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Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Pug need? Pugs are playful and affectionate dogs who love being by your side. This makes them pawfect for people with families. How much exercise does an adult Pug need? Roughly 30 minutes in their daily routine should do the trick. There are many ways you can get your Pug to hit their exercise goals. And if you want to keep them mentally stimulated, swapping out a walk with some enrichment games can go a long way for them. But as owners, knowing exactly how much they need can be difficult. How much exercise does a Pug puppy need? The typical rule of thumb is that 5 minutes of formal exercise for each month your pup has been in this world is enough for them. This is because over-exercising them can cause their health issues to worsen, and affect their hips and knees causing hip dysplasia further down the line. Our app will even adjust their exercise goal for them as they grow. How much exercise does a senior Pug need? It may come as a surprise to people that dogs can become seniors as early as 8 years of age. Around this time you may notice your furry companion slowing down or having less interest in their games. How can I keep my Pug busy? Command training. This keeps your dog busy and helps with mental stimulation and has the added benefit of helping your pup with their training. You can start with more simple commands such as sit, wait and look, and work your way up to the more difficult ones like heel, rollover, and paw. Toys can be used in multiple ways and come in all shapes and sizes. From a dog-approved rope to play tug of war with, to a fluffy dinosaur for them to tear apart. Treat-release toys. These are particularly good because it involves no work on your part. Just fill them up and let your dog do the rest. No matter what type of exercise your furry friend does, PitPat is the perfect way to keep track. These dogs could be pawfect for you thanks to their low exercise needs. Single page Single page 10 best dog breeds for city living City life often means apartment living and you might think this would make owning a dog difficult. While it is sensible to avoid large dog breeds there are lots of smaller dog breeds will be perfectly happy living the high rise lifestyle. Pug Exercise Overview Exercising your Pug plays an essential role in long-term health and is a vital part of overall care. While you must take care when exercising your little guy or gal, by no means should you avoid it or be afraid of it. A sedentary Pug is an unhealthy Pug. The key is to find the right balance. The Benefits of Exercising a Pug There are many reasons to keep your Pug active: 1 It helps maintain muscle tone which in turn promotes good posture and proper support surrounding the hips and knees. Since this breed is prone to elbow dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes and hip dysplasia, this is a very relevant benefit. Exercise Restrictions for Pugs Pugs can and should be exercised every day. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind. You will want to avoid: 1 Excessive exercise when under 10 months old. This is a time of rapid growth and very excessive exercise can affect growth plates, the soft areas at the end of bones where cells continually divide, allowing bones to properly grow as the pup matures into his adult size. Once growth is complete, the plates close. If a puppy is put under too much physical stress, there can be damage to those plates which can lead to malformed or shortened limb s. Normal walking and play are not considered excessive. You will want to avoid lengthy full-out runs or forcing activity when a pup has reached his limit. This breed is prone to bloat. To help prevent this, avoid having your dog run around in the yard or taking a purposeful, brisk walk until one hour has passed after a meal. Pugs, being a brachycephalic breed, have some level of stenotic nares narrow nostrils and elongated palate soft tissue at the back of the root of the mouth partially blocks the windpipe. This can cause noisy breathing and it limits to what extent a Pug can endure physical activity. Heavy breathing is also an indication of heat stress that if not addressed can lead to heat stroke. During an exercise session, breaks should be taken every 15 minutes or so; but, should be halted if a Pug is struggling to catch their breath. When the temperature is soaring and especially if the air is very humid this can exacerbate breathing issues. Activity may need to be scaled back or brought inside. Age to Start Exercising a Pug If you just brought home a new puppy, you may be very eager to start taking your Pug for walks around the neighborhood or head out to the dog park. However, Pug puppies should not be brought out to public places for exercise until all puppy shots have been given. This is typically by the age of 12 to 14 months old. You will want to confirm this with your Pug's veterinarian. This should be a light to moderate cardio that slightly increases heart rate and keeps a Pug's body in motion. This can be greatly extended for Pugs that are healthy and enthusiastic to stay more active than this. With precautions in place, a Pug can go for an hour walk or more and there can be 3 to 4 exercise sessions per day. Exercise frequency and duration can be adjusted as needed. Weather including hot summer days or freezing winter days can affect a Pug's tolerance for outdoor activity. It can help to split up exercise sessions into shorter intervals, for example, four minute walks as opposed to two minute walks. And, as a Pug transitions into the senior years or if there is a develop of hip or joint issues, exercise may need to be scaled back. In most cases, there is never a valid reason to completely stop exercising a Pug since remaining sedentary often leads to a wide range of health issues. Going for walks is the most traditional method of ensuring that a dog meets their exercise requirements and for good reasons. There is always a Point A and a Point B which gives you both a goal and helps ensure proper duration. And, unlike free-running, intensity can be adjusted by you, as you see fit. This is another excellent way to keep a Pug active. This refers to a controlled physical activity session, often with alternating short bouts of cardio and rest. The classic game of fetch fits into this category and is a good choice since most dogs find it to be very enjoyable and it helps strengthen the owner-dog bond. In addition, fetch can be played both indoors and out, making this perfect no matter the weather. Tips for Walking Your Pug By following some easy guidelines, you can take your Pug for walks knowing that you are allowing your dog to reap the benefits of exercise in a safe manner. When exercising a Pug, breathing-related issues must always stay a top priority. And, the accessories that you place on your Pug play a huge role in this. Collars place pressure and tension against the windpipe which can severely impact a Pug's ability to breath. Each pull on the leash or lunge to the side puts compression on already stressed airway structures. Avoid this by using a harness. This distributes tension from the leash onto the shoulders, back, and chest where Pugs have strong skeletal muscles. There are different types of harnesses including step-in and pull-overs, straps and vests. One recommended one is the Puppia Soft B Vest Harness which is an easy step-in design nothing needs to be pulled over the head with an air-mesh fabric that keeps a Pug comfortable and cool, and an easy-close Velcro flap on the back. When you take your Pug for walks, you will want to be in control of the pace and the easiest way to accomplish this is to have your Pug in a heeling position; this means to your immediate left and no further ahead than the extension of your foot. For this, you will hold the handle of the leash in your right hand, allow the leash to cross past your body, and then grip it near your left hip. Using a 6-foot leash or a retractable leash will help you feel comfortable when doing this. For this, you may wish to consider the Flexi Retractable Dog Leash which has a very comfortable grip and a one-handed brake button. Offer a break for rest and hydration at the halfway mark of a short walk and every 15 to 20 minutes on a long walk. This should be done even if your Pug seems to be handling their exercise just fine and there are no signs of overheating. You may wish to bring along a collapsible bowl and a chilled water bottle or an all-in-one option like the Tuff Pupper Portable Water Bottle. Concrete, pavement, and brick can all reach over F degrees during the summertime which can cause burns to the paws. If you cannot hold your palm to the surface for a count of 5, it's too hot for your Pug to walk on. Paw wax see tip 7, ahead , staying in the shade, or rescheduling walks for early morning and later in the evening can help with this; generally taking your Pug out before 10 AM and after 5 PM will help you avoid the hottest parts of the day. Keep your Pug securely in a heel position so you can react to and help with any traction issues. Paw wax see next tip can help with this. On days that the temperature is below freezing, limit the duration of the walk. And, during stormy weather snow or ice storms your dog's safety is more important than that one exercise session, so the walk may need to be put on hold. Paws take a beating when a dog is out and about. Hot walking surfaces, frozen walking surfaces, allergens, irritants, and slippery small gravel or ice surfaces are all possible issues. Applying a paw wax can help with all of these aspects. A good one to use is Musher's Secret Paw Protection Wax ; this absorbs pretty quickly, only has to be applied once every 2 weeks, and does a great job at offering a breathable layer of protection and better traction. The last thing you want to happen is that your Pug tires out once you're at the halfway mark and still need to turn around and cover the same amount of distance to return home. On the first day, go half the distance and see how your Pug did. You can then add on more distance the next time. With your little guy or gal on a harness and in the heeling position previous tip 1 , you can speed up, slow down, go around telephone poles, swerve around bushes, etc. This can be played in many places including your own yard or a park or can be kept inside on days with bad weather as long as you have room in your house. Some dogs naturally know how to play and others need a bit of time to catch on. Here are some tips to keep this a fun and beneficial activity. If this is going to replace a walk, set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes. The more animated you are and the more you let yourself laugh, the more your Pug will want to chase after the fetch toy and enjoying bringing it back to you for another go. Even if your Pug can't catch the ball in the air or is a bit confused about what to do, your encouraging words will keep things moving along. Give praise for 'good tries' and effort that your Pug puts into the game. And, offer a reward treat when the game is complete. A fun fetch toy for outside games is the Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Spinning Toy ; this brightly colored fabric toy does some pretty wild soaring and is easy for a dog to mouth. And, if you have some space in your house like a large room or a long hallway, you can play fetch with your Pug using a toy like the Chuckit! Indoor Roller Dog Toy. There is an optional launcher that shoots the ball for you, if your arm needs a rest. While you do want to keep your Pug moving for at least 15 minutes, it's best to end the game while your little guy or gal is still having fun. This will help your puppy or dog look forward to the next session. If your Pug has a hard time accepting that the game is over and is clamoring at you to continue, you can give one last throw and then offer a reward treat as a sign that the session is truly over. Switching to a new activity like brushing the coat can help your Pug make the transition. Alternative Ways to Keep a Pug Active 1 Dog parks can be a great place for a Pug to move around if he is otherwise reluctant at home. Interacting with other dogs can be motivation to run around and can be a good way to build social skills. You will want to be sure to visit a park that has separate areas for dogs based on size. Never let your Pug into an area with much larger dogs. Keep an eye on your Pug to assess breathing and separate him for breaks and re-hydration as needed. Keeping visits to the park to 1 hour is a good time limit. This is a low-impact exercise that is sometimes used in recovery therapy for dogs being treated for joint issues. This said, since the Pug has a barrel-shaped body, this breed is not the most proficient swimmer. Play it safe by having your Pug wear a canine life vest and staying by their side for close supervision. Be sure to rinse your dog off afterward to make sure chlorine and pool chemicals are washed from the skin and coat. Pugs can go on hikes and explore many places with their humans. If you search for hiking places to bring your Pug, the 3 aspects to focus on are distance, difficulty, and terrain. It's recommended to stick to trails no longer than 2 miles if you plan to loop around , those rated as easy or introductory, and with a terrain of solid, soft, or gently rolling hills avoiding those marked steep or rough. A Final Word Since the Pug breed is prone to weight gain and certain joint issues, exercise is an important part of care that will help keep your dog's body in good shape, maintain important muscle mass, keep the heart healthy, and burn calories. Pugs tend to mimic their owners; if their human is happy to sit around all day, a Pug may be perfectly content to snooze the day away. But, if their human sends out a vibe that engaging in exercise is fun, a Pug is often more than happy to join in. Keep your Pug active while being away of their limitations; it's an important step in extending your Pug's life span to be as long as possible. Did you find this to be helpful? Are you a PetPugDog Member? If not, join us today by becoming a free Membe r; this will allow you to receive newsletters that announce new articles and important information. Other articles you may like: Pug Paw Care - Great tips to keep the paws in good shape and remedies for common yet troublesome paw issues. Leaving a Pug Home Alone - It's not easy heading out to work, school, or even to run errands if you know your Pug has a hard time being alone. This article offers super-helpful tips for keeping a Pug occupied and happy while you're away. Top Pug Care Tips - A helpful round-up of the 15 things you can do to ensure your Pug puppy or dog for optimal safety, health, and happiness. Taking Care of a Pug's Teeth - Ignoring the teeth now can have terrible consequences later. Learn how to keep your Pug's teeth strong and healthy. Includes breed bite set and common issues. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Pugs are a small and charming breed known for their distinctive wrinkled face, short muzzle, and curly tail. They have a long history dating back to ancient China, where they were treasured as companions to Chinese royalty. Pugs have a compact and sturdy build, with an average height of cm and a weight ranging from kg. Their life expectancy is usually between 12 and 15 years. What is the temperament of Pugs like? Pugs have a friendly and affectionate temperament, making them excellent companions and family pets. They are known for their love of human company and thrive on attention and companionship. Pugs are generally good with children and get along well with other pets. They have a fun-loving and playful nature, always ready to entertain and bring joy to their owners. Pugs are known to have a strong bond with their families and can be quite sensitive to their owner's emotions. How much exercise do Pugs need? Pugs have a moderate exercise requirement and should be provided with daily physical activity to keep them fit and healthy. They need approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise each day, which can be split into multiple short walks or play sessions. It's important to note that Pugs can be prone to overheating due to their short muzzle, so exercise should be done during cooler times of the day and in shaded areas. Be mindful of their breathing and avoid strenuous activities that may cause respiratory distress. Pug puppies have different exercise requirements compared to adult dogs. Their growing bodies and developing joints require caution to avoid injury. It's recommended to provide short and gentle exercise sessions for puppies, focusing on playtime and controlled activities that don't put excessive strain on their joints. Avoid long walks or high-impact activities until they are fully developed, usually around 12 months of age. Do Pugs need a lot of grooming? Pugs have a short, smooth coat that is relatively easy to maintain. They are average shedders and require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and remove loose hair. A weekly brushing session with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt is usually sufficient. They should be bathed every months or as recommended by your vet or a professional groomer. Pugs are prone to wrinkles and folds on their face, so it's important to clean and dry these areas regularly to prevent skin irritation or infection. Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. Are Pugs easy to train? Pugs are generally intelligent and eager to please, but they can have a stubborn streak, which can make training a bit challenging at times. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and treats, work best when training Pugs. They respond well to praise and gentle guidance. Keep training sessions short, fun, and engaging to maintain their interest. Consistency, patience, and a sense of humour are key when training Pugs. Early socialisation and basic obedience training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and confident dogs. What do Pugs eat? A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for the overall health and well-being of Pugs. Feed them high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Puppies should be fed a puppy-specific small dog diet formulated to support their growth and development. Most puppies should be fed times a day until 6 months old, when this is reduced to twice daily. As they mature, they can transition to adult dog food. It's important to monitor their weight and adjust their portion sizes accordingly to prevent obesity, as Pugs can have a tendency to overeat. Consult with your vet for specific dietary recommendations and feeding guidelines for your Pug. Are Pugs healthy? Pugs may be prone to certain health conditions. Some common health concerns in Pugs include: Body Weight Obesity - Abnormal or excessive fat accumulation leading to secondary health concerns. Bones and Joints Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis Hemivertebra - one or more deformed vertebrae which can cause spinal cord compression which can lead to pain, weakness or an inability to walk Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: a hip condition that affects the blood supply to the head of the femur bone, leading to breakdown of the bone, pain and lameness. Skin Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation. Skin fold dermatitis - inflammation, and possible infection of the skin between two skin folds. This list is by no means comprehensive, if you have any concerns about the health of your dog, or if you want to discuss further if a Pug is right for you, consult with your vet. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet. Toy Breed Dogs Breed Guides. If this is your first time owning a small dog like a Pug, you may not know how long you can walk a Pug puppy? These small dogs will love walking right beside you, but they need special attention and care during their walks, unlike other breeds. However, if you like to have fun and play around with your Pug, too, keep the total exercise time from 40 minutes to one hour as recommended by the UK Pug Dog Club and the American Kennel Club. Cute little Pugs, with their funny flat faces, big sparkling eyes, and curly tail, are so fascinating and attractive, but they stay low-key most of the time. They show only short bursts of energy, hence enjoying shorter playtimes and leisure walks rather than brisk marches. It is essential to know that long, fast walks would result in severe breathlessness and even joint problems for your Pug. Avoid Strenuous Walks With A Pug Puppy Long walks, running up and down the stairs, or jumping around excessively is considered a strenuous activity for them. Their activity should be strictly monitored and controlled. After long, high-speed walks, you will most probably find them snorting and short of breath. If you try to walk your puppy too much too fast, they may sit down and refuse to walk. So be prepared to carry them as this breed can have a stubborn streak. Vigorous exercise during this time can negatively affect the soft areas at the end of the bones where the cells continuously divide for the growth of limbs. There should be no walking until at least 1 hour after eating, as this can cause your puppy to suffer from bloats, which is a serious medical condition for pugs. Their stomachs fill with gas, leading to cutting off the blood supply to the stomach. Instead, they will keep struggling to match your pace, ending up tired and breathless. Since pugs do not have a perfect breathing system, they end up in heavy breathing even after a short period of walking. Using a harness while walking can help reduce any stress on the throat area of the pug puppy. This allows them to breathe freely, which can lead to a longer walking duration. Always keep an eye on your Pug, especially when they are outdoors with you. Try to keep them comfortable and cared for. Walk Time and the Effect of Weather Pugs have a short snout which hinders their breathing rate, causing problems in extremely hot weather conditions. So, refrain from taking your puppy out in the heat. Even letting them lie in the sun may cause it to overheat and the breathing issue to aggravate. Since regular activity is required to keep your pup healthy and fit, do not restrict its activity even in summers. Just alter the timings and walk your Pug a little earlier in the morning or late in the evening. Do not let it wander away while walking or playing, as it may run excessively and warm up too much. Pugs do not enjoy rainy weather and moisture either. Here are some tips to make walking your Pug in the rain, easier, especially when they refuse to go. You may prefer to walk your dog in shady, sheltered areas on such days. Winters may also not be favorable for your Pug, but avoiding walks may make your puppy a couch potato. While planning to have a stroll in such weather conditions, simply make sure your puppy has a warm, cozy coat on. Start with giving your pet access to a small open area — a garden at your place can initially be an ideal strolling spot. It is soft for the short limbs of your Pug and gives better practice before moving onto the harder surfaces and pavements. It will stay under your observation in a garden and yet will have the freedom to walk the way it wants. Let your pup play and walk itself first, followed by a lead-walking practice. Moving gradually from a slower to faster pace would lead to building up of the stamina. Setting up a reward system to train your puppy to walk for longer durations of time may prove to be very beneficial. They are fond of your love and affection. Their playful nature makes them great family dogs. This breed is extremely loyal and will bond quickly with its human family, making them a kid-safe breed. Though small in size, they possess an enormous personality. Not only are they fun-loving, but extremely smart, observant, and fast learners too. They tend to learn and develop habits at a very young age. Be sure to check out these Pug training secrets that dog trainers use on all breeds of dogs, even stubborn breeds like Pugs. Final Word A young puppy should walk no more than 20 minutes at one time until they have built up their endurance. Pug Puppies are not ideal dogs for long walks and need exceptional care and attention when taken for a walk. A loving owner would nonetheless find it highly amusing to train their pug puppy for walks- your Pug will make sure to stay at the center of your attention and will never let you feel frustrated or tired! Unlike other dogs, these brachycephalic dogs. She would get all excited when I would get her harness and leash out of the closet. She knew that we were going to go for a walk and when she was younger, I would take her on a daily mile walk. However, it took a while to build up her endurance to be able to walk that much. This breed is NOT built for rigorous exercise and should never go for long-distance runs. They are more active when they are young and become lazy as they become an adult. Here are some tips that you can use to help you make the most of your walks together. Pugs have small necks and are known for their breathing problems. It is not a natural feeling for a dog to be constrained by a leash and their first reaction is to pull. Using a collar can cause them to have breathing issues and this experience will just create a negative experience with walking. Make sure that you find the best harness for your Pug before you attempt to walk them. This will protect their neck if they do start pulling and will also give you more control over them. Walk Them Daily: Just like anything else you want to achieve, it takes time and practice. If you want Fido to enjoy and look forward to the walks, you have to get them into the daily routine. Mindy never had a problem when I walked a semi-fast pace. Your dog should be able to walk beside you without having to jog. You want to maintain a pace that keeps them from stopping and sniffing everything in sight. They will let you know if they need to relieve themselves by pulling on the leash. Walk Them In The Morning: Pugs do not perform well in the heat and can struggle with breathing issues. Make sure that you avoid strenuous exercise during the middle of the day when the temperatures can be too hot. I always made it a point to walk Mindy early in the morning after she had her breakfast. At one point I tried walking her before breakfast, but she always woke up hungry. So instead of changing her feeding schedule, I would just feed her before our walks. We had a portable bowl for Mindy when we took her on picnics or to the dog park. Pugs have respiratory issues and should never be walked in extremely hot temperatures. Make sure you have plenty of fresh water on hand to help keep them cool when walking in hot temperatures. Just in case you need to take a little break. We walked Mindy on a sidewalk, we always made sure that Mindy walked out the inside further from the traffic. Young babies are active and love attention and look forward to playing and exercise. However, as a Pug becomes older, you will notice that they will want to spend more time sleeping and lounging around the home. If your pet is tired from overexertion of playing or just not feeling up for a walk, make sure you respect their wishes. If your canine friend refuses to go for a walk in the rain, you should respect that. Of course, you can use an umbrella to keep them dry while walking. There are plenty of warm sunny days that I could take her for morning walks. Pugs are brachycephalic dogs , this means that they are prone to breathing problems that can be caused by hot temperatures. If you do, make sure that you have plenty of water and try to choose a walking trail that is shaded. I had this happen with Mindy when she was young. I took her hiking because I thought she would enjoy it. When we were around 10 minutes into the hike, she refused to walk. She sat down and there was nothing that I could to get her to walk, except pick her up and carry her. The best thing you can do is take some treats with you on your walks. If they refuse to walk, see if you can use the treats to get them moving again. Maybe they woke up and are suffering from diarrhea and vomiting? If you have pet insurance for your Pug , you can take them to the vet to make sure that nothing is serious. Of course, if they are just having a bad day, make sure they get plenty of rest and skip their daily walk. Avoid Over Exercising Your Pug Walking your dog is a great way to bond with them and get physical exercise for both of you. Yes, you can get your dog accustomed to more exercise with proper training. Conclusion Having a pet is a great way for both of you to get active. Mindy was in my life for 16 years and we had a great time together. Enjoy the time you have with your pet. You May Also Like.

Our poodles are our family pets and are spoiled with lots of love and attention. They go on trips with us including errands and they love to take our boys to school and pick them up. They sleep in our bed with us every night. Gypsy will only sleep with mama but Rocco makes his rounds! We are dog lovers and have had several breeds over the years. Our middle son suffers from allergies so the standard poodle has been a blessing to us! We are fascinated with the breed as a whole. They are incredibly smart and intuitive. They love to run and play fetch and also be challenged with new tricks. Always so eager to learn and please! Welcome to True Blue Standard Poodles. I feel this is a wonderful definition for our Standard Poodles as well as our dedication to this amazing and beautiful breed. They express love, intelligence and loyalty in a way that can only be reciprocated in the same manner. They are silly, loyal and intuitive, They love to play and they love people…… especially their humans. Oh, and they are extremely smart! Hugging is such a huge human interaction unless you have encountered a poodle. They are the only breed I have known that can not only be hugged by any age child or adult but have graciously learned to hug back. Our poodles bow their heads to be hugged and use their paws to give hugs in return. Standard Poodles are extremely intelligent. One day I came home and asked him to hang a nail on our interior door. While willing, he questioned the reason, I told him I read that we can teach our dogs to ring a bell to let us know they needed to go out for the bathroom. He had a good laugh about that and was in total disbelief. Fast forward to two months later and now his favorite story is that not only did the pups get trained but now he himself is trained to let them out when they ring that darn bell! Standard Poodles are also elegant, energetic athletes who move with a light, springy gait. They excel in advanced obedience competition, where retrieving and jumping skills are required. In agility obstacle course competitions, they fly over, under and through the obstacles with a strength and grace that is breathtaking to watch. Although they are not an aggressive breed, most Standard Poodles make great watchdogs with protective instincts. When properly socialized as puppies, they have an attitude towards people that varies from friendly to politely reserved. I have many stories to tell about how Standard Poodles have fit into our family and am more than happy to visit with you about how they can fit into your family as well. We are so blessed.We are so blessed with our Phoebe. It took us a while to find the right person who could answer all of our questions and who cared about her pups future, but also made sure we had all the information we needed to care for our sweet girl. Shae gives the best care and love to her babies. Her puppies are well socialized, healthy and top quality. Shae even remembered and wished Phoebe a Happy birthday, which warmed our hearts. Thank you True Blue standard poodles for our girl Pheobe. Thank you Shae Bonnie Shae is amazing! Shae is amazing! Her poodles are so sweet and already so loved before they even come home. She was even working on housebreaking him, which was so helpful for us! We are so happy with our pup and would be thrilled to get another pup from Shae in the future. My puppy was spoiled before I got him! Shae is still keeping in touch and loving my new baby from afar. There is no doubt we picked the best breeders. They truly love their puppies and I would highly recommend them to anyone, family included. Our puppy, Declan has an amazing temperament, has taken easily to my pack of dogs, lets my son bear hug him, and has already brought us so much JOY! You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. Next you will meet our canine Gentlemen in living color and view their slide shows, pedigrees, height, weight and any testing results. They are kind enough to put up with us and our all night puppy deliveries. They deal with cancelled plans because a sweet mom decides she just has to have her puppies right then! Blake, my husband, as you probably have already read, is the love of my life. On July 28, we welcomed our bouncing baby boy, named Dustin Blake Sauls. So at that time we decided for Blake to take on all the responsibility of our home and he become a stay at home dad. Blake can be found cleaning, cooking, washing clothes and his favorite duty, taking wonderful care of Dustin when I am unable to do so. Even when I am able, he is right by my side helping. Clearly, we are a team. Before he became a dad, he did a lot of our grooming prior to Darlene starting with us on a full time basis. He kept all of our water troughs, tubs and pools clean and disinfected. Blake helped with the mowing, weed eating and other lawn maintenance. Unlike my daddy, Blake was raised in the city. I am sure as a young man he never dreamed he would be working full time putting up fences, taking care of a mini farm or grooming a Standard Poodle. Not only has he hung right in there and learned a lot from my daddy, he truly loves his new farm life. Blake will still runs errands like picking up dog food and other supplies if needed. He will also transport a puppy to the airport to be shipped and does a lot of our personal regional puppy deliveries as well. In Blake became EMS certified, which has come in handy occasionally here at the farm and in our home. Blake is a very soft spoken, quiet and mellow blessing in my life. Simple things we do together bring certain tranquility to my life that I have come to treasure. I cannot imagine loving any one more and I thank God every day for blessing me with a husband and an amazing father to our son, like Blake. He is has spent several years being a builder so his expertise in the construction of our facility has been irreplaceable. His hands have touched every fence post, shingle, nail and painted wall on the property. You will occasionally see him doing a two-step dance step while singing this tune. He brings a sense of humor to everything he does. My daddy is very out spoken and a little loud sometimes. He is very driven and sometimes forgets to slow down and enjoy life. But on the other hand my daddy has always loved babies of any kind and the puppies are no exception. Quite often we find him holding a newborn or talking to an older puppy while giving them a pat on the head or a big bear hug. Luckily for my dad, we have been able to bring on two amazing young men who have taken over the very difficult and labor intensive duties that my he did in the beginning. You will read more about Zack and Cody below. My dad has gone back to his passion of driving a truck for a great company out of Wilson, NC, S. The twelve rolling acres, called Arrowhead Acres, located in Spring Hope, North Carolina is a long awaited dream come true for my mama and daddy. In Arrowhead Acres became our home as well. Blake and I are very thankful for our parents. Without their support thru the years, our life would have been much more difficult. Before my sister Holley decided to return to showing horses, my brother-in-law Brian could always be counted on to help when there was manual labor to be done. Brian puts on an air that he is not interested in the Poodles, but we know different and have caught him many times in the act of cuddling our Standard adults and babies! He loves the puppies too! He and my daddy would sometimes disappear for a couple of hours leaving us to tend to the canine members of our family and a while they will walk out on the back porch and yell, letting us know that our dinner is ready. We make our way to the house and walk into a meal of grilled chicken, steak or ribs with all the fixings. We can count on any one of the three to make us smile. Of course they are men and we are women, so they will make us cry from time to time. My little brother Luke and nephew Scott have always lent a helping hand. They love working with their daddies. They are like little men taking all the responsibilities assigned to them quite seriously. They both love to hunt with my daddy. Now that Scott is a teenager he works right along side with his dad at the tire shop he owns, Woodruff Tire, and can be seen driving a tractor around their farm. Luke has become a great helper here on our farm. When anybody needs a helping hand he is the one that always volunteers first. Luke can also be found out in the maintenance shop helping his dad change oil in our vehicles and farm equipment and sharping the blades for the lawn tractors. We never know what they will be into next. But he did such a good job we offered him a full time position which he graciously accepted. He keeps all of our water troughs, tubs and pools clean and disinfected. Our Standard adults have free feeding available at all times and Cody keeps all the feeders clean and inspected for bugs as well as keeping them filled with feed. This is not a hard job to do, but a hard job to do well! It takes up a lot of time. Cody helps Zack in the well care of our horses and keeps the stalls and barn clean. We concentrated on the two conformations of Standard Poodles. The Standard Poodle Club of America is, of course, made up of humans. They are pretty special, amazing and dedicated humans. They write the standards for the breed, and the standard has to some extent changed the original look and purpose of the Standard Poodle. Our primary goal is to enrich the very small gene bank of the Standard Poodle pedigrees, which is and will continue to be the best weapon against genetic disorders. The preceding statements may raise some eyebrows and ruffle some feathers. It might even become a topic on Poodle Forum, but we stand firm in our belief and respect those who disagree. We have added, in after lots of research and prayer, the ability to produce the very controversial colors of phantom Standard Poodles and parti Standard Poodles. Although these colors are permitted registration with the American Kennel Club, we hope someday these colors will be accepted on a higher level with AKC, by allowing the color variety in the show ring, just as in the cocker spaniels and other breeds of color are shown in the ring. A self-portrait of Rembrandt shows him with his parti colored poodle, in ! To read more about the origin of these poodles of color please click here. Here at Family Affair we will continue to learn and grow.

As an authentic Australian Labradoodle hobby breeder, They offer beautiful Labradoodles with the desirable, blocky-style head, stocky, heavy boned frame, and the signature luxurious, soft coats. AS members of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association, we have made it our focus to protect the health and future of our puppies while maintaining the integrity of the Labradoodle breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to quality, not only in the choice of premium pedigree characteristics, but also holding in upmost importance OFA hip, OFA elbow, and ACVO eye health clearances to ensure the healthiest labradoodle puppies possible. Labradoodles are known to have a laid back, easy going temperament and are great family friends. They are intelligent, easy to train, and typically finish at the top of their obedience classes. Our Sycamore Canyon Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding in stunning textures and colors. Our Sycamore Canyon Labradoodle family is so blessed to be involved in sharing our puppies with other loving, caring families. All of our puppies are raised for proper socialization and handling from birth. We have four children still at home, so our Labradoodles are loved n and played with in a positive and healthy environment, guaranteeing a foundation that will help them reach their full potential. Paying attention to how our puppies grow from the day they are born to their rehoming at eight weeks old, you can be confident that they are constantly exposed to everyday sights and sounds to create a positive experience that will enable them to become life long companions. We are dedicated to breeding healthy Labradoodles, and all our breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health tests for eyes, hips, elbows, and at least eight potential genetic conditions. Our breeding dogs live in loving guardian homes and are cherished members of wonderful families. They return to Brasken for delivering and raising their puppies. Our Guardian Home program allows our breeding dogs to stay with their families for their entire lives, ensuring they receive the love and attention they deserve. Labradoodle Puppy Care We believe in providing our puppies with the best care possible. Before coming home, our Labradoodle puppies receive their first set of vaccinations, deworming, and are microchipped. They come with a health record booklet, a familiar blanket, a bag of food, a puppy info packet, and a puppy training book to help you get started on the right foot. Frequently Asked Questions What breeding accreditations do you have? We are accredited by the AFAA, which recognizes us as one of the trusted labradoodle breeders in California. For our puppies we use the Pawprint Genetics Laboratory and ensure our breeding Labradoodles pass health tests for eyes, hips, elbows, and at least eight potential genetic conditions. Do the puppies come with a health guarantee? Yes, all our puppies come with a health guarantee. Can I visit your facility to see the conditions in which your dogs and puppies are kept? We do welcome people to come by to see our facility and the pups which you can do by scheduling an appointment. What is the puppy adoption process? Our puppy adoption process involves filling out a puppy application, reviewing our contract, and placing a deposit to reserve a puppy. Are the puppies trained and socialized before coming home? Yes, our puppies receive early socialization and handling. We start their training by introducing them to basic commands and potty training. What do your Labradoodle puppies come home with? Our Labradoodle puppies come home with their first set of vaccinations, deworming, a microchip, a health record booklet, a familiar blanket, a bag of food, a puppy info packet, and a puppy training book. What size Labradoodles do you breed? We breed miniature, medium, and standard-size Labradoodles. What generation do you breed? We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles for sale in California How much do your Labradoodles cost? We also have guardian labradoodles available if cost is a concern. For more information, please visit our website or contact us directly. We are excited to help you find the perfect Labradoodle puppy to join your family! We had researched breeders and liters for over a year until deciding on Brasken. We adopted our love bug a couple months ago and are beyond thrilled. Because Brandon and Kristen run a strict breeding program for health, temperament and beauty their pups are so exceptional. They will thoroughly educate you from A to Z on all things puppy to prepare you for adoption day and puppyhood. Our Frankie Grace is only 16 weeks old and listens to all our commands. I swear she is almost human. She is a dream. She loves hugs, running, playing ball, meeting new friends human and fur. Branden and Kristen were incredible to work with and provided us with all the right tools and information to bring our girl home. They are extremely knowledgable and caring to all puppies and their families. We couldn't be happier and look forward to our continued relationship with Brasken. They are amazing. They are dedicated to this breed and producing the best puppies. We were so impressed on our site visit to meet them and pick up our puppy. Our dog is wonderful, truly a part of our family. Cannot recommend them highly enough. Scroll through their website to see how awesome the dogs are they breed. You will fall in love with their puppies. Beth MacLean. With 17 years of experience in breeding Australian Labradoodles, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We work closely with our licensed vet to perform health testing, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. We provide a temperature controlled, in home my master bedroom environment, with sound therapy to expose your puppy to lifes sounds from an early age. This helps desensitize your puppy to the sounds of life traffic, fireworks, outdoor machinery, crying baby, misc appliances, automobiles, etc. We start crate training at 5 weeks with a soothing heartbeat snuggle puppy to comfort them as they transition to sleeping alone and all the puppies love it and sleep better with minimal crying. We add nutrients and special additives for puppies to their drinking water. We add probiotics to their food for a healthy GI tract and immune system. We make special liver water, gruel, with puppy supplements, dog milk formula to their nutritionally dense food to support eyes, ear, bone, joint, coat and heart health. We expose your puppy to sunlight daily on the deck right outside the puppy nursery area. There is always a plush bedding for their cozy comfort in their play areas for those impromptu naps puppies love. Our puppies are held and played with while being bathed and exposed to water, in our walk-in shower, which builds a positive experience, with water, for their lifetime. Bath time is with a human sitting in this large shower allowing plenty of space for your puppy too roam around and enjoy water in a nurturing experience. The puppies love it instead of being in a sink with a dry human just washing them. Water is actual playtime while they get clean and build positive experiences with being wet. Instead we utilize Puppy Culture, Badass Breeder protocols and tons of love from humans that are passionate and dedicated to what they do. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to providing you with your fury best friend! When full grown, these health tested, Australian Labradoodle puppies will be approximately pounds with wavy fleece coats, curly fleece coats or the occasional straighter hair fleece coats. Our puppies can go home as early as 8 weeks old. We can also hold back a puppy if you are interested in training services. Sugar Pine Doodles on Facebook. Would you like to be a guardian for one of our breeding doodles? Please click for our Guardian Home Program to learn more. Find the Next Member of Your Family. Testimonials As a veterinarian I work with multiple breeders. Charl and Jerry Beauchat have been clients of mine for several years. Their dogs are always kept in great condition. Every puppy is health checked and micro-chipped prior to going to its new home. Providing healthy family members remains a priority of mine as well as theirs Jonathan CortezDVM We can not say enough about the integrity of your program. Pete and Jiffy …head and shoulders above the pack when it comes to a quality breeder…. Do yourself a favor and visit Charl and Shadow Mountain Labradoodles if you are considering a new puppy. We have made a full time commitment to our program. Three of us work full time with our dogs, puppies and families. Charl and Jerry are in Southern California, our daughter Jena, has branched out and is now carrying on our work in Oklahoma! We are also currently training 10 new Australian Labradoodle Breeders in California, Oklahoma, Washington, Texas, Utah, Colorado, Missouri and Ohio to bless families and to protect this wonderful breed! Shadow Mountain Australian Labradoodles are bred with love and care in a home environment. We work hard to place our puppies in an environment where both the families and the puppies are set up for success. Quick Links. A Serious Case of Puppy Love. From Our Home to Yours. Welcome Australian Labradoodle Lovers! As Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we specialize in allergy-friendly Australian Labradoodles. We choose to breed just a few, select mini and medium labradoodle puppy litters each year. We have a whimsical, silly outlook on life and we like to think that our Labradoodle puppies are the same. We are located in between Northern and Southern California, however we do have a Puppy Nanny who will ensure that your Moo Cow puppy arrives to you safely, regardless of your location. Instead, we love that we can personally deliver these adorable California Labradoodle puppies when we have Labradoodle puppies for sale. Email us at moocowlabradoodles gmail. As premier Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we take our Labradoodle puppies seriously! Our dogs are a part of our family and live indoors. Every Australian Labradoodle has completed health testing and we strive for proper temperament, ability and conformation. Learn more about our Multigen Labradoodle breeding practices and state-of-the-art puppy nursery on our About Us page. Even if you are outside California and want a labradoodle puppy we have for sale, we can personally deliver it via our labradoodle puppy nanny service!

Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict. This is a good Boxer question; because many people think of these dogs as being fawn or brindle color along with white markings. The official Boxer breed can be can be a combination of 3 colors: Fawn standard Brindle standard White alternate Now, there are also 5 types of markings that a Boxer dog can have. But, he or she actually does not need to have any of those markings. Boxers without white markings carry the SS gene, known as the plain gene. Those with white markings carry the Ssw gene, known as the flashy gene. If two SS Boxers are bred together, the resulting litter will be plain no markings , with the only exception being a jump in genetics, in which case genes jump a generation and if grandparents hold flashy Ssw genes, the puppies may have some white. If 2 flashy Boxers Ssw are bred together, the resulting litter will be puppies with markings, unless genes skip a generation to bring in the white coloring. When people talk of a fawn or brindle Boxer, they are usually actually talking about a fawn or brindle Boxer with white markings and a black mask. While this is a common color combination, it is not the only combination for this breed. Therefore, if your Boxer is just fawn or brindle, he does not need to have any of the white markings. He would just be considered to be fawn or brindle Boxer. Puppies often change in color and markings as they grow. However, if a Boxer puppy was a fawn or brindle without any white, that dog would be registered with the AKC as a Fawn or Brindle and the Markings Section would not be checked off. So, your Boxer is simply fawn which can range from a light, tan to a darker reddish tone or brindle which is a striping pattern of tans and blacks. The black striping can be thin and well spaced apart showing lots of tan - again any solid shade from light tan to a darker shade with red tones or it can be very thick often referred to as reverse brindling or in extreme cases, seal. Below are samples of both colors without white markings. Brindle - A brindle colored Boxer is much different than a fawn. Brindle is a mixture of colors. There is always a base of tan again, some Boxers will have a light base, others a dark base and there will be striping lines of a dark color crossing through the coat. Usually the overlay is black, but some dogs will have red or dark brown. Fawn - This is a tan color that ranges from light to dark and can have reddish tones to it. It is solid and often described as the color of a deer. Though most think of this hue as being a light brown, it can also be a deeper, burnished red.

Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Rest assured when purchasing a dog from us that years of breeding and training experience have gone into the development and selection of your German shepherd dog or puppy. Black, Dark Sables, as well as Red and Black German shepherd male and female puppies are available by reservation. Martin Z. Riverside is over an hour drive from me in the valley, but; the puppies that come from the breeder are worth the drive and more! My all black German Shepard "Sirius" is an absolute dream! The breeder and his family truly care for the dogs and their upbringing. Arsalaan constantly checks in to see how me and Sirius are doing and is there to answer any questions you may have. Whether it's your first dog or not give him a call! He'll walk you through the steps and be there with you for guidance. Gavin U. Arsalaan and his family are very kind, caring breeders! When I first reached out to him, he was very quick with a response and easy to communicate with. He truly takes great pride in his pups and is very helpful to answer any questions that may arise. I brought Bear home with me on Dec 16 and he was nice, clean, and healthy upon pick up. Arsalaan provided Bear's list of shots as well as his pedigree and some other additional documents. You will not be disappointed working with him, highly recommend him and his family to help you bring home your newest family member! Mitchell K. Very responsible breeder, I came from Arizona and couldn't be happier. Very helpful before and after receiving my puppy. I highly recommended. Jimmy M. I call Arsalaan whenever I have questions and he is always very helpful with training tips and advice. I get a lot compliments on her looks. Elvia B. I am so grateful for all of the help I got from Arsalaan, and we also appreciate him following up on our puppy "Rexie". He's given us great advice even before we decided to get Rexie. Although he's up north about a 90 minute drive from us, it was definitely worth it. He kept our puppy even after her 8 weeks we couldn't bring her home because it was a Christmas gift. When I took Rexie to her first vet visit the vet said " this breeder definitely knows what he's doing ". Rexie came with up to date vaccinations and AKC forms paid for just have to finish writing them up. Our new family member is a happy and healthy puppy! Plus she sleeps through the night quietly from day one. Amazing Thank you Arsalaan. Their dogs live in roomy kennels and are raised in an environment fit for a growing puppy. In addition, the breeder has more than 30 years of experience in breeding German Shepherds. So, you can be assured that you are getting one of the best puppies. The puppies are socialized at an early stage. They grow up around family members, children, and other dogs, so they can easily adjust to their new homes. Moreover, all the puppies are up-to-date on the vaccinations and have been dewormed several times. The adoption process for getting your new best friend is relatively easy. The breeder starts taking deposits for puppies once a female is pregnant. So, you can find information regarding their upcoming litters on their website. The deposit will be transferred to another litter if you cannot get a puppy of your choice. Their dogs have superb conformation, high work drive, good temperament, and great genetics. The breeder takes excellent care to ensure their dogs are healthy and free from genetic diseases. So, they only breed dogs that pass different health tests. All dogs are certified with the OFA for hips, heart, and elbow issues. Sentinel Harts is an easy choice for German Shepherd puppies for sale in California because of their experience, high standard, and excellent customer service. Visit their website to view upcoming and available litter, and if you like a puppy, register your interest by filling out their application form and submitting a reservation fee. German Shepherd Breeder Information:. She had fleas and ticks and was starving. Ellie has now had surgery and is healing still in a cast and beginning to thrive. At first… The shelter sent us a request to help little Phoebe. She was found abandoned and alone with no water or food. She had parasites of every kind, including Sarcoptic Mange — highly contagious to other animals and to people. She was terrified… Abandoned and sick, uncared for puppies like Kenny and Nita who where undernourished, had a very high parasite load, and whose small bodies were starved for nutrition, found themselves in the shelter with a triple whammy. They were literally filled with parasites, they were boney and congested and had no other options beside rescue. She was 4 months old but the size of a 2 month old puppy, she was starved and in terrible condition. She was also in pain and having trouble… Samantha was a 3 month old puppy who was callously discarded like trash. Dumped in a shopping center, she watched her family drive away. A shopkeeper called animal control and Samantha landed in our safety net. And as if in… Our big beautiful youngster Rocky has left his sad past behind and gone to a brand new life of being adored! Congratulations to Rocky and his new family, and many thanks to your foster family! Skye is happily adopted and living the good life in her forever home. Thanks to all who helped her! Skye urgently needs our help. This 3 month old baby husky came to us today from the shelter with two broken… Our super sweet Petey got his forever home! He came to SCGSR needing emergency surgery, we patched him up, then he needed a special surgery for his neuter.

However, you can encounter several other Labrador colors thanks to genetic variation and different breeding practices. Below are six of the most common color varieties. Black Labrador Since four out of nine potential Labrador color gene variations result in a black coat, black Labs are the most common coat color in Labradors. So, the takeaway here is that black Labs are always the dominant coat color. People love black Labs for their soft, shiny coats. The black Labrador pose for a photoshoot! Yellow Labrador Yellow Labs come in as the second most common color after black Labradors. Unlike black Labs, which have an unmistakable, predictable color, yellow Labs can come in many different shades. The genetic makeup of yellow Labradors includes one-third of the possible Lab color combinations. The genetic codes include eeBB, eeBb, and eebb. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 3. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three primary Labrador colors. There are only two genes that will produce these dogs—EEbb and Eebb. As with yellow Labs, chocolate labs vary significantly in their coat color. Some chocolate labs have a light brown coat, others a medium brown, and some are even so dark that they appear mixed with black and brown. Aside from their genetic predisposition to an earlier death, these dogs can also suffer from the same issues as other Labs, including patellar luxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and canine hip dysplasia. So, if you have your heart set on buying a chocolate Lab, keep in mind that you may lose your best four-legged friend about 1. A chocolate Labrador Retriever having its coat brushed 4. They get their dark, reddish coat from the same gene as yellow Labs. But since yellow Lab genes can present a wide variation in yellow colors, it causes some puppies to enter the world with an almost red coat. Red Fox Labrador Retriever looks up. Silver Labrador You might have trouble recognizing a silver Lab as a Labrador when they walk by, given that this is such a distinct color deviating from the three primary colors. And, unfortunately for silver Labs, these dogs are a color variation from chocolate Labs. Another issue that silver Labs frequently face is color dilution alopecia. Alopecia is a condition when the immune system harms hair follicles, which leads to skin issues and hair loss. So, should you be interested in breeding your Labrador, please be responsible and never breed a silver Lab. Silver Labrador Retriever sitting in the forest. Like red fox Labradors, white Labs have the same genetic makeup as yellow Labs. Nevertheless, no one will mistake these dogs for pure white; they almost always retain a light cream-colored look, thanks to some yellow fur. Albinism is a life-threatening and rare genetic condition resulting from a lack of pigmentation. Albino Labs often die young and suffer from conditions like blindness and deafness. A white Labrador Retriever sits quietly. If you think mating two black Labradors is a guarantee for producing black Lab puppies, think again. Black is a dominant gene in Labs, but the color yellow always overrides black and chocolate. Instead, check out the chart below to see the puppy colors from mating different colored Lab parents. Parent Colors. Articles When we think of Labrador Retrievers, the classic triad of black, yellow, and chocolate coat options. However, this popular dog breed actually comes in more colors and patterns than that. Besides the common Black Labrador you normally see, there are actually 13 different aesthetic options Labrador Retrievers can come in, in terms of coat type, colors, and patterns. These include rarer variations like the Dudley Labrador and Merle Labrador variations. In the sections below, we shall take a closer look at all these variations in terms of how to spot them and anything else that makes each unique. Dudley Image from Best Bully Sticks Dudley Labradors are a variation of the Labrador breed born without any pigment on their nose, eyes, or paw pads. These surfaces appear pink, red, or a very light shade of pinkish-brown. Dudley Labradors are usually light-colored and may either be a very light shade of yellow or all-white. Their eyes are also a characteristically light shade of brown. The genes responsible for the Dudley trait on Labradors are generally unproblematic. However, the lack of pigmentation leaves the nose of the Labrador exposed to sunburns. Merle Image from Instagram: smillasdogdiary Merle Labradors are some of the most unique-looking dogs in general and not just in the Labrador breed. They can be recognized by the presence of dark, mottled patches on a white or other light-colored coat. The patches on a Merle Labrador are of different sizes and distributed randomly. The merle gene responsible for this trait also affects pigmentation and can give the Labrador blue eyes, especially if they are bred from two Merle Labs. Unfortunately, the gene is also associated with eye and ear diseases which are also more commonly found in double-merle settings. What makes them common is the fact that there are several genetic combinations that give this trait. They are also unique in that Black Labrador puppies can result from breeding yellow or even chocolate-colored Labs. Due to their wide availability, Black Labradors are arguably the most popular variation. They are also believed to be smarter and more hardworking than the other variations, even though there is no scientific basis for this. They have a predominantly black coat with tan markings. The markings are usually distributed in a predictable manner over the body. This includes markings over the eyes, on the snout, neck, chest, and limbs. However, these will have mixed features and may not fully look like typical Labs. It appears as a dark shade of brown, very similar to chocolate or liver. Among the 3 most acceptable Labrador colors, Chocolate Labs are the rarest. This is because the genetic combination responsible for the trait only appears rarely. Even with breeding between 2 Chocolate Labradors, there is always the risk the puppies may not all be chocolate. What makes them different is that their shade of chocolate brown is a bit lighter and has a rusty red quality to it. In some cases, the shade is so light that they look almost earthy brown, like that of a fox. No matter how light or dark the shade of red is, it is important for it to be a solid color so that the Lab can be considered a true red variation. Like Chocolate Labradors, the red variety also has a reddish-brown-colored nose. Yellow Image from Paw. The shade of yellow varies from a rich, almost golden yellow to a light tinge of yellow that can easily be mistaken for white from a distance. The shade of yellow on Yellow Labradors is also nowhere near as intense as that on Goldies. This is different from really pale Yellow Labradors, which may sometimes have more pigmented fur on the ears, paws, and snout. Contrary to popular belief, White Labradors are actually not all suffering from albinism. They get their white coat from a rare and recessive leucistic gene. They get their grayish-blue shade from a dilution gene that waters down the intensity of what would have been a black coat. This dilution gene on Blue Labradors affects not only the fur but also other black-pigmented surfaces like the nose. At first glance, it may appear black, but on closer inspection, you will notice even its nose has the same slightly watered-down shade. They are not as common as the single solid-tone coat types. However, they are way more common than the other patterns that Labradors could possibly come in. The markings occur mainly with Black Labradors and Yellow Labradors. The white fur, in these cases, is distributed mainly to the neck, chest, belly area, and paws. They are best appreciated on Yellow Labradors or brown Chocolate Labradors due to the contrast. The stripes are most pronounced over the back, torso, and limbs. It is also common to find Brindle Labradors with a combination of patterns, in which case white markings are the most common pairing. Short Haired Image from YuMove According to the American Kennel Club breed standards for the Labrador Retriever , the short-haired variety is the only recognized and accepted coat type. Thus the fur is straight and coarse to the touch. The short-haired Labrador has a double coat with a softer undercoat that offers protection from simple injuries. Interestingly, short-haired Labradors tend to shed a bit more than their longer-haired companions and thus need more attentive coat care. However, their faces typically have shorter fur. Despite long-haired Labradors being so gorgeous, the trait is considered undesirable and is a result of recessive genes in the dog breed. The fact that it is recessive means that two long-haired Labs have to breed to produce puppies with the same trait. When comparing the three classic variations, the Chocolate Labrador is the rarest among the rest, Black Labrador and Yellow Labrador. This is because the chances for the required chocolate gene combination to manifest are much lower. In general, blue and white are two of the rare Labrador colors, whereas the merle pattern is considered to be very rare in purebred Labs. What Color Lab Sheds Least? There is no single Labrador color that sheds any more or less than the other varieties. The myth that Yellow Labradors shed more than black or chocolate ones is commonly busted from the fact that yellow fur strands are a lot more visible and easier to spot on clothes and furniture than the darker strands. The intelligence of a Labrador has nothing to do with its coat type, color, or pattern. However, there is this belief that Black Labs are the smartest. This is simply due to the fact that they are the most commonly found around the world. A fox red and traditional yellow Lab, flanked by a pair of black Labs. Black, yellow, and chocolate are the three traditional coat colors recognized by the AKC. If you ask the American Kennel Club , those are the only acceptable colors for a Labrador. And even then, those dogs must have other specific color features like dark noses and lips to count as true Labradors. But lately, non-traditional Labrador retriever colors have increased in popularity. The coats on these dogs look like faded versions of the traditional colors. Charcoal, silver, champagne, and white Labs have all emerged on the scene. So where did these new colors come from? Are they associated with health problems? A yellow Lab rests with her black pups. The dogs that Labs originate from, St. Once multiple generations of Labrador retrievers reproduced, recessive-gene colors like chocolate and yellow emerged from other bloodlines. The sire and dam that produce the litter of puppies pass down those genes to the offspring. Natalie Krebs The black coat color gene is dominant, Wilson explains. The chocolate coat gene, on the other hand, is recessive. Say two black Labs breed and produce a litter of pups. If just one of the parents—in this example, the sire—has all-black genes, none of their puppies will be chocolate. All the pups will be black Labs. Chocolate Labrador retrievers carry the recessive gene for coat color. If two chocolate Labs produce a litter, all the pups will be chocolate, too. The same is true for a black Lab that breeds a chocolate Lab. If the black Lab only has black genes to pass down, all their puppies will be black. But if that black Lab has a recessive chocolate gene to pass down, the litter could include both black and chocolate pups. Two chocolate Labs can only produce a chocolate litter, Wilson explains. All these dogs—the parents and the offspring—only have recessive chocolate genes. This yellow Lab was bred from a black female and a fox red male. Natalie Krebs Yellow coats come from an entirely different pair of genes than black or brown coats. Yellow Labs have the widest range in coat color while remaining within the AKC breed standard, Wilson says. Yellow Labs must have dark, heavily-pigmented noses, eyes, and lips, but their fur can range from a lighter vanilla to fox red. But in reality, the earliest yellow Labs were fox red, Wilson says. The color was first documented toward the end of the 19th century, and today, this coat variation is well within the AKC breed standard for yellow Labs. One of the more common falters is the light brown or pink nose, lips, and eyes. But from a health perspective, says Wilson, yellow Labs with light features are more prone to complications. Yellow Labs fall outside the AKC breed standard when their lips, nose, and skin around the eyes is pink, rather than black. These types of Labs are often referred to as Dudley Labs. This can make the skin more prone to sunburn or melanoma. Lighter, more sensitive eyes also make it harder for the dog to work properly in the field. Black Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular bird dogs in the country. Alex Robinson The best traditional Labrador retriever color is, of course, a matter of personal preference. Each color has their pros and cons. Yellow Labs Are harder to disguise in marsh and timber Are tougher to keep track of during an upland bird hunt since they tend to blend into grassy cover Identifying ticks, cuts, and abrasions is easier on their light coats Black Labs Are easier to disguise in many waterfowl environments, including marsh and timber Are easier to spot while working thick upland cover Their dark coat makes it harder to notice ticks, blood, and thorns Chocolate Labs Are the least traditional of the traditional Labrador retriever colors Have amassed a loyal following over the years Blend well into most habitat types and environments Non-Traditional Labrador Retriever Colors If a puppy inherits the recessive dilute gene from both parents, its coat will be diluted, or lighter in color. Chocolate Labs will turn silver in appearance. Black Labs will become charcoal, chocolate Labs will turn silver, and yellow Labs will turn either champagne or what is known as polar white. Dilute breeding to produce non-traditional Labrador retriever coat colors has its controversies. The practice is particularly frustrating to the traditional Labrador retriever community that strictly adheres to AKC purebred standards. Wilson rehashes a story of the first documented silver Lab, which she says was supposedly born in Wisconsin in to a chocolate Lab female and a chocolate Lab male. But the breeder, who Wilson says she knew about through a friend, was having trouble with a Weimaraner on his property at the time. When the litter arrived, some of the pups were chocolate Labs and some were silver. Silver Labrador retrievers have become wildly popular across the country. They forwarded the information to the AKC, who dispatched a field inspector to determine the genetics of the pups. This was a tricky assignment in the era before modern DNA testing and microchips. The breeder presented a chocolate female as the dam and said the sire, which had been on loan as a stud, was back in the northern part of the state. Silver Labs can have the exact same personalities and capabilities as traditional-colored Labs. Courtesy of Peggy Stalnaker Stalnaker, who breeds dilute Labs at DuckCreek, doubts this version of the silver Lab origin story, given what she knows about dilute genetics. Her hunch is that a few true recessive dilute puppies were born by accident. Stalnaker points out that this book was published well before the first documented cases of dilute Labs in the United States. The charcoal Labrador retriever is darker than silver and comes from a black Lab with the dilute gene. When dilute Labs became popular, she explains, attempts to meet consumer demand resulted in some problematic inbreeding. This resulted in dilute Labs that were less genetically diverse and had higher chances of genetic health issues. But Stalnaker puts all her dogs through extensive genetic testing to determine any predispositions for these issues, which range from dwarfism to exercise-induced collapse syndrome to excessively dry noses. Their fur would be really thin. She has avoided this by breeding in non-diluted Labs that possess the dilute gene. This means some of her puppies are traditional colors and some are diluted. But the diluted Labs have less disorder-prone genetic codes thanks to the genetic diversity from the non-diluted sire and dam. Her customers have been happy with their DuckCreek Labs. She recalls one man who flew to Kansas from south Georgia to pick up a silver puppy and fly it home. She cites the time commitment as a barrier. Despite criticism from traditional Labrador loyalists like Wilson, some owners still register dilute Labs under traditional AKC colors. Choosing a certain color Lab is really a matter of personal preference. If anybody is nasty, I just block them. The new variety of Labrador retriever colors is probably here to stay, since the consumer demand is high. But the dilute Labs will probably remain on the outskirts of the Lab community for the foreseeable future, while the traditional Labrador retriever colors of black, chocolate, and yellow continue to win hearts and field trials alike. Katie Hill Katie Hill is a staff writer for Outdoor Life where she covers outdoor news, hunting, and conservation in the West. She still lives in Missoula. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Updated: Nov 15, When it comes to coat color of Labrador puppies, there are three colors recognized by the American Kennel Club. Black Labs, yellow Labs, and brown Labs often called chocolate Labs are the three main varieties of Labrador retriever, however these puppies often exhibit different shades of black, yellow, and brown fur. So with so much variation, what causes a difference in color? Where it begins to get tricky is when we discuss the genetics of black labs and chocolate labs when compared to yellow lab. Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene. When it comes to the coats of Labrador puppies, fur color is determined by one of two different genes, as well as a variety of alleles. When it comes to black lab puppies and chocolate lab puppies, both varieties inherit their fur color from a single gene, known as "Tyrosinase-related protein 1. Here we have two dominant genes for black fur, obviously resulting in a black lab puppy. In a situation in which either parent passes on the dominant allele and the other passes on the recessive, the lab puppy will still have a black coat. When both parents pass on the recessive allele, only then do we see a chocolate lab puppy. So, Where Does Yellow Come from? Yellow Labrador puppies get their hair color from a gene entirely different from the gene that determines black or brown fur. Melanocortin 1 receptor MC1R is the gene responsible for yellow lab puppies, but can still result in fur coats of black and brown. As you may have deduced, the allele for yellow lab puppies is recessive. Both parents pass on dominant alleles for black or chocolate fur, resulting in a black or chocolate puppy. Only in a situation in which both parents pass on alleles coding for yellow fur is the TYRP1 gene overridden and yellow lab puppies are produced. What is also interesting about the creation of yellow lab puppies is the fact that while their fur coat is without black or brown pigment, their skin will still exhibit the same color pigment as that of black or chocolate lab puppies. Visit the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory website Labrador retrievers have coats of three basic colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. These colors are determined genetically, just like almost all of the traits that offspring get from their parents. The modes of inheritance of these coat colors are autosomal not related to the sex of the dog. The information for black or chocolate comes from two versions of the same gene different versions of a gene are known as alleles. This gene is different from the one that causes yellow hair. There are four known alleles at this gene in the Labrador Retriever: one is the allele for black designated as B and three different alleles that result in chocolate collectively designated as b. In determining if your puppies will be black or chocolate, the black coat color B is dominant to the chocolate b. Therefore, a puppy will only be chocolate if each parent contributes a chocolate allele bb. If one or both parents Bb or BB contribute the black dominant allele, the puppy will be black BB or Bb , although a Bb puppy would carry chocolate and could therefore produce chocolate puppies. Black Labrador Retriever. Photo by Katy Robertson. Chocolate colored Labrador Retriever. There are several known alleles of this gene in dogs, but for Labradors the most common are E produce black and brown pigment and e only produce yellow pigment. An e allele at the MC1R gene prevents expression of the black or chocolate color in the hair follicle and the puppy's hair ends up yellow. Interestingly, the black or chocolate pigment is still expressed in the skin, just not in the hair. In order to be yellow, a Labrador must have two recessive alleles of the MC1R gene ee. This means both parents contributed a yellow allele e. However, if only one Ee or no EE yellow-causing alleles are contributed, this puppy will be either black or chocolate depending on which alleles are present at the TYRP1 gene see above. Yellow Labrador Retriever. Two yellow labs can only have yellow puppies ee , since they both only have the yellow allele e to contribute to their offspring. If they are bred to each other, there is a chance that some puppies will get a copy of e from each parent and have yellow hair Bbee, BBee, or bbee. If you are interested in breeding your Labrador and would like to know the genetic make up of your dog to predict the color of your puppies, genetic tests are available. The tests are easy, non-invasive, and simply require that you take a swab of the inside of your dog's cheek and send it to the laboratory. Primary Category. Their fun-loving and positive personalities combined with their gentleness and willingness to please their owners makes them the perfect family pet. Statistically speaking, Black Labs are the most common of all Labrador color variations. This is due to how coat color is inherited in this breed. Without getting too far into a scientific explanation for this, there are nine different possible gene combinations for coat color. Four of these lead to a black coat, three to yellow, and only two to chocolate. Due to random chance, Black Labs make up nearly half of all Labradors. Yellow Labs often have a very light brown or tan colored coat that can appear yellowish. Chocolate Labrador Image Credit: skeeze, Pixabay The rarest of the three major Labrador colors, the Chocolate Lab is beautiful and adorable with a deep brown, chocolate-colored coat. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most energetic and hardest to train, and while there is no research-based evidence to support this, Chocolate Labs are the only Labs not used as service dogs by the leading dog training organizations. This is possibly due to a higher energy level. Their absence from service dog institutions may also be due to the fact that Chocolate Labs experience more health problems and tend to have shorter lifespans than their Black and Yellow counterparts. On average, Chocolate Labs live about a year and a half shorter than other colored Labs. Simply put, they have the genetics of a Yellow Lab but present a darker coat that appears reddish. White Labs usually have very pale brown fur that can appear purely white, especially in the sun. Their fur normally has light brown or yellowish tinges around the ears and paws. Albino Labs do carry additional health problems such as deafness, blindness, and other eye issues. Austin, Shutterstock Silver Labs are stunning, regal, and sleek. Their light grey coat shines beautifully in the sun, and their appearance is as striking as it is adorable. These pups are similar to Red Labs in that they have the same genetics as one of the major three Lab colors. Silver Labs are really Chocolate Labs, even though they may look more like Blue Labs, but their coat is light or diluted, and the result is a silvery appearance. Like their chocolate siblings, Silver Labs, unfortunately, inherit some additional health issues and tend to live shorter lives than Black and Yellow Labradors. Defining Physical Characteristics What is it that makes this breed so recognizable? Labs are often stocky and athletic with a broad chest and a thick, wide skull. Labs have short, dense fur that is water-resistant. In fact, they were named after the Labrador Sea off of Newfoundland where they were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl. No matter where they go, Labs seem to bring joy and happiness with them. They are loyal, loving, and affectionate. What more could you ask for in a dog? Labs have short, dense fur that is prone to heavy shedding and matting, so you should plan to brush your Labrador at least two or three times a week to cut down on shedding and keep their fur looking sleek. Labradors of all coat colors should be bathed about once every other month with a dog-friendly shampoo. Bathing more often can eliminate those healthy skin oils we mentioned, so avoid giving your pup a bath more often unless they find their way into some mud. Final Thoughts Labs come in three main colors but can have lots of different coat shading that makes them appear unique and especially striking. See also:. Original Labrador Retriever Color Black is the original, archetypal Labrador color, and genetically the most dominant. Chocolate and yellow puppies were frequently euthanized at birth. To understand that we have to look at the genetic difference between black and chocolate Labs. Labrador Retriever Color Genetics Both types get their color from a pigment called eumelanin. Labs with lots of eumelanin pigment in their coat are black. If they have a little less, they appear brown instead. We use letters to tell each place apart — a bit like giving each locus its own zip code! The B locus is home to a pair of genes called B genes. There are two types of B gene your Lab can get in their pair: One we call big B — it contains an instruction to make lots of eumelanin, and causes a black Labrador coat. And one we call little b — it contains an instruction for less eumelanin, and causes a brown or chocolate coat. Big B is a dominant gene, and little b is a recessive gene. Dominant genes to switch off, or override, recessive genes. So dog with BB genes will be black, because he has two genes for a black coat. And a Bb dog will be black too, because the dominant B genethe recessive b gene. Only a dog with a matching pair of bb genes will express the instruction for less eumelanin in their coat, and be brown. Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog with two copies of the b gene will actually look brown. But the dominance of the black color enabled our chocolate friends to remain hidden and rare with the breed, for many decades. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. In fact, it would take two black Labs both carrying the little b gene to produce chocolate puppies. Like this: Statistically, one quarter of their litter would be chocolate colored. And of course, some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. These genes are located at the E locus. And — you guessed it — we call them E genes. Just like B genes there are two versions of the E gene, big E and little e. Big E is the dominant gene. It does not interfere with the B genes. Little e is the recessive gene. It has the potential to mask the B genes that would otherwise give us black or brown coats. And the result is a yellow dog. How Yellow Overrides Black and Chocolate Only the little e gene can mask the instructions for black or chocolate fur. There are three possible combinations of E gene that a dog can inherit. It could have two dominant genes EE two masking genes ee or one of each Ee. Only the middle of these three dogs will be yellow. Nine Different Possible Labrador Genotypes! Every Labrador has a combination of B and E genes — called their genotype. There are nine different possible genotypes. Here they are in full: Can you see why each combination of genes turns out the way it does? Because as you can see, the second dog down the list may look black but he could throw brown puppies, and the fourth dog down the list may look black, but he could throw yellow puppies. The fifth dog down the list is also black but he could throw yellow and brown puppies. Puppy colors are easier to predict when both parents owe their appearance to the recessive genes b or e. Mating Two Yellow Labradors Two yellow Labradors mated together will never throw brown or black puppies. All their offspring will be yellow. This is because yellow dogs do not possess the big E gene which is needed to switch off the masking effect. Mating Two Chocolate Labradors Two brown Labs mated together will never throw black puppies because brown dogs do not have the big B gene. But two chocolate Labs can produce yellow puppies, if each of the parents carries the little e gene — like this: In the mixed litter, statistically one of half of the puppies will be chocolate and one half yellow. Depending on their genotype, two black Labradors can indeed have yellow or chocolate puppies. Remember from our grid above that there are four different possible genotypes for a black Labrador. The genotype refers to the genetic code that the dog carries. And the four different possible black genotypes down the side to represent the father. Inside the grid are the puppies that could be born from each combination. If and only if, both parents carry a little e gene, then some of the puppies may be yellow. Remember that your puppy needs two little e genes one from each parent in order to be yellow. If only one of two black dogs carries the little e gene, all their puppies will be black. Yes it is, check out the bottom right hand square in the diagram above! Notice that it can only happen if both parents dogs have this genotype: EeBb. In other words, they both carry a little e and a little b. This is good example of how complicated, and unexpected, Labrador colors can be. There are six different possibilities for litter color combinations depending on the genotype of the parents. You can even get a litter of all black puppies from a chocolate mother and a yellow father or vice versa! Here are the color possibilities: yellow, black, and chocolate puppies yellow and black puppies. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Labrador Colors 1. Black Labrador Most black Labs are entirely black. But, some have one or two white spots on their fur. This interruption in their solid black coat is due to genetic traces left from their late ancestor, the St. The black Labrador Retriever was historically the most common coat color. Even today, nearly half of all Labs are black! When Retrievers were first bred, black coated dogs were the only pups deemed acceptable. Their popularity was driven by two reasons: Black is the favorite coat color for hunting. Four out of nine gene combinations result in a black coat. Sadly, until the 20th century, all other Lab colors would be euthanized shortly after birth. They were not valued the same way black Labradors were. Black Labradors were perfect for their original purpose, hunting. Their dark coat color helped them blend in and move stealthily while hunting or participating in field trials. These Labs tend to have the strongest hunting instincts as their black coats were historically bred for hunting. Even to this day, they are focused, diligent workers. These shiny, sleek dogs are not only beloved in the field, but they also make wonderful pets. Many owners regard black Labs as the calmest and most affectionate of all Lab colors. However, there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three major Lab colors. These dogs are rarely used for hunting or working, but are champions in the show ring! Their color stuns judges and earns high marks in conformation shows. The shade of brown that chocolate Labradors can come in varies. Some are a rich chocolate while others are a dark brown color known as liver. Some even have a beautiful red hue within their brown fur! The chocolate color exists on a spectrum and can vary greatly due to genetics. Some of these assumptions have become widely accepted in the Labrador community. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most rambunctious with a bit too much energy for their bodies! These pups are spunky and often hard to train, which may explain why they are not used as service dogs. Even if these Labs are a bit energetic and naughty at times, they are just as beloved due to their affectionate nature and goofy personality. The unfortunate truth about chocolate Labradors is that they often suffer from more health problems than other types of Labs. Some of these health concerns are minor and include hot spots skin irritation and ear inflammation. However, some are more serious and can shorten their lifespan. They often live a year and a half less than the other Labradors. Yellow Labrador Yellow Labradors may not be the most popular Labrador Retriever color, but they are the most beloved. Many owners claim that yellow Labs are the friendliest and most outgoing. Their outstanding reputation is reinforced by their heavy presence in daily life! Yellow Labs are often seen in movies such as the adorable Lab who played Marley in Marley and Me or the sweetheart who acted as Old Yeller. The media have also boosted their popularity as has their recognition as common service, search and rescue, and therapy dogs. Similar to chocolate, the yellow coat color exists on a spectrum. Some yellow Labs are a light brown or tan, others are yellow like a lemon, and then there are cream-colored Labs. There are also fawn Labradors. Fawn Labs are darker, but are not quite red. The yellow Lab may be the Labrador Retriever with the most variation in its coat color! Yellow Labs are just as hard-working as black Labs, although they are not as commonly used for hunting. They are very similar to black Labs and are just as highly trainable, affectionate, and hard-working. Silver Labrador Silver Labradors are by far the rarest of all colors. These dogs are a light gray to blue color that looks silver in the sunlight. These Labradors are often mistaken for Weimaraner mixes because of their silver coat. Silver Labs actually have the same genetics as any type of Lab, despite looking very different. They are just as smart, fun, and loving as any other Retriever. They have a dilute gene that overrides the designated chocolate coat color. Rather than being chocolate, these dogs have a silver or blue coat color. This same coat color dilution can occur in yellow Labs and in black Labs. Diluted yellow Labs are known as champagne and diluted black Labs are known as charcoal. However, Silver is the most unique. Not many silver Labs exist due to the recessive nature of the dilute gene. Silver Labs are undoubtedly stunning, but they have a higher potential of developing health issues. They often develop color dilution alopecia which presents as itchy skin or patchy fur. Fox Red Labradors have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, but just have a deep yellow or brown hue to their coat. This deep brown looks rusty red and makes them look just like a fox. Labrador Retriever fans adore fox red Labs because of their friendly personalities. They have lovingly nicknamed these dogs Ruby Labradors. Clifford, the beloved big red dog, is even based off a fox red Labrador. The red color gives them a rugged look that many owners love! However, this love does not extend to the American Kennel Club. The American Kennel Club does not recognize fox reds as a unique color and registers these Labrador Retrievers as yellow labs. Judges often view this dark pigmentation as a serious fault, so it is unlikely that a fox red Lab would ever win a conformation show. Some people are highly suspicious of the fox red color. They often argue that fox reds are not purebred and that they are mixed with Golden Retrievers. This is not true. It is all the beauty of a Golden Retriever without the high maintenance and long coat that Goldens are known for. White Labrador White Labradors are just a variation of the yellow Lab. They have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, they just happen to be much paler. White Labs are the lightest shade of yellow possible. This color exists on the opposite end of the spectrum than fox red Labs do. The shade of their fur is typically a pale yellow that looks white in the sunlight. They may also have brown or yellow ears and paws that are darker than the rest of their coat. Their white fur gives them an aura of royalty. Just like any yellow Labrador, white Labs are regarded as kind dogs who love everyone they meet. They make horrible guard dogs as they make friends with everyone and are quick to trust every stranger they meet! They are often pampered and spoiled beyond belief. There are no known health issues associated with this color. Most white labs are healthy because they are just a pale yellow, not true white. Albino Labradors are rarer and also sensitive to bright sunlight. Merle labs may suffer from deafness, blindness, and shortened lifespans. Discussing Labrador Retriever colors can be controversial. Are silver and red Labs purebred? Do personality traits differ between different colored Labs? Should silver, red, and white have their own color category? The answers to these questions are not simple. They say that behavior is determined by genetics, socialization, training, and health. In their opinion coat color is just cosmetic. On the other hand, there are owners and breeders who argue that coat color affects the personality of a Lab. These owners and breeders have lived and interacted with Labs of all colors. In their opinion coat color is linked to characteristic personality traits. These Lab lovers have agreed that: Black Labs are the calmest and most skilled at hunting. Yellow Labs are the friendliest and best with people and children. Chocolate Labs are the rowdiest, most energetic, and difficult to train. On the side of science, color does not affect the behavior of a Labrador Retriever. However, breeders and owners have recorded the behavior traits associated with each coat color. It is up to you whether to decide if color matters for Labrador Retrievers or not! Which Is The Rarest Color? Silver is the rarest Lab color. Silver is rare because it can only come from a unique genetic makeup. The dilution gene needed to produce this silver hue is a recessive gene and is often masked by the genes for a chocolate coat. If you ever happen to see one of these silver beauties, take the time to really admire them as you may never see another one again! Which Color Is The Best? This is definitely an opinion question that has no right answer! Each color of Labrador suits a specific type of owner: Athletic, hunting owners will want a black Lab. Yellow Lab owners claim that their dogs are the best due to their friendly personalities. Chocolate Labs win the most prizes in conformation shows. Silver Labs are the rarest, to complicate the argument even more. It is up to each owner to decide which color they love the best. An argument can be made for each Labrador color as to why that color is the best. Among Labrador owners it is widely accepted that black Labs are the calmest. This could be a result of their hard-working, hunting instincts which cause them to be much more focused and level-headed. Chocolate Labs who parade around show rings are often the most rambunctious. If you ask the experts, you will get the answer that coat color has no effect on Labrador behavior. However, if you read various Labrador Retriever websites and forums, or talk to Lab owners, you may hear a different story. Whether you decide to believe this claim is up to you! There is no scientific evidence to back the claim up that black Labs are the calmest Labradors. Summary Each color of Labrador Retriever is beautiful and unique in its own way. Silver Labs are rare, black Labs are sleek and elegant, yellow Labs have an aura of kindness, white Labs are elegant, red Labs are devoted to their work, and chocolate Labs are gorgeous and show ready! Labrador coat colors are the perfect example that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. Want to learn more about Labs? Read: English vs. American Labrador: Top 10 Differences. Which coat color is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments below! She is a passionate dog lover and was raised with an affectionate, calm Yellow Lab Golden Retriever mix that fostered her love for her canine companions. Kelsie is actively involved with multiple humane societies and has cared for the dogs of over 45 different families. You May Also Like.

Page 8 Hurley the Boxer puppy at 4 months old; Hurley looks a lot like Bruno. On one of the first warm days of the spring season Bruno the Boxer enjoys sitting outside in the sun. Later Bruno decides it's time to also warm up his underside. His father is a very tall, confident male and his mother is a very gentle and attentive female. Ramsey is very attached to his family and whines at the window when my husband goes to work or when my daughter gets on the school bus. He is also very gentle to my year-old daughter. He often falls asleep with the children on the rug in the family room. He needs to be out! He loves to play fetch and leaps over fallen trees in the woods. He walks 3x a week and plays with the kids or ball for the remaining week days. Ramsey loves people and children. He becomes excited when extended family members visit and sits in their lap so that they won't leave. We love him very much. 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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Imagine you knew how to discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way so that your bond with your dog grew instead of fell short! Learn how to communicate with your pup and get the behaviors you want using these simple and easy methods for training a German Shepherd puppy. They may become frightened of you or fear your presence, depending on how severe your discipline is. Anxiety may even develop with too much punishment or useless corrections. Training a German Shepherd puppy at 8 to 12 weeks old? Yes, you can! A GSD pup of 8 to 12 weeks of age or older still needs positive reinforcement for the best behavior changes. Disciplining your GSD should not involve hitting, kicking, slapping, intimidation, or yelling. Do you want your German Shepherd puppy to stop their unwanted, bad behavior and turn into the sweet angel you want them to be? You can easily learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy if you work smarter… Not harder! Start early and remain consistent with your expectations. Training a German Shepherd means knowing what to do when your puppy acts up. Shepherd pups are one of the smartest dogs on the plant and learn quickly what you expect of them. But the best way to learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy at home is to work on your own behavior first. You should show them what behavior is unacceptable in your house. This means that you must stay consistent when responding to their behavior. For example: If your pup jumps on you and you redirect their attention to a toy to chew on instead. But, then your pup jumps on your friend and your friend lets them and you say nothing. This makes it likely that your dog will jump on whoever they feel like in the future. Use reward-based training. Use reward-based German Shepherd training techniques to get the quickest results. Reward-based training helps your puppy recognize when something is a bad choice source. When your pup performs what you ask, offer a tasty treat and words of praise. For example: Have your pup sit when you are by the front door getting ready to go for a walk. This teaches them that when they behave, they are more likely to get what they want. The best way to train your German Shepherd is by following a fun, engaging program that teaches not only the basics but covers problem behaviors, too. Sound difficult? It teaches you how to get your pup to learn positive behaviors. You can also have fun right at home with these games for German Shepherd puppies. Offer your puppy another option when they begin jumping on you for attention. Think about what your puppy is trying to get when engaging in jumping and bad behavior to determine when to ignore them. When your pup jumps on you when you come home, they probably want your attention. Withholding your attention when they are acting out shows them they need to act differently to get your approval source. Instead, offer them pets and praise when they have all 4 paws on the floor. You can also place them behind a puppy gate until they learn not to jump in order to avoid them scratching or nipping house guests when they arrive. After you teach them their basic obedience, ask them for a competing behavior like a sit or down when they begin to jump. Always remember to reward the behavior you want to see again! Ultimately, your puppy learns that good behavior earns your affection and attention more quickly. Your dog soon understands that they get nothing from you when they act badly. Here are some great commands for a German Shepherd that you can work on training. Redirect bad German Shepherd puppy behavior. Does your puppy jump, nip, chew, bite, or dig and you want to know the right discipline? The noise and disapproving tone distract your dog from bad behavior source. Showing them a favorite toy. Offering them another option you would like that is more constructive. You want to remember to watch out for: If your dog chews inappropriately on a pair of expensive shoes, get their attention by making noises or calling them to you and immediately offer the correct approved chew item. If you know your dog tends to bite you during play, have a toy nearby you can show them that you want them to bite instead of your arms. If you know they get wild and crazy in the evenings, have a list of these easy German Shepherd brain games to distract them and funnel their energy. Use time-outs appropriately when training a German Shepherd puppy. When your dog engages in bad behavior, remove them from what is causing the unwanted behavior. Put them in a different environment that is more calming and quiet instead. Respond immediately to the bad behavior and use the same routine every time to maintain correct discipline. Time out should: Not be done with force or yelling. Not be in a closet or other dark, scary area. Work to calm your puppy down, not frighten or stress them. Give your puppy a break from over-excitement. Not be a long punishment. Timeouts are generally recommended for only 1 to 2 minutes for puppies. Also, remember that closed doors can cause anxiety in dogs, so use a reliable pet-safe baby gate so that your puppy knows that you are still nearby. Remember, when training a German Shepherd puppy: Time out should not last over minutes. Watch for when your puppy is calm and quiet for a very brief period seconds long of calm. Then let them out quietly, without scolding them. This can cause anxiety. Remember to use a pet gate to separate them from the excitement that caused the unwanted behavior, while still allowing them to see you and not feel trapped. Ignore the unnecessary barking. German Shepherd puppies bark, but there are positive ways to help train them to bark and whine less. When they finally quiet down, even if only for a few seconds, reward them with a treat or praise. To have success, wait until they are quiet and stop barking, even if only for a few seconds in the beginning source. For example: If your puppy barks at joggers out the window every morning pull the blinds or curtains. If the behavior continues, place your dog in another room for a couple of minutes and repeat the previous time-out procedure every time they bark at the joggers remember to use the pet safe baby gate and to not shut a puppy behind a solid door because it can give them anxiety. If they are whining and crying at night, this could be a warning they need to potty. Make sure you read this post to know how to potty train a German Shepherd before you ignore all whining, barking, and crying. If your puppy barks during play they might be too excited and you can offer them a chew toy instead or cut your playtime short to allow them to calm down. Puppies bark for a number of reasons. But it does get easier to train your GSD over time as they learn what you expect. Keeping your pup from nipping and chewing. Puppies have sharp teeth, especially German Shepherd puppies! Puppies are energetic and must learn their limits for playing too rough source. Puppies view you jerking your hand back quickly as part of a game and could also tear your skin. And physical punishment should never be given! Show them what they can chew, instead, such as their favorite chew toy. Have plenty of safe chew toys to grab nearby to give your pup when they get wild and decide to bite you. Always use toys that your puppy can chew and bite to play with — pick from this list of German Shepherd Chew Toys to Prevent Boredom so you have a safe puppy toy that can take their bites. When they stop biting or nipping reward them with verbal praise and pets. Return later to try playing with your pup again and repeat the procedure. Read this information for more helpful tips to stop your German Shepherd puppy from aggressively biting and nipping you. Catch your dog being good and reward them out of the blue. See your puppy acting the way you want? Reward them out of the blue! Keep small bits of treats in jars around the house out of reach of your pup or in your pocket or a treat bag on your waist and use any opportunity your catch your pup doing good to reward them. If they sit and wait at the door, instead of dashing out ahead of you, reward them! Aim for one of these healthy treats that are the best for German Shepherds and pick carefully to ensure your dog stays athletic and fit. Food-based rewards are very motivating when training and disciplining a puppy. Avoid physical punishment and harm. Your German Shepherd is your companion for life. Research shows that physically punishing your dog for example hitting, kicking, growling, or staring them down increases aggression in your dog study source. Never use physical punishment to correct undesirable behavior. Not only can this punishment injure your puppy, but it also ruins your relationship and causes anxiety. It means setting expectations that they understand and staying consistent. Physically hurting your German shepherd will ruin your relationship with them. They will lose their trust in you and begin to avoid you. In the worst case, your dog could develop anxiety disorders, health issues, or even more problem behaviors. You could even accidentally injure your dog and they need vet care! Use the right tone and body language to communicate. Different commands and body language conveys information for training to your German Shepherd. The different tones of your voice and body movements are better understood by your dog. The actual command words are of less importance to your puppy. Use a direct tone and body language that matches what you want to say to your dog. Even pointing to a missed treat on the ground is body language your dog learns to understand. Still not convinced? Try out your training with this extensive list of helpful German Shepherd commands and watch how much your dog is capable of understanding. Shepherd pups want to please and have order in their home. To do this, stick with your training. Begin with a plan in place and disciplining your GSD will go smoother from the start. Persevere with your training and discipline. Remember that your German Shepherd is highly intelligent and needs your help to get the best from them. If you feel like giving up, take a break from training for a day or two. In order to avoid training frustration, remember that just like you a German Shepherd needs time to learn the rules of the house and new commands. This is true especially of puppies or rescue dogs. If you want to take a break from training and have fun, then include a few days a week of puzzles. German Shepherds are one of the smartest dogs in the world, so training them generally takes a short time. Never discipline a German Shepherd puppy for having accidents during potty training. Whether your German Shepherd is potty trained or not, never push their faces into their potty accidents. Your dog is counting on your leadership to show them the rules in a positive manner. Work on setting a consistent schedule with feeding and walks to avoid potty accidents indoors. German Shepherds are easy to train given the right attention. And they need to understand their schedule by having you teach them using consistent patterns, rather than receiving punishment or discipline. Keep a potty schedule posted nearby so all your family can see it and help prevent your puppy from having an accident. Use your bond with your puppy to your advantage during recall training. Use your positive bond with your German Shepherd puppy to work on early recall training. Especially when there are so many natural pleasures to see and explore outside. When you call your German Shepherd, its obedience simply depends on whether the motivation to obey your commands outweighs what your dog is focused on at the moment. Use this to your advantage! Tips for great German Shepherd puppy recall training: Begin calling your puppy in as many locations inside as you can. Give them a tasty reward or play a game with their favorite toy when they come. Work your way up to a perfect recall by having others try to distract your puppy while indoors. Next, move to your back or front yard with your dog on a long leash like this so they stay safe nearby and do the same. You can disciple them by showing them your tasty treat and walking backward a few steps to encourage them to move toward you. Train the come command in all situations, including the home and outdoors, from the time your puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old to avoid discipline problems later on. Need to train your German Shepherd on their recall? Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in. How to train your German Shepherd Dog — 5 key steps Niki Dog health and wellness Puppy training December 29, The OneMind Dogs method is built on the idea that close bonds start with owners understanding their dogs. Building a magical connection with your German Shepherd takes empathy, patience, and a keen eye for the non-verbal cues dogs communicate with. Naturally, this applies to training all dogs, especially those highly intelligent breeds that need plenty of stimulation. Two German Shepherds can be equally fast learners but have different learning styles. One may prefer to think through a task while the other prefers jumping in head first. Setting the dog up for success in training So, what does it mean to set up for success? When you train matters as much as how you train. Choose a time of day when your dog is likely to be motivated, focused, and eager. A motivated puppy will pay more attention and have an easier time following cues. Training just before mealtime is great because then mealtime becomes a reward. Rewards also encourage dogs to focus and listen. Try lots of different toys — hard, soft, noisy, bouncy, crinkly etc. Make the family part of the fun and DIY safe puppy toys at home! If rewards are how you finish strong, routine is what gives you momentum going into training. When sessions start at the same time every day, dogs know what to expect, and when. Likewise, late afternoon sessions can help energetic puppies wind down for the evening and sleep soundly. Knowing what they value tells us what motivates them. We can use this to communicate things more intuitively. This also applies when trying to teach your dog new commands. This means we need to help them connect the verbal command to the act of putting their bum on the floor. Being flexible will keep you from getting frustrated and your puppy from feeling overwhelmed. How we respond has a huge impact on the success of any training session. We focus on positive reinforcement because it rewards a job well done, and uses healthy alternatives to replace bad manners. Plus dogs respond much better, learn faster and trust you more in the long run! Teaching your German Shepherd to chill out alone Boundaries are the key to a happy home for every family, and the same is true when bringing a new pet into yours. Spacial boundaries range from having a safe nook where they chill out to staying calm when visitors come over. Giving your dog a safe space to chill alone will help them get used to their own company. Running an obstacle course and other physical exercises teaches dogs to use their bodies, improves balance, and supports their growth. Mental stimulation, on the other hand, improves their focus, regulates emotions, and strengthens the magical bond they share with you. Training that engages their minds as much as their bodies will lead to better results. It helps your dog stay on task, even in a disruptive environment. Using their brains to solve problems builds confidence by engaging all the tools they need in everyday life. Success here is about pairing fitness and focus. OneMind Dogs Foundation for Agility has some great tips to keep daily walks fun , exciting, and mentally stimulating. You can even hide the DIY puppy toys as part of a game to get their noses working.