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German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today 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. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. 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. Even though you can train a German Shepherd at this age quite easily, the amount of commands that you can teach is quite low, and they are partially just for looks. Though 10 weeks is the point where that growth starts decreasing, and halves at around 4 months or so, before completely stopping. Overall, for female German Shepherds average weight is 8 to 9 kg 16 to 18 lbs , for male dogs it is 10 to 12 kg 20 to 24 lbs. And still, some owners are struggling with that problem. So what should you do, in that case: First of all, for many young German Shepherds the ears are not consistently up. There may be periods when they are up, and sometimes they are just leaning on one side. It is completely normal — they are gradually developing into an adult, and their body changes relatively. A good solution would be just to wait and see. If the ears have been damaged, whether by accident, or by tampering with them, you should definitely take your dog to a vet clinic, where vets will decide what to do. Lastly, if the puppy is older than a year or half a year , and the ears are still not up, then you should, as always, consult a vet. They may operate on the ears if necessary. Behavior It is important, that before the puppy passes the 10 week age mark, it should already know bite inhibition before everything else. Nobody wants an aggressive German Shepherd, does anyone? Should go before every other command, as these tricks also induce patience for the German Shepherd. Learning them first will prove to be beneficial in further training. Lie down. Recommendation: walk the dog for about half an hour or more first, so that it would be tired and thus would be more focused on the task. Additionally, you should never blame your dog if it does something wrong — just repeat the command, until it works out. Then, greet your dog for doing everything correctly. A puppy will never learn anything in a strict and unwelcome environment. But it will surely remember everything if you make it a good and relaxing time, or some sort of a game. In the end, we wish you best of luck with your 10 week GSD, and thank you very much for reading.

As we combine two different purebred dogs, there are so many possible variations and outcomes! Of course, a Bernedoodle puppy will inherit its traits and characteristics from its lineage. The traditional Bernese Mountain Dog coat features a solid jet black base color with white and rust or tan markings. The tan and rust markings are usually present above the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the chest, on the legs, and under the tail. The white markings are found on the muzzle, between the eyes, on the chest, neck, and paws. Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Colors Poodles, on the other hand, most commonly come in a variety of solid colors, such as black, blue, gray, silver, brown, red, apricot, cream, cafe au lait, silver beige, and white. In addition to that, Poodles can also come with different color combinations like black and brown, black and tan, black and apricot, black and cream, brown and apricot, brown and white, and other combinations of the more common solid colors. As you might guess, black and white Bernedoodles have a black solid dominant color and white markings on the face, neck, and chest. Merle Bernedoodle One of the rarest, but most beautiful Bernedoodle colors is the merle pattern. Merle Bernedoodles have a solid base color with speckled patches of diluted colors throughout the coat. The merle coat gene is not as common in either Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs, but it can be passed onto the Bernedoodles when one of the parents is carrying the merle gene. A higher chance of achieving a merle Bernedoodle pup is by crossing a Poodle with a merle Bernedoodle. However, ethical breeders will never cross two merle Bernedoodles, as this increases the risk of serious health issues like blindness and deafness. Red and White Bernedoodle Red and white Bernedoodle is another rare color combination that features a mixture of reds and whites. The more traditional red and white Bernedoodle color has a solid red base on most of the body, while the chest, face, paws, and legs have white hair. Additionally, there are parti red and white Bernedoodles, where the base color is white throughout the body. In contrast, the red markings are found on the face, ears, and sometimes on the back as well. Black Bernedoodle A solid black Bernedoodle is more of a rare find compared to the black and white Bernedoodle and tri-color Bernedoodles. If the goal is to achieve a black Bernedoodle, both parent pups should carry the same recessive gene. The Bernedoodle tri-color pattern features three different colors on the coat. There can be various tri-color patterns with colors like black, brown, tan, rust, apricot, red, white, and cream. The dominant base color is usually darker and white markings are found on the face, chest, feet, and paws. Sable Bernedoodle Another popular choice is the sable Bernedoodle color. Sable Bernedoodles have a solid base color, but the hairs have black tips. Of course, the overall look depends on how much of the hair lengths are colored black from the ends. Phantom Bernedoodle Phantom Bernedoodles are somewhat similar to tri-colored Bernedoodles, but they have less white markings and more brown hues in their coats. The most common phantom combination is black and tan. These pups usually have dominant black color all across the body with tan markings on the face, chest, legs, and paws. This is again a more rare Bernedoodle color out there, but it sure does look beautiful! Chocolate Bernedoodle Chocolate Bernedoodles can come in a variety of patterns. Rare Bernedoodle Colors Of course, in addition to all of the Bernedoodle colors and color combinations we listed above, there are countless other colors and patterns that the puppies can come in. Many of them surprising even the breeders. It all comes down to their genetics and which dominant and recessive genes are present. Additionally, keep in mind that not all puppies in the same litter inherit the same coat colors. As with any Doodle, combining two different breeds gives us endless possibilities. Like many other Doodles, Bernedoodles often carry the fading gene , which is usually inherited from the Poodle side of their lineage. This typically occurs anywhere from 6 to 10 months of age. The fading, also called clearing, is most noticeable in darker colored Bernedoodles who have blacks and browns in their coat. Black Bernedoodles with the fading gene often change into silver, gray, or bluish tones. Chocolate or brown Bernedoodles can turn silver, cream, or silver beige over time. However, merle Bernedoodles might be at a slightly higher risk of certain health problems, such as deafness or blindness. To be fair, it all comes down to your preferences and which colors you like. However, we do recommend you choose your new family member based on their health and temperament, not for their looks only. Black Bernedoodles can fade into gray or silver tones, and chocolate Bernedoodles might fade into silver, silver beige, and beige tones. The only way to accurately predict the color of your puppy is by DNA testing, which you can arrange at an additional cost with your breeder. The rarest variations are bi-color black and white Bernedoodle, sable, phantom, and merle patterns, solid black, and solid white. In conclusion, choosing the color of your Bernedoodle puppy is one of the more difficult decisions that you face. They all look beautiful in their own way, but one thing is for sure — all Bernedoodles have amazing personalities, regardless of their coat color. We hope this guide has given you a good idea about all the different Bernedoodle colors and patterns that are available out there. What is your favorite Bernedoodle color? Let us know in the comments below! Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. When a dog changes from black to grey we call that fading however with a sable color we call it clearing. When puppies are 6 weeks old we can generally tell if a tricolor Bernedoodle puppy will fade and what color a sable Bernedoodle puppy will clear out to. Fading is an interesting topic and one I get a lot of grief from other breeders. I know that health and temperament are the most important but why not have it all????? Yes puppies that fade are beautiful and we love all colors but why breed without a goal? We have been breeding Bernedoodles for 8 years. We have mastered health and temperament. Why not continue upward and produce puppies that hold their color? Bernese is my heart breed. They are one of the most beautiful breeds, their loving loyal personality is something every family can benefit from. My goal is to produce puppies that even as adults look like a Bernese but have the hair of the poodle. Because our extensive experience we can now say with confidence we can tell what color your sable Bernedoodle will be when they are older. The brindle and tricolor is still a bit tricky but we are getting close! Through experience and years of research we believe we have standard lines that will not fade. The tricolor phantom coat or phantom tricolor coat color is the term used for a Bernedoodle with mostly black and rust with limited white. Phantom Tricolor is one of the most requested coat color I get. The phantom tricolor will be born with the black, rust, and white markings. As the dog gets older the hair can blend in making the phantom tricolor look like a phantom Bernedoodle. Phantom Tricolors are different from phantoms. Phantom tricolor Bernedoodles have some white while phantoms are only 2 colors usually black and rust. Some phantom tricolors will turn silver where they were once black and white where they were once brown. Some phantom tricolor Bernedoodles seem to hold their color very well. The phantom tricolor resembles a Bernese mountain dog with limited white. Bernedoodle colors and how they change The picture below is a 6 week old sable Bernedoodle and the same sable Bernedoodle a little over 2 years old. If you look close you can see the lighter color under her eyes is the same color she cleared out to. The ears seem to hold the black coloring. On the puppy picture you can see the dark tipped ear and in the adult Bernedoodle picture you can see the tips of the ears are still black. This puppy is another puppy from one of our non-fading poodles. You can see with age he is the same color as he was when he was a puppy. The picture below is a sable Bernedoodle at 8 weeks, 6 months, and over 2 years. If you look at the 8 week picture you can see that her true color is the brownish red color. You can see the brownish color under her eyes. Again the ears are tipped black and stayed black but her over all color cleared out to the color around her eyes as a young puppy. How does the sable Bernedoodle coat change? Sable Bernedoodles are born dark or even looking black. By the time they are a few days old we can tell if they are sable. The first signs of a sable bernedoodle are highlights by the ears, eyes, muzzle, and underneath the tail. When sable bernedoodles are 6 weeks old you can tell what color they will clear out to buy looking at the color under their eyes. Sable Bernedoodles will usually have a lighter brown, cream, or red coloring under and around the eyes. This is the color your sable Bernedoodle will most likely clear out to. Clearing out is different than fading. With fading we do not know what color the puppy will end up being. With clearing out the dog shows what color it will end up being around 6 weeks of age. You can see 2 examples of how the sable color clears with age below. Brindle Bernedoodle Color changes Sable Bernedoodle clearing-fading Brindle Bernedoodles seem to hold their color whether or not the poodle parent carries the fading gene. This has been the case in my breeding program. Most brindles are born with the brindle color. As the puppy gets older and the hair gets longer the colors blend in. When the puppy is shaved they will still have the brindle coloring. In other breeds brindle coloring can turn grey or silver. I have not seen this with Bernedoodles. In our program our brindle Bernedoodles seem to hold their brindle color. The picture below is one of our brindle Bernedoodle puppies around 10 weeks and 14 months. You can see great examples of some of our sable Bernedoodles on our Sable Bernedoodle page. This tricolor Bernedoodle puppy faded out to a silver color. The first picture shows 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, and 14 months Sable Bernedoodle color changes This puppy below is from a poodle that did not fade. You can see with age he is the same color and his rust shows more now than when he was a puppy. Merle Bernedoodle Coat Changes Any doodle can fade. Because the Bernedoodle has poodle in them they do have a tendency to fade. The fading comes from the poodle parent. Some Bernedoodles start out as black and turn silver. Some Bernedoodles start out looking black and turn cream. Your dogs genetics determine if your puppy will fade. There is not a test available to determine if your dog carries the fading gene. The only way to reduce fading in the Bernedoodle is to know the lineage and chose breeding dogs that have not faded and come from long lines of non-fading poodles. Even with that there is a chance your puppy could change colors with age. The lighter the rust is as a puppy the lighter the rust will be as an adult if your Bernedoodle has the fading gene. It has been interesting to watch the past eight years how the tricolor Bernedoodle color changes. One thing I am finding is that hair type can have an affect on whether or not they fade at an early age. Bernedoodles with a straighter coat seem to hold their color better than Bernedoodles with a curly coat regardless if the poodle parent carries the fading gene. Tricolor Bernedodoles with a poodle parent that faded to silver where their rust used to be seem to start fading as young as 10 weeks. Tricolor Bernedoodles from a phantom poodle parent seem to start fading a bit later around months. Tricolor Bernedoodles from a sable poodle parent seem to start fading around months. Tricolor Bernedoodles from a poodle parent that has not faded seem to hold their color. Because all of our puppies from our poodle parents that do not seem to carry the fading gene are under 2 years old we do not know what age they will start fading or if they will hold their color until they turn grey from old age. Do Bernedoodles Fade? The merle Bernedoodle coat is a newer coat color. Our Merle Bernedoodles are to young to know how their color will be as adults. So far what we are seeing is that the merle coat is actually turning a darker shade of grey. You can see with age his rust lightened up to a tan color and his coat came in wavy. This tricolor Bernedoodle puppy is from one of our phantom poodles that did fade. This picture shows the Bernedoodle puppy at 9 weeks, 5 months, 9 months, and 18 months. Sable Bernedoodle Colors This tricolor phantom Bernedoodle puppy below is from out phantom male Trip. He over 2 years old and is the same color as when he was 8 weeks old. You can see that his rust is very similar to that of a pure Bernese mountain dog. He has a straighter coat. Tricolor Bernedoodle fading. Tweet Due to their shared genetic heritage with the Poodle, Bernedoodles can be found in a rainbow of colors and patterns. The fluffy, soft coat of a Bernedoodle, generally hypoallergenic and non-shedding, makes this dog a popular choice for allergy sufferers and those who simply want a low-maintenance pet. Some puppies may not have all of the typical Bernedoodle colors. Based on the genetic patterns of both sets of parents, we can predict the range of possible coat colors for an upcoming litter. This post will cover the most common Bernedoodle coat colors and some unique coat patterns. They are the offspring of a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, and their coat colors are a harmonious blend of those of their parent breeds. These fluffy dogs are available in a wide variety of coat colors that are as rare as this hybrid breed itself because they inherit the non-shedding coat of their Poodle parents and a combination of the coloring of the Bernese Mountain pet. There are countless possibilities when we breed two purebred dogs together. Naturally, a Bernedoodle puppy will take after its parents and grandparents. The tan and rust coloring typically appears above the eyes, cheeks, sides of the chest, legs, and the base of the tail. The white spots can be seen anywhere from the nose and between the eyes to the chest, the neck, and the paws. Poodle Dog Colors On the other hand, Poodles are available in many different solid colors, including blue, gray, black, silver, apricot, cream, brown, red, cafe au lait, silver beige, and white. Poodles are not limited to the more common solid colors; they can also be found in various patterns and colors. A significant aspect of the hybrid is the lack of predictability in their physical characteristics. Puppies from the same litter can have wildly varying coat colors and patterns. You should be aware of the various coat varieties as they may play a role in determining the prices involved. Straight Coat Hair Coat People who are allergic to dander and hair should avoid this coat because of its higher propensity to shed. As a side note, the straight coat, also known as the flat coat, is not entirely straight; instead, it has slight waves. The coat has a distinct wave pattern and sheds very little. Because of the tight coils, hair stays in the curly coat even though it may shed just as often. Therefore, they need to be groomed regularly. Keep in mind that hypoallergenic coats need more care and grooming than regular coats to stay healthy and odor-free. Black and white Bernadoodles, as you might expect, have a predominantly black coat with white markings on the head, chest, and neck. The paws and feet of some of the Bernadoodles are marked white. Merle Bernedoodle The merle pattern is rare in Bernedoodles but is also one of the most beautiful coat colors. Although merle coats are less common in Poodles than in Bernese Mountain Dogs, you can pass on a merle coat gene carried by one parent to the offspring of a Bernedoodle. Crossing a Poodle with a merle Bernedoodle increases the odds of producing a merle Bernedoodle pup. To avoid the increased risk of health problems like blindness and deafness, ethical breeders will never cross two merle Bernadoodles. Red and White Bernedoodle Another unusual Bernedoodle coat color is a red and white variety. The traditional Bernedoodle is a reddish brown all over, with white hair on the chest, face, paws, and legs. There are also red and white parti Bernedoodles, which are entirely white on the inside furs. The red markings, in contrast, are typically located on the head and neck, though they can also appear on the shoulders and back. Solid Black Coat Bernedoodle There are more black and white Bernedoodles and tri-color Bernedoodles than solid black ones. Since the solid black coat originates from a recessive gene, breeding for that coat color is much more challenging. Both parent puppies must be carriers of the black recessive gene if a black Bernedoodle is produced. This is just one of the Bernedoodle colors that are considered to be popular, along with those with a tri-colored coat. Of all the Bernedoodle colors, this is most certainly one of the most popular. A solid black Bernedoodle is not one of the rarest Bernedoodle colors, but it is still very desirable. Tri-Color Bernedoodle Tri-color is one of the more common Bernedoodle coat colors. Bernedoodle was initially bred to honor the Bernese Mountain Dog. The Bernedoodle coat has three distinct colors in a tri-color pattern. Black, tan, rust, brown, white, apricot, red, and cream are just some colors that can create a wide variety of tri-color patterns. The body is darker than the chest, face, feet, and paws, which are white. Sable Bernedoodle The Bernedoodle in sable is another popular coat color option. The degree to which the ends of the hair are black determines the overall coat color. Additionally, Sable Bernedoodles have the best chance of clearing, so their color gradually becomes much lighter as they age. Black and tan is the most frequent color scheme for the Phantom Bernedoodle. An overall black coat characterizes these puppies with tan markings on the head, chest, legs, and paws. All of their bodies are black but have tan markings on their legs, faces, eyebrows, paws, and chests. Although Phantom Tricolor Bernedoodles resemble regular tricolor Bernedoodles in many ways, they differ in that they lack white on the muzzle, face, paws, and tail of the breed. Only the chest of a Phantom Tricolor Bernedoodle is colored white. Phantom Merle Bernedoodle Phantom Merle Bernedoodles have solid coats with merle patches on the chest, legs, muzzle, eyebrows, throat, and paws. Cream, tan, and white are standard colors for their smooth, short coat. Phantom Bernedoodles are defined as having a two-toned coat, with the merle patches being one color and the solid patches being the other. They are frequently mistaken for Phantom Bernedoodles, which are also popular but have a two-toned coat but no marbling. Chocolate Bernedoodle The coats of Chocolate Bernedoodles can have any number of different patterns. Several chocolate Bernedoodle varieties include the classic solid chocolate variety with deep brown shadings, phantom, sable, tri-color, and parti chocolates. Because the Bernese Mountain Dog lacks the chocolate gene, chocolate coats are typically seen in offspring of the F1b generation and later. Brindle Bernedoodle Some dog breeds have coats that are colored, Brindle. When they get older, the brindle color pops. There are several different types of brindles, including solid Brindle, Brindle with white like the Bernese Mountain Dog, and the more abstract Brindle. During the cleaning process, the layer may also become relatively lighter in some cases. The ears and muzzle are the usual dark spots on a coat. When your dog reaches adulthood and begins to shed its puppy coat, the lighter shade will mature into the desired color. The rarest Bernedoodle coat colors in Bernedoodles are solid black, solid white, the sable pattern, the phantom pattern, the merle pattern, and the black and white variety. Poodles come in a wide range of colors, and this diversity is mainly due to genetics. This is why it is normal for Bernedoodles to go through a color change as they get older. Bernedoodles, like many other Doodles, frequently inherit the fading gene from the Poodle side of their family tree. You can tell if a Bernedoodle puppy has the fading gene by the time they reach adulthood. Most of the time, this happens between 6 and 10 months. This lightning, also known as clearing, is most noticeable in Bernedoodles with dark coats, such as blacks and browns. Fading-gene carriers of the black Bernedoodle breed often cause their coats to lighten and take on a silvery gray or even blue hue. Bernedoodles of bi-colors can experience fading; black dogs can lighten to a silvery gray, and chocolate dogs can lighten to a silvery beige or beige. Bernadoodle coat color has no bearing on temperament or health. However, merle Bernedoodles may have an increased danger of developing some health issues, such as deafness or blindness. This is why two merle Bernedoodles should never be bred together. Conclusion It can be challenging to decide what color coat you want for your Bernedoodle puppy. All Bernedoodles have outstanding personalities in addition to their natural coat colors, which can vary from dog to dog. You ought to know by now that selecting a color you like for your puppy is not as simple. Although a breeder may know the spectrum of colors to expect in a litter, they cannot promise a particular mix of colors. Given that they are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, their coat has a few color variations. Because they come in a variety of colors, the majority of the color variation found in their fur can be credited to their Poodle genes. Do Bernedoodles Change Color? Keep on reading to explore more about why Bernedoodles change color and what to expect as they grow older. Do Bernedoodles Change Colors? Many Bernedoodles will have spots that begin black but end up turning cream. Whatever color they are, the possibility of changing color as they grow is always there. By fading, we imply that their color can transition from dark color to light, for example, from black to grey. It is more difficult to predict what the bicolor and tricolor will fade into, but at roughly six weeks, specialist eyes can generally tell what their shades will ultimately be. When does the color of a Bernedoodle start to change? The coloring on your Bernedoodle determines when they will begin to shift color. Tricolor Bernedoodles having phantom poodle parents, for instance, may begin to fade around six months to a year. A Tricolor Bernedoodles with a sable poodle father, on the contrary, will start fading between the ages of 8 and 14 months. To summarise, the color-changing begins approximately half a year and normally occurs when they are about a year old. Surprisingly, if a Bernedoodle has a non-fading poodle parent, they will retain their color too. How can you determine if your Bernedoodle is going to fade? There are no existing examinations that can accurately tell whether your dog has the fading gene at this time with current medical tech. To decrease fading in the Bernedoodle bloodline, you must identify their genealogy, have parents who do not possess the fading gene and descend from lengthy generations of non-fading poodle ancestors. The simplest method to find out is to directly ask the breeder. They are the ones that know the parents, their colors, and their genetics. Knowing the history of previous puppy litters of the same parents, most breeders can accurately guesstimate what colors your Bernedoodle puppy will end up. Fading occurs in certain situations, although it is so minor that they appear the same overall. This is due to the fact that their coat pattern does not alter. They are also available in a variety of designs. The options are infinite when it comes to picking a Bernedoodle. Genetic factors have a significant role in the color of a dog when it is born and when it becomes a mature dog. Aside from the extremely basic solid colors that are the most common in Bernedoodles, their color variations can be established through generational reproduction. F1 Bernedoodles, the offspring of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, typically appear in colors comparable to the Bernese Mountain Dog, such as: Black and White Bernedoodle Color: The colors black and white Bernedoodles frequently have little white markings on their nose and chest. Occasionally white fur patches appear around their paws, giving the impression that they are wearing boots. Merle Bernedoodle Color: Merle coats are frequently inherited when one parent has the same color or carries a recessive gene. Merle colors vary, but Bernedoodles with red, brown, black, and white spots are common. Merle Bernedoodles will also come in blue, grey, and white. Black Bernedoodle Color: Bernedoodles with all-black coats are rare and hard to locate. A recessive gene present in one or both parents causes a solid black coat. This coat is extremely unusual and is typically present in only one puppy out of a whole breed. The fluffy all-black coat gives a Bernedoodle the appearance of an adorable tiny bear. Tricolor Bernedoodle : The tri-color Bernedoodle is perhaps the most desired color of this breed. People enjoy seeing a multicolored dog. The rest of the body is a mix of darker hues such as black, brown, or apricot. Sable Bernedoodle Color: Bernedoodle puppies with sable coats are produced with a dark brown or solid black coat. This implies that if you chose your dog as a puppy believing they would keep this solid color their whole life, you might be fooled later on. As your Bernedoodle gets older, the sable coat appears, and the solid color fades. Phantom Bernedoodle Color : Bernedoodles with two colors in certain regions of the body are known as phantom-colored Bernedoodles. The color distribution is sometimes comparable to that of other dog breeds, like the Manchester or Yorkie. Chocolate Bernedoodle Color: Chocolate Bernedoodles have a deep chestnut color that is consistent throughout the body. The color is conceivable because one or both parents have a dominant black or silver gene. The chocolate-colored fur of the dog keeps the same shade during his lifetime. Most chocolate Bernedoodles have little spots of other colored hair on their bodies, but they are noticeable throughout puppyhood. How Bernadoodle each color changes? Bernedoodles will change their color as they become older, no matter what color they are. The coats of Bernedoodle puppies go through a fading or retaining period. During the fading phase, the coat also might become rather dull. These stages begin when your Bernedoodle begins to acquire a mature coat. This is also when you will find that color will retain better in some areas of the coat than others. Color retention is especially frequent around the nose and ears of coats. Here are examples of how each color of the coat might change Changes in Sable Color Sable Bernedoodles are born dark, almost black. You can detect if they are sable by the time they are a few days old. The ears, eyes, nose, and behind the tail are the first indicators of a sable Bernedoodle. When sable bernedoodles are six weeks old, the color behind their eyes tells you what color they will fade out to. Around and underneath the eyes of Sable Bernedoodles are frequently lighter brown, cream, or red. Your sable Bernedoodle will very likely fade out to this shade. You can learn more about the changes in Sable Bernedoodles in this guide to Sable Bernedoodles , where I cover literally everything you will need to know about them. Changes in TriColor Bernedoodle Tricolor Bernedoodles could be bred with deep reddish marks or develop with maturity. If your Bernedoodle has the fading gene, the lighter the reddish marks are as a puppy, and the lighter the reddish color will be as they mature. The hair type can also influence whether or not they fade at a young age. Regardless of whether the poodle parent possesses the fading gene, Bernedoodles with straighter coats tend to keep their color better than Bernedoodles with curly coats. Changes in Brindle Bernedoodle Brindle Bernedoodles appear to retain their color regardless of whether the poodle parent possesses the fading gene. The majority of brindles are born with brindle coloring. The colors merge in as the dog grows older and his hair becomes longer. The brindle coloration will remain after the puppy has been shaved. Brindle coloration can turn grey or silver in other breeds. Changes in Phantom Bernedoodle A Bernedoodle with a tricolor phantom fur has predominantly black and red with some white. Phantom Tricolor is one of the most often sought-after coat colors. The black, red, and white patterns on the phantom tricolor will be present at birth. As the dog ages, the hair might blend in, giving the appearance of a phantom Bernedoodle. Phantom Tricolors are not the same as phantoms. Phantom tricolor Bernedoodles include some white, although phantoms are normally only two colors, black and red. Some phantom tricolors will become silver where they were previously black and white. Most phantom tricolor Bernedoodles appear to have excellent color retention. When my Bernedoodle puppy matures, what color will it be? As previously said, your puppy can have a variety of coat colors as they get older. Related Questions Do Bernedoodles have red eyes? Bernedoodles have dark eyes, but red is not a normal, healthy color for them. Red eyes are an indication of infections, allergies, or irritants, so take your dog to the doctor right away if you see them. Do Bernedoodles Hair Change? Because Bernedoodles are a blend of two breeds, determining which coat your puppy will possess is a toss-up. Their coats can fluctuate between the three primary varieties of straight, wavy, and curly coat. Bernedoodles do not possess a double coat. They require frequent maintenance regardless of coat type. Can Bernedoodles have blue eyes? While pups with blue eyes are beautiful, very few of them retain their blue color throughout maturity. Blue eyes often last 3 to 4 months before changing to something darker, most typically brown. This shift can begin as early as 10 weeks of age. Helpful Resources Do Puppies Change color as they grow? Living with a Retriever: Recommendations and Sources Want the best diet for your dog? Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. Frequently Asked Questions: It is rather difficult to guarantee that your Bernedoodle pup will be that one color coat you initially see them. As it is in their genes, it is rather unlikely they will maintain the same color coat. It is not uncommon to see your puppy have a lot of brown and tan tones in their fur but to see a different coat emerge after the first haircut. Some also start as black but turn cream later on. Ultimately, the genetics of the pup determine whether they will fade or not. Do Bernedoodles fade and lose their color? It is believed that any doodle can fade. Since Bernedoodle has Poodle in them, it will have the tendency to fade. The genetics determine if they will fade, so the closer they are to the poodle parent gene, the higher the chances of them fading and losing their color. By fading we mean their color can change from darker to lighter, such as from black to grey. It is a bit trickier to say what the brindle and tricolor will fade into, but usually, at around 6 weeks expert eyes can tell what their final colors will be. The final color and how long it can take to achieve it will be variable due to the color itself and the heritage of the pup. Do Bernedoodles puppies change color? Bernedoodles have a high chance of changing color, even as pups. Around 9 months of age, they will change their coat and so their color as well. If they are of the Sable variant, their color can change or lighten with age. When do Bernedoodles change color? When your Bernedoodle will start to change color depends on the pattern they have. For example, tricolor Bernedoodles with a phantom poodle parent can start to fade later at half to a full year. On the other hand, a Tricolor Bernedoodles with a sable poodle parent will fade at 8 to 14 months. So to generalize, the color-changing starts after half a year and usually happens when they are around a year old or so. Interestingly, if a Berne has a poodle parent that does not fade, they will hold their color as well. How do you tell if your Bernedoodle will fade? If you want to reduce fading in the Bernedoodle genealogy, you have to know their lineage and have parents that have not faded as well as come from long lines of non-fading poodle parents. The easiest way to know is that you can ask your breeder. Since they know the parents, they can tell based on knowing their color genetics. For some cases, the fading happens but it is so minimal that they will look similar overall. This is because their coat pattern does not change. Hopefully, their color is the least of your priorities since they are subject to change and other qualities such a size and temperament are more of importance. Do Bernedoodles turn gray? It does not matter what color your Bernedoodle, they can change colors with age. For Bernedoodles to turn grey, they start out as a black pup. What colors do Bernedoodles come in? For base colors, Bernedoodles come in wonderful shades of black, chocolate brown, red, cream, and tans. However, they have delightful variants of different patterns such as tri-color, bi-colors, and many others. Bi colors: By bi-colors we mean Bernedoodles that have two shades in their wonderful fur. Phantom, Sable, Brindle, Merle are different variants of bi-color Bernedoodles in all their shades. Bi-colored Bernedoodles can be in blacks, browns, creams, and shades near them. Tri-color: Traditionally Bernese Mountain dogs come in the tricolor pattern, which the Bernedoodle inherit. The Tricolor patterns include phantom, sable, and even merle. Usually, a tri-color Bernedoodle is a fluffy canine with black, rust, and white coloring. Basically, they will look very similar to their tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog ancestors. They also have a full white mask or a limited white in them. Here, merle means the pattern in the coat of the dog. Blue merle is a white and gray pattern on a black coat. Basically, this color combination is that of a solid base color with lighter blue, grey, or reddish patches. Sable, on the other hand, is a coat that has black-tipped hairs on the background of any solid color. They have no particular pattern to discern from. Brindle is also known as the tiger-striped pattern. This can be blue-based or red-based. This coloring also becomes more prominent with age. Brindle patterns can be solids, brindles with whites, or brindles with phantom coloring. By phantom, we mean the tricolor Bernedoodle will have black, rust, and white coloring. A phantom tricolor will have a black base coat, tan legs, and minimalistic white on the chest, but they can also be a full white fluffy chest. Do Bernedoodles have red eyes? Bernedoodles have dark eyes, but red is not one of their natural, healthy colors. Red eyes are a sign of conjunctivitis, allergies, or irritants so if you see your beloved canine has it, visit the vet immediately. Can Bernedoodles have blue eyes? Bernedoodles do not usually have blue eyes. Though as puppies they can have a bluish or hazel cast, they change later on as they grow up. The Merle variation of the breed is reported to have blue eyes. But in general, Bernedoodles have dark eyes in the brown and black shade range. Do puppies with blue eyes stay blue? While puppies with blue eyes are stunning, rarely any of them remain blue over time. Usually, the blue eyes stay around for 3 to 4 months and then they change to something darker, commonly brown. This change can start to happen around 10 weeks of age. The Poodle has an infamous curly, non-shedding coat while the Bernese contrastingly has a longhaired straight coat that sheds a lot. No matter what coats they have, they need regular grooming. Their coats can change over time in between the three main types of straight hair , wavy fleece , and curly wool. Also, Bernedoodles do not have a double coat. Bernedoodles are a fascinating breed that are the favorites of many dog owners for how versatile they can be. In a way, they never cease to amaze you with their ability to change from puppies to grown adult dogs, with both their temperament and color coats. Frequently Asked Questions:. But what is it about their coats that make them so special? Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles are known for being a low-shed to no-shed breed. Their minimal shedding makes them a very allergy-friendly breed. Bernedoodle Coat Types Bernedoodle coats can vary in thickness, consistency, and color. In an F1 first generation breeding, you might get a puppy with a coat that looks more similar to a Poodle and get another puppy with a coat just like a Bernese. As a breeder begins to breed this first generation of Bernedoodles with other Bernedoodles, they are able to achieve more consistency and predictable traits shed level, color, size. Their coats can have a various range of colors as well. Some might be black and white while others may be black and brown or even solid black. This coat most resembles the coat of the Bernese. Some may even have a few other colors thrown in here and there. Generally, when an individual is looking to buy a Bernedoodle, the type of coat takes precedence over the coat color. Thicker hair will help them survive cold winters better while also giving them protection from the heat of summer. This is also something aspiring Bernedoodle owners consider when choosing a puppy. Bernedoodles usually come in one of three coat types: straight, wavy and curly. This coat is very free-flowing and often has a kinked or wavy appearance. The curls on this coat are usually tight with a soft texture much like what you would see on a Poodle. Curly coats may still shed, but they shed the hair upon themselves rather than on your floor. Unfortunately, this shedding upon themselves is what makes it necessary for them to be brushed daily and trimmed frequently. The curly coat Bernedoodle is usually the most suitable for owners who have an allergy to dog dander. This usually amounts to times per week. They also need to be professionally groomed every weeks to keep their paws, eyes, and private areas maintained. What About Allergies? Are They Hypoallergenic? No dog is truly non-allergenic. In the case of Bernedoodles, they are allergy-friendly because of their single coat. While all coats types are considered to be allergy-friendly, the curly coat is considered to be ideal for severe allergy sufferers. The reason is that, as stated above, no dog is non-allergenic, and the reason for this is that there is no dog that does not produce an allergic response of some kind. This is what makes allergic people miserable. Every breed of dog carries a different amount of these allergy-provoking proteins. The seborrheic level is the level of oil the dog produces. Certain oily-haired dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers, carry a large amount of these proteins. The less amount of oil a dog has in its skin, the less dander it will produce. Since the poodles are one of the least oily breeds of dog, Doodles and other dogs created by using Poodles are going to be more hypoallergenic and have fewer body odors. Therefore, Bernedoodles are more allergy-friendly. Most dogs have two coats: an undercoat and an overcoat. The undercoat, which is a softer coat, acts as an insulation to keep the dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The overcoat, a slightly more course topcoat, has stiff hairs that shield it from dirt or debris and repel water and moisture. Bernedoodles do not have the two coats. Bernedoodle puppies should be brushed regularly regardless of the coat type, although, curly coats will require brushing a little more frequently. When the Bernedoodle gets about nine months of age, he will start losing the coat a little by little. Related Questions Do Bernedoodles need to be brushed often? Because Bernedoodles shed so little, they should be brushed regularly, but the frequency of brushing can be determined on the type of coat. Curly coats will need to be brushed on an almost daily basis while straight coats can get by with being brushed only a couple of times a week. Do Bernedoodles mat easily like the other Doodle dogs? Bernedoodles do have a tendency to become matted if they are not brushed regularly. This is particularly true with Bernedoodles who have the curly coat. The curlier the coat, the more likely it is to become matted if not brushed. Can coat type be determined through breeding? Coat type absolutely can be determined through breeding. If the breeder is experienced, he or she can determine exactly what kind of a coat the litter will have based on which sire and dam are being used for the breeding and past genetics. This is where F1, F2, F3, and multigenerational breeding comes in handy. Conclusion With so many wonderful dogs out there, one would often wonder why aspiring dog owners would choose a mixed breed dog like the Bernedoodle. Related Posts:. Sit back, close your eyes, and imagine a Bernedoodle in your mind. What do they look like? While that mental image is often accurate, did you know that Bernedoodles can come in a wide variety of coat colors and textures? Also known as flat coat Bernedoodles, these dogs can sometimes be confused for purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs based on their appearance. So, is there anything wrong with this coat texture? Or, would a straight hair Bernedoodle make a great fit in your family? Keep reading to learn all the pros and cons! Can Bernedoodles Have Straight Hair? Although most Bernedoodles have curly hair, many Bernedoodles have straight hair instead! Naturally, some puppies will inherit more traits from one parent breed and some will inherit more from the other. Even from the same litter of Bernedoodles, some puppies may have flat coats similar to that of the Bernese Mountain Dog while others may have curly coats that more closely resemble the Poodle. Genetics can truly be a grab bag! Are Bernedoodles Always Curly? Bernedoodles can have curly hair, straight hair, or even an in-between, wavy coat! That being said, breeders often strive to produce as many curly haired puppies as possible. This is because curly-haired Bernedoodles are more likely to shed less and be allergy-friendly. This preference by breeders explains why you see many more curly Bernedoodles than those with flat coats. Straight hair is one of the traits a Bernedoodle puppy can inherit from their Bernese Mountain Dog lineage. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with flat coat Bernedoodles, puppies with curly coats tend to be more popular. Many people want the appearance and personality traits of a Bernese Mountain Dog with the allergy-friendly coat of the Poodle. As such, breeders typically strive for their puppies to inherit a curly coat. Reputable breeders will perform extensive genetic testing and familiarize themselves with the lineage of the parents to give them the best chance at this. However, there are different generations to choose from which can increase or decrease your odds of having a flat coat Bernedoodle. Photo courtesy of superdogmoose on Instagram. Check out this article that explains everything you need to know about Bernedoodle generations! What you should know for now is that the more Bernese Mountain Dog DNA your puppy has, the more likely they are to have straight hair. This is extremely uncommon, however. Are Straight Hair Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic? While no Bernedoodles are guaranteed to be completely hypoallergenic , straight haired Bernedoodles are far more likely to bother allergy sufferers than their curly haired counterparts. As you can see in the table we discussed earlier, these generations have the lowest theoretical percentage of Bernese Mountain Dog DNA. While this shedding might not be as bad as a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog, it will probably still be a significant amount. Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush : Brushing your dog regularly can help prevent hair from getting all over your house. This brush is the top of its class.

Spayed or Neutered, Story Meet Fae, the one-of-a-kind female dog who's sure to steal your heart! With her unique appearance and a touch of aloofness, Fae is a gem waiting to be discovered. She might be unsure of how to act at times, but her default mode is to lay down and charm you. Fae's past as a stray remains a mystery, but what we do know is that she's a cuddler who can't help but make the cutest snorting noises when excited. Fae's journey at the shelter has revealed her playful side, particularly with other energetic dogs. She enjoys engaging in rough play, making her a perfect match for companions who share her lively style. While Fae occasionally jumps with enthusiasm in her kennel, she's a breeze to leash and has a mild reactivity when walking around other dogs. She's got basic commands down pat-sit, down-and takes treats gently. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times. If you're interested in learning more about Fae, please reach out to our Volunteer Matchmakers at wcac. For the complete list please see our List of Boxer Breeders page. Purchasing a boxer puppy in North Carolina directly from a breeder can be expensive; however, it is also the best way to ensure that you are getting an animal that has been raised with proper care. Some breeders do not have the right facilities needed to raise healthy dogs and oftentimes these animals may be sickly or lack proper socialization skills due to improper care during development. What Are The Extra Costs? There are very few extra costs associated with owning a Boxer in North Carolina outside of routine vet visits, food, and other supplies that your new pet will need in order to live comfortably. A responsible breeder will typically keep all of their breeding dogs inside of their home and raise them with love and attention. They should also be able to tell you about their history; including any titles that either parent might have earned. A good breeder will give you health guarantees for your new pet as well as plenty of information on how to properly take care of your Boxer throughout its life. Responsible Boxer Breeders will typically not sell puppies to people who plan on leaving them outdoors or alone for long periods of time without supervision because it is important for them to receive plenty of attention while they are young in order for them to grow up healthy and happy. This will give you a chance to learn as much as possible about any sire and dam as well as the environment that they were raised in. Visiting your breeder will also give you a chance to see their home and how they keep their dogs. This will give you a better idea of what type of environment your puppy is coming from and if the breeder is someone that has invested time into raising healthy puppies. You should be able to tell if someone is being honest with you or not from how they answer your questions and whether or not they seem knowledgeable about the breed itself. A good breeder should be willing and able to help you decide what puppy would best suit your lifestyle and family needs, which can only be done if they know everything about you. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in North Carolina It is a good idea to always ask for references from your breeder or anyone who has purchased a puppy from them in the past. If they have any, you should be able to get in contact with at least one person who can tell you about how their experience was with the breeder and whether or not they were satisfied with the way that everything was handled. If you cannot find any references, then this is something that should raise a red flag and may cause you to reevaluate why there are no people willing and able to speak on their behalf. Not having references does not necessarily mean that someone is a bad breeder; however, it does mean that you should take the time to dig a little deeper. A responsible breeder will usually have plenty of satisfied buyers that are willing to share their information about the transaction with future potential owners because it helps ensure that the people they are selling their puppies to will be good homes. Meeting past customers will also give you an idea of how the breeder interacts with their buyers and if they are willing to allow them to ask questions before, during, and after the sale. A good breeder will not only have a veterinarian that they trust and depend on to take care of their dogs, but they will also be willing and able to share the information about them with you. It is extremely important to find out how often your breeder takes their dogs to see a vet because this can also give you an idea as to just how much attention they pay towards making sure that they stay healthy and happy. If someone cannot afford proper veterinary care then breeding these animals should be A Reputable North Carolina Boxer Breeder Will Ask About Your Living Situation Most breeders want to make sure that their puppies are going into a loving home where each one can thrive and receive all of the attention it deserves. You may find yourself at the receiving end of a lot of questions from your breeder which is perfectly normal. You can usually find this information on their website or by calling your local department of agriculture. Look out for red flags when dealing with an unethical breeder in North Carolina; these may include: Claiming that their lineage is rare or includes show-quality dogs without any proof. Lack of Health Certificates Provided. Constantly being asked to pay a higher price after you have already committed. This may also happen if your breeder tries to do business over the phone and refuses to provide any documentation at first. Refusing to provide their contact information, address, or name. Take the time necessary when looking at boxers in NC that will make sure that their lineage is healthy and well taken care of. If your breeder cannot provide you with any information pertaining to potential health problems then this is not someone you should do business with. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy There are a number of things you will want to consider preparing for before your boxer is set to arrive. First, make sure you stock up on all of the necessary supplies like food and water bowls, toys, treats, bedding, etc. Remember; puppies tend to chew on everything so make sure you keep important documents like remote controls and cell phones out of reach or else they might end up getting destroyed. Puppies also love leather; if given the opportunity they will start chewing away at your furniture corners which will make for a mess to clean up. Potty Training Your New Boxer Puppy Training your boxer to go potty outside will get easier with time; this is one of the most important things you can do when raising your new pup. Remember, patience is key when training any dog; it can be frustrating at times, but you should never hit or otherwise punish your puppy for having an accident. This will only make them more afraid of you and afraid to go near their potty areas in the future. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We are accepting deposits on this and future litters due to the high demand for puppies from our gorgeous and health boxers. Please contact me with any questions or to reserve your puppy! We are breeders of Champion bloodline boxers with European lineage. We are a small breeding facility and all our puppies are raised inside our home. We offer a health guarantee, vet exam, puppy kit and gift bag with essentials. Our puppies tails are docked and dewclaws removed by a licensed veterinarian. We start house training at 5 weeks of age and socializing from birth. Our pups are socialized with children, cats, other dogs and tons of people. We welcome visitors to our facility and enjoy introducing them to our dogs and puppies. Our puppies are always up to date on shots and get frequent worming to keep them happy and healthy. We offer delivery to select areas for a fee. We would actually drive the puppy to you for the same fee in areas that driving is a feasible option. Our puppies come with full unlimited AKC registration so if you decided to breed or show your puppy you would have that option. Most breeders do not give unlimited registration with their puppies. They come from well socialized parents with excellent temperaments. Our puppies stay in our puppy house from birth with their Mom until they are placed in their new homes not in an outside kennel and are cared for by our Veterinarian medically. We have references available via phone from former customers for your convenience. Please feel free to ask any other questions or ask for more photos of our puppies. Thank you for your interest. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Britlyn Boxers. Home robert babybullboxers. We have always had boxers in our lives and have bred high quality Champion bloodline for 33 years now. We breed out of love for boxers. All our boxers are fully health tested and DNA certified. All our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. We do all we can to provide our boxer owners with a great companion. Always keep things real! We put a lot of time and effort into our boxer puppies, because it is simply the right thing to do. Our breeding program is all about quality. We focus on impressive qualities for potential improvement in our breeding program. Raising boxer puppies is no walk in the park. It takes a lot of hard work, love and care. We believe that a boxer is just as big a part of the family as anyone else. We meet the families and try to form a relationship with our boxer puppy owners for life. We love to receive photos and to hear how our puppies are doing and will always be an available point of contact for all our puppy owners. Contact us for more information or questions. All boxer puppies are raised with other boxers and are well socialized. All boxer puppies come with Champion bloodlines pedigree, tails docked, dewclaws removed, dewormed, first vaccinations, AKC registration and a Vet Health Certificate before they go to their new homes. You will not find a more loyal and loving companion for your family than the boxer. Our puppy application is very easy to fill out and puts you one step closer to the puppy of your dreams.

Close share Copy link Dog paralysis occurs as a result of a disruption in communication between the spinal cord and the brain. Sometimes, paralysis in dogs causes total immobility, while other times the dog paralysis may only be partial. This article was inspired by our reader comments. Just to let you know that we pay attention to every comment you leave at the end, or your responses via email - we love it when you engage with us. That said, I will now set out below one Real-Life incident that may help to set the scene for the rest of this piece. Allison: "I woke up at am and my french bulldog was suddenly paralyzed in the hind legs. I had noticed that for about 3 months she would sometimes slip when running. Until this morning she was active and normal. She is not drinking but will take treats. She urinated and defecated at this morning but has not since. Is it okay for me to wait until tomorrow morning to take her to our regular vet? It will cost 3 times the price to take her to the Vet emergency clinic. If I decide to wait until morning and she does not urinate should I try to express the bladder myself? Justin: "Thanks for the question. Allow me to ask you a few questions so I can better assist you. Is she able to move her back legs at all? Pinch her toes really hard to elicit pain. Does she pull the leg back? Does she turn her head, growl, whine, like it hurts? Allison: "She could feel me pinching she drew back her leg slightly.Justin: "Thanks for the information. It's good that she still has pain perception in her back legs. She most likely has a disc that has prolapsed and is placing pressure on her spinal cord. I would recommend you take her to the emergency vet right away. They can take an x-ray to confirm the diagnosis and start her on appropriate meds. If she does have a prolapsed disc, they will place her on anti-inflammatories, pain meds, and muscle relaxers. If you elect not to take her in, keep her as quiet as possible. Keep her in a cage to limit her mobility. Pinch her toes once every 12 hours. If you are experienced in expressing bladders, you can do this every 8 hours to give her relief. Otherwise, I wouldn't attempt it without proper instruction. I hope this helps. I work from home and can give any care needed. What kind of costs and care may I be facing? Justin: "If there hasn't been any permanent damage to her spinal cord, once the swelling decreases she should start walking again. However, she may always have some neurologic deficit to her hind legs. To what extent is impossible to predict. However, if there is permanent damage she may never be able to walk again. This occurs commonly in some breeds, i. Dachshunds, and carts have been developed to prop up the hind legs, allowing affected animals to get around. These dogs generally need to have their bladders expressed daily, so they do require constant nursing care. However, I am always amazed at how happy these dogs seem, motoring around in their little carts. As far as the cost of surgery, it all depends on what part of the country you live in. Generally, you're looking at between - dollars. So, if you have never had such, you need to keep yourself abreast of some critical information regarding French Bulldog paralysis. Dog paralysis is a scary thing, there are however a lot of things you can still do to cater for your Frenchie should things go south. Read on to also learn a handful of preventive measures to keep your Frenchie save. Tetraplegia causes a complete inability to move any of his four legs. Paraplegia: This type of paralysis causes the dog the inability to move his hind legs. Paresis: Is a type of dog paralysis that causes restricted movement in dogs. Paresis still allows the ability to move but great difficulty. The uneasy movement usually causes them great pain. One of the worst mistakes a French Bulldog owner would make is ignoring signs of dog paralysis earlier in their development until it becomes an emergency. Sometimes, it may be due to the fact that the Frenchie Mom or Dad actually does not know the signs or symptoms of paralysis in dogs. So, let's look at a few things you can look out for to ascertain whether your Frenchie pet might have an impending case of Paralysis. Signs of French Bulldog Paralysis: Refusing to stand up or move his legs Dragging his hind legs while walking with the front legs Difficulty moving around Experiencing unusual pain in the neck, spine or legs Inability to control urination or bowel movements Constipation It goes without saying that some of these symptoms are things you may never know about if you didn't engage in periodic check-up on your Frenchie. For instance, when you are playing with your French Bulldog, chances are you may easily identify a pain point. That said, we believe that prevention is better than cure. Hence, if you knew what causes Paralysis in French Bulldogs, you may stand a better chance of ensuring that it didn't happen to your Frenchie in the first place. Let's look at some medical and environmental causes of French Bulldog Paralysis. Tick Bites: This might be a shocker to you; like, how could Tick bites paralyze a dog? Unfortunately, research shows that Tick Bites are one of the most common and indeed the leading cause of Paralysis in dogs. One of the harmful substances that Ticks inject in Dogs through bites is called Neurotoxins. Neurotoxins are an extensive class of exogenous chemical neurological insults that can adversely affect functions in both developing and mature nervous tissues. When ticks bite your Frenchie, they inject this harmful chemical into the bloodstream of the dog causing neuron paralysis, which affects communications between the brain and the nervous system of the dog. Neuron paralysis is responsible for most sudden paralysis in dogs, and when left unattended to the paralysis may spread and become fatal. So, you have to make it a point of duty to keep your dog safe from ticks. Look out for signs that show your dog is being bitten by a tick. Such signs as loss of coordination and vomiting. If you noticed a sudden change in their tone and quality of bark, this is a good sign that your Frenchie has been bitten by a tick. It may interest you to read this article where we addressed wholesomely, the issue of French Bulldogs and Ticks , to get a better insight because symptoms of Tick Bites don't usually manifest immediately, in most cases it may take up to 6 - 9 months after the bite to start dealing with your dog. Stay safe! Congenital Diseases: The second cause of French Bulldog paralysis on our list is Congenital diseases. Congenital diseases are dog health problems such as: Intervertebral Disc Disease, a. IVDD Degenerative Myelopathy, and Fibrocartilaginous Embolism Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the cushioning of intervertebral discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column become ruptured or burst into the spinal cord space. When IVDD occurs, the discs press on the nerves that run through the spinal cord, making it difficult for the dog to walk properly. In the same vein, Degenerative Myelopathy, a. DM also attacks the nerves of your dog. The difference is that DM is common among older dogs and it is something that is rather developed progressively, over time rather than suddenly. It may lead to paralysis especially of the hind legs. Lastly, among the congenital diseases that cause paralysis in dogs; when a small portion of a spinal disc breaks off of your dog's spinal column and blocks blood flow to a portion of his body, this gives rise to the type of paralysis called Fibrocartilaginous Embolism. Fibrocartilaginous Embolism is usually not as serious as the rest. It's always a painless and temporary paralysis that corrects itself within a couple of weeks to its occurrence. Bacterial Infections: There are multiple kinds of bacterial infections. Most common among bacterial infections capable of causing French Bulldog paralysis when they spread to the brain are Meningitis, Distemper, Rabies, among others. Malignant Tumors: If a Tumor develops in your dog's spine, it can lead to paralysis. These Tumors are generally malignant and can have a life-threatening impact. Just like Tick Bites , Malignant Tumors are even slower and progressive in development, resulting in more gradual symptoms rather than sudden paralysis. So, if you take care to monitor these causes and prevent them early enough, your Frenchie Bulldog may never be paralyzed. However, if your French Bulldog is paralyzed, there are a number of Treatment Options you can adopt. Consult a veterinarian to look into the cause of the condition. Depending on the diagnosed cause of the dog's paralysis, usually there are about 5 typical treatment options, they include: Medication. Then you know that one of the common issues these lovely pooches face is hind leg problems. Whether your pup is having difficulty getting up, experiencing joint pain, or having mobility issues, you may be wondering what steps you can take to help. Read on to learn more and get your Frenchie back on their feet in no time! Overview of French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are an incredibly popular breed of dog, known for their friendly and entertaining personalities. They are a medium-sized breed with a unique, wrinkled face and a short, sturdy stature. Frenchies are also notorious for having issues with their hind legs that can cause discomfort or difficulty walking. They make a great companion and pet! There are steps that owners can take to reduce the likelihood of their Frenchie developing hind leg problems. A balanced diet, regular exercise and recognition of any genetic predisposition are all key in preventing these issues. If your pup does experience leg problems, it is important to get them checked out by a vet as soon as possible to ensure they receive the correct treatment. It is important for owners to be aware of the possible causes as well as potential treatments. While genetics can play a role, other factors such as diet and exercise can also have an effect. Being informed and proactive in treatment is key to helping your pup. Hind leg problems can be caused by a variety of factors, such as diet, exercise, genetics and more. Poor nutrition can lead to weak bones and muscles, making it difficult for your pup to stand or walk. It is also important to be aware of any genetic predisposition that may affect your pup, as some breeds are more prone to hind leg problems than others. Diagnosing the root cause of any hind leg problems is the first step to any successful treatment. Be sure to visit your vet so they can assess your pup and suggest the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the issue, treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, supplements or even surgery. Taking preventative measures such as properly feeding your pup and providing them with plenty of exercises can also help reduce the risk of hind leg issues. Causes of Hind Leg Problems French Bulldogs are susceptible to hind leg problems due to their small size and structure. Exercise, and genetics all play a role in the development of hind leg problems. As a Frenchie owner, it is important to understand the causes so that you can take the necessary steps to address any issues that arise. A poor diet can lead to an improper balance of nutrients, which can result in hind leg issues. When developing a diet plan for your Frenchie, it is important to ensure that they are getting the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. Make sure that your Frenchie is getting enough exercise, as lack of physical activity can contribute to the development of hind leg problems. Genetics can play a key role in the development of hind leg issues, as certain breeds are more prone to certain health problems. It is important to be aware of any signs of hind leg problems, such as limping, difficulty rising, or stiffness. If you notice any of these signs in your Frenchie, it is important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis. Your vet will then be able to recommend the best treatment plan for your Frenchie. While non-surgical options, such as physical therapy, can help in certain cases, surgery is often necessary to address more serious problems. Taking preventative measures, such as maintaining a healthy diet and providing plenty of exercise, can help to reduce the chances of hind leg problems developing in the future. Diet It is important to feed your French Bulldog a nutritious and balanced diet in order to avoid hind leg problems. Provide your pup with a diet that includes lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods and fatty treats, as these can lead to weight gain and further issues with the hind legs. If you are unsure about what to feed your Frenchie, your vet can provide advice on what type of food would be best for your pup. Supplements are also important for French Bulldogs, as they can provide extra support for their hind legs. Anything from glucosamine to omega 3 fatty acids can help to keep your Frenchie strong and healthy. Make sure your pup is getting enough exercise and lots of playtime. Exercise can help to alleviate some of the strain on the hind legs and can even help to improve mobility. Exercise Exercise is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for French Bulldogs. Without adequate physical activity, your pup may be more susceptible to hind leg problems. Regular exercise can help your Frenchie stay fit and flexible, reducing the likelihood of developing leg problems. Aim for daily walks or playtime, and consider activities that involve the hind legs, such as running or jumping. Start slow and gradually increase the intensity over time to avoid injury. In addition to daily exercise, make sure you keep your Frenchie at a healthy weight. Monitor their calorie intake and stick to a healthy diet with whole food ingredients. With proper exercise and the right diet, you can help your French Bulldog stay active and healthy for years to come. Genetics Genetics can play an important role in French Bulldog hind leg problems. Research any conditions that are common among the breed and that may be passed down through genetics. Some of these include hip and elbow dysplasia, joint laxity, and lip fold dermatitis, all of which can cause hind leg pain in Frenchies. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is important for any breed, but especially for Frenchies. With a healthy lifestyle and proper care, your French Bulldog can avoid hind leg issues and have a happy, healthy life. The first step is to take your Frenchie to the vet for an exam. Depending on the symptoms, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or CT scans. These tests can help diagnose issues such as luxating patellas loose kneecaps or hip dysplasia. Physical therapy can help improve the range of motion in their hips and legs, as well as strengthen the muscles that support them. You can also look into using supportive devices such as doggles or pet ramps to help your pup move around easier. When it comes to exercise, make sure to keep it gentle and provide plenty of breaks. This will help your Frenchie get the exercise they need without overworking their joints. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Frenchie stays healthy and happy. Visit the Vet Visiting the vet is the first step to diagnosing and treating any problems your French Bulldog may have with their hind legs. The vet can always provide tips on the best ways to keep your Frenchie fit and healthy, which can help prevent hind leg issues in the first place. See also How To Make Dog's Nails Less Sharp [5 Genius Ideas] What to Expect When you visit the vet, they will likely do a physical examination on your Frenchie to get an idea of their behavior, overall health, and any potential underlying issues. Your vet may also check their eyes, ears, and gums to identify any potential issues. They may also use a small amount of anesthesia to be sure that there is no discomfort or pain when they examine your pup. Your vet might also recommend additional tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to help them determine the exact cause of the hind leg problem. Your vet may suggest a blood test to help identify any underlying medical issues that could be contributing to the hind leg problems. Diagnostic Tests If your French Bulldog is having hind leg issues, you should have them evaluated by a veterinarian. This will help diagnose the underlying cause of the problem and determine the best course of treatment. During the visit, your vet may use a combination of physical examination, X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan to evaluate your pup. All of these tests help your veterinarian identify any underlying issues and rule out other possible causes. They may run tests to check for infection or injury. It is important to keep your Frenchie as comfortable as possible during the testing process. A specialized orthopedic surgeon may be consulted to discuss possible surgical interventions depending on the severity of the issue. The best way to prevent your Frenchie from experiencing hind leg issues is to ensure they are eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise. Making sure they get regular check-ups with their veterinarian can help catch any issues early on and prevent further complications. Treating Hind Leg Problems When it comes to treating hind leg problems in French Bulldogs, the first step is to visit your trusted veterinarian. During the visit, your vet will examine your pup and may run tests to diagnose the problem. Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may suggest either non-surgical or surgical options for treatment. For non-surgical options, your vet may recommend changes in diet, exercise, and possibly physical therapy. They should get regular exercise and physical therapy to help with the flexibility and strength of their limbs. Make sure to feed your pup a well-balanced diet with lots of minerals and vitamins. By taking these steps, you can help keep your pup healthy and happy. Non-Surgical Options Non-surgical options are often the first course of action for treating hind leg problems in French Bulldogs. There are many joint supplements on the market that can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Hydrotherapy is another great, non-surgical solution for helping your pup strengthen their legs. This can include swimming or walking in shallow water, which provides a low-impact form of exercise that also helps reduce pain and inflammation. You should also make sure that your pup is getting the right amount of nutrition, as too much or too little can weaken their bones and muscles. A balanced diet with plenty of calcium can help keep their bones and muscles healthy. Surgical Options Surgical options for treating hind leg problems in French Bulldogs may be necessary in some cases. Depending on the severity and nature of the hind leg problem, your vet may recommend surgery. Surgical options can range from removing a tumor or cyst to correcting anatomical problems such as luxating patella and hip dysplasia. Discussing the risks and benefits of major surgery with your veterinarian is essential. French Bulldog owners should have an open dialogue with their veterinarian and be sure to ask plenty of questions. Prevention To prevent hind leg problems in your French Bulldog, it is important to pay attention to both diet and exercise. Make sure to only feed your pup high-quality food and consult with your veterinarian about the right nutrition for your dog. Depending on their age, your Frenchie will need around 30 minutes a day of moderate activity, such as walking or running. Lifestyle is also a factor in avoiding hind leg problems in your French Bulldog. If your pup spends a lot of time indoors or in too small of a space, it can lead to hind leg issues over time. Make sure they have access to plenty of space to run, play, and explore. If your pup is a senior, it is especially important to make sure they are getting enough physical activity. If you notice that your pup is having trouble with their hind legs, it could be an indication of a medical issue. With the right diet, exercise, and lifestyle, you can help keep your Frenchie healthy for years to come. Poor nutrition can lead to hind leg problems. Make sure your Frenchie is eating a high-quality food that contains enough protein, vitamins and minerals. Avoid overfeeding your pup, as excess weight can put additional strain on their hind legs. Knowing the right amount of food and snacks to give your pup is very important for their health. Another important part of their diet is staying hydrated. Make sure your pup has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Dehydration can cause joint pain and inflammation, and lead to further hind leg problems. Regularly checking their water levels and refilling the bowl can help your pup stay hydrated and healthy. French Bulldogs are prone to obesity. Too much body weight can put additional strain on their joints and aggravate any existing hind leg problems. Know the right amount of food and snacks to give your pup and keep them active with regular exercise regimes to ensure they stay fit and healthy. Aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise a day for your Frenchie. Jogging, and swimming are all great activities for Frenchies — just make sure to take it slow and gradually increase the intensity. A gentle warm-up before any activity is also a good idea. Reaching a healthy weight can also help prevent hind leg problems. Be sure to talk to your vet about any health concerns that arise. Your vet is the best person to consult if your Frenchie experiences signs of a hind leg problem. They can suggest changes in exercise, diet, and supplements to help keep your Frenchie healthy. While prevention is always best, early detection is the key to successful treatment. If you notice any sign of a hind leg problem such as limping, difficulty climbing stairs, or hopping on one leg, be sure to get your Frenchie to the vet as soon as possible. Regular vet visits and check-ups are also a great way to keep your Frenchie in optimum health. Post Views: .As with any breed, French bulldogs are predisposed to getting certain diseases. For example, many German shepherds are more likely to have hip problems. Cocker spaniels are more likely to get ear infections. Dachshunds are known for developing back problems such as intervertebral disc disease IVDD. French bulldogs have grown immensely in popularity over the last few years and are quickly becoming known for also developing intervertebral disc disease. In fact, some weeks I see more French bulldogs than I do dachshunds. Since IVDD is so common in French bulldogs, it can come on suddenly and can cause permanent inability to use the legs. Just like in people, the neck and back are made up of multiple bones lined up in a row. These bones are called vertebrae. The vertebrae surround and protect the spinal cord, which transmits information from the brain to the legs and from the legs back to the brain. In between each pair of vertebrae is an intervertebral disc that is shaped like a jelly donut. The disc has an inner jelly part and an outer donut part. Intervertebral discs act as spacers and cushions between the bones of the neck and back. In certain breeds, including the French bulldog, the jelly inside part of the disc can come out of the donut at high speed. When this happens, it hits the spinal cord, causing bruising and swelling. Additionally, it compresses the spinal cord. Symptoms of IVDD depend on where the disc problem is neck versus back and how severe the spinal cord injury is. Walking wobbly or drunk in all four legs. Sometimes French bulldogs may drag the toenails or occasionally stumble and fall in the limbs. Unable to walk in all four legs. Symptoms of a slipped disc in the back may include from mildest to more severe : Back pain, tense belly, not wanting to eat, crying when picked up and reluctance to jump. Walking wobbly or drunk in the rear limbs. They may scuff the toes or criss-cross the limbs. Unable to walk in the rear limbs, dragging of the rear limbs. While IVDD is the most common cause of spinal injury in dogs, there are other diseases that can look very similar. French bulldogs can develop spinal tumors, meningitis, infections, malformations and others. Additionally, French bulldogs tend to get worse faster than other breeds and are more likely to develop a life-threatening complication called myelomalacia explained below. For those reasons, we tend to recommend testing a little more proactively than we do in other breeds. An experienced neurologist can examine your pet, determine where the problem is, what the severity is, list the most likely cause and recommend the best course of action. Radiographs X-rays alone cannot diagnose IVDD, although it is useful in looking for other causes such as bony tumors, broken bones or bone infections. Myelography is an older test that is not recommended since it is more invasive and complications can arise. In general, there are two ways to treat IVDD. Crate Rest and Medication The first treatment option is crate rest and medications anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications, muscle relaxants, etc. This is appropriate for dogs with mild signs pain only or mild wobbliness when they walk. Crate rest involves being confined to a small crate approximately 3 x 4 feet for the average-sized French bulldog. Time outside of the crate should be limited to short walks on a leash and harness for minutes. Surgery The second treatment option is surgery. This is appropriate for dogs that are more severely affected difficulty walking, unable to walk , dogs with severe pain, dogs where the symptoms are getting worse despite rest and medications, or dog where the symptoms improve but come back later. There are a handful of factors that determine the likelihood of success. Diagnosis The first factor is getting a diagnosis. Since many other diseases can look like IVDD, confirming a diagnosis as opposed to just suspecting based on symptoms and X-rays is the most important step in success. Severity of Symptoms The second factor is the severity of symptoms. Dogs that have mild symptoms pain only, walking but wobbly have a higher success rate than dogs that have more severe symptoms inability to feel the limbs. Treatment Option The third factor is which treatment option is selected. However, some dogs that are severely affected unable to move or unable to feel may still have some residual weakness or incoordination. The main disadvantages are the need for anesthesia and the costs associated with MRI and surgery. Unfortunately, dogs that slip one disc are at risk for slipping another one at some point in their life. At Southeast Veterinary Neurology, we perform a preventative procedure on all French bulldogs that elect surgery for their disc herniation. What is Myelomalacia? Myelomalacia is a life-threating complication of IVDD. It occurs in dogs that are unable to move and feel the rear limbs. In some dogs, when the slipped disc injures the spinal cord, it can cause a chain reaction of progressive damage to the spinal cord that creeps down the spinal cord to the tail and up the spinal cord toward the front legs. As it creeps forward, the front legs become weak and then it becomes difficult for the dog to breathe. These symptoms can happen anywhere within the first week of losing feeling in the rear limbs. French bulldogs are much more likely to develop myelomalacia than other breeds. French bulldogs are incredibly popular and are truly part of the family. Since this disease is so common and is so devastating, we want to inform as many people as possible. Southeast Veterinary Neurology employs six board-certified neurologists and a team of experts that only treat neurological conditions. However, it is possible for IVDD to affect only one back leg, if the ruptured disc material is pressing on a nerve root. IVDD is commonly referred to as a ruptured, herniated, bulging, or slipped disc. It can happen to any dog, but chondrodystrophic short-legged breeds, like dachshunds and French bulldogs, are the most predisposed. Many dogs experience sudden lameness from a ruptured disc following physical activity, but it is not unusual for a dog to collapse from IVDD with no warning. FCE occurs when a piece of fibrocartilage from an intervertebral disc breaks out into the bloodstream and wedges itself into a blood vessel, blocking blood flow to the spinal cord. In most cases, symptoms associated with FCE are limited to one side of the body. And since FCE can occur mid-back, it is quite possible for only one back leg to be affected. FCE is often referred to as a spinal cord stroke. It can happen to any dog, but spinal cord strokes are frequently seen in middle-aged, large-breed dogs and miniature schnauzers. FCE usually occurs during exercise or mild trauma, such as landing awkwardly after jumping. Although dogs may cry out in pain, spinal cord strokes are not painful after the initial injury. Fortunately, the condition is not progressive, and prognosis is generally excellent. The difference is that it is only a small amount of healthy, hydrated disc material, so it does not compress the spinal cord. Instead, it shoots out at a high speed, causing a serious concussive injury to the spinal cord, like bruising, swelling, or bleeding. The best imaging technique for looking at the spinal cord is MRI , because it can distinguish between compression, obstruction, contusion, and a tumor. MRI can also help predict prognosis for the return of function, based on the size of the affected area and the severity of the damage. Although all four of these conditions have similar symptoms, they have very different treatment protocols. For example, IVDD is treated surgically or with strict crate rest and targeted medications, while FCE is treated with immediate and aggressive rehabilitation therapy. Therefore, it is critical to achieve an accurate diagnosis from a veterinary neurologist. Are They Experiencing Pain? If your pup is visibly uncomfortable or yelping, they need to be seen by a vet as soon as possible. The signs of chronic pain might not always be pronounced. For example, dogs suffering from arthritis might not vocalize but are considerably painful. Which Feet And How Severe? Are all four limbs affected, or is it only one limb? The most common causes of dragging feet in French Bulldogs will often start as dragging either both or one of the hind legs. All The Time If your Frenchie seems to be dragging their feet all the time, or if it appears to have progressed to the point of them dragging their feet all of the time, you need to seek vet advice urgently. During or After Exercise Abnormal gait during or after exercise is more commonly associated with muscle and joint problems. Mild soreness or walking slightly stiff after exercise is usually not an urgent cause of concern, and you might just want to let your Frenchie take it easy for a few days. However, if they are very painful, if the symptoms seem to progress, or if you notice visible swelling, they need to be seen by a vet soon. To read more on how Frenchies cope with running, check out the article here. Stiffness for some time after getting up is commonly associated with degenerative joint conditions such as arthritis, but some muscle conditions can have a similar presentation. If your dog seems unable to put their feet in an upright position normally, they lack proprioception. This is usually a reliable indicator that there is a neurological cause. Muscle and joint problems usually do not cause loss of proprioception, and you might find that your dog is dragging their feet or scuffing their toenails, but when testing proprioception, it is normal. This may be due to them wanting to avoid bending painful joints. This video demonstrates how to test proprioception. The test should be repeated a few times on each limb to ensure that you get a repeatable result. If you see your dog crossing over limbs while walking or seem unable to walk in a straight line straight similar to someone who had a drink too many , it is usually an indication of neurological disease. Give your pup a good look over, starting from their toes and working your way up their legs and back. Remember to check under their belly as well. Are there any new bumps or swellings? How do the two front and two back legs compare with each other? If you notice that your Frenchie started dragging their feet, you need to make the soonest available appointment at your vet. If your Frenchie seems to be in pain or the conditions are rapidly progressing to difficulty standing on their hind feet, you need to get an emergency appointment at the vet. When the spinal cord is impinged, it prevents the normal transmission of nerve signals up and down the spinal cord. So the first sign we see when the spinal cord is affected is neurological deficits in the hind legs. This may progress to complete hind leg paralysis and, depending on which part of the spinal cord is affected, may lead to other signs such as fecal and urinary incontinence or complete tetraplegia. The spinal cord does not have pain receptors, but the nerves branching off the cord have pain receptors. Therefore, the level of pain associated with IVDD will vary depending on which area of the spinal cord is affected and the degree to which peripheral nerves are involved. IVDD has a very high genetic correlation, meaning that dogs that carry a specific genetic trait linked to chondrodystrophy dogs with shorter legs such as dachshunds, bassets, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and even Beagles. There are two general routes to take when treating IVDD, but both involve strict movement restriction for anything from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity. The second is surgery, where the herniated disc material is physically removed, and the pressure on the spinal cord is relieved. Below are two videos by board-certified veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon Dr. James Cellini. In the first video, he gives valuable information on IVDD. References Conte, A. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, [online] 34 03 , pp. Screw tail and tail fold pyoderma -medical and surgical updates. Vertebral Malformations in French Bulldogs. PLoS Genet 14 12 : e.Demography and disorders of the French Bulldog population under primary veterinary care in the UK in .Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, [online] 5 1. Packer, R. A potential constraint to improving canine welfare. Animal Welfare, [online] 21 1 , pp. Penderis, J. Congenital vertebral abnormalities associated with screw tail conformation. Results of a structured preoperative owner questionnaire. The Veterinary Journal, [online] 3 , pp. Annerien de Villiers Dr. Annerien de Villiers graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Pretoria in .She has since worked full-time in clinical practice tending to all kinds of companion animals in general practice. Serving the human-animal bond with care and compassion and making accurate information accessible to pet owners is at the heart of her driving force as a veterinarian. Recent Posts. It was bred as a companion animal in Great Britain and France in the 19th century. Your Frenchie loves to socialize, and probably follows you around the house. Like all dog breeds, Frenchies are more susceptible to certain diseases than other breeds. Your Frenchie is more likely than other dogs to develop these health conditions. Respiratory Problems in French Bulldogs Frenchies are brachycephalic. They can struggle with breathing because of the shape of their heads. Brachycephalic dogs have smaller airways than other dogs. They have a hard time cooling down on a hot day or after exercise; dogs cool down by panting, and brachycephalic dogs struggle to do so. Shi Tzus, Boston Terriers, and Pugs are other examples of brachycephalic breeds. Brachycephalic dogs favor breathing through their mouth, instead of their nose. All Frenchies are brachycephalic, but some have more severe cases than others. Dogs with severe brachycephaly sometimes require surgery to open their airways. If your dog has trouble exercising, experiences fainting spells, or is lethargic, they might suffer from this inflammation. Degenerative Myelopathy in French Bulldogs Degenerative myelopathy is a spinal nerve disease. They might eventually struggle to control their bowels. Your Frenchie might start to lose muscle mass and have trouble standing. Eventually, your dog might become paralyzed. Since Frenchies love to socialize, this disease can really hold them back. They like to listen to your voice and spend time sitting near you. A dog with degenerative myelopathy might struggle to socialize. They will have a hard time getting around, and will struggle to climb furniture or stairs. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, but it can be managed. Kinesiology tape can help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The tape can restore some feeling and circulation to affected areas. Partially paralyzed Frenchies also might benefit from a wheelchair. Custom-built dog wheelchairs like the ones we build at K9 Carts can make an animal with degenerative myelopathy much more comfortable. Back Problems and Herniated Discs in French Bulldogs Frenchies are uniquely susceptible to back problems, like herniated discs. Since Frenchies were bred to have short back legs and curled tails, their spines can sometimes be defective at birth. Dogs have cushions, or discs, that separate their vertebrae from each other. In the worst cases, slipped discs can cause some degree of paralysis. A K9 Carts custom-built dog wheelchair can help them hang out with other dogs—and you. If you think your dog has any of these diseases, consult a professional as soon as you can.

Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Our Goals To adopt companion animals into loving homes. To evaluate the temperament of each dog to determine its suitability to his or her new adoptive family. To reinforce basic training, socialization and house manners. To provide needed medical care and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are received for all adoptable dogs, including spay and neuter. To promote education about responsible pet ownership, including the spaying and neutering of pets, and the humane and respectful treatment of all animals. To encourage responsible action to reunite lost pets with their owners. To establish a network of foster homes working to ensure comfort and assistance of all German Shepherd Dogs in need. When each dog leaves our care, it is our goal that they go to a home where they: Are loved as a member of the family. Are well cared for. Are receiving the proper mental and physical stimulation. Are receiving the daily interaction and affection they need. Whether it's medical or boarding bills, food, toys, treats, crates, supplements, special supply needs, or surgery, every penny is used for them. No amount is too small. Won't you please consider either a one-time donation or a monthly sponsorship. We and the dogs will thank you, plus it is tax-deductible! Keep checking back. German Shepherds: Family Protection Dogs Available German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, loyal, and physically gifted animals, making them an ideal. Our adult German shepherds are excellent with families and can be used for home protection or good family pets. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. We have over 30 years of experience in the proper breeding, care. We have a wide range of high-quality adult German Shepherds for sale that can meet your needs and provide you with the perfect dog for training, shows, or companionship. At Nevada Haus we have adult German Shepherd dogs for sale that are either older, retired, German Shepherd studs or German Shepherd breeding females that are available. Zauberberg Kennels offers adult German Shepherds that are partially- or completely trained. We also have German Shepherd Puppies available here. Klopotnica — A Village Cluster. Adult German Shepherd Dogs for Sale. A National Breed Club Parent Club is a national organization that is dedicated to the preservation, protection and advancement of a dog breed. Please visit our Puppies page for sale page. We have non titled young adults and older titled German imports. Am I limited to local litters with Uptown Puppies? AKC registered german shepherd young adult for sale. Adult, Purebred German Shepherds for Sale. Older puppies and Adults for Sale. Select multiple PDF files and merge them in seconds. The more information you can provide, the. Adult German Shepherd for Sale. Mittelwest German Shepherds. Purebred German Shepherds. To receive alerts when we have a German Shepherd Dog available, please email us at [email protected] and we would be happy to keep you informed of available adult dogs. German Shepherd For Sale in Massachusetts .Shyness runs in certain GSD lines, and you want to. Find German shepherds for sale in Owatonna, MN and surrounding areas Companionship comes in many forms, but none better than a loyal dog. View the available titled trained adult male and female German Shepherds from our elite kennel at the links below or contact Nobleheim for information on trained imports straight from Germany through our contracts with top German breeders. IIllinois German Shepherd Breeder. Adult German Shepherds available for sale. German Shepherds for Sale in Florida. We are a trusted professional purebred German Shepherd breeder. After adoption we will coordinate an appointment at NW spay and neuter under Casa Dog. Serving Florida with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Florida. Each adult, purebred German Shepherd comes with a complete pedigree, shot history, health certificate, and an AKC registration. We are downsizing our Kennel and need to place at least 1 male and 4 female adult. The maximum number of adult cows on the farm amounted to pieces. Stay tuned for updates on these dogs. I travel too often for work and can no » Read more ». We also import, and train working line German Shepherds. Klopotnica is a small village which, for most of its existence, had fewer than inhabitants. We present them to you with the pride of parenthood and confidence in their ability to perform. This combination is perfectly geared towards family, sport and guardian. It recently was made part of the larger adjacent village of Pielgrzymka. Females Available. We are an elite animal boarding kennel for over 20 years and have been breeding German Shepherds for over 35 years. We are always importing dogs when we go to the shows in Germany, or bring females pregnant from the best producers in Germany. She would rather get belly rubs in the morning than » Read more ». We are one of the most trusted sources of high-quality adult German Shepherds for sale and we provide reputably bred dogs to people around the USA. German Shepherds For Sale in Massachusetts. Dorr, MI Phone Email kolendakennels yahoo. We are one of the most trusted sources of. Adult German Shepherds For Sale. Vom Dortmunder German Shepherds. Check out our available German Shepherd puppy litters, adult German Shepherd Dogs for sale and recent arrivals to the Dortmunder home. Contact for more info! Misty Ridge also sells adult German Shepherds. Adult German Shepherd for Sale Sorry we have no adults at this time but please check back. If people had hearts like German Shepherds, the world would be full of love, loyalty, and head tilting. An adult dog is perfect for families that want a new pet, but would rather not raise a puppy. German Shepherd Dog in Ontario - We are expecting absolute beauty, strong medium drive puppies from this litter. All of our adult German Shepherds are: Leash trained Up-to-date on shots Socialized Health guaranteed ; Visit our adult German Shepherd page for availability, or inquire with us to learn more about older GSDs for sale. Matt, Ben, our guide Sam, and Leslie on the summit of Mt. All dogs shown here are backed up by our warranties and the. Visit our site to see our currently available gorgeous adult female German Shepherd dogs for sale by Mittelwest, world wide availability! Call Us Today At Home. Check the current conditions for Bekasi Selatan, West Java, Indonesia for the day ahead, with radar, hourly, and up to the minute forecasts. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. The farm is offered for sale without machines and without animals. Meet your new German. Visiting the German shepherd puppies for sale will give you a lot of insight before you make the final decision on your purchase. Kolenda Kennels German Shepherd Breeders .Some of these German Shepherd dogs for sale are still in Germany. Adult German Shepherds for Sale. The German Shepherds steadfast loyalty and cheerful, obedient temperament makes them ideal family pets as well as effective home protectors. Black and Tan, 3 and a half years old. A German shepherd puppy should be adventurous, bold, and open to meeting you and making contact. How to reach Przysietnica: Explore modes of transport for Przysietnica and know how to get in and get around in Przysietnica with Free travel guide. Great temperament loves everyone he meets. Current Young Adults for Sale: We have a couple of new young adults coming in in the next couple of months. Check out our available litters to find the next member of your family! The more information you can provide, the better we'll be able to match you with an adult dog that will thrive in your home. Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting. Personal protection german shepherd dog for sale. E-mail or call me , , for more info or to make an offer on these German Shepherd dogs. German Shepherds for Sale in Indianapolis. Each puppy is provided with a nurturing environment to help them develop into loving. Shipping worldwide is available. Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Florida with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to. With us, you can count on proper training, temperament, and disposition. How to Reach Przysietnica, Poland. Temui kami di sekitarmu Cari lokasi toko yang menyediakan layanan Blibli Instore di dekatmu. You may also want to check out our Available Puppy page or our Available Adults page. In the background Gunung Semeru .Click here for larger-size photo. Etta of Kreative Medusa Born: April 15th .German Shepherds sold by reputable, ethical breeders for example could be more expensive or harder to come by than a litter of puppies bred in a puppy mill or by a backyard breeder. Click on a number to view those needing rescue in that state. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, loyal, and physically gifted animals, making them an ideal candidate for your next family protection dog. German Shepherd, Females. Gage would make a perfect Estate dog or Service dog. German Shepherd Young Adults For Sale All the young dogs you see listed on this page are dogs that were born and trained within our program both in the US and in Europe. Please contact Linda for more information at .Free service to merge PDF. Cody is a gorgeous, large, black and red. All dogs shown here are backed up by our warranties and the price includes two. Volcanoes Gunung Bromo left, flat big crater and Gunung Batok right seen at sunrise from the north. Shyness runs in certain GSD lines, and you want to avoid timid pups. Adult German Shepherds we have for sale will be listed here. All of our dogs are house broken and leashed trained. German Shepherd Rescue Pennsylvania. Focusing on only rich black and red. German Shepherds for Sale in Chicago Illinois. All dogs shown here are backed up by our warranties and the price includes two private follow up lessons after the dog has been integrated into your home and family. Our adult German shepherds are excellent with families and can be used for home protection or good. If you are interested in meeting a dog in. The German Shepherds steadfast loyalty and cheerful, obedient temperament makes them ideal family pets as well as. Adult German Shepherd Dogs for Sale in New Jersey All our trained dogs for sale are bred from our dogs that we selectively chose and raised as puppies, and they are all American Kennel Club registered. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. German Shepherd Adult Dogs for Sale. We have a few older females looking for their forever retirement homes. Kraftwerk K9 offers world-class obedience training programs that teach everything from basic fundamentals every puppy should know to custom-tailored commands for home protection. German Shepherds: Family Protection Dogs Available German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, loyal, and physically gifted animals, making them an ideal candidate for your next family protection dog. To see all available information, click on the image. Complete your family and enrich your life with a purebred German shepherd puppy. Thank you for considering rescue. Before we begin, please know that the majority of our adoptable animals never make it to our website as our adoption coordinators are working behind the scenes with our approved adopters. Therefore, the website does not reflect ALL the animals we have in our care that are available for adoption. Please understand that if you do select a specific dog, your application may not be the only one received for that pup but again, our adoption coordinator will work to find the best pup for you. Our placement process is very fluid and availability can change quickly. After you submit your application, you will hear back within 72 hours from a member of our adoption team. We are a volunteer-based organization and appreciate your patience. In the interim, do not fret, applications are processed in the order they are received. You have not lost your place in the queue. If multiple applications were submitted for the same dog or puppy, the first application in is the first application to be considered for that pup. When you adopt you save 2 lives! We look forward to welcoming you into the Sweet Paws Rescue family. While predominantly considered a single breed, it is bred in four distinct varieties based on coat type and colour; the long-haired black Groenendael , the rough-haired fawn Laekenois, the short-haired fawn Malinois, and the long-haired fawn Tervuren. The breed descends from a common type of shepherd dog found throughout Western Europe that includes such modern breeds as the Bouvier des Ardennes , Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd. A common sight in the service of Belgian shepherds for centuries, it was not until the end of the 19th century that a breed club was formed and attempts were made to standardise the breed. In addition to its historical role as a herding dog, Belgian Shepherds have been used as assistance dogs , companion dogs , detection dogs , guard dogs , guide dogs , police dogs , and search and rescue dogs. The breed has a long history of being used by military forces, serving in both World Wars; they continue to be used by a number of militaries in a variety of roles to this day. Appearance[ edit ] The Belgian Shepherd is a medium-sized athletic breed with a body built for endurance, they typically stand between 56 and 66 centimetres 22 and 26 in with bitches being on average 4 centimetres 1. Corbeel, bred his fawn long-haired Belgian Shepherd pair "Tom" and "Poes", one of their progeny was a long-haired fawn bitch named "Miss" who was purchased by a M. European Groenendaels in particular can whelp Tervuren-coloured pups; in most of the world these can be registered as Tervurens, whereas in the United States these pups would be disqualified from registration. The Malinois is gaining in popularity while the Laekenois remains comparatively rare. Air Force Malinois atop an M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle in Iraq in Health[ edit ] Belgian Shepherds are considered to be a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, although skin allergies, eye problems and dysplasia are seen. All hail a new year, one which I hope is filled with good health for you all as well as laughter, joy, financial security, love, and peace. I had planned to post my highly enthusiastic review of Le Lion right at the start of the new year with subsequent reviews scheduled for: three new Serge Lutens, including a rose-oud; the new Dusita; a new Ensar Oud parfum; two additional Amouage releases in the new Renaissance Collection; a Killian; and more. Then the news hit about something which takes precedence above all else in my life: the German Overlords! Specifically, it was absolutely confirmed that I would jump to No. Each boy was a chonk, but Blue seemed like a Super Chonk to me and he gave a glorious, quizzical side-eye, just like my late Emile Zola. Blue Camo seemed daintier and possibly even more philosophical, but less quizzical and questioning, and with far less chunky paws. Blue Camo seemed like a daintier proposition to me. Baby Zola, roughly 10 weeks old. The Hairy German at the dog park. The Hairy German. The Hairy German, taking over my bed like the king that he was. Kafka was not all sugar and spice, but he was trained when to bring out the fangs! Baby Kafka, roughly 8 weeks old. Baby Kafka, 8 weeks old. Kafka, as an adult who terrified every man, woman, child, and post man in two different states. Or to put it another way, there are six sub-types, and each one has a different general look, personality type, drive, health and breeding focus, and physical structure. A number of sites argue that the truest modern representation of the German Shepherd ideal intended by Baron Max von Stephanitz when he created the breed in the late s is actually the West German working line shepherd. I personally agree. One Alta Tollhaus sire, Pepe. Alta Tollhaus puppies, Photo from their website, 24kgsd. My late Hairy German was a red-and-black from W. In Germany and in most places other than America, GSDs can only be bred if they first qualify for a stringent set of examinations that measure every aspect of a dog and its health in multi-pronged tests: Schutzhund. Dogs that fail to conform in temperament, health, hips, elbows, ability, agility, protection, obedience, attack, and other things cannot be bred. In America, the rules are… different. Looks are the focus, not health, temperament, working ability, or breed behavioral standards. But that is a story for another day. When I told many of you last month that the Hairy German, my soul dog, died in April, what I never told you was that I had to put him down due to Degenerative Myelopathy. Death by slow paralysis, in other words. Testing for Degenerative Myelopathy is a relatively new thing for most GSD breeders, but Alta-Tollhaus has done genetic testing to avoid it in all their lines for almost 20 years now. Nor for anything else it seems. The bloody man never once cared about his dogs or their health; he would have killed Zola had I ever sent him back, and he was more concerned with silencing people with threats of lawsuits than in making sure his dogs were healthy. Scientific studies show that puppy brain development is heightened and critically formed during the 8 week to 14 week stage — do I have the stamina at this point to train and socialize a German Shepherd each and every day for the next 8 months straight? This means that my planned schedule for reviews will not be what I had anticipated back in the end of .The sign of a truly serious, dedicated, conscientious breeder whose first concern are the pups, not the money. The reason why this is suddenly so pressing is that my pup may be here as soon as Saturday or Sunday night! Here he is at roughly 46 days of age, or 5. With GSDs, names should ideally be one or two syllables in length, maximum, for training purposes. My father insists that the only possible name is Wagnerian, preferably Siegfried or Wotan. My mom, siblings, and I just grimace and ignore him. Even my dad, a fellow Trekkie and Stargater! Sticking a tiny, young week old pup in a gigantic, freezing cargo hold of an airplane seems incredibly traumatic. No brutal airplane or cargo trauma for the same price, this is a glorious idea to me. Source: RJ Wells. The puppy limo! Long story short, perfume must fall to the wayside before the Holy German Emperors and my newest master will be here as soon as Sunday! And, yes, I actually am highly recommending a Chanel fragrance despit,e being someone whose entire brain gets scrambled upon the very mention of that Nazi she-devil. You are all warned. Of grief and renewal, raising and losing a great dog Published: Jun. By Rocco David Jones djones pennlive. But the pattern of healing, I imagine, is the same in each. Some stages of grieving just take longer to achieve healing than others. Some never really can fully work their magic. But suffering one is always necessary to yield the other. I have suffered the loss of love and of family. I have lost both of my parents, one to cancer, one to old age, but both past their 70th birthdays. The older you get the more you acquire the callous to keep the wound from cutting so deep. Thank God, I have never been forced to endure the pain of losing a child or a life partner. My son is about to leave home for college. My wife, whose 30th wedding anniversary with this dried-out catcher's mitt will somehow be reached on Tuesday, still remains by my side. I've been blessed. Others will understand completely. Eleven months ago, we suddenly lost our German shepherd Rocco. To say he was a special dog does not do him justice. Don't Edit Playing in the snow with our neighbors' dog Maggie. David Jones djones pennlive. While we realize the wonderful attributes of all dogs and especially certain other breeds — the playful spirit of golden retrievers, the docile warmth of Labrador retrievers, the kindness of the Australian shepherd, to name a few — I think German shepherds are singular in their connection with humans. Which makes their loss feel truly like the death of a family member. German shepherds have a complex intelligence and yearning to understand humans that I think is unmatched. They bear not just a desire to be understood but to understand you. They look at you, not with just a desire to be fed or cared for or entertained, but a yearning to connect. Don't Edit Simba, circa .Burn Jones My father had a regal white shepherd named Simba who lived to be 15 from to , from the time he was a preteen growing up as an only child of a broken marriage through his World War II tour in Saipan as a navigator of Bs. Simba knew virtually everyone in the rural town of Circleville, Ohio. He followed my dad and his newlywed bride off to Army Air Corps training in Kansas and Texas and finally to San Francisco where he disembarked for the Pacific theater. There was a famous story told by my parents of Simba accompanying them into an elegant Bay Area hotel in with my dad in his dress uniform. The hotel desk clerk informed them that dogs were not allowed. My dad responded that he was about to leave for battle and that his was no ordinary dog. Somehow, the hotel management, looking at the dignified countenance of Simba, agreed, for just one night until my mother kissed my dad goodbye the next morning. Don't Edit Rocco and his best friend, our neighbors' Aussie shepherd Phoebe. And when my sister had her first child in , she became overwhelmed with taking care of the baby and agreed to loan my parents her goofy but whip-smart and sensitive Helmut .My parents had two more shepherds before they passed. But my wife and I, working late hours in our jobs, living in an apartment in Colonial Park, our first house in Etters and then raising our son in Downingtown, never felt we had time to devote to a dog. Don't Edit That changed when our son Nick reached the age of 8 in , I had begun writing more at home and the time seemed right. My wife Anna and her best friend found Rocco in, for various reasons, one of the worst places you can buy a dog — a pet store. But when they saw the week-old tangle of black-and-tan arms and legs, looking up calmly from a pen surrounded by Rottweiler pups, they fell in love. He was so serene, so friendly and good-hearted, they immediately came to me. I went to the store, took one look and bought him on the spot. Don't Edit Rocco removing another pound rock from Brandywine Creek for reasons only he could know. Anna and Nick had never had a dog before. I knew what was coming — raising a German shepherd puppy is like suddenly having a toddler running around. Don't Edit Anna, at one point when Rocco was about 4 months old and still having accidents, said to me: "I'm not sure I understand this dog thing. For her, it seemed like a nonstop siege of care with little apparent reward. But gradually, all of that changed. He accompanied Nick and his friends on excursions to Brandywine Creek and barked as they jumped off a rope swing on the Struble trail or off the Dowlin Forge bridge into the water. He loved kids and was the star of our Little League baseball parties, playing defense on the basketball court and outfield in Wiffle Ball games. More than once, I had to abandon the grill and take him inside to cool off, he got so overheated running from kid to kid, game to game. Don't Edit "You said we were going to go outside in a little while. This is just a reminder: It's been a little while. I never understood this. The last thing shepherds want to do is leave their people. All they want to know is what we're doing next. They spend half their lives looking at you. He loved rocks and dirt and tried to snap-catch the weeds she threw over her shoulder. Don't Edit Along the trail on the Brandywine, she would indulge his inexplicable fascination with creek-bed rocks and laughed as he methodically picked them out, some as large as his head and weighing 12 pounds or more, and brought them up to plunk them on the shore. We never knew. An amiable old Oklahoman working on the intercontinental gas pipeline that periodically needs maintenance along the creek near the bottom of our driveway, once watched Rocco's excavation act during a break. He laughed, shook his head and asked Rocco: "Is there any particular rock that you're looking for? We spent a lot of time together as I worked at home. When I became frustrated attempting to write a story, I could always recharge by laying down the laptop and taking him outside for a walk around our property. Usually that was up the trail to look for deer to futilely chase, another of his passions. Rocco expected such a walk every afternoon by 1 or so at the latest. If I had a busy day, I could delay it by telling him, "We'll go outside, in a little while. And he'd go back and lie down. But then, in an hour, he would come back and lay his giant black head on my chair or just stand and look at me, ears erect and expectant, as if to say: "Remember what you said before? Well, it's been 'a little while. Rocco, at pounds, would almost always just trot by with what honestly looked like quiet disdain. Rolling a large rock. Why not? He was getting more terrified of thunderstorms and July fireworks; Anna took to rubbing him with lavender oil which Nick and I both thought was sort of funny, but it seemed to help both of them. Rocco was suffering weakness in his hind legs, sometimes tumbling without warning. Still, there were no concrete signs he would be leaving us for at least a few more years. Then again, knowing the breed as I do, I was aware the bigger shepherds often die before the smaller ones and Rocco was huge. I also knew something my wife and now high school junior son did not: What it felt like to lose one. Don't Edit It happened suddenly last July. A very bad sign. A trip to the vet that night set in motion the beginning of the end. But an X-ray the next day confirmed the worst fear. Cancer cells were rampant, all through his abdomen and lungs. Don't Edit The last day at the vet's office. She began to cry. He was stoic, as is his nature, at least over the phone. The doctor said I could take him home one last night but that we should consider the inevitable the following morning. It was a rough night. Anna and I both slept with Rocco in the living room as he struggled to find enough comfort to sleep between coughing bouts. He got about two hours of sleep, between 3 and 5 a. When dawn broke, you could see how much it hurt him. The joy had drained from his face. In place of his expectant and upbeat look was one of mere survival. I knew what had to be done. Anna grasped for anything else it might be: "How do they know. We can't just put him to sleep without knowing for sure. Don't Edit After we returned home from the last trip to the vet's, I saw this on the living room steps, and the loss really began to hit me. One put him to sleep. The next ended his life. We all reacted in different ways. I remember being mostly numb, tears welling in my eyes but without a sound. Those would come later in private. Anna cried softly. Nick drove her home in his car and, she said, finally broke down while at the wheel, a truly rare moment of outward emotion for him. Don't Edit Don't Edit I drove home in my own car alone — solemn, empty, a hole in the heart that would not be filled. I wrote a Facebook eulogy that night. Friends poured forth and tried to comfort us. The pain deadens after a few weeks but the hollowness does not. It wells up at unexpected moments. Any time we used to share with Roc, which was inherently family time, there it was, an unfamiliar frown around a blind corner. Don't Edit Nick and Kaiser. We became accustomed to not having a dog. It has been liberating of responsibility and simultaneously diminishing of spirit. We rise to no greeting and return to no welcome. Not right away. It was as if our yearlong grief was a necessary honor to Rocco. He was that special. We picked out an 8-week-old shepherd from a beautiful Mennonite farm in Strasburg and brought him home on Tuesday. My son came up with the name on his senior-week trip to the shore: Kaiser. Caroline Gray He is not Rocco. No dog will be. Nothing gets cleaned. You barely have time to perform minimum personal hygiene. I found myself at 6 a. It just seemed more efficient. And time management is paramount with a baby. So, this will be the sixth shepherd of my life. A certain goofiness quotient seems likely. But I can feel one thing -- that hole in the center of me starting to fill up. Don't Edit.

When our 8-weeks puppies leave home, we always say. But how much and how fast should a puppy grow? What should they weight at 3, 5, 8 months? We have been very skeptical to give this information to our families, but many of our puppy families want this chart, so here it is. Some of the reasons we hesitated to provide this chart with every puppy — is because we know that once there is an actual chart to follow, it can be very stressful for families, as they might think that this is the ONLY way their puppy will and should develop and anything off these numbers is a fault. This is not true. This can be overwhelming! I remember when our first born kid, a daughter Malasha was born, I was stressing when a pediatrician would place her on a scale every month — if she was not gaining on the top of the percentile chart, I was feeling that I am failing as a breastfeeding mother. Now, after four absolutely different pregnancies, births and many years of breastfeeding, I know that each child is different, unique and for as long as there is a continuous progress and development — we are doing ok as parents. If you will keep this is mind and not stress every month - then please use this table. We did not create these numbers, but used the data we found online, we just put it into a nicer design. The numbers on this German Shepherd Growth Chart are simply averages. This chart may become helpful to give owners an idea of what to expect as their puppy matures. As these numbers give you an approximation of what weight an average GSD puppy is typically at that particular age in months. Remember not to get frustrated if your puppy does not match these perfectly, but if you notice significant difference, bring this up with your veterinarian during your next visit. Not a bad idea to have a well-puppy check up to see how your puppy is doing health-wise and to make sure there are no underlying causes making this an issue. Raising German Shepherds for the first eight weeks, we are amazed by the amount of growth and development they go through in such short amount of time. One time we had a litter of eight weeks of age and a newborn litter at the same time, so I asked Serge to hold a newborn puppy in one hand and a puppy of 8 weeks in his other and took a picture for comparison. It was just amazing to see! All our neonatal care happens in those eight weeks and there is such a tremendous difference! When our puppies leave from our kennel home they average at 12 lbs. When we are updated with images and weights, it is absolutely incredible to see how fast they grow! If you think of it: a newborn puppy is typically a pound and by their first year they often weigh around 80 pounds for a male and about 65 to 70 for a female! If you think about it, that is a phenomenal amount of growth for anything to go through in just one year! Many people just take it for granted but we think it is amazing. This baby would be about the size of a school bus by the time it was a year old! That is crazy! Finally, we want to once again address the size of a German Shepherd Dog as an adult as it is listed in a breed standard. An allowance of 2. German Shepherd Dogs will slow their growth after 12 months, but they will continue to grow up until 24 months. At 24 months old they will stop grow in size but will fill their body and especially chest with muscles. Again, this varies from German Shepherd to German Shepherd but this is a good starting place to keep in mind since German Shepherd development can vary so much from dog to dog. Please, feel free to leave your story in comments. Shares are welcome. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. What is a healthy weight for your dog? Your tiny, cute German Shepherd puppy will likely grow into a medium-sized or large dog. Females will probably weigh in on the medium side, while males can get pretty big. GSD puppies experience a phenomenal rate of growth, especially before six months, so be ready. Just remember that dogs as big as male German Shepherds are at risk for joint problems because they grow so quickly, and overfeeding them can exacerbate those problems as they get older. Factors Effecting German Shepherd Size German Shepherd size is dependent on age, but there are many other factors too. Female Shepherds are smaller and lighter than males. How your dog is fed and exercised will play a part. In this article we will look at the height and weight of GSDs at different stages of their development. And at what you might expect your cute German Shepherd puppy to measure and weigh when they are a full grown German Shepherd Dog. German Shepherds are the third most popular dog in the USA right now, having been recently nudged down a place by the French Bulldog. The breed belongs to the Pastoral group of dogs traditionally used as herding dogs. Some shepherd breeds were also used to guard livestock. German Shepherd Dog size is linked to this important role. The German Shepherd temperament is also tied in with this purpose and has made them uniquely suited to work as a service dog. With the right training, German Shepherd dogs also make excellent family pets. Working German Shepherd Size Because of their dual purpose as both herding and guard dogs, they are one of the larger shepherd dog breeds. He also turned to refining them into good police and guard dogs, creating a very versatile breed still in demand as herding became less common. German dog breeds became unpopular during the second world war and lovers of the breed began referring to them as the Alsatian dog, to protect their dogs from anti-German sentiment. They are easily trained, so they make good show and work dogs. Specifically with weight and growth rate. Being overweight can be harmful to German Shepherd health, just as it can to other breeds. Black German Shepherd puppies weigh the same as pups of other colors Weight issues in adult dogs is not the only area of concern, GSDs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which has been linked in some cases to overly rapid growth in puppies. They also suffer fromosteochondritis dissecans, disorders of the pancreas, panosteitis causing lameness, eye and ear issues, and allergies. And are vulnerable to bloat. In addition, some GSDs have deeply sloping backs and angulation in the legs that may be causing health issues. German Shepherd Puppy Size An average weight of German Shepherd puppies, according to a giant census study of dogs in Italy, is about grams or 1. A baby German Shepherd can range from 0. By about a week of age, they will weigh 1. This is one of the reasons why large breed-specific dog foods exist: to control the growth of these dogs in a way that will maximize their health and minimize joint problems. But up to 3 or 4lbs either side of that is normal. At this age most puppies are settled in with their new families and are on three meals a day. At this age pups can look quite gawky and skinny. Growth rate starts to really slow down now and many dogs will look a lot less puppyish than they did a month ago 9 month old German Shepherd puppy By nine months, your Shepherd will weigh between .At that point, the dog is about 90 percent of his or her adult weight. But in the coming months your pup will fill out, look less gawky, and may carry on gaining weight for another months. Bear in mind that this should be muscle gain, not fat, so keep an eye on that waistline! German Shepherd puppies generally stop growing significantly in height by nine months for males, eight months for females. Males may get an extra inch by 15 months and females slightly less than that by months. They reach their adult weight at 36 months. GSDs, like many larger breeds, are considered fully grown by about 18 months, when they have reached 98 percent of their growth. A golden shepherd golden retriever shepherd mix may be very similar but a shepherd mix dog where one parent is much smaller, will not. The answer is no, not really, though it is possible to harm your dog by overfeeding either as a puppy or an adult. German Shepherd dogs will no longer grow in height after 36 months of age, or three years. Dog individuals vary, just like human individuals do. You can ask your vet for a weigh in and a check up to discuss any concerns Average German Shepherd Height On average, male German shepherds reach a larger size when adult than females. So your girl German Shepherd is likely to be a little smaller than her brothers when she is full grown. The German Shepherd breed standard specifies that a good height for adult male German Shepherds is inches at the withers. For females, a size of inches at the withers is about right. How tall is a German Shepherd — length vs height These dogs are longer than they are tall. Fully grown male German Shepherd size is usually between inches tall and lbs. And adult female German Shepherd size is typically within inches tall and lb. However, you can expect your male GSD to weight about 80 lbs by 18 months of age, and 84 lbs by 36 months of age. Female German Shepherd weight is going to be less than male, the average weight at 18 months of age is about 62 lbs. But a good weight for females can like anywhere from lbs, and a good weight for males will be anywhere from lbs, depending on individual factors. Shepherds are often not as greedy as some other popular dog breeds, but obesity can still be a problem in this breed. Remember that exercise or lack of it is rarely at the heart of excessive weight issues in dogs. The problem is almost always too much food. Red German Shepherd Some slight weight loss may occur naturally in an old german shepherd. Older dogs may lose their sense of taste or smell and have less of an appetite than they did when young. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Birmingham Alabama and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Birmingham, AL? We have answers. What class of dog are Labradoodle puppies for sale near Birmingham? Labradoodles are a hybrid breed of dog created by breeding a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. This combination usually results in a friendly and outgoing animal that is loyal and loves to be around their owners. Labradoodles typically combine the intelligence and trainability of a Labrador Retriever with the low-shedding coat of a Poodle, making them a favored choice for allergy sufferers. Labradoodles come in three size variations, including standard, miniature, and toy, which can range in height from 12 to 24 inches and weight from 15 to 70 pounds. Will Labradoodle puppies for sale in Birmingham cause me to have allergies? Labradoodles are a popular breed of designer dog, but the truth is there is no way to guarantee their allergy-free status. In general, Labradoodles have a lower dander production than most other breeds and this can be beneficial to those with allergies. However, all dogs are capable of triggering a reaction, so if you already have allergies, it is best to visit a veterinarian prior to adopting a Labradoodle or any other breed. Do Birmingham Labradoodle puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Labradoodles generally require a well-balanced diet, like many other breeds of dogs. However, there are a few key aspects of their dietary needs that need to be taken into consideration. For starters, Labradoodles need more protein and fat in their diets than other breeds due to their inherent characteristics. It is also important to vary their diets and provide sufficient nutrients and vitamins to ensure their overall health and wellbeing. How do I prepare to adopt Labradoodle puppies in Birmingham? Preparing for a new Labradoodle is an exciting task! It is important to do your research and read up on the best practices for Labradoodle care. You will need to learn about the dietary needs of Labradoodles, the exercise they need, and the grooming that they require. Additionally, it is important to set expectations for your Labradoodle's behavior and establish house rules. Finally, be sure to get the necessary supplies such as bedding, toys, treats, food, treats, and other supplies. How fast do Labradoodles for sale in Birmingham grow? The size of your Labradoodle puppy will depend on a variety of factors, such as the parentage, sex, and health. Generally, Labradoodles are considered medium sized, with most adult dogs weighing between 25 45 pounds. It is always a good idea to research the parentage of any puppy you are considering purchasing, as the size could vary greatly depending on the size of the poodle parent. Can I take my Labradoodle puppies near Birmingham running? Yes, you can take your Labradoodle running! Before hitting the pavement, however, make sure your pup is comfortable and ready. Additionally, keep safety in mind and consider factors such as weather, your skill level with running with a dog, and the physical ability of your Labradoodle. If it's too hot outside, the terrain is too difficult, or your Labradoodle has never been running before, then it may be best to wait and work up to running with your pup over time. Do Labradoodles in Birmingham get along with other pets? Labradoodles can typically get along with other pets, depending on how they are socialized and trained as puppies. If they are taught to be friendly and respectful from a young age, they can be excellent members of a multi-pet household. In particular, they usually are easygoing and can get along with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and even small rodents. Whenever introducing a new pet to your Labradoodle, do so with caution in an environment that limits their interaction with one another. This will help prevent potential altercations. Are Birmingham Labradoodles for sale considered smart dogs? Labradoodles are considered smart dogs, as they are highly trainable, social, and inquisitive. With proper training, these dogs can quickly become obedient and a great addition to the family. They have the intelligence of a poodle combined with a Labrador Retriever, so they are easily able to pick up commands and learn new things. Labradoodles often demonstrate a high level of understanding and emotional intelligence. They are also quite affectionate and eager to please their owners, making them a great companion for those of all ages.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement.

Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. Fortunately, she took to her crate immediately. However, she was still skittish and terrified of people, cars, loud noises, water, and the vacuum cleaner. Goldens typically like the water, but after life in an unprotected cage, Harper had come to fear the water. Luckily, a raincoat helped ease her fear of the rain. It also helped her look a little like the Gorton's fisherman. She crouched down when they initially swarmed her, but after a few minutes she was happily sniffing butts and playing with her new pals. She loved jumping through the snowbanks near the house. Her walkers are super sweet and she loves spending time with them," she says. In fact, she chewed up this shoe right before graduating from her intermediate training class! She's still a bit leery of the water, but she seems to be getting more comfortable with it. Tried to put her to work, but she was pretty useless at anything finance-related. Unfortunately, she didn't qualify for a consulting fee. She is a spunky little thing that has so much personality and love — it's hard to imagine that she was ever destined to end up on a dinner plate," daisyintheair says. And Harper has also made her life more fulfilling and healthy. Regular walks keep me active. It's hard to get upset over little things when this little furball is rolling on the ground or chasing her tail.Having her has resulted in countless physical, mental and emotional benefits for me. Sometimes I really do wonder who rescued whom. As the leading platform for native advertising and content recommendation, Revcontent uses interest based targeting to select content that we think will be of particular interest to you. We encourage you to view your opt out options in Revcontent's Privacy Policy.