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Australian Labradoodles are dogs that have a very interesting history. They were first bred in the s by a member of the Australian Guide Dog Association who set out to produce a hypo-allergenic guide dog, for a blind woman who was allergic to dogs. They can be considered to be six in one, as six different breeds were used to create what I believe is the ultimate dog. They are gentle, smart, loving, playful and obedient. An extra bonus is that they have an allergy friendly coat and do not shed! Tootsie is a cuddly and very loving dog who adores children. She is very intelligent and has proved easy to train. Her gentle temperament means her puppies will be perfect for first time dog owners! She is an exceptionally pretty dog with a gorgeous thick and curly coat. Tootsie comes from my breeder friend from Poland, a wonderful lover of dogs who is respected and well known all across Europe. The dad of both sets of puppies is Miles, our amazing stud who comes from Spain. He is a wonderfully calm and gentle boy! He loves to play with other dogs, whether they are smaller, bigger, older or younger! Miles adores his family and enjoys learning new tricks as he is extremely obedient. He is a very pretty boy with a luxurious, thick brown coat. The Pups are now ready to go home! A deposit is required to reserve your puppy, please do get in touch for more details : - All of our dogs are extensively health checked, having passed all their hip, elbow and annual eye tests. As well as having extensive genetic DNA tests. We have done extensive remodelling to suit the needs of the little puppies as well as the mums! The puppies have an outdoor area built and designed exclusively for them and their needs. They are also potty trained and know basic commands. I will always be reachable for any questions! Please feel free to contact me or any of my other extremely satisfied customers who have welcomed one of my puppies into their homes. These organisations contain the most amazing group of breeders who only pick the best dogs to breed. Please check out my website which has links to all the popular social media! Showing 1 - 17 of 17 resultsPage 1 - 17 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Description: 3 Females Mom Nina is a first-generation f1 miniature labradoodle, and the father Chico is a toy poodle. These pups.Description: 2 Females remaining Mom Nina is a first-generation f1 miniature labradoodle, and the father Chico is a toy poodle. Urgent Beautiful puppy for you! Are you ready to welcome a bundle of joy into your life? Look no further! We're thrilled to introduce our enchanting litter of 6 Labradoodle.Playful, sweet and bright little ones. Father Labradoodle is a playful, gentle giant and mother bull-mastiff is a very.Toronto Ready to go! I hope you're having a great day. Please take a moment to read through the information provided before asking.Mom is 23 inches at the shoulder and 50 pounds. Father is 24 inches and closer to 60 pounds. Born on Canada Day. Mama is a standard poodle and Dad is a golden Labrador , so the puppies are F1 Labradoole. Mama Ella is a very sweet girl and loves hugs. She always lays next to.We're thrilled to introduce our enchanting litter of .Description: 3 Females 8 weeks old ready for their forever homes. Mom Nina is a first-generation f1 miniature labradoodle, and the.Description: 4 Females 1 Male 7 weeks old ready for their forever homes. Mom Nina is a first-generation f1 miniature labradoodle, and.He is very playful and is 7 weeks old. Vaccinated and de-wormed fully. Pee pad trained. For more inquiries, please message for details or extra photos. Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location.

A blue merle Frenchie for sale will have the same broken pattern as any other variant of Merle Frenchie. The shaded color will in this case be blue. So it would be blue over white, as opposed to black, lilac, tan, brown, etc. Our most famous french bulldog stud, Mr. Elon is a Blue Merle with orange tan points, carrying testable chocolate and Fluffy, to also make Isabella, and fluffy Frenchies. His pups can be basically any color under the rainbow depending on the female he is paired with. Merle French Bulldog puppies for sale are available from at least 3 of our 6 total litters of the year! Blue merle French bulldogs are probably one of the most stunningly unique looking Frenchies. These little nuggets are quite easy to recognize, having a light base coat with darker patches of their inherent color usually blue, lilac, Isabella or black around their body. Did you know that Merle Frenchies often have light to ice blue eyes? So if you are looking for a pup with green or blue eyes, choose a Merle! Usually we have a few Merle pups in every litter! He is absolutely stunning, well mannered and one of the best structured studs carrying testable chocolate, cream, and fluffy currently working within the USA! Reserve an Elon pup today and experience one of his amazing offspring! Elon can make Blues, blues and tans, Isabella, Isabella and tan, New Shade isabella, Lilac, Lilac and tan, fluffies, creams, basically everything under the rainbow with AMAZING compact structure, big heads, with both intelligence and temperament to boot! On Average, a quality blue merle frenchie puppy will be on the more expensive side of average colors as a pet, and more if you are looking for full AKC registration for breeding your Frenchie. Lastly, with french bulldog genetics , there are a wide number of french bulldog colors available to consider! Also called french bulldog merle for sale these are some of the more exotic colored frenchies. Our puppies that are sired by Elon are short, thick, compact, great heads, and are just perfect. With a broken pattern, no two Merle Frenchie for sale look alike! These are the most unique of all colors and coat types. Some of them are even available as fluffy Frenchie as well. These are certainly also some of the most unique as no two patterns are alike! French Bulldog puppies for sale are readily available through internet websites, most using puppy mills and Amish puppy mills. Please be sure to steer clear of any puppy mills for any dog purchase of any french bulldog merle for sale. Merle French bulldogs for sale A quality blue merle French bulldog puppy is hard to come by and cost a pretty penny. You are looking for both structure and genetics. Other colors that are popular are the lilac merle french bulldog. Lilac Merle Frenchie puppies are also super cute, just a little bit lighter in color than the blues. Our Merle French bulldog for sale are some of our most popular of all of our pups. Most people who are knew to frenchies in general are unaware of the merle french bulldog puppies colors. Since our favorite stud to use is our own Elon Sacks, son of the famous Mr. Banks, we always have a few merle french bulldog puppies for sale , when we have litters. Blue merle frenchie pups are rare, stunning and always unique! With the broken patterns, no 2 will ever look the exact same. French Bulldog Merle for sale Other colors include the blue and tan frenchie , which is equally stunning with tan points and a solid blue french bulldog. We do not work with brindle or pied dogs so you have no risk of having a pied or brindle broken base color. Blue Frenchie puppies are super cute and were once rare and the most expensive but now are a bit more common. There were times when many people were on the waiting list for blue frenchie puppies for sale. We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. Merles are primarily known for their unique markings, a genetic expression of the M-locus or Merle gene which causes random skin pigmentation and lightens their eye color. They come in a variety of colors and range in spectrums of white, grey and black, white and beige, dark brown, beige and white and mixes of greys and Beiges together. The lilac genetics are expressed in the flash of red in there light blue colored eyes and a combination of chocolate and blue base color in their coats. Black, tan and fawn make up the black Merle and they often have brown eyes or blue eyes. On occasion, a combination of both will express itself where you will see one brown eye and one blue eye or a streak of one color inside the other. Genetically they come from the black Merle whose color base has been diluted to create a blue hue. Health of Merle Bulldogs French Bulldogs like all other breeds have certain health risks. For a golden retriever it is hip displasia. For a french bulldog it is a vulnerable back that encourages good practices for their owners to have stairs in place always at sites where dogs should not be jumping from such as a high bed or couch. It has been rumored that Merle french bulldogs are less healthy than standard french bulldogs. This would only be true if poor breeding practices are exercised. That would be breeding one Merle dog to another. Common problems include blindness and deafness as well as chronic allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will tell you about this. Additionally to encourage better health throughout a dogs life Feeding your dog a raw diet and giving them NuVet supplements are required by our standards. In general a raw diet has been proven to lengthen life span. Also not spaying and neutering before the age of six and preserving hormones will encourage longer life. Merle is not a color, its a pattern. There are some patterns recreated by breeders that have become popular and also despised upon by other breeders. Merle French bulldogs are such dogs whose pattern has become very popular due to its rarity and the diversity of patterns. The gene alters the color of the dogs and creates patterns over patterns and this creates mottled patches in the colors of the litter. Also, the gene modifies the color of the eyes nose and the paw pads. Blue eyes are common in these dogs and also an odd colored set of eyes can also be present. No Merle dog will be the same as the patterns will always differ along with the color. There are three types of genes that the dog can carry. Breeders take advantage of the availability of French Bulldogs in up to 20 twenty different colors. They then create a rare, low maintenance dog. Merle is one of the most expensive colors of French bulldogs out there and one of the rarest. Merle French bulldogs are not pure breeds. The color is a mix of other patterns mixed together by careful selection and breeding. If the breeder messes up on the color combination, the puppies can come out unhealthy and weak with birth defects. No French bulldog has the merle gene and therefore, Merle French bulldogs are not purebred. Many dog breeds have this gene, however, Chihuahuas are used to introduce this gene in the French bulldog family. Some breeders can also crossbreed the puppies to create a purebred Merle French bulldog. The pattern depends on the gene dilution as there are variations in the pattern of these dogs. Blue, black, lavender are some of the colors which are diluted with the merle gene. These dogs are very rare and are sought out for all over the world. One of the most distinctive features of a Blue Merle Frenchie is its vibrant blue eyes. They can also have heterochromia iridium, a condition that causes the eyes to be of different colors. Merle dogs have the genotype Mm, which means they have one allele for merle M and one allele for non-merle m. She is a sweet tiny girl with a big personality. Our French Bulldogs have had no health problems. I get questions about blue alopecia; we do not have that issue with our dogs or the puppies we have produced. We feed high-quality dog food to curb any skin or digestive problems. Yes, Frenchies can have gas and throw up; feeding high-quality food will get you close to eliminating these problems. We work on producing puppies with a little bit of a nose to help with breathing problems. On a cool morning, our girls will walk a mile or more with no issues. Never walk your French Bulldog in the heat, no matter the size of the nose. We do not produce extreme Frenchies with a flat nose and face or minis. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldogs require artificial insemination and c-sections to reproduce. They also have very slim hips, which makes it difficult for them to reproduce naturally. Breeding French Bulldogs is also a full-time job; they require constant attention and care. Are French Bulldogs good companions? French Bulldogs have the sweetest, funniest, and most unique personalities. Our Frenchies keep us entertained all the time. They are the biggest clowns! Frenchies will be as lazy or as active as you want them to be. But as with all dogs, they do need some activity. A short walk, playing ball, or just some mental activity helps keep your Frenchie fit inside and out! Deposits are not refundable if purchase is not completed due to no fault of Wild Blue French Bulldogs. We will meet in a public area. Outside the local area must be agreed upon prior. We do not ship puppies but can recommend a flight nanny. Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye. Blue French Bulldog The blue french bulldog is a beautifully colored and is a dark grey color. The blue coloration on a blue French bulldog comes from a recessive gene dilute gene. Sometimes, brindling can happen with this color — depending on the genetics and quality of the parents. These include patches on their face, ears and body. A blue French bulldog can also have brindling in their coat which is when blue and black hairs are intermingled. Blue frenchies are a beautiful color range to the French bulldog breed and has become more and more popular as more breeders are focusing on producing quality blue French bulldogs. Although you might think a solid black dog would be plain to look at, the black french bulldog is a showstopper. Fluffy Fluffy French Bulldogs are becoming more and more popular as breeders work hard to perfect fluffy Frenchies. They have more hair than other Frenchies. So what causes this adorable fluff? This gene causes an increased amount of long, coarse, thick undercoat and reduced very short dense topcoat. The fluffy parents will produce fluffy offspring always. The L — long hair gene is dominant so if you breed two fluffy dogs together only 1 parent needs to have the L — long hair gene for all pups to be fluffy! If you are breeding a fluffy with a normal-coat French Bulldog, 1 parent will need to be fluffy, and it will take 1 fluffy parent to produce fluffy pups. Fluffiness comes in many degrees of fluff. Fluffy Frenchies can range from a fluffy Frenchie to a fluffy with an almost twice as thick coat like the fluffy toy in one of our pictures. This means that breeders are developing and working with the coat gene. Still, fluffy Frenchies are cute and fantastic pets; they have a fluffy, cuddly look to them and are super playful. Chocolate What is so special about chocolate French bulldogs. Most chocolate Frenchies also have chocolate brown noses, lips and often even eyes! They truly can be chocolate brown — chocolate is not just an optional color. The chocolate color comes from the chocolate gene, which is recessive so chocolate French Bulldogs must have two chocolate genes to be chocolate; for this reason chocolate Frenchies are very rare and sought after. Not all chocolate French Bulldogs are chocolate brown, some chocolate French Bulldogs have very chocolatey, dark coloring making them look almost black — these dogs still carry the chocolate gene of course. Something extra special about chocolate frenchies is that their eyes come in green, brown, golden, and even bright yellow color. Elite breeder of Quality French Bulldogs. Merle French Bulldog For most people, the merle french bulldog is the most interesting in color — two are never the same due to the pattern. Their fur has unique patterns with colors that include dark brown, tan, chocolate, blue, cream, or black depending on genetics. The color that dominates is usually cream or fawn all mixed with other darker colors. The merle gene by itself should not cause any health issues. A merle French Bulldog is a dog that has the merle gene. This merle gene causes the dog to have mottled patches of color in its coat and can affect skin pigment as well. The merle pattern itself, does not cause any health issues. Some merles will sometimes have bright blue eyes as well. They may have one merle parent and one parent with a solid color or they can inherit merle from both parents. Merles that are predominantly white pied merle should only be bred to dogs with a solid coat color. The merle gene when bred with another merle can lead to health problems in their pups. Breeding merles to merles or merles to dogs with solid coats can produce merle merle pups that have two copies of the merle gene. These pups will be mostly suffer from severe health problems such as deafness, blindness, or even death. Merle French bulldogs should only be bred Ito other solid color frenchies that do not have the merle gene. Lilac french bulldogs are often high price because of they have a recessive gene which gives them their lighter color. Lilac french bulldogs often have light-colored eyes such as yellow, light brown and blue and as they mature their coats become lighter and lighter. Newborn lilac puppies look very similar to blue french bulldog puppies. Sable In the sable French bulldog, a reddish sort of pigment with basic fawn coloring is seen. In sable French bulldogs, the sable color is almost always accompanied with a mask and dark ears. However, this occurrence is very rare and unacceptable, because sables should always have a mask and dark ears. Another common trait of sable colored frenchies is they have black and black-tipped hairs. Call Us Thank you for visiting Melzano Frenchies — elite french bulldog breeders. We offer french bulldogs for sale throughout the year. Please check our site for updates and available french bulldog puppies for sale. Our puppies are raised in a home environment, and we have french bulldog puppies available year-round. We provide full after sale support for all of our french bulldog puppies and our puppy pack, french bulldog eBook, and 30 day health insurance policy. Reviews 0 Merle french bulldog for sale Are you looking for puppies and dogs for sale online but are unsure of where to look? We have the largest range of French bulldogs from the most ethical French bulldog breeders in the USA online. Every puppy purchased via us is covered by our industry-leading year health assurance since we have the most extensive network of well Socialized frenchies for sale. History of Merle French Bulldog puppies The Merle coat pattern is a pattern characterized by irregularly shaped patches of color in a base coat. This pattern is not considered a standard coat color for French Bulldogs, but it can occur as a result of breeding with other breeds that carry the Merle gene. However, some breeders may produce Merle French Bulldogs by breeding French Bulldogs with other breeds that carry the Merle gene. The Merle gene is a dominant gene, which means that if a French Bulldog is bred with a dog that carries the Merle gene, some of the puppies in the litter will have the Merle coat pattern. However, breeding two Merle French Bulldogs together can lead to health issues, as it can lead to the expression of the double-Merle gene, which can cause vision and hearing issues, and also skin problems. A well-socialized and trained dog, regardless of its coat color or pattern, can make a great companion. They are a small domestic dog breed that is known for being great companion animals. They have been popular for over a century and are one of the most beloved breeds in the world. French Bulldogs are known for being very sociable and affectionate towards their owners. They are very loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are also known for being playful and energetic, they love to play with their owners and other pets. They are also known for being very adaptable, they can live in apartments or houses, and they can adapt to different living environments. French Bulldogs are also known for being very trainable and intelligent. They are quick learners and can be easily trained to do various tricks and commands. They are also known for being very protective of their families, they make great watchdogs and will alert their owners if they sense any danger. This adorable French Bulldog pup will be the very best friend you have been looking for. He is super social sure to be the center of attention everywhere you go. This baby is being raised with children that enjoy running around playing with him daily. He is vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and health guaranteed. Both parents are French Bulldogs. If you are interested in this amazing little guy then pick up the phone and call his breeder about him today!!

How much you feed the puppy will depend on how much they weigh. If you are using a brand of puppy milk replacer, they may have directions on the side of the box. Otherwise, you can follow these general guidelines: If they are under eight ounces of weight, you should feed them one cc of milk per ounce of weight. If they are between 8 and 24 ounces, you should feed them one and a half cc of milk per ounce of weight. If they are over 28 ounces, you should feed them one ounce of milk per pound of weight. You can buy powdered or premade puppy milk replacer at a pet store, vet's office, or online. You can also make your own. Prepare the milk substitute according to its directions, and place it in the microwave to heat it up for 3 to 5 seconds. Make sure that the milk is warm, but not hot, before feeding the puppy. You can make homemade puppy milk substitute by mixing 10 ounces of goats milk, one tablespoon light corn syrup, one cup of plain white whole milk yogurt, and one egg yolk. Always use whole not low-fat dairy products. You can buy these in pre-prepared cans or in powder form. If you cannot get puppy milk replacer or make a homemade substitute in the first 24 hours, you can use pedialyte instead. This is not a long term solution, however. In general, you should use a 12 cc feeding syringe or a syringe without the needle. Using the measurements on the side, fill it with the proper amount of milk substitute based on the puppy's weight. This is a long tube that will be placed down the puppy's esophagus. Once you have attached it, draw a little formula through the tube until a drop or two comes out the other side. Place this tube in the puppy's mouth. They may suck on the end of the tube, helping you slowly guide the tube to the back of their throat. If you have never tube fed a puppy before, ask your vet to show you how to properly do this part. Your vet may be able to provide you with a feeding tube, and they can mark on the tube exactly how far the tube should go. Lay the puppy on your lap with one hand behind the puppy's head. Hold the syringe vertical above the puppy's head, and slowly press down on the plunger. If you go too quickly, the milk might go up into their nose or they might get air in their stomach. If you notice milk dribbling out of their nose or mouth, stop. Once you are done, pinch the end of the tube, and quickly remove it from the puppy's mouth. Hold the puppy up against your shoulder, with their belly against your shoulder and their head on your shoulder. Gently pat their back until they burp. This will help release any air that accidentally got in their stomachs during tube feeding. Typically, the mother licks the puppy to help the puppy relieve themselves before or after nursing. In the mother's place, you will have to do this instead. Take a warm, damp washcloth, cottonball or tissue. Gently rub around the puppy's genitals and anus until they urinate and defecate. Newborns may need to be fed every two hours for the first week or two. After that, you can start feeding them every three to four hours. By the time they're 12 ounces, you can start feeding them every five hours. A cleft palate is an opening along the middle of the palate. This opening can range from small a few millimeters to severe the entire length of the hard and soft palate. This results in a lack of tissue connection between the mouth and nasal passages, creating problems for the dog that include eating, difficulty nursing, and poor growth. Symptoms of Cleft Palate in Dogs Symptoms of a cleft palate in dogs can be easy to notice and even visible. Cleft palate in dogs can also create various health issues due to its structure. These symptoms can include: Difficulty nursing: Puppies with a cleft palate are unable to create enough suction when nursing because the oral cavity is open to the nasal cavity. The milk or food the dog does manage to get travels from the mouth to the nose, causing sneezing, nasal discharge, nasal irritation also known as rhinitis , regurgitation, and gagging. Poor growth: Without the ability to nurse and eat normally, many puppies and dogs with cleft palate do not get proper nutrition and can be lethargic, with a poor rate of growth. Aspiration pneumonia: Breathing in food and water can cause an infection of the lungs. Facial deformity: Occasionally, dogs with cleft palate will also have a facial deformity, such as cleft lip. Other issues: Though they are not always apparent at first, and depend on the cause of the cleft palate, problems with the inner ear, middle ear, swallowing apparatus, nasal septum, sinuses, and teeth may develop. Causes of Cleft Palate in Dogs There are two types of cleft palate in dogs: Congenital cleft palate is present at birth if the palate fails to fuse properly during days of gestation. This can occur for a variety of reasons: Genes: Most congenital cleft palates are genetic. Therefore, dogs with any level of cleft palate should be spayed or neutered and not used for breeding purposes. Nutrition: Cleft palates can occur with too much dietary vitamin A or a lack of folic acid during pregnancy. Medications: Most notably, steroids, aspirin, griseofulvin, and some anti-seizure medications during pregnancy can cause cleft palate in puppies. Viruses: If the mother is exposed to certain viruses at a specific time during pregnancy, her puppies may be born with cleft palate. Acquired cleft palate is a new defect that appears in a previously normal palate. Some common brachycephalic breeds predisposed to cleft palates include Boston terriers, Pekingese, Boxers, and Bulldogs. Other breeds that may have congenital cleft palate include: Miniature schnauzers. A dog may only have one deformed nostril depending on the shape and position of the cleft. You can't immediately see the opening extending inside the mouth along the hard or soft palates that accompany a lip or nostril deformity. Upper or Bottom Teeth Stick out of the Mouth Depending on the shape and position of the defect, the dog's upper or bottom teeth and gums may awkwardly stick out of the mouth. This is due to the excess fluid entering the nasal passages. Coughing or Gagging When Drinking or Nursing Coughing or gagging when attempting to drink water will also occur since some of this water is going down the trachea instead of the esophagus. A dog breeder may recognize a problem if a newborn puppy is having trouble nursing because it can't latch on to its mother or a bottle. Milk may be coming out of its nose or it may cough and gag when attempting to nurse. Malnourished These deformities and the fact that food and water can go down the airway make eating difficult so a dog may be malnourished if it isn't eating enough. Difficulty Breathing Difficulty breathing may occur if too much fluid goes down the airway as well. What Causes Cleft Palate in Dogs? A cleft palate is a congenital problem. This means that a dog is born with this problem making it a genetic condition. However, the puppy's mother may have encountered nutritional deficiencies, viruses, and poisons during pregnancy that resulted in the birth defect, as well. Purebred dogs are more likely to have the condition than mixed breeds. Breeds with brachycephalic syndrome appear to be especially at risk. A cleft palate is often noticed when a newborn puppy is not gaining weight and eating well. This exam finding is a key indicator that there may be a cleft palate inside the puppy's mouth if it's not already visible. Since there are a few different kinds of cleft palates, it may not be externally visible and the inside of the mouth will need to be examined. The roof or back of the mouth will have an opening in it if the dog has a cleft palate. A small light or special oral examination tool called a laryngoscope may be needed to see the opening, especially in a small puppy. Occasionally sedation is needed to examine this abnormality. How to Treat Cleft Palate Depending on the type of cleft palate, corrective surgery may be necessary to try and fix the deformity. Depending on the severity, sometimes supportive care including tube feeding and starting the puppy on solid foods as soon as possible can be pursued until able to surgery can be performed. A temporary prosthesis or a mouth appliance is another possibility to successfully feed a puppy until it is old enough for surgery at about three or four months of age. Prognosis for Dogs With a Cleft Palate Many puppies that have cleft palates are often euthanized shortly after birth due to the difficulty in feeding. Though surgery may be an option, it is risky when done on young dogs that are possibly malnourished and may have other complications like aspiration pneumonia. It also is usually a costly procedure with a low success rate and major post-surgical care. However, if the cleft is small and surgery is elected, the post-surgical prognosis is very good. How to Prevent Cleft Palate Since cleft palates are a birth defect, selective breeding may be the only way to try and prevent a cleft palate in a dog. A dog born with a cleft palate should not be used for breeding. Cleft paletes tend to occur more in breeds with certain skull types, especially brachycephalic breeds. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Pneumonia in dogs. Merck Veterinary Manual. Cleft palate american college of veterinary surgeons - acvs. The defect results in direct communication between the mouth and the nasal cavity. Cleft palate is due to a disorder in the processes that form the skull and jaw during embryonic development. Cleft palate is generally a congenital malformation, which means it is present at birth; unfortunately, there is no DNA test for genetic diseases that can predict the occurrence of this condition in puppies. Hare palates vary in their degree of severity: the defect is usually easily detectable, but a very small defect may be difficult to see in a newborn puppy. For this reason, immediately after whelping, puppies should always be examined for the presence of cleft palate: if cleft palate is identified or suspected, the puppy's chances of survival are very low, and the puppy almost always dies because instead of feeding on mother's milk, it ingests only air. In most cases, cleft palate is hereditary: the genetic determinism of the disease is complex and varies from breed to breed, and in most breeds, the biological determinism remains unknown. Some drugs can disrupt the normal development of the embryo or fetus; these are referred to as teratogenic drugs. Exposure of the mother of the puppies to teratogenic drugs taken during pregnancy can result in the development of cleft palate, which is why it is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before administering medications and vitamins during pregnancy. Nutritional deficiencies have been identified in the development of cleft palate. For example,folic acid is important for normal neural tube development in embryos. Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy can lead to the birth of puppies with cleft palates. Cleft palate: clinical signs and treatment Clinical signs depend on the extent of the fissure and may include sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge. Milk may be observed dripping from the nostrils when the puppy attempts to suck: other signs may include difficulty in sucking, weight loss. This situation inevitably leads to the death of the puppy. Puppies with cleft palates are predisposed to chronic rhinitis, laryngotracheitis and aspiration pneumonia. The latter can cause bronchopneumonia, which can be life-threatening for the puppy. Surgical correction may be an option in some cases but on a newborn puppy it is impossible to perform. The procedure is usually delayed until 8 to 24 weeks of age, when there is enough tissue to close the gap and when the puppy's anesthesia is easier to manage. Surgery can be challenging, and the technique used will depend on the location and severity of the cleft. In some cases, more than one surgical procedure may be needed to achieve complete closure. Pups with cleft palates require intensive supportive care, such asregular tube feeding, until surgical correction can be attempted. Tube feeding is not without risks, including regurgitation and aspiration pneumonia. If the puppy can survive for a few weeks, the surgery has an excellent long-term prognosis after surgical correction. Obviously, pups born with cleft palates should never be used in breeding. Prevention of folic acid and cleft palate In women, folic acid supplementation is recommended during gestation to prevent neural tube defects in newborns. In dogs, scientific studies have shown thatfolic acid supplementation has a preventive effect, especially in predisposed breeds. Because neural tube development stops at approximately day 30 of gestation, folic acid supplementation should be started early in pregnancy. In cases of cleft palate induced by drugs administered during pregnancy, folic acid supplementation will have no preventive effect. December 13, .Written by Dr. The result is cleft palates in kittens and puppies whose oral cavity communicates with their nasal passages. This leads to problems eating, swallowing, and receiving enough nutrition, but it also has respiratory implications. While environmental factors during gestation may theoretically yield cleft palates, this is generally regarded as an inherited condition. As such, cleft palates in puppies are far more likely to suffer these defects when they are purebreds. This is especially the case for brachycephalic short-headed breeds and bulldogs. That hole may be larger or smaller and may vary in location closer to the front or back of the mouth , but most are readily identifiable at birth. Some cleft palate defects may extend so far forward as to affect the lip. In that case, the most typical sign that one or more pups in the litter may have a cleft palate involves difficulty suckling and swallowing. Coughing, gagging, and milk bubbling from the nose are typical indicators of cleft palate in puppies, as are sneezing and snorting. Other signs usually in less obvious defects may include the failure of a pup to grow normally, a sudden onset of pneumonia typically from aspiration , or sudden death. This so-called CP1 mutation appears only in this breed. However, if handled with sufficient care and diligence, many of these puppies will survive. If elected, treatment of cleft palate depends largely on the size and location of the defect, and the degree to which the affected puppy is currently affected some pups may already suffer from pneumonia or malnutrition. Bottle or tube-feeding small quantities of milk every two hours is a typical recommendation for neonates. Older pups may transition to solid foods as early as four weeks of age. Assuming no serious complications ensue and pups are healthy enough, surgical correction may be advisable after four weeks of age. Several surgical procedures may be necessary as these pups grow and their palates expand. For this reason, as well as for reasons related to anesthetic risk, surgery is considered a last resort undertaken later in puppyhood when the palate is closer to its adult size. Note: Surgeries for cleft palates in kittens and puppies have historically suffered a low success rate. However, when performed by a board-certified surgeon or board-certified veterinary dentist, puppies tend to enjoy a far higher rate of success. These dogs are at higher risk of upper respiratory infections. Some will suffer a chronic nasal discharge that may or may not be definitively treatable. In general, breeding for exaggerated traits related to a shortened head, snub nose, and compressed airway structure will increase the risk of cleft palates. While there is no concrete evidence to state that cleft palates in puppies or kittens are hereditary, it is believed that genetics play a role in the development of cleft palates. The lifespan of cats and dogs with cleft palates varies, but, unfortunately, the overall life expectancy is relatively short. Unfortunately, because cleft palates are generally present and noticed at birth they are almost always considered a pre-existing condition by pet insurance companies. Veterinary pediatrics—dogs and cats from birth to six months. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, .Lawler DF. Neonatal and pediatric care of the puppy and kitten. Theriogenology ;70 3 .Macintire DK. Pediatric intensive care. Merck Veterinary Journal. Plunkett SJ. Fading neonatal syndromes. In: Emergency procedures for the small animal veterinarian. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, ;.The development of the palate includes the soft palate, the rostral frontal hard palate, the premaxilla section of the skull and the lips1. This defect creates an opening between the oral and nasal cavities. This opening is concerning because the puppy will have difficulties nursing leading to malnutrition and may inhale milk into the respiratory system which can lead to a sinus infection or pneumonia.Some dog breeds more commonly present with cleft defects than others suggesting a genetic component to this condition1. Genetic testing the appropriate dog breed may help reduce the chance of producing puppies with this defect, but a breeder must understand the parameters for this testing. When a new litter has one or more affected puppies, what are the treatment options and how successful are they? Hopefully, the more we understand about this congenital abnormality, the more it can be prevented. The oral and nasal cavities become distinct separate openings by fusion of certain tissues during the 23rd to the 28th day in embryonic development1,2,3. To achieve this separation of cavities, five different embryonic structures need to develop appropriately with coordination of a complex series of events including cell growth, cell migration, differentiation, and apoptosis cellular destruction 1,2,3. These five structures are the frontonasal prominence, which will become the primary palate and delineate into the incisors and medial portion of the upper lip. The right and left maxillary prominences, which will develop into the secondary hard palate and lateral portions of the upper lip. Successful fusion of the secondary palate results in complete separation of the nasal and oral cavities. Lastly, the right and left mandibular prominence will develop into the two halves of the lower jaw1,2. Genetics play a prominent role in determining this tissue development. However, the underlying genetic basis for cleft lip and palate is extremely complicated4. There can be many genes involved and only a few have been identified through research. The mode of inheritance for cleft palate depends on the breed of dog affected1. This is known as penetrance of a genetic variant or mutation. Likewise, the expression of a mutation that does present in a dog can be variable and inconsistent1. It may involve just the lip, the lip and palate or only the palate where the cleft is found. When a cleft is the only defect the puppy presents, this is classified as a nonsyndromic1. When a cleft is one of several abnormalities presenting in an affected puppy, these are considered syndromic clefts1. Nonsyndromic clefts are anecdotally more common than syndromic issues, but this may be skewed by the fact that many puppies with syndromic presentations are immediately euthanized and records are not always accurately kept1. Despite being presumptively more common, genetic testing for nonsyndromic clefts is lacking. This is in part due to a multifactorial inheritance pattern which limits the ability to study these types of clefts1. Multifactorial inheritance means many sections of DNA along with external environmental factors are involved. Skipping generations and presenting in atypical patterns, nonsyndromic clefts limit the predictability of inheritance1. The alternative to nonsyndromic clefts is, of course, syndromic clefts. The inheritance of this mutation was determined to be autosomal recessive with variable expression due to the variety of clefts demonstrated.In general, carrier dogs do not have features of the disease but when bred with another carrier of the same mutation, there is a risk of having affected pups. This mutation has not been found in other breeds so, at this time genetic testing is only appropriate for the NSDTR. Certain nutritional changes such as excessive amounts of Vitamin A, much higher than recommended therapeutic levels, or conversely Folic Acid deficiency has been associated with cleft defects5,6,7. When a chemical or drug causes a birth defect, this is called a teratogen. The effects of teratogens on the developing fetus or puppies are based on research across many species. Unfortunately, surgery should be delayed until the puppy is of an age when anesthesia is better tolerated and will not place the puppy at undo risk. This means until that time, the puppy must be carefully managed in terms of feeding and cleaning the oral cavity. Sometimes a stomach tube must be placed to ensure the puppy received adequate nutrition Complications during this time are always possible so owners must be aware of signs of distress or issues with the affected puppy. Non-resolving sinus infections or pneumonia regularly require lengthy and aggressive veterinary treatment. Clefts that only affect the lip may not be more than a cosmetic problem, but any defect in the palate will require considerable effort from the owner. Often, owners will elect to euthanize these dogs soon after birth. The best surgical time is at the discretion and experience of the veterinarian, but 4 to 6 months of age is a common time when this issue is addressed11, Surgery prior to the eruption of the permanent teeth may cause further dental issues later11, By 6 months of age the tissue around the cleft defect has mostly stabilized and the success of the corrective procedure is improved. The surgery itself depends on the planning of the veterinary surgeon. This can be done in a single procedure, but often requires multiple efforts to fully correct the defect. Post-surgical complications are common, and owners must be prepared for arduous postoperative care11, These defects create an opening between the nasal and oral cavities. This is concerning for the puppy as it prevents them from nursing properly. This leads to severe nutritional deficiencies or respiratory disease. Multiple locations during embryonic development produce the normal anatomy that separate the nasal and oral cavities. Any disruption in this development may produce a range of cleft defects. Although several breeds are suspected of having genetic mutations that cause cleft defects, the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever has had two mutations identified. Reliable genetic testing is important for determining breeding practices. To eliminate this mutation from breeding lines and to avoid the potential of producing affected pups, breeding of known carriers to each other is not recommended. Palatogenesis: morphogenetic and molecular mechanisms of secondary palate development. Reproduction and prenatal development. Philadelphia: W. Saunders Company; .Padgett GA. Control of Canine Genetic Diseases. New York: Howell Book House; .Davies M: Excess vitamin A intake during pregnancy as a possible cause of congenital cleft palate in puppies and kittens. Vet Rec Vol 4 pp. Pol J Vet Sci Vol 16 1 pp. Can Vet J Vol 13 10 pp. PLoS Genet. DavidsonA P. Gregory C, Dedrick P: Successful management permitting delayed operative revision of cleft palate in a labrador retriever. In , I had the opportunity to save this puppy. It was not one of my puppies, but I took over on a mission to save him. Tube-feeding every two hours for weeks, around the clock. Saving puppies takes time sometimes, but it is really worth it. Most vets and breeders will tell you to euthanize, and for good reason, as they do not want to see the puppy suffer, and most people do not realize how much time it can take. If someone just tries to save the puppy by putting a little effort into it, instead of a LOT, the puppy will suffer, and slowly die. This is NOT fair. It is encouraging to hear that they can be saved with commitment and time. Many cleft puppies are being saved around the world, and the vets that recommended euthanasia are getting to see how good these puppies can do, and what normal, healthy, active lives they can live. The vets cannot be blamed for recommending euthanasia. That is what they learned in vet school, and it has been the normal recommendation for years and years. The vets also believe clefts have to be repaired ASAP for the puppy to survive. That is not always true. What is Cleft? A cleft palate is an opening in roof of the mouth. Clefts can be very different in size and placement. Pictured to the left is a cleft on a 4-month-old cleft puppy. This pup was bottle-fed for five weeks and tube-fed for six weeks. He now swallows kibble whole and drinks water from a bowl. We watched and waited for a natural close-down, but it didn't happen. Cleft puppies cannot nurse no matter how hard they try, as they cannot get any suction. It would be like you trying to suck on your finger without closing your mouth. The sign of a cleft pup is when the pup tries to nurse, there is no latch-on and it can only mouth the nipple. Some cleft palates are so severe that euthanasia is necessary. Cleft palate on a newborn puppy If you choose not to intervene, please take the pup to the vet and have him humanely put to sleep, as otherwise he will slowly starve to death. A Decision Must be Made The question you need to ask yourself is: Are you willing and able, and do you have the time and desire to devote to the care of your special pup. If your answer is yes, it is recommended you seek info from an experienced vet. Time is VERY important to intervene. We have had the most rewarding experience of saving one of these pups. I work full-time, so with the help of a friend, we did it! Bev from Canada. Timbit was born on July 23rd, with a cleft palate, which was eventually surgically repaired when he was 6 months old. At birth he was turned over to MistyTrails Havanese to ensure he received the best care and was raised and cared for by them and is now a happy, healthy, well trained little guy who fits right in with his home that adopted him after surgery about 9 years ago. Their reputation for being able to save cleft palate dogs has led many to seek out their help. They have since fostered and saved two more Cleft puppies, that are thriving in forever homes. Timbit at 10 years old Courtesy of MistyTrails Havanese.

You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. Parent Breeds The parent breeds of the German shepherd pitbull mix include the German shepherd and the American pitbull terrier. As these breeds are both large dogs, the resulting mix is a large dog with unique physical and personality traits from both parent breeds. German Shepherd The German shepherd was originally selectively bred from shepherd dogs in 19th century Germany, where it was used as a herding dog. The breed was developed to be intelligent, strong, agile, and protective of flocks, all qualities that made it successful in its line of work. Horand von Grafath was recognized as the first German shepherd dog in .Today, the breed is still regarded as one of the best working dogs in the world because of its loyalty and eagerness to please. The German shepherd is used in police work, detection, service work, and search and rescue. German shepherd pitbull mixes often inherit the protective, hardworking temperament, strength, and wolf-like features of the German shepherd. The dogs were bred from terriers and bulldogs and used in blood sports like bullbaiting and dogfighting. American pitbull terriers were later selectively bred in the United States to have the muscular builds, sizes, and affectionate temperaments seen today. With proper socialization, American pitbull terriers make loyal, well-behaved companions. Lifespan A German shepherd pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years if the dog follows a nutritious diet and exercises daily. Regular vet checkups help reduce the risk of health complications in German shepherd pitbull mixes. This mixed breed comes in shades of tan, white, gray, or black. Height and Weight German shepherd pitbull mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 18—26 inches, and a weight of 30—90 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. Most German sheppits are lean, muscular, and slightly taller than their pitbull parents. Colors German shepherd pitbull mixes are typically tan, white, or black with bicolor markings. The coat color depends on the genes they inherit from their parents: German shepherd colors: Most common color combination is black and tan. Other colors include solid black, gray, red, and white. American pitbull terrier colors: Common colors are brown, black, and tan with various markings. Rare colors include solid white and brindle. German sheppits shed minimally to moderately throughout the year, depending on coat type. Double-coated dogs blow their coats twice a year. Personality and Temperament Photo by spcaofnorthernnevada German shepherd pitbull mixes are smart, affectionate, and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They get along well with kids, and their intelligence and athletic stature make them well-suited to agility classes and fieldwork. Socializing and training this mixed breed from a young age will help it grow into an outgoing, obedient, and even-tempered adult. These dogs can be trained with positive reinforcement from an early age to not bark excessively. Left alone, German sheppits often experience anxiety and engage in destructive behavior, like barking and scratching, to cope. While smart and not fussy over food, these dogs need plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy. Food Needs A German sheppit adult should be fed 2 to 3. Grooming Needs The German shepherd pitbull mix should be brushed weekly, or a few times per week if it has inherited a double coat, to distribute natural oils and keep its fur tangle-free. Bathe the dog once every few months and ensure its nails are well-trimmed. Exercise Needs An adult German shepherd pitbull mix requires at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two separate walks, to remain physically fit. A two-month-old puppy needs 10 minutes of exercise per day, while a four-month-old puppy requires 20 minutes. German sheppits do best in homes with large, secure backyards where they can run freely. Certain states, cities, and territories have laws in place that restrict or ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes. Check local laws before exercising this mixed breed in new areas. Mental Needs German shepherd pitbull mixes need 60 minutes of mental stimulation per day to prevent aggression, boredom, and anxiety. Suitable mentally-stimulating activities include obedience training, scent work, herding, puzzle toys, agility classes, and interactive games like fetch. Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed with medication and surgery. Bloat : When the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, and then twists, causing severe abdominal pain. Bloat is often fatal if not treated immediately. Hip dysplasia : Abnormal formation of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility issues. Treatable with surgery and lifestyle changes. Degenerative myelopathy : Degeneration of the spinal cord that causes leg weakness, incontinence, and eventually paralysis. The condition is managed and treated with lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases surgery. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, exercise intolerance, and coat changes. Hypothyroidism is treatable with medication. Cataracts : Cloudiness of the eye lens that causes vision issues. The German sheppit is particularly prone to food and skin allergies. Take these dogs to regular vet checkups to reduce their risks of health complications. Use positive reinforcement and be firm and consistent when training this mixed breed. Never use punishment-based training methods because these can cause anxiety in dogs and exacerbate their aggressive behaviors. These dogs need plenty of training and socialization throughout their lives to keep their dog aggression in check. German shepherd pitbull mixes are often available for adoption from rescue shelters. This price includes expenses such as food, treats, vet checkups, toys, and training. First-year costs are higher than subsequent years because of the costs of first-year puppy vaccinations and neutering or spaying, and initial supplies like bedding. The German shepherd pitbull mix is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves pleasing its owners. The mixed breed is playful, energetic, and well-suited to people that lead active lifestyles. German shepherd pitbull mixes are suitable for people that are active, have a large backyard, and can dedicate lots of time to socializing and training the dog. The best owners for these dogs are people that use positive reinforcement measures and stick to set boundaries. First-time dog owners should also avoid these dogs because the breed is difficult to manage without proper socialization and training. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Conclusion 1. What does a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? It is impossible to tell with certainty what the dog will look like when it is a mixed breed. What we do know is that this breed is more likely to have the face of the Pitbull, with a broad head and a short muzzle. As for coloring, this breed comes in a variety of colors: black, white, brown, tan, gray and fawn. Given that both the Pitbull and German Shepherd have strong physiques, it is not surprising that this mixed breed does too. Fully grown, these dogs are large , as mentioned in the first paragraph their average weight between lbs 29 — 38 kgs , so it is important that you have her under control. You can do this by properly training and socializing her. What characteristics can I expect? As with all crossbreeds, it is not easy to say precisely what temperament this dog will have, as it will always be a different combination. In my experience, however, they tend to have the following traits: High energy All dogs need regular exercise to stay fit, and this large breed usually needs a whole lot. I recommend at least a one-hour walk a day, providing you have an outdoor space where she can release excess energy for the rest of the day. By giving her the exercise she needs, you will avoid undesired behaviors such as slipper-chewing, hole-digging or nuisance barking. As long as she gets her exercise needs met, she will be happy to settle down and relax with you. Loyal and loving Pitbull German Shepherd mixes are very affectionate dogs when raised right. While they are good at entertaining themselves, they still love to be around you and make a good family dog. This dog can have a very protective nature. This is due to its German Shepherd relatives , who were bred to herd and guard livestock. To prevent this from the outset, you should socialize her with people as much as possible from an early age. Intelligence Both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd are incredibly intelligent breeds. It is no surprise, then, that this mix is no exception. These dogs learn quickly and respond incredibly well to training and commands. Just as you exercise her body, it is important to keep her mind stimulated, too. You should start training at the earliest possible stage. It is important to keep a close eye on this type of behavior because, if it gets out of control, it can turn into aggression. What are the common health problems? Providing that she has a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned above this breed can live for up to 12 years. Every dog breed is susceptible to certain health difficulties, however, and it is good to be aware of these so that you can treat your dog accordingly. In the meantime, it is worth knowing that this breed can suffer from the following diseases: Skin irritation The Pitbull German Shepherd mix can be prone to skin irritation, which they inherit from the Pitbull side of its family. They tend to have more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites as well as to fleas and ticks. To prevent this reaction, make sure you use a high-quality tick and flea treatment. Diet also plays an important part in maintaining the health of the skin. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that can begin in dogs as they grow and results in an unstable or loose hip joint. While weight management is essential for any dog breed, it is highly important that this breed maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the hip joint. How much will I need to groom her? This mix has a coat that can range from short to medium in length. I recommend starting your grooming regime when she is a puppy so that she can get used to the routine. I do not advise over-bathing these dogs no more than once a month due to their tendency to skin irritation. It may also be worth buying a shampoo specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. German Pits are usually floppy-eared, which means they get less air circulation and are therefore more prone to earwax build-up and ear infections. I advise that you get her ears checked at least monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. So is the German Pit the right fit for me? After all the information you have read, it is now important to put this question to yourself. As you can see, these dogs have the potential to be lovely, loyal dogs that are ideal for a family. Yet they require a lot of attention, walking and training, so they need a dedicated, and preferably experienced, dog owner. Conclusion Here are the main points to consider before committing to owning one of these dogs: Are you an experienced dog owner? Are you dedicated to walking your dog at least an hour a day? Do you have a spacious house with a yard, or can you walk her twice daily? Are you able to provide a rigorous and dedicated training routine? If not, it might be time to reconsider getting a different breed of dog. Do you own a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. I have worked with various large breeds all my life. The German Shepherd is my favorite. I recently brought home a mixed breed. .Our Puppy is high energy at 8 weeks old. Highly intelligent and very affectionate. I have a large family with lots of boys and 1 girl. So our family is definitely the right fit! In my opinion every family member should have an caring active role in raising the family dog. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. Adopting a German Shepherd Pitbull mix from an adoption center is the best thing you can do. It can be life changing — not only for the dog but to you as well. He requires a low-to-medium maintenance level due to its short coat and a moderate amount of shedding. Brushing his coat can be done weekly, or three times a week if you are the type of person who is greatly bothered by scattered dog hair. Make sure to clean his ears often since this area is common to accumulate dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Nail trimming should be accomplished every few weeks to keep his paws clean and healthy. Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd Health Problems Provided that he is given the proper care and is living a healthy lifestyle, this crossbreed can live up to 12 years. Every breed is susceptible to specific health issues, and so it is essential that as a dog owner, you are aware of these things so that you know how to take care well of your dog accordingly. It is worth remembering that the Pitbull crossed with German Shepherd may suffer from the following diseases. Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The disease is characterized by malformation of the hip joints which may cause lameness and ongoing pain. Atopic Dermatitis: It is an inflammatory skin condition which may be triggered by exposure to certain environmental factors such as grass sprayed with pesticides and mold spores. To avoid this condition from affecting your pup, make sure to keep your house clean. Also, keep an eye for increased use of pesticides at dog parks. Skin Irritation: The Pitbull German Shepherd is prone to skin irritation, which it inherits from the Pitbull side of the family. They have a more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites, such as fleas and ticks. Generally, feeding him cups of good quality dry food daily in combination with nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. A well-balanced diet covering all the essential nutrients, including an appropriate protein and calorie intake, is vital in an active breed like the German Sheppit. On average, the German Shepherd Pitbull needs calories for males, while calories for females. Its core ingredients include ground brown and white rice, lamb meal and chicken meal. It has all-natural ingredients infused with additional minerals and vitamins. Its main components include chicken, real beef and salmon meat products. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: If your Pitbull German Shepherd has food allergies, this dog food is the right choice for you. It is a grain-free turkey and potato recipe dog food supplemented with antioxidant-rich kibble. This dog food is formulated to minimize food sensitivities while maximizing the nutritional value dogs receive. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient: This dog food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your pooch is still a munchkin, you should go through best puppy food brands. Senior, gray-coated dogs require different diets. Your pooch takes genes from two parents. This means you could also take into account buying the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Pitbull Crossed with German Shepherd Exercise Requirements The Pitbull German Shepherd mix is an active and high-energy dog, so it might get destructive if he gets bored. This breed love to move around and therefore enjoys doing exercise activities. It is recommended to exercise him at least 90 minutes daily. Their exercise requirement is not just a guideline, but it is crucial that they are met. Without enough exercise, this breed may fall into a pattern of aggressive and destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, unwanted chewing, and digging. Mental stimulation exercises should also be part of your routine to keep them from getting bored and further improve its social interactions. You can provide your pet with interactive dog toys. While it is true that they come from parent breeds with remarkable high intelligence, you should be warned that training them can be a bit overwhelming. Patience, attention, more time and positive reinforcement are the key components that owners should abide by in training this crossbreed. This is for your dog to learn the proper etiquette at a young age and avoid developing unwanted behaviors when it grows up. Remember to keep the pace of the training slow as your pup is still young and its body might still be fragile. After a year or two, however, you can increase the pace. Moreover, take note that an experienced trainer is better than a novice trainer. You need to be strong and authoritative. Otherwise, this dog will try to dominate you. Gentle yet firm treatment is the way to go with the German Sheppit puppy. Use Positive ReinforcementEven if this mixed breed has a tendency to become stubborn, avoid taking extreme measures. Using negative punishment-based training will not do any help, he might just end up not respecting you as a leader. Make it a regular routine to reward him whenever he does something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules. Training your German Sheppit consistently in a positive method will provide you with pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Puppy socialization has been proven to reduce developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. You just have to introduce and desensitize your dog to different people and environments. You can try doing the following: Puppy classes Playing at dog-friendly parks Make him attend doggy daycares The above activities ensure that your dog interacts with a range of fellow dogs and people as well on different environments, which may include on and off leash interactions. Include Mental Exercises on Their TrainingThe Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing aggressive and other unwanted behaviors. Mental stimulation activities can be in the form of games or puzzles. German Shepherd Pitbull and Families With consistent proper training, exercise and correct socialization, the German Shepherd Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, friendly and affectionate towards family members, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. This crossbreed can even be the perfect breed for children, especially that its parent breed Pitbull was previously known as a nanny dog. Young kids, especially those under 8 years old, may play rough with dogs and they may tire them out or provoke them unknowingly causing the dogs to react in aggressive behaviors. Children should be taught to love and respect all members of the family including your four-legged family companions. This dog loves to spend time with you and other family members. So give love lots of affection to your German Shepherd crossed with Pitbull and expect an unconditional love in return. 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 people and though he's teething and tries to nibble on my hand when I pet him, he doesn't ever try to nibble on strangers or neighbors. He has a ton of energy and is very stubborn but he is also very smart. He was potty trained in one week without barely any effort. Rusty craves attention and is kind of difficult to train because of his stubborn personality and he doesn't like to cuddle unfortunately. He loves to play with our 12 year old Lab Retriever mix and he doesn't hurt her at all even though she gets annoyed with him easily. She loves to run and play but she knows when its time to calm down. I think this is the best breed combo. She has become the best dog I have owned. She is smart and protective of her family and home. Her dad is a lb long haired German Shepherd and her mom is a blue brindle Pit Bull. She is a show stopper everywhere we go! Her personality is split between both breeds. She loves to rough house with her best friends and then at the end of the day she likes to sleep under the bed. Such a sweet girl! He was being shown at Petsmart for adoption and they were giving up hope in finding him a home. I went in for cat food and the second I saw him, I knew! He was skinny and stinky, but I looked at my husband and said we're getting this dog! Murray is handsome and happy. He goes camping with us, loves to ride in the car and going to the vet. He's chased many deer, gotten skunked in the face four times and fought raccoons. I've only recently started watching the Dog Whisperer, Cesar Milan and it re-enforces that I've been doing almost everything right in my handling and understanding of my dog. I've learned from Cesar, to claim your space with other dogs, as well as my own, how to stay calm and meet a new dog and how not to let the dog exit or enter a house before you. I knew I wasn't going to be one of those women being dragged down the street by a dog half my weight so from the start, he was trained to walk with me and not pull me. I've used mouth click sounds or a quick tug on his leash and he's quick to follow. He has three long walks everyday, and watching him find his groove and 'prance' is pure joy for him and me. Through being kind and patient, I've shown him that the back scratcher isn't a weapon and the hair dryer isn't as terrifying as he thought. Now he comes to the room for the enjoyment of getting 'blow dried' on the cool setting and affection. Because of Cesar's understanding of dogs, countless people are becoming in tune to the language of a dog. I've noticed only half of the dog walkers around here know how to walk their dog and for the ones that do, their dog's good and polite demeanor is evident in their dog handling. Unlike the tiny terror and his tiny owner- who thinks his insane high pitched barking is friendly. One day, walking out of the woods, the sunset was beautiful and I said "sweet" out loud and Murray stopped, looked back and thought I'd said "treat"! We laughed all the way home! I love my Shepherd Pit mix and I am his proud pack leader! They are still prized working dogs on ranches or farms, but can fit well into active families with older kids. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies need lots of socialization, training and exercise. They require regular grooming despite their short coat, and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. However, when you give them everything they need, this mix can be an amazing companion for experience dog owners and working dog trainers too. A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd was developed with the hopes of creating the perfect herding and service dog. Because of the cold and wet European climate, the German Shepherd had to be very hardy to handle long days in often brutal conditions. At that time, it became popular with military, police, and service work. Early Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create an athletic, bold dog primarily used for hunting. This is a practice where the dog would grasp a bull, bear, or other large animal around the head. Today, Pitbulls are still very agile dogs that make excellent contestants in agility, weight pulling, and tracking tests. This mix will be tall with a medium build and a coat that will range in length from short to long, depending on their parents. They will have a relatively long muzzle, dark eyes, a long tail and pointed ears. The German Shepherd Pitbull mix is probably going to be a large dog. You can expect a German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid to grow up to 17—24 inches tall at the shoulder. If a hybrid puppy takes after its German Shepherd parent, then they may mature to between 80 and 90 pounds. When they more closely resemble their Pitbull parent, then they may reach anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Additionally, hybrids may look more like one parent than the other, or they may appear to be a lovely mix of both parents. Both breeds are commonly associated with territorial aggression and biting, both of humans and other dogs. Of course, with mixed breeds, you cannot say with much certainty how much the offspring of two purebred dogs will take after their parents. This goes for looks, health, and temperament. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies are no different. The Pitbull was first bred to fearlessly attack large animals and later to work, hunt and protect. This means that they are strong and agile enough to chase after such animals as cattle and hogs. Also, if needed, they can grasp and hold a moving animal with their powerful jaws. They can also be territorial. Furthermore, fewer Pitbulls in the study had attempted to bite their owner or a strange human than those who had attempted to or had attacked a strange dog in the past. Socialization As we mentioned earlier, proper training and socialization with other dogs and humans from an early age can help to prevent a puppy with German Shepherd lineage from developing aggressive behavior later in life. This is especially important if your dog has hypothyroidism in its genes. Additionally, both Pitbulls and German Shepherds are working breeds that are high energy. German Shepherd and Pitbull Health Your puppy has the potential to inherit the following conditions from one or both of their parents: Allergies — Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and dust cause itchy skin on the feet, belly, folds of skin, and ears. Hip dysplasia Patellar luxation — When the knee cap pops out of place while the dog is in motion. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis — Progressive nerve damage that results in weakness of the legs and sometimes blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — An inherited disorder in which deterioration of the retina leads to eventual blindness. Bladder stones —Pitbulls can inherit Hyperuricosuria. The urine is too acidic, which causes precipitation of solid masses called bladder stones or kidney stones depending on where they form. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is about 11 years. Similarly, the Pitbull typically lives between 11 and 13 years. This means that you can expect a German Shepherd Pitbull mix to live to be approximately 11 or 12 years of age. A Shepherd Pitt may mature to be a large dog with lots of energy. In addition to the energy outlet, exercise is also important for this hybrid due to the high probability of it developing hip dysplasia. As a family dog, this hybrid may not be ideal for homes with young children or other dogs. Make sure that you meet both parents. They should be relaxed and confident around strangers, if not overly friendly. Make sure the breeder also shows you evidence of clear health test certificates.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders listings page. Prices vary depending on where you get your dog and the bloodlines of your new pup. German shepherd puppies are often purchased by people looking for guard dogs, police work or herding. As a result, the demand is high and prices are high as well. If you are looking for a family dog, they are great dogs, but you should be prepared to spend a bit more than you would for a mutt from the pound. That said, GSDs are known for their intelligence, strength and protectiveness, so many people feel that the extra money is worth it. Responsible breeders only breed their dogs when they have health clearances and genetic testing done on both the sire and dam. They also place puppies in homes that they feel will be good owners, and they typically follow up with their puppies throughout their lives. Responsible breeders also charge more for their puppies because they know that the puppies are going to good homes and that the parents have been health tested. You can find a list of responsible breeders in your area by contacting your local German Shepherd Dog Club or searching online. Responsible breeders will also provide you with a health guarantee for the puppy. This guarantee should cover things like genetic conditions, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. It is important to read the fine print of the guarantee before you buy the puppy to make sure that you are covered in case something happens. Visit Your Nevada German Shepherd Breeder in Person Visiting your breeder in person is very important, and we highly recommend that you do so before you purchase your puppy. This will give you a chance to meet the sire and dam of the litter, as well as the puppies themselves. If possible, try to visit at feeding time. You can also ask to see where the dogs sleep or rest when they are not with their pups. Make sure that all of the dogs appear healthy and happy, without any signs of ill health or malnutrition. All of their food should be fresh, clean water be available at all times, and the kennels or living area should be clean. If you have any questions, the breeder should be happy to answer them. Finding a good breeder is essential if you want a healthy, well-adjusted German Shepherd puppy. Responsible breeders take great pride in their dogs and their puppies, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have. We hope that this article has been helpful in your search for the perfect GSD pup. A good breeder will be happy to provide you with the names and phone numbers of previous buyers. The best way to find out if a breeder is responsible is to talk to their previous customers. References will give you a look into what you can expect from the breeder, and they will give you a chance to ask questions that might have been missed during your initial phone or in-person interview. Breeders should be happy to answer any of your questions, so if they are reluctant to provide references, it may be a sign that there is something wrong. This will give you a chance to ask them questions about their experience with the breeder, and it will help you get a better idea of what to expect if you purchase a puppy from them. All of the people that you talk to should have nothing but good things to say about the breeder. If anyone has had any negative experiences, the breeder should be willing to work on making things right. However, if most or all of their reviews are negative, it might be a sign that something is seriously wrong. If you find an excellent breeder, they will be happy to introduce you to past customers so that you can get all your questions answered. If the breeder is reluctant to do so, it may be because there are issues with their operation. Good breeders will always take their dogs to the veterinarian when they are sick or injured, and they will also have regular check-ups. It is important to ask the breeder about their relationship with their veterinarian. Signs that a breeder is unethical include: Breeding unhealthy dogs. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Stryker was born here and has been raised and trained by his owner Bob Knowlton. He has the legendary look of the East German dog along with the superior bloodline, temperament and performance of the West German working lines. Powerfully built with seldom seen broad strong head, heavy bone strength along with awesome substance and correct proportions. Shows an excellent relationship with his handler in obedience with reliable reactions to the commands. The ultimate home protection dog, perfect house manners, sleeps every night within the house. Calm and very relaxed when not challenged. Great working ability with high level accomplishments. Enthusiastic and enjoys working with non-stop drive for a ball, will perform the obedience exercises over and over again expecting the reward. Always showing hard full grips and expelent garding. He is out of our last litter from Tom vom Haus Pixner. You can find information on Stryker's sire Tommy on our pastdogs page here You can find information on Fiby, Stryker's dam on our pastdog page here To see more pictures of Stryker click here. Post category: German Shepherd German Shepherd Puppies Reno Nv German shepherd puppies for sale near Reno, NV are the most sought after pets around the country because of their lovable personality and loving nature. They are gentle, affectionate, and loving. German Shepherd Dogs are small and have short coats. German shepherd puppies are wonderful animals with an almost baby-like sweetness and innocence. They are very intelligent and can be trained quickly. They will soon get along with other dogs and enjoy playing with them. The best thing about them is that they do not shed. German shepherd puppies for sale near Reno, NV are found at many breeders and rescue groups who are experienced with breeding these amazing dogs. You should check out all of these pet organizations before bringing your new puppy home to you. If you are looking for a family dog, then the German Shepherd rescue center may be your best bet. Most of the dog rescue centers have an online chat room where you can interact with the staff and the dogs. You can also request information about the dogs and even make friends with some of them! Before adopting a dog from a shelter, you should look at the history of the dog and its current health condition. You should take a close look at its teeth because they may need replacing if they are worn down. German shepherd puppies for sale near Reno, NV come in a wide variety of colors. The most common color for dogs like the Labrador Retriever is black. But if you love any of the colors like chocolate, or a white German Shepherd Puppy, then go ahead and adopt one of those beautiful dogs. The adoption fees are reasonable for dogs like this, but the cost may be a bit higher. But if you know what you are getting into, you will not regret it! Once you have a dog like this, it will bring joy to your life forever! Share this:.

Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Life Span Did You Know? A Double Doodle is a cross between a Labradoodle and a Goldendoodle. Double Doodles tend to be loving, friendly, social, and intelligent dogs with playful personalities. Double Doodles are large fluffy dogs that love to cuddle and love to play. They tend to be described as big teddy bears. In addition to their sweet, affectionate disposition, these dogs also have a cheerful and friendly personality. They tend to get along fantastically with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may tend to bark at strangers, but they are generally open and friendly with strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. Double Doodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Their size and high energy levels make them a better fit for larger homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartments, but you will need to be able to dedicate a lot of time to making sure they get the daily exercise and mental stimulation they need. As with any dog breed, Double Doodles are sensitive to heat. They tend to do relatively well in the cold. Because these dogs are highly social and are family-oriented, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? They can be sometimes. Just as a mixed-breed dog has the chance to inherit none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds, they also could inherit a combination or even all of them. For the Double Doodle, potential health conditions to be aware of include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and thyroid issues. They can also be prone to having sensitive stomachs. Due to their size and shape, Double Doodles can also be at risk for bloat, which can become dangerous. So, you do want to know how to reduce the risk of bloat in dogs and also the symptoms to look for so you can get medical attention quickly. You also want to ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Reputable breeders will be screening their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies, so they should be able to answer your questions. Double Doodles are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. This tends to make them a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. They tend to respond well to obedience training as long as it is consistent and keeps them interested. These dogs thrive on your approval, so they respond best to training that focuses on praise and reward. A Double Doodle tends to have a long, slightly wiry, and curly coat. Although they are low-shedding, they do need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Brushing a few times a week, if not daily, is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming every weeks is also recommended. The groomer can help with some of it, but you will still need to take care of these tasks at home between appointments. This is essential to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Plus, if anything is happening, you can catch it early and get to the vet. Unfortunately, many dog owners overlook dental care for dogs , which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. By starting early and practicing good dental care throughout their life, you can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day is ideal. Double Doodles are high-energy dogs. They need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. And, they love being active with you, so they will likely be up for more activity if you are. Since they are sociable and friendly dogs, playtime with people, play dates with other dogs, or trips to the dog park are great activities for them. Because they are athletic dogs, you can try a lot of different activities with them once they are fully-grown and their joints have finished developing. Double Doodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. A Double Doodle generally lives for years. Although Double Doodle is the most common name for this designer breed, they are also sometimes called a Golden Labradoodle, North American Retriever, or a Double Doodlepoo. Featured Double Doodle Article. Have questions about Goldendoodles or Florida Puppies? What type of dog breed is a Goldendoodle? Different generations of Goldendoodles exist. An F2 Goldendoodle means both parents were Goldendoodles. An F2B is multi-generational. Goldendoodle breeders Florida sell Goldendoodle puppies for sale Florida at a range of different prices depending on what generation they come from. Also, their pedigree, the experience of the breeder as well as the location, coat color and texture will also affect the price. At the end of the day, the good news is that there will be a Goldendoodle that you can afford! Do Goldendoodle breeders work with families out of state? If you cannot find Goldendoodle breeders in Florida and businesses, Florida Puppies has a very broad network which connects you with breeders, companies and businesses from all over the U. They have a lot of experience arranging travel arrangements for their puppies, including flying their puppies to you! What are your standards for Goldendoodle breeders? Florida Puppies has really high standards for Mini Goldendoodle breeders Florida and companies that sell Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Florida. We have a tough screening process where we look at all things that make up a wonderful breeder or business, such as great breeding facilities that are clean and spacious, as well as good health care. Why is Florida Puppies so different from other places? Florida Puppies is a great place to go through when looking for a Goldendoodle for sale in Florida because we have things in place such as a Breeder Pledge. This allows you to take a glimpse at what we look for in breeders, companies and businesses connected to us. We really focus on connecting authentic and compassionate breeders and businesses with loving families. Do Goldendoodles suffer in puppy mills? Puppy mills are the most awful places for Mini Goldendoodle puppies Florida. Goldendoodle puppies Florida suffer badly. Often their hair gets matted, and their health suffers terribly. They often pass away at a very young age due to ill health. What health problems do Goldendoodles suffer with? A Miniature Goldendoodle Florida may suffer with certain health issues that are only multiplied when they come from puppy mills. These health issues include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation very common in most dog breeds, affecting the knees , and skin conditions that can come from bacterial, mold, dirt and fleas, as well as a few more health conditions. All you have to do is connect with one of the breeders, companies or businesses selling the Goldendoodle puppy you like, and plans will be made to get that puppy to you! Is it easy to find a Goldendoodle with Florida Puppies? All you have to do is scroll through our site and look for a Goldendoodle puppy that you like, and connect with its breeder, business or company. Then, all that needs to be organised are arrangements to get your new furry pup to you! What is the history of the Goldendoodle? Breeding began in the s in England, after the Cockapoo and the Labradoodle became really popular. Goldendoodles Available!

Australian Labradoodles in Windsor, Ontario! At pm on July 17th, , Cozy gave birth to her very first puppy. Just over an hour later, there were 5 more puppies in the world and by that evening, we had NINE healthy, happy puppies from Cozy by the fire. These Australian Labradoodles are medium-sized and will be between lbs full grown. They can go home as early as September 11th. In the wee hours of the morning, Tully gave birth to here very first litter and the puppies are adorable. We had 4 boys and 2 girls! We are so excited for this new litter and the best part is for the first time in 3 years, we have availabilities that are ready to go home NOW! They are medium sized Australian Labradoodles and will be lbs full grown with a going-home date of August 21st, .First bred as a non-shedding Guide Dog - this particular breed of Labradoodles has been in existence for over 30 years. Originally bred in Australia, their genealogy consists of not only Labrador Retriever and Poodle, but also the Cocker Spaniel. They are a non-shedding, hypo-allergenic, medium-sized breed that behave amazingly and are easily trained to suit your needs and your family. Rousey goes to Kidzwatch Drop in Daycare! Rousey goes paddleboarding! Attention prospective purchasers!! A note of caution to please do your homework when looking for an Australian Labradoodle puppy, so you won't be disappointed! Please google the name of the kennel, and "reviews" and "puppy mill" to make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder. There are many scammers out there! Our dogs are family, raised in our home, not in cages. They travel with us on holidays, and sleep in our bed. Puppies are born in our family room and are well socialized, used to kitchen and family sounds and smells. They are loved and handled from birth. The last thing you want is a puppy with health problems! We are a very small breeder, but our dogs are extensively health tested and well cared for! Please see our puppies page! Welcome to our website! We are home breeders of authentic multi-generational Australian Labradoodles! Our dogs are our fur kids and live indoors as family. We have absolutely fallen in love with this wonderful, amazing breed, and are sure you will also, if you haven't already. Non-shedding, allergy friendly, family dogs, puppies occasionally available. Please check back often and reserve a fur-kid soon! Ontario breeders of Labradoodle puppies that want to take you home! We value quality over quantity! We provide links on our last page to other reputable breeders. We love our life's work! And know You will Too! Arrowhead, Established in .We are the only family that breed our particular line of Cobberdogs, and are happy to announce we are now offering top quality MDBA registered Australian Cobberdog breeding dogs for sale. When you purchase a puppy from Arrowhead you are getting fresh and exciting genetics, creating the best temperaments and therapy Labradoodles and Cobberdogs ever. We have researched for years, traveled far and worked long hours to build our program to be one of the finest and most complete Labradoodle breeding programs in the world! We value the health and temperament of each of our Labradoodles , and provide clean, spacious living conditions for our family of companion Labradoodles. We provide an all natural, locally made food for our dogs and also an environment that contributes to each Cobberdog being a cherished member of our lives. Many of them are in caring foster homes and receive a life of continual support and love from two families, the foster family and us at Arrowhead. Please browse through our site, learn more about what we do and why. We are grateful for all the wonderful families who give our puppies great homes, because without them the magnificent Australian Cobberdog would not be a reality! Available Labradoodle and Cobberdog Puppies Loading

Now that you know some of the best German Shepherd breeders in New Jersey, you must be wondering how much you will need to pay for a good puppy from a reputable breeder. The price of the German Shepherd Puppy can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder, the location, lineage, and their purpose in life. If you are getting a dog from a high-end breeder with a prestigious line of German Shepherds, you will of course need to pay a much higher price. As this dog breed is extremely intelligent and useful in many disciplines of working life, they are not usually purchased as pets, so you will have to expect to pay a little bit more, as their price increases because of this. Also, the price of a puppy will significantly rise if the breeder has done all the health tests and has each certificate to prove this. These dogs are less likely to suffer from any health conditions later in life, and are therefore, much more expensive. On the other hand, if you are looking to buy a service or police dog, then you can expect to pay a lot. Even though they can be really pricey, these dogs are worth it, believe me — their intelligence, capabilities, great temperament, and companionship make up for the money invested. We have done this research and compiled all this important information in order to help you choose a perfect breeder that will provide you with the best possible puppy. We hate to see our readers regret their decision of getting a puppy, just because they ran into a breeder that does not care about his dogs and clients. A true lover of dogs will never let their pups end up with just anyone, but will make sure that the potential buyer actually loves owning dogs and has the appropriate conditions for raising such a dog. On the other hand, a reputable breeder will also make sure that all his puppy parents are in perfect health, so the future puppies will also be healthy and happy. These are just some of the things you need to be careful of when looking for a German Shepherd breeder. Once you have that little fur pup with you at home, I am sure that you will forget all the stress and time spent in the process of searching for the right one, and he or she will bring light and happiness into your life. Related Content:. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders page. When looking for a German Shepherd pup, there are a few things you should take into account before making your purchase. When purchasing a German Shepherd puppy, be prepared to make a long-term commitment to taking care of your new family member. They will require regular exercise, plenty of socialization, and training. With proper care, your GSD will be by your side for many years to come. Reputable breeders are more than happy to show you where the dog was born, raised, and even introduce you to its parents. As part of your purchase agreement with a breeder, make sure there is some sort of guarantees included on the health of the pup for up to 1 year after making your purchase. This warranty will ensure you can take your pup to the vet if any health problems do arise in the future. Visit Your New Jersey German Shepherd Breeder in Person Before handing over your money, you should be allowed to visit with the puppies and their parents. If everything looks good and the breeder is reputable, take the time to ask them as many questions as you can about the pup, its parents, and how it has been raised. This will help you get a sense of what to expect in the years ahead. A responsible German Shepherd breeder will be more than happy to answer any and all of your questions and provide additional information beyond what is covered in this article. They should make you feel confident that you are making the right decision in purchasing one of their puppies. Reputable breeders typically want to ensure their pups go home and stay home with the right family so may be hesitant about giving out too much information over the phone or the internet. References will also give you an idea of what you should expect if you decide to purchase a dog from your new breeder. By talking to them and seeing how they interact with their dog, it will give you an idea of what life is really like living with one of these loyal companions. Meeting with past customers will also help you get a sense of whether the breeder is reputable or not. If everything looks good, take the time to ask your breeder for specific contact information from these families so you can reach out to them on your own. This will give you an idea of what questions to ask and what to look for when meeting with potential dog owners. This means they should be taking them for yearly check-ups and vaccines, grooming them regularly, and feeding them high-quality dog food that meets all their nutritional needs. The best place to get your dog is from a breeder who has an established relationship with a veterinarian they use on a regular basis. A good professional will be able to answer any questions you have about taking care of your dog and what it takes to keep them healthy throughout its life. Look Out for The Signs of An Unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in New Jersey Unfortunately, not all breeders are ethical and some may try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge or willingness to ask the right questions. There are plenty of them out there, you just need to be patient and do your research. This can include anything from congenital defects to health issues that may arise as the dog gets older. This will prevent them from getting out and exploring on their own. A Word on Crate Training You may want to consider crate training as your German Shepherd pup gets older as it can be a very effective tool for potty training and teaching them their boundaries. However, if not used properly, this method could actually cause more harm than good. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Website: Alkarah German Shepherds 3. Vogelhaus German Shepherds Vogelhaus German is another German shepherd breeder which is located in New Jersey, With over 14 years of experience in the veterinary industry, both general practice and emergency and critical care medicine they know very well about the health of the puppies and pay special attention to it. As a German shepherd breeder, it is my aim to provide my clients with dogs who can be active members of the family, team members, and best friends. These dogs must be stable mentally and physically as well. All their German shepherd puppies are free from genetic diseases and come with a 2-year health warranty that you can count on. If you want to know more about that breeder check out their Website. They are also great for protecting your home and loved ones because they have a strong protective instinct. We will discuss four things you should look for when choosing a breeder so that you can find the perfect pup for you! Do a lot of research: It is important to do your proper research before choosing a German Shepherd breeder. If you want the best possible puppy. Always Buy from a Reputable Breeder: Buy from a reputable breeder that has been breeding German Shepherd breed for a while. Remember, if they are not a member of the national kennel club or one of its regional affiliates, they are not reputable. Health Checks: Reputable German Shepherd Breeders always ensure that their pups healthy and free from genetic diseases. They should be able to provide you with all the health clearances for both of their parents. Hip and elbow clearances done by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The price can vary depending on where you buy them and how much of a special offer the breeder is offering for their pup! The cost of a German Shepherd puppy can be expensive, For many things; but it is worth every penny. They also have unique features that set them apart from other breeds like size or personality. If you know any great German Shepherd breeder who lives in New Jersey, please let us know in the comments below. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in New Jersey? It really helps others who are looking for German Shepherd puppies in New Jersey. If you are looking for the best German Shepherd Breeders in New Jersey, you can consider one of these breeders. Post navigation. Darya is a deep Rich black and Red that is very social with people and animals. Darya is Excellent in large crowds and very alert to her surroundings. Check out her certified pedigree. Mash is absolutely beautiful with her thick bone structure and her willingness to please. Mash is energetic in all that she does, especially when you see her during her protection work. Mash is extremely social; excellent with kids. Mash has been raised in a home with kids. She easily handles going thru stores or being at your office. Mash is currently trained at the Body Guard Level. Mash is excelling towards The Executive Family Protector. He is very social and a complete gentleman with people, kids and other dogs. He is Excelent in the house travels Great. His obedience is solid with Great recalls. His protection is Powerful just like him. Patton is the Ultimate K9, your first and last line of Defense!! Rea has great nerves and strength, she excels in all that she does. Rea is very social, excellent with kids, great in large crowds and with other pets. Rea will make a Great family Guardian. For more information please contact Bobby at or bobby metrok9. Bruno is extremely social and has been well socialized with children and other pets. Bruno has been raised in a very busy home that is on-the-go all the time with carpooling and going to practices. He rides great in the car and is a perfect gentleman. Bruno is currently being trained to a level 1 and is excelling in all aspects. His obedience is coming Strong and attentive, his bite work is confident with full grips in his bites. Warrior is very social Good with kids and other pets. His obedience is very happy and energetic always willing to please. When working him in Bite work his Bark is very strong and deep with a bite that backs it up being always full and Strong. Warrior has a strong demeanor and structure, people always ask before approaching, but once you give him the OK command He accepts anyone. Warrior will make the ultimate Family Protector and the sky is the limit for his training. Call Bobby at or email at bobby metrok9. Xamu can keep competing in the Sport or be your Executive K9, to Protect your family and home. Xamu obedience is energetic while his Protection is powerful with full grips. Xamu has great nerves, he is very social with people and kids, also very good with other dogs. Xamu presence alone will intimidate any intruder or deter the unwanted guest. He is the complete package!!! Champ can keep competing in the Sport or be your Executive K9, to Protect your family and home. Champs obedience is energetic while his Protection is powerful with full grips. Champ has great nerves, he is very social with people and kids, also very good with other dogs. Champs presence alone will intimidate any intruder or deter the unwanted guest. Please contact Bobby for more information. Check out his pedigree. Prince is a Son of Gary Vom Huhngrab. He is the the total package weather you are looking for a top Competitor, Looking to turn your Breeding program up or looking for that high Executive K9 to Protect your estate and Family. Prince has nervous of Steel Great with kids and other pets, excellent in any situation, his appearance alone will stop anyone in there tracks before it escalates, But if need be Prince will protect till the end. Click below for certified pedigree. Contact Bobby for more information. Please contact Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. Lulu is very well mannered and social, he is Good in crowds and loves to work. Lulu has a Great Obedience with excellent drives who is always willing to please his handler. Lulu has a full mouth Grip in his bite work and is extremely calm and confident. Lulu is currently on the path of getting his Schutzhund BH and 1, but is also doing bite suite work with Multiple attackers. Lulu with all his drives, temperament and willingness, will make the Ultimate K9 partner or The President Family Protector for your home and family. For more info please call Bobby or email bobby metrok9. He is crate trained house broken, has basic and Advanced obedience and protection. Max is very social, gentle with kids, and excellent with other animals. Max has lived in a home and has traveled extensively in cars, busses, trains and even boats. He easily handles going thru stores or being at your office. Max already went thru and passed his AKC puppy S. Max can be brought to you with one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course. Prices vary depending on location. For any other questions please call Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. You can check out her daughter Reagan from the last litter, also on our YouTube channel you can see her son Duke. Taylor is also perfectly mannered and excellent with kids and other animals. If there are any other questions please call Bobby at .He is Superior in every way from his beautiful black and Red coat to his heavy bone structure. Dillinger is very social with everyone from little kids to visiting people at the local nursing home, he loves the attention. Dillinger will make the ultimate Family Protector and the sky is the limit for his training. Dillinger can be brought to you by one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course, Prices vary depending on location. Lucas is all business and needs time to warm up to you but after that he is very loving and willing to do what ever you want. Lucas would do excellent guarding your yard or building, he would also be an Extreme personal protection K9, He would without a doubt take a bullet for his owners. Lucas is clean in a house and crates up easily , he has basic obedience and personal protection. For more information call Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. Thena is a lot of fun to work with always having a positive and willing attitude. Thena is very social and loving, excellent with kids. Thena is has everything it takes to be your next family Protector. Thena is AKC registered. If you have any other questions please, call Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. Sarabie was used in are breeding program, she has raised 2 litters. Sarabie was raised I n a home with little kids and a male Shepherd. She shows all the perfect drives and manners, that you would look for in a your perfect Family protector. Sarabie is very sweet and easily handled. Please call Bobby at or email; bobby metrok9. He is Superior in every way from his beautiful coat to his heavy bone structure. Axel is very social with everyone from little kids to visiting people at the local nursing home, he loves the attention. Axels obedience and protection is strong and very loyal to the handler, with his strong demeanor and structure people always ask before approaching, but once you give him the OK command He accepts anyone. Axel will make the ultimate Family Protector and the sky is the limit for his training. Axel can be brought to you by one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course, Prices vary depending on location. Larro can keep competing in the Sport or be your Executive K9, to Protect your family and home. Larro has great nerves, he is very social with people and kids, also very good with female dogs. Gynna is very social excellent with people and kids, stable nervous, nothing startles her. She is sweet, lovable but always keeping an eye on her surroundings. Call Bobby for more information. Reagan Reagan is a year old Black Sable female with red under coat. She is absolutely beautiful with her thick bone structure and her beautiful head. Reagan is commonly mistaken for a male, especially when you see her during her protection work. Reagan is extremely social; excellent with kids and all dogs. Reagan has been raised in a home and has traveled extensively in cars, busses, trains and even boats. Reagan is currently trained at the Executive Family Protector level with a few extra skillsets. Reagan is excelling towards The Presidential Family Protector. Reagan is also going for her pet therapy and AKC Good citizenship certificates. Reagan can be brought to you with one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course. Bama has been raised in a home which has been on-the-go with a carpooling to all practices. Bama is currently with one of our top trainers at college. He is living off campus in a frat house and keeps a level head with all the commotion that goes on in that busy house. Bama is trained to a level 1 at this current time but is excelling towards his level 2 degree. Bama can be brought to you with one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course. Please call Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. He is big boned and at 16 weeks weighed in at a whopping 46lbs. Jersey is well mannered crate trained, house broken and rides excellent in the car. Jersey is very social, good with kids and other dogs. Jersey has all his shots and is AKC registered. If you have have any other questions or would like to leave a deposit call Bobby at or email bobby metrok9. Koba Koba is a beautiful Black sable he is crate trained and has basic obedience and manners. Koba is also started in personal protection. There are many option moving forward with Koba we are moving forward with his training and are goals going forward will be the Presidential Executive Family Protector. Koba is breed from Storm and Clyde. Check out their siblings from the previous litter, Duke and Reagan. Koba has all his shots and is AKC registered. If you have any other questions or would like to leave a deposit call Bobby or email bobby metrok9. Leona is crate trained house broken, has her basic obedience and the start of protection work. Leona is very social, gentle with kids, and excellent with other animals. Leona has lived in a home and has traveled extensively in cars, busses, trains and even boats. Leona already went thru and passed her AKC puppy S. Leona can be brought to you with one of our master trainers for a 3 day training course. Barca excels in everything she does from her explicit manners to excelling in her obedience and the start of her protection. Barca is excellent with kids, there is NO limits to what she can do. Call or email Bobby , bobby metrok9. Thunder is a very social and is excellent with kids and other dogs. Her playful disposition makes for a great babysitter, while her calming demeanor will keep everyone at ease knowing she is part of the family. Thunder is currently trained to a level 1 and is going strong towards the next levels. Her positive attitude and her willingness to please will make her a great addition to a family on-the-go. Thunder can be delivered to you by one of our master trainers for a nominal fee. Price varies depending on location. For any other questions please call Bobby at or email; bobby metrok9. Bahus is very social with people , kids and other dogs, Bahus does excellent in large crowds and travels great. Please contact Bobby at or bobby metrok9. Check out Bahus pedigree here. Additional Services Offered.

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