not. This ability helps a German Shepherd to differentiate between an enemy and the family. Protection to this breed comes naturally and that's why they are known as police dogs, too. German Shepherds are fantastic with your own kids and can act strange with the strangers and other kids. If you see a dog that you think might be a German Shepherd and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. It is such a cute dog. I am considering getting one. Veterinarians will be familiar with the breed standard of most dog breeds. They will be able to easily examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as German Shepherds by the American Kennel Club. Make sure that you always use a breeder that is licensed by the American Kennel Club. This will also help to ensure that you are purchasing a purebred dog. There are a number of applications available that can help to identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, simply upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Do the same thing with each of the swabs. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Once sealed, mail the results to the lab for testing. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Digestive issues and a sensitive stomach Muscle and joint pain Hip or elbow dysplasia All of these problems can be concerning but try not to worry. Whatever the cause, never let it sit for too long without giving it attention and seeking help and advice from your veterinarian. Are you having trouble trying to communicate with your German Shepherd and read his body language? There have been countless attempts to bridge the communication gap between humanity and their dogs, but none have worked outside of tone and body language. Some people have even gone as far as training their GSD to listen to German commands! Check out this awesome short video from Zak George showing you how to communicate with your dog by using a quiet and sincere tone and lots of eye contact. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and can understand your intent if you express how you feel through physical motions, but they also hear the volume and tone of your voice. If you speak in an excited voice, they will be happy. For more info on the correct way to discipline your dog, check out this article, Disciplining a German Shepherd the Right Way. The best way to communicate with your German Shepherd is to use hand motions and copy what he tends to do. If you want to play with him, wave his favorite toy and increase the pitch of your voice. If you want him to back away from something, use a firm tone and point at or away from it. Females are much more submissive and will likely try to please you rather than go about their own activities. Always gesticulate to let him know what you mean. Finally, be persistent. Think about how hard it is for you to learn a new language. It can take weeks or months to form a proper sentence! The same rules apply when teaching your dog how to communicate with you and vice versa. They want to build on their bond with you, and they feel comfortable and relaxed in your presence. If you let your German Shepherd sleep with you , it might be a nuisance for him to lay on your head every night, but they do it for a few reasons. Here are three reasons why your German Shepherd lays on your head: He wants to be near you, and he knows that your head is where all of your expressions and vocal tones come from. Think about how they jump to your face when they want to lick you or play and how they look into your eyes when they want attention. If your head is warm, your German Shepherd is likely laying on it to keep himself comfortable. Our heads, hands, and feet are where the heat goes in and out of our bodies the most. He may be afraid of something. Your dog might not have an immediate fear of something around the house, but constant anxiety can make him lie on your head to calm down. My German Shepherd Willow laying down fast asleep German Shepherds, like all other dog breeds, can have lazy days. That being said, you might be a bit worried if they start to lie and hide away from you for more than a day. There are plenty of reasons that this could occur. When the weather starts to change and clouds roll in, we all get dreary and tired earlier. On the other hand, it could be a sign of depression. Remember, German Shepherds need lots of mental stimulation and play, not just a walk on the leash! Ask your vet if you notice signs of depression. He might be exhausted from playing all the time. If your GSD is a puppy, then you should expect him to lie down quite often. Tiredness is a common symptom with puppies of all dog breeds. In fact, sleeping is essential for healthy growth. Do your best to let them stay asleep as long as they can, as puppies can sleep up to 18 hours per day! Your German Shepherd might be looking for attention. Not all dogs have the courage to seek your approval continuously. An excellent way to notice if he is doing this is to watch his eyes. Try to walk toward him to see if their tail starts to wag. FAQs How can you tell if a German shepherd is happy? There are a few telltale signs that can help you determine if your German Shepherd is happy. A happy German Shepherd will have a relaxed body posture with their ears forward and their tail held low or slightly wagging. They may also be panting lightly or have a relaxed facial expression. How can you tell if a German shepherd is angry or aggressive? An angry or aggressive German shepherd will often have their ears pinned back, their tail held low, and may be crouching or standing in a tense posture. They may also be growling or snarling. Another sign is their eyes. An angry or aggressive German shepherd will often have a hard, intense stare. How can you tell if a German shepherd is afraid or anxious? There are several signs that can indicate if a German shepherd is afraid or anxious. These can include trembling, panting, excessive drooling, pacing, whining, and hiding. They may also display behaviors such as growling, snapping, or biting if they feel threatened or cornered. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are very expressive with their body language. Here are the main points of the article: German Shepherds bark and use their tails, eyes, mouths , ears, and body position to communicate. Get to know the German Shepherd stare and its possible meanings. Related Posts You May Like:. German Shepherds just kind of happened to me. Shepherds are a bit suspicious of strangers. Also, be prepared for your shepherd to pick someone to be her person in your family. In my family, Pyrrha unequivocally picked me. Beware the land sharks! It comes from somewhere deep in their herding heritage, I suppose, but these are very bitey puppies! For this reason, a GSD can be a trying breed with young children, who often become unwitting targets for playful biting. If not addressed, this shyness can transform into fear-based aggression. These dogs are busybodies, and they want to know where you are and what you are doing at ALL times — in the event that your actions could compromise the security of the house and the family. German Shepherds have a double coat, which equals twice as much fur all of your floor, your sofa, your clothes, etc. German Shepherds like to play rough Shepherds have a tendency to rough-house with both people and other dogs. Dog owners with other breeds have told me that it took them a while to realize that our shepherds were playing with their dogs — and not trying to kill them. In my experience, even in play, shepherds like to go for the throat and get into some heavy-duty wrestling. If it hurts your feelings that some people are automatically scared of your dog, a German Shepherd may not be right for you. If you have a German Shepherd, let this motivate you to make your dog a great breed ambassador and help change negative stereotypes. Other dogs were more barky, especially at strangers walking past our fence or at other dogs. Pyrrha is an uncharacteristically quiet German Shepherd; but our little Eden loves barking, barking just for the fun of it! Be aware of this issue, and be prepared to start training your dog when and how to be quiet. Consider a large number of health issues German shepherds are famous for their litany of health issues. On a range from more benign allergies to life-threatening osteosarcoma, hemangioma , shepherds seem to have them all. The breed even has predispositions to diseases that seem to occur exclusively within the purebred line e. Find a good vet preferably one with shepherd experience , and start taking measures to keep your shepherd trim and healthy. German Shepherds are large, active, athletic, and highly intelligent dogs. What this means is that if they get bored, you are going to seriously regret bringing this fuzzy monster into your house. Try obedience classes, agility, flyball, Schutzhund, herding , nose work, etc. Shepherds can excel at many canine sports and activities! German Shepherd Purebred Puppy If you want a purebred puppy, do your research about the difference between working-line and show-line German Shepherds. This can be a touchy subject for some, but in general, I feel that the bottom line is this: Working-line dogs are sounder and healthier because they are bred to do a job. Start researching how to determine what kind of GSD suits you and your family. Our foster German Shepherd Puppy Trina. The only downside of rescuing a purebred is that you have no health guarantees and no knowledge of their parents or often of their backgrounds. German Shepherd as a companion Pyrrha, for example, appears to be an American-line shepherd bred for companionship by a backyard breeder. Eden, on the other hand , is a German-line shepherd whose parents were imports titled in Schutzhund. They also showed dogs, so she has a more sloped topline than Pyrrha and slightly more exaggerated hocks. German shepherds still rank no. Consider it! Source: Wikimedia Commons. ALL puppies require hard work, devotion, and lots and lots of patience. But the joy they bring? Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Breed Info German Shepherds are mostly known for their intelligence, courage, and agility. Of course, different dogs will show their love in different ways. Dogs learn to lick and kiss during puppyhood. Therefore, they learn early on that licking on the mouth is a way to show they want to be cared for. As they grow older, kissing also becomes a communication act. Dogs mouths and noses are incredibly sensitive. Apart from following you around, German Shepherds like to feel physically close to you. Snuggling or cuddling is one of the best signs that your GSD is being affectionate because this is one way they treat you as part of their pack. German Shepherds will lay close to you when you are lying down and sit next to you when you are sitting. There are many reasons why your German Shepherd might habitually lean on you. Often, leaning is a way for dogs to communicate that they want something that only you could provide. The act of hugging dogs became controversial because a casual, observational study revealed that it gives dogs anxiety. Indeed, dogs may not like hugs because it practically immobilizes them and makes them feel unprotected. But, many dog parents — especially those with German Shepherds — would attest to the fact that their pups enjoy hugs. At the very least, dogs will tolerate hugs when they come from people they trust and love. When your GSD allows you to hug them, check for signs of distress, including folded-back ears and half-moon eyes. If you miss the signals, your GSD will soon demand rubs and scratches by pawing at your hand or even sitting on you while looking up at you to make sure they get your attention. German Shepherds are especially known for this. They may jump up at you, lick your face, and run around aimlessly at your presence. They may even whine from their inability to contain their excitement. When a German Shepherd selects you as a playmate, take it as a sign of affection. It means they love you and they want to do something fun with you. They might bring a toy to you or bring you their leash to go out for a walk. It is most common for them to raise one eyebrow, especially the left one. Additionally, the researchers found that the happier they are to see you, the higher the eyebrow is raised. Another study led by Japan-based researchers determined that when dogs and their humans engage in eye contact, it leads to a boost in oxytocin in both parties. Additionally, the more oxytocin a dog has, the more likely they are to gaze at you. So, when your GSD stares at you, it is because they love you, and your presence makes them feel good. Final Thoughts These ten ways German Shepherds typically show affection are also common to dogs of other breeds. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, naturally protective, and friendly. Without proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can develop nervous habits and overly-protective behaviors, just like most breeds. You might be wondering: What traits should I be watching for in my German Shepherd puppy? This intelligence, when left to its own devices, can lead to problematic behaviors. With early training and socialization though, you can help to prevent some of these common issues from coming up. A few of the most common include: Over-Protectiveness — German Shepherds are naturally protective. They want to protect the family unit. This protectiveness can become problematic if it manifests as aggression towards strangers or other animals. Examples include lunging at the mailman, or aggressive barking at passers-by. Introduce them to new people, new situations, and new noises. Socialization helps your puppy develop confidence and to learn what types of people and situations are non-threatening. Unfortunately, when they become over-territorial, this can be unsafe for visitors. Often, too, Shepherds can become territorial over food, growling, barking or lunging at anyone or other animals that come into their space. Exercise, obedience training, and rewarding calm behavior can all help to alleviate territorial aggression. Digging or Destructiveness — German Shepherds, require rigorous mental and physical exercise. They get bored very quickly, and often, this boredom manifests itself in destructive behavior. When bored, your pup might try to seek attention too, another common reason for the destructive behavior, like digging excessively or chewing up a shoe. Providing daily physical exercise, as well as training mental activity can help prevent boredom. Nipping — Many young dog breeds nip starting at around 6 to 9 months old. This is fairly typical behavior, but with Shepherds, it can be a bit scarier as get bigger. Separation Anxiety — German Shepherds, love you and want to always be by your side! Unfortunately, work and vacation make that impossible. You might also start with shorter trips when you first bring your pup home. Obedience training is imperative, and you should include your whole family in the training process. This will help your dog learn that he is not the alpha. Ultimately, the best way to weed out problematic behaviors is to start a training regime very early. German Shepherd puppies want to learn and put their intelligence to good use. Owners must be consistent in their training. Using the right cues, rewarding the right behaviors, and communicating with your dog properly is very important. The best way is to learn the right way to train a pup is to seek the help of a German Shepherd trainer. Taking a course teach you how to properly communicate with your dog and provide you with techniques to redirect negative behaviors. It starts with the breeder. Find a breeder that breeds for temperament and health. The best breeders take great care to produce animals that are calm, confident and loving. It requires careful pedigree planning and selecting the right sire dad and dam mom who show well-adjusted temperaments. Similarly, the best breeders will also be happy to provide a pedigree for the animal and are glad to answer the phone when you have any training concerns. For more information or if you may have questions, please contact us here.