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Thank you! If you are looking to add to your fur family, consider adopting a dog. You will save the life of that dog and allow another to come into the shelter to be saved. Golden retrievers are well-mannered, loyal companions that love to play. They love meeting new people, and their enthusiasm is contagious. Goldens make great family dogs and hiking partners. Check out all 25 golden retrievers looking for their forever homes and share with a friend. Bruce Wayne Bruce is a 7-year-old sweetheart who is looking for a forever home. He loves to go for car rides and is completely housebroken. This perfect gentleman knows basic commands and just wants a loving home where he can cuddle next to his family at night. The rescue said his transition into a new home would be easier if he was the only dog but he is learning that other dogs mean him no harm. Bruce loves everyone he meets but will bark to alert his family someone is there. If this faithful pup sounds like the perfect match for you, you can find out more by clicking here. The playful girl will need a home with a fenced in yard to play fetch and run around. Does Layla sound like the perfect dog for you? Adopt her. He has the biggest heart and just wants to find a family who will love him the way he is. He gets around just fine thanks to a custom wheelchair. If you are ready to experience unconditional love — adopt him! The six-year-old loves attention and looking at herself in the mirror. She would do best in a home with another dog as she is unsure of loud noises and new things. A patient family with a fenced in yard would be perfect for Peaches. They arrived with three other siblings but these two would love to find a home together. They are incredibly smart, eager to learn, and ready for a forever home. If you are able to open your heart and home to two adorable puppies click here. The seven-year-old gentle giant loves children and people. He does not do well with other male dogs but could live in a home with a female dog. If this handsome boy caught your eye, you can adopt him here. While he still has bursts of energy, he prefers attention over play and has not shown any interest in playing fetch. Adopt him here. He can be a bit bossy so a home with older children or no children would be best. Rocko is too interested in cats to live with them but can live with another dog, after a meet-and-greet. Looking for an adventure buddy? Marley Mae is your girl and she loves car rides. Daily walks will be required but fresh air and exercise is good for everyone. Oliver is a love bug and just wants a family of his own. If you are willing to spoil him with attention and cuddles, apply to adopt him here. Boyd is currently in Texas looking for a loving forever home. Adopt him! The gorgeous pup will shed and is still learning to walk on a leash. He needs a family who will teach him basic commands and house train him. If you are ready for a lifetime of fun and learning, apply to adopt Asher here. Missy is a friendly gal rescue estimates she is 18! She prefers a home without children. Let her show you how to enjoy the little things in life, like a relaxing care ride. If she is the dog you have been looking for, adopt her here. Colin is 7 years young and a total sweetheart. He enjoys walks and meeting new people but also loves cuddling. The affectionate boy does have separation anxiety so he would do best with a homebody. She is 5-years-old and gets along well with other dogs. This loving girl is looking for a forever home. Adopt her! He needs a family that will take the time to teach him how to be a good boy. He is a year-old boy who loves other dogs, cats, and children. He is looking to enjoy his golden years with a loving family. Bring him home! He is missing hair due to a skin infection that is being treated by a vet. This good boy is ready for his forever home. She just wants a family of her own to go on walks and cuddle with. Anyone ready to give her a life of luxury and love her unconditionally can adopt her here. The young boy loves to play with a ball and will do so for hours. He loves people and would do best with a family that prefers to stay in or take him along on adventures. He loves treats and is a quick learner. An active family would be the best fit for Samson as he needs to go on a couple mile walk every day. He gets along well with other dogs and just wants a home of his own. Does he sound like the perfect dog for you? He loves going for walks and to the beach. As soon as he sees his leash his tail starts to wag. While he is always up for adventure, the big fella also loves to relax and cuddle. If you are looking for a best friend who will never leave your side, then look no further. Adopt Harlow here! The golden mix boy is inquisitive and energetic. He needs a patient family who will teach him how to be a good boy and watch him grow into his huge paws. She walks well on a leash and is as sweet as can be. She enjoys playing with other dogs but can be a bit bossy. The sweet dog is looking for a calm and quiet home to enjoy his golden years. He enjoys cuddling and going for short walks. FAQ about golden retrievers and how to start the process of adoption. What is the lifespan of a golden retriever? Golden retrievers are active dogs with a life span of years. How much exercise does a golden retriever need? The breed is part of the sporting group and was originally bred to retrieve ducks and fowls for hunters. They need daily exercise consisting of a walk, a game of fetch, or a trip to the beach. Ideally, they should have 60 minutes of intense exercise a day and a great way to achieve that is through hiking. How to adopt a golden retriever? If you think a golden retriever is the right dog for you, contact your local shelter. Be sure that your lifestyle is a fit for a golden and consider adopting an older dog. No matter what type of companion you are looking for, you can find a perfect fit in a rescue pet. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Texas Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Texas? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Texas? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. History Where are Golden Retrievers from? One of the best documented and most fortuitous efforts to produce a breed resulted in the Golden Retriever. The man responsible for the breed was Lord Tweedmouth, who lived just north of the Scottish border along the Tweed River. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Goldens can reach a weight of 55 — 75 lbs, and a height between .A Golden Retriever has a dense, straight or wavy outer water-repellent coat, which sheds heavily twice annually and lightly throughout the year. Groom a Golden Retriever weekly to maintain the double coat and control shedding. What are the Golden Retriever colors? The breed was first considered to be a yellow variety of Flat-Coated Retrievers but was recognized as a separate breed, the Yellow or Golden Retriever, in .What makes the Golden Retriever dog so popular? The breed was valued for the hunting abilities so ably produced by the careful blending of foundation stock, and only later became popular as a pet. How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of 10—13 years. What are some Golden Retriever facts and information? Facts Golden Retrievers are best known to: Push through heavy vegetation. We are a c 3 nonprofit relying on donations , supporters , fundraising, and event and retail proceeds for funding to provide top-quality care to all DVGRR dogs. Learn more about our Golden Gateway campus and watch our campus tour video. Watch our video to take a quick tour. Click to learn more. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array of adoptive and educational support for the adopters and broader community. If you are interested in adopting, please attend one of our Monthly Open House: Meet the Dogs, Tour, and Shop events, held every second Saturday of the month from 10am until 12pm. Plus, we always need event sponsors. Learn more, click here! All dogs must remain on lead during the event; no flexis. We ask that each dog be handled by one human. Click here for all the details! Details are coming! Help us cover the costs of renovations! Click here for details! Kennel Caregivers — Dedicated, responsible, hard-working, compassionate individuals. Must be 17 years or older. Click here to learn more and apply.

At what age is a Poodle fully grown? Poodles are considered fully grown adults at two years old and tend to show emotional signs of maturity, like a calmer nature, around 18 months. At a year old, most Poodles will have reached their final height or very close to it. However, most Poodles will require a full two years to fill out their chest and reach their final weight. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Poodle be? A six-month-old male Poodle will weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a six-month-old female Poodle will weigh about 28 to 34 pounds. Both male and female Poodles at this age stand at around 18 to 22 inches tall, which for some Poodles is already their full adult height. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on pet first aid kits, puppy-proofing practices, training, veterinary appointments, and more! How much bigger will my Poodle get? There are a few ways to assess how much bigger your Poodle will get. The first is age. If your Poodle is less than a year old, they still have significant growth left! If your Poodle is between one and two years old, they are likely still filling out a bit, but are probably at their adult height. Do they still look oversized next to their legs and body? If this is the case, they are probably still filling out as this is a classic puppy feature! A Poodle puppy will rarely grow larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Poodle? According to the American Kennel Club Official Poodle Standards , an adult male Poodle is 60 to 70 pounds while an adult female Poodle weighs between 40 and 50 pounds. By these standards, full-grown Poodles will be over 15 inches tall when measuring from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders while standing. Most Standard Poodles will stand between 18 and 24 inches tall. Smart lifestyle choices are essential in keeping your Poodle happy and healthy. The Veterinary Centers of America recommend a long walk, jog, or intense play to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Poodles were bred as retrievers and, as such, are keen on games involving retrieving like fetch. Many Poodles also enjoy swimming. Due to their full coats, Poodles can put on excess weight without their pet parents realizing it. Poodles are not overly prone to weight issues with a balanced diet, but their coat can disguise weight changes. Their full coats also require regular upkeep like brushing and combing every other day, professional grooming every six weeks or so, and watching for potential eye problems. Poodles are prone to weeping eyes and eye irritation from lashes or hair, so keeping their eye area free of long hair is ideal. As a purebred dog breed, Poodles are more susceptible to genetic health problems. Many of these genetic health problems can be screened for early on using DNA technology. These early screenings can help you and your veterinarian prevent and minimize health complications from these genetic diseases. A bove all else, regular veterinary care is the best way to make sure your Poodle stays healthy. Between health screenings, regular veterinary care, bloodwork, x-rays , dental cleanings , and more, your veterinarian is your best resource in caring for your precious Poodle puppy. Be aware, vet visits can quickly become expensive - especially when immediate treatment or surgery is needed for an emergency or illness. With many treatments and surgeries costing thousands of dollars, this can quickly put pet parents in a pinch should the worst happen to their pet. Poodles are larger dogs, which can also increase the price of treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket veterinary costs and provides a safety net should the worst happen to your Poodle. As purebred dogs, Poodles are more prone to genetic health problems, like bloat or hip dysplasia, which can quickly become expensive to treat. Final Considerations Poodle puppies grow into elegant, proud dogs who are true aristocrats of the dog kingdom. We know how much your Poodle pup means to you and that they deserve the best! Give yourself peace of mind today when you use Pawlicy Advisor to compare personalized pet insurance quotes from the top Poodle pet insurance companies. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Their body temperature at birth is around 94 — 97 degrees. They are not able to regulate their own body temperature so they depend on their mother for warmth. They also cannot see or hear or eliminate on their own. They cannot walk. About all they can do is smell, suckle and crawl. They are totally dependent on their mother and the environment the first 2 to 3 weeks. They are mostly influenced by their mother and litter-mates during this period. We weigh the puppies everyday the first 2 to 3 weeks. Week Two: Poodle Puppies usually open their eyes around 8 to 10 days and their ears around 13 to 17 days. While sleeping all healthy and contented puppies will twitch. This is an activated sleep, characterized by muscle twitches. This is normal and healthy. Week Three: During the third week we will often see teeth start to erupt and the puppies will start to stand and walk around. Everyday is amazing to see these helpless puppies start to become independent. At this age their nervous system is more developed so that they can urinate and defecate by themselves. This is when the puppies will also start to play a little bit more with their litter-mates. This week is very important in the puppies emotional development. They will start not only the interaction with their litter-mates but also with their mother. We never start the weaning process during this week. While mother may come out of the whelping box during this week she will never be far. Week Four: At this age the puppies will be introduced to our own homemade puppy mush and their supplement which will help grow their immune systems. Puppies are born without an immune system and depends on their mother to supply this protection through her milk. Their body temperature will usually be around degree and they will be able to begin regulating their own body temperature. Every day they will eat more and more. The puppies will start to eat more food and move around more easily. They may even start to chase each other, bark, and bite. We still weigh them at least every other day if not every day. This is the time that the mother starts leaving the puppies at longer intervals of time and start to regulate their nursing. So this is a good time for us to introduce the puppies to the weaning box and start the weaning and potty box training. Week Five: Puppies start to establish some sort of dominance in the pack. Growth and development is rapid in this week. They become very aware of their surroundings and respond quickly to training. They begin to growl, play, challenge, and learn disciple from their mother. They also develop a bit of a competitive spirit. Training ability is developed and puppies are ready to begin learning. They also start to discover their toys and play with them more. Keeping them stimulated is important. Puppies can start to control their need to potty and now know they need to move away from the sleeping area. Good experience with people from week 5 — 7 will play a large roll in how they will continue to interact. Week Six: By this time it is amazing to see that little puppy wake up and walk over to the potty box to eliminate. Puppies enter their socialization period by the end of the third week. However, the most critical period — age six to eight weeks — is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as part of their family pack. The integrating of the human family is so important and will effect them for the rest of their life. The puppy brain waves look of an adult dog by about the 50th day, but he is not yet programmed — that is the job of the human trainer, and the job of his mom, siblings and other canine family members. This is when the fun begins for all humans and puppies. We know how important this time is for puppy to adjust to humans and how playtime stimulates their little brains to grow smart and wise. We introduce them to the outside. We bring in more interactive toys. We introduce them to the pool, weather permitting. If outside pool is out we use the grooming bath for water play. They also learn not to bite the human hand ever! It is at the 7th week, day 49, that we conduct the Volhard Test. This is actual one of several that will occur through its life. Instead of meeting new or familiar people and objects with curiosity puppies start to react with fearfulness. Anything that frightens them at this age may have a lasting impact. So take care that the baby is not overstimulated with to many changes or challenges at one time. This does not mean that your puppy will grow up to be a scared-y-cat; it is simply a normal part of development where puppies learn to be more cautious. Careful socialization during this period helps counter fear reactions. Because your puppy is actively working on social skills and is paying attention to both litter-mates and humans. Your puppy is learning at an extremely fast rate. This is why we will NOT hold any puppy beyond the 9th weeks. All puppies that cannot be picked up during puppy pickup week must enter their puppy into a training program. Weeks Thirteen — Sixteen: During this phase a puppy will attempt to challenge you for dominance. Here is where they test to see just how much they can get away with and test your level of tolerance. The more a puppy is allowed to get way with during this phase, may cause the dog to lose more and more respect for his owner. This may result in behavioral issues that can snowball if not corrected through training and obedience. Formal obedience should begin here. This will assist the dog in becoming the best he can be. This is the time your puppy will begin to understand and use ranking in terms of submission and dominance. Are you the owner going to be a good pack leader? Puppies will need to be taught what they can and cannot chew. Puppies need to be taught that it is never acceptable behavior to jump on a human, small or big. This is the time that the pack leader, the human in charge, especially needs to be confident, but firm with positive reinforcement. An obedient dog, a good canine citizen, is a pleasure to be with. A disobedient dog causes stress for all and can cause damage to things and other humans. What do I mean by that? The canine depends on a human, however, he is and his thinking is canine. He needs the human to communicate and set the standards for him. If the human does not then the dog will have no choice but set his own standards, doggy style. Be prepared to be a Good, very good, pack leader! Your puppy now understands that he has a pack which may consist of both humans and canine and his behavior will be most influenced by this group. You can expect your dog to challenge you more as he explores dominance and his role in the pack. Rather they are just working out what their rank is in the pack and what is expected of them in their position. Again: be a Good, very good, pack leader! Canines that are not spayed or neutered will also start exhibiting sexual behavior during this period. Be responsible and spay or neuter you canine. Some puppy owners hire a canine trainer to come to their home to teach them how to train. Some owners learn ahead of time what they need to do and immediately begin their puppy on this program. Still others have their puppy enter into our training program. We have much information on the website about training. And for our puppy buyer we are here whenever they need any coaching along the way. Be Consistent, Persistent and always have a Routine! In France, people are as likely to be carrying a poodle under their arm as a stick of French bread. Poodles can be seen eating in restaurants, visiting hairdressers and going virtually anywhere that their owner goes. In Ireland, poodles are a rare enough breed, and it can be difficult to find the right type of poodle puppy when you want one. The Poodle breed is available in three sizes. Each size of poodles is available in a range of colours, including blue, grey, silver, brown, cafe-au-lait, apricot and cream. They almost sound like scrumptious varieties of chocolate. The local family knew exactly what sort of dog they wanted: a female brown Miniature Poodle. They were unable to locate a puppy of this type in Ireland, but eventually they tracked one down near Manchester, in England. The puppy sounded perfect, but the only problem was how to bring her home. They decided that the only realistic option was to drive over to Manchester to pick up the puppy directly. They bought a large wire cage that could fold flat, but when erected, fitted snugly into the rear of her estate car. They bought a plastic bed, and soft bedding and they even purchased special non-spill water and food bowls for the puppy to eat and drink in transit. But they were still worried. The puppy would never have been away from its mother and its home environment. How would it cope with a ten hour journey in a car? It would be a highly stressful time for the poor creature. They came to me to ask for advice before they left. What else could they do? Would sedatives help? I explained that sedatives are not always the best answer. To travel in comfort, animals need to have their wits about them. They need to be able to react if there is a sudden jerky movement of the vehicle, such the car braking. Many vets now recommend that sedation should be avoided during journeys, unless an animal becomes hysterically upset. I suggested an alternative answer: a product known as Dog Appeasement Pheromone, sold as Adaptil. This is a man-made scent, which is completely odourless to humans, but which carries a strong message for animals. This is produced by lactating females from their mammary gland area, when they are being suckled by their young. The natural function of this scent is to comfort the offspring. The pheromones calm puppies at the earliest stage of their lives. It seems to provide reassurance at times of stress, particularly in unknown environments and when encountering novel experiences. Adaptil is available in a formulation similar to human perfume, in a ceramic jar with a spray top. Owners are encouraged to spray the pheromone around the dog in any environment that may be stressful to the animal. The puppy owners-to-be took a bottle of Adaptil, and headed off to Manchester. The puppy, soon christened Coco, seemed calm and quiet, but they still worried about how he would be in the car. They sprayed the Adaptil everywhere inside the car: in the basket, on the bedding, around the cage, and even on the car upholstery. They then put Coco in his basket, with a small chew toy. Little Coco looked small and wide-eyed as they drove away from the only world the puppy had ever known. But she soon settled down in her bed, enjoying her chew-toy, and then quietly falling asleep. They stopped several times to allow her out for a walk during the journey, and each time, she happily jumped back into her basket. She did not seem stressed at all. Coco has continued to sleep in her basket inside the wire cage — she now sees it as her own territory, and it is kept in the utility room in the family home. Two weeks on, Coco seems as well balanced a puppy as any. The journey from Manchester caused no problems at all. Was it due to the Adaptil or would she have been OK anyway?

About the German Shepherd The German Shepherd is a breed of medium to large-sized working dog that originated in Germany. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds are working dogs developed originally for herding sheep. Since that time, however, because of their strength, intelligence, trainability and obedience, German Shepherds around the world are often the preferred breed for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police and military roles, and even acting. The German Shepherd is the second-most popular breed of dog in the United States and fourth-most popular in the United Kingdom. Average Height: Male in. Bred originally for herding, and later used heavily for police and military work, the German Shepherd dog requires a very special and balanced temperament in order to fulfill its purpose. Temperament, workability, versatility, drives, nerves and all other aspects of the dog can be assessed and verified via training, competition and judgement from officials. Even if you do not want to compete in any sports or work your dog, you still want a dog that is capable of it. Saying you "just want a pet, not a show or working dog" could leave you with an unsound dog who is not capable of doing the things it was bred to do. Just because your German Shepherd will be a family companion, doesn't mean you have to settle for anything less than a sound, healthy and trust worthy dog. We never breed for size, color, or anything superficial. We only breed our highest quality dogs. Call or text .Bringing happiness and love through puppies!! Some of my story…. I have been in love with german shepherds ever since i was 20 and got my first German shepherd dog named Elsa. I decided about 10 years ago that i wanted to start breeding. I work hard on breeding only from the best lines. I breed for health, temperament, workability, beauty, and many other things. I try to stick to long coats because those are my favorite. Our goal with our breeding program is to promote healthy, sound dogs, who are suitable for any situation and be gentle enough to able to be handled by families as well. I have a variety of drives and energies and each puppy goes thru temperament testing to make sure they go to the right homes, as well as being raised on the Puppy Culture Program. I do not promote the extreme roach back shepherds. Mine either have the proper gentle slope or a more straight old fashioned back. All my dogs are part of the family. We do not have kennels, and I will never keep my dogs in kennels. That would make them very unhappy lol. Every dog i own lives in the house with us and is part of our family. I have recently acquired a nursery shed! It was bought as a shell and I am building the whole inside into puppy rooms, and after the puppies are raised indoors in my bedroom for the first couple weeks, they are then moved out to the nursery shed! They will still be in the house all the time, but they will be in the shed and outdoors when nice for a majority. I am so excited for the addition and have been waiting a long time for it!!!! My goals for are to get ALL my dogs various titles! I implement the Puppy Culture Program into our litters! Its amazing, and so much fun! I love being able to give puppies the absolute best start in their lives which will impact their whole life! Its an amazing program! Puppies are raised for the first 2 weeks in our bedroom so we can watch over them carefully and someone is always with them during that time, and during that time we also do the Early Neurological Stimulation with them. Then we move them to their bigger whelping pens which will be the nursery shed now where we play classical music and other varieties including thunderstorm all the time except bedtime when its quiet time. They learn to use the litter boxes and play with toys. We introduce to new sounds, smells, and textures daily. They are raised in our home and underfoot most of the time, and are handled all day everyday, so they get the full family setting and used to daily family activities and noises and such. This is all a HUGE learning process for me. I do my best and try my hardest at all times. I do not claim to be perfect but I always strive for perfection. I want to produce the best quality dogs I can and I want everyone to always be happy with their lifelong companions. I may make mistakes along the way, but I will always try to fix them and do better next time and move forward and take each mistake as a learning opportunity. My goal is to provide happiness and love to everyone thru my favorite dog- the German shepherd. I also provide transport for my puppies and others as well. They change so often, I cannot give a set price at any time until its actually time to book. If transport is needed to meet you someplace or take a puppy to meet you at the airport, it is the same, 50 cents a mile round trip. I will start a list in the menu at the top, of websites, or breeder names, whom I feel are deserving of recognition. Ill try to update this list whenever I think of someone or something I may have missed!

Family Integration The German Shepherd Dalmatian mix, also known as the German Shepmatian, is a unique and eye-catching breed that may pique your interest. A puppy of these two breeds combines the robustness of the German Shepherd breed and the friendliness of a Dalmatian parent. When it comes to temperament and behavior, you can expect your German Shepmatian to be an active, trainable dog that thrives with daily exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs often make excellent family pets, possessing the working drive and protective nature of the GSD alongside the playful, sociable nature of the Dalmatian. With its strong, athletic build, this mixed breed can have a variety of coat types — from the short and dense coat of the Dalmatian to the medium double coat of the GSD breed. As for color, you might see the iconic Dalmatian black spots on a German Shepmatian, but it could also inherit the more traditional GSD coat colors. Size When it comes to size, the German Shepherd Dalmatian mix is a medium to large-sized dog with a sturdy structure. Keep in mind that their size and strength could vary depending on the traits inherited from their parent breeds. Height Your German Shepmatian can stand anywhere between 19 48 cm and 26 inches 66 cm tall at the shoulder. This range is due to the varying heights of their parent breeds — a GSD typically stands between 22 53 cm and 26 inches 66 cm , while a Dalmatian can range from 19 48 cm to 26 inches 66 cm in height. Be prepared for a dog that may end up being taller or shorter depending on which parent breed they take after. Weight In terms of weight, you can expect your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix to fall within the range of their parent breeds. This crossbreed will likely weigh between 45 20 kilograms and 80 pounds 36 kilogram , again depending on which traits they inherit. Dalmatian German Shepherd Mix Characteristics and Traits Temperament The German Shepherd and Dalmatian mix is a loyal, active dog with high energy levels, making it a great companion for dog owners with an active lifestyle. They make loving companions, and their temperament reflects the best of both Dalmatians and GSDs. They are friendly, outgoing, and they easily bond with their human family members. Intelligence Typically, German Shepmatians are highly intelligent dogs, which is a trait inherited from both of their parent breeds. Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to train and eager to please. With proper training, your German Shepmatian can learn quickly and be a well-behaved companion. Energy Levels This mix breed is known for its high-energy levels and high activity levels. Therefore, they must have plenty of opportunities for physical and mental stimulation. Because of their size and energy, you might find it challenging to accommodate their needs if you live in a small apartment. A house with a fenced yard would be more suitable for their lifestyle. Exercise Requirements Your active, high-energy German Shepmatian will require daily exercise to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. This can include activities such as: Long walks or runs Fetch or Frisbee games Agility or obedience training Remember to use positive reinforcement during training to encourage good behavior and maintain a strong bond with your dog. This will help them become well-adjusted to different situations, people, and other animals. Regular exposure to new experiences will ensure that your dog remains confident and comfortable in various environments. While Dalmatians were originally bred as coach dogs, GSDs are known for their guarding and protection abilities. Your German Shepmatian mix may inherit these traits, making them a potentially protective family member. However, proper training and socialization can help prevent aggressive or overly protective behavior. This mixed breed may have a lower risk of inheriting certain genetic conditions, but you should still keep an eye out for common medical issues. For instance, your dog may be prone to hip dysplasia, a joint condition that can impact their mobility. Additionally, skin allergies are another concern you should watch out for. Since the Dalmatian breed is known for being susceptible to deafness, you may want to ensure your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix receives regular ear checkups. Kidney diseases and urinary system issues are also potential health concerns, as both parent breeds can be prone to them. Lastly, anxiety could be a problem for your dog, so maintaining a consistent routine and providing lots of mental stimulation can help keep stress levels in check. To ensure your dog has a long and healthy life, be diligent about attending regular vet checkups, providing proper exercise and nutrition, and staying attentive to any signs of health concerns. With proper care and attention, your dog will have a great chance of enjoying a healthy and fulfilling life by your side. These dogs have medium to long coats that require regular brushing to remove dead hair and prevent matting. A fine-toothed comb or a slicker brush will work well for this task. Brush your dog at least once a week, but consider doing it more often during shedding seasons. Diet The diet of your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix plays a crucial role in their overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet consists of high-quality dog food and plenty of fresh water. Ensure that the dog food you choose is specifically designed for large, active breeds like the German Shepherd and Dalmatian. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and related health problems. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or beef. They also make a great low-calorie treat. Avoid Human Food: While it may be tempting to share your meals with your dog, most human foods are unhealthy for them and can cause digestive issues. If you notice excessive shedding, consider changing their diet to improve their hair health. Aside from diet, ensure your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix receives sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Regular walks, playtime, and obedience training are all great ways to engage your dog physically and mentally. Training and Socialization Bringing home a German Shepherd Dalmatian mix means that you should start focusing on training and socialization early. These dogs are highly intelligent and energetic, which makes them relatively easy to train, but also demands your time and effort. Training Techniques As with any dog breed, begin by establishing a strong bond and trust with your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praise, and toys for engaging and motivating your pup. Keep training sessions short, consistent, and fun for best results. Interaction with Other Pets Your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix may inherit strong guarding instincts and protective nature from both parent breeds, making it essential to socialize them with other pets early. Introduce your dog to other friendly dogs and animals gradually, under controlled settings. Monitor their interactions until you feel confident they understand how to play and communicate appropriately with other pets. Continue this process throughout their life to ensure they stay well-adjusted and sociable. Family Integration A properly socialized and trained German Shepherd Dalmatian mix can be an excellent family dog, loyal and affectionate to all family members. Encourage every member of your household to participate in the training and care of your dog, reinforcing the bond between them and your pup. Ensure each family member knows the importance of consistency during training to avoid confusion for your dog. When integrating your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix into your family, keep in mind their energetic nature and need for physical activity. Schedule daily exercise, such as walks, jogs, or games of fetch, to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Moreover, remember their working dog heritage, as engaging in activities like agility or scent detection can tap into their instincts and further deepen your bond with them. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. IMDb described it as a movie where the villain plotted to steal Dalmatian puppies to use their fur in making an extravagant coat. The movie made the Dalmatian breed a household name. Dogumentary TV described Dalmatians as delightful dogs with eye-catching spots of black — the most distinctive coat in the dog world. It is a medium to large size dog and was originally used to guard horses. To date, Dals are considered as one of the most reliable watchdogs to have. These unique black spots slowly appear as Dals grow. The spots can be scattered, in one place or just all over their bodies. They even have spots inside their mouths. Dals also comes with a strong body from their muscular muscles. According to AKC , one thing that you should consider if you will get a Dal is their weak urinary tract. Dals have a high risk of developing bladder stone problems. He owned the first registered GSD whose name was Horan. A handsome dog, the GSD is known for its great looks, agility, and bravery. The unique trait of German Shepherds is their soft heart. Aside from being brave, this breed of dog is known for taking a risk when saving the life of its owner. They are also intelligent and easy to train. According to its website, it is a dog that can weigh up to 95 pounds. For its positive traits, a German Shepmatian is expected to show protective and guarding instincts. It inherits its protective instinct from its German Shepherd parent and the guarding instinct from its Dalmatian parent. Is There a Demand for a German Shepmatian? Having a Dalmatian and a German Shepherd breed is not a wise choice according to a Quora member. The Quora member explained that both breeds have serious medical issues. The German Shepherd is known for having bad hips and back problems while Dalmatians are known for having skin and gall bladder problems. This probably explains why there is not much demand for a German Shepmatian in the market today. Even breeders are not attempting to produce one. Your options? You can either get a purebred Dalmatian, a purebred German Shepherd or find a popular mix of breeds from these two. What to Expect from a German Shepmatian? If you will breed a GSD and a Dalmatian together, you should be aware of the following factors according to the All Shepherd website. Coat GSDs have thick and medium-length coat while Dalmatians have a short and smooth coat. Combine them and you can expect a dog with medium to short hair. Both breeds are heavy shedders. Sweeping and vacuuming might become a part of your daily task once you got a German Shepmatian. Color GSDs are mostly available in tan, black, sable or a combination of these colors. Dalmatians come with white skin covered with black spots. Size GSDs and Dals are medium to large dogs. You can expect the German Shepmatian to be a medium to large dog that can weigh up to 90 pounds. GSDs can grow up to 26 inches while Dals can grow up to inches. You can have a German Shepmatian that can grow as tall as 26 inches. Temperament The German Shepherd and Dalmatian have the same traits such as being loyal, alert, and intelligent. Both breeds are also highly trainable. If you will mix them, you will have a very focus German Shepmatian from the herding experiences of a German Shepherds and a great companion from the coach companion experiences of Dalmatians. Exercises and Physical Activities Although they have a different purpose, German Shepherds and Dalmatians are both used as human partners. GSDs are very energetic while Dalmatians are very powerful and can run for miles. A German Shepmatian means having a very active dog that will need physical activities regularly. Diet German Shepherd should be fed with a high-protein diet. Dalmatians have low-tolerance with the high-protein diet because of their unique urinary system. You should watch what you fed your German Shepmatian because of this. Besides, Dalmatians gains weight easily and are at risk of becoming obese. Skin allergies and dysplasia are common to both breeds. When breeding, the genetic factor is a big consideration. Breeding is being done in the hope to copy some good characteristics of a specific breed and pass it onto another breed. Open Learn believes that if you will breed two dogs with the same traits, passing the said trait is higher. However, in some cases, negative characteristics care also passed on to the cross-breed pups. In the case of a German Shepherd Dalmatian mix, their medical condition is one of the negative traits that each parent might pass on to their offspring such as: Congenital deafness is common in GSDs High risk of developing bladder stone Heart enlargement is common among large dogs Skin allergy High risk of developing obesity With No Demand for German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix, What Are Your Options? Because of the possible medical issues that a German Shepmatian can have, breeders, are not too excited about this breed. Allshepherd revealed that there is little or zero demand for this mix. If you still prefer a cross-breed with GSD or Dalmatian as a parent, here are popular mix breeds to choose from. Pitmation Pitbull Dalmatian mix — do you want a tiny cute Pitbull with dots on its body? Try looking for a Pitmation. You can find some spots on its legs based on the image of K9ofmine. Dalmador Labrador Dalmatian mix — this is one of the most popular mixes out there for a Dal. These two dogs have common traits and body size too hence breeding them is easier than compared to other dog breeds. Combine its genes with the strong and powerful German Shepherd and you got one fine soldier to guard you and your home. Shollie Collie German Shepherd mix — brave, easy to train, and a great companion — this is what a Shollie is. Expect it to have that thick and long hair that sheds every day. Rottweiler Shepherd Rottweiler German Shepherd mix — in the image provided by K9ofmine , you will have a dog with a German Shepherd body and a face of a Rottweiler. Get a Dalmatian — want a family pet that can accompany your kids while you are doing some stuff? Get a German Shepherd — GSDs are considered as one of the best house dogs in the world according to PetsWorld because of its intelligence and calm nature. Just make sure to train it as early as possible to control its temperament. A German Shepmatian is a good-looking pet companion that you can bring wherever you go. It mirrors strength and power. However, since both breeds are susceptible to common medical conditions, the chance to have a pup with aggravated hip dysplasia, gall bladder issue or skin problem should also be considered. Plus, the diet of these two dogs is very different hence taking care of a German Shepmatian pup requires serious attention. It is important to note that purebred Dalmatian breeds cannot tolerate high amounts of protein well, but German Shepherds can. This makes it essential to find a balance between the two requirements. This means a certified raw food diet if recommended by a veterinarian nutritionist can be a good source of food for them. Kibble mixes may contain too many carbohydrates that will not be beneficial to their health. Ultimately, too many carbs in the Dalmatian German Shepherd diets can cause digestive issues and is a cause of yeast infections in the German Shepherds. Dalmatian German Shepherd Mix Exercise Dalmatian German Shepherds are extremely intelligent and active dogs that need lots of space to let out their energy. This includes daily walks, a large open-spaced garden, and human interaction through toys such as tug of war. It is common for Dalmatian German Shepherds to go through an energetic period throughout the day where they will around the garden in an attempt to relieve some of their energy. They also enjoy playing chase with other large dog breeds and walks are known to be their favorite time of the day. If you enjoy going on runs yourself, you can even take your Dalmatian German Shepherd with you on a lead to run as well. Many owners who cycle will also tie the lead around the bike and cycle a short distance with this dog breed. As they get older, their activity levels will decrease, and they will sleep for longer periods. Since Dalmatians are prone to obesity and arthritis, it is important to keep them active alongside a healthy diet. They can learn tricks quite easily like lie down, give paw, rollover. There are also many tasks you can teach this dog breed, such as fetching the newspaper or even bringing the ball back after you throw it. Dalmatian German Shepherds rarely acquire behavior issues, but if it is inhibiting your ability to train your dog, then you should call a canine behavioralist to help you with the situation. They have various coat layers and are shed regularly. This makes them undesirable dogs for families with fur allergies or for families that do not want a dog that sheds through every season. This dog breed should be brushed regularly, ideally once a day. They should also be bathed every few months with a gentle shampoo to get rid of dirt and debris that accumulates on their fur. Take care not to bathe them too often as this removes the natural oils their fur needs to remain healthy and shiny. Various coat supplements can contribute to a healthier coat and skin which can help control shedding. A post shared by Jessica Lynn jessikuhlihn Health and Conditions Dalmatian German Shepherds may be strong and sturdy dogs, but this does not limit the number of health conditions they can develop. If kept healthy, this dog breed does not fall ill easily. If your Dalmatian German Shepherd does fall ill, it is crucial to take them to the vet right away. Minor Conditions. It will likely be leaner if it predominantly takes after the Dalmatian parent or stockier if it takes its physique from its GSD parent. Coat Having a Dalmatian parent does not always lead to spotted offspring. A Dalmatian x GSD cross can take after either parent and even puppies from the same litter can appear dramatically different from one another. Pups of this cross can either have the short and dense coat of the Dalmatian or the medium-to-long double coat of the German Shepherd. A cross that takes its coat after the GSD parent will need more frequent bathing and brushing, and will likely blow off their coats twice a year. Their ears will also need more attention if they take after their Dalmatian parent. Unlike the GSD, which has large upright ears, Dalmatians have large floppy ears, which need to be checked frequently and dried thoroughly after every bath. A German Shepherd Dalmatian mix will undoubtedly be strong and athletic. In terms of bite force, the GSD has a pretty serious bite at psi. Speed A Dalmatian-German Shepherd mix will undoubtedly be quick on their feet, especially given the heritage of both parents as working dogs. German Shepherds are already known to be fast runners. German Shepherds run at speeds of approximately 32 miles per hour. However, the leaner bodies of Dalmatians enable them to run even faster at about 37 miles per hour. Apart from speed, you can expect a GSD-Dalmatian cross to have incredible agility and stamina. This makes them potentially good working dogs or companion dogs for active humans. Exercise Requirement Given the energy levels of both its parents, the German Shepherd Dalmatian mix will undoubtedly need plenty of exercise. At least one hour of physical work per day is ideal for these dogs. Additionally, they should have ample space to roam independently so they can build their confidence on their own. The intelligence levels of both the GSD and the Dalmatian also signal that a cross between the two will likely need plenty of mental stimulation. These dogs will thrive with plenty of training and opportunities to work their brains. Otherwise, they could quickly develop some destructive behaviors. Trainability German Shepherds are among the smartest working dog breeds in the world. In fact, it ranks 3rd and shares this tier of intelligence with breeds like the Border Collie, Poodle, Golden Retriever, and Doberman. At this level, dogs are expected to learn new commands in fewer than five tries. At this level, they may take up to 25 repetitions to master a command. No matter which of the two parents a crossbreed will take after, however, it is expected to be highly trainable with a good work ethic and a strong eagerness to please. These dogs are good-natured and adaptable to almost every kind of environment. However, a lot depends on its training and socialization. When properly socialized—ideally during puppyhood—these dogs are not only stable but also playful, loyal, and affectionate. Health Like most large dogs, the Dalmatian-German Shepherd mutt might be prone to hip dysplasia. However, national breed clubs require their breeding stock to be tested for such issues. If both parents of a mutt are from reputable breeders, the crossbreed puppy should be perfectly healthy. Lifespan The lifespan of a German Shepherd-Dalmatian cross is expected to be between 11 to 14 years old, which is based on the typical lifespan of both its parents. Given that mixed breeds are less likely to suffer from certain genetic conditions , however, it is likely that the GSD-Dalmatian mix will live close to the higher end of the range. However, such crosses can still participate in certain AKC-hosted canine competitions, including Obedience, Agility, Rally, and Tracking. How popular is the German Shepherd x Dalmatian mix? That makes the German Shepherd Dalmatian mix pretty rare. It would be difficult to find reputable breeders that specialize in this crossbreed as these pups are often the result of accidental mating. Nevertheless, there are still proponents of the Dalmatian x German Shepherd mix. They believe that purposely crossing the two breeds results in beautiful, healthy, and vibrant dogs. When trained properly, they are also excellent working dogs. Just like the Australian Shepherd and Dutch Shepherd , they tend to be incredibly intelligent and energetic, so, they thrive in households that give them plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation. Bernard German Shepherd mix! Photo: Instagram The Dalmatian German Shepherd mix borrows a decent amount of its physical appearance from both parent breeds. If your Shepherd Dalmatian inherits more of its Dalmatian parent, it will likely have a smooth coat and black spots. The German Shepmatian will adopt the face shape of either parent breed they have a similar face shape, to begin with , though it will likely have the floppy ears of the Dalmatian. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. We can glean a lot from what we know about the Dalmatian and German Shepherd breeds. Both are European dog breeds, with the Dalmatian being an older breed by a few centuries. It may even have been a result of an accidental mating. The History of the Dalmatian The history of the Dalmatian is thought to stretch back to the 14th century, with the first written account of the Dalmatian coming in , when a Slovenian Bishop mentioned a spotted hunting dog from the Croatian region of Dalmatia in his writings. Later paintings and documented descriptions of the Dalmatian stretch back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It was referred to as Dalmatian in by Thomas Pennant, a Welsh naturalist and travel writer. As time wore on and society became more egalitarian, Dalmatians found themselves used in different roles, primarily as working dogs — either war dogs during the First and Second World Wars or as firefighting dogs — escorting firefighting apparatus. They are also competent hunting dogs due to their energy levels. Much of their early American history is as fire station mascots, although they are now firmly beloved family pets. Dalmatians in the United States began their time in North America as firehouse dogs and hunting companions due to their high capacity for intense physical exercise. However, the Dalmatian has since transitioned from a working dog to a firm family companion. They sometimes suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Dalmatians typically do better with experienced dog owners and are not recommended for the elderly due to their size and exercise requirements. How Did Dalmatians Come About? However, we do have first-hand accounts from a Slovenian bishop — Peter — that tells of a black and white-haired dog with spots on its body that he observed in the Dalmatia region of Croatia. We also have illustrations from the 17th century that provide a picture of the Dalmatian, but there is not much by way of cynological history to go on. The history of crossbreeding of the Dalmatian is more elusive than the history of the Dalmatian itself! But the when, where, how, why and by whom remains elusive. Crossbreeding dogs in the United States became very popular in the s and early s, having been introduced into the canine culture of the country in the s. The Dalmatian and its various mixed-breed offspring were likely bred during that time. A German man, ex-cavalry Captain Max von Stephanitz, first purchased it. Stephanitz was a former German cavalry officer, a farmer, and a former veterinary college student. Captain von Stephanitz needed a highly intelligent breed that could do tireless physical activity for his farmland. While at a dog show, on the hunt for the perfect breed, he noticed a dog that he thought would fit the mold. Thirty years later, the Society for German Shepherd dogs had more than 50, members. The modern history of the German Shepherd maintains its workhorse nature, as the GSD has been used routinely in military and police functions, owing much of that to its size and strength and its notoriety as a highly intelligent breed. German Shepherds are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States, ranking in most popular dog breeds in the United States, routinely ranking inside the top ten. Because of their need for moderate daily exercise, the GSD is often viewed as one of the best family dogs if the family is active. German Shepherds are also natural guardians — like their Dalmatian mix — another notch in the column for the perfect family pet. The German Shepherd was first called Horand von Grafath and was purchased by Max von Stephanitz from a dog show in .German Shepherds are often bred to breed standards, and crossbreeding of GSDs is far less prevalent in Europe than in the United States. However, German Shepherd crossbreeds do happen, like the German Shepmatian. One of the most important parts of owning a dog is researching beforehand. Part of this research into your new potential dog will be its temperament. Like the Dalmatian puppy, active puppies and dogs will require an active, outdoorsy family with plenty of room to grow as they mature. The German Shepmatian will likely adopt different parts of the temperament of its parent breeds — including some negative traits, such as separation anxiety and possible aggression if not adequately socialized — commonly found in German Shepherds. You can expect your Dalmatian German Shepherd mix to have a highly energetic temperament, possibly with a high prey drive. Still, they generally make excellent family pets if properly trained and socialized from an early age. German Shepmatians are known to be wonderfully friendly animals, with both parent breeds being friendly dogs, producing an even-tempered mixed breed. As individual breeds, the Dalmatian and the German Shepherd are very used to intensive training and command-following, so you can expect your German Shepmatian to be equally easy to train. Be aware that until adequately trained , your German Shepherd Dalmatian mix may exhibit some destructive behaviors associated with separation anxiety. However, German Shepherds and Dalmatians are incredibly intelligent breeds, so they should pick up on training quickly. The average weight of a German Shepmatian is 60 to 80 pounds. The average height of a Dalmatian German Shepherd mix is between 22 and 26 inches tall. Similar Sized Breeds The German Shepherd Dalmatian mix is a large breed similar in size to a few different, including both their parent breeds. You can expect your Dalmatian German Shepherd mix to be a heavy-shedding dog. Dalmatians are single-coated dogs and shed moderately, while German Shepherds have two coats and shed heavily. Regarding exercise, the Dalmatian German Shepherd mix is among the most energetic dogs. The Dalmatian German Shepherd mix requires at least 45 minutes of exercise each day, including at least one day of off-leash running, fetching, or hiking on the weekends. It helps maintain a healthy weight, along with various other health benefits. The life expectancy of a Shepherd Dalmatian is between 10 and 12 years. Positive reinforcement is used to discipline and train these dogs because of how sensitive they can be. A German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix responsiveness depends in large part on whether or not it was properly socialized as a puppy; this means interacting with different people and animals during childhood development which builds psychological stability for life. Its tail is also medium-sized and may be thick or slim, depending on your preference in terms of style. This is a breed with an assortment of coat colors and shedding. With both short or medium coats, you can have black-colored dogs that will shed just as much as their longer-haired counterparts. However, this breed may possess liver spots across their chests while others might be covered entirely by dark fur instead. The markings on this dog are more distinguishable and are even inside its mouth. If you want to have the best of both worlds, then a German shepherd crossed with a dalmatian might be your perfect match. Fortunately, for you though they have a variety in their coats. They stand around inches tall when standing on their hind legs and they can range from small dogs less than 40lbs up to large sizes depending on many factors like diet choices. They have an average life expectancy of around years long when cared for properly which makes these adorable creatures perfect as family pets. This high-energy dog can be loyal, alert, and energetic with an unmatched intelligence level. It loves running or swimming beside its owner. In addition, it will love engaging in destructive behaviors like digging up your yard if not exercised enough. With such high energy levels that are matched only by its loyalty towards humankind. The German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix is perfect for any family. It will thrive in a kind environment where it can feel safe from strangers with open paws. If you are looking for even-tempered dogs that will thrive in an environment where kindness reigns supreme then look no further than German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix who has been bred specifically just like us: loyal kiddos full of intelligence waiting patiently on your every command. Daily brushing will help keep up a healthy coat, but even more so bathing sessions should be kept at around three per year because frequent bathing can lead to excessively dry skin that may result in allergies for some dog owners who are sensitive about this issue. You might be wondering how a German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix likes to get clean. As the pup grows up and becomes more active with its newfound freedom in your home; let them come across lots of other pets or people to get acquainted with too. Happy to get Trained: German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix have been known for their intelligence and easy trainability, but this does not mean they always work out. Is the German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix fine to own? This German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix breed is a brilliant and faithful pet. If you want to have an active lover for your house then this mix would be perfect! Final Thoughts: The German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix is a gentle and loving breed that can never be matched with its candied characters. The needs of this breed are suppressed by giving it all the love in your heart, so you will not regret it for one second. Just take care of them well enough for their temperament; these dogs will not let you down. Post navigation. Panda, Tan, Sable, Black, White, Spotted, Mottled Suitable for: Active families or individuals looking for strong, energetic working breed dogs Temperament: Intelligent, active, loyal, affectionate, eager to please The German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix is a relatively new designer breed, and its exact origin is unknown. However, we can gain insights into its characteristics by understanding the parent breeds. German Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence, protective nature, and versatility as working dogs. Dalmatians, on the other hand, are recognized for their distinctive coat pattern, elegance, and endurance. By combining these two breeds, breeders aim to create a companion that possesses the best of both worlds. When it comes to physical attributes, the German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix often inherits the athletic build and strong frame of its parent breeds. Their coats can vary, ranging from short to medium in length, and they commonly display the striking black and white spots characteristic of Dalmatians. However, some individuals may exhibit a blend of colors or patterns, showcasing the unpredictability of crossbreeding. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. While they may not be as prevalent as purebred German Shepherds or Dalmatians, these crossbreeds can be found through reputable breeders or adoption centers. Remember to conduct thorough research and select a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Welcoming a German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix puppy into your home requires careful preparation. These energetic and intelligent pups thrive in environments that provide mental and physical stimulation. Providing a dedicated space, ample exercise opportunities, and proper socialization from an early age are key factors in raising a happy and well-adjusted dog. They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and intelligence. These dogs form strong bonds with their families and are often considered excellent guard dogs. With their keen sense of awareness, they possess a natural instinct to protect their loved ones and their territory. Their intelligence, coupled with a willingness to please, makes them highly trainable. They excel in obedience training, and with proper guidance, they can learn an impressive array of commands and tasks. Mental stimulation is crucial for these intelligent breeds to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Engaging them in activities such as puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses will help keep their minds sharp and focused. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them excellent companions, especially for households with children. Their protective instincts can manifest in a gentle and watchful manner, making them excellent playmates and guardians for children. Although these dogs are generally good with children, proper supervision is still important to prevent any unwanted accidents when interacting with children. Early socialization and training is also still necessary, as with any dog, to ensure a harmonious relationship between the dog and the child. The compatibility of the German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix with other pets largely depends on their socialization and upbringing. With proper introductions and early exposure to other animals, they can live harmoniously with cats, other dogs, and small pets. Early socialization is crucial to prevent any potential dominance or aggression issues. Supervised interactions, positive reinforcement, and gradual introductions can help foster a peaceful coexistence between the German Shepherd Dalmatian Mix and other pets in the household! Providing high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level is crucial. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the optimal diet for your specific dog. It is important to note that the dietary requirements of each individual may vary. Factors such as age, activity level, metabolism, and any existing health conditions should be considered when determining portion sizes and frequency of meals. Regular monitoring of their weight and adjustment of their diet as necessary will help maintain their optimal body condition. Daily physical activity is essential to prevent boredom, destructive behaviors, and potential weight gain. Engaging in activities such as long walks, runs, fetch, and obedience training sessions will help them burn off excess energy. Mental stimulation is equally important, so consider incorporating puzzle toys, scent work, or obedience exercises into their routine. Providing them with a sense of purpose and a job to do will help channel their intelligence and energy in a positive direction. With their intelligence and willingness to please, they are highly trainable and enjoy the mental challenge that training provides. Early socialization and obedience training are particularly important to shape their behavior and ensure they grow into well-mannered adults. Positive reinforcement methods , such as rewards and praise, work best with this breed. They respond well to consistent training techniques and thrive in environments where boundaries and expectations are clearly defined. Enrolling in puppy classes or working with a professional dog trainer can be highly beneficial for both you and your dog. If they inherit the coat of the German Shepherd, regular brushing will help keep their coat in good condition and minimize shedding. If they inherit the coat of the Dalmatian, more frequent brushing may be necessary to prevent matting and tangling. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are important aspects of their grooming routine. It is also recommended to establish a dental hygiene regimen, such as regular tooth brushing, to maintain their oral health. Minor Conditions.

This comes at no extra cost to you. This is peak puppy biting time and it will get better soon. So to prepare you and help you be the best puppy parent you can be, this article will show you: What to expect from a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy How big a four-month-old Golden is How much sleep a puppy needs at this age What kind of exercise a four-month-old Golden Retriever needs How to train your four-month-old pup How much a four-month-old Golden Retriever should eat How to deal with teething and chewing 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Behaviors Oliver at 4 months old! At four months old, your puppy has had a couple of months to learn how things operate around the house. This can make things easier for you because your puppy is likely falling into your daily routine. Now that your puppy is a bit older, they may experiment to see what they can make happen for themselves. This does not mean they are a bad pup! You might observe that your four-month-old puppy has even more energy than when they were three months old. This is normal as they gain better coordination and stamina. Always remember that energy is both physical AND mental. What 4-Month-Old Golden Retrievers Look Like Your week-old Golden might start looking a little gangly with long legs that seemingly sprouted overnight see the video below of Oliver. They might also begin losing their cottony puppy coat, which can cause them to look a bit funny as their more coarse adult coat grows in. The picture above is Oliver at four months old, as is this video below. He was so lanky and goofy! Ideally, you were getting your puppy out and about safely, and giving them positive experiences that will prepare them for life as an adult dog. Remember to keep outings with your puppy fun and positive, and avoid things that might be scary or overwhelming. As your puppy shows more signs of physical maturity, it can be easy to start expecting more from them. Be consistent in teaching them how things work, how to act and what to expect. Keep showing them that you are a kind, trustworthy person who meets their needs and keeps things fun and safe. While your puppy may have been a cute round ball of fluff at two months of age , they should be kept nice and lean at this age. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to joint issues. You should be able to easily feel their ribs without having to dig around too much. Four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies need about 18 hours of sleep per day. Sometimes it can feel like they have tons of energy that you need to burn and it can be tempting to keep them really active to try to wear them out. While they definitely do need exercise and fun activities, too much go-go-go can actually backfire and push the puppy into an overtired state. A puppy that is overtired might be really wild — bouncing off your furniture, barking a lot, and biting you more than usual. Creating a routine around nap time and bed time can really help your puppy relax and fall asleep more quickly. They ate, they pooped, you took them on a nice stroll and played with their favorite squishy ball. You even did some fun training games and they worked on a puzzle toy. Your puppy parent sense tells you that they are ready for a nap, so you take them outside for a final potty. When you come back inside, you grab a frozen stuffed Kong or toppl for your puppy to enjoy in their crate. Puppy goes in the crate and you give them their frozen treat. Then you cover the crate, and turn on a white noise machine to drown out noises while they rest. Any time your puppy is making you pull your hair out, ask yourself when their last nap was. So often, an obnoxious puppy is actually a tired puppy and the solution is sleep! Click here to download the potty training cheat sheet to make potty training much easier! Fifteen to twenty-minute walks are best for four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies, but a general rule is to let your puppy set the pace when it comes to exercise. If they need a break and flop down in the shade, let them take a breather. So while you may hope your Golden Retriever pup grows into a great running or cycling partner one day, keep things short and easy for now. And by four months of age, your puppy probably has all their necessary vaccinations, which is such a relief. This can open up their world a bit more, which means you have more options for exercise. Get a well-fitted harness and a long leash , and hit up a local trail or open space with your puppy. Unstructured time outdoors is ideal exercise for this breed. That means your pup is free to sniff and frolic around, rather than being in a perfect heel position by your side. Golden Retrievers were historically bred to spend a lot of time outdoors, running through the fields and bounding through water. Modern Goldens still love these activities and giving your four-month-old pup some nature therapy will set them up for physical and mental wellness. Neighborhood walks can also be a nice outlet for a pup of this age. Always allow your Golden to stop and sniff on walks. In addition, you can also work on:. But to develop properly, your puppy needs your help and encouragement. This is because the biting peaks at about 4 months old. The exercise needs of a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy Training for a four-month-old Golden Retriever Feeding four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies How to deal with chewing and biting What to Expect From a 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever By now your puppy has been in your house for a couple of months and has learned about the rules and the way things work in their environment. This means that your puppy is getting comfortable and falling into step with your daily routine. Because of this, things are a little less chaotic in dealing with your pup than they were when you first brought them home. When your pup pushes boundaries and does new things, this is actually a sign of intelligence and mental development, neither of which are bad things. Your puppy will also have more energy, stamina, and coordination than they had in the previous weeks. Their coat will also look a bit odd. This will result in some random patches of fluff. At 4 months old, your golden should be roughly half of its adult height. When it comes to how much they should weigh, the average is around lbs. There are different types of Golden Retrievers and they come in all sizes. Heredity plays a part, as well. If your pup had small parents, then your pup will likely be a little smaller. And if your puppy was seriously ill for a prolonged period of time, then it may have inhibited its ability to grow properly when compared to healthy puppies. But usually, once the worms have been eliminated, the puppy will start to grow normally again. This means that your puppy will have already learned a lot of the socialization skills it needs to develop properly. The socialization your pup experienced prior to their four-month milestone will affect their behaviors and temperament going forward with their lives. Hopefully, you let your puppy go on adventures into the world and they had safe positive experiences. You should still take them out in public and teach them how to be well-behaved. You still need to keep your socialization light-hearted and safe. Your puppy is a baby animal, and they can become traumatized the same as human infants can. You also need to be more patient with them during this time period. Your four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy will sleep somewhere between 11 and 18 hours per day. While your puppy will be really energetic and hyper and your instinct may be to give them lots of exercises to burn off the extra energy, this can actually backfire on you. To avoid an overly- tired puppy, make sure your pup is getting naps in. You can use a crate or pen to help confine them to their sleep area. Developing a nap time routine is quite easy. Once your puppy has eaten, played, and went potty, you can put them in their crate with a soft toy to chew on. Puppies chew to soothe themselves to sleep. Intense exercise and prolonged repetitive motions can even cause injury to their developing joints and muscles. Not to mention the fact that when puppies are over-stimulated and exhausted it causes them to act up. So, how much exercise should a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy get? Your pup has more energy than they did last month, so they can now go on walks for 20 minutes at a time. In general, you should let your puppy decide how much exercise they can handle. If your puppy stops and decides to lay down in the middle of the walk, let them. They obviously need a break. By the time they reach this age, golden puppies should be up to date with their vaccinations, which is great because they love the outdoors. The type of exercise that your Golden Retriever puppy will likely enjoy the most involves unstructured play outside. Originally, Golden Retrievers were bred to hunt and do fieldwork, and your golden puppy will likely love the outdoors because of this. You can gently put them in the water, or allow them to get in themselves. People who live in more urban environments will find that their golden pups will enjoy walks around the neighborhood. Smells will engage brains and provide mental stimulation. You should be focused mainly on teaching your puppy to be comfortable with alone time, as well as potty training. Keep treats with you when you take your pup out on walks to reward positive behaviors and a good job on their leash. For instance, if you typically give your pup a treat when they come back inside from going potty, then you can use this opportunity to work with them to sit and stay and wait for their treat. To work with them about being comfortable with being alone, you should put them in their crate or pen and then gradually stay out of their sight for longer and longer each time. This takes practice. So this training is important. For more information about separation anxiety, check out our article about goldens and separation anxiety. For more information about training, check out our article about training golden retriever puppies. Your four-month-old golden pup should be eating 3 meals a day , spread throughout the day. They should be eating about 1 cup of food at each meal. Golden Retrievers have a major problem with overeating. Like us, they find food enjoyable and comforting too. A good rule of thumb to determine whether your pup is overweight is to pick them up. To find out for certain whether your pup is the right weight, you should take them to the veterinarian and follow their recommendations. Four months old is typically the peak chewing and biting period. This makes their gums uncomfortable and painful. You should also make sure that there are lots of chew toy options and chewy treats in your house so that your puppy can get the chewing out of their system without doing anything destructive. Using pens and gates can be really useful during this time. Just walk to the other side of the pen. If you missed the other articles in this series, you can find them here:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.

Welcome To Our Home Page!!! If your female is in heat or coming into heat give us a call so we can go over the details of how our stud service works. You can see more pictures of the calendar on our photo gallery page. Johnson's Labrador Retrievers is focused on providing high-quality service. We are AKC inspected, approved and licensed in the state of Tennessee. We have lab puppies for sale all the time. Labrador Retrievers are Americans top choice purebred dog. They have great temperament's, make excellent hunting dogs and are great around kids and other pets. With a variety of offerings to choose from, we're sure you'll find what you're looking for here. If you're looking for a Lab puppy right now please visit our Current Litters page to see what puppies we have available, but hurry they go fast! If you're looking for a puppy later down the road, please visit our Upcoming Litters page to see when and what color puppies we are expecting. We have a lot more information on our About Us page so feel free to visit there. We hope to see you again! Check back later for new upcoming litters and updates to our website. Thank you and God Bless!!! Please visit our page called NuVet Plus to find out more about this great immune system builder and multivitamin for your puppy or dog. Or you can click any of the NuVet pictures below and be taken right to NuVet's website! Please note: you can only order with this order code when placing an order on NuVet's website or calling them direct. Not Available in Stores. Email :ashlandlabradors gmail. No matter if you are looking for a loving member to add to your family or are interested in a certain dog sport or venue, our Labradors excel in all areas. We strive for the REAL Labrador Retriever which is one that is not only correct in proper temperament but also a dog that is correct in structure as the written breed standard describes. Labradors are not supposed to be weedy, lanky individuals with pointy heads and equally objectionable are short, fat cumbersome dogs that cannot withstand the vigor's of working or partaking in a family outing. A Labrador Retriever was bred to be a gentleman's hunting dog, a family companion and a breed that can adapt to any situation with ease. They are NOT and never where meant to be a speed machine or a bouncy, over-energized four legged meat dog. Lord knows there are many other breeds out there bred specifically for those reasons. The Labrador should NOT be one of them. True to the correct Labrador temperament, you will find that our dogs are low-key inside the home but when it comes to performing a certain task they are trained for, they turn on like a light-switch. A dog you compete in the ring with, take hunting and then home to lay at your feet. Ashland Labrador Retrievers can be found in homes all across the U. Phone: M-F 9am -4pm. Coat like velvet and a smile that wins your heart. His temperament is a perfect match for our two young boys and he was housebroken within a week. I am so grateful to Toni for bringing such an amazing dog into our world. Google High quality dogs and breeder. We got the best and cutest puppy ever. I have used several of the best breeders throughout the U. Tank is a male that I got through Still Creek Labradors one year ago. Tank is boxy and beautiful. He is so, so smart, sweet and a total joy. He was easy to train as he has such a laid-back, want-to-please attitude. He will be certified this month as my service dog. He is simply the sweetest, most handsome boy and a true pleasure. I would definitely get another dog from Still Creek because they are also wonderful people. Google Lynette Crum If your looking for a professional breeder and some perfect English Labs look no further. Her house is beautiful and well maintained as are her dogs. Toni actually wants people to send her updates on the pups which is rare. She is very down to earth and good hearted. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for this exceptional breed. Since the first moment I met Toni I knew she would hold a very special place in my life. She made the entire experience one I will never forget. We purchased our sweet Charley girl from her in ! Toni and I have stayed I contact over the last couple of years and am excited to say we are going through the process again!!! Toni has such a huge loving heart and loves her dogs unconditionally. I would highly recommend Still Creek Labradors in choosing your life long companion. Google Reviews AKC Registered English Labrador Retrievers Still Creek Labradors are strategically bred from generations of excellent AKC Champion pedigrees prioritizing confirmation, rigorous health testing, and the amazing temperament that sets Labradors apart as the 1 dog breed over 30 years now!! Located in the heart of East Tennessee, we work and produce the highest quality English lines of black, yellow, and chocolate coated Labradors. We strategically breed with the best stud dogs in the world. And, we are committed to placing our puppies according to the needs and lifestyle of each companion. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. The demand for this dog is quite high and able to support a plethora of breeders in most areas, including Tennessee. Of course, you should take your time to research breeders in your area to ensure that you adopt a well-socialized and healthy puppy. Here, we listed the most active Labrador Retriever breeders in Tennessee. Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The 8 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Tennessee 1. For this reason, they are also more expensive than some other breeders. That said, each puppy comes with a hip and elbow dysplasia guarantee, AKC limited registration, and all important vaccinations. Smoky Mtn also provides a health guarantee for their puppies. Their typical wait time is 6—8 months. They are a show breeder, so many of their puppies have champions in their family tree. They are a smaller kennel, producing only two to three litters a year. However, the dogs that they do produce are bred for conformation and temperament. You can contact them through their website for information on their current litter plans. They specialize in diabetes service animals, but other services are available. Their puppies are temperament tested before being sent to their forever homes. Their dogs are also AKC registered. Their dogs compete primarily in AKC conformation. However, some of their puppies have gone on to be drug-detection dogs, service animals, and hunting companions. Their puppies are moderately priced. Trinity does all the necessary genetic and health testing before breeding. Their dogs have competed in dog shows, hunting trials, and obedience.

Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Cute Baby Pug Puppies for Sale When you reach our store in the quest of adorable pug infants, then you will find one of the most beautiful Pug puppies you'll ever see is one of ours. If you have any questions before or after buying a Pug for sale nearby, we urge you to email us anytime. We adore our adorable Pug Puppies and will only give them to families who understand the breed's needs and value its unique characteristics. They occasionally challenge or verbally threaten larger dogs, giving the impression that they could care less about their little stature. For these restless little dogs, which require continual movement regardless of size, even a quick walk around the block will do. Although they have a little independent bent, they are highly intelligent and do well in obedience trials. As they get older, they are more equipped to play the actual lap dog. Even though adorable Pug puppies for sale make excellent alert and alarm dogs, they are frequently prone to excessive barking. These dogs typically behave nicely around kids, but it's important to let kids know they're small dogs and not as strong as larger breeds. We are experts in offering inexpensive Pug pups for sale in the USA. Therefore, anyone searching for "Pug pups for sale cheap" can go to our website or even email us to purchase a fantastic Pug for sale nearby! When you live with a Pug Although some Pug puppies may be picky eaters, they are generally simple to care for. They are physically active, which is most likely why they are not predisposed and not to be groomed once or twice a week to look their best, with daily treatments necessary during the shedding season. Despite their diminutive stature, these adorable Pug puppies benefit from training and need regular exercise. They are extremely intelligent, enjoy acquiring new skills and enjoy performing. The majority of the time, poms get along well with other dogs, but additional care should be used when pairing any toy breed with a large breed because a large breed may unintentionally harm a toy dog. They function well if they are reared around children; otherwise, they could be reticent. Children should be warned that these small canines might not be as strong or resilient as larger dogs and that their interactions should be under adult supervision. With their alert nature and propensity to bark, pugs make ideal watchdogs. Due to their attentiveness and diminutive size, they are the perfect companions for elderly people who live alone. Specific Details about a Pug infant The Pug grows to 8 to 11 inches and weighs between 3 and 7 pounds when it is at its ideal weight and height one to three kilograms. By seven to ten months, they often reach adult size. Pug puppies' floppy ears and foxy faces set them apart from other breeds, in addition to their rich double coats of fluffy hair and alert, prick ears. Its fluffy tail sweeps up and over its back despite its relatively square body form. This Pug for sale close to me is well-suited to the chilly winters of northern Germany, as evidenced by his thick collar and ruff around his neck. Having a distinct side snout, the head is slightly rounded. The Pug breed doesn't have a wide range of colours in puppies. Although off-white is the most often associated with the breed, it is acceptable for other variations of colours, from hints of black on white to sable and around this shade in between. Why rely on us?

Due to their high energy and intelligence, they take lots of time and attention. They are also high maintenance in the grooming and exercise departments. Despite all the time they require, they are worth every minute. Their love and loyalty is unmatched and there is no greater companion than a faithful German shepherd dog by your side. Whether you own one or are planning to get one in the future, there are 17 items that you must have if you own a German shepherd. They are: 1. Good Quality Crate There are many good reasons to teach a dog to use a crate and very few excuses not to. Just a few reasons why crate training is a good idea include, they may be crated at the vet so being familiar with one will help them be calm; they may at some point in their life need to travel in a crate; during an emergency, they may need to be crated for their own safety; a crate is the perfect place to keep your dog when home repair is being done and other strangers are going in and out of the house; when recovering after illness or injury; it is a great training tool, a safe place for an unsupervised puppy. Strong Leash and Collar German shepherds are incredibly strong and very determined. The last thing you need is a collar or leash that will break at the wrong moment. Even better, owning several leashes and collar styles can come in handy. Some tools that can help are educational books, videos, clickers , tugs , treat bag , high value treats , crate, leash , and slip collar. Since German shepherds are so intelligent, there are many things you can teach them so these tools are just the tip of the iceberg. Your plans will depend upon the tools you need so these are just the basics that everyone can use. Chews and toys German shepherds have powerful jaws and they love to chew, especially puppies. There are some companies that make durable rubber dog chews such as Ruff Dawg and Westpaw that are great for German shepherds. Some of these can hold treats to help keep their interest. German shepherds also need lots of exercise and love to play. You can do both at once by playing games of fetch, Frisbee , tug , and more. Nothing will make your German shepherd happier than spending time playing with you and their favorite toy. Good Brush German shepherds shed and shed a lot. To reduce the amount of pet hair in your home, a good deshedding brush is great and a slicker brush will also help remove loose fur. Shampoo and conditioner Despite their shedding, German shepherds are relatively clean dogs unless they get into something that makes them dirty. However, they will need to be bathed so a good Ph balanced moisturizing shampoo and conditioner will help keep them clean and remove dead fur. Since they are also known for their sensitive skin and some have allergies, there are special shampoos that can he kept on hand to reduce itching, seasonal dry skin, or to heal skin irritations. Fenced Yard German shepherds need lots of exercise and a place to safely run and burn off some of their energy. They also have a high prey drive and many love to chase small animals and such so a fenced yard will also help keep them safe should they encounter wildlife or see neighborhood animals. Healthy Food Notorious for their sensitive digestive systems, German shepherds do best on a high-quality diet formulated for large breed dogs and puppies. Storage container for food To help keep food fresh and preserve nutrients, an airtight storage container is perfect. They make them large enough to store an entire bag of food, which is a huge plus. But they are also yummy and fun and like all dogs, shepherds love them. Food and water dishes Depending on the dog, the best food and water dishes are either stainless steel or ceramic. If your dog likes to dig in their water, a heavy bottomed bowl can help reduce spills. If your dog eats too fasts and gulps their food, a slow feeder can help slow them down and make mealtimes more enjoyable. Some bottles have a built-in dish that the water squeezes into so they are super convenient. Our favorite is a bowl with a leak-proof lid for the car that also helps keep the water cool. Dog poop bags Another must for going out with your dog is a supply of dog poop bags. There are containers you can attach to their leash or you can just keep a supply in the car and put one in your pocket. Either way, to avoid embarrassment, they are a great to have on hand. Dog bed Since German shepherds are over 50 pounds when grown, they are considered large dogs. They love a good dog bed that is comfy but also supports their back and joints. Even if they sleep in your bed, their own dog bed is a great idea. Nail clippers Since German shepherds are so active, their nails should be kept trimmed unless they wear them down themselves. Even if you have someone else trim their nails, a good quality nail clipper is good to have on hand in case you need to trim or cut a nail. If you prefer, a nail grinder tool can be used. This is not a complete list but things to consider putting in your kit include the phone number for animal poison control, blood stop powder , bandages, ace bandage, Gas X and Benedryl, Zymox Otic Ear Treatment, etc. Tags and microchip One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to keep their Identification tags and microchip information up-to-date. With no way to reunite them with their family, they are lucky if they are rescued but many dogs are euthanized simply due to overcrowding or they are injured before arriving at the shelter. To protect your dog from becoming a statistic, always keep their ID on them and your contact information current. No one thinks their dog will be the one to get lost but, sadly, it happens all the time. We hope you find this list helpful. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.