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They prioritize helping potential pet parents find the perfect match for their homes or lifestyles. You can always reach out to them to see if they brought in a Maltipoo who needs a new home. They also provide training, socialization, and temperament pre-screenings before finalizing their adoptions. This non-profit rescue works with other organizations, including the Poodle Club of America, PetFinder, veterinary hospitals, and several local and regional animal shelters. They also accept donations to provide medical coverage for Maltipoos and other poodle hybrids. If you live near Naugatuck, this might be a viable option for you. For more information about their adoption process, call or email them at [email protected]. Metropolitan Maltese Rescue New York Metropolitan Maltese Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless Maltese and Maltese mixes, and placing them in permanent homes. They have over 20 years of experience. As a non-profit organization, they rely on foster care for each adoptable dog. Metropolitan Maltese Rescue collects information from potential adopters to help them determine which dog is best suited for their lifestyle. The rescue also has a permanent foster program to provide care for Maltese with behavioral or health conditions that prevent them from getting adopted. If you want to know if they have any Maltipoos available in their care, you can contact them at or [email protected]. A fully grown apricot color Maltipoo. Trending towards a tan or brown coat. Established in , they prioritize finding new homes for abused, unwanted, and abandoned poodles and poodle mixes. They provide extensive veterinary care for adoptable dogs, including spaying or neutering, vaccinations, medical procedures, and microchipping. Before placing poodle mixes in their forever homes, they match them with compatible families based on their temperament and other factors. Florida Poodle Rescue provides foster care for each dog they save. The duration of their foster care depends on their condition when they first arrived at the rescue. Some dogs might receive foster care for several days, while others might require months. During this period, Florida Poodle Rescue covers for veterinary and grooming expenses. This non-profit rescue relies on donations to pay for food, shelter, and medical care for poodles, Maltipoos, and other dogs in need. You can make a one-time donation or sign up for a recurring monthly payment to support their cause. If you want to let the rescue know you want a Maltipoo, it would be best to indicate this specification on your application by selecting you want a mix instead of a purebred. If you want to know more about their available dogs, you can contact them at or [email protected]. They prioritize rescuing and rehoming poodles and poodle mixes. Their adoption fees differ based on the type of dog you want to adopt. Typically, adoption fees for standard poodles and their mixes cost more than miniature or toy mixes. If you want to know more about their services and available dogs, contact them at before filling out your application. What a super cute Maltipoo puppy! Despite its name, the rescue accepts all types of dogs. They also prioritize giving senior and special needs dogs the attention, medical coverage, and love they deserve. Carolina Poodle Rescue houses over dogs, including several poodle mixes. Their adoption process does its best to find out what type of dog you want, how it matches your lifestyle, among other factors. After your application gets approved, you should prepare your trip to Dreamweaver Farms, Pacolet, South Carolina, to pick them up and take them home. They do rescue operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia and specialize in finding homes for poodles and any poodle mix small breed dog. Many of these dogs experienced numerous hardships, including abandonment and life on the streets. No matter the circumstances, they always try to help. Although surrendered poodle mixes have recorded health records, dogs with no apparent medical history get thoroughly examined and vaccinated before going to a new home. Adopting an adult Maltipoo is more common than a Maltipoo puppy. With so many poodle mixes rescued, you might find a perfect puppy who wants a new home. If you live in Maryland, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, feel free to contact them at or [email protected]. The American Maltese Association Rescue implements foster care for adoptable dogs to keep them socialized and healthy before finding potential adopters. They rescue Maltese mixes from several unfortunate situations. If you want to ask about Maltipoos that might be available, contact a coordinator closest to your area. Virginia, Delaware, N. Carolina, and Washington D. There are several advantages of adopting a Maltipoo, including companionship and reducing loneliness. You could also see if other Poodle Mix dogs are available. Check out the best Goldendoodle rescues and best Cockapoo rescues in America. You Give Them Another Chance at Life When you adopt a Maltipoo, or any dog, regardless of pedigree or background, you give unwanted or neglected dogs another chance at life. When you adopt them from a rescue or shelter, you remove rejection, stress, and euthanization. Whether you take in a young or old Maltipoo, you keep them from becoming another statistic of animals lost per year. A fully grown cream colored Maltipoo. They tend to be affectionate dogs who love attention and staying by your side. Although they are small, they can exert as much energy as larger breeds. Things to Consider Before Adopting a Maltipoo Adopting a dog is a life-changing experience for many new pet owners and families. However, it would be wise to consider several components before deciding on adopting one of these adorable bundles of energy. Their typical lifespan ranges between 10 to 15 years. A balanced diet and exercise routine typically leads to a longer life for Maltipoos. They keep a simple life and eat basic dry dog food kibble, high in protein even chicken and limited carbs like sweet potato. Maltipoo food requirementss are similar to any other small dog and they eat aboiut the same amount as a Toy Poodle. Temperament People revere Maltipoos for their friendly, outgoing nature, but they might not be appropriate for specific lifestyles. Spending extended periods at a shelter might also amplify its instability. Maltipoos are amn intelligent adult dog but might be stubborn while practicing some training routines. Some energetic dogs might show signs of hyperactivity if not adequately stimulated. Grooming Your Maltipoo Many people get Maltipoos because of their reputation as hypoallergenic dogs. They require regular brushing to prevent fur matting. Family Size Although Maltipoos are friendly dogs, not every small dog acts the same way. Maltipoos might not be suitable for small children due to their size and excitability. Conclusion Although it might be challenging to find an organization catering to saving Maltipoos, several rescues and shelters take in many dogs, including rescues dedicated to helping Maltese and poodles. These are popular dogs and it is fa more common toa dopt one from a Maltipoo breeder — so you may need to be patient. Adopting a Maltese puppy from a specialized Maltese dog rescue is a great way to find adorable Maltese puppies for less. Maltese dog rescues specialize in saving lost, abused, or unwanted Maltese and finding better homes for them. Although most of the dogs they rescue are older than 1 year, they often have Maltese puppies available, just ask! This fee usually includes spaying or neutering, current vaccinations, a heartworm test, and grooming. Although it may take a bit of patience, another great way to help disadvantaged Maltese dogs and get a good deal is to visit your local animal shelter. If they don't currently have any Maltese puppies, check back often or ask them to contact you as soon as they get one in. It's definitely worth the wait! Cost of a Maltese Puppy from an Animal Shelter Maltese puppies for adoption from your local animal shelter usually cost less than getting one from a specialized Maltese dog rescue. Find Adorable Maltese Puppies for Adoption from a Shelter The easiest way to find Maltese puppies this way, is to use this comprehensive search tool to find your local animal shelter. If you still can't find a purebred Maltese puppy, consider adopting a Maltese mix puppy. Maltese mixes generally have many of the same characteristics of pure bred Maltese and can sometimes be even healthier. I have both a Maltese and a Maltese Poodle mix and I have to say that my Maltipoo is just as loving and even smarter than my purebred Maltese. With so many unique Maltese mixes to choose from, there's sure to be one that's right for you. What is included in this fee varies depending on where or who you are adopting from. Find Out if a Maltese Mix is Right For You Discover if a Maltese mix is right for you by viewing pictures and seeing what other owners have to say about their Maltese mix dogs. They are usually low quality and can come from unreputable breeders. DON'T try to cut a deal with a Maltese dog breeder. If you pay less than their usual fee, the puppy may be the runt of the litter or have significant health problems. DON'T buy the cheapest puppy you can find. They are usually unhealthy and living in horrible conditions in puppy mills. Research, get referrals, and investigate any place you are thinking of purchasing a Maltese puppy from. If you so, let us know how you did it! Please tell other Maltese Maniacs how you found your Maltese puppy, how much he or she cost, and where you went to adopt your puppy. Just type! Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story. TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. Click the button and find it on your computer. Then select it. Your Name. Vocality level 5 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 Lively, loving and loyal are just a few positive terms used to describe the Maltipoo. While they are absolutely a lap dog and love to sit and receive attention, they are also always up for a play session! They love to run around and chase toys and appreciate a friend to throw the ball for them. They tend to get along with children and even enjoy playing with these smaller humans! Maltipoos can usually cohabitate with other pets, but a deciding factor on whether they get along well with other animals may depend on how well they were socialized at a young age. Upkeep The Maltipoo is a little ball of energy! You can fill their day with fun by allowing them to socialize with other dogs with a proper introduction , engage in a game of fetch, or include some training games to keep their brain busy. Challenging your Maltipoo mentally will keep them out of trouble! Consider participating in obedience training so your Maltipoo will be mentally satisfied AND well behaved! Maltipoos are the perfect size for apartment living as long as their physical needs are met daily. They do have a voice and they like to use it, so they might not be ideal if you have noise restrictions. They do not shed a lot, but their coat needs consistent brushing daily, if possible to keep it from matting. They need haircuts a few times a year and may need the fur around their face clipped more often than the fur on their body. They also need their nails trimmed regularly, their ears cleaned as needed, and their teeth brushed consistently! The Maltipoo has one primary job—to be your cute and cuddly best friend. They do this job very well! They were conceived as a companion dog for people who suffer from allergies. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, some may produce less dander and allergens, making them a better choice for a family that is trying to manage allergies. These little fluff balls are gaining more and more popularity over time due to their extremely charming personalities, and of course their teddy-bear looks. Related Content.

This hybrid dog is known to be even-tempered, friendly to its favorite people, intelligent, and extremely loyal. Basenji German Shepherd mixes are medium- to large-sized dogs with an athletic stance. Early exposure to new faces and scents helps them mellow down their guarding instincts, especially knowing that their parent breeds are known for their wariness toward people. When around their family, this mixed breed is up for games and various activities such as hiking. However, as much as they love having company, these canines also need their alone time. Basenji German Shepherd Mix Origin and History As with several other mixed-breed canines, there need to be more records showing how the Basenji Shepherd mix came about. Whether they resulted due to intentional breeding or by accident is unknown. The only clear way to better understand the roots of the Basenji German Shepherd mix is to learn a bit more about its parents. For starters, the Basenji is an ancient hunting breed that originates from Central Africa. They closely resembled the dogs depicted in Ancient Egypt and were thought to be offered as gifts to Pharaohs. It was in when the United States had its first glimpse of this yodeling pooch. The Basenji achieved full recognition as an official dog breed three years later. Meanwhile, as the name suggests, the German Shepherd Dog comes from Germany. Their history and development were largely influenced by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who pursued creating a versatile herding dog. Eventually, they were modified from farm dogs to military dogs, especially during World War I. In they became an official breed in the United States. Regardless, the resulting dog is outstanding and worth the effort. Often, they resemble a lot like German Shepherds, but taking a closer look will get you to notice the subtle features of a Basenji. However, this also depends on whether the German Shepherd parent has a short , medium, or long coat. They can also have the isabella, blue, panda , black, sable, liver, or tri-color pattern of the German Shepherd, albeit rare. A white patch on the chest may also show, along with a few blotches on their belly and legs. Other possible colors include red, cream, and mahogany. They fall somewhere between the upright ears of the Basenji and the occasional floppy ears of the German Shepherd. Their height varies but can be between 15 and 21 inches. Generally, these canines are predicted to be larger than their typical Basenji parent but smaller than their German Shepherd parent. Their wider gene pool makes it difficult to predict their specific proportions and how long they will be fully grown. Their affectionate and loving traits make them naturally protective when there is a need to be. While they may have occasional outbursts of energy, Basenji Shepherds may sometimes resort to a corner to recharge. Long periods of boredom and lack of physical or mental stimulation may lead to separation anxiety and destructive behaviors. Basenji German Shepherd Mix Lifespan and Health Issues The diversity in the genetic pool of the Basenji German Shepherd mix allows them to live a good lifespan that ranges between 7 and 15 years. This is even more guaranteed, provided they have healthy lifestyles and routine health check-ups. Still, mixed breeds stay prone to several health problems that their parent breeds are predisposed to. The following are the prominent health issues found in the Basenji Shepherd mix: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia occurs more often in dogs with larger proportions. This can lead to pain and dysfunction through arthritis and limited mobility. This occurs in both eyes, with a likelihood of triglycerides and cholesterol deposits forming in the connective tissue of the cornea. The deeper areas it affects, the more swelling and pain can be felt, which may require surgery. Patellar Luxation: Patellar luxation may occur as a result of physical injury. This skeletal abnormality involves having their kneecap slip out of its proper place due to a knee injury. In some cases, this condition may also be inherited. You must know the prominent health problems a Basenji Shepherd is at risk of acquiring or developing. Many of these issues can be prevented early on, diagnosed, and treated before they worsen. Always take your pooch for regular vet check-ups and pair this with a healthy lifestyle and nurturing environment. Also, invest in pet insurance for unexpected vet bills that may come along the way. Read more below to be guided on the basic requirements of a Basenji German Shepherd mix. This means feeding your Basenji Shepherd with food that is free from harmful preservatives. Typically, they need to be fed 1 to 3. Meanwhile, at least ten percent of their total calorie intake consists of treats, which can either be frozen fruits, tidbits of meat, or even crackers. Other owners opt for a raw diet called BARF for their dogs, but there are considerations you have to be aware of. You can also check out our guide on how much food to feed a German Shepherd for more references and helpful tips. Cleaning and Grooming The frequency of grooming your Basenji German Shepherd mix depends on their coat type. However, if their German Shepherd ancestry is more prominent in their coat, more tedious grooming is required. Baths may be done every 3 to 4 months or whenever necessary. In addition, make it a habit to brush their teeth 2 to 3 times a week. Their nails should also be trimmed when long or if you hear clicking noises as they walk on the floor. This helps maintain their good posture. Check their ears as well for any signs of infection. Their ear wax color can tell a lot, which may require an emergency visit to the vet. Ear cleaning in dogs must be done with caution by using sanitary materials. This suggests that they need to be mentally stimulated regularly by giving them tasks. Teaching them basic commands, obedience, potty training, and other forms of training come off easy with positive reinforcements. Basenji Shepherds can also participate in lure coursing, dog agility, and rally obedience for advanced training. Meanwhile, during playtime, these furry companions can be seen running around the yard or actively participating in the game of fetch. At least 60 minutes of daily exercise is required to keep them fit and happy. Divide this period into two shorter sessions. You can take them for walks, jogging, hikes, or runs. This also allows them to explore their outside environment. Aside from this one-time payment, there are other recurring expenses you should be prepared for. Puppies require a few essential items, such as a suitable dog bed, treats, water and food bowls, a dog collar, and more. The table below shows a list of the initial expenses associated with owning a Basenji German Shepherd mix: Type of Expense. The German Shepherd Breed German Shepherd dogs are renowned for their incredible intelligence, bravery, reliability, and immense loyalty to those they trust. This breed strikes an iconic appearance with graceful curves and a muscular, agile form. The large dog is renowned for its willingness to risk its life for the sake of others, which has made them famous as guard dogs and loyal companions. German Shepherds are known for being a good fit for experienced pet owners who are willing to provide a lot of activity, exercise, and enrichment. The Basenji Breed The Basenji is easily recognizable by its compact, adorable appearance. Originating from Africa, the Basenji is a unique hound-type dog with a shiny, short coat and a cute curled tail. A wrinkled forehead and emotive eyes also make the Baseni often seem to display human-like emotions! Basenji dogs are very fastidious creatures, with a tendency to groom themselves a lot and be picky, poised, and somewhat demanding. This means that the breeds can mix together in a vast number of different ways. A German Shepenji can bear an equal resemblance to both of its parents or most to just one of them. Even puppies within the same litter of this mix may not look like siblings at all. Size: Basenjis are compact dogs, and German Shepherds are large. When mixed, the results can be anywhere from a relatively small pup to a bigger one, depending on how genes are transferred. In general, you can expect a Basenji German Shepherd mix to have a height of between 45 and 55 cm for males and 40 and 50 cm for females. In other words, the mix loses the larger size of the German Shepherd, going to a more compact appearance. You can expect a German Shepenji to weigh anywhere from 22 to 90 pounds, depending on their specific height and length. Grooming Requirements: The coat that a Basenji German Shepherd mix ends up with can depend on each dog. However, mostly, you should expect moderate requirements for grooming. Here are some aspects of grooming to keep in mind. Brushing German Shepherds have medium double coats with a soft undercoat and a close-lying, harsh, and dense outer coat. Brushing is easy, and the coat is simple to maintain, needing about one or two brushing per week to get rid of dirt and loose hair. Basenjis, on the other hand, have a very short coat that needs just a quick brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt per week to distribute healthy oils. As such, a mix of the two breeds will likely require a couple of brushes per week, with occasional shedding depending on the thickness of the coat. No clipping of fur is required. A German Shepenji will, therefore, not need frequent baths either. Too much bathing is likely to dry out its skin and cause irritation. Trimming and grinding down these nails is crucial to ensure that their walking is not affected by too-long nails. Expect that level of necessary care for a mix of the two breeds, too. Strength: Basenjis and German Shepherds are both highly athletic and energetic dogs. As such, a German Shepenji is typically quite strong for its size, though this will depend on the individual dog. These dogs, while not as strong as their Shepherd parents, can use their high energy to pull, push, or carry items that can seem impressive for their smaller stature! Speed: Once again, we have to look at the athleticism of both Basenji and German Shepherd dogs. Both of them love to run and burn off their energy at quick speeds. Just like with strength, a mix of these breeds will lose some of the iconic speed of their Shepherd parents but will maintain an impressive rush for their size. Basenji German Shepherd mixes can be wonderful family dogs, but they need to be trained well first, especially if there will be very young children around. These dogs can have sharp and unpredictable personalities, so proper socialization and training is needed from a young age to allow them to be good family dogs. When trained well, a German Shepenji can be a fierce protector and loving guardian of its loved ones. Both parent breeds form deep, close bonds with their owners and families, so you can expect the same from the mixed mutt. With that being said, the Shepenji is one of the few exceptions to that rule. Health: Both German Shepherds and Basenjis have their fair share of health concerns, as do most purebred dogs. The benefit of mutts is that they often have stronger protection against the breed-related troubles of their parents. German Shepherds are at risk for: Hip dysplasia.

Although the collar has been more common over the centuries, sledding dogs of the frozen North and drafting dogs like the Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog have been harnessed to pull sleds and carts since the 18th century. However, the medical data available to us now shows the full extent of damage a collar can cause your dog. This may result in a severe trachea injury, hypothyroidism, ear, eye, and nerve damage. Therefore, a harness is far safer for your pup than a collar. What if my dog pulls on a harness? According to the PDSA PAW report , about a quarter of all owners who adopt a dog from a shelter complain that leash pulling as the most common behavioral problem they face. This is certainly a frustrating issue that can drain all the fun out of walking your dog. The simplest method to deal with a pulling dog is to use an excellent no-pull harness. In addition, behavioral modification through positive training techniques can work together with your harness to keep your dog walking calmly and politely at your side. How do I know for sure what size harness to buy for my dog? Just like clothes for humans, companies that make and sell dog harnesses can differ in their parameters for a specific size. For instance, a Chihuahua will probably be an extra-small size while Great Dane will probably be—you guessed it— extra-large. But dogs can vary wildly within the breed. There are some giant Labs out there and some confusingly small German Shepherds. Not to mention mix breeds, designer dogs, and mutts that can come in any shape or size. Another point to keep in mind is that dogs also vary according to gender. This means that while your male Samoyed might fit happily in a large harness, your female Samoyed might well need a medium one. Therefore, selecting a harness based on breed alone can be misleading and result in purchasing the wrong product altogether. It is essential to only use the breed chart only as a general guideline. One should also be aware that certain breeds are bred to extremes, and finding a harness that fits them can be a challenge. A Boerboel or a Neapolitan Mastiff can easily tip the scales at pounds, making them too big for many harness brands. If in doubt, contact the company first to ensure they have a harness that will fit your dog. Which harness size should I buy for my puppy? A further consideration is what harness to buy for puppies. For example, what size harness should you buy for a Golden Retriever puppy? A large breed like the Golden Retriever will undoubtedly grow out of multiple harnesses by the time it is full-grown. A post shared by Dogs Pets Puppies goldenretrieverpuppys It may need a small or a medium-size from between four and five months and will likely graduate to large when it has reached eight months. Keep in mind this is only a general guideline, and puppies can vary in growth curves just as much as human children do. This is usually just behind his elbows. Simply take a tape measure the circumference of its chest from the withers and around the ribcage at the most extended point. This means starting at the end of the tape at the top of the shoulders and circling the tape around the largest portion of the ribcage to where it meets at the shoulders again. How do I weigh my dog? For most dog owners, the easiest way to weigh your dog is to step onto the bathroom scale and weigh yourself. Then get off and climb on again, this time holding your pooch. Of course, if you happen to own a four-pound Teacup Bichon Frise, you can probably make use of your kitchen scales and it would be adorable. On the other hand, some of us own dogs that are far too big to pick up, at least without slipping a disc. In this case, the best thing to do is to go in to see your vet, who will be able to weigh your dog with their specialized veterinary scales. Dog Harness sizes by breeds For an idea of where your dog might fit on the size, weight, and breed scale, you can study the PawSafe dog harness measurement guidelines below for their no-pull harness , which is also designed to work with a doggy seatbelt to keep your pup safe while traveling. Here are some essential points that every owner should consider when purchasing the harness for their beloved one. Measure Your Golden Retriever For A Harness It is one of the most important steps that owners should take, no matter whether your golden retriever is in puppyhood or adulthood. Just measure the fullest part of your doggo chest behind their front legs, and make sure whenever you measure your dog chest, they must be standing on a flat surface. Once you determine that, and the size showing somewhere between small and larger sizes, consider the large one, as it will be more suitable for your puppy. Quality Material Material is something you must look into whenever you buy harnesses, collars, leash, bandanas, etc. The harness must be made of breathable and lightweight material. Plus, a lightweight harness helps your puppy feel light and airy whenever she wears the harness. Customizable It is always good to use harnesses that can be easily adjustable according to the needs of your golden retriever. A Customizable harness allows perfect fit along the belly and chest area and back, which is essential for the dog that pulls a lot during the walk. Basically, a well-fitted harness helps to keep the puppy or adult dog in control to prevent any mishappenings in a crowded place. Puppy Behavior Golden retrievers are a High-energy sporting breed, and that sporting instinct sometimes encourages them to chase moving things on walks, and it can be anything like a ball, squirrels, etc. Hence if you know the behavior and temperament of your Golden pup, it will help you get the best harness for them. This means if our golden pup pulls a lot, then you can use anti-pull harnesses. These harnesses are typically known as Front Clip Harness. With these anti-pull harnesses, your pup can quickly learn not to pull on the leash. On the other hand, if the pup has a good temperament, you can use the regular harness. Safety Features Never give safety a day off! And look for harnesses whose straps are made of a thick and durable material like polyester and nylon. However, you can use fabric harnesses for puppies, as they are not strong pullers. Typically harnesses come with two attachment points, either at the front clip near the chest or the back clip. So in case, your goldie is a heavy puller, you can go with the harness that has a front attachment point that helps prevent any pulling action. While if your goldie has a calm temperament, you can choose a harness with a back attachment point. However, many harnesses come with dual-clip attachment points both back and front. I use them too for each of my dogs. Ergonomic Design Pick the harness that slips on or off your puppy in seconds. Usually, the harness comes in two designs, either step-in design or overhead design. The step-in design is the one where your puppies have to put their front legs into it to wear. Both of the harnesses are pretty easy to take on or off on puppies or adult golden retrievers. So choose the one that eases you the most. Harnesses that have highly reflective strips are excellent to use at night time or early in the morning. People who live in the tropical region often prefer to walk with their puppies either at night or early in the morning due to high temperatures. So whether you pick a dual-clip, step-in, overhead, or adjustable harness, just make sure it has highly reflective straps for added safety.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Developed way back in the 13th century in the United Kingdom, these jaunty pups are the fourth most popular breed of pooch in the United States. However, you may be wondering what kind of English Bulldog colors or coat patterns there are to pick from. What follows are the top 10 English Bulldog color choices to select from. Standard English Bulldog Colors: English Bulldogs come in 8 main standard colors, although these can be mixed and matched into different combinations, like Piebald and Tri-color. When you picture a Bully, your mind probably immediately conjures up this traditional coat pattern. Brindle English Bulldogs have a striped pattern in conjunction with a different colored base. The brindle will show up as tiger-esque stripes for a unique, defined appearance. Fawn or Fallow English Bulldog A post shared by chanelxgivenchy Seen as a color in clothing and furnishings, fawn is also a popular color for dogs , including the English Bulldog. This light tannish yellow color has many different shades, ranging from a pale tan to a deep deer red. Fun fact: the first recorded use of fawn as a color name was in in England, exactly where your Bully originated from! White English Bulldog.

One night he became quite agitated, and I attributed it to a bitch in season. By the next morning, his condition was too far gone to save him. Emergency surgery saved her life. I had a gastropexy done right then to ensure she would not have a repeat GDV episode. Frannie lived a healthy life, recently dying at age .The third most popular breed in the country based on registrations with the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd Dog may be the No. Traditionally, it has been thought that GDV occurs when the stomach fills like a balloon with gas, a process known as gastric dilatation. As bloat progresses, the gas-filled stomach twists degrees clockwise on its side, cutting off an escape for the gas through the esophagus or duodenum. This is gastric dilatation-volvulus. A profound distension of the stomach compresses vital blood vessels and organs in the abdomen and reduces oxygen to those organs causing a life-threatening condition as tissue death and toxins are released into the bloodstream. As the gastric pressure increases, critical blood supplies to both the stomach and the whole circulation are cut off sending a dog into shock. Rozanski says. Deep-chested large and giant breeds are vulnerable to bloat. As the gas builds in the stomach, a dog becomes increasingly uncomfortable. Owners may notice their dog pacing, panting, retching unsuccessfully, or standing stiffly with a hunched back. Clinical signs include a distended abdomen, pale gums, and a weak, rapid pulse. Emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and check for dead tissue provides the best outcome for dogs with GDV. Prior to surgery a veterinarian must stabilize a dog by relieving the pressure from the gas in the stomach and treating a dog for shock with intravenous fluids. As with Frannie, gastropexy is always performed during emergency surgery to prevent GDV from recurring. Gastropexy involves tacking the stomach to the right side of the abdominal wall to prevent future shifting or twisting of the stomach. A minimally invasive procedure, gastropexy is recommended to be done prophylactically at a young age, particularly in dogs having a parent, littermate or half-sibling that has bloated. At many clinics, a veterinarian performs a gastropexy laparoscopically using two to three incisions and cameras to help guide the procedure. When dogs die before GDV surgery can be performed, it is primarily due to shock and cardiovascular instability. Rozanski and Claire R. Their review, published in in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine , signaled decreased oxygen to tissues caused by cardiovascular dysfunction as setting in motion a systemic state known as multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Dysfunction can affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, coagulation, and renal systems. Additionally, Dr. Awareness of the potential for multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and aggressive supportive care are essential to maximize the chances for a successful outcome for dogs with GDV. While prophylactic gastropexy may decrease the prevalence of GDV in susceptible breeds, it does not eliminate the risk for mesenteric volvulus. Mesenteric volvulus occurs when the small intestine twists around the mesentery root that provides nutrients to the intestines. Although rare, mesenteric volvulus is almost always fatal. A study published in found an inverse relationship between decreased GDV cases due to prophylactic gastropexy surgery and increased incidence of mesenteric volvulus. The retrospective study looked at 54 mesenteric volvulus cases and controls to determine potential risk factors for the disorder in military working dogs treated at the Holland Military Working Dog Hospital at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Predisposing risk factors included breed type, specifically German Shepherd Dog, increasing age, and history of gastrointestinal disease, gastropexy or other abdominal surgeries. Because GDV had been a longstanding cause of death or reason for euthanasia of military working dogs, in the U. Comparatively, there were cases of GDV from to before the policy went into effect, 95 cases from to , and 11 cases from to .During the same timeframe, six incidents of mesenteric volvulus were reported from to , 12 cases from to , and 48 cases from to .The link between gastropexy and mesenteric volvulus is unclear, the authors stressed. Thus, the benefit of gastropexy in preventing GDV likely outweighs the risk of the rare condition mesenteric volvulus, they said. It is considered a complex, multifactorial disorder with genetic and environmental influences. German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts suspect that bloat may occur more frequently in some bloodlines. An article of their findings about genetic susceptibility factors in large and giants breeds, which have a lifetime risk for bloat of 3. The genome-wide association study GWAS of dogs from 10 breeds included dogs that had experienced at least one GDV episode and healthy control dogs. Single nucleotide polymorphism SNP array genotyping followed by imputation of common genetic variation was performed on samples to identify GDV-associated SNPs and copy number variations. The 10 breeds represented were: Borzoi .Lead investigator Dr. We identified a potentially protective intergenic SNP, minor allele G, that appears across all breeds and that is particularly important in Collies, German Shorthaired Pointers and Great Danes. Sharp and Dr. Rozanski along with colleagues looked at the hospital records of dogs that bloated from September to April to understand why dogs die prior to surgery in an effort to account for preoperative nonsurvival. We found that financial reasons were a major risk factor in nonsurvival. Of the nonsurviving dogs, were euthanized and 30 died. Of those euthanized, were euthanized prior to surgery without the intent to treat. Given the rate of GDV nonsurvival due to nontreatment, efforts at disease prevention may be the best way to improve disease mortality. She had very tight ligamenture and abdominal muscles. She was happy, well-adjusted, and not a nervous or anxious dog. I look for lines with longevity and those free of GDV for one or two generations. Maybe all German Shepherd Dogs are somewhat genetically at risk. The German Shepherd has played many roles over the years including, among others: herding sheep, military field work, search and rescue, guide dog and police dog. This is a life threatening condition where the stomach rotates on its axis, cutting off the passage of food and water, and inhibiting circulation to the stomach and intestines. Bloat generally occurs in large, deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands but has been seen in small dogs on rare occasions. Patients typically present with non-productive retching, restlessness and abdominal discomfort. The first signs of bloat may include a distended stomach, retching, or dry heaving. If these symptoms are seen, immediate medical attention must be sought! The cause of the GDV is unknown, it is thought to have multiple contributing factors. That is the million-dollar question. No one knows the exact cause of why bloat happens; however large breed, deep chested dogs are more likely to bloat than other breeds. In some cases, eating or drinking large amounts and then being active is thought to cause bloat. There is also thought that eating out of elevated food dishes may increase chances of GDV as dogs may swallow more air when eating. Factors Suspected to Increase the Risk of Bloat Feeding one meal per day Breed of dog Feeding a dry diet Sex of dog: Male dogs seem to be at a higher risk Age: Older dogs, between the ages of years, seem to be at a higher risk Exercising immediately after a meal Factors Suspected to Decrease the Risk of Bloat Feeding canned dog food Feeding two or more meals per day No exercise for several hours after a meal What Does Bloat Look Like? Dogs with bloat can be restless and unable to get comfortable or lay down. They can have very distended abdomens that can be very painful. They may also have very fast heart rates and changes in breathing. In severe cases, they may collapse or be unable to stand. It is very important that if you see any of these signs that you have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. As veterinarians we understand that each dog can show different variations of these signs; if there is any concern an owner can always call a veterinary clinic and ask their opinion. Why is Bloat an Emergency? Bloat sets off a cascade of damaging events to the body. As the stomach fills with air it expands and starts to cut off blood returning to the heart. The expansion of the stomach then puts pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult for the dog to breath. The stomach then starts to rotate cutting off the blood supply to the stomach. When the stomach rotates it can entrap the spleen and thus cause damage or cut off blood supply to the spleen and even rupture blood vessels. All of these changes lead to the dog going into shock. Blood pressure drops, arrhythmias and internal bleeding can occur as well as sepsis. Unfortunately, death can occur in a matter of hours if bloat goes undetected and untreated. All of these changes happen very quickly, which is why it is so important for an owner to recognize the signs of bloat and get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment Emergency veterinary medical attention must be sought for treatment of bloat. Unfortunately, there is nothing that an owner can do at home. Abdominal x-rays are the most reliable way to assess stomach position and diagnose bloat. Stabilization of the patient and diagnostics must be performed immediately. These dogs require pain medication and intravenous fluids. Surgical intervention is a necessary step in the treatment of bloat and should be done as soon as the patient is stable enough to undergo anesthesia and surgery. During a bloat circulation can be compromised and other abdominal organs, such as the spleen or intestines, may be affected, as a result the spleen may also need to be removed in some cases. Bloat, requires a multiple day stay in the hospital for post-operative care and recovery. If not treated by a veterinarian immediately, bloat can be fatal. Most dogs who are diagnosed and treated early in the development of bloat recover from surgery and can lead a normal life. The surgery consists of de-rotating the stomach back to its normal position and then tacking it to the body wall. This is called a gastropexy. If the spleen was involved in the twisting, then it may have to be removed as well. Even after the surgery is performed these dogs are not out of the woods. There are many complications that can still arise after surgery and it is very common for these dogs to be in the hospital for multiple days. Preventing Bloat Recommendations for preventing bloat are feeding several small meals a day, discouraging drinking large amounts of water at one time, allowing some time between eating and activity, and feeding on the floor. Hopefully knowing some of these preventative tips will decrease the chances of your furry family member bloating; however, if you see the signs listed above do not wait! Get your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Ideally call ahead so they know you are coming and can plan for your arrival. Time is of the essence. Some German Shepherds become constipated. But, any unusual changes to their regular eating and digestion routines can be a sign of an upset stomach. An upset stomach in German Shepherd puppies is more concerning. Do German Shepherds get upset stomachs frequently? Although German Shepherds are energetic and active dogs, they frequently experience digestive issues. Stomach distress and gastrointestinal issues are among the most frequent health issues found in German Shepherds. Due to their genetic history and poor selective breeding, German Shepherds are more susceptible to digestive issues. German Shepherds may experience stomach upset anywhere from several times per week to just once per month or less. The good news? Additionally, understanding what to give your German Shepherd if they have a stomach ache will help both of you live less stressful and anxious lives. Feed your German Shepherd a bland diet for 2 to 3 days. A diet for German Shepherd with upset stomach is typically a bland diet which may help to soothe their digestive system and ease their discomfort. Bland foods are easier for your dog to digest, which can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in their digestive tract. A bland diet often consists of low-fat, high-protein meals that are simple to digest, such as boiled chicken and white rice. Once the rice and chicken are fully cooked, mix them together. Let the mixture cool down to room temperature before feeding it to your dog. Feed your dog small meals of the bland diet throughout the day, instead of one large meal. This recipe should only be used for a short period of time as a bland diet, typically days or as advised by a veterinarian. Give smaller, more frequent meals to your German shepherd. German Shepherds are notorious for never slowing down during mealtimes. Their stomachs frequently suffer as a result of this hasty indulgence. Remove a few handfuls of their usual food from their feedings. Next, add 1 or 2 extra feedings spaced evenly throughout the day in addition to their regular number of meals. Be sure to not overfeed your dog! The digestive tract only has to handle small amounts of food at a time when meals are spread out across small portions throughout the day. Use slow-feeding bowls to reduce gulping and overeating, especially for German Shepherd puppies. This is particularly helpful for German Shepherds that have a tendency to eat too quickly or get upset stomachs after eating. The bowl typically has ridges, mazes, or other obstacles that make it more difficult for the dog to access the food, which forces them to eat more slowly and be more mindful of their eating habits. Using a slow feeder bowl can be beneficial for German Shepherds with upset stomachs for several reasons: Prevents indigestion and nausea When a German Shepherd eats too quickly, it can cause indigestion and nausea, which may worsen an upset stomach. Encourages healthy eating habits Using a slow feeder bowl can also encourage your German Shepherd to practice healthy eating habits. Eating too quickly can lead to obesity, bloating, and other health problems. Slowing down their eating can improve their overall health and may decrease the risk of bloat. Promotes mental stimulation Slow-feeder bowls can also provide your GSD with additional mental stimulation during mealtimes. Often, the process of eating too quickly can become a habit for dogs, but using a puzzle bowl can keep a German Shepherd engaged and mentally stimulated while they eat, which can reduce boredom and stress. Protects against gastric torsion bloat Additionally, slow-feeder bowls can also help prevent gastric torsion, also known as bloat. Bloat is a life-threatening stomach problem in German Shepherds that occurs when the stomach stretches and twists on itself. This emergency may be caused by overeating, eating too quickly, or drinking too much water. Plus, it give your intelligent dog mental stimulation during mealtimes. My GSD usually finishes her dog food from a standard food dish in about five minutes. She takes three times longer to finish her meal when using a slow-feeding dish, though! The best slow feeder bowls, like this affordable groove-shaped dish , feature lots of turns and grooves. The food is moved around more slowly in the intricate arrangements. This means that your dog eats her meals slowly rather than gulping them down from a regular food dish. Keep fatty foods and table leftovers away from your German Shepherd. We want to keep them healthy, but that sweet face just pushes us to drop a piece of tasty food—or two, or three! However, table scraps or fatty foods should never be given to German Shepherds who are prone to stomach discomfort. Your dog may not always eat what you like. Some foods that people eat can make our dogs sick. Oily or fried foods are even worse for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs! Table scraps can also cause a dog to need the bathroom more frequently because some human foods might cause digestive problems in your German Shepherd. The greasier the food, the worse their stomach upset will be. Healthy treat alternative: Gentle belly treats While some human foods, such as green beans and sliced carrots, are healthy choices when given as a little treat and in moderation, dogs with sensitive digestion or upset stomachs should avoid all human foods to prevent stomach issues. Choose snacks that are specially formulated for delicate digestion, such as these Blue Buffalo Skin and Stomach Care Treats , which are calming and mild and include few chemicals. Overfeeding treats can make your German Shepherd less inclined to eat their more nutritionally sound dog food and exacerbate stomach issues. Always keep fresh water available for your German Shepherd all day. When your German Shepherd experiences stomach discomfort, remember how crucial it is to stay hydrated. Make sure your GSD always has access to fresh, clean water to drink. Dehydration and the loss of vital electrolytes can result from diarrhea. Then, to reduce the amount of water my German Shepherd consumes throughout the day, I give her ice cubes in a bowl with a small amount of water to sip. She tends to link the ice cubes which gives her a slow release of water without overwhelming her sick belly. The most important thing is to make sure they are drinking enough to prevent dehydration. If your German Shepherd stops drinking water altogether, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Unhealthy bacteria in the gut are removed when your German Shepherd has diarrhea , but regrettably, healthy flora is also wiped off. The imbalanced bacteria can lead to stomach issues. Over-the-counter remedies for German Shepherd stomach issues, such as supplements for gut sensitivities or probiotics, may help realign and rebalance an upset stomach. What probiotic is best for a German Shepherd? So what is the best probiotic for a German Shepherd with an upset stomach? Choose a product with a variety of beneficial bacteria for the optimum effect on the digestive system. Know what else? Feed your German Shepherd sensitive dog food. German Shepherds can greatly benefit from eating foods that are made specifically to lessen their stomach sensitivities. A smart choice for their dog food is one made for sensitive stomachs. There are dog food formulas that contain probiotics and prebiotics, while others provide balanced fiber for firmer stools. What kind of sensitive dog food should I give a German Shepherd? Setting your German Shepherd up with high-quality food can help avoid tummy troubles in the future. To keep your dog regular, a better breed-specific formula will also aid in normal bowel function. A balanced protein, fat, and fiber combination suggested by veterinarians makes the food easier to digest and helps to ease digestive discomfort. Follow this article for a hand-selected list of dog foods to feed a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. Give your German Shepherd some plain pumpkin. The fiber-rich plain canned pumpkin soothes sore bellies and aids in the digestion of meals for your dog. Pumpkin puree in a can—not pumpkin pie filling—is a natural treatment to encourage the development of beneficial intestinal bacteria. The fiber in pumpkin puree can help thicken and firm sluggish stools. To promote beneficial stomach microbes and lessen stomach irritation, do this: Give your dog 1 to 4 teaspoons of pureed pumpkin each day. Adult German Shepherds should gradually be given up to 4 tablespoons per meal, while puppies should be given 2 tablespoons per meal. A sick German Shepherd might be persuaded to eat her food by using pumpkin puree as a savory addition mixed in with her regular meal. Stress or anxiety is another typical reason why German Shepherds get upset stomachs. You might not notice how your dog is adjusting to living with you and your family because of your busy schedule. Gastric issues might become more severe and frequent if your dog is stressed or anxious. Anxiety-related symptoms, particularly persistent stress, can cause diarrhea, runny stools, and vomiting. Make sure your German Shepherd has a peaceful space to unwind in so they can relax and heal. Close the curtains, dim the lights, and let your family know the dog needs some recovery time. Also, make sure they can easily access a fresh water bowl. Avoid doing anything energetic and active, such as running or fetch games, until she feels better. While your German Shepherd enjoys spending time with their family, when they are ill or have an upset stomach, rest and healing are some of the most recommended treatments. Your German Shepherd gets the tranquil environment they require to get well quickly. Plug in a natural stress-relieving diffuser for added comfort. During illness, use a plug-in relaxing diffuser that releases pheromones to calm and comfort your German Shepherd and keep your dog more relaxed. While research is still underway regarding the benefits of pheromone diffusers for German Shepherds, these diffusers have been shown to have many potential benefits for dogs in general. Some benefits you might notice when using a pheromone diffuser for your German Shepherd include: Reduce anxiety and stress: Pheromone diffusers can release calming scents that mimic the natural pheromones produced by dogs, which can aid in the reduction of anxiety and tension. For dogs that are prone to uneasiness, as well as those who are going through stressful events, this can be especially good for them. Promote relaxation: Pheromone diffusers may also promote relaxation in dogs, helping them to feel more calm and comfortable in their environment. This can be particularly beneficial for German Shepherds that are easily overwhelmed or nervous, or those that have trouble settling down. I placed one in my bedroom where she likes to sleep and the other in the living room near my couch where she rests during the day. Given her usual alertness, I noticed she barked less at noise outside and seemed to sleep deeper. The most typical signs of an upset stomach in German Shepherd puppies and adults are listed below. Vomiting The most evident sign of an upset stomach in German Shepherds is vomiting. Your dog might vomit occasionally or once. The acidity of the vomit can destroy tooth enamel and irritate the sensitive throat and mouth tissue. Even more serious? When your dog throws up, you need to take extra precautions and keep a tight eye on them. Diarrhea Because the stomach empties rapidly and there is little left in the stomach to absorb, diarrhea is a typical sign of an upset stomach in German Shepherds. Their bowels stop working normally as a result of the stress on their gut. Episodes of diarrhea and mushy stools are the result of this. Numerous conditions can cause abdominal pain, but often, an upset stomach will result in pain in the abdomen region. When their stomachs are pressed lightly, German Shepherds may yell or whine and lie on the ground in misery. Despite being a typically friendly dog who appreciates your contact, she may even snarl if you pet her stomach. You should take her stomach upset more seriously if she is experiencing abdominal pain, which may indicate a more serious issue, like a kidney infection, that requires medical attention. Never leave her alone if she is feeling uncomfortable or has abdominal pain; the issue can be more serious than you believe. They may act out more because they are more sensitive to certain environmental factors. For instance, some German Shepherds may behave normally for a moment and then become agitated, cranky, and unpleasant after consuming a particular food. This may be caused, in part, by experiencing nausea or abdominal pain. Try your best to identify the food that is making your dog so grumpy and remove it from her diet to prevent upset stomachs and irritability. Feeling Depressed Some German Shepherds with digestive issues seek out quiet areas to recuperate so they can stay away from people and avoid being touched. Other dogs might cower when you go to pet them—even though they generally enjoy being petted! These are symptoms of being ill, worn out, or even depressed. Your dog needs a quiet space to recover from her aches and pains. When your dog cowers or hides, which is not normal for them to do, you should keep an eye out for any additional symptoms of the disease. Allowing her to rest comfortably will help her recover. Your GSD could have less common symptoms that need your attention just the same. Other typical signs of an upset stomach in German Shepherds include: Constipation Eating less or refusing to eat at all Gas Gurgling noises from the stomach Bad breath that smells a bit acidic Sadly, many of these signs and symptoms could also indicate a more serious stomach issue in your German Shepherd. What foods can I give my German Shepherd for an upset stomach? Cooked oatmeal Unsweetened yogurt without any fruits or flavorings Low-fat, unflavored, unsweetened Greek yogurt Boiled, unseasoned mashed white potatoes Banana slices Sensitive dog food in small amounts When feeding your dog, be mindful of any food allergies they may have. Some foods, even easy-to-digest ones, might still make your dog ill source. Remember that: Consuming a variety of foods at once can make stomach problems worse, so pick just one to begin. If your dog has diarrhea episodes as a result of an upset stomach, she should also drink plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated. Can I give Pepto to my German Shepherd? Veterinarians advise against giving your GSD any over-the-counter antacids intended for human consumption to treat upset stomachs, especially Pepto Bismol. This is because many of these drugs interact in ways that can have negative side effects and exacerbate digestive problems. Pepto Bismol, for instance, contains salicylates, which some dogs are allergic to. What is the best probiotic for German Shepherds? I recommend this delicious duck-flavored probiotic for German Shepherds that have digestive issues. Because it comes in pre-measured soft chews, the multistrain beneficial bacteria solution is simple to administer to your German Shepherd. So giving your German Shepherd a daily serving of probiotics is now much easier. Do German Shepherds with upset stomachs need special food? Yes, a German Shepherd should eat a bland diet for a few days to ease their gut issues. Then, you can gradually switch your German Shepherd to a sensitive dog food designed especially for dogs with digestive problems. These delicate diets were developed for dogs who frequently struggle with stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. Small portions should be given to your German Shepherd at each meal to prevent overeating and subsequent stomach issues. When should a German Shepherd go to the vet for a stomach upset? While many German Shepherds experience a bout of stomach upset when it happens more than occasionally, you should discuss it with your veterinarian. You should seek emergency veterinary care right away if your GSD experiences sudden, acute discomfort or an enlarged stomach! However, if the underlying cause is a long-term problem, such as chronic stress, food sensitivity, or an undetected medical disease, stomach troubles may last for a longer period of time. There are many natural solutions that can help your German Shepherd feel better and get back to her normal self you can give your dog at home. Give them a stress-free environment and a comfortable bed to rest and recover. Offer a soothing supplement, such as a probiotic, for a balanced gut biome. Some underlying issues, such as a sensitive stomach in a German Shepherd , may require a different treatment plan. Always take your dog to the vet if they get worse or in doubt of their health. Easy peasy!

There are multiple possible combinations in the canine world. The coat color your pup ends up with depends on the mix of dominant and recessive genes that they receive from both parent dogs and how these genes interact. Golden Retriever Colors According to American Kennel Club standards, Golden Retrievers come in three distinct shades: dark golden, golden and light golden. Their coats are a single color all over with no apparent markings. Poodle Colors Poodles , on the other hand, can come in ten different solid colors: apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver beige, and white. Poodles also bring patterns into the mix. See Also: Click the image The Science Bit Without going into too much detail, the coat color of every single dog on the planet is a product of two main pigments: eumelanin responsible for shades of black and pheomelanin which covers shades of red and yellow. The genes that a dog gets determines how much of each of these are produced, as well as how they might be diluted or mixed with white the complete absence of pigment. For more details on how this all plays out, check out this handy description by VCA Hospitals. Each puppy inherits one set of color genes known as alleles from their mother dog and one set from their father dog — so they end up with two in total. This all depends on whether the alleles are dominant or recessive, and some are more or less dominant than others. Predicting Goldendoodle Colors So, to get back to Goldendoodles…. The Poodle colors are more likely to come through. To be golden, the puppy would need to inherit two recessive golden alleles — one from each parent. The puppy will most likely be a similar color to their Poodle parent. Yet this obviously only applies to first-generation Goldendoodles. With later-generation dogs, things get even more complicated as there are more Poodle genes to contend with. For instance, you may feel confident that with two black dogs you will get black puppies, right? After all, black is dominant. Well, as covered above, dogs inherit two alleles, and even though the dominant one is expressed, a recessive one could be passed along to their offspring. If both parents have recessive golden color alleles and both pass these along, then you could very well end up with a golden puppy from two black parents! What we can do is take an educated guess based on what we know and what we have observed about how the genes that determine coat color interact. Breeders may also opt to have their dogs tested to see which alleles they carry. This can make any coat-color guestimations that much more accurate. All in all, with those crazy, varied Poodle genes, Goldendoodles can come in pretty much every color that a Poodle comes in — and weirdly more besides. Unlike with Poodles, pedigree standards do not govern the breeding of Doodles. So, we are starting to see an array of mixes and patterns, many of which we have detailed below. Their coloring is typically the result of a mutation in the gene that would otherwise produce a black coat. These mutated genes are recessive, so the puppy would need to inherit one from each parent to end up this color. While chocolate Goldendoodles are often born quite dark — sometimes even black, they tend to fade a fair bit as they age. This process can begin as early as six weeks and will be most noticeable at this time on their muzzle and between their paw pads. Apricot Goldendoodles A variation on red, an apricot coat is one of the most sought-after for a Goldendoodle. It gives pups the appearance of a cute teddy bear even more so than their hair and adorable features already do. However, as this color is created by a recessive gene, the puppy must inherit it from both parents. Photo used with permission. Credit: Taurean DuHart Photo used with permission. Credit: doodlikekylo This coat color typically starts off a little darker and lightens over time. Depending on the interplay of genes, it can lighten quite considerably. For this reason, apricot Goldies may sometimes be confused with cream or tan ones. They will almost always have black eyes, eye rims, noses, and toenails, all inherited from the Poodle. Cream Goldendoodles Again, from the red line, cream Goldendoodles are frequently confused with white ones because of how light their coat can get — but they are very definitely not the same. These dogs are often used for breeding dogs with multi-colored coats, such as merle or parti Goldendoodles covered later. Credit: Murphywestslopedoodle Cream Goldies inherit their colors from both parents — a touch of gold to a little white. This is one of the reasons that they have the most extensive variation of coat tones and points with either dark or pinkish noses and paw pads, and light or dark eyes. Champagne Goldendoodles are so named for the yellowish tinge to their light, beautiful coats. These dogs have a recessive red gene that is diluted into this stunning pale yellow tone. Credit: Pattie Martin In some cases, it might be a little tricky to tell the difference between a cream Goldie and a champagne one. Champagnes tend to have a touch more color. Puppies may be born with a darker golden coat which lightens as they age. Secondly, the gene that creates a black coat is recessive, meaning that black coats are only likely in second and third-generation dogs. Finally, the Poodle fading gene can be quite active in these pups, silvering them down to grey, blue, or, naturally, silver once they are past their puppy years. Credit: sweetpupneo Black and White Goldendoodles While most black Goldendoodles are a single color, occasionally, you will also come across ones with white markings. In some cases, white may even be the more dominant color with just a touch of black. As with other parti and patterned coats, black and white Goldies are most often found in later generations. Black and white Doodles may also be referred to as tuxedo, parti, merle, phantom, and brindle. Gray Goldendoodles Not surprisingly, Gray is derived from the black line and inherited from the Poodle side of the Golden Retriever-Poodle combination. This is another rare shade in these types of dogs and only really occurs with multigenerational breeding. These Goldies are usually born very dark in color and start to show as gray after around six weeks. By the time these dogs hit two years of age, they will have faded into their adult hue. However, color holding can occur around the face and ears giving a cute two-tone effect. Blue Goldendoodles At first glance, blue Goldendoodles can look very similar to gray ones. However, they are generally a darker, more steely shade, and their coat can have both darker and lighter patches. This color is super rare, being recessive. It takes multiple generations of Goldendoodle breeding to achieve. Like gray Doods, blues are born dark and fade out across the first two years of their lives. Their coats may even continue to clear as they age, but a select few will remain truly blue. Again this color is tricky to predict. You never really know what you are going to get when you adopt a black Goldie. Silver Goldendoodles A lighter version of blue or gray Goldies, silvers are also born a much darker color and just keep on fading. You might see signs that a pup will be silver from somewhere around six to ten weeks, where you can start to spot lighter roots. You will likely also find white or silver hairs between their toes. The shift from black to silver is probably the most dramatic of any of the Doodle coat changes. Your pup will look like an entirely different dog when it is done. For this reason silvers are often mistaken for grays early on in life. Silver Beige Goldendoodles Unlike regular silvers, silver beige Goldendoodles are born dark brown. However, just like regular silvers, they lighten as they age. The lighter the final color, the earlier the puppy will start clearing — anywhere between six to twelve weeks. Silver beiges can sometimes be mistaken for sables as they start to fade. The combination of colors in their coat gives this effect. Tan Goldendoodles Tan Goldies get their coloring from their Retriever parent. Just as with apricot and cream dogs, tan occurs because of a dilution in the red pigment pheomelanin. This color sits somewhere between these other two more popular and more common ones. Often these dogs have shades of light apricot, cream, and white mixed in with their coat. Although from a distance, they do appear a single uniform shade. White Goldendoodles Although they look distinctly white from a distance compared with their warmer-toned cream counterparts , white Doods are often not white all over. They have various shades of cream mixed in throughout their coat. Unlike cream, white is not the result of fading, so white puppies will actually be born white and retain this color all through their lives. While these dogs look either brown or black at birth, even at this early time, the root of the hair is much lighter than the tip. Sable Goldendoodles tend to hold onto their dark color around the face and ears. The rest of their coat settles into more of a cream or tan shade, although always with darker tips and lighter roots. This makes for a really unique-looking dog! Abstract Goldendoodles Dogs with abstract coats are mostly one single color be it any of the ones outlined above with touches of another color. These are usually found on their face and around their chest and paws. Such dogs are also referred to as mismarked or chrome. Phantom Goldendoodles Super hard-to-find phantom Goldendoodles comprise two colors — a base shade solid chocolate or solid black and a lighter one. The lighter points are usually to be found around the eyes, muzzle, and legs. Most Phantom Goldendoodles are commonly black and tan, but this can vary, e. Parti Goldendoodles Dogs with parti coats are two distinct colors, with the second one usually being white. To be considered a parti rather than an abstract Doodle, the pup needs to have a color breakdown rather than simply a few highlights. You can find parti hounds in every color covered above, but no two look the same. As mentioned above, the parti gene is a recessive one, and so the Goldie would need two for them to be expressed. However, there are plenty of parti Poodles about. Tuxedo Goldendoodles Tuxedo Goldendoodles are another two-color mix. Any of the above colors are combined with white. However, the white is concentrated around the chest and front legs. This gives the pup the appearance of wearing a tuxedo hence the name. As you can imagine, these pooches are pretty popular because of their distinctive appearance — especially when in black and white. Their markings are apparent from birth. Although, naturally, the white splotches often begin small and get more prominent as the dog matures. Merle Goldendoodles Merle Goldendoodles are another extremely uncommon type. Watercolor merles, which are harder to find, also have tickings, but their coat lightens with age. Merle coats are tricky for breeders to work with as the gene that causes this pattern is also linked to health issues such as deafness and blindness. So careful breeding by someone very knowledgeable about canine genetics is needed. This unique pattern of dark and light coat is arranged in such a way as to make the dog look like it has tiger stripes. While the width and color of these stripes vary from dog to dog, in Goldendoodles, it usually takes the form of a black or brown base coat with lighter colored stripes. Tri-Colored Goldendoodles With the increasing amount of multigenerational Goldies, color options are becoming ever more varied. However, it is very usual in other types like Bernedoodles from the Bernese Mountain Dog. They usually have a little of another breed in them — one that does carry the tri-color gene. To date, no research has demonstrated a link between color and behavior. Rumors that say differently can actually be quite harmful. For instance, some people equate black dogs with higher aggression levels. This is simply not true. On the other hand, there are a few studies that link specific colors with certain health conditions. For instance, the merle gene as outlined above can lead to certain conditions such as deafness and blindness. These days, most breeders focus on breeding extremely healthy puppies over ones of a particular color or pattern type. The parent dogs are thoroughly tested for genetic conditions that they otherwise might pass down to their puppies. In all honesty, with no coat color being better than any other in terms of health and behavior, your choice of Goldendoodle should be based on health and temperament over looks. However, naturally, people have different preferences about these things. So, once you have ascertained that the puppies you are checking out are all good, you can choose the one that looks best to you. Usually, the intensity is reduced, and black dogs switch to gray or silver while red ones dull down to apricot or cream. The apricot Goldendoodle is the most popular color choice, with cream being second and red in third place. More popular colors usually translate into more expensive. Will my Goldendoodle change color? Most Goldendoodles are born with dark coat colors that change, fade, or silver to a lighter color with age, depending on their inherited genes. This is known as clearing and generally occurs within the first two years. The muzzles and ears of a Goldendoodle tend to hold more of the original colors as other parts change. What color Goldendoodle is best? There is no specific color of Goldendoodle that is best. The one that you opt for will be based on what you like. While red tones are pretty popular among the Doodle-fan crowd, some opt for dogs with rarer colors like black, blue, and silver. Others want different and distinct patterns that only come with multigenerational breeding. While color is one of the first things people notice about puppies, it should be one of the least important factors to base an adoption decision on. When purchasing a puppy, you want to ensure that they are healthy and have the right temperament — family-friendly, active, playful, etc. Only then should you start to consider color. No matter which Goldendoodle you decide is right for you, it will no doubt be love at first sight. Not just because of their adorable appearance, but because they make excellent, loving companions. You will never regret your choice to adopt one. What color of Goldendoodle is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! Goldendoodle coloring pages provide the perfect canvas for you to unleash your creativity. These charming canines, born from the crossbreeding of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, offer a unique blend of characteristics. From their friendly disposition to their wavy, allergy-friendly coats, Goldendoodles are truly one-of-a-kind. Just like you and me, they crave love, companionship, and affection. Poodle Intelligence and Allergy-Friendly Coats On the other side of the genetic spectrum, Poodles bring intelligence and unique coats to the mix. Their high intelligence makes Goldendoodles quick learners and adaptable companions. Plus, the hypoallergenic quality of their coats means less sneezing and more cuddling for us dog lovers. Conclusion In closing, Goldendoodle coloring pages are not just sheets of paper; they are gateways to a world of creativity, relaxation, and a deeper connection with these charming hybrid dogs. As someone who knows the joy of coloring and appreciates the unique qualities of Goldendoodles, I encourage you to grab your coloring tools and embark on this colorful journey with me. Through these coloring pages, we can express our love for these delightful dogs and celebrate their wonderful blend of affection, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coats. Happy coloring, my fellow art enthusiasts and dog lovers! Please rate 5 hearts to help the author of GBcoloring Submit Rating.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. 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. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Well, you get the German Shepherd Lab mix, a lovable crossbreed with all the great personality traits you could ever want in a family dog. Also known as Lab Shepherd mixes or Shepradors, these mixed breed canines are highly sought after. The parent breeds are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Like all crossbreeds, Shepradors combine the physical and personality traits of their parents, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion. Because they are a designer dog , there are no established breeding guidelines or standards. Oftentimes, pedigree information is scarce as well, creating a lot of unknowns. Canines are fully capable of crossbreeding on their own. In fact, many of the purebred dogs we know today are a result of centuries of careful breeding. As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed is a direct result of breeding purebred German Shepherds with Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers have a very long history that dates back all the way to the s. Back then, they were working dogs that often helped out fishermen. Eventually, these dogs made their way to England where they became companions for European royalty. German Shepherds were working dogs, too. However, their main job was to herd sheep and other livestock for farmers. Today, Labradors and German Shepherds are very popular the world over. .Though, they are popular for very different reasons. Typically, Labs are known for their companionship. They make great family pets and are often used as guide dogs for those with disabilities. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are revered for their athleticism and intelligence. German Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament The beauty of mixed breed dogs is that they take on traits from both of their parents. German Shepradors are a perfect example of this. These dogs are a joy to be around. Whether that required physical work or simply good behavior, these pups are up for the task! Like all dogs, German Shepherds and their subsequent crossbreed are products of their environment. Shepradors make great family dogs. The combination of intelligent thinking and loyalty can prove to be useful in a home setting. Your watchdog will do all they can to protect your home while still being down for cuddles. However, helping your pup grow up to be obedient and well-behaved is manageable. You see, these dogs are very intelligent. In fact, some might say that they are too intelligent for their own good. This mainly comes from the German Shepherd side of the dog. German Shepherds are notorious for being stubborn. Shepradors can take on that personality trait, making the training process a bit more challenging. They may require more time and patience to truly understand things. Another issue you might encounter with German Shepherd mixes is the need for regular mental stimulation. Because they are so intelligent, you must constantly challenge their minds to keep them happy. Like all dogs, Shepradors do best when positive reinforcement is the training method of choice. While dominance-based training used to be the go-to, several studies have shown that punishments do more harm than good. German Shepherd mixes thrive when you use a reward system. Showering your dog with praise and providing plenty of treats is the best way to instill the training techniques. Despite all of this, you may see pups with vastly different characteristics. Genetics is not an exact science. Dominant genes from one parent dog may take over, causing the puppy to look more like one breed than the other. As a result, the crossbreed is going to fall into that same category. You can use information about their parents for reference, but several factors will contribute to their true adult size. Generally, males can weigh upwards of 88 pounds when fully grown. They will stand between 22 and 26 inches at the withers. This is the point between the shoulder blades of the dog. Females are typically smaller than males. You may come across females as small as 35 pounds. Though, most will be around 70 to 80 pounds. As for height, females tend to be between 20 and 24 inches at the withers. Both of the parent breeds are pretty athletic, so most mixed pups will be as well. They fall somewhere in the middle. Depending on their activity levels, you might notice strong muscle development on their hind legs. These dogs usually have wide snouts and dark noses. Their eyes are large and brown. Some pups may have light eyes, but this is quite rare. Genetic variations in the parent breeds can lead to lighter eyes, but a vast majority are going to have big brown eyes. One characteristic where you will see a lot of variation among these dogs is the ears. Most Labs have large ears that flop down over the sides of the head Meanwhile, perky triangular ears are one of the most defining traits of the German Shepherds. The interesting thing about the ears is that you will have to wait and see whether they stand tall or flop down. Puppies are born with soft and fluffy ears. As they grow older, the cartilage in their ears may or may not strengthen to help them stand up. Some pups even have a combination of the two ear styles! Colors Coat colors can vary across the board with these pups. German Shepherds have an iconic tri-color coat. Distinct patterns of gold, black, and white cover the body. The most common is gold. However, black and pure-white Labs exist as well. They may have multi-colored coats or solid ones. Lifespan The average lifespan for a German Shepherd Lab mix is between 10 and 12 years. This falls in line with the life expectancy of the parent breeds. Generally, larger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. Many factors will affect how much time these dogs have. Health issues and a poor lifestyle can cut that lifespan short. On the same token, extremely healthy pups are fully capable of living past 12 years of age. Possible Health Issues Like all dogs, Shepradors are not immune to disease and health problems. In fact, they may be susceptible to more issues. The problem with mixing breeds is that it opens up the possibilities of health complications in the future. Hereditary problems from both parents can be passed to the puppy. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are known to suffer from a few different ailments. Here are the most common health concerns to be wary of. Dysplasia is a musculoskeletal condition that often affects dogs later in life. However, it takes years to develop and can be triggered by issues as a young pup. Take hip dysplasia for example. Hip dysplasia can cause debilitating pain. Many dogs who suffer from it have a hard time standing up. They may exhibit signs of extreme weakness in the hind legs, resulting in a noticeably different posture. The hip sockets become malformed, causing mobility issues with the hip joint. While some dogs are born with it, poor development as a puppy can exacerbate the problem. There are treatment options for hip and elbow dysplasia. Veterinarians can perform surgery early on to correct the problem and provide relief. If your dog is already suffering from it, physical therapy and joint supplements can provide relief from pain. Bloat Contrary to popular belief, bloat is not an innocent gas problem with dogs. It occurs when dogs eat too fast or exert physical exercise too soon after eating. Excess air is swallowed, filling the stomach. Eventually, the stomach can twist on itself. This restricts blood flow throughout the body. Provide small meals and prevent your dog from playing for at least 30 minutes. To control fast eating, you can utilize slow-feeding bowls or puzzle toys. They create an obstacle that forces the dog to eat slower than normal, which can do a lot to prevent GDV. Ocular Issues Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are pretty common with both parent breeds. The tissue within the eye can degenerate over time. This causes vision loss. From there, you can provide supplements or foods rich in beta carotene to slow its progression. Diet and Exercise Requirements Shepherd Labrador mixes are incredibly active dogs. They love nothing more than playing and getting tons of exercise. To make matters worse, a lack of exercise can turn into a lasting problem. You need to start your pup on the right foot and establish a healthy lifestyle right off the bat. Go for runs and toss chew toys around the yard. You can break up exercise time in manageable chunks throughout the day to make things easier. As long as you get those 90 minutes in, your dog should have no problem staying healthy. When it comes to diet, you must be just as vigilant! These dogs have insatiable appetites. However, you need to ensure that their food is meeting all of their nutritional needs. It should use wholesome proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. The dog food should also have complex carbs and healthy fats like fish oil. Steer clear of anything that has artificial ingredients or unnecessary fillers. Those foods will do more harm than good. The goal is to provide your dog with muscle-building protein that will keep their body in good shape. As a good rule of thumb, dogs will need about 30 calories of food for each pound of body weight. This usually amounts to about 4 cups of dry kibble a day. That said, foods can vary dramatically when it comes to nutritional density. We recommend splitting their caloric requirements into two small meals a day. One meal in the morning and one in the evening will keep their energy levels stable as they go about their active lifestyles. Plus, splitting the meals will help to avoid issues like bloat. However, thick coats need a bit of extra work. GSDs have double costs. The outer layer of hair is thinner and easier to manage. Meanwhile, the inner coat is thick and dense. It provides insulation in those cold winter months. German Shepherd Lab mixes can inherit that thick coat. They will go through shedding cycles a couple of times a year, resulting in a mess of fur throughout your home! With regular brushings, you can keep the fallout to manageable levels while keeping your pup clean. These pups make great family dogs. They get along just fine with kids as long as you socialize them early on. As always, you should never leave your dog alone with young kids. These crossbred dogs are fully capable of attacking people, so you should exercise caution and always keep a watchful eye. They should know not to pull their tail or agitate the dog in any way. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes good guard dogs? Shepradors make great guard dogs. Plus, they tend to be a bit suspicious of strangers. Are these dogs aggressive? This all depends on their upbringing. If you take the time to properly train and socialize these dogs, they will be gentle and loving. However, if the dogs are abused or trained with punishment, they could exhibit aggressive behavior. How big to German Shepherd Lab mixes get? Males can weigh as much as 88 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall at the withers. Do Shepradors get along with other dogs? German Shepherd Labrador mixes do just fine with other dogs. However, they must be properly socialized first. Exposure to other animals is key during their development. They should be introduced to new family dogs slowly to prevent any aggressive behavior. Do Shepradors make good working dogs? Thanks to their intelligence and high trainability, Labrashepherds make fine working dogs. They do particularly well herding livestock. Conclusion German Shepherd Lab mixes are a joy to raise. If you have an active lifestyle to keep them fit, they will be a great addition to your family. Treat them well and these pups will spend their lives being a loving canine companion. Search Dog Breeds. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.

They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article. Thank you so much for my lovely toy poodle puppy. She's so fluffy, energetic and so much beautiful! We call her Annie. She is only the second day with us and already became a family honey! She loves running in the garden with our second dog Jerry. Jerry is quite jealous of her, but I think they will become best of friends in a few days I will send you more photos and videos in the evening With love. I just wanted you to know that they have become an important part of our family. They are very energetic and full of life we just love our new puppies. They are growing in to their dog body. I have included a picture of them. I will send you updates regularly. Take care! She got to hang out with me and my wife for about an hour before bedtime, and then she went to sleep in her new crate with no problems. Not a single peep out of her all night. She was then greeted by the boys at a. This morning, and loved them instantly! They have been talking, petting, and playing toys with her all day. Thanks so much for the wonderful pup, we just adore her. I have enclosed a couple of pics for you, and will send some more again soon. Our puppies are trained within home environment and as a result, all our dogs consistently demonstrate a delightful, intelligent and happy disposition. Money Back Guarantee.

Controls Population Experts believe that a Labrador should be spayed between the age of 9 and 15 months. You should never rush the process and spay your pooch too early because it can lead to many health problems. Similarly, leaving your dog intact for too long can give way to several complications. Once a female Lab has gone through her first heat, she becomes highly vulnerable to these tumors. Spaying your Labrador puppy is a major surgery and will require substantial aftercare. The vet will give you detailed instructions, and you must follow them strictly to ensure a smooth recovery. A Labrador puppy that has undergone spaying might be completely inactive for the first days. After that, they might start to move around but the wound will need a rest of several weeks to heal completely. During this period, the owners should be extremely vigilant and make sure that their pooch stays safe. Labs are known for being curious and can get themselves into trouble if you are not super alert. Different breeds require different amounts of sleep, but how much sleep do Labradors need? Click here to learn more. Yes, it does. The behavioral issues of the dog are one of the primary reasons why owners decide to spay their Labradors. If your pup is showing aggression and indulging in inappropriate urination, spaying can be quite helpful in solving the problem. Although male Labs are more likely to exhibit this behavior, some female Labs can also create these issues. Other Benefits of Spaying Labradors Managing behavioral issues is not the only objective of spaying Labradors. It can also solve some other issues that can be quite troublesome for the dog and owner. The following are a couple of other reasons that can urge you to spay your Labrador. Reduces Health Risks Many experts regard spaying as an effective remedy to maintain the good health of your pup. Not only will it keep your dog healthy, but it can also increase the lifespan of your Labrador. According to an estimate , spaying can increase the lifespan of male Labs by .Spaying reduces the risk of several types of cancers, like testicular, mammary, and uterine cancers. Similarly, it reduces the probability of many dangerous medical conditions, like Pyometra. This life-threatening uterine infection is specific to Labs and can be quite uncomfortable for your canine friend. A female Labrador can have up to 70 puppies during their lifetime. A female Lab can have up to 12 pups in a litter. This means that taking care of newborn puppies and their mother can be an extremely challenging task. Even if you are planning to have some puppies, you should make a proper plan with your vet and stick to it. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. I have a 4. My veterinarian is pressing me to spay the dog. I am going to spay her, but I've read conflicting things about age. Some say to let the dog go thru the first heat, vet says going thru heat ups her chance of mammary cancer. Vet is saying to do the spaying at 6 months old. The dog's breeder says that is much too young I am inclined to listen to her. She said her dogs dont go thru heat until months. So should I wait and do it around 11 months so that she doesnt go thru heat, but that its much later not at 6 months! Or are most people just letting the dog go thru a heat first? Here's my problem. My husband didnt really want the dog. He's head over heels for her now, of course. I've never had a female dog before. He has had a few as a child and he had a female dog when we first met and she died a few years ago. So he considers himself an "expert" in the area of girl dogs and reminds me of that constantly. If the mess from going thru heat is awful I will have to listen to him talk about how he was right and I was wrong for a month. Of course I want to do whats best for my dog too. I HAVE to get the dog spayed. I dont have a fenced in yard. I've never taken care of a dog in heat before. My last lab was a male and I had him neutered at 6 months old. That was back in .I know that advice has changed since then and now I am reading that spaying too early can lead to joint problems and all that bad stuff. Is it pretty true that you can look at your dogs lineage and take the ages of first heat off her relatives and come up with a timeframe for your dog? If all this breeders dogs didnt go into heat until 12 months, what are the chances that mine will go thru heat at 6 months? I obviously have time to think about this. I am going to cancel the appointment I made to have it done at 6 months and wait longer, I'm just not sure how much longer to wait. By Tom Massey Dec 09, When you become the owner of a puppy, there are several things you should do to encourage its overall wellness, like making sure it gets plenty of exercise, feeding it high-quality food, attending frequent vet checkups, and scheduling a spay or neuter appointment at the appropriate age. Spaying or neutering your lab—or having a gonadectomy performed—is one of the best ways that you can ensure a happy and healthy life with your puppy. This procedure has proven to help reduce major health risks like cancer, eliminate unwanted pregnancy, and even assist with undesired behaviors in males. Spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is a procedure specific to females that refers to removing her reproductive organs, including her ovaries and uterus. Neutering, or orchiectomy, is the procedure specific to males that refers to removing both testicles so that he is unable to reproduce anymore. Neutering helps control reproductive urges and suppress unwanted behaviors like aggression. Some veterinarians believe that six months old is a good time to spay or neuter, but one study found that doing so this early could increase the likeliness of joint disorders and certain cancers in adulthood. This is typically when he or she is more than 45 pounds and between 9 to 15 months old. Before you set the appointment, be sure to speak with your vet about the right time for your puppy based on its health, gender, and size. Benefits to Spaying or Neutering There are several health benefits to spaying or neutering your Labrador puppy. But even if you plan on keeping a litter or two, females can have up to 12 puppies per litter—so it can get hectic and expensive keeping up with all of their behaviors, attention needs, and health requirements. This is to help prevent overpopulation, unsafe breeding practices, and unwanted puppies in the future. Benefit 2: Reduces Health Risks Did you know that getting your Labrador spayed or neutered increases its longevity? Pyometra is one of the most prevalent, potentially life-threatening uterine infections that are specific to labs. The good news is that spaying or neutering ultimately reduces the risk of contracting this infection! Males will also have a decreased risk for testicular cancer, and females are less likely to get mammary, uterine, ovarian, or cervical tumors. Benefit 3: Assists with Behavior Issues When a male lab enters adulthood, he might begin exhibiting some unwanted behaviors that come with puberty, such as: Mounting Urine marking Aggression towards other dogs and human family members Neutering is the most effective way to reduce these habits. Additionally, females will stop going into heat throughout the year, which will eliminate howling and bleeding during her reproductive seasons. Conclusion Spaying or neutering is one of the most common pet surgeries in the world. Not only does it help reduce unwanted pregnancies, but it also has been proven to aid with behavioral issues and lesson significant health risks well into adulthood. The best time to spay or neuter your lab would be once it hits puberty, which is usually between 9 and 15 months old. At Snowy Pines, all puppies are treated like family—so that they are ready to join yours the day you take them home. Contact Snowy Pines today! Share on. When should I neuter my dog? This traditionally involved an operation to remove the testicles in a male dog or the uterus and ovaries in a female dog. Spaying in the traditional manner is a major surgical procedure. Nowadays there are more options available to us than in years gone by. Female dogs can be spayed using a laproscopic procedure which enables the uterus to be left intact and which is a less invasive method than the traditional. Attitudes towards neutering are changing in the light of recent research and opinions vary widely from one country to another. Neutering in different countries In some countries most dogs are neutered at a very early age and you are considered totally irresponsible if you fail to neuter your dog. Neutering is routinely practised in some parts of the world, Australia for example, and the USA where a widespread spay and neuter campaign has been in operation for some decades In some regions, neutering your pets is obligatory. In Los Angeles County for example, most dogs and cats are required to be sterilised before they are four months old! At the other end of the scale in some countries, neutering is considered offensive. In Norway for example, it is considered unacceptable to neuter a dog without valid medical reasons, and birth control is not one of them. Over in the UK neutering is not universally practised. And though many Labradors are neutered, many are also left entire. In our modern digital world where it is easy to talk to people from all over the world, these differences can cause confusion and even argument. Neutering vs leaving entire There are now groups on Facebook set up to oppose the routine neutering of dogs, and strong feelings about neutering from both sides of the argument. In fact there is no need for argument. This should really be a fact based issue. And facts are what you will find on this page and in the resources I link to. Why Neuter Your Dog? There are lots of reasons why people neuter their dogs, and those reasons are based on beliefs that people hold about the outcome of neutering and how it will affect their dog. In general, apart from birth control, people tend to neuter male dogs for behavioral reasons, and to neuter female dogs for reasons of convenience Birth control Some people think that it is their duty to neuter their dog in order to prevent more puppies being brought into the world. In practical terms, there are other simple ways to ensure that dogs do not reproduce during their lifetimes for those that choose not to neuter. But there is no doubt that neutering is a complete and permanent way to avoid your dog producing any offspring. Does Neutering Change Behavior? Many people for example think that neutering will calm their male Labrador down. Some think it will stop him humping things. This is not necessarily the case. Others think that male dogs will become aggressive if not neutered. Many top pet websites still promote this idea. But along with some other assumptions about neutering, it is now known to be incorrect. In fact recent studies found more behavioral problems in neutered dogs than in entire ones. The truth is, that behavioural effects vary and are not what we once believed. But in short, the evidence now point to behavioral problems being more common in neutered dogs, not the other way around. For these reasons, many people will choose to neuter a female dog so that she never comes into season again Neutering for health Neutering female dogs confers a couple of important health benefits. Including protection from mammary cancer if carried out early, and protection from pyometra. Unfortunately, we now know that neutering also comes packaged with some serious health risks. In male dogs, these health risks to neutering almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. In females, balancing these up is not easy. Getting at the facts — an objective view The truth is, that there are both benefits and disadvantages to neutering, and we look at each of these in more detail in our articles on male and female dogs. Recent research has highlighted some serious long term health risks to neutering including increased risks of cancer, dementia, and some common joint problems. And you need to know about these. Some of the reasons people neuter their dogs, are based on beliefs that are not supported by evidence. And some of the reasons that people neuter their dogs, could be better achieved by other means. Most information about neutering seems to be presented from one angle or the other. What we have tried to do here, is to present the information about neutering in a factual and objective way, so that you can decide for yourself what is best for your family and your dog. Different methods of neutering In the past, neutering was always a surgical procedure. Nowadays there are a few more options available to us than there used to be Castrating male dogs Traditionally, male dogs were neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed through a small incision in the scrotum. This is still a common procedure. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Apart from infertility, the effects of surgical castration can be variable depending on the dog, that too is covered in the link above Chemical castration Chemical castration is an option now available to pet owners in some regions. Chemical castration does not have exactly the same effects as surgical castration, there is some testosterone remaining for example, but it gives you some idea of how permanent castration might affect your dog. Some people might find it helpful to have a trial run of castrating their dog using the chemical option before going for a permanent solution Like surgical castration the affects can be variable. There are also some possible side effects to chemical castration which you will need to discuss with your vet. These may vary from dog to dog and are most likely to occur during the first few days after the injection. Spaying a female dog Traditional methods of spaying female dogs involve major abdominal surgery. Recovery time is at least two week. There is however, now an alternative Laparoscopic spay With a laparoscopic spay, two tiny incisions are made and only the ovaries are removed. The laparoscopic spay is a much simpler procedure. The effects of neutering in dogs Apart from rendering your dog infertile, neutering or de-sexing, has other effects. Differences in physical appearance between neutered and un-neutered dogs will depend on the age at which the dog was neutered Neutered dogs look different A neutered male will have no testicles, which can be very apparent in shortcoated dogs. These are known as neuticles! A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine than an entire adult dog. Dogs of both sexes will usually grow a little taller than they would have done if they had not been neutered. And female dogs neutered later in life may develop a rather coarse, scruffy coat. However, most of the changes that result from neutering are less obvious. They involve the behavior and long term health of your dog. Behavioral changes after neutering Changes in behavior after neutering are not always predictable. What people think will happen to their dog, is not always what happens at all. Especially where dogs are neutered later in life. The behavioral changes of neutering neutering a male dog are limited. Although roaming behavior can be. The Risks Some people are surprised to discover that there are risks to neutering a dog. Risks that go beyond the basic risk of surgery and anesthesia. In several breeds of dog these risks have been shown to include an increased rate of certain cancers. And an increased susceptibility to some serious joint problems. Life is more complicated than that. This leaves owners in something of a dilemma. Especially if their veterinary professional is not up to date with the latest research or has formed different conclusions as to its implications. Therefore you will need to weigh up the pros and cons carefully and consider the evidence available. Deciding whether or not to neuter your dog For many people, there is no doubt that a neutered pet is simply more convenient. If you need to go out to work and your dog needs a place in doggy day care, he may need to be neutered. Many day care centres simply will not accept an entire dog. Caring for some females in season can be a somewhat messy business. And not being able to take your dog out for several weeks can be annoying. And these exist for both male and female dogs. There are also some health benefits to neutering a female dog. These are clearly explained in the articles linked to in this article. The important thing is to make an active choice based on information. My personal view is that neutering a dog for convenience is the right decision for some families. But I do think it is important that you are aware that this is what you are doing. I increasingly meet dog owners that have had their pets neutered purely for health reasons. Or to prevent their male dog becoming aggressive. Only to find out that this was not only unnecessary, but may actually have disadvantaged their dog. This is very upsetting to discover after irreversible surgery has taken place When to Neuter a Labrador If you decide to have your pet neutered, you will also need to decide what is the right age to have the procedure carried out. In the USA there is a tendency to carry out pediatric neutering neutering before sexual maturity. In the UK, vets normally recommend that female dogs are allowed to have one season before being spayed to allow her to mature physically. The advantages of pediatric neutering are from a birth control standpoint. There are no advantages to the individual dog to be neutered at less than six months old. And there is some evidence that the health risks of neutering will be exacerbated by neutering your Labrador at a very early age. Remember, unless you are required by law to neuter your pet by the time he is a few months old, it is your decision to make. If you decide to delay neutering, or even put it off altogether, you will need to take responsibility. Ensuring that no unwanted puppies are brought into the world. Do talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you may have. A good vet will not simply state that all dogs should be neutered but should be aware of the latest research. They will also prepared to discuss this with you and help you come to best decision for your family. Just drop your address into the box below. The risks of spaying your dog. How common is mammary cancer in dogs On the face of it, the incidence of mammary tumors in unspayed female dogs appears to be worryingly high. And about half of these tumors will be malignant. What does spaying achieve? In other words, if you wait until after the second season, it is too late to reduce the risk of mammary tumors. These two sets of figures have been widely quoted for several years When looking at statistics they are of course often not as straightforward as they seem. A review was published in looked thirteen separate reports on the association between neutering and mammary tumors. Nine of these reports were considered to have a high risk of bias. The remaining four studies had a moderate risk of bias. One of the studies found an association between neutering and reduced risk of tumors. Two of the studies found no association. A further study presented no numbers. Due to the high risk of bias and the weak evidence, the systematic review concluded that the evidence for the efficacy of spaying as a protection against mammary tumors is weak. What does this mean? It is probably fair to say however, that most vets still support neutering and see it as a helpful way to reduce the risk of mammary tumors. Other factors involved in mammary tumors Differences in susceptibility to cancer may vary from breed to breed, between large dogs and small, between purebred and crossbred dogs and depending on environmental influences. One study showed that unspayed female dogs who were thin as puppies had half the risk of developing mammary tumors as those that were not thin as puppies. Some studies are carried out on a very small number of subjects, and some come to different conclusions than others. Just as in humans, there appears to be a genetic element in the risk factors for canine mammary tumors. If siblings of your dog or her mother, have developed mammary tumors, then your female dog is at greater risk. This genetic component is presumably why pedigree dogs are also at increased risk. Spaying Your Dog vs Pyometra Pyometra is a very nasty infection of the uterus or womb. It tends to occur in older female dogs a few weeks after the end of their season. When a female dog contracts pyometra, pus builds up inside the uterus which is stretchy, and becomes more and more swollen. The female dog may even start to look pregnant. If the cervix, or entrance to the uterus, remains closed, the disease may go undetected until the infection is so advanced that the dog cannot be saved. If you are lucky, your dog will have a discharge and the infection will be detected before it kills her. Pyometra is undoubtedly painful, but dogs, like many other animals, tend to hide pain a survival mechanism until it becomes unbearable. It is a fact that Pyometra kills dogs. Pyometra is an often silent and deadly killer, but most importantly its prevalence is widely understated. People worry a great deal about mammary cancer, but unless she is a cancer prone breed, your female dog is probably far more at risk from pyometra. With every season she goes through and for every year that goes by, the risk to your female dog increases. The standard treatment for pyometra is an emergency spay. This is a far more risky, and much more expensive, operation than a standard routine spay for your dog The Benefits of Spaying your Dog? The evidence to suggest that spaying your female dog early in life before her second season will protect her from mammary tumors is weak. More research is needed to confirm this. Spaying later in life may be less likely to confer protection, than spaying at a very early age. Spaying at any age offers your dog almost complete protection against pyometra afterwards. Detecting this horrid disease is often very difficult and the evidence suggests that as your female dog becomes elderly she is more likely to get it than not. But what is clear from recent studies, is that there are risks as well as benefits, to spaying your female dog. The Disadvantages of Spaying your Dog? Before you whisk your female dog down to the vet, we need to look now at the other side of the coin. Some research has shown that spaying may in some respects, be disadvantageous to your dogs health. Studies have shown increased risk in joint problems, urinary incontinence and in several other types of cancer in female dogs that have been spayed, compared with female dogs that have been left intact. This is obviously something we need to consider before booking our female dogs in for a spay. Spaying your Dog risks Urinary Incontinence. A recent systematic review has looked at the increased risk of incontinence in the female dog after spaying. Seven studies were identified of which four were at high risk of bias. The review concluded that there was some weak evidence to suggest that spaying may be associated with increased risk of urinary incontinence. Especially if carried out before three months old. Urinary incontinence in spayed female dogs may be treatable with hormone replacement. Much more worrying is the recent research into the association between neutering and the risk of certain cancers. Cancer Risks of Spaying your Dog. Some studies have shown that spayed female dogs, whilst less at risk from mammary cancer, are more at risk from some other cancers. A study on golden retrievers in showed an increase in risk of two different types of tumor in female dogs that were spayed later in life, compared with those that were left intact. It also showed a significant increase in CCL cruciate ligament tears in female dogs spayed early in life. A study on Hungarian Vizslas over two thousand of them showed a significant increased risk of several types on cancer in female dogs that had been spayed, compared with those that had not. These risks from other types of cancer, may balance out the advantages of a reduction in mammary cancer through spaying. If indeed there is one. Joint problems in Spayed Dogs Sex hormones are involved in growth, and in slowing the growth of an animal as it reaches puberty. Dogs that are neutered before sexual maturity grow longer leg bones. This alters the angle of the joint and may be the reason that studies have shown an increase in serious joint problems in female dogs that have been spayed. This is important, not only for working dogs, but for pet dogs too. CCL tears involve expensive surgery and long periods of inactivity and crate rest. Spayed Dogs Coat Condition and Temperament Last but not least, your spayed female dog is also likely to experience permanent changes in coat condition. This is unacceptable to those who are showing their dogs. There is also a perception that the female dog who is spayed very young may develop mentally in a different way from the entire female dog Perhaps altering her drive and potential in competitive fieldwork, though I could not find any concrete evidence for this. Nor is such evidence is likely to be forthcoming as gundogs do not complete their training before their second heat. Should I Spay My Dog? Because the competitive dog does not reach or show her full potential until after the optimum time for spaying. Selecting which female dogs to spay and which female dogs to breed from is problematical for owners of working or competition Labradors. Especially with the increased risk in joint problems being a factor. For pet dog owners, the situation is also still far from clear. The possibility of reduced risk of mammary cancers in intact female dogs may be outweighed by the risks of other cancers in spayed female dogs. The situation with regard to pyometra is an important consideration. If you leave your female dog unspayed throughout her life, she may well develop pyometra. For that reason alone, some owners will chose to spay their female dog at some point. The evidence for the benefits of spaying for the pet dog is incomplete. We have made several changes to this article since it was originally published. Do please let us know if you think this article needs updating again with new research. Further reading. When the best time to spay or neuter your puppy can be a tricky decision, complicated by new research, old veterinary traditions and recommendations, and your own personal situation. For these reasons, we at Eromit do not require you to spay or neuter your puppy at any particular age but do make strong recommendations based on our experience and study of the subject. There are also incentives offered for following these recommendations although as long as the puppy is not allowed to breed, we do offer the new owners leeway in making the decision. Here are some of the factors you want to consider: Preventing Accidental Litters— This does need to be a major consideration. We know that none of our puppy owners want to have their dog bred indiscriminately and contribute to the scores of mixed breed or unplanned puppies that are born each year. The main deterrent for most people however, is that no one wants to be responsible for many unplanned puppies for their entire life if it can be avoided. Owners of female puppies should consider that Labs can come into season as early as 6 months of age although months is more common in our line and that strict containment is required for 30 days from the start of the heat cycle. This means- no boarding kennels, no visits to the dog park, no unsupervised time in your own backyard since stray males are extremely motivated and able to break in! Owners of male dogs should consider the lure of intact females in the neighborhood and how that will affect their ability to be contained or controlled. Plan ahead so that you know what you will do when your puppy comes into season. Containing your dog and preventing a breeding can be done rather easily if you are prepared we do it here all the time, ask for tips if you need them! Health Considerations — When you talk to your vet, most will cite two main advantages to having your dog spayed or neutered at a young age. These are: 1 the prevention of mammary cancer in female dogs and 2 the prevention of prostate cancer and testicular cancer in male dogs. Both of these are true although to a much lower degree than you might realize. A dog who is spayed after her first heat cycle has double the risk of mammary cancer from a dog who is spayed before her heat cycle. What is often not mentioned is that the risk goes from 0. New studies coming out show many benefits to waiting until your dog is completely done growing in order to spay or neuter them. On a logical level, this makes sense because we all know that sex hormones are removed during spay or neuter surgeries, and that sex hormones are involved in the normal maturation process of any animal. For example, what makes a young human boy look and act like an adult man? Puberty- which requires testosterone! Newer studies are showing that dogs who are spayed or neutered before maturity are more at risk of bone and heart cancer, ruptured cruciate ligaments a serious debilitating knee injury that is very expensive to fix , hip dysplasia, allergies, and much more. At the bottom of this page are links so that you can see these studies for yourself — PLEASE read them and print them off to discuss further with your vet. From a performance perspective, you definitely do not want to spay or neuter your pet before they are done growing. Dogs who are altered too soon will grow longer and more disproportionately than if they were left intact. This altered growth pattern is precisely what contributes to the increase bone and joint problems and makes for a less physically stable dog and often noticeably taller, especially in the rear end than he was genetically programmed to be. Behavior and Training— Many sources will indicate that in order to remove the possibility of behavior problems like marking, humping, or aggressive behaviors, you should have your puppy neutered or spayed at a young age. Again, new research is proving this old wives tail to be false. You can teach an intact male to be polite and clean in the house as easily as any other type of dog. You can socialize your intact male or female to play politely or ignore other dogs of the same or opposite sex. Humping is as much a play behavior as a sexual behavior and you can teach your dog other ways to interact with people, toys, and other animals. If you want to see real life examples of this, you need only to meet our dogs, intact males and females interacting which each other and our older retired spayed females. Practical Reasons— If you travel a lot, such that your dog must board in the care of others; or if you utilize services like dog walkers, doggy daycare, etc, if there are other intact opposite gender dogs in your household or an abundance of stray dogs in your area- those are major reasons why you should consider spaying or neutering your dog. However, we still urge you to wait until AFTER your dog is physically mature to do this, which may mean that you need to consider alternate boarding or care arrangements until sterilization is complete. Links for further reading. These varying opinions are a result of the many different reasons you should fix a male dog and a female dog. Some reasons can be to best care for the health of your dog while other reasons for fixing could be to eliminate risk of having an accidental mating resulting in unwanted puppies who may end up in shelters or homes where they are not cared for properly. There are different reasons to spay and neuter a Labrador if you are considering health first. However, fixing your dog at the wrong time could increase the risk of many health issues for your Labrador that could otherwise be avoided. First off you will want to keep your Lab away from other dogs who you do not know if they are fixed or not. Female dogs emit a strong scent that males can smell from miles away. So if your female is not yet fixed be sure to keep her inside or on a leash and supervised while outside. All it takes is thirty seconds of her not being watched and suddenly you could have an intact male jump your fence or dig under resulting in a lock between the two. So having your dog neutered early and spayed early is important to do your part to keep the unwanted pet population down. However, it is important that the females are spayed earlier than the males for health reasons. It is generally accepted practice to spay the female Lab early, and by early I mean before their first heat. It is also accepted that male Labs be neutered a little bit later once they are fully grown. The recommendation is to spay before their first heat which helps eliminates unwanted dogs in shelters AND eliminates some big cancer and other medical risks for her. However, spaying your female this early could contribute to joint issues such as hip dysplasia because their hormones are being altered before they are fully grown. One problem that arises if she is not spayed prior to her first heat is the risk of Pyometra. In intact females the effect of sex hormones can result in over stimulation of cells in the uterus which eventually may result in a severe E coli infection and a pus infection in the uterus. Signs of Pyometra can include lethargy, increased thirst, increased urination, not eating, a foul odor coming from their behind, draining of Pus from the vulva, excess licking of the vulva, collapse or fever related to signs of shock. If you observe any of these symptoms in your Lab after her heat cycle take her to the Vet right away as Pyometra could result in death for her if her uterus ruptures and causes a severe infection bacterial infection in the blood stream and abdomen. Other issues that present themselves if you leave your female Labrador to have a heat while in tact are cancer related. On average a female Lab will have her first heat around six months of age so spaying her in advance of this will help avoid most issues related to cancer such as mammary tumors. The statistic available at the time of writing this is that Labradors who are spayed prior to their first heat only have a 0. Risks for other cancers such as uterine also decrease when they are spayed prior to their first heat. It is important to point out that not all mammary tumors are cancerous and actually most of them are not cancerous, but there is no reason to encourage these tumors simply because they are not cancerous. The down side to spaying before your girl is fully grown is that her hormonal balance will be altered. In order for her to grow naturally she needs the hormones available to her naturally. Altering this natural balance could result in development problems with her joints and result in hip dysplasia or other joint issues or tendon ruptures. The same study goes on to identify that hemangiosarcoma cases in late-spayed females was 4 times more than females spayed early. One final point to mention is that spayed females may also develop a weakened bladder known as spay incontinence or urinary incontinence. So, to sum this all up for female Labradors, at present it appears that fixing them early can greatly reduce the risk of certain types of cancer while increasing the risk of joint-related problems. So how do you decide? We recommend becoming as informed as possible, consulting with your Veterinarian, and then prioritizing your reasons for spaying. On the male Labrador side, if you neuter your pet you can still have a happy pet and often more healthy! Generally you neuter a male after they are fully grown because they require their hormones to thicken up and develop as a male dog would normally. Fully grown is at different times for different breeds of dogs. Generally the larger your dog is the longer it takes them to mature. Large breeds could take up to two years to fully grow and medium breeds are closer to one year. Neutering your Lab will also pretty much eliminate the risk of prostate disease including cysts, abscesses and prostate enlargement. Perineal hernias can also be mostly avoided as they are primarily seen in intact males. A Perineal hernia is when organs from the belly slip through the weakened muscles of the pelvis resulting in a bulge on one or both sides of the anus. As well, neutering your Labrador removes the risk of testicular cancer which is mostly seen in intact male dogs. There are some behavioral issues related to neutering that are worth mentioning. There are however some behavioral issues that are related to male hormones. These can be things such as roaming, mounting other dogs, attraction to female dogs, urine marking and even aggression. Good Labrador Retriever breeders would do this in their breeding programs, however, I have never seen an aggressive Labrador who has been trained and cared for properly. Normally an aggressive dog will be neglected or abused which ends up training them to act that way. Neutering may help to dampen or eliminate any behaviors that are related to the hormones. So there are many points that require your consideration, advice from your breeder and advice from your Veterinarian. In the world we live in today we are all trying to do the absolute best we can for our pets. We cannot, however play God. So once you have enough information sit with your family and have a brief discussion. Weigh the pros and cons of spaying and neutering and then make your decision. Then, forget about it. Once your decision has been made return to enjoying your Lab puppy for the time you have with them.