black and tan labrador puppies for sale

black and tan labrador puppies for sale

The Teddy Bear English Goldendoodle, of course! Life Through The Lens Check out our photo and video galleries as well. We have a professional in-house media team that loves our Goldendoodles, and it shows in their great work. They endear themselves to everyone they meet with their friendly, intelligent, and accepting nature. They are usually highly affectionate, gentle, and patient. Teddy Bear English Goldendoodles make excellent family companions. They have a playful side and can be mischievous if the mood hits. They are loyal, and with proper reward-based training, can be highly obedient. Improper training, however, such as harsh corrections, can damage their confidence. Allergy-Friendly Teddy Bear English Goldendoodles that are a first-generation cross exhibit hybrid vigor, they are generally healthier than their purebred parents. This is a phenomenon in animal breeding, referring to the fact that the first cross between two unrelated purebred lines is healthier and grows better than either parent line. The other generations still exhibit hybrid vigor, but not as strong as the first generation. As a hybrid cross, they grow healthier and live longer than either parent line. The only genetic diseases they can be prone to would be those shared by both the English Golden Retriever and the Standard Poodle. No major concerns. Minor Concerns. Their life expectancy years. We absolutely love our sweet little Teddy Bear English Goldendoodles. We are confident that you will love them just as much as we do. They are social dogs, friendly towards children, other dogs and pets, and comfortable around strangers. Their intelligence, eagerness to please, and love of learning make them very easy to train. Guaranteed Health Our parent dogs are from some of the best bloodlines, with many champions in their history. We do health screenings on our parents prior to breeding to ensure that we are producing the healthiest puppies. Our puppies have current medical records and come with a state-certified Health Certificate. All puppies are well on their way to being crate trained when they go home and have all been well socialized with children. All puppies are child-tested and mother-approved. Hybrid Vigor Teddy Bear English Goldendoodles that are a first-generation cross exhibit hybrid vigor, they are generally healthier than their purebred parents. The only genetic diseases they can be prone to would be those shared by both the Golden Retriever and the Standard Poodle. No Major Concerns. Ready to Adopt? Read hundreds of reviews on Google and Facebook Sandy Peters and her family are a truly unique and amazing experience.We have had a fabulous experience choosing a puppy from Sandy. We were looking for a family dog but also, as a physical therapist, I really wanted a dog with a therapy dog temperament. She does an outstanding job breeding and nurturing these puppies!! The early neurological stimulation and service dog protocols make a huge difference for these pups. Her attention to detail and her patience with me were above and beyond. An amazing experience from start to finish.Working with Sandy and her family has been an amazing experience from start to finish. She is so responsive, knowledgeable and accessible. We got to be a part of the entire process and felt we really knew our pup before we even met her. I learned so many tips watching the live stream videos, was provided a puppy schedule and product recommendations, and any questions I had were quickly answered. I know for a fact very few breeders are as thorough and experienced as Sandy. I literally cannot find accurate words to describe how amazing Sandy.I literally cannot find accurate words to describe how amazing Sandy, her family, and her puppies are. We brought our beautiful Scarlett home today and she is relaxed, has eaten, toileted and slept like a champ. Sandy breeds these puppies with integrity, decades of obvious experience, kindness and a true love for what she does. There were 25 puppies to choose from and it was hard to choose because all of them had amazing personalities and temperaments. The fact that Scarlett came home crate trained was an unbelievable bonus for us and hard to find with breeders! If you are considering purchasing a Goldendoodle and are concerned about finding a top of the line breeder, your search is over. Put your deposit down today! Featured photos. 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. Vocality level 2 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament As a crossbreed, it is hard to say for sure which behavioral and personality traits each Doodle will possess. Overall, pet parents report that Goldendoodles are friendly family dogs who do well with children and other pets. Good puppy socialization is key to their development as a well-rounded adult dog. They have an average to high energy level and require roughly minutes of exercise daily. Due to their loyal, people-pleasing nature, Goldendoodles can be easy to train, and if done properly with positive reinforcement, can be extremely obedient pets. They prefer room to run around, so would thrive with a fenced yard. They may not be the greatest choice for apartment dwellers, unless you are big on daily outdoor exercise. Upkeep With an average-to-high energy level, Goldendoodles do best with more active families who can dedicate time to playing games with them. They thrive on socialization and playtime with other dogs to help to burn their energy. Mental stimulation in the form of agility or ongoing training will help keep their adventurous spirit content. If not properly occupied, they can sometimes become destructive -- another reason why they might not be the best match for a small apartment. Goldendoodles have a double coated fur that can be quite dense. Some have fur that can be left in its natural state but you should still expect to brush it out roughly once per week. Others may have fur that will require more upkeep, including professional grooming every weeks the more dense the fur, the more it will trap dirt. Otherwise, bathe your Goldendoodle as needed, brush teeth regularly, and trim nails times per month. Be sure to check and clean their ears to remove any buildup and avoid infections! The mix of the two did not appear in America until the s, but has been gaining popularity as people value a type of dog that could possess the low dander levels of a Poodle and the intelligence and happy personality of a Golden Retriever. The Goldendoodle was originally offered as a larger alternative to the Cockapoo, one of the early intentional crossbreeds. Because Goldendoodles are so popular, they certainly can be found for adoption in animal shelters and Doodle-specific rescues. If sharing your home with a Doodle is your dream, be sure to consider adoption! Related Content. We are Cindy and Jeff Suit, and we strive to produce puppies with the very best temperaments and personalities, and the health and overall condition of our Goldendoodles are a top priority. All of our puppies come with a two-year health guarantee, have been vet-checked, have received their first shots and have been wormed on a regular basis. The care we take in breeding to create the best puppies is matched by the thorough socialization we give them after they are born. After more than two decades of producing exceptional puppies, our reputation speaks clearly about our breeding methods, the level of care we provide and, most importantly, the great love we have for these wonderfully sensitive and intelligent dogs. We take great care in matching you with the right puppy. So, if you would like more information about our puppies, please fill out the puppy application on our website. We will call you to discuss your preferences and our available litters. Available Goldendoodle Puppies The health, beauty and temperament of a Blue Ridge Goldendoodle puppy is second-to-none. This page features the stunning selection of pups we currently have available. Learn More Meet Our Dogs The secret to continually producing great puppies is to always use the very best breeding pairs. We carefully select our sires and dams for health, temperament, beauty, size and coat type. Visit this page to learn more about the exceptional dogs we use to create our second-to-none Blue Ridge Goldendoodle Puppies. They are up-to-date on shots and have been wormed regularly and thoroughly checked by our vet. We send a detailed vet record with every one. Each puppy also comes with a blanket or toy that was played with and rubbed on the mom and the siblings. This helps in the transition from our home to yours. We also test them for problems with the elbows and heart, check for patella luxation and make sure that their eyes are cleared for Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA , a degenerative vision disorder. In addition to these checks, our breeding dogs are DNA tested for a battery of genetic diseases. Blue Ridge Goldendoodles is a member and recommended breeder at Goldendoodles. About Goldendoodle Puppies Goldendoodles are the result of calculated crossbreeding between pedigreed Golden Retrievers and any of the three officially recognized Poodle varieties standard, miniature and toy. Exceptional breeders like Blue Ridge Goldendoodles are able to produce puppies with the best attributes of each lineage — physical beauty, loving and loyal personalities, high intelligence, a strong desire to please and a size range that suits apartment dwelling, farm living and everything in between. Their patience and gentle spirit make Goldendoodles especially good with small children. If acquiring a Goldendoodle is the right choice for you or your family, start by locating a top-quality breeder. All puppies should be examined and okayed, too. These exams are standard operating procedure at Blue Ridge Goldendoodle Puppies. No, all dogs shed a little, that is nature. There is low shedders and high shedders. A low shedder would have more texture of the poodle coat. Where as a high shedder would have the lab texture. Most Goldendoodles are low shedders. What is the main difference between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles? Cindy Suit T What is the main difference between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles? The differences between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles depends mostly on the breeding stock chosen for the parents. With that being said, there really is no difference between our Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. Most people cannot tell the difference between the two breeds. Please feel free to look at my Doodle Hall of Fame and see if you can tell the difference. Are Goldendoodles easy to potty train? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles easy to potty train? Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and motivated to please, this makes them outstanding pupils for housebreaking, crate training, learning tricks and more. What is the difference between and F1 and F1B? It depends what genes they inherit. What is an F2? Cindy Suit T What is an F2? In genetics, an F2 means a second generation cross, or a cross that is 2 generations away from the original parent breeds. There are 2 ways to get to the second generation. The second way is described above, as an F1B. So breeding an F1 Labradoodle or Goldendoodle back to a Poodle to get an F1B, is resulting in a second generation of the hybrid. Are Goldendoodles appropriate for apartment living? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles appropriate for apartment living? Yes, Goldendoodles are a very adaptable breed that can thrive in all residential settings. All they need is proper love and care from you to flourish. Plus, potential owners have the option of choosing a standard, mini, toy or teacup Goldendoodle based on the ideal size fit for their living conditions. While this is an impossible question to answer with any specificity, the average lifespan of a Goldendoodle is calculated to be between 10 and 15 years. Do Goldendoodles get attached to one person? Cindy Suit T Do Goldendoodles get attached to one person? Goldendoodles are extremely affectionate dogs who love to give and receive outward signs of love. They have the propensity to become more attached to one person, but their drive for attention prevents them from limiting their interactions in this way. To the dog, anyone willing to spend a few minutes giving a belly rub is worth an abundance of licking. Are Goldendoodles lap dogs? Cindy Suit T Are Goldendoodles lap dogs? Whether your canine companion is a five-pound teacup or a pound standard, they will see themselves as equally small and act accordingly. If that sounds the least unpleasant, know that new owners quickly get used to having their entire laps swallowed and grow to love these times of bonding. Still have more questions about Goldendoodles? Check out our reference pages below:.

These desirable qualities are a result of meticulous breeding practices and superior genetics. Ritterhund K9s are specifically bred for stability and soundness. Our German Shepherds exemplify the values of Obedience, Protection, and Service, making them exceptional ambassadors. While they possess strength, endurance, and speed, they are also affectionate and devoted family companions. These are the dogs you can rely on to safeguard your home and watch over your loved ones when you're away. German Shepherds view their family as their "pack" and are instinctively protective. They can cuddle with your toddler and accompany your child to the school bus, but should any threat arise, their strength and fierceness will manifest as an unstoppable force. When you become part of the Ritterhund Family, you become a lifelong member. We take great pride in our breeding program and are committed to surpassing expectations for both our K9s and customers. If you are fortunate enough to own a German Shepherd with these genetics, then you understand the difference in these K9s. Bomber is an absolute legend in the K9 Community. These puppies will be large, have high and medium drives, and be steady-tempered. We put countless hours into raising them with the proper foundation they need. Structural balance and harmony that you will only find in this genetic combination we have in this breeding. We are very selective in the homes in which our puppies are placed. A family who is educated on the breed, lives an active lifestyle, and who are willing and able to put the time and effort into properly raising their puppy. We are located near the Central Coast of California. We hand deliver our puppies to their new owners if within reasonable driving distance for no charge. Air in-cabin flight nanny and Ground transport are available for an additional charge for customers located out of the surrounding areas or state. We highly recommend placing a deposit early as our puppies do go quickly. Please download the puppy application or contact us via email or text for details. Please contact us for puppy prices. But once your puppy is born and you have accepted an alphabet puppy litter and choose to back out, your deposit is subject to forfeit. Birth to weaning so if you change your mind after confirming, you are reducing the time the next family has to also prepare for their new puppy. No restrictions on AKC full registration and full breeding rights given on your haus von Wiese puppy. Final payment is due at time of puppy pick up or after delivery arrangements are scheduled, 2 days prior to flight. No additional Charge for puppy pick up in Huntersville NC. September Breeding We had a successful breeding between Lotte and Gringo. We expect our "B" litter to arrive in early November, with take home after 8 weeks of nursing taking us through New Years .The breeding took place but we need a month for the puppies to grow in utero before our vet can confirm the pregnancy. Any overflow will roll over to our Spring Cersei long coat dam litter. Paska is undoubtedly one of the most well known working dog Black German Shepherds of all time. Just as strategically as horses are bred to increase positive attributes, we are breeding in a similar style. Our goal is to save Paska's heritage and continue to produce puppies containing his well balanced temperament, drive and strong working ability. Bomber carries some of the same impressive attributes as Paska and is the product of highly accomplished and highly decorated shepherds in Germany. It is our goal to preserve both bloodlines while integrating fresh new lines from Germany to be sure of safe breeding outcome. Along with 7-week old personality and drive level testing on each puppy, we strive to match each puppy with it's family to achieve long-term fit and family harmony. Our breeding pairs are selected with great health, hips and elbows from multi generational excellence of their lineage. Scroll below to our breeding dogs and click on their Pedigeree Link to view their impressive German pedigree. Thank you to the families that are giving loving new homes to our precious black German Shepherd puppies! Please call or text to reserve your puppy. Nolan was a magnificent 4 time competitor of the German Bundesseiger. You don't want to miss this stunner! Winn-Dixie is a fabulous mix of both Unkas and Nolan. V Paska vom Salztalblick. We are hapy to include Aurora and her freshness to our breeding program. Basia is an incredible product of our exclusive breeding program from the flawless Paska bloodline. Lotte and her parents have all tested the highest for Hip and Elbow tests in Germany, A normal. Mazikeen joined us from German European Import parents. Mazikeen's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. Mazikeen has a sweet natured and pleasing personality who produces family companion pups. Cersei's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. We are proud and excited for her to join our home and our breeding program. Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. Rest assured when purchasing a dog from us that years of breeding and training experience have gone into the development and selection of your German shepherd dog or puppy. Black, Dark Sables, as well as Red and Black German shepherd male and female puppies are available by reservation. Martin Z. Riverside is over an hour drive from me in the valley, but; the puppies that come from the breeder are worth the drive and more! My all black German Shepard "Sirius" is an absolute dream! The breeder and his family truly care for the dogs and their upbringing. Arsalaan constantly checks in to see how me and Sirius are doing and is there to answer any questions you may have. Whether it's your first dog or not give him a call! He'll walk you through the steps and be there with you for guidance. Gavin U. Arsalaan and his family are very kind, caring breeders! When I first reached out to him, he was very quick with a response and easy to communicate with. He truly takes great pride in his pups and is very helpful to answer any questions that may arise. I brought Bear home with me on Dec 16 and he was nice, clean, and healthy upon pick up. Arsalaan provided Bear's list of shots as well as his pedigree and some other additional documents. You will not be disappointed working with him, highly recommend him and his family to help you bring home your newest family member! Mitchell K. Very responsible breeder, I came from Arizona and couldn't be happier. Very helpful before and after receiving my puppy. I highly recommended. Jimmy M. I call Arsalaan whenever I have questions and he is always very helpful with training tips and advice. I get a lot compliments on her looks. Elvia B. I am so grateful for all of the help I got from Arsalaan, and we also appreciate him following up on our puppy "Rexie". He's given us great advice even before we decided to get Rexie. Although he's up north about a 90 minute drive from us, it was definitely worth it. He kept our puppy even after her 8 weeks we couldn't bring her home because it was a Christmas gift. When I took Rexie to her first vet visit the vet said " this breeder definitely knows what he's doing ". Rexie came with up to date vaccinations and AKC forms paid for just have to finish writing them up. Our new family member is a happy and healthy puppy! Plus she sleeps through the night quietly from day one. Amazing Thank you Arsalaan. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. A little about us North Mountain Kennels is proud to offer quality German Shepherd puppies for sale, bred from some of the best sires and dams in the world. From meticulously bred service dogs to family pets, North Mountain Kennels has the perfect German Shepherd puppy for you. About Our Breeder Audrey is not just your average dog trainer. She is highly educated in all things K9. She has obtained 2 Masters Degrees from London Hanover University College of Zoological Studies with a concentration in canine behavior from a neurological perspective. This allows her to learn that what we "see" as the outward behavior and how it begins on a cellular level in brain. Truly understanding at an in-depth level of the animal that many "Trainers" do not understand or have any desire to understand what creates behavior and where it begins in the brain. Knowledge is power and with this knowledge Audrey Estep carefully crafts training plans developed for each puppy in training rather the a cookie cutter approach to all dogs. My services are designed with you and your pet in mind, and I believe in working as much with you as with your pet. Happy Healthy Bloodlines Great genetics make for a confident well rounded puppy that is suitable for companion, sport, IPO, or police K9. However, not all great quality breeding stock are titled European German Shepherd dogs. I'm selecting dogs with a history of producing consistent sound and healthy offspring. Not all dogs in my program have an OFA score on hips and elbows. My dogs generally have a European score on hips and elbows since they are tested prior to import. Furever Friends My puppy program revolves around creating the most sound animal for whatever your purpose is from birth. Puppies are exposed to a number of environmental obstacles, smells, sounds and sights to ensure confidence and sociability. Our Puppies All puppies are vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, micro chipped and come with AKC papers to register you puppy. What our customers have to say about North Mountain Kennels Don't just take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about us, our puppies, and the programs we offer! Proven Results.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Located on a 40 acre farm east of Denver, Colorado we have plenty of space for our dogs to run around and get exercise. Unlike typical breeders we do not confine our golden retrievers to small kennels, but instead let them run and play as much as their hearts desire. Health Guarantee To ensure the health of our golden retrievers we make sure they are always up-to-date on: Health Checkups Shots Health Screenings - OFA certification for hips, elbows, and thyroids We also focus on the mental health of our dogs by keeping them happy interacting with people and other dogs on a daily basis. This ensures excellent temperaments, great dispositions, and that they are extremely well mannered. Before they are sent to their new homes each puppy gets a health checkup from the vet and their first round of shots. We also offer to microchip your puppy when you pick them up to keep them safe. In addition to all of this, we offer a health guarantee protecting against many hereditary problems. At birth: We help the mama clean the puppies so they are introduced to human scent from birth. Birth - 4 weeks old: We bottle feed the puppies in supplement to their mother's milk to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition. Handled from birth to get used to human scent Free time outside their kennel so they can explore their surroundings. Introduced to our pet cat and other dogs to become comfortable around all kinds of animals. All of the things mentioned above are part of how we ensure that our puppies are happy, healthy, and playful when they are ready to go to their forever homes. To see information about available golden retriever puppies and to see pictures from past litters click the links below. Congratulations to Striker for being in the top ten historical producing sires again in .Congratulations to Amos for being in the top ten current producing sires for the fourth year in .Congratulation to Ruger for being in the top ten current producing sires for the first year in .Our dogs live with us on a five acre ranch. A canal runs through it and they enjoy running and swimming for plenty of exercise. They also enjoy getting in our truck and going to a near by pond or river for a few marks on water or land as part of their training process. They have proved to be very eager retrievers and excel in the hunting field. They make great hunters along with being excellent companions and family pets! Our professional breeding program of golden retriever puppies consists of over 28 years of intensive work to provide top quality puppies. They are bred for temperament, standards of the breed, and we strive for top quality and beautiful puppies! Our golden retriever pups are guaranteed for two years for eyes, hips, elbows and heart with a written guarantee! All our breeding dogs are cleared before we breed them. We also provide support to our puppy buyers and general advice! It is a big responsibility and commitment in raising a golden retriever pup but it is a wonderful experience! When our girls were small, we got our first golden. He soon became so much a part of our family! He was an excellent hunter and we didn't really have to train him. He had a lot of natural ability, was a great companion, hunter, obedience and all around kind of a dog. We were hooked on Golden Retrievers after owning this one. We have since had several and have found the breed to be exceptional. Since when we bred our first litter, we have learned as much as possible about breeding and training them. Hunter's Goldstrike Golden Retrievers has a goal to strive for good breeding practices along with clearances, appearances, and temperament. We also belong to the Platte Valley Hunting retriever club and have served on the board for many years in various offices. This is a huge accomplishment for him. We plan to do some Striker pups in the future as we have some frozen semen on him. Hunter's Goldstrike Golden Retrievers thanks you for looking at our website! Best Golden Retriever Breeder in Colorado? Well, we will let you be the judge, but we love our dogs like family and treat them as such. We do not over breed our dogs or participate in any crossbreeding tactics or exotic dog types. We are Golden Retriever lovers, enthusiasts, and protectors. Every dog is like family to us. While we are happy to entrust our puppies to loving families, we do have a puppy acquisition process in order to ensure our high quality dogs are delivered to warm homes that are able to care for our dogs properly. Every puppy we sell is depending on us to properly screen new owners, so please understand we take this seriously. This also protects your interests and maintains high standards for you as well. All puppies MUST be picked up in person. No exceptions. Golden Retriever Lovers Welcome! If you have a wonderful home for one of our puppies, we would love to hear from you. Whether you want a family retriever or a specialty dog for hunting, we will help find the exact fit for you. Many times there is a waiting list so apply early! If you are just getting started and would like to discuss our process, we are also eager to hear from you. Contact Us Today! Look at the current breedings or litters we have or are upcoming and fill out our contact form specifying what breeding you are interested in. Before puppies are born we only take deposits on the first pick, second, and possibly third picks on both males and females. After puppies are born and all spots are filled you will be told what pick you have. Get ready to welcome a lovely puppy that will bring all the love and affection. Tucker is now 3 born and is my best companion. Tucker is the quintessential Golden, beautiful, faithful, active, family-oriented, and geez I cannot come up with enough good things to say. Tucker is my soulmate. He makes me smile every day. If I feel bad he cares and comes to comfort me. He is so wonderful. My parents adopted another Slater Creek Golden, different parents, and she is phenomenal. So beautiful and sweet. Slater Creek Goldens are all love, loyalty and so much fun. Linda — you and your pups are my favorite ppl! Linda you will be in my heart forever.

F1 Goldendoodle What is an English Goldendoodle? They are very loving and friendly dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners. They are highly intelligent, very easy to train, and thrive on social interaction. As a result, English Goldendoodles make an excellent service or therapy dog. The English Goldendoodle is also considered a low to non-shedding breed, which makes them ideal for owners with allergies. English Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors. Due to the English Golden retriever's light coloring, the signature English cream Goldendoodle and white Goldendoodle tends to be the most common. However, English Goldendoodles can also come in tan, red, apricot, chocolate or even black depending on the color of the Poodle. Most of our Goldendoodle puppies are of the white, cream, tan, or apricot variety. We encourage you to learn more about English Goldendoodles at the link below. First and foremost, the health and happiness of our dams and their puppies is our top priority. Our English Golden Retrievers are our pets first, and live and sleep inside the comforts of our home. We are not a large kennel facility or puppy mill and are strong advocates against such practices. Our dogs give birth in in comfortable, temperature controlled conditions in our home. Each of our parents pass a full vet administered health exam prior to breeding. We interact with each of the Goldendoodle puppies daily. We work on socializing them through human touch, and introduce them to crate training prior to going home with you. All Goldendoodle puppies are given a full vet administered health exam prior to going home. Our puppies possess loving and loyal dispositions. The health and condition of our puppies are of utmost importance. Our puppies are frequently wormed, vet checked, and come with a 2-year health guarantee. Goldendoodles and are an intelligent and obedient family companion. They benefit from lots of family time. Our puppies are friendly towards children, other dogs and pets, and easy with strangers. Goldendoodles are extremely social dogs, happiest when they are with people. Their intelligence, eagerness to please, and love of learning make them very easy to train. Goldendoodle puppies learn quickly and do well with positive reinforcement training. Kings River Doodles has a reputation for producing beautiful, top quality Goldendoodles that are smart, healthy, happy, well tempered, gentle and extremely laid-back. We realize that many people these days are allergic to dogs and our goal is to produce dogs for people with dog allergies. People with allergies are actually allergic to the dander, not the hair. Kings River Doodles prides itself on paring up puppies with all issues in mind, allergies, lifestyle, and activates for each client on a personal level. As Goldendoodle breeders, we confirm that this breed has outstanding qualities that are enjoyed by many types of people. The Goldendoodle puppies for sale are low to non-shedding, low allergenic and very intelligent. Our Goldendoodles make superior companions as well as great dogs for children. Their sincere expressions and attitudes are not matched by any other breed. They have the intelligence, non-shedding, and low allergenic properties of a Standard Poodle. They have the family oriented, friendly, laid-back personality of the Golden Retriever. Goldendoodles make great therapy dogs and wonderful family pets! We know the importance of good health for all of our Goldendoodle puppies and dogs that are for sale. Certification of hips, eyes, etc. Puppies will be sold to forever homes only. Shipping is available at buyers expense; however, no puppy will be shipped before the age of 8 weeks. We have the perfect family companion for you. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Laramie Wyoming and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

We are a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in quality, intelligent dogs with proven superior genetics. We sell German Shepherd puppies that are the perfect choice for professionals and families. We focus on producing a stable, protective line of German Shepherds that you can trust with your children. Sweet tempered companions that will protect your family and property Our German Shepherds have incredible pedigrees and we carefully choose only the best genetics to constantly improve upon the German Shepherd bloodline. We have German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, but arrangements can be made to sell a puppy to any state within the 48 contiguous states. We are always happy to talk or visit with you and would love to show you our beautiful German Shepherds. Our German Shepherd Dogs can be used for search and rescue, tracking, guarding, guide dogs for the blind or physically disabled, police work, show and of course a family pet. Our dogs are well socialized with children and other pets. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. Our high quality puppies are excellent with children and very easy to train. We have carefully selected world class German Shepherds with proven superior genetics. Our puppies have the potential to become champions in the show ring and your family hero. The West German bloodlines are bred to have great personalities and superb temperaments. They go through extensive training and rigorous testing to earn their titles. The West German Shepherd bloodlines are not just tested on their beauty and showmanship, but also on their ability to perform difficult tasks that require a high level of intelligence, motivation and desire to please their master. As a German Shepherd Breeder, it is our desire to provide you with an exceptional puppy that can bring you the same joy that ours have brought to our family. Our German Shepherds are the perfect choice for personal protection and are great companions for all ages. Testimonials: "Hi. He blended right into our family and we don't remember life before him. His temperament and intelligence are above average. At the vet I heard the vet and techs in the back gushing over how behaved he was and they sent me home with extra goodies for him hehe. He's already house trained. I've already been able to teach him two commands "here" and "place". He's also the best snuggler and is sooo very patient and forgiving with my tornado of a two year old son. He is the best dog I've had in my entire life and love him to the moon. I can't wait until he's old enough to start going on adventures with us. Thank ya'll for a wonderful dog! We get soooo much attention with her! We've had people literally pull off the road just to comment on her! Lots of people asking if we are going to breed her! We are meeting with someone on Friday to evaluate her for protection training. She's my girl and she knows her job well! Btw, people always ask me where I got her.I tell them all about you guys! Here are pictures of Liberty sunbathing with her sister, Queen Bitsy! She loves her boy! Our dogs are hand picked from top German breeders and are from world class West German bloodlines. We are conveniently located 40 miles from Ft. Worth and approximately one hour from Dallas TX. We are proud of our Kaiser facility and all of our outstanding dogs. Each of them is a special part of our family. It takes a great deal of experience, education, and knowledge about the breed to successfully produce world class German Shepherds. My husband Paul and I work together to ensure the highest breed standards are met. Our goal is to continue to not only meet those standards but to improve the breed. They are hand picked from top German breeders and are imported. They are from top West German bloodlines. Selective breeding program to produce superior offspring. We produce a limited number of litters each year in order to personally assure the very best care possible. Healthy puppies and adult dogs is a top priority to us. Our adult dogs have been DNA tested for degenerative myelopathy. Their hips and elbows have been certified as normal. We do a great amount of education with our new puppy owners regarding GSD growth and development, health maintenance, the importance of ongoing socialization and many other important topics about the GSD breed. We make it a practice to stay in touch with our puppy owners for ongoing education and support. We love to see our pups grow into amazing adult dogs as part of a loving family home! We also have a professional trainer available. She has worked with many of our puppies and their new families with outstanding results. She is warm, patient and loves what she does. She is careful and has a loving touch for her puppies; each one captures her heart. She has been extremely helpful to us when we have not been certain about next steps for our pup. Kaiser is not a puppy factory, but a caring, loving, thoughtful, and well read about the German Shepherd breed. So grateful for Terri and Kaiser pups!

A stock image of Golden retriever puppies, none of which are green, unfortunately. In fact, it was a strange shade of green. Advertisement Justice was concerned about the color at first, however, she quickly realized the puppy was otherwise healthy, as were the eight other siblings. After a few days or weeks of licking from its mother, Mojito will be bright white, just like the rest of the litter. While extremely rare, green puppies are not as uncommon as you might think. She's been named "Verdant," and is healthy, her owners have confirmed. Biliverdin is a greenish color and can be found in bile, bruises, the placenta of dogs , and many other biological phenomena. Scientists have even found biliverdin in the shells of 6-million-year-old dinosaur eggs. On the subject of strangely colored animal babies, it crops up across the animal kingdom. Most orca calves are born with a peachy-orange coloring , instead of white. It's thought this is due to being born without a thick layer of blubber, so their blood vessels near the surface of their skin can be seen more clearly. Just like these green puppies, the color fades as they mature. The babies are nursing with the new mom, but one puppy is clearly different from the rest. A male pup with a pistachio green hue can be seen atop the pile, with the owner zooming in to give viewers a closer look. A stock photo shows golden retriever puppies. A TikTok video of nursing golden retrievers reveals that one of them is colored green, a rare occurrence. They may sound made-up, but green golden retrievers are real, although the reason they exist is pretty gross. The green coloring is caused by biliverdin, a chemical that creates bile, according to Rover. When a dog is pregnant, the hormones can cause changes in her bodily functions. This can include her poo, which can turn green because of extra biliverdin. When puppies are born, they usually pass their "meconium"—aka their first poo—within 48 hours. Occasionally, they do this while still inside the womb. If the mom dog has high levels of biliverdin and the developing puppy passes the meconium early, this can lead to high levels of bile in the birth sac. If the puppy has light-colored fur, the pigment of the bile can stain its coat, turning the animal green. This process isn't harmful to the dog, just extremely uncommon. The phenomenon is not unique to golden retrievers and can occur with any breed if the pup has light-toned fur.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Dalton Georgia and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. He had received a request from a blind woman in Hawaii whose husband was allergic to longhaired dogs. This breed has since gained worldwide popularity and remains a very sought-after breed today. This breed is the perfect mix between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever. This Labradoodle is known for having a very loving, caring, and pleasant personality. They are very smart dogs and eager to be a part of your family. They also tend to be very social and interact well children and other pets in the home. They are not aggressive dogs and have very warm and approachable demeanors. They make marvelous family pets and are known to quickly bond. Labradoodles do not shed heavy and do not require excessive brushing. Most do well with standard grooming every six to eight weeks. Making sure your Labradoodle is properly groomed will allow him to look and feel his best. Labradoodles do best with a balance of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats. This breed also tends to do well being fed twice a day with meals spaced apart every twelve hours. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The Standard Labradoodle stands between twenty-two and twenty-four inches tall. At maturity this breed weighs between fifty and sixty-five pounds. They have an average life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years. Fact: Labradoodles are a mix between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever. Fact: This breed is considered a very smart dog who trains with ease. Fact: Labradoodles have different coat types and are not known for heavy shedding. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the diseases that Labradoodles are prone to? Labradoodles are prone to health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, ear infections, and hypothyroidism. Do Labradoodles shed at all? Although Labradoodles are known as non-shedders, there are some of them who still undergo shedding, most especially the Labradors with hair coats. How should you feed your Labradoodles? But, bear in mind that however you feed your Lab, be careful not to get your Lab bloated or underfed. A Labradoodle has an average lifespan of years. Can Labs go for hunting? How big do Labs grow? The average male Lab can grow up to 22 to 24 inches while the female one can grow up to 21 to 23 inches, and both can weigh as much as 50 to 70 pounds. Is it safe to leave my Lab all alone when we are out? Labs are social dogs and they need to be around people or other dogs most of the time, hence it might not be safe to be away from your Lab for too long, to avoid behavioral problems such as depression, frustration, and unhappiness. Does gender matter when getting a Labradoodle? Not at all. Both genders of Labs make awesome family pets. You can decide to either adopt or buy any gender of your choice 9. How much do Labs puppies cost? The cost of buying Labradoodle puppies varies, depending on where you are buying from. Contact us today to learn more about the cost and availability of our Labs .When can I start training my Lab? Are you interested in purchasing a Labradoodle? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

So, whenever you visit a breeder for the first time, write down a few questions you would like to ask about the breed and the puppy. No question is too silly to ask, and there are no dumb questions! So ask as many as you can and watch how they respond. Can they answer your questions patiently? Are they able to explain things well? Are you comfortable communicating with them? Breeders who are committed to providing their puppies with loving and permanent homes will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Goldendoodle puppy sleepy in a blue blanket. Welcome Back Policy Any good breeder would be more than happy to take back the puppy if you are unable to provide them with the care and love they need due to problems such as financial or personal. Since a good breeder cares about their dog, they will have you sign a contract obligating you to return the dog if you cannot provide them with basic needs. Having learned how to find a reputable breeder, we have curated a list of some of the best Goldendoodle Breeders in Illinois to assist you in your search. Taking pride in their years of dedicated breed work, the breeder has helped hundreds of families get a Goldendoodle they will cherish their entire lives. This also ensures that the puppy is at no risk from health issues such as hip dysplasia and other inherited disease. Additionally, the breeder ensures that the puppies are socialized from day one so that they will become accustomed to human touch. Finally, ENS and other techniques are used to increase stress tolerance by stimulating the neurological system. They also provide lifetime breeder support, expert vet care, and a 2-year genetic health guarantee to put your mind at ease. Contact Details:. Tosha-female ADOPTED Reserve now to make sure you get your little goldendoodle and then contact us or schedule a paw visit to pick out your new family member today! The Goldendoodle has proven to be an excellent family dog. They're also versatile working dogs. Goldendoodles have achieved success as guide dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, and sniffer dogs one study tested their success at sniffing out peanuts in foods for owners with nut allergies. Goldendoodles have also done well in agility. The Goldendoodle is an affectionate and gentle dog that has gained popularity since he was first developed in s. He's still a young cross compared to other designer breeds, and many of today's litters are the results of first-generation breedings between Poodles and Golden Retrievers. Goldendoodles are usually highly social and get along well with everyone. They can thrive in both city and country settings, but they're not well suited to apartment living since they do better with the space provided by a fenced yard. Goldendoodles can be very easy to train and are a good match for first-time owners. They're not known to have any aggressive traits, but they do need proper socialization to avoid any shyness or fearfulness. Goldendoodles are considered to be non - to light shedders and may be a good match for people with allergies. They do require weekly or biweekly brushing, and many owners opt to have them clipped. Although Goldendoodles are a young designer breed, that hasn't stopped people from understanding their worth. They have become popular quickly, and their star is still rising. They make excellent family dogs and provide gentle, intelligent companionship throughout their lifetimes. This designer dog became popular for being hypoallergenic and no to low shedding. Those with severe allergies can benefit from the F1b mini Goldendoodle. After a puppy is reserved its is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. Learn more This well-established breeder has been operating in Central Illinois since and is now one of the biggest Goldendoodle breeders in the state. They also breed Bernedoodles. All the puppies are well-socialized and undergo extensive health tests, so you know that your puppy will come with all the health clearances you expect. Unfortunately, this breeder has a slightly higher pricing structure than many other breeders, but they do boast plenty of positive testimonials and reviews. The best puppies undergo proper health testing, and both parent dogs have rigorous health checks before they are approved as breeding animals. What Influences Goldendoodle Prices? There are a number of factors that influence the price of Goldendoodle puppies in Illinois, including: The size of the dog, when fully grown Color Generation of the puppy Coat type and likely hypoallergenic qualities The most expensive puppies tend to be those with curly coats that look like Teddy Bears since those types are usually the lightest shedders. That makes these pups extremely popular with allergy sufferers, reflecting their price. Unusual coat colors are also more expensive, especially parti, red, and merle. Regarding health testing, both parent dogs should be screened for common genetic diseases common to both breeds to reduce the chances of the puppies inheriting those problems. Size Is Important Most dog owners want a small dog, so the smaller varieties are therefore the most popular and most expensive. Unfortunately, that trend has pushed up the price of these pups. The possibility of making a quick buck has tempted backyard breeders and puppy mills to churn out multiple Mini Goldendoodles as quickly as they can. Most of the breeding dogs used by these operations are not health-checked, which has adversely affected the breed. Nothing is Guaranteed! So, you could spend a fortune on a curly-coated blue puppy only to end up with a wavy-coated white adult! Of course, every puppy is loveable and will give you just as much pleasure no matter what their color or coat type. The puppies were supposed to be bred from a purebred Poodle father and a purebred Show Cocker spaniel. The lady chose a puppy and took her home. In fact, the puppy was much larger, a totally different color, and far more demanding when it came to exercise and training than the breed she wanted. So, that could be something you want to ask about if your puppy is not an F1 generation dog. But is the advertiser genuine, or is it a backyard breeder or puppy mill? Here are a few telltale red flags to watch out for. Multiple Breeds Most genuine breeders only offer puppies of one breed. Any duplications can be a sign of a puppy mill. Remote Locations Advertisements for puppies should contain a landline telephone number, not just a mobile. Puppy mills are often hidden away in remote locations, so always make sure that the telephone number matches the area where the puppies are being kept. Copy Cats Backyard breeding operations often use the same adverts, cutting and pasting details of their puppies and even using the same text for advertising other breeds. Goldendoodle pups should be eight weeks of age before they can receive their first shots. If the advertisement tells you that the puppies are less than eight weeks of age and have been vaccinated, the seller is most likely a backyard breeder. Other Red Flags Other red flags to be aware of include: Puppies that are very cheaply priced are usually from backyard breeders or puppy mills. These businesses make their money by producing as many puppies as possible, as quickly as possible, with the idea of making the most of whatever the current trend is. Often, puppy mills expect you to meet them somewhere shady, such as at a shopping mall car park or in a gas station. Puppy farms often use photos or even videos of puppies that are not even theirs to sell as a marketing tool on their website. Furthermore, before you can be put on the waiting list, you need to be interviewed and approved by the breeder. That should indicate that your puppy will be free from any hereditary genetic health conditions that typically affect the parent breeds. Ideally, your puppy should come with vaccination paperwork, as well as proof of flea and tick prevention treatment and deworming. Always ask the breeder if you can see the mom and puppies together. You also want to check out the father so that you can assess his temperament. That report includes many puppy mills and backyard breeders that have been closed down or taken through the courts for malpractice. If you decide to try out other ethical breeders from other states and want to avoid falling into the hands of these puppy mills, you may want to pick from our list of Goldendoodle breeders from nearby places. Check these out:. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Aurora Illinois and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! A Goldendoodle puppy is a crossbreed dog breed that is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Goldendoodle puppies are known for their friendly personalities, low-shedding coats, and intelligence. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and are popular as family pets and therapy dogs. Known for their intelligence, friendliness, and loving personalities, our puppies will light up your heart with love and joy for years to come. With such high trainability traits, our adorable puppies make the perfect companion for children and families. Only requiring moderate exercise, these little furry friends make great city dogs. They are also one of the most playful Goldendoodle sizes. Families from the 4-corners of our great nation have fallen in love with this breed, and so will you. In the long list of dog breeders, you have to look for dog lovers — For nearly a decade Central Illinois Doodles has forged the path in breeding Mini Goldendoodles. Goldendoodle Traits Higher-energy, love to run and be active Excellent service dogs for those with disabilities Good with children For allergy-friendly needs, F1b puppies are optimal Standard-sized need space to stretch Mini or tiny sizes available for smaller spaces see puppies Goldendoodle Breed Classifications For dog-loving people with allergic reactions, the Goldendoodle could be the right decision for you when it comes to choosing a pet. Since the Goldendoodle came from the Poodle mixed with Golden Retriever, their coats are allergy-friendly! To give you an idea, F1b dogs are less likely to shed and more allergy-friendly because they have a significant amount of Poodle genes. Goldendoodle Puppy Personality Goldendoodle puppies are very special because their personalities are very good. The dog is known to be intelligent and affectionate. These dogs are one of the best breeds for human company and their gentle nature and high patience make them wonderful family pets. Usually the puppies are cheeky and mischievous, can sometimes be clingy and have separation anxiety, but they are rarely aggressive. Are mini Goldendoodles social creatures? Yes — as highly social dog breeds, Goldendoodles love to be surrounded by their owner or other human interactions. Goldendoodle Puppy Temperament. Welcome to Maple Valley! Looking for that perfect little furball to add to your family? Health tested parents See more details on our parents: click here 2. Birthed inside our home All the puppies are born inside our home and live in our house until weeks old. Our doggy parents are family pets and not kenneled We are committed to never becoming a large scale breeder. Our dogs are all personal pets. We founded Maple Valley in .Both of us Micah and Rose had prior experience with raising puppies. We have a private Facebook group, click here where families that have adopted puppies from us can connect and share updates as their puppies grow. We welcome questions, concerns and feedback for the entire life of your dog. If for some reason a puppy does not work out, we ask that you allow us to help in rehoming it. Meet Micah and Rose Raber. We have been providing our customers with loving healthy puppies for nearly 10 years! Every puppy is born inside our home. They receive lots of love and attention from the very beginning. We work hard to provide an outstanding adoption experience for you. As a busy family, we do ask that you have patience with us. We look forward to helping you find your next fluffy member of the family! He is a wonderful pup with so much energy and personality! He is such a goof ball, so smart, and healthy! Thank you guys so much! We are thrilled to have him as part of our family. Thank you so much for our adorable puppy! We love having a little golden doodle! She is smart, funny and adorable! She is great with our grandchildren. She loves camping and going for boat rides. She is the perfect puppy for us! Our vet commented that she could tell Charlotte came from a good breeder and we agree. Thank you! So very loving. The most playful dog, loves to cuddle and hug and kiss. Just everything about him is the sweetest! Southpaw is truly the love of my life. His fur does really well in this cold climate and barely sheds. I absolutely love my mini bernedoodle and have sent other people your way to get theirs. Thank you very much for creating such an amazing dog. She is a mini f1 with an apricot coloring. After about three weeks she was mostly potty trained with few accidents. She is very calm and loving and she gets attention wherever she goes. She loves playing with her other dog roommate and doggie friends! The process of reserving, communicating with, and picking up Paisley from the Rabers was so smooth and I recommend Maple Valley to all who ask!! And a Toy Goldendoodle was just what Luke needed. In the short 8 months that Luke got to spend with his beloved Jasper he brought him so many smiles and memories I will forever be thankful. Jasper helped Luke get through the hardest days of his life, he made him smile, laugh and the best cuddle partner there ever was. Sadly Luke was called home to heaven on July 21, .Luke was never alone with the help of Jasper, his parents Chad, Nikki and older brother Caleb. Jasper is of course still residing with Lukes parents and brother and I am still trying to figure out a way to dognapp him!! We visit them often and sweet Jasper is always the first to greet us at the door. The first photo is the day Luke was surprised with him. I just wanted to write a few lines and give you an update on our Stella Dalisha. She will be 17 weeks in two days and 20 lbs. We are just in love with her. She is exactly what our little family needed. She fit right in with her big brother and sister Titus and Margo. Her and Titus have become the best of friends and are inseparable. We all laugh at her silliness and her little facial expressions. She walks around on her hind legs begging to be picked up and carried. She loves to go for rides in the car and any squeaky toy she can find. She has one more round of puppy shots before I get her spayed. Everyone at the veterinary office thinks she is just a delight. Thank you for raising such wonderful bernedoodles. Thank you so much for our little Stella Mae. We love her so much! From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia A Goldendoodle is a mixed-breed dog, a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Poodle hybrids have become increasingly popular and it is likely that the combination of Golden Retriever and Poodle has been duplicated by breeders in various countries at different times. History The first Goldendoodles were likely due to accidental breeding between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. The Goldendoodle is usually bred to be a family companion dog. Some are bred and selected for careers in service to humans as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs and other types of assistance dogs. Many people select a Goldendoodle because they love Golden Retrievers, but would prefer a dog that sheds less hair. Some have lost their Golden Retriever or Poodle to cancer or inherited disease, and hope that the hybrid cross will give their new pet a better chance of reducing those risks. Others may desire a dog that may not affect their allergies, although not all Goldendoodles will exhibit the low shedding coat type of the Standard Poodle. Cross-breed dogs do not exhibit standard characteristics, and while Goldendoodles may shed less than a Golden Retriever, the degree of shedding will vary from dog to dog. Grooming requirements are as varied as coat types, with the least shedding coat types requiring more regular grooming than the coat types that shed. There have been no studies to date verifying that any canine is completely hypoallergenic. Goldendoodles often are good swimmers, a characteristic of both parent breeds. Like any other cross-breed, the Goldendoodle varies from individual to individual, displaying differences in size, coat type, and color. A Goldendoodle s size is generally somewhere between that of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever parents, and the range includes standard, medium and miniature. Some standard-sized Goldendoodles have weighed over pounds. Upon reaching adulthood, a standard Goldendoodle will often weigh 45 pounds or more; a medium Goldendoodle will weigh between pounds, and a miniature Goldendoodle will weigh approximately 15 to 30 pounds. Goldendoodles have different coat types: wool, fleece, hair or a combination. The wool coat is more like a traditional poodle coat. A fleece coat can be either curly, wavy or straight, with hair more similar to that of a golden retriever. As a general rule, the more curly the Goldendoodle s coat, the less shedding there will be as the dog has more features of the poodle coat. Common colors are white, cream, apricot, gold, and red. Less common colors are black and silver. Rarer colors include brown, parti, and phantom. Goldendoodles are classified as various types depending on the breed of the Goldendoodle s parents. Temperament Similar to the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Intelligent, affable, trainable, very human oriented, yet friendly toward other dogs. Moderately high energy dogs, much like their parent breeds. The Goldendoodle is not a purebred; rather, it is a specific type of mixed-breed dog or crossbreed. Some breeders prefer to restrict breeding to first generation F1 dogs i. Other breeders maintain that a Backcross F1B Goldendoodle i. Still other breeders are attempting to take this one step further and develop the Goldendoodle as a breed via selective breeding. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Mini Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Mini Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Mini Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Mini Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Mini Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Mini Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Mini Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Mini Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Mini Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

However, the first thing you need to know is that silver Shepherds are very rare, and their fur coloration is not a sign of another breed but a result of color mutation, especially of red and tan hairs changing under the influence of certain genes or alleles. You may have heard a lot about these unique dogs, but as long as some facts are true, others are absolute myths. History and Causes of Silver Color in German Shepherds The history of this Shepherd coloring dates back to , and this fur tint is considered to be the closest to the original German Shepherd. A German officer and veterinarian, Max von Stephanitz, spent about 35 years researching and breeding ideal herding dogs. Then, in , a new breed was registered. It had a wolf-like appearance, was strong and alert, and was used as a working dog for herding sheep, serving in the police and military, and guarding. According to the American Kennel Club report, it was the third most registered breed in .However, the AKC breed standards focus on rich colors , and washed-out tints that are undesirable for the show ring. Probably, it is one more reason why this coloring is so rare in GS dogs. Therefore, how can this rare and unique color appear in German Shepherds? Every set of genes has two copies. They may be similar or different from each other. If they differ, one copy dominates and results in specific physical characteristics. The other copy produces recessive traits that are not physically displayed. However, these recessive traits can appear in further generations under specific conditions. Both parents need to have a dilution recessive gene to receive a silver color. This gene called the KIT, influences the tan and red colors, making them cream or pale beige. Another dilution gene is the Agouti or A-locus. It affects black, wild sable, and tan colors and also produces a silver coat hue. Therefore, silver refers to black or grey wold-like coat colors and any other diluted GS colors. Appearance and Character of Silver German Shepherd Dogs The appearance of a pure silver or black and silver German Shepherd does not differ much from the dogs of this breed with other colors. Such pups have a long muzzle, domed forehead, long bushy tail, black nose, and erect ears. The average height of these male dogs is inches cm , and females are usually inches cm tall. An adult male weighs pounds kg , while adult girls can weigh pounds kg. The type of coat is short-medium, medium, or long. The latter is pretty rare. Because these animals are double-coated, they are heavy shedders , especially in the seasons of spring and early autumn when they prepare for temperature changes. Since silver Shepherds are a subtype of the mainstream breed, they have a build and physique fully identical to other German Shepherds. Their coloring ranges from cream to off-white with a metallic sheen. They usually have pure black spots among the silver areas. The size of the black areas depends on the color that the Agouti gene has diluted; for example, silver bi-color dogs are mostly black with minimal silver areas on saddles and blankets. It is a result of red or tan modifications. As for their temperament, these pups do not differ much from their counterparts, either. They are brave, loyal, confident, and intelligent. Like other German Shepherds, they are alert, protective, energetic, and territorial. These pets are quite independent and versatile. They are aloof to strangers and can become superb family pets if properly trained. Socialized silver Shepherds are friendly to children and other pets in the household, and they can be perfect dogs for new owners. Such dogs can work in the police, military, and search-and-rescue services. However, they bond with one person only, and it has to be taken into consideration while training to help them extend their protection drive to the entire team or household. Silver Shepherds need a lot of exercise and a good trainer who is confident and consistent and applies only positive reinforcement. Not every German Shepherd carries the Agouti gene that produces a silver coat. That makes the breeding process quite challenging and expensive. Moreover, even if both parents are the recessive gene carriers, they are not guaranteed to produce silver offspring. If you get only one silver puppy out of four in a litter or do not get any, the price of such a rare pup doggy will grow up. These dogs are not a mixed breed. They are purebred, with the same appearance, physical and behavioral patterns, and care needs as their counterparts. Though pure silver German Shepherd dogs are even rarer, most colors can get this stunning silver tint that differentiates this type of dog from other German Shepherds. Even the AKC accepts pure silver as a variation of registered colors. However, even if you register your doggy with this organization, it does not mean you can win prizes on most shows. You may wonder whether your pet needs some specific care because of its coat color. In fact, there is nothing specific, though you need to consider the characteristics and requirements for this breed. Nutrition is an important part of care, and feeding your doggy with high-quality kibble, a mixed diet, or a raw handmade diet rich in protein, fat, and useful carbs, is a must to preserve the shine of its fascinating silver coat. However, extensive brushing is recommended twice weekly, and you can do it even daily in shedding seasons. Your pet will need a medium-to-high amount of exercise. Walking with your dog twice a day for at least 45 minutes per session will do a lot of good. As well, your doggy will need training and socializing. These pups are easy to train, and you can teach them a lot of commands. The lifespan of a silver Shepherd is, on average, years. Vaccination is also very important when you take a silver puppy home. Develop a schedule with your vet and accurately follow it. Despite any misbeliefs, the coat color does not influence the overall health of silver Shepherds. They can suffer from common health problems among all other dogs of this breed. You can prevent or manage many of these conditions if you provide your pet with proper care. It is not true. However, some animals can be more aloof than others, while some individual dogs can be friendlier or more aggressive. Like all other German Shepherds, they need proper training and socialization. In addition, they do not like staying alone for a long time. They can get bored and destructive if you do not play or exercise with them. Try to include more problem-solving puzzles in the everyday training routine, and you will get a perfect pet and companion. Even the rarest blue-silver German Shepherd dogs can have the same issues as their red, tan, sable, or black counterparts. One more thing that is usually misunderstood about silver Shepherd breeding is that this color is possible only from two silver parents. In fact, any dog that has a recessive silver coloration gene can produce silver offspring. However, knowing beforehand how many puppies in the litter can be silver is impossible. That leads to breeding difficulties and the rarity of the silver Shepherds. You may wonder why it is so cheap if the dog is immensely rare. The matter is that these dogs are not accepted at the conformation shows. You can register your pup with the AKC, but the chances it will be successful in the show ring are minimal. So, breeding this tint in dogs is not popular among professionals, which accounts for a price reduction. Is a silver German Shepherd rare? Yes, this color is very rare among German Shepherds. Only the two dogs with a dilution recessive gene can produce the puppies with this tint. They do not need to be silver themselves. They can only be carriers of it. On the contrary, you never have a guarantee that a silver Shepherd will necessarily produce any silver offspring if its mate does not have that recessive gene. The color can even display in the second or third generation. Final Thoughts If you want to adopt a silver GSD and make it a part of your family and household, you need to know more about these beautiful animals. They are very intelligent, courageous, loyal, passionate, and energetic. They become superb guards and trustworthy companions. However, you have to train your dog properly to teach it to do commands and be more aloof and confident while communicating with strangers and other animals. Such pups look truly majestic, especially black and silver German Shepherd dogs. They resemble some fantastic creatures, sometimes rather scary and intimidating. However, they are very kind and caring if exercised and trained properly. You have to be ready to provide your new pet with much time and attention to avoid the development of certain behavioral problems and enjoy your time with your stunning pet. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. In , its name was changed back to German Shepherd. This correlates with anti-German sentiments that lasted throughout the war. The ancestral origin of the silver German Shepherd is as the name suggests Germany, where General Max von Stephanitz spent 35 years of his life researching and breeding dogs. In this process, he intended to develop the ideal herding dog and cross-bred different species because trying to get a better dog by breeding the same bloodline would be ineffective. The different types of German Shepherds available today come from him. The breed ranked as the third most registered breed in by the American Kennel Club, and they remain popular all around the globe. Although silver German Shepherds are a subset of the mainstream GSDs, they have precisely the same build and physique. Their breeding history is also no different than other German Shepherd Dogs. They are a relatively modern breed, with their origin dating back to .Silver GSDs have a wolf-like appearance and were originally working dogs developed for herding sheep. But because of their friendly nature, intelligence, strength, obedience, and trainability, they are now bred worldwide for other types of work such as search and rescue, police, military roles, disability assistance, and even in acting roles. Its appearance makes it stand out from other GSD dogs. Silver GSD Rarity, Cost, Look World of Dogz German Shepherds officially come in a wide range of colors , including black , black and cream, black and red, black and silver, black and tan, bicolor, blue , grey, liver, sable , and white. Blue, grey, white, liver, and silver German Shepherds within this range are considered unique and are pretty rare as well. Washed-out colors are considered undesirable because they are seen as faults, and white is disqualified from the show ring. Sorry to disappoint some — but silver German Shepherds are not always gray and glimmering. So, what does a silver GSD look like? Silver German Shepherds have an off-tan coloration. Silver color can range from a cream to an off-white color but comes in a metallic sheen in most cases. Since silver is a modification of reds and tans or pheomelanin pigmentation, they usually have black areas amongst the silver portions. Silver bi-color dogs are also predominantly black with minimum silver points and extended saddles and blankets similar to their tan counterparts. Scientists also believe their unusual coloration results from a modifier on red or tan hair. They are also known as silver sable German Shepherds. Like all Alsatians, they have a distinctive head, domed forehead, and triangular pointy ears that stand open at the front but are often pulled during movement. Silver German Shepherds are large dogs with a moderately long body length to height ratio. Males weigh lbs and are about inches tall. Females weigh lbs and will be inches tall. There is no standard weight range set by the American Kennel Club official breed standard. Watch This Gorgeous Silver German Shepherd Having Fun… Silver German Shepherd These dogs usually have a long muzzle, a short-medium to medium dense double coat, a soft and long plush tail reaching the hock, and a long neck that raises when excited and lowered when moving at a fast pace. Silver GSDs possess numerous physical qualities matching standard German Shepherds and are thus not different in build. Their silver color is simply a variation that plays no part in determining their temperament. No German Shepherd variation possesses the G series Greying gene. So, where does the silver color come from then, genetically? In German Shepherd coat color genetics , although clear scientific and genetic evidence explaining the silver coat color is not available, scientists have found out that they come from the A-series or the Agouti series. This same series also produces the sable German Shepherd and contains at least one Agouti allele not paired with a dominant sable allele. The agouti becomes quite distinctive when combined with red hair dilution, which results in the red hairs becoming cream or greyish. Studies clearly show that the silver coat color of these breeds is merely a genetic phenomenon and does not affect their temperament. However, keep in mind that they are not friendly to every stranger they meet and need adequate socialization and training. They are good with children and make excellent family dogs, but you need to set specific boundaries for them, just like any other breed. They often take on a guardian role for those within their family, owing to their history of herding sheep. Silver German Shepherds do not like staying alone for long periods and can become destructive if unexercised and boredom sets in. You can curb their behavior by giving them essential mental and physical exercise by including various activities, training, and problem-solving puzzles in their routine. This ensures that they drain their excess energy by channeling it into constructive and exciting activities. Does Silver Colour Affect Health? Coat color affects the health of some breeds, but that is not the case for silver German Shepherds. Their glorious color has no bearing on their health. They are, however, prone to certain health conditions, but that has nothing to do with their coloration. Their health correlates with that of other German Shepherd types. Hip and elbow dysplasia are some of the most common health-related complications in this breed. Instead of looking for a relationship between health and coat color, one should look at the health condition of parent dogs. Parents with high scores for hips and elbows should reduce the chances of puppies developing these conditions. By then, puppies with dysplasia risk are already bred and sold. Silver German Shepherds are a relatively healthy breed. However, like most breeds, they are prone to some conditions. These are: OCD Osteochondritis dissecans abnormal cartilage growth. Saber is a certified therapy dog as well - he loves people and loves to visit. .Saber at Three Below doing therapy and some casual shots Starting to fill out! He has had reds and tans too! Good thing she never looks at my websight or she'd kill me lol: Michelle and saber winning it all st the fair news paper article Saber doing agility walked right on the equipment first time Sabers brother at only 8 months old. .Like this male Saber consistantly produces bigger and better then himself Sabers 2 year old brother and letter from owners Good Morning Robin, I figured since Max just turned 2 I'd update you. He was born on 17 Dec , to Blaze and Ziva. Had him at the vet's on Monday and he weighed in at pounds, so his weight has been pretty steady for the past few months, but he has grown taller. Currently he likes to rest his chin on the dining room table when he watches me on the laptop. Always ready in case there is an opportunity to be pet. Loves riding in the car, and gets along great with other dogs, but still apprehensive with new people, or with someone he hasn't seen in a while. I always bring treats with me to help with the introductions. Loves going with me to different businesses where allowed and has never been a problem. Great on hikes, and he carries his own backpack and supplies. The picture was taken this morning while he was waiting for his breakfast. As you can see, the silver is starting to really show. We get stopped all the time when we're out and about because of his looks, and I'm always asked if it's ok for them to take his picture because they've never seen another German Shepherd like him. I've had too many offers to sell him to count. The vet's office is really surprised at his disposition because he takes the poking and proding without incident considering his size. As always there are people worried about him because of his size, but they soon learn their fears are unfounded. Overall I'd have to say he's been a great dog. Saber sons from his first litter out of a very small female! Both at 10 months old are over lbs and 30 " high at the shoulder. The rare tri color sable male is lbs the black and silver at 10 months old. When we take them for walks they strut like the world is looking at them. I wanted to get another puppy before he passed away, so that our older dog could help raise the puppy. After a while, I found your website, and looked through it, repeatedly. I was impressed by what you detailed. Large GSDs, with calm temperaments, good health, and long lives. I then researched your reputation. I am a trained investigator, being suspicious is a career hazard. I could only find one, single complaint.I wasn't really looking for a "breed standard" GSD.I was looking for more. Another white shepherd, with a straight back and good hips. I called you, and discussed what I was looking for.A large white GSD, with a good protective drive, lower prey drive, and a mellow disposition. Well, it is a year later.And we have gotten far more that what I had hoped for. Physically, he is an amazing example of a German Shepherd. He is a solid pounds, with incredible muscle tone, and a massive head. He has yet to start filling out. I expect him to be at least pounds. In all honesty, I have been a bit startled by how quickly he grew, and how large he has become. My veterinarian, who has been practicing for 35 years, has remarked that she has never seen another dog like him. She is very impressed with his bone structure, his stance, and how proportional he is. His strong, straight back; his massive head, his size, and his strength are all things that she has noted. She has suggested that I breed him, because she believes that it would be a shame not to pass his genetics on.He is, quite simply.When we take him out in public, he creates quite a stir. People routinely approach us to compliment him, and how beautiful he is. He has been described as "gorgeous", "regal", and "majestic". The fact that our eight year old can control him in public only adds to people's fascination with him. He is very obedient, and was easy to train.He is very intelligent. He is affectionate, very loving, and very playful. Despite his size, he is quite gentle with those he loves. His protective drive is very appropriate. He is wary of strangers until properly introduced. He physically places himself between my children and other people. After being taught by our older shepherd, he now regularly patrols the perimeter of our property. I have included a few pictures. Unfortunately, it is hard to get good angles of him, because he thinks my taking pictures is some sort of game. The pictures truly do not do him any justice. We will be picking up another puppy from you. Quite frankly, I think that you have managed to produce amazing examples of what GSDs should be.Large and powerful; extremely intelligent, loyal and gentle; superior health and longevity, with a very appropriate protective drive. You have surpassed all of my expectations, and our family thanks you.Andrew Sadowski. Are they healthy dogs? Strong, rich colors are generally preferred in this working bred dog. This may be why silver grey dogs are less common. Washed out colors, including blues and livers, are considered a serious fault. The white coat color is undesirable within the official description, and even leads to disqualification from the show ring. Where Do They Come From? The black and silver German Shepherd is essentially the same as any other color of German Shepherd Dog. The history of the German Shepherd Dog, of course, can be traced back to Germany. Cavalry Officer Max von Stephanitz decided he wanted to breed the ideal herding dog. Von Stephanitz spent 35 years dedicating his life to improving the breed. Expanding from its pastoral herding roots to showing its utility as a service dog and in police and military canine units worldwide. The Genetics of the Silver German Shepherd Coat color genetics are complex, with the exact genes responsible for silver coloration yet to be fully identified. Within the German Shepherd breed, the gene for sable is dominant over all other colors and patterns. The first registered German Shepherd Dog was sable in color. While you may see a working silver sable Shepherd, that would be a very unusual color combination. Different colors Bear in mind as well that the final color of a puppy will only be clear once the outer coat has fully developed. This means that a relatively dark coated puppy could develop into a mature black and silver German Shepherd Dog. They are large dogs, weighing between 50 — 90 pounds and standing between 22 — 26 inches tall. And have a muscular, strong body, with pointed ears and a dense double coat. You may have seen parent dogs advertised as black saddle silver German Shepherds, but what does that actually mean? Any German Shepherd Dog with silver coloration is less likely to have a silverback German Shepherd pattern. Grooming The double coat of the German Shepherd does require brushing every few days to remove loose hairs. They will also shed twice a year, leaving a significant amount of hair behind! Color vs Temperament There is no link between the gene for silver fur and the typical temperament traits of the dog. German Shepherds have a reputation for being fiercely intelligent, intensely loyal, and enthusiastic about work or exercise. This is a brave and courageous breed, as well as being more aloof than some others. They are good around children they know, and often take on a guardian role for those within their own family. Training and Activity All German Shepherds are intelligent dogs, regardless of their coat patterns. Their high level of intelligence means they are a joy to train, and enjoy positive, reward-based training methods. These are active dogs, and require regular daily exercise. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for German Shepherds. Be sure to challenge yours with activities such as agility, or learning tricks, as a way to keep both their mind and body stimulated. Unfortunately, all German Shepherds can be prone to a range of health conditions. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are both common in the breed. Parent dogs should have been given a score for their hips and elbows. By selecting parent dogs with high scores, you can reduce the chances of your puppy developing these conditions. This is the result of abnormal cartilage growth. Other health conditions that can affect this breed include: Degenerative myelopathy.

black and tan labrador puppies for sale - We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Which is why a lack of exercise can be the root cause for many destructive behavioral problems for active dog breeds such as Labs. As WebMD. This is a game that combines both mental and physical activity. To start, teach your dog the specific names for his or her toys by pointing at them and repeating the names. Ask your dog to fetch a particular toy. If they bring back the wrong one, throw it back and ask again until you get the right toy. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Make a circle of about 20 feet or more with your Labrador square in the middle and take turns calling him or her to you. Praise your dog or give a treat when they come, and then step back to let someone else call. Once your dog understands how it works, call faster and faster for a great doggie workout. You can also have family members in different parts of the house calling to give your Labrador the exercise they need on a rainy day. If you have the room, you can set up the hurdles indoor and have your dog run through them until blissfully tired. You can also set them up in the yard and create a true agility course, complete with jumps, twists and turns. Your Labrador has an incredible nose. Keep it in top shape by hiding treats around the house or yard and asking your dog to find them all. You can hold one treat in your hand and let your Lab sniff it before sending him or her out to search to give an idea of what to look for. Alternatively, you can use people instead of treats and have your dog find your loved ones instead for a twist on the game. Just make sure to have treats on hand to reward your Labrador for their excellent finds. Kong makes some of the most popular models, but you have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to picking the right toy for your Labrador. Designed to help cut down on boredom, food dispensing toys are like puzzle treats for your dog. Click here for our list of the best chew toys for labs and strong chewers. Upgrade Your Fetch Toy To a Frisbee Unlike balls that tend to sink and roll away, Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. As for durability, you can choose between soft Frisbees your dog can easily grip with their teeth yes, even puppy teeth! Then you can scatter multiple toys around the house and give the command for your dog to put them all away. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. If your dog is a whiz at identifying the right cup, you can then make things more challenging by slowly rotating the cups. Have you any favorite games you like to play with your Labrador? Let us know in the comments! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Just perfectly normal! Although can appear really rough.I don't mind my three playing like this.This becomes a learned and highly self rewarding behaviour that in a friendly love everyone labrador can be a challenging issue to address So I have a rule, and maybe let them play with one out of four dogs they meet.With the other dogs I don't want them to meet, I keep mine at a distance, so they are not frustrated and are able to process and learn, and reward heavily for focus on me and ignoring the other dogs. Click to expand.I might start doing that when out on walks then, we have just got in from one actually and she is a lot more "can I sniff you please" I don't know if that is just chance but I think she could be calming down a bit. She is respectful when first meeting new dogs but if they give her just a little hint that they are interested she is their best friend. We have had some comments from people in our puppy class that Harley is "aggressive" and over the top. So we have kept her from those dogs or rather, those owners. We watched a series called Rescue dog to Super dog and in one of the episodes one of the rescue dogs was being introduced to a home with an existing dog. I think it was Nando Brown who eased the concerns of the owners that it is important to read the body language of the dogs in a neutral way and not project our anxieties. So he recommended that the playing dogs get seperated and then the "victim" dog is set free and the "bully" dog is on a harness seperately. If the "victim" dog approaches the "bully" and attempts to re-establish play or positive contact then the chances are good that the "victim" dog is actually okay with the current interaction. I just couldn't forgive myself if she got hurt. Dogs normally greet each other and indulge in some sniffing before inviting play, frequently with a chase game. Bitey face is frequently only played by dogs who are well known to each other as it takes trust in the others actions. It is advisable to stop Poppy practicing this behaviour as it can lead to problems either with a dog that takes exception to her behaviour or an owner who takes exception to their dog being jumped on. The other dog may be recovering from injury or surgery or may be reactive to other dogs etc. One way to think of it is how you would feel if a complete stranger ran up to you in the park, threw his arms around you for a big hug and gave you a big smacker of a kiss Click to expand.Hi Jojo83, yeah very good point, I don't know if Poppy has somehow found out I've been worried but this afternoon has been a little better. Been keeping her on her lead and going up to dogs slowly, shes been a lot sniffier with them rather than just being overly excited and lunging herself at them! Guess she's still a puppy though but I don't want her to think she can get away with it at the same time, as you say, if it was revered roles i'd be a little concerned too. Labrador Retrievers are usually very kind , friendly, and even-tempered, even when they are puppies. It is actually for this reason that Labs make great family dogs. The fact that they love to play with people—whether they are kids, adults, or seniors—contributes to making them one of the most popular dog breeds. Take note, however, that every dog also has its limits. Just like humans, if you push your Lab too hard and annoy them during playtime or while they exercise, they may grow to dislike it and may even snarl, bark, or nip. Additionally, Labradors need obedience training while they are young. Their temperament may change as they age if they do not learn how to obey you. Generally, however, it is fairly easy to play with your Labrador puppy. They love to be around people and enjoy most games that you teach them. If a child tries to play with a Lab puppy, they often play more carefully, but again, that depends on your particular pup. What toys can you use to play with Lab puppies? Here is a quick list of the basic toys that your Labrador Retriever puppy will love: Balls Whether soft or hard, having balls as toys for your Lab puppies is great. Ideally, however, puppies should have softer balls, while older dogs may prefer tougher ones. Just make sure that the ball is always too big for them to swallow to avoid choking hazards. At the same time, however, the ball must be small enough to fit in their mouths. Squeaky toys Some Labs get excited whenever they hear a squeaky toy. Puzzle toys For Labradors that are known for being very smart dogs, mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise. You can also get them activity toys, boxes, and balls to present them with a challenge. These puzzle toys usually have spaces where you can put food inside. Chew toys Chew toys are always great toys, especially when your Lab puppy is teething. For these types of toys, you can try chew toys and rawhide bones, among others. Tug toys Dogs love tug toys because the goal is to win. However, you also need to be careful with these kinds of toys, especially if your puppy shows aggression. How long should Labrador puppy play sessions be? Typically, if your puppy looks energetic and wants to play, they can play as often as they can. They should take breaks, though, whenever they show signs of exhaustion, like lying down, panting, and aggression. However, a lot of people agree that puppies should play for 5 minutes for each month of their age twice in a day. For example, a four-month-old puppy can play for 20 minutes two times a day, while a 5-month old puppy can play for 25 minutes two times a day. Be gentle, however. While Labrador Retrievers are big dogs, it does not mean that they can handle rough play all the time. This is especially true when your Lab is still young. They could get hurt or feel scared of you if you play with them too roughly. Fetch game to play with your labrador puppy A simple game of fetch is a great way of bonding with your Lab puppy. Plus, it helps them exercise their mind and body. When your Labs are still very young puppies, stick to the basics—throw the toy and encourage them to bring it back to you. Once your Labrador Retriever gets good at playing fetch, you can make the game more interesting. For instance, you can get specific toys and name them. Of course, you need to say the names to your dog as well and point at your dog so they can identify the toy. Start slow by throwing two toys in front of your dog and saying the name of one toy that your dog knows. Your dog should get the right toy. To encourage them to make the right choice, give them treats every time they get the right toy. The name game Once your Labrador gets good at playing fetch, you can make the game more interesting. Of course, you need to say the names to your dog and point at the dog so they can identify the toy. Start slowly by throwing two toys in front of your dog and saying the name of one toy that your dog knows. Hidden treasure Another great brain game for Lab puppies is to find yummy treats. Show your Labrador a treat and let them smell it, but do not let them eat it. Make your dog leave the room and hide the treat. Let them enter the room to find the treat. Make sure it is not too hard to hide at first to make sure they understand the game. You can increase the difficulty the more you play the game. Chase game to play with your labrador puppy If you have more than one Lab puppy, then you can encourage them to chase each other. However, you may not need to since puppies love to naturally chase each other to play. Do not be alarmed if it looks like one of your Lab pup is getting bullied. Bubbles game to play with your labrador puppy A fun way to play with your Lab puppy is to blow bubbles! You can get non-toxic bubbles and blow them into the air. Some pet shops will sell flavored play bubbles so your dog will love the game even more. Most Labradors will instinctively try to grab and bite the bubbles, which can be lots of fun for them. Plus, it is definitely cute to watch! However, you need to have a mop or a rag to use after playtime. The bubbles can make your floor very slippery because some bubbles will fall on the floor and leave a soapy, slippery residue. Tug of war With tug of war, you can get a few chew toys and rope toys to play a classic game of tug of war. Your Lab will simply bite on one end as you pull the other. Make sure you take regular breaks, though. Do not be too rough and let your Lab win sometimes. Frisbee game to play with your labrador puppy Does your pup love to jump in the air? Encourage them to run and jump high by playing frisbee! All you have to do is throw the frisbee, and they will run and catch it. Play with sprinklers Most Labs love water, so this is a great game to help them enjoy playtime and get used to water. All you have to do is turn the sprinklers on, and you can run and play with your Lab through the water! Hide and seek If you want to play a fun game, make your Lab sit and stay. Make sure they stay as you find a place to hide. Once you are hidden, call out their name one or two times until they find you. Piggy in the Middle If you co-own a dog or have multiple people in the house, this game is a fun way for many people to play with your pup. Find a way to surround the puppy without making them feel closed in. Grab a ball and throw the ball to the other person. Your dog will probably not get the ball, which is fine, but they will definitely try their best! In short… It is easy to play with a Lab puppy and keep them entertained. You can buy them the appropriate toys, be gentle with them, and play fun games with them to keep them happy and healthy. Post navigation. How to play with a puppy through training. Playing has been a part of social development for both humans and dogs since the days of hunting and gathering. Nowadays, our daily routine has been reduced to mostly hunting burgers and gathering fries, but playing still remains a critical part of human social development. This is true for our canine companions as well. Ensuring adequate and healthy playtime is a big part of raising a well-rounded dog. Some types of puppy games are good for physical development, whereas others are important for mental and social development. Here are a few of my favorite twists on classic puppy games. Puppy Running Games 1. Use a Flirt Pole Flirt poles are fabulously simple and absolutely brilliant. A flirt pole is simply a stick or pole with a rope or bungee hanging from the end. At the other end of the rope is a fabric-type toy that bounces and moves easily. By bouncing the pole or dragging it slowly across the ground, the toy at the end of the rope becomes wildly animated like a small animal. Your dog will go nuts chasing and trying to capture it. But, how do their trainers first start them on that path? Playing hide-n-seek! To initiate the game, trot away from your puppy while looking over your shoulder and calling her name. Stop after a few yards, squat down to your knees and scoop her up into a playful snuggle. Repeat several times, each time going a bit further away and calling her less and less until you are no longer calling her at all. The final phase of hide-n-seek is to wait until your puppy is distracted such as when they first go outside to use the loo! Wait and see if she can find you based on sound and smell cues alone. The following games can be played with your puppy indoors, in the comfort of your sweatpants as your dinner simmers on the stove. Blow bubbles My shepherd mix Lily had a blast chomping at the bubbles and sneezing as they pop on her nose. Be sure to dry off the floor afterward so nobody slips on the little bit of soapy residue bubble-blowing sessions will inevitably leave on the floor! Certain toys work better than others—a knotted rope, length of fabric, or Kong tug toys. Start by initiating tug with the toy. Tug-of-war is only fun when two are playing, so your puppy will drop the toy eventually. If you time it right, you can praise your puppy for dropping the toy and then re-initiate the game right away. And the game will go on and on. This is the easiest indoor game for puppies. It also helps your puppy become desensitized to being touched—useful for future grooming or vet visits! A bored puppy is a destructive puppy! So here are my favorite brain games for puppies. Tracking Games Tracking games are great for dogs to put their awesome olfactory system to work! All you have to do is drag a treat like a milk bone across the ground a few yards and hide. The best hiding places are inside something like a box or overturned flowerpot. Next time you go to the pet store for kibble, bring a few old rags and ask the staff if you can get some scents from the hamsters, birds, and maybe even the fish department! Then move them around, mix them up, and let your puppy use his nose to knock over the tubs and find the right one. Leisurely Sniff-n-Strolls Going for a walk is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do to socialize your puppy. The point is to mix it up with keeping your puppy on a tight lead for polite walks, versus leisurely strolls with a little more leash to sniff around and explore. A fun way to desensitize your puppy to a variety of noises is to play this game. Gather a basket of objects from around the house and hide it behind your back. One by one, make noise with each object while your dog looks on, probably confused. Then show him the object and let him sniff it and explore it while you make the noise again with the object in plain sight. This could include your shaking keys, dropping a small pan on the floor, crinkling some plastic wrap, or clicking a ball-point pen. Meet the Car It may not occur to you to introduce your puppy to the family car, but you should! Walking around the car together, opening and closing doors, honking the horn, and letting him jump in and out are good activities. Crate games Getting your puppy comfortable going into a crate or bed is one of the earliest goals of training. So why not make a game out of it? Toss tiny treats inside and around the crate while she gets used to walking in and out without fear. Then up the ante by occasionally closing the door after she walks inside. Then let her out again and start over. This is one of those puppy training games for the whole family to get in on! Have everyone stand in a big circle in the backyard. It seems simple, but we always end up having a laugh at the antics that puppies get into when they start running around the circle looking for who has called! Pick two objects and set them in front of your puppy. Say the name of one object a few times, and wait. Repeat, using the same object as the target a few times before repeating the same thing with another object. Then alternate back and forth and see how many sessions of this game it takes for your dog to know the names of the objects! The secret to successful play with a large dog is to define the boundaries and rules of the game, and to control where it starts and stops. This is almost impossible with free play or rough housing, where dogs often become over-excited and careless. Structured games enable you to remain in control whilst keeping your dog happy and entertained. It is not just bloodhounds that are great at following a trail. Labradors can do it too. Try laying a scent trail for your dog, with a treat at the end, and watch him follow it with his nose. You will lay your trail with a scent marker. A piece of cloth rubbed in some roast meat juices should do the trick. And you will also need some little chunks of roast chicken or beef steak, for the treat at the end of the trail. Your First Scent Trail Lay your first trail in a straight line on an open piece of ground. Keep your dog out of sight while you do this. Step 1 Mark the start of the trail with a cone or a rock, so that you know where to begin tracking Drag your cloth along for 3 feet. Place a little piece of meat or some other yummy treat at the end. Step 2 Now fetch your dog and take him to your start marker. Watch him sniff around and follow the scent to the treat. Step 3 Repeat a few times. Now you can start to make the game more fun. Making scent work it more difficult One way to make the game more challenging, is to make your trails longer. You can also gradually introduce turns or changes in direction so that the trail is wiggly rather than straight. After a few weeks of practicing you will be able to lay quite complicated trails for your dog to play the scent game. The next game can be played indoors 2. Statue Games To Play With Your Dog In this game, your dog has to sit perfectly still without moving a muscle, whilst you walk all around him in a circle. Take care not to step on his tail as you cross behind him. You teach this game in easy stages, using an event marker to let the dog know when he is on the right track. Your event marker The event marker is just a sound that you make each time the dog is successful. Step 1 To begin with, sit your dog next to you, stand still, and watch him carefully. As soon as he is completely still, mark and reward! Step 2 The next step is to mark and reward 3 seconds of not moving. Fidgety dogs may need you to mark 2 seconds first, and then move on to 3. Step 3 When your dog can sit like a statue for 3 seconds, it is time to teach him to keep really still whilst you move your leg. To start with, just lift one foot off the ground and put it back down again. If he keeps still, mark and reward. If he moves or fidgets go back to standing still for 3 seconds, then try and smaller movement of your foot. Making it more difficult Once he can do this, you can progress to bigger movements of your leg. If he moves, make the game easier for a moment. When you give him his treat, let him move around, then bring him back to sit next to you for the next attempt. Over the space of five to ten games of five minutes each, you will be able to progress from lifting your leg, to taking a step to one side, to taking a step backwards. All without the dog moving. Soon you will be able to step forwards, turn and face the dog! You will also be able to step back wards and to one side, so that you step across his tail. It is then just a short step to be able to step all around your dog whilst his sits like a statue. Step 1 Choose a toy your dog really loves. Use the name of the toy a lot whilst your dog is holding and playing with it. Step 2 Now sit your dog or get someone to hold him and let him see you take the toy through and open doorway and place it on the floor in full view in another room. Tell him how clever he is when he gets it. Step 3 Repeat a few times, then begin to make things more complicated. Making it more difficult Try placing the toy where he cannot easily see it until he is in the room. You need to build up his skill gradually. After a few more games, you will be able to make the game more difficult, hiding the toy under a cardboard box or a cushion. You can also teach your dog different names for different toys and see if he can pick up the right one. Teach Your Dog To Freeze! This is great fun to play with an active dog. Step 1 Have your dog move around near to you. Keep throwing him tiny treats to hold his attention and dance around to keep him moving. Step 2 Start dancing around again. Each time you freeze, wait for him to freeze too and immediately mark and reward. Step 3 Now you can start to add a cue word. Mark and reward the dog when he stops. Making it more difficult Now start throwing the treats further away and saying freeze when he has picked up the treat and is starting to return. But as long as you always throw the treat well behind him, he will soon start to freeze further from you. Freeze is not just a fun game, it can also be a useful cue to give a dog that is heading towards danger or getting too far away. Keeping it fun With all these games, it pays to make haste slowly, and to stop whilst the dog is having fun. Many dogs will get bored if you carry on much longer than this.


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black and tan labrador puppies for sale - Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. A thick-bellied and thick-legged cub of a Shepherd color with a long tail and dense fur can only be finally classified as purebred when the ears of a German Shepherd puppy stand up. The ears of a true German Shepherd are, according to the standard, erect, of the medium size, set high, with the ends directed forward and up, and not adjacent to the skull on both sides, even when a Shepherd dog is in motion or presses its ears or lowers them in a calm position. When German Shepherd ears stand up when excited, the distance between their highest points tips should visually equal the width of the auricle. Since the range of frequencies heard by a dog is much higher than that of a human, a German Shepherd determines the source of the sound and its direction and location instantly and accurately due to such an auricle at a distance of m depending on the pitch of the sound. Moreover, a Shepherd can hear the peals of thunder or the sound of a working chainsaw at a distance of km. The lowest sound for a human is 16 Hz, while the highest one is 20 thousand Hz. The upper limit of frequency fluctuations perceived by a GS dog as a sound is thousand Hz. Clear hearing is especially important for a German Shepherd as for a dog with high service qualities and no less high requirements for its work. Sensitive ears allow not only for relying on a Shepherd dog as an excellent guard but also for guiding it at great distances, giving commands at frequencies that are not perceived by the human ear or in an undertone. Their small ears are also imperfect — they are rather soft due to the underdeveloped cartilage that makes up the auricle. That is why there are separate German Shepherd puppy ears stages when they start standing up. The cartilaginous plate is covered on both sides with a layer of thin connective tissue that provides the main cartilage with growth and nutrition and is called the perichondrium. The perichondrium, on the contrary, is dotted with mini-hematopoietic capillaries and blood vessels. Through them, the cartilage receives necessary substances for its growth and compaction with the help of conventional diffusion literally, penetration by contact. In the same way, the ear cartilage of a GS dog is built on, and the perichondrium has semi-stem cells which, like bricks, are built into the cartilage tissue. Cartilage cells, in turn, produce collagen and elastin. This is due to the active work of all parts of the auricle cartilage and perichondrium. Up to 4 months, cartilage tissues are especially active, but by the fifth month, the growth of elastic layers and the embedding of stem cells decreases. Having reached a certain density, ear growth slows down, and in a short time, it almost diminishes. The metabolism in the auricle becomes so low that visually the ear seems to no longer grow. However, limited living processes in it continue throughout life. Otherwise, it would be impossible to restore the tissues of the German Shepherd puppy ears in case of damage. To do this, you need to feed the puppy a balanced diet with enough calcium and phosphorus. Excess calcium and phosphorus can adversely affect the formation of the ear cartilage and the development of the musculoskeletal system of a German Shepherd. We must not forget about the composition of the blood because it is the main food for the growth and strengthening of the cartilage plate due to the diffuse contact with it via the perichondrium. Not only nutrition but also the obligatory physical activity of a German Shepherd puppy, both at home and on walks , help improve the blood supply to the perichondrium. Under such keeping conditions, the ears of the Shepherd stand up on time and additional actions on the part of an owner are not required. The optimal age when the ears should stand up is 5 months. Do not be afraid if the ears are 1. This sometimes happens. You need to worry if the puppy is already 8 months old, and the ears still do not rise. If at the age of 12 months, the ears are still not on top, the question of a purebred puppy will emerge. Teeth and Ears It often happens that at 2- 3 months the ears of a Shepherd stood up, and at 4 they fell one or two at once This is a normal process associated with the change of teeth, when the body mobilizes all the microelements to build a strong dental system, pulling phosphorus and calcium front he cartilage in this direction. At the same time, the drooping ears should stand up. Hurry up! After a year, hopes to put up ears in a German Shepherd are melting exponentially. There may be, for example, a birthing crease, subluxation, or hematoma as a result of injury to the ear canal. Has your dog ever had ear infections or other ear problems? They can involve inflammation of the middle ear, otodectosis, or a forest tick attack. Have you noticed any allergic reactions in your pet? It may be allergic to dairy products or antibiotics. If antibiotics or immunomodulators were used, what did your dog get sick with, and how often? Infectious diseases significantly inhibit the development of a Shepherd dog and slow down growth and physiological formation, including cartilage tissues. The latter is in charge of whether the ears of a GS puppy will stand up or it will remain floppy-eared. In what conditions is the young Shepherd kept? When living in an aviary, a dog must have a warmed booth in winter to avoid hypothermia of the ears, leading to spasms of small vessels of the perichondrium and a dense canopy from the sun in summer — overheating also leads to spasms. Do you walk and talk enough to your dog? Each age demands its own supplements developed for puppies, and they are also divided by the size of the dogs: small, medium, and large dogs. The German Shepherd is a large breed! This is one of the most common problems in pedigree dogs, including German Shepherds. Diseases associated with the imbalance of hormones lead to problems with the immune system and prevent the body from proper formations of all organs and their functions. Overfeeding a German Shepherd as well as underfeeding leads to a deficiency of micro-and macroelements, which highly contributes to the timely formation of cartilage tissues by the age when the Shepherd should raise its ears. Have there been any stressful situations? Cortisol, a stress hormone, activates a defense mechanism that blocks the production of new cells including semi-stem cells in cartilage tissues , reduces blood flow, and forms a negative calcium balance in the body of a Shepherd dog. Very often, this problem is transmitted at the genetic level, and your German Shepherd floppy ears can be a result of it. When was the last vaccination administered? After vaccination, the body of a GS dog begins the active formation of immunity. The process requires the consumption of microelements and vitamins for biochemical reactions, so their deficiency is formed, similar to the condition after an illness. How often do you pet your puppy on the head? At your touch, the Shepherd dog instinctively lays its ears back, getting used to keeping them folded lengthwise from the base to the top. The result will be an acquired crease or scar along with the entire ear that keeps the German Shepherd ears down, and this will require cartilage adjustment. If the doctor sees it necessary, your pet will have to take a blood test, undergo an ultrasound, and possibly take some x-rays. Treatment Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will prescribe medicines most often — flavonoids, vitamins, glucosamine, calcitonin, thyroxine, iodine, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium , which normalize the composition of the blood and add the necessary building material to the body. It is important to carry out all the medicinal prescriptions under the supervision of a veterinarian. An overabundance of any element can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the pet and its ears in particular. In addition to medication, the doctor will most likely prescribe an ear massage at home. The massage procedure is not complicated — knead the ear from the base to the very tip between the thumb and forefinger, helping to improve blood supply, for about 5 minutes, times a day. Be careful with the place where the ear is attached to the head! This place does not need to be kneaded, only the auricle itself! Though, the most favorable result will not be long in coming — the ears of Shepherd dogs stand up in just a week or two. It is worse if the veterinarian makes a diagnosis of the atypical defect of the ear cartilage. What does it mean? Is it safe for the health of the Shepherd? And is it possible to put ears on a puppy with such a diagnosis? Atypical Cartilage and Ways to Eliminate Consequences Atypical cartilage is a defect in the development of the ear cartilage, resulting from a damaged structure of ear tissues, and their inability to support the ear in an upright position. This often occurs in young dogs after the ears have stood up, and then an ear or even two has fallen off. The same picture can be observed in old Shepherd dogs — the ear or both fall off and then rise again. The reason is the same — deformation of the ear cartilage due to long years of life at old age. However, with the old GSs, it will no longer be possible to return the ears to a stable standing position. Nevertheless, it is quite possible to correct the position of the young German Shepherd ears — they need to be glued, allowing the cartilage to recover. Gluing is nothing more than the necessary support for the intensive synthesis of elastin a connective protein in tissues and its uniform growth over the entire area of the ear cartilage. Properly glued ears do not allow creases or folds, never stretch scars, and make it possible to fill these creases with full-fledged elastin within 1. In this case, the puppy or young GS should be given maintenance vitamin supplements containing gelatin. Good results are also provided by a steep bone jelly or soaked food gelatin, 1 tbsp before every feeding. Adding bone meal and sea fish to the diet is a good solution, too! Taping Ears Correctly Since when is it worth starting the taping process? Until months of age, cartilage correction is unlikely to be needed. It is better to use the support in the form of massage and, possibly, a garter to put two ears together from months of age so that they take the correct position on the head. Feel the ear from its base to tip. If a crease or scar is found, you need to tape the ear urgently! You can watch some videos to see how to tape German Shepherd ears correctly. To correct one non-standing ear if the cartilage is even and of good density, without creases and scars, you can resort to a cardboard or plastic insert that maintains the ear in the desired position. Watch some videos to see how to do that. In any case, do not despair! David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Suffice to say that the dog has come a long way from its herding roots. Part of that perfect picture we have of these pups is the erect position of their ears. It gives them the qualities we associate with the breed, such as intelligence and confidence. Floppy ears strike us as a disconnect. These dogs have a dense coat that puts a lot of weight on their ears, relatively speaking. Also, large breeds like the German Shepherd mature more slowly than smaller dogs. It could just be a matter of time. That fact will come into play with the availability and price of the dog. It may have a disqualifying trait , such as floppy ears. This characteristic has a genetic component. Injury or Trauma Damaged the Cartilage Puppies sometimes play rough. They bite at each other, and sometimes the ears get the brunt of it. That often translates into slower healing times. Some manufactures produce tailor-made foods for specific breeds , such as the German Shepherd. That can go a long way to helping your dog recovering from an injury. It can interfere with air circulation in the ear canals, setting up the perfect storm for infections or mites. These conditions are horribly uncomfortable for your pup. Left untreated, it can cause a hematoma or swelling. This condition requires veterinary treatment. Several options exist, from aspirating or draining it to surgery. The best prevention is avoiding the conditions that caused the ear discomfort in the first place. All German Shepherds have floppy ears as puppies. The difference depends on when they start to change and stand up into their adult position. It can take several months. However, the number of adult dogs with floppy ears is about one in five. That may get its ears standing upright quicker. Taping the ears is usually part of the healing process when dogs get their ears cropped. The other concern is doing the procedure correctly. That could lead to ear trauma or a bowel obstruction if it swallows the materials. We suggest that you have your veterinarian do the job if you want to go this route. Final Thoughts The upright ears are an essential feature of the striking pose of the German Shepherd. Nature often has her plan for when that will happen in a puppy. Sometimes, it takes longer in pups with thicker fur or large ears. Healthy nutritional support will help the cartilage develop stronger and quicker. In the meantime, patience is the key. See also:. A common misconception that many people have is that German Shepherds have cropped ears that account for their erect posture. It often surprises some people to learn that the AKC standard calls for naturally erect, not cropped ears. GSD puppies are born with floppy ears set against the side of the head. As puppies mature, their ears usually start to stand up naturally. However, for various reasons, some dogs have ears that stay floppy. You can reasonably expect erect ears by around eight months old. This is because calcium that would generally nourish the ears is reallocated to the teeth during this time. You can expect the ears to become erect after the teething stops , around 20 weeks. After a puppy is no longer teething, they will start retaining enough cartilage in the ears to help hold them up. GSDs ears are heavier than they appear, and the cartilage must be sufficient to help keep that position. A sign of ears likely to stay erect are ears that become pointy once they start to stand. If your puppy reaches four or five months without any sign of the ears standing up, you might need to give them some help. When the ears are not erect by around seven or eight months, they will more than likely retain a floppy position. It is not something that is going to happen overnight. If you notice that your pup can prick their ears up or even just the tips of their ears by the time they are four to five months old, the chances are that the ears are developing normally and should become pointed without any intervention. The best thing to do is to keep your hands off their ears and avoid bending, rubbing, or folding their ears. If you notice that your German Shepherd is shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, it may be their attempt to relieve some kind of minor itchiness or irritation. However, if you notice that the head-shaking persists, then you should be concerned, especially as your pup grows. Any trauma to their ears before they reach four to five months of age can affect the cartilage and cause the ears to remain floppy rather than erect. Aural Haematoma: this is a blood blister found on the outer skin of the ear and can appear swollen. This condition is often the result of trauma due to vigorous ear shaking or a dog fight. However, if they are more serious, they will need to be removed surgically, and this can sometimes include the removal of part or all of the ear canal. If not, your pup will continue shaking their head and scratching, which can cause further injury and trauma to their ears. Skin Allergies: The head shaking and scratching may also be due to an allergy. For this, you may have to use antibiotics, antihistamines, or put your pup on a low allergy diet to treat their ears. For more information on avoiding dog ear infections and what to look for regarding causes and treatments, visit AKC. One of the more recognizable features of the German Shepherd dog breed is their large, erect ears and stoic expression. However, a lesser-known fact is that a German Shepherd puppy is born with floppy ears. So, how do you know what kind of ears your German Shepherd will have? The ears should also be pointed. If you got your German Shepherd from a reputable dog breeder, you could expect that their ears will stand erect after they are done teething. However, if you acquired your puppy from a puppy mill or there were less than desirable breeding practices or health problems, then your adult dog may end up with droopy ears. German Shepherd Ears Chart Although there is an official breed standard, in reality, German Shepherds have different types of ears, from ears that are set too high or too low to ears that are too large, asymmetrical, or too small. Some dogs even have ears pointing outwards or inwards or tilting one way. Overall, as you can see in our German Shepherd Ears Chart , there are at least 12 different types of German Shepherd ear shapes. Blood flow into the cartilage will likely increase when you do this, helping the ears keep their shape. Proper cleaning will help prevent infections that can be painful and costly to treat. Make sure you have a towel handy as you drop the ear cleaner into their ear. The towel can be used to clean up any mess as well as massage the ear cleaner solution in and around the ears. You can then use a cotton ball to remove any dirt or excess liquid. Chew Toys Sturdy chew toys will not only help keep your puppy busy but can also play a role in exercising the muscles supporting both the ears and jaws. Chewing helps with teething while also exercising their jaw and neck, and head muscles. Quality Diet The food that you feed your puppy should have high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Foods free from both wheat and corn are some of the best choices. You should also discuss supplementation with your veterinarian. Glucosamine, for example, helps to lubricate joints and supports healthy cartilage. For example, hearing certain noises that attract their attention or hearing their name can make them prick up their ears. Take advantage of this situation by praising them and providing a treat when they prick up their ears in response to this type of stimulus. They will associate pricking their ears up with getting a reward. Regularly Check for Parasites You also want to regularly check your dog out for parasites and ear mites. In addition, tapeworms and roundworms take away the essential nutrients your German Shepherd pup needs, which can ultimately cause poor health and other deficiencies. An ear mite infection can also cause your dog to itch, which causes them to shake their head excessively. Cartilage is extremely fragile and is prone to damage. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it can prove impossible for the ears to stand erect. However, keep in mind, this is invasive and does require your dog to go under anesthesia. They will also require pain medication following the surgery, and there will be a lengthy recovery time. Discuss Options with Your Vet You may want to consider having your vet make sure nothing is going on, like an ear infection. Some German Shepherds come from lines that carry genes that lead to floppier ears. Unfortunately, when genetics is the cause, there is little that owners can do aside from being more conscientious about ear health, which is a more significant concern in floppy-eared dogs. Many dogs from show lines, in particular, have larger ears that require more cartilage while the dog is growing to help support a more upright position. In many cases, these dogs will not have ears that stay upright. Broken Ear Cartilage German Shepherds can also end up with permanently floppy ears as a result of broken ear cartilage. This can happen in GSDs for a variety of reasons, including: Injuries. Well, there are a few different possible explanations. Causes can vary from age-related to genetic and medical issues. All puppies are born with soft, floppy ears. This is because the cartilage and muscles in their ears have not developed yet. Although some breeds, like Spaniels and Poodles, always have floppy ears, others, like most Shepherd breeds , almost always have pointy, pricked, upright ones. In such breeds, their ears should start to stand up between weeks of age as the bones and muscles in their bodies develop and strengthen. Are they both floppy — or is only one of them drooping whilst the other stands up normally? Teething Several young puppies experience floppy ears during teething. Teething is a period that all infant mammals go through, in which their baby or milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. It starts at around three weeks old and ends at months of age, although it can take longer. So, their bodies may draw calcium out of other areas, such as the ears, weakening their skeletal structure and making them flop. You may even notice that their ears look different every day during this period. They might be up-right one day, then floppy the next, or even change throughout the day depending on their mood. Their ears will return back to their original shape as soon as their hormones calm down. Although most German Shepherds have up-right ears, some can have floppy or semi-pricked ones. Judges of dog shows and competitions also often look for large ears in the breed. Poor nutrition during puppyhood As mentioned above, calcium is needed to develop and strengthen the cartilage in the ears in order for them to stand up. Vitamin D is also needed to keep bones healthy and strong. This is especially common in rescue dogs that come from puppy farms, homelessness, and neglectful backgrounds. Always buy from reputable breeders! Other symptoms of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies include muscle spasms and joint issues. If severe, nutrient deficiencies can be deadly. Both conditions require urgent veterinary attention, and treatments will likely include special diets and supplements. Similar to malnutrition, this is common in dogs that come from a background of neglect or homelessness. A build-up of wax, debris, or dirt can make the ears heavy and cause them to droop. Poor hygiene As we mentioned above, poor ear hygiene can lead to drooping of the ears. It can also lead to smelliness and infection. All dogs have self-cleaning mechanisms in their ears. However, allergies and hormone imbalances can cause disruptions to the mechanisms, meaning they require some extra care. Dogs can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, household cleaning products, and foods like wheat and dairy. Other symptoms of allergies can include skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and eyes, and stomach upsets. Each has different symptoms, but they often include drastic changes in energy, coat, thirst, appetite, and weight. German Shepherds are also particularly prone to experiencing hormonal disorders. Ear mites Another cause of ear drooping in German Shepherds is ear mites. Ear mites can be picked up outdoors, or from coming into contact with another animal with the condition. The inflammation from the infestation can cause droopiness in the affected ear. Other symptoms include excessive itchiness, and redness, bleeding, and swelling from the constant scratching. If left untreated, the infestation can cause disease, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Infection Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they can affect both the inner or outer ear. They are most often picked up after exposure to water, and the inflammation can cause the affected ear to droop. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, irritation, discharge, and excessive head shaking or scratching at the ear. Vets can treat ear infections with antibacterial or antifungal medications, but they need to be treated quickly before they spread or cause permanent damage. Trauma Physical trauma to the ears can also cause them to droop. The most common trauma that causes changes to the shape of the ears in German Shepherds are bites from fighting with other dogs. If your dog has a visible injury to their ear, you should take them to see their vet to check it over and dress any wounds to prevent infection. Make sure to brush your GSD regularly, also around the head and ears — these dogs shed heavily! You can get these over-the-counter at your vet, online, or in a pet store. You can also use a few drops of olive oil for wax build-up, but not too much. To administer, get a towel and ask your dog to lie down in a comfortable place in the home. Then, massage the mase of their ears for around 30 seconds to help it loosen any wax or dirt. Finally, allow your dog to shake their head and use the towel to catch what comes out. That said, if they have particularly problem ears, you should ask your vet and do it however often they suggest, which could be weekly or monthly. However, this is very controversial. It is not yet illegal in the USA, but it is also not something that we would recommend outside of medical necessity, as it can be unnecessarily stressful and painful for dogs. The method known as taping is done by placing something, usually tape, inside the ear to make it stand up straight and grow into that position permanently. It can be effective when done during puppyhood and usually takes weeks to work. As we mentioned above, nutritional deficiencies can cause the ears to flop. Puppies should eat nutritionally complete and balanced food that is enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and DHA for healthy bone and brain development, as well as high-quality protein sources like chicken and fish for strong muscles, and tasty, fiber-rich fruits and veggies. All puppies should have a handful of strong, hardy chew toys to avoid being destroyed during teething, but they can also help the ears to stand up. This is because the ears are connected to the jaw. So, strong jaw muscles means stronger ears, too! Finally, you should avoid playing too rough with your pup and interacting with boisterous dogs to prevent accidents and traumas, which, as we mentioned above, could damage or change the shape of their ears. Dogs communicate with us owners in many ways; they bark, they growl, and they use their bodies. Body language is a key part of understanding how your dog is feeling. Dogs use their entire bodies to communicate; including their tails, their eyes, and their ears! This often happens when a suspicious stranger or an unknown or unfriendly dog is approaching, or when there is a strange noise inside the home. When their ears go back or downwards, it could simply mean that they are listening, or it could indicate either excitement or anxiety. Excited dogs may whine, wag their tails very quickly, and run towards what they are excited about. This happens a lot when dogs are greeting a loved one. An anxious dog, on the other hand, may lower their head and cower their bodies away from what is causing their anxiety. If they are frightened, they may also tremble and whine, and if they are feeling angry or threatened, they may show their teeth and growl. This can happen when a dog is exposed to a phobia or an aggressive dog. It can be difficult to determine exactly how a mixed dog will look. Different pups from the same litter can also present with different traits from their siblings. That said, certain traits, like short hair, for example, are genetically dominant and therefore will be passed on over others, like long hair, which is genetically recessive. Dominant traits are those that require only one copy of a specific gene for the trait to be passed down to a pup. Recessive traits, on the other hand, need two copies; one from each parent. So, which is dominant; pricked or floppy ears? The answer is — floppy ears! Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears in dogs. That said, different ear shapes in dogs does tend to reflect their original working purpose. For example, the Spaniel, a gun dog, has floppy ears that gather and hold scent particles. This helped them track down what they were looking for much faster back in the day. German Shepherds, on the other hand, along with other wolf-like breeds, such as the Siberian Husky , have pricked, pointed ears. This is thought to aid their hearing during guard work, keep their body temperature under control during strenuous hunts, and give them an alert look to ward off predators. This may be why people are statistically more likely to perceive dogs with pricked ears as more threatening, according to research conducted by James Madison University, USA, in .This is not necessarily true, however, as any dog lover will know. It is likely down to something old and instinctual, as they also discovered that people perceived coat colors differently, too. The type of ears that a dog has can affect their hearing. Whether a dog has pricked ears or floppy ears, they have 18 different muscles that control them to funnel sounds from all different directions. A healthy-hearing dog of any kind can still hear from 40 to 60, hertz, which is more than double what human ears can hear! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.