english bulldog puppies for sale in ri

Located on 25 scenic acres in rural Northeastern Oklahoma, please call us to speak. Why buy a puppy from Great Oaks Kennel? Genetically tested and cleared for all genetic health conditions tested. Almost all of our parent dogs have been genetically tested through Embark for over diseases or Animal Genetics and cleared for all those diseases. This will give you the peace of mind to know that the puppies will be as healthy as they can be.You can check the specific test results of each litter on their page. Carries a 1 year health guarantee. This gives you protection and peace of mind. More than detailed testimonies from our puppy families. This can help you to see what to expect and insure that your confidence is well placed. Come micro-chipped and with extra immunizations. Comes with a wonderful experience! We have your puppy microchipped which saves you money, but primarily, it helps to get your best friend home in the unfortunate event they get lost. Most breeders send puppies home with 1 puppy shot. We spend the extra time, money and effort to give 2 vaccinations to save you a vet visit and give your puppy the extra immunity it needs going home. We normally answer the phone or call back within minutes Continual communication throughout the process. Continual communication throughout the process. We try to update puppy pics about every 2 weeks on our site. This lets you watch your puppy grow up while you are waiting for him to come home w Fast responses to your inquiries. This lets you watch your puppy grow up while you are waiting for him to come home with your family. Puppy Pick Day.You pick your puppy. We normally schedule puppy pick day at about 6 weeks of age and post pictures and videos so you can make sure and get just the right puppy for your family. Because they're gorgeous, happy, healthy puppies. Everyone wants a beautiful, socialized, fun, healthy puppy.Great Oaks Kennel beautiful faces below! All of them are our amazing puppies! Check Out Our Social Media. Our beloved dogs create the most amazing bernedoodles of all sizes and a limited number of quality aussiedoodles and AKC registered bernese mountain dogs. Our mission is to produce happy, healthy puppies and match each perfect puppy with their perfect family. Come see us, meet and greet our adult dogs, play with the puppies, and begin a lifetime of memories with your new family addition. Learn More About Us Bernedoodle Puppies in Oklahoma Are you looking for a puppy who loves playing with children and enjoys adventures with the family? A Bernedoodle is what you're after! The Bernedoodle is a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle - both intelligent and incredible companion breeds. Bernedoodle puppies are beautiful dogs that make a great addition to any family. More About Bernedoodles Premium Aussiedoodle Puppies in Oklahoma An Aussiedoodle is the breed for those wanting a great family pet to play endlessly with. An Aussiedoodle has a Poodle parent and an Australian Shepherd parent. Our puppies enjoy adventures and spending time as a member of their family. The Standard Poodle is smart, obedient, and fantastic with children, and the Australian Shepherd is hard-working and loves to play. The Aussiedoodle has almost no end to coat colors and is a head-turner! Visit our Aussiedoodle Information page to learn more about these incredible puppies. Only 2 hours from Tulsa, OK and right outside of Oklahoma City, we are conveniently located for those looking to find a premium doodle puppy in Oklahoma. At Red Barn Doodles, we pride ourselves on the research and time that has gone into making a quality breeding program. Contact us today to learn about our available or upcoming Aussiedoodle and Bernedoodle puppies! We are so glad you stopped by!!! We are a small family-run Doodle farm just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Our main priority is ensuring the health and well-being of all our animals from birth until they leave with their forever family - and beyond so with that said, PRICING is not our main priority but rather the new home that you can provide.FAQ's Allergies We have done everything in our capability to ensure that our puppies are as hypoallergenic as possible. With that said, we can never guarantee allergy-free so we encourage you to drop by for a visit to see how you tolerate them. Are Deposits refundable? All deposits are non-refundable; however, we do allow you to transfer to a future litter and apply the deposit there. Can I breed my puppy? We have a strict no-breeding policy for all of our babies. On occasion we will extend breeding rights but those will always be on a case-by-case basis and include an additional fee. Out-of-State Do you live out of state? No need to worry. We will deliver your puppy ourselves, for an additional fee, in order to prevent transporting with a flight nanny. How do I know what to feed them? We will send your new baby home with a puppy package that will come with a bag of food as well as a welcome letter. Our hope are that all of our new families become lifelong friends and we are always here to provide support! Can I rehome my puppy? We do not allow any of our puppies to be re-homed without prior consent. You are welcome to return your puppy to us if something does not work out. Subscribe to Our Newsletter! View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Oklahoma City Oklahoma and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the toilet at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialisation Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the garden Besides the gnomes and questionable garden furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own garden is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and garden to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favourite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. Check Price on Amazon 6. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. This is known as command nagging. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If an order is not executed the first time, show your Lab what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they learn to obey the first time the command is made. Discipline at the Precise Moment of the Unwanted Behavior Timing is crucial when disciplining your 8-week-old Labrador pup. Dogs will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes. However, they can recall your training commands through associative memory. Once your pup has corrected his unwanted behavior with the desired behavior, reward him with a tasty treat and lots of praise. To learn more about how to discipline your dog, check out my top article, How to Discipline a Labrador: What Not to Do! It can also cause aggression in dogs , as found in this year-long study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. Using physical punishment such as hitting, kicking, or grabbing the jowls and shaking, is simply animal abuse. Other unacceptable methods are physically forcing the dog down onto its side or back, growling at your dog, withdrawing food, using a shock collar, or tying it for hours. Wean Your Puppy off Training Treats Your Labrador needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the behavior and completely mastered it in different locations and with various distractions. Nonetheless, your Labrador puppy is still a dog in training, and you still need to tell him that he has done the right thing. The rule of thumb is that they are trained young when it comes to dog training. You should train Labrador puppies as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. The American Kennel Club AKC indicates that the first key milestone when training a Lab pup is 8 weeks, as soon as they have left their mother. It is a crucial time to lay the foundation for your Labrador puppy to integrate into the family. When you bring your Labrador Retriever puppy home at two months, it has most likely interacted with a few situations and is eager enough to learn and follow the rules of a new home. A recent study scientifically proved that 8-week-old puppies are quite capable of learning at this young age as they quickly learned to open a puzzle box baited with food and remembered the skill an hour later. Interestingly, these puppies learned the skill better from a human rather than their mother. Other studies have also proven that it is effective for future behavior to teach puppies socialization and other skills rather than adults. In this study, puppies who attended a command and socialization training class for one hour a day for six months responded better to strangers than adult dogs who attended the same classes. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Lab puppies are easy to train. They are a working breed that enjoys physical and mental stimulation and have many positive traits. They are intelligent, devoted, friendly, highly social, and love to please. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, or search and rescue due to their easy trainability. Apart from the age factor, other breed-specific reasons make training a Labrador puppy easy. Here are three examples: Labradors are among the most intelligent dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, canine psychologist Stanley Coren lists Labradors in the top tier of the smartest dogs. So, even at just two months, your puppy has it in his blood to learn and carry out commands. To perform their original working job of retrieving fish that came off the trawl, Labradors had to be watchful and enthusiastic. These are essential learning characteristics. As game and waterfowl retrievers for hunters, Labradors have to be obedient. Another core training requirement makes your Lab puppy easy to train. With these ten principles on exactly how to train an 8-week-old Labrador, you can now apply them to the key areas your young puppy needs to be trained in. Labrador Puppy Training: Key Areas There are five critical areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week-old Lab puppy. In the next section, I will tell you what the training entails. How to Socialize a Labrador They say humans are social beings, but that is also true about dogs. Socialization begins with the breeder and continues with you. To socialize a Labrador, expose him to many different places and situations. Include sounds, smells, other adults, children, animals, cars, objects, etc. Dogs who are well socialized in the first 12 weeks will be set up for life. Socializing and training your puppy young plays a significant role in the development of adult dogs, as evidenced in this important study. Here are two key findings: Dogs that are well socialized as pups will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games with humans, helping them establish a true bond with their owners. As a puppy, you can teach your Labrador social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. Once he has completed his vaccinations, take him to public places such as parks or puppy socialization classes. Put him outside hourly and learn to anticipate when he needs to go. Reward and praise him when he does go outside. Usually, puppies will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and after meals. Use their natural rhythm for daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing in the area they sleep in and usually hold it. Nonetheless, very young puppies might be unable to do so. Walk your Labrador after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. Puppies will need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and for vaccinated dogs, a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent them from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you need to go out, get someone to help you stick to the routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new furry friend a good idea of his expectations. Check out my guide to Labrador potty training here. To crate train an 8-week-old Labrador puppy, start as soon as you bring him home. Slowly introduce him to the crate by throwing a treat inside and let him explore the crate voluntarily. When you first leave him with the door closed, make sure he is tired as he will sleep and not be afraid. Check out my Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens recommendations, including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Here are six key things you should practice when crate-training your Labrador: Keep your puppy in the crate at night. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets used to other sleeping arrangements. My puppy cried during the first night, but she was just fine after that. Lab puppies can be left alone in a crate for 1 hour for each month of age for up to 4 hours. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house. This is also for his safety, such as when you are cooking. Do not let your Lab out of the cage when barking or giving you those puppy eyes. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly learn that being quiet leads to nice things. He will quickly learn that this special place is just for him. Various toys and bedding will offer some comfort for your Labrador. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, the best ones will give your Lab enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into and choose a standard metal model with either a single or double door. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , also from Amazon, are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is even airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained not to hurt as they have learned their bite inhibition. This simply means that the dog has learned to control the strength of his bite. This sends the message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth until he lets go, then use lots of praise. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially learned from their mother and littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Lab puppy to soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not know how to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and adult jaw muscles. This can be devastating for you both, should your Labrador go on to bite someone! Have realistic expectations — as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his soft bite. How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Walk on a Leash Walking on a leash is not a natural skill in dogs — they need to learn it! Teach a leash cue, then introduce the pup to very short walks. If the dog pulls, stand fast and wait for him to return to you before continuing. Do this by letting him wear them for short periods inside the house and yard. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached, such as the Walk Your Dog With Love harness. They give you more control and are ideal for medium-large breeds. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your Lab to short walks outside on a leash. When it appears he is about to lunge toward another dog or object, quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is crucial. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. You can start steps 1 and 2 when the puppy is young, but you can only commence step 3 once the dog has been vaccinated. Final Thoughts Eight weeks old is the perfect time to train a Labrador puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, not biting, and leash training. To successfully train your Lab puppy in these areas, you must follow good training principles such as using reward-based training, being consistent in your commands, and disciplining at the precise moment of poor behavior. Begin with basic commands before introducing more complex or trick commands. Related Posts You May Like:. Crate training , potty training , and learning to settle at night and will all begin in earnest at 8 weeks. Is your 8 week old puppy driving you crazy? Puppies, like babies, can be hard work. Not to mention annoying, and frustrating! But hang on in there. Chances are, you are sleep deprived, and your life has been turned upside down too. Many of the problems that arise with a new baby puppy, are easily resolved with just a little help. And looking after your puppy with diarrhea is no fun. Which he will, because Labrador puppies are always hungry! You have to ration out his food for him. You need to know how much your puppy needs to eat in a 24 hour period, and then divide that amount between at least 4 meals. First night with puppy Your 8 week old puppy should not sleep in or on your bed. Bed sharing with new puppies is too dangerous. He might fall off, and is likely to leave little puddles on your mattress and carpet. Later on you can bed share with your dog if you want to, but not right now, at least not unless you puppy proof the room and sleep on the floor. Your 8 week old puppy should not be free to roam the house at night. There is so much potential for harm. Even if you only sleep for six hours or so, there is a great deal of mischief your puppy can get up to in that time. So, the three main options that work well for 8 week old puppies are described next First night options for an 8 week old puppy Here are those three alternative sleeping arrangement for the first few nights Safe sleeping area Sturdy box or crate next to your bed 1 The puppy safe sleeping area Just before you go to bed and after taking your outside to empty himself, you can put the puppy to bed in a puppy proof room with a washable floor. Or you can put his bed inside a large puppy playpen. Put plenty of newspaper or puppy pads down to cover most of the floor. On the other hand you WILL have to get up in the night. Which option is best? It may also result in vomiting and diarrhea for your pup, and a lot of clearing up for you. It might seem irrational to you, but there are good reasons for your puppy to be scared. If asked to sleep alone on the first night in their new home, they usually cry. For a surprisingly long time. Unless you live in a mansion, you will be able to hear him. And so will your neighbors. The best way around this, is to have the puppy sleep next to you for the first few nights as described in Option 3 above. New puppies learn very quickly. Whilst initial crying is the result of fear or loneliness, puppies they soon discover that crying gets them attention. How much do puppies sleep? Your 8 week old puppy will spend around 18 to 20 hours asleep out of every .But dogs continue to sleep for long periods throughout their lives. Sleeping often and deeply is normal for an 8 week old puppy. This is nothing to worry about if your puppy is energetic and playful when awake, eating and growing well, and seems healthy in every other respect Potty training your 8 week old puppy. Potty training your 8 week old Labrador puppy can start on the very first day. A few new puppies can last six or seven hours at night without a wee. But many cannot do this until they are around ten weeks old. If you crate your puppy at night, expect to get up in the middle night and take your puppy outside for a wee, for up to two weeks. If you opt to leave your puppy at night with puppy pads or newspaper, expect it to take a little longer than this before you come down to a nice clean floor each morning. Getting up earlier for a while is a given with an 8 week old puppy. Puppies pee much more frequently often the day. Some new puppies can last an hour or so between wees, but again, many cannot. If you are going back to work, or want to leave your puppy for three to four hours before he is five or six months old, and you want to crate train, you need to arrange for someone else to take care of him during the day. Even for this short period of time. An 8 week old puppy should not be left in a crate for hours at a time during the day. The secret to success in crate training a new puppy lies in getting good habits established from the start. And this means getting that puppy outside to his toilet area, whenever his little bladder is getting full. Your puppy will quickly become comfortable with you disappearing for a few minutes if you reliably return. But too much isolation is a common cause of noisy or destructive behavior. Puppies need company. Older puppies may cope happily with being left for up to four hours, but even an adult Labrador may become distressed or destructive if left alone for a full working day on a regular basis. Labradors are very sociable dogs and they need to have people around them. No matter how many walks he gets at the weekend. Puppies biting Most people know that puppies nip when teething. Despite learning early bite inhibition from their mother and littermates, puppies continue this spikey behavior when you bring them home. Destructive puppy behavior Your 8 week old puppy will chew, gnaw and dig around the home. It can be quite a shock to discover just how destructive a Labrador can be, both indoors and out, especially if left unsupervised for long periods of time. Expect your puppy to destroy anything he can get in his mouth. Indoors and out. Some even chew the skirting boards, rip plaster from the walls, and tear up carpets in their homes. Supervision, playpens and puppy crates will help keep your home in tact during the destructive phase. Puppies running off 8 week old puppies need time off leash. Tiny puppies have an automatic response with means that they follow people around. This response disappears by the time the puppy is around four or five months old. Labradors are retrieving dogs. They love to hunt and follow scent trails. Expect that an older puppy will want to explore away from you and get that off lead recall established well before he is six months old. Expect that an older puppy will stray further and further away on walks if you are too predictable and just traipse along behind him. Teach him to follow you and not the other way around. What we expect from an 8 week old puppy We expect an awful lot from our tiny puppies. Both when they are still very small, and then as they grow bigger. Some of our expectations are simply not in line with the way puppies think and behave. Cuddles We expect that puppies will enjoy being cuddled. Sometimes they do, mostly they are just being polite. TIP: Wait for your puppy to stop wriggling before you place him on the floor or he will wriggle harder next time! A fun friend for children We expect that our children will be able to play with a new puppy, but small puppies often bite and wriggle too much for little ones to enjoy them. Those pleasures tend to come later TIP: Use baby gates to give toddlers and puppies space apart from one another Success and quick results We expect that the efforts we put in to housetraining will be rewarded, that the puppy will listen to what we say. But potty training and obedience training take time. Your 8 week old puppy will have accidents in the house to begin with and needs your help to understand what you want him to do next. As he grows, we expect our puppy to return our love and affection, to respect us, be loyal, and obedient. And he will be, in time. Nor had we anticipated just how depressing it would be to clear up puppy pee and poop every time we get up in the morning, or return home from a quick shopping trip. But they are common reasons for people to become disenchanted with their furry companion. One of our aims here on The Labrador Site is to help close this gap between expectations and reality. So that puppies go into their new homes, and stay there for the rest of their lives. And most of the problems described above can be avoided or passed through without too much pain, if you have the right information! And a little preparation. You can do this if you are ready. Much puppy naughtiness is linked to over-excitement. Focus on being calm around your puppy, and read up on how to train your puppy effectively. The considered and appropriate use of a crate and baby gates, is a great way to prevent conflict between puppies and their families. Confinement is not a substitute for companionship and training though, and of course it is very important to be sure you have enough time in your life for a Labrador, before going ahead and getting that lovely puppy. Do check out our article: are you ready for a Labrador , before you take the plunge.

A cream hue is the prominent shade here and will cover most of their body. This hue may be interspersed with a darker golden color. When you imagine the color of a Blonde German Shepherd, think of the shades you may associate with a yellow Labrador Retriever or a Golden Retriever. These dogs have a coat that is a similar shade. Apart from the coat color, though, you will find that the blonde German Shepherd shares the same features as any other German Shepherd. This includes a black nose and paw pads. Their eyes may be darker as well. German Shepherds come in all colors, although blonde is undoubtedly more unusual. You may have heard about white German Shepherds and may be curious about whether blonde and white German Shepherds are the same. No, they are not. White German Shepherds are pure white — a similar color to snow. They are also solely white. Blonde German Shepherds, on the other hand, are a darker cream color. If they are side by side, you will be able to tell the difference between the two colors easily. They may look different from the traditional tan and black dogs typically associated with this breed, but they are identical to other German Shepherds. The differences in their coat are caused by a slight genetic variation. In every other way — physically and mentally, however, these dogs have the same genetic material as other German Shepherds. It is important to ensure that you get your blonde German Shepherd from a reputable breeder. If you can prove that a blonde German Shepherd puppy has two purebred German Shepherd parents, this will guarantee that your dog is purebred. If you find a blonde German Shepherd in a shelter, there is a chance that your dog may be a mixed breed. This is true even if your dog has all the physical characteristics of a German Shepherd. Such a dog may have been mixed with a blonde Labrador or a Golden Retriever. How Unique are Blonde German Shepherds? It is difficult to know just how rare blonde German Shepherds are. This is largely to do with the fact that the blonde coat color is caused by a recessive gene. Not only does this gene not show up very often, but it can also be overshadowed by other dominant genes. Their unusual coat color can also be considered a flaw. Due to this, many breeders may shy away from actively breeding dogs with this coat color or genetic component. The reality is that no one is quite sure how Blonde German Shepherds exist or reproduce. This is because the genetics resulting in this unusual color is tricky to understand. There are some theories, however. For instance, experts know that pheomelanin plays a role here. When certain genes interact with this pigment, it causes red to be diluted to cream colors. There is no accounting for how black portions typically found in German Shepherds are somehow diluted to a similar light or cream color. For this color dilution possibility, scientists have put forth the theory of pheomelanin being expressed by an ee genotype. If you want to get a blonde German Shepherd, there is a significant aspect to keep in mind. Their coat color can change throughout their life. This is a rather common occurrence with blonde German Shepherds. In some cases, it is genetic or pigment-related. Some believe that diet, health, and environmental factors play a role as well. This transformation generally takes place at around eight weeks old. There are some dogs who experience coat color changes when they are much older as well — around 2 years or so. If you want to get a blonde German Shepherd, you do have to accept the fact that they may grow darker with age. They may end up being a darker golden yellow or even a light brown. They do not, however, accept blonde German Shepherds as an official color. This is why owners or breeders who typically deal with show dogs will actively stay away from blonde German Shepherds. Bear in mind, however, blonde German Shepherds have the same physical capabilities as other German Shepherds. This allows them to excel at various dog sports and activities. Blonde German Shepherds can make excellent working dogs. They are intelligent dogs who adapt to training very easily. They also love having a job to do and excel when mentally stimulated. That being said, it is uncommon to find blonde German Shepherds in such a position. These dogs are prized for their uniqueness. They are most likely to be petted. As stated above, blonde German Shepherds are still quite a mystery to most breeders. Yes, there are some hypotheses, but not enough research has been done into this breed of German Shepherds to get a clear answer. As a result, it is difficult to know whether a particular German Shepherd carries a gene that can potentially produce blonde puppies. To add to this, it is possible that the blonde gene is either a mutation or a recessive gene. There is no way to know whether this gene can be passed onto puppies. Technically, it is possible that German Shepherds with the pheomelanin pigment may be more likely to produce blonde German Shepherds than other dogs. Similarly, those who are liver-colored or white may also give birth to blonde German Shepherds as there is already a preexisting genetic variation with these dogs. It is best to think of blonde German Shepherds as a fluke. They simply turn up in a litter without any warning. There are many things that can impact the cost of a German Shepherd puppy. In most instances, dogs that are most likely to adhere to AKC requirements and come from good stock are top contenders. They may not be able to win competitions, but the breed is prized for its rarity. As blonde German Shepherds are so uncommon, the puppies can be quite expensive. This drives up the price even further. It is important to note that blonde German Shepherds are like regular German shepherds. These are affectionate and loyal dogs who require a home where they will be cared for and loved. You will also have to train and socialize them as they grow up. There is no one-off costs involved with blonde German Shepherds, either. You will have to budget for food , bedding, toys , shelter, and vet bills. No, blonde German Shepherds are certainly not easy to find. In this case, how can you snag one of these puppies for yourself? To begin with, you will need to cast out a wide net. In many instances, you will have to look out of state for them. The internet can often be a good place to search for breeders in other regions. There is no guarantee when you can find a blonde German Shepherd. If a blonde German Shepherd is about to give birth, there may be a chance that at least one puppy will be blonde. Breeders will often post about blonde German Shepherds once they are born. Due to this, you will often have to be patient and there is no telling how long you will have to wait before you get your hands on this unique pup. Instead, pay attention to the breeder and research them carefully. They should be a reputable breeder who runs genetic health tests for the parents and even grandparents of the puppy. A good breeder is concerned with the health of the puppy and not how much profit that they can make off of a rare blonde German Shepherd. Make sure that any potential breeder has all the proper paperwork and can prove that several generations of the bloodline have been deemed healthy. In doing so, you will be able to increase your chances of having a healthy, happy dog who will live a long life. The blonde German Shepherd is certainly a fascinating and unique version of this breed. As you take a closer look, however, you will see that only a genetic mutation of pigments separates this dog from the rest of its breed. It is still interesting to learn about and can make you appreciate the blonde German Shepherd even more. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Color breeders often overlook the important health-related aspects of breeding, which can lead to unhealthy pups that achieve color preferences. Avoid purchasing these pups from pet stores as these animals always come from irresponsible breeders and puppy mills, with the exception of a handful of states that require pet store pups to be from rescues. You can also consider adopting a blonde German Shepherd. If you get a blonde puppy, you may end up with a dog that is tan or brown later in life. This means that blonde coats can occur in most breeding programs, even responsible and respectable programs. Part of this is due to the lack of understanding pertaining to which genes are directly responsible for the coat color. The other part of this is that many people think that blonde German Shepherds are mixed breeds, so many responsible breeders avoid breeding light-colored dogs in their programs. Image Credit: JB-Photography. They Cost a Pretty Penny Although undesirable coat colors often cost less, blondes may cost more than desirable coat colors due to their rarity. Albino is distinctly different from other colors, and they are all distinctly different from the blonde coat color. Blonde German Shepherds do have melanin, so they are likely to have brown, black, or tan eyes, and they will have darker colors on the nose and paws, usually from tan to black. The reason color breeding is a problem is because it overlooks health conditions present in the parents or their genes for the sake of breeding out a specific color. Blonde German Shepherds should have the same temperament as other coat colors, making them loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable. Related Reads:. Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Blue and liver are considered among the rare GSD colors, but even less common are blonde German Shepherds. What is a Blonde German Shepherd? Instead, the color of their coats is closer to that of a Golden Retriever or a Yellow Labrador. These are phaeomelanin and eumelanin. By default, eumelanin produces the color black while phaeomelanin produces the color red. Genes modify these pigments to produce a wide variety of coat colors. For example, gene dilution in the eumelanin pigment can produce liver or blue german shepherds. On the other hand, phaeomelanin can produce red in different shades. Genes can also influence it to produce orange, gold, and yellow coats. Some speculate that blonde GSDs might come from white parents. However, white coloring in canines is caused by the absence of pigment. So, genetically, white coats cannot become blonde. A study published by the Journal of Heredity in could be a clue to this incredibly unusual color. According to the research, the genotype ee at the MC1R gene produces the cream color in German Shepherds. How Rare is the Blonde German Shepherd? Blonde German Shepherds are remarkably rare because it takes a very unusual genetic combination to produce such offspring. Additionally, it is not among the coat colors that are considered desirable in show dogs. So, professional breeders are not motivated to produce them. Breeders also fear that blonde GSDs might bring up doubts about their pedigrees not being purebred. Are Blonde German Shepherds Purebred? When a blonde GSD puppy is the product of two purebred parents, the puppy is undeniably purebred. The color of its coat might be unusual, but it is only caused by a unique genetic combination and not because it is a crossbreed. Nevertheless, blonde-coated German Shepherds can also be mixed-breed dogs. They retain the general appearance of the German Shepherd parent but the coloring of the other breed. This is the reason why there can be speculation about whether Blonde GSDs are purebred in some instances. Apart from their color, these dogs are exactly what you would expect from a typical German Shepherd. As long as they are purebred, blonde German Shepherds will have the same build and general appearance as their GSD parents. They will also have the same grooming requirements. Additionally, you can expect their personality, temperament, and intelligence level to be comparable to any other dog of the same breed. Owning one means you need to be ready to offer strong leadership and take the time to socialize, train, and mentally stimulate your dog. The closest color it recognizes is white, but even that is considered a serious fault. So, blonde German Shepherds would not be allowed to enter conformation events. Because they are such athletic dogs, they are expected to perform well in canine sports such as Agility , Flyball , and Dock Diving. How Much is a Blonde German Shepherd? Because they are so rare, there is no documented average pricing for blonde-coated German Shepherd puppies. No, blonde and albino German Shepherds are vastly different from one another. Blondeness is a dilution in the red coloring. On the other hand, albinism is caused by the absence of the pigment eumelanin. An albino dog will not just have a completely white coat but also a pink nose and eye rims. Eye color is also affected, where it turns out to be light blue or, rarely, red. Final Thoughts Owning a blonde German Shepherd will definitely be a unique experience because they are incredibly rare. If you are not quite sure that the blonde GSD is your best option, you might also want to check out liver-colored , black , panda , or blue German Shepherds.

Veterinarian Owned Royale French Bulldogs is owned and operated by a highly trained and experienced veterinarian. One Year Warranty Our puppies are guaranteed to have a clean bill of health and free from genetic issues for one full year Champion Bloodline Our sires and dames are carefully selected from Europe with champion bloodlines. They answered all questions promptly whether it was by text or phone call. We had our sweet girl delivered to us in Las Vegas by their nanny service and received text and pictures along the way. Our puppy Hazel is very healthy and full of energy. I would definitely do business with Royale French Bulldogs again. Thank you for your professionalism from start to finish. The whole transaction was smooth and seamless! Our baby is even more beautiful in person! Thanks Royale French Bulldogs for everything. They are by far the best I found. They care about their dogs like every single one is their own. We now have two from them and have recommended others to get their puppies from them. The care you receive is top notch. Michelle- Portland When we got Luda, we thought it was cool that he and my dad shared the same birthday. My dad passed away yesterday and I cant help to think there is a reason Luda was sent to us! Even more special now! Thank you for this amazing Angel! They are also known for their distinctive "bat ears" and squishy faces, compact and muscular body and a broad head with a flat forehead. They come in a wide range of colors, patterns and sizes which makes them appealing to different tastes. French Bulldogs can be found in colors such as blue, lilac, and merle, which are considered to be rare and unique colors. At Country Club Frenchies, we are a reputable and responsible breeder based in Georgia, dedicated to breeding quality French Bulldogs. We have strict breeding practices in place and only breed dogs that meet certain health standards. We are transparent about our breeding practices and are happy to provide information about the parents of our puppies, as well as any relevant health certificates. We have a wide variety of French Bulldog puppies for sale, with a variation of colors including blues, lilacs, merles and tri-colors. Our French Bulldogs are well socialized and have great personalities, easy to train, and make great companions. We also offer stud services for other reputable breeders in Georgia. We understand that bringing a French Bulldog into your home is a big decision and we are happy to provide all the necessary information about French Bulldog care, training and health. Our dogs receive the best care and nutrition, and we also provide information about genetics and how to keep your French Bulldog healthy. We also believe in the option of adoption, and we encourage people to consider adopting French Bulldogs from shelters and rescues, who are waiting for a loving home. French Bulldogs are low maintenance and don't require a lot of exercise or grooming, which makes them a great option for people who lead busy lifestyles. If you're interested in bringing a French Bulldog into your home, please visit our website www. You can gain further insights about us by exploring our informative blog posts. These two breeds are very entertaining and love to please their owners. Both breeds are such clowns and are very comical. Very small in size but with the heart of any big dog. Both breeds are very loving and will have you laughing for days. They are such clowns and love the attention. We occasionally will produce other colors such as brindles, creams, whites and other colors also. Most of our frenchies are of Russian and Hungarian decent. We love these babies as if they were our own kids so producing a healthy sound pup is our main goal. All pups will be checked by a certified vet before being transported to its new loving home. They are all AKC registered coming from some of the best bloodlines sought after today. We strive to pair our clients with their perfect doggie sole mate. By owning and caring for our own babies we know the connection and joy that frenchies give to their new parents. All pups come with a 1 year health guarantee against any life threatening illness. We have a very strict breeding program and all breedings are strategically planed with genotype and phenotype in mind. We mainly produce dilutes blues dd, but we also produce on occasion chocolates bb pups also. Financing Finance Your Pet Today! Financing is available for our valued puppy parents! We partnered up with Lending USA to provide this incredible financing option available to just about everyone! The secure application is provided by Lending USA and your decision is emailed in less than business days. This can be a great way to buy your new bulldog puppy today and spread the payments out over time! The price depends on the color, gender, age, color markings and the perspective of the breeder how beautiful of the puppy is. Why does a Frenchie cost that much? Breeding Frenchies properly is a very expensive proposition. Dogs with good breeding genes are expensive to acquire. Due to french bulldog geometry, nearly all pairiings require artificial insemination. Births are all via C-section. DNA testing, frequent veterinary visits, vaccinations, high quality food, supplements and more are all very expensive and add up quickly. What does the price include? Your Frenchie puppy price includes AKC registration, health certificate, one year genetic health guarantee, deworming, vaccinations until adoption, and lifetime breeder support! What Payment methods do you accept? We believe that a buyer should be able to afford a frenchie without financing as the care is also expensive, but do offer PayPal financing when appropriate Do You Deliver? Flights using certified puppy nannies are also available and you can meet your puppy at the airport! Can I see my puppy on video before I buy? Yes, we will Facetime or Zoom with you so you can see your precious furbaby! What is process of buying? What to buy my puppy before they arrive? Adjustable crate. There are plenty of reasons why your Frenchie needs both a harness and collar.

View all adoptable dogs Our Mission Our mission is to find safe, loving, lifelong homes for Golden Retrievers. No Golden Retriever will ever be turned away, regardless of medical needs or age. Every furry friend goes through a wellness check with our experienced veterinarians. We make sure every dog is up-to-date with current vaccinations, are spayed and neutered if necessary, receive heartworm treatment and are treated for any other medical issues that are needed. We have a c 3 classification with the IRS, making your donation tax deductible. We also meet the requirements for corporate matching, employee giving, and volunteer grant programs. Help us out today! Volunteer We are always in need of kind-hearted volunteers to join our team. Check out a few of the great volunteer roles available and then fill out an application form. Our Volunteer Director will get in touch and match your time and talent to our needs. Volunteer today! Community Events These community events are vital to new volunteer recruitment as well as finding homes for our dogs. Most events are held on the weekends throughout the year. Volunteers are always needed to help set up, man our table, and help tear down. We have answers. What are Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Birmingham like? A Golden Retriever is a large, lovable, and highly intelligent breed of dog. Their thick golden coats make them irresistibly cute, and many people find that they can't help but take home one of these beautiful animals. Golden Retrievers were originally used as working dogs, which is why they are so obedient and loyal. They excel in activities like tracking, retrieving, and obedience competitions and are also great for jogging companions, search-and-rescue missions, and as therapy dogs. With Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Birmingham, what is their coat like? The Golden Retriever has a beautiful double-coat that consists of a waterproof, outer coat and a fluffy, downy undercoat. This coat may come in different shades of gold ranging from light cream to dark golden. The long, thick outer coat can protect them from water, cold temperatures, and even some brush and brambles. The undercoat can provide insulation during the cold months. Grooming for the Golden Retriever can be time-consuming and require weekly brushing to keep the coat free of mats and tangles. Do Birmingham Golden Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, Golden Retrievers do have special dietary needs. Unlike some other breeds, Goldens require a nutrient-dense and balanced diet to stay healthy and active. Protein should make up between 18 and 25 percent of their diet, and it should come from sources like fish, poultry, and meat. They should also be given omega-3 fatty acids and other fats to help keep their coat and skin healthy. Fruits and vegetables, as well as grains and cereals provide necessary carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Birmingham? Before bringing your new Golden Retriever home, it's important to create a safe environment for them. Start by puppy-proofing the home by making sure any areas with electrical cords are secured, any cleaning or potentially toxic materials are moved out of reach, and any small objects that could be swallowed are put away. Next, get the supplies you'll need for your pup, such as a comfortable bed, healthy food and treats, water and food dishes, and any toys you'd like them to have. How big do Golden Retrievers for sale in Birmingham get? Golden Retrievers are a larger size of dog, typically weighing anywhere from 55 to 75 pounds as adults. On average, mature male Golden Retrievers can reach between 21 and 24 inches tall, while females tend to be slightly smaller, ranging between 20 and 22 inches. That being said, some may be smaller or larger than this depending on the individual. The most important thing is that Golden Retrievers receive a balanced diet and plenty of exercise to stay healthy and strong. How many minutes per day should I walk Golden Retriever puppies near Birmingham? The amount of time you should walk your Golden Retriever on a daily basis depends on a number of factors including age, energy level, and size. Generally speaking, an adult Golden Retriever should receive at least 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise. This can take the form of a leisurely walk, a more efficient hike, or even playing fetch. Of course, exercise needs may vary depending on the individual dog, so it is important to monitor your pup and adjust the amount of time he is walking per day accordingly. Are Golden Retrievers in Birmingham good with kids? Golden Retrievers are renowned for having gentle dispositions. Their intelligence and ability to learn quickly make them excellent family companions. They are patient and playful, so they are ideal around children and are always willing to share their love. Golden Retrievers are even-tempered, affectionate, and loyal. Their warm and loving nature ensures they will happily give any child they meet their full attention. With supervision, they are the perfect companion for adventures and activities, so they are more than capable of being a wonderful companion to any child. Is training Birmingham Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be an easy endeavor if the proper techniques and principles of dog training are followed. Golden Retrievers are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and eagerness to please, making them well-suited to learn with positive rewards-based training. This approach focuses on rewarding desired behaviors with praise, verbal cues, and treats in order to reinforce good behavior. While patience and consistency are key during the training process, Golden Retrievers are quick learners and exceptionally responsive to the positive reinforcement of rewards-based training.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You need the best exercise for German Shepherd puppies to keep them healthy, fit, and, more importantly… Out of mischief! Quite the opposite is true for your fast-growing breed! German Shepherd puppies should stick to only five minutes of continuous, on-leash leisurely walking at a time, based on their age in months. So, an 8-week-old puppy can walk for 10 minutes at a time on a leash, while a 6-month-old can walk on a leash for 30 minutes at a time. However, your puppy can enjoy low-impact, gentle exercises for longer periods of time. You can play games that work on sustained growth multiple times per day safely. Instead, exercise on soft surfaces, for example: Grass Sand Dirt paths or trails Stretching of soft ligaments at too early an age, strains on young, growing joints, and carrying too much weight on their overall framework can and will harm your young puppy. This leads to problems in adulthood, which you could avoid! Remember to watch for: Panting heavily with rapid breath Lagging on their walks for longer than usual Stopping on walks and standing Lying down on their belly or side If your dog is hyperactive and displays excessive chewing and destructive behavior, they may need engaging brain stimulation to help them use their brains to engage in their environments constructively. Ideally, you also need to teach them basic commands and house manners. Start now with basic obedience training to avoid later behavioral issues. Eventually, your active, adult GSD will need at least 2 walks of 45 minutes each source. Other great ways to exercise your German Shepherd puppy include working on their balance, enjoying mental stimulation, and playing gently with toys they love. Until your vet clears your dog as having their bones fully fused this is around 12 to 18 months of age , activity should be cautious and slow-paced. Up to twelve months of age, natural free running is the best way to exercise German Shepherds. With free running, your dog is off-leash and can stop or slow as they wish. Limit and monitor on-leash walks and activity while your German Shepherd is growing. When walking on a leash, allow them to Walk at their own pace Stop and start as they please Sniff around leisurely to explore the grass, flowers, and trees Lay down, roll around, and dig in approved digging places Use a no-pull harness with a design that allows for natural shoulder movement to avoid unnatural gait development. Try this padded no-pull harness on your German Shepherd to avoid any neck injuries to her while she is young. This design also limits pulling and helps teach nice leash walking manners. The handle on the back of the no-pull harness makes it easy to grab your pup to stop them from running into a hazard or just to catch them! Read more helpful information on the benefits and disadvantages of using a harness or a collar to help you choose the right equipment for walking your new puppy. There are plenty of other ideas to try with your new baby German Shepherd. Even better? You can find so many ways to learn what your new German Shepherd puppy likes to play with for their fun and games! Keep reading for a German Shepherd puppy exercise chart and specific, step-by-step fun games to keep your new pup happy and healthy. Exercising puppies heavily too early in life may lead to joint damage. This is especially likely in large breeds with rapidly growing and heavily loaded joints, such as your GSD. High-Impact Activity to Avoid Jumping, especially from couches, furniture, or cars Twisting such as chasing a toy that wildly moves in many directions Exercising over hard or uneven ground especially sidewalks and asphalt Keep exercise short and frequent, as this is more beneficial than long, infrequent periods of activity. The link has been copied! Is it possible to tire out a German Shepherd? This is a question many Shepherd owners have found themselves asking on more than one occasion. German Shepherds are naturally high-energy dogs and few families are physically active enough to keep up with them. This begs the question, how much exercise does a German Shepherd need? And the next one, is it possible for them to get enough? While it may not seem like it sometimes, it is definitely possible for German Shepherds to get enough exercise. Overexercising can actually instigate the hip dysplasia problems that the breed is already prone to. Thus, it is important to know how much exercise your German Shepherd should be getting — and what kind. By the end of this article, you'll know exactly how to get your pup some quality, healthy exercise. Originally, they were bred for hard work on the farm, herding and guarding flocks of sheep. They would spend hours each day keeping the flock together, which requires a lot of running. Plus, they were constantly on alert for danger and ready to neutralize threats to their charges. These high-energy dogs need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. For most dogs, this translates to at least 90 minutes of exercise each day. This can happen in bursts throughout the day and a wide variety of high-energy activities count. This includes taking them for walks or runs, hiking, playing fetch, agility classes, and so much more. If you're an active person looking for a running or hiking buddy, a German Shepherd is a perfect dog for you! They have the energy and endurance to keep up with you on long walks or runs. German Shepherds also make great agility dogs - they love to jump, run, and play! If you're looking for a fun way to exercise your German Shepherd and yourself! Maybe you have a hard time sitting still or concentrating on a task. You might even feel a little anxious. Whatever it is, the frustration dissipates as soon as you go for a good run. German Shepherds are like that — all the time. However, individual needs vary. These can be based on factors such as age, general health, overall fitness level and habits, and more. They may try to get your attention by barking, whining, or jumping up on you. Perhaps they pace back and forth or otherwise appear anxious. Excessive Chewing or Digging With those feelings of restlessness pushing them, dogs start to look for ways to burn off their excess energy. Unfortunately for us, this usually means they start digging up the yard or chewing on the furniture. Whatever is within a bored German Shepherd's reach has no hope for escape. Excessive Barking Another annoying method they will use to burn off excess energy is to bark at everything that moves. They may be trying to give themselves a job to do, seeking attention out of boredom, or both. Weight Gain Just like people, a lack of exercise puts German Shepherds at risk of gaining weight. This is especially true if they have free access to food. They may eat more out of pure boredom. Unfortunately, these dogs are already susceptible to problems like hip dysplasia, which is greatly exacerbated by being overweight. Thus, they need plenty of exercise too. However, they need it in shorter, more frequent doses. Playful pups get a lot of it themselves as they run around and explore their world. However, you should provide about 5 minutes of formal exercise such as a walk for every month of their age. The best exercises for German Shepherd puppies are short walks or runs, playing fetch games, and swimming. These activities will help them burn off some of their energy while learning commands and socializing with other dogs. Exercise for Senior German Shepherds As dogs age, their muscles get weaker and their joints become more sensitive. Senior German Shepherds should get at least 20 minutes of exercise a day, but no more than 60 minutes. The best type of exercise for senior German Shepherds is walking or slow jogging. Swimming is also a great exercise for a senior German Shepherd as it puts no strain on their joints. Other forms of low-impact exercise for senior German Shepherds include playing fetch and agility training. Just make sure to keep the activity level low and short, and never push them too hard. The Best Type of Exercise for German Shepherds The best type of exercise for German shepherds is a combination of aerobic activity and mental stimulation. Aerobic activity is important for German Shepherds because it helps to keep their heart and lungs healthy. Mental stimulation is also vital for preventing boredom. In addition to daily walks or runs, German shepherds also benefit from other forms of exercise, such as active games like fetch or tug-of-war, swimming, and agility training. If you have the space, it might be helpful to set up an agility course in your yard. Another great option is to enroll your dog in dog sports. If you want to really give your German Shepherd a workout, dog sports such as agility or flyball are excellent. These activities will tire your pup out both physically and mentally. You can also get dog toys that are specifically designed to be mentally stimulating for pups. These are helpful for days when you are short on time, but should not take the place of regular exercise. If you like to be active, include your pup! Take your dog hiking with you and give him a chance to explore different terrain and new areas. The Fi GPS collar is a great tool for tracking how much exercise your dog gets each day. They are equipped with an activity monitor that keeps track of your dog's walks, when they go for walks, how long they exercise, and even when they sleep. Using the app, you can check your dog's activity levels and sleep patterns in real time. German shepherds are versatile dogs that can excel at any type of exercise, so get creative and have fun with it. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! You might also like. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? Making sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is really important for keeping them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can not only keep them in good shape, but it can also help improve their behaviour and well-being. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs , originally bred for working and guarding flocks of sheep, and more recently used by military and police forces. All this means that German Shepherds are among the most high-energy dogs out there. Of course, their exercise needs can vary based on a number of factors including age, fitness level, general health, food intake and more. That said, most German Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing. To get an exercise goal tailored to your dog, simply download the free PitPat app and enter their details. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? This is especially true for this breed since they are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. As a rule of thumb, puppies will need five minutes of formal exercise such as walkies for every month of their age. These walks should be opportunities to explore their environment, work on training and good behaviour outdoors, and socialise with other people and dogs in a controlled manner. How much exercise does a senior German Shepherd need? You can also set your own goals manually in case they have higher or lower exercise needs. What types of exercise are best for German Shepherds? German Shepherds excel at all sorts of exercise and canine sports thanks to their working background. In addition to their daily walks, you could try:. How to exercise your German shepherd so they get enough activity What kind of exercise is best for a German shepherd? How much exercise does a German shepherd need? Remember, this is just an average! Although exercise needs vary from dog to dog, German shepherds are an athletic, high-energy breed that needs several hours of activity per day. Recommended Videos Keep in mind that your German shepherd needs both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Puzzle toys can be a helpful tool, though more energetic pups may prefer something like agility challenges. The idea is to give him a task that helps him feel satisfied and accomplished when he finally achieves it — sometimes just a good run together can do the trick. These are some of the most common symptoms of a sedentary lifestyle: 1. Destructive behavior Coming home to a room full of torn-up papers and other destruction is understandably frustrating, but it might also be a cause for concern. If chaotic behaviors seem to increase, especially suddenly, your pup might be redirecting the excess energy that would otherwise be released through exercise, work, or play. In fact, a bored shepherd may even try to herd you! Dogs also bark when looking for a reaction from someone in their environment. They may do this when bored, restless, or trying to communicate. It could simply be one way of expressing hyperactivity — in the same ways restless people tap their foot or pace — or it could be your furry friend trying to initiate petting or play. As cute as a chubby pup might be, carrying extra pounds definitely is not healthy for them. Poor physical health can be a precursor to mental problems like depression, which leaves a pup unmotivated, unhappy, and sometimes unwilling to exercise. He may lose interest in playtime and his other favorite things, or he may even act lethargic and sleepy. Of course, you might want to take them to a vet to eliminate the possibility of illness or injury. Some of these activities check off both physical and mental needs, but your dog will appreciate having a variety of activities as well. Even training can be fun and confidence-building for your dog — so, what are you waiting for? Editors' Recommendations. Sep 06, Puppies need exercise to develop healthy bones, muscles and hearts. Exercise goes a long way to help curb anxiety and behavior issues related to boredom. But you may have heard that too much exercise can be harmful. How much exercise is necessary, how much is too much, and what kinds of exercise should you be doing? As a general rule, your puppy knows best. Normal puppy play is okay, and you should never feel as though you should stop your puppy from playing on its own accord. Short walks are also okay, as long as your idea of a short walk isn't 3 miles every morning! Short games of fetch and tug are also okay. Fetch is especially hard on the body because most dogs rapidly accelerate to go after the ball and rapidly decelerate once they get to it, so good throws is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises. Tug is also hard on the body, so minutes is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises as well. Swimming is a great, low-impact exercise. Just make sure your puppy doesn't ingest too much water while swimming. It's also recommended that you not play fetch in the water because dogs can accidentally ingest a lot of water when retrieving toys thrown into bodies of water. Examples of exercises that are too rigorous for puppies are long hikes, running steps, long games of fetch, long walks, running, jogging, weight pull and pulling carts of any kind, wearing vests with anything over a few ounces in it for anything other than a short stroll, flyball, and inappropriate amounts of agility training. All of these things are stressful on soft, growing bones and joints and can result in hip and elbow dysplasia and musculoskeletal deformities, diseases and injuries. As a rule of thumb, don't exceed 5 minutes for each month of the puppy's age of acceptable exercise no more than twice a day. For instance, 15 minutes of exercise twice a day is ideal for a 3-month-old puppy, while 20 minutes twice a day is ideal for a 4-month-old puppy. As a general rule, you can start building up puppies to adult levels of exercise once they turn 9 months of age if they're not expected to grow over 25lbs. By a year they can be exercised as an adult as long as you properly build up their stamina. For medium and large breeds, you can begin to build them up to adult levels of exercise by 15 months and it's safe to exercise them as adults once they turn 18 months old. German Shepherd dogs will naturally travel in a cantering-lope rather than a slow walk. That means that it is imperative that you train your puppy early on how to walk on a leash by your side without pulling. German Shepherds are a powerful breed and are capable of dragging handlers who aren't strong enough to hold them back. Eliminate the possibility of a physical tug of war by relying on solid training instead. Remember, exercise is also great for keeping hip and elbow joints stabilized in German Shepherd Dogs. Many large breeds are known to suffer from hip and elbow problems later in life, but dysplasia seems to unfairly target the German Shepherd. Regular exercise can help to build muscle around joints to protect them. The more muscle, the less stress on the joint. Make sure you keep your puppies lean, well hydrated, and wait an hour or two after your puppy eats before exercise. If you stick by these rules, you lessen the chances of hip and elbow dysplasia, panosteitis, strains, sprains, ligament injuries, bloat, obesity, heart disease and arthritis. Also keep the temperature in mind and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stop exercise if your puppy no longer wants to play or stops to rest and everything should be fine. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. German Shepherds are an extremely active high energy dog and require at least one hour a day of energy-burning activity, but more is preferred. The German Shepherd is also very intelligent so it is important to challenge their minds. They learn new skills quickly making them easy to train with the right guidance. German Shepherd Exercise Requirements There are three main types of exercise and activity you must provide your German Shepherd every day. Daily walk 2. Mental stimulation German Shepherd Walking Time The daily walk is essential for a German Shepherd not only to release some pent-up energy. The walk allows your German Shepherd to stimulate the mind with the sights, sounds and smells they come across. The length of the walk is only limited by your time and energy as a German Shepherd can go all day long. Ideally, the minimum should be 30 to 45 minutes daily. This can be just once a day, or two walks a day would be better if your schedule allows. Dogs also like routine, so try to schedule the walk for around the same time each day. Daily walks are much better than nothing all week and a big walk at the weekend. If your German Shepherd has good recall and comes on command, walks at the park off the leash are ideal. Alternatively, you can use a retractable leash to allow them more freedom while maintaining control. In general, German Shepherds are obedient and usually have good recall if trained. You can add extra resistance to the walk by using a weighted vest or dog backpack. This is more than sufficient to tire them and strengthen their muscles without overworking them. Other ways of increasing the resistance on the walk are to walk on sand or include uphill sections in the walk. Ideally, you need to find activities that can burn energy in a short period of time and use these skills. This can include high-intensity games and strength training is recommended to keep their muscles in peak condition. By keeping the muscles strong they will support the joints and tendons preventing injury. Providing the right type of toys for German Shepherd is also a great way to provide exercise and mental stimulation for them. For the best type of toys for German Shepherds see here. These are some of the recommended activities and exercise ideas to play with your German Shepherd. Flirt Pole A Flirt pole is like a giant cat tickler for dogs. It has a long handle with a bungy type rope with a lure or toy attached to the end. You simply move the lure along the ground around in circles or in different directions as your dog chases it. This activity is ideal for a German Shepherd as it works the whole body and strengthens their muscles. It is important that this be a controlled exercise. For a full guide to flirt pole exercise for dogs see here. German Shepherds are generally ball or toy crazy can play this for hundreds of throws. A great alternative is to use an Automatic Ball Launcher so your dog can play Fetch by themselves. As the German Shepherd is highly trainable as long as you focus their attention they learn to use this quickly. They come in a variety of sizes, styles and are also available with a handle or rope attached for tug of war. Being a herding dog this is a great activity that caters to their natural herding instincts. Check out the video to see what great exercise and fun they are for dogs. Frisbee Toss Most dogs can chase and catch a ball. But a Frisbee requires a little bit more skill, coordination, and timing. German Shepherds look spectacular playing this due to their agility. Roll the Frisbee on the ground towards your dog. They will instinctually want to grab it in his mouth. If you feel like your dog is ready to go to the next level, toss the disc a little higher and further. Backyard agility Set up an agility or obstacle course in your backyard. You can use items you have around the home, build your own agility or you can get reasonably priced agility sets on Amazon. You can include tasks such as the weave, hurdle jumps, tunnels or jumping through hoops or a platform to jump on and stay. Stair Exercise A good energy burner if you have stairs in your home. Have them return down the stairs at a slower pace to avoid injury. Walking up stairs or a hill strengthens the rear legs as the full body weight of your dog is on each leg as the step. As they descend the stairs they are using the opposing muscles for stability. For more on stair exercise for dogs see here. Running, biking or skating with your dog The faster your dog is moving the more energy they will release. Try running, biking or skating with your dog to really get them moving. As the German Shepherd has good levels of stamina and can go for long distances, they can make great running partners. Just be sure to build up the distance and intensity of the activity over time to prevent causing injury to your dog. Swimming Many German Shepherds are keen swimmers. Swimming is a great exercise for a German Shepherd as it burns energy and uses all the muscles groups, in particular, the front legs and shoulders. It is a good exercise for dogs recovering from injury. For more on swimming for German Shepherds see here. Tug of War A firm favorite of all strong dogs. Make them crouch and pull back to use extra energy. Ensure that this is a controlled game and they release when you want them to. Also, a great way to build muscle and strength. Spring Pole A spring pole is simply a spring connected to a rope that hangs from a tree branch or beam with a lure or toy attached to the end. This allows your dog to play tug of war with him or herself even if you are not there. Popular with a lot of dogs that love a good game of tug of war. Dog toys that move on their own There are many dog toys available that shake, rattle, roll and move about on their own. This activity would be best as a supervised and control game as a dog like the German Shepherd could destroy these type of toys. Self Playing Dog Toys There are a variety of dog toys that your dog can use to play by themselves. This way your dog can still get some physical activity and mental stimulation without your direct involvement. Play with other dogs Provide the opportunity for your German Shepherd to play with other dogs. This is not only great to burn energy and stimulate their mind, but teaches them important social skills. Not all German Shepherds are dog-friendly, so ensure yours is to prevent the possibility of fighting. Dog sports There are many dog sports that your German Shepherd would enjoy including agility or fly ball. Consider enrolling your German Shepherd in a local club. You can enter as a serious competitor or simply for fun. Provide a digging area or pit Many dogs love to dig including many German Shepherds. Just be aware that if the weather is warm and you use sand, it may get hot. You can wet it down with the hose if it is. All dogs need an outlet for their minds. If they are not provided the opportunity to challenge their minds they will come up with their own ways to achieve this. This usually manifests itself in bad behavior such as excessive barking, digging, escaping and other destructive behaviors. Some ways to provide mental stimulation and enrichment include; Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys are ideal for dogs like the German Shepherd to challenge their minds and test their problem-solving skills. Due to their high intelligence, try to find puzzle toys that are a bit more challenging as they tend to work these out quite quickly. In addition to puzzle toys, Kongs for dogs are another great way to get your German Shepherd to solve a problem and challenge the mind. Scenting and nose games German Shepherds can have a keen nose. Playing scenting and nose games helps to provide mental stimulation. Chew Toys Provide your German Shepherd with good strong chew toys. Chewing is a great way to occupy them. In addition, chewing releases endorphins and helps to relax a dog. Many dogs hold stress in the jaw. For more on the benefits of chewing and the best chew toys click here. Learning Teaching new commands and tricks is also excellent to provide mental enrichment. A popular game that involves learning is to teach them the names of their toys. Dogs can learn hundreds of words and names. For more ideas to provide mental stimulation and enrichment for a German Shepherd see here. Food enrichment Turn mealtimes into an opportunity for your German Shepherd to get a mental challenge and enrichment. Instead of feeding them from a bowl, give them activities that require them to work for their food. To learn more about feeding enrichment for dogs see here. To learn more about environmental enrichment for dogs see here. Over exercised dog symptoms German Shepherds can go hard and keep going, often not knowing when to stop. With any dog, it is possible to over-exercise them, especially in hot weather. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a dog that has overdone it. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? The exercise suggestions above relate to a healthy adult German Shepherd. The exercise needs of a puppy are quite different. With puppies, their bones, muscle, and joints are still growing and developing. Overly strenuous walks are not necessary and in fact, could possibly cause harm. An activity that is high impact on the joints should also be avoided. The best exercise for a young puppy is free play with age-appropriate toys. Socializing with other puppies or friendly adult dogs is a great way to burn some of that puppy energy along with teaching them the social skills they need. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older you can take them for short informal walks allowing them to sniff and explore and get used to being on a leash. Check with your vet when it is alright to venture out to the park or street. The general rule of thumb for walking a puppy is around 5 minutes for every month of age. So, for example for a 4-month-old puppy, a walk of 15 minutes to 20 minutes is enough. Monitor your German Shepherd puppy on the walk for signs such as lagging behind, lying down or panting. End the walk if they seem too tired. Mental stimulation is important for puppies and can tire them just as much as physical activity. For more on mental stimulation for puppies see here. However, it is still important that they remain reasonably active to keep their joints and muscles mobile and to manage their weight. Many dogs develop arthritis as they age. Exercise for them becomes a balancing act. It is important to keep their joints mobile and manage weight, but too much can make them sore. German Shepherds are also a breed that is prone to hip dysplasia. In conclusion, how much exercise does a German Shepherd need The German Shepherd is high energy, strong and has good levels of stamina. They are also very smart and need to have their minds occupied as well. It is crucial to provide adequate physical and mental exercise and activity to release pent-up energy and prevent boredom. A minimum of 45 to 60 minutes a day of exercise plus purposeful activity including muscle strengthening and activities that provide mental stimulation is recommended. The cost of not doing so can be an unhappy and frustrated dog. This can lead to behavior issues such as barking, digging, escaping and destructive behavior. Author Joseph Coleman A lifelong writer and proud dog dad. Joseph started this blog dedicated to helping other dog owners find accurate information on how to keep their pets at their healthiest through exercise and nutrition. His passion for all things canine shines through in his writing, and he believes that every dog deserves the best possible care. If you're a dog owner looking for reliable advice on how to keep your pup healthy and happy, be sure to check out Joseph's work. Puppies Establishing an efficient exercise routine for a German Shepherd puppy is extremely important for your GSD to live a healthy lifestyle. While there is no exact science to knowing your German Shepherd puppy exercise limits, it is best to slowly ease into a routine and your puppy will gain stamina over time. Dogs are creatures of habit and love a routine. Accordingly, if you normally walk your puppy first thing in the morning, your pup will start to expect and look forward to those morning walks as soon as you roll out of bed. Try and establish an exercise routine that you can maintain long term, so your puppy can grow to learn the routine. The American Kennel Club UK recommends two exercise sessions of 5 minutes per month of age during puppyhood 1. When Allie was a puppy, I found short walks multiple times a day worked well. I started Allie with short minute walks times a day as an 8-week-old puppy. This served two purposes, to get some of her energy out, as well as getting her used to walking on a leash. Finding the Right Length of Walks for Your Puppy Although there are many recommendations as to how long to walk your German Shepherd puppy, it is best to look to your puppy for clues on its limits. Start with 10 minutes, 2 times a day. If you find your puppy is still a ball on energy increase it to 15 minutes, or you can add in a third minute walk. You want to find the walking time that is right for your individual GSD puppy as all puppies are all different and will require different amounts of exercise. Keep in mind, that it can be dangerous to push your German Shepherd puppy beyond his or her limits at a young age. If your German Shepherd puppy show signs of being tired or exhausted, stop the walk immediately and allow your pup to rest. Final Thoughts Establishing a solid exercise routine for your German Shepherd puppy is an important step in establishing the framework for a healthy lifestyle. In addition to walks, I would include short play sessions in the yard with a ball or play with toys in the house as well. The most important thing with walking a German Shepherd puppy is to start with short walks and play sessions and build on that process as your puppy grows.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Borador Highlights The Borador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Border Collie or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Boradors are brown, black, tan, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Boradors are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. Most Boradors are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. This makes them better as companions than as watchdogs. Any nipping related to herding tendencies can be easily curbed with positive reinforcement and training. Boradors are generally great with kids, other pets, and all members of the family. Playtime between dogs and kids, as always, should be supervised. Borador History The Borador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers in the early s, likely in North America. Breeders likely started to cross-breed the Labrador Retriever and the Border Collie to create a smart, family-friendly dog. Both parent breeds are working and herding dogs, and when combined, they make for an intelligent, affectionate pup. Breeders continued to create Boradors as demand for the mixed breed dogs climbed. Even though the Borador mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Borador rescues, or check with breed-specific Labrador Retriever or Border Collie rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Borador Size As the Borador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Border Collie and Labrador Retriever parents, you can expect Boradors to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 40 to 64 pounds and range in height from 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Borador Personality Many Borador enthusiasts stress that the mixed breed is truly a family dog. The good-sized pooch is eager to please, and they are just as happy to participate in agility contests as they are to snuggle on the couch—as long as its with their family. In fact, they are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. Since they are smart and highly energetic dogs, Boradors do best with lots of activity and stimulation. If not properly exercised, the Borador could fall into some bored destructive behaviors. Prevent unwanted chewing and digging by providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your Borador. Borador Health The Borador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Border Collie and Labrador also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Borador suffer from include : Collie Eye Anomaly. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Also known as a borador, or border Lab, this energetic and clever mix combines the best traits of its parent breeds. If you are looking for an affectionate and lively companion dog that loves children and can keep up with your active lifestyle, check out the border Lab! Medium to large in size, these pups are best suited for active families and homes with access to securely fenced backyards. Take this to heart. We had a borador who was an absolute escape artist. He found his way out of our backyard and to the local park on nearly a daily basis. This exceptionally smart mix craves attention and needs a lot of mental stimulation to stay on the best behavior. When bored or left to their own devices, border Labs can become destructive and resort to chewing or digging just to have fun. If you want an outgoing, eager-to-please, loyal, and smart mixed-breed dog for your family, read on! Border Collie Lab Overview Size — 19 to 24 inches tall, weighs between 40 and 65 pounds Coat — Short to medium-long double coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate to heavy shedding Lifespan — 10 to 15 years Temperament — Eager-to-please, outgoing, clever, and energetic Trainable — Highly trainable but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one to two hours of activity every day Best For — Active families and people, and homes with outdoor space What Is A Labrador Border Collie Mix? As you may have guessed, the Labrador border collie mix is a cross-breed created by mixing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred border collie. While both parent breeds are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the borador is considered a designer dog breed. Border Collie And Lab Mix Appearance Like all other mixed-breed dogs, no two border Labs are the same and there is no way of knowing exactly what you will get when mixing a border collie and a Lab. Most, however, have a Lab-like build, although they are on the thin side. When it comes to the head and general features, this mix takes more after the Labrador, but they do have the slightly pointed nose of a border collie. However, nothing is set in stone, and the only thing you can do is wait and see how your border collie and Lab mix puppy will grow up to be. With that being said, there are some things you can expect from your mixed breed, mainly when it comes to size and coat color. Size As a mix between Labrador retriever and border collie dog breeds, expect your border Lab to be a medium to large size dog. Most border collie Lab mixes are between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. There are yellow, brown, black, and fox red Labrador retrievers , but border collies come in many different colors and markings. Most border Labs have brown, black, or tan coats and white markings like their border collie parent. The amount of white fur varies greatly from one borador to the next, with some dogs having completely solid coats and others having several white markings. Coat Depending on which parent they take after, boradors can have short to medium-long coats. Having a double coat means your Lab mix is going to shed moderately all year round, and lose more hair during the shedding season. Most border Labs are outgoing and people-loving dogs that make amazing family pets. In fact, this mix is so friendly that they will likely meet everyone with a wagging tail. They generally become fast friends with children and are very gentle with them. However, thanks to their border collie ancestry, some boradors may try to herd and nip smaller children or other pets. If your mix exhibits this trait, know you can curb their nipping tendencies with training and positive reinforcement. As an offspring of the border collie — the smartest dog breed in the world — the borador tends to be pretty smart as well. Aim to take your border collie Lab mix for at least two long walks every day and also include several playing sessions throughout the day. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, and flyball are some great ways to exercise your borador and keep it mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab mix, Maffy was high, high, high energy. Obviously inherited from the Border Collie side of the equation. However, a Lab is no slouch when it comes to energy level. Caring For A Borador As with any other dog, you should develop a care routine as soon as you bring a border collie Lab mix puppy home. Exercise Ideally, boradors need around one or two hours of exercise every day. Activities such as running, swimming, jogging, cycling, and hiking are just some ways you can keep your mix exercised and in good shape. Boradors also excel at agility, which is a great way to keep your dog both physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation Since they are very smart, border Labs do best with lots of mental stimulation. If not properly challenged, your mix will become destructive and turn to digging and chewing to relieve boredom. A word of caution, a bored Lab border collie mix might be a recipe for disaster! You might return home from work only to find your shoes, pillows, or carpets chewed and shredded to pieces. Invest in durable chews, interesting puzzle toys to stimulate your dog , and spend some time every day interacting and playing with your pooch to keep them mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab got into all kinds of trouble in the yard digging holes and hiding treats throughout the yard. Another game he enjoyed playing was dropping his ball into the swimming pool. Then wait till it floats to the middle then jump in after it. Without mental stimulation Boradors definitely invent their own games. Companionship Eager-to -lease, loving, and friendly border Labs are true companions and are happy as long as they are involved in all family activities. These dogs crave attention and companionship, and they are best suited for homes where there is someone who can spend a better part of the day playing and interacting with them. When left at home alone a lot, this mix can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. Grooming When compared to other Lab mixes, the borador is a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Although they shed moderately all year round, their coats are easy to groom and need to be brushed two times a week. Brushing your mix regularly with a slicker brush will help you remove loose hair and keep the shedding to a minimum. Diet An ideal diet for a border Lab should be formulated for medium to large size dogs with high energy. Make sure to feed your mix with age-appropriate high-quality dog food that contains all essential micro and macronutrients. Avoid free feeding your mix and set up a regular feeding schedule to prevent obesity and health problems associated with it. Although border Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to some of the same health problems that affect Labrador retrievers and border collies. This can be extremely painful for a dog, causing arthritis, difficulty walking, and lameness later in life. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital eye disease that occurs in border collies and affects the retina, sclera, and choroid. CEA is caused by a recessive gene defect and can be a mild condition or cause blindness. Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce the hormone thyroxine. Life Expectancy The border Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. When properly cared for and taken to regular veterinary checkups, some boradors can reach senior years completely healthy. We had a Border Collie Lab mix that we rescued from our local animal shelter. They told us he was approximately 2 years old when we rescued him. He lived with us for 18 years! Add on the approximately 2 years he lived before he came to our home he lived a whopping 20 years! True to their parent breeds, border Labs are eager to please and very intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. Like all other dogs, the Lab border collie mix responds well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Start training and socializing your borador puppy as soon as you bring them home when they are eight to 12 weeks old. While your pup might seem small, you can start potty training and teach them basic commands. Border Labs make truly wonderful companions and pets to active people or families with children. Couch potatoes be warned; this designer hybrid needs a lot of exercise and will keep you on your toes. Due to their energetic nature and high exercise needs, boradors need a home with access to a fenced yard where they can run around and play. Buying A Border Collie And Lab Mix Puppy If you want to purchase a border collie and Lab mix puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to visit their facilities. A reputable breeder will let you meet the mother and all the puppies. Check your local shelter and rescue groups to see if they have any border Labs. You can also contact Labrador retriever and border collie breed-specific rescue groups since they often take care of mixed-breed dogs too. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland where they helped fishermen catch fish. Universally loved for their kind, friendly, fun, and loyal nature, Labs make great family pets and companions. Highly intelligent, gentle, and eager-to-please, Labrador retrievers are favored as service dogs and are often seen assisting people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Border Collie Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, the border collie is a working and herding dog breed. Originally bred to herd sheep, border collies are a highly intelligent and very trainable dog breed. Naturally athletic and energetic, border collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. Boradors are good companions and amazing pets to active people and families with children. They tend to be friendly, loving, eager-to-please, and smart, which makes training fairly easy even for novice owners. As long as they are properly exercised and provided with the attention they need, border Labs make wonderful pets. Are boradors aggressive? Boradors are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. Inherently friendly and kind, the collie Lab mix gets along well with children with whom they become fast friends. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Conclusion Extremely clever, eager-to-please, and friendly, the border collie Lab mix makes a great pet for active people and families with children. True to its parent breeds, this mix has a lot of energy and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Boradors are best suited for: Outdoorsy people and active families with children Homes with securely fenced backyards People who can interact and play with their pup every day We told you a little about our Border Collie Lab mix, Maffy, but how about you? Have you ever owned a Borador? What was your dog like? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. The borador, a Labrador retriever and border collie mix, displays some of the most sought-after traits of its parent breeds. Like their parent breeds, boradors are extremely active and will do best in families that provide a lot of exercise and social interaction. Appearance Because the borador is a mixed breed that inherits traits from both parent breeds, what a pup can look like can vary wildly. If a borador takes after his Lab side, he can have a short coat in black, brown, or yellow. Or, if they lean more toward their border collie parent, they can have a medium-length coat that's solid black or black and white. Depending on the traits inherited from their border collie and labrador retriever parents, boradors can stand 18—25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30—70 pounds. Most border collie and Lab mixes, Derse says, tend to be on the smaller end of the range. But, she adds, "It depends on whether an [shorter, stockier] English lab or an American lab [which is taller and has a more athletic build], was the parent. Just like with their looks, boradors will inherit these traits from their parent breeds. In other words, these are dogs that need jobs, Derse says. Boradors are energetic and intelligent ; without outlets to channel their physical and mental energy, Derse says boradors can be prone to "naughty behaviors" like chewing the sofa. They are especially affectionate with their families and appreciate opportunities to tag along on all kinds of activities. Overall, Derse calls the mixed breed "well tempered" with one caveat: Boradors must have healthy outlets to channel their abundant energy. They'll enjoy fast-paced, heart-pumping activities that require problem solving—with training, your borador might just be the next agility champion. Living Needs When it comes to their dream living situation, boradors have one wish: space. Your borador might romp around the backyard solo for a short period, but sniffing around the fence line solo won't be enough to fulfill his need for exercise. You'll need to provide plenty of opportunities for him to burn off his boundless energy, from long—very, very long—walks and trips to the dog park to epic games of fetch. The adage, "A tired dog is a good dog," definitely applies to the borador. Whether you're hiking , running , or swimming , a borador will want to be right by your side. They are also naturals at dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and dock diving. Basically, the more exercise, the better. Although boradors are easygoing dogs that will happily nap on the sofa after a good workout, they are probably not the right dogs for apartment life. In fact, Derse says, "If you live in an apartment and you're thinking about [a borador], you might want to rethink it. But with early and consistent training and adult supervision during puppy and kiddo playtime , a borador can quickly learn that kids are not something to herd. Training is a great way to give them a mental challenge—but it's not just about teaching basic cues like " sit ," " stay ," and "leave it. Labs tend to have short, straight, and dense coats, while border collies have longer, coarse, often wavy coats; boradors can have some combination of these coat types. Both parent breeds are heavy shedders , which means boradors will need regular grooming, regardless of which coat type they inherit. Expect to brush your borador daily to remove dead hair and keep it off your couch. Thanks to their love of outdoor adventures, boradors will also need regular baths. Frequent nail trims , routine dental care , and monthly preventives to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease are also an essential part of caring for your borador. Health The typical borador lifespan is 10—15 years and they are typically healthy pups. However, these border collie and Labrador retriever mixes can develop a few health issues their parent breeds are prone to. This includes: Hip dysplasia: Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia. The condition, which causes grinding and pain, is diagnosed when the hip joint and socket don't fit together. There is no cure, but physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease the pain. Sometimes surgery is needed. Ear infections: Excessive head shaking, pawing or scratching the affected ear, odor, discharge, redness, swelling or scabs in the ear canal are common signs of ear infections. Thanks to their floppy ears and love of swimming, boradors may be diagnosed with ear infections more often than breeds with small, pricked ears. If your borador has chronic ear infections, your vet may also look for underlying causes such as allergies , thyroid disease , or other endocrine disorders and autoimmune disorders. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is an inherited disorder that causes recurrent seizures. It's the most common neurological condition diagnosed in dogs. While the condition isn't painful, it can cause dogs to feel anxious and confused. Medication can help control seizures. Keeping up with regular veterinarian appointments will keep your pup healthy, and make sure to consult your vet if you notice signs of any of the above conditions. History Both border collies and Labs have centuries-long histories. Border collies are known as indispensable working dogs, herding sheep and other livestock in the Scottish Highlands and in Wales for generations. Labs were also bred to work , though on the other side of the pond; they were used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company in Newfoundland, Canada. Given that the border collie and Labrador retriever consistently rank among the U. In fact, there were likely a lot of Lab and border collie crosses before anyone dubbed the mixed breed a "borador. But one thing is certain: These outgoing, active, athletic dogs are the ideal companions for active owners who want enthusiastic four-legged companions for outdoor adventures. Was this page helpful? The Border Collie Lab mix is another great family pet. They have a long lifespan, are easy-going, child-friendly, and pet-friendly with a little training, making them an all around great family dog. While this energetic breed does have its mellow lab side, most of them do need good daily exercise to stay balanced and happy and not destroy your home. These three ingredients are the recipe for successful relationship with the Lab Border Collie mix. The appearance of the Collie Lab mix will be a medium length double coat, with white markings or patches. A double coat is a finer layer of shorter fur closer to the skin and a longer and thicker coat on top, kind of like our clothing and then our outer coat, but they wear theirs all the time. Training the Border Collie Lab Mix will be quick and easy if you put in the time and effort into it. When they are puppies, you need to train them for the bare minimum of 30 minutes a day and preferably more. Training them non-stop for thirty minutes will be a hard task especially for a puppy. So you can break it up into 10 minutes of training and 5 minutes playing. It does not matter how long you are playing around with them; just make sure to train them on a daily basis. With a few training sessions, your Lab mixed Border Collie could be trained not to jump on people, to softly play, not to bite, and many more commands. Just as long as you remember to properly and frequently train your puppy at a young age. Exercise Needs For the Bordador While the Border Collie Lab mix is a puppy running or walking them up and down your driveway or backyard is alright! But gradually give them more lots of exercise by walking them up and down the neighborhood. You want to gradually get them up to 45 to an hour of hard exercise but this is only when they are adults. If you give them long runs, jogs, or walks as a puppy or teen, you can run the very severe risk of severely damaging or ruining their tendons. So only go for long journeys when your dog is about fully grown in order to save yourself from that painful experience. Socializing the Border Collie Mixed With Lab Socialization is the next step, and all pets need to be socialized no matter the size! Dogs need to know how to properly interact with other animals and humans. Dogs also need to get used to strange new things, like trash cans, bikes, other animals, and anything else that may be scary to them. A badly socialized Border Collie Lab can become a pill for everyone in the house and neighborhood. As a puppy take your Border Collie Lab mix out to the world. Allow them to experience cars, trucks, noises, people, and different smells. Never take your puppy to a dog park, dogs there can be unruly and may scar your dog for life of other dogs, humans, and or other animals. Another great reason to not take your dog to the park is that your dog has not had his or her protective shoots and may pick up diseases. They love anything and every one it would be hard for them not to be since both dog breeds are quite friendly! They are: Friendly. Breeders vs rescue dogs A Combined History Mixing dog breeds is not a new thing. In fact, cross-breeding has been around for centuries. But, it takes many years to create a distinct breed that is recognized and registered. Designer dogs are typically named based on the breeds used for mating. Border Collies and Labradors are both intelligent working dogs. They have been selectively bred for generations to choose dogs that are driven as well as cooperative, but in slightly different ways. Border Collies are a traditional herding breed mostly used by sheep farmers to control their unruly flocks. Labradors on the other hand spend more time waiting than working, then have bursts of energy fetching fallen birds over long distances and tricky terrain. Like many of the other designer breeds, the Borador has come into existence within the last 10 to 20 years in North America. By mixing the lovable Labrador with the hard-working Border Collie, breeders hoped to get the best of both worlds — an intelligent, energetic, and people-oriented dog that suits almost any role. Most Labradors are quite a bit bigger than Border Collies. But, your mix could fall anywhere between the sizes of its parents. Most Borador dogs will be somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males. While Labradors are seen with a solid yellow, brown, or black coat, this mix often takes on the distinct dual or tri-coloring of the Border Collie. You could also end up with a beautiful black Lab Border Collie mix. Black is a dominant coat color, so the black Lab Border Collie mix is one of the most common colors. This can be in a plain form, or bi-color pattern, such as a white and black Lab Border Collie mix. Grooming and Shedding The Border Collie parent can have long or short fur. Labs will have short dense fur. Your Borador mix could be anywhere inbetween. Both parent dogs are known to shed all year round, and heavily during hotter seasons. So, expect to find lots of fur around your home if you own one. Use a bristle or pin brush for grooming once or twice a week and use a slicker brush to remove any mats that you see. Especially if your dog spends a lot of time exercising outdoors. You may need to groom more frequently when shedding is at its heaviest. Border Collie Lab Mix Temperament These dogs can inherit some very unique and positive personality traits from their parent breeds. For starters, Collies are extremely intelligent. According to studies completed by the American Psychological Association, the dogs have the same mental abilities as a two to two-and-a-half-year-old child. While Labradors may act more like toddlers, and have a good deal of smarts themselves, what really stands out about them is their kindness, happiness, and generally easy-going attitudes. Socialization Early socialization is hugely important if you want to raise a healthy, happy, outgoing dog. This process involves exposing your puppy to other dogs and to different people when they are young. It is done so that your dog will not be fearful or aggressive around new people or dogs. Ideally, socialization should begin when your puppy is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Luckily, both the Border Collie and Labrador are known for their easy, kind temperament, so you should find this process easy and effective. Training Both Labradors and Border Collies are dogs with high levels of intelligence. So, a Borador is likely to become bored and disruptive if not properly entertained. Training can go a long way to help with this. There are various programs that can help you with training. Keep in mind that studies show that positive reinforcement or reward based training are best for your dog. Not only is it highly effective, but it reduces the incidence of problem behaviors and anxiety issues. Borador Energy Levels It should not come as a surprise that the Border Collie Lab mix also needs a fair amount of exercise. They are extremely active dogs that love to run, play, and exert energy for hours each day. The Lab part of the mix typically calms down the hyperactive nature of the Border Collie. But, it depends entirely on the traits they inherit. Some Borador mixes will still have strong herding instincts and could even try to herd young kids or other pets in the house! Border Collie and Labrador Health All dogs are at risk of certain illnesses. The Borador is no exception. Here are some health problems that potential owners should be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Breeds By Meg Marrs 6 min read September 24, Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. When you combine two already-awesome things, you usually wind up with something even better. And this is especially true when you are talking about mixed-breed dogs. For example, Labradoodles, chorkies and Gerberian Shepskies are a few of the most well-known and popular designer dogs, but few mixtures are as reliably awesome as the borador — a cross between a border collie and a Labrador retriever. Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world the most popular breed, according to the AKC. They are famous for being loving, fun, energetic and intelligent pups, and most people who can provide proper training and sufficient exercise fall in love with their labs. Although originally developed to help fishermen collect their nets and retrieve escaping fish, they also excel in hunting, therapy and bomb-sniffing contexts. Of course, labs also make fantastic family pets; they are gentle with children, friendly with strangers and simply love to hang out with their people. Labs are medium-sized dogs, who typically weigh somewhere in the to pound range. They have very thick, short- to medium-length hair and come in three different color forms: Black, golden and chocolate. Border Collies Border collies were originally used as herding dogs, but they also make great family pets. Border collies have one of the most well-developed work ethics of any breed, and they are very smart many authorities consider them the most intelligent breed. This means that you must keep them busy and stimulated, or else they may become destructive. Border collies are very good at a number of different jobs, and people frequently use them in agility, disc, obedience and tracking competitions. Most are very friendly and loving with their families, although they occasionally exhibit a bit of dog aggression. Border collies are covered in fairly long, soft hair, and they are generally black with white masks, chests and feet. However, some border collies also display patches of brown. Most weigh between about 30 and 50 pounds. Borador Traits and Characteristics While boradors can vary from individual to individual, most are relatively similar in terms of appearance, personality and skills. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape Boradors are medium-sized dogs, who are generally about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. However, all dogs are individuals, and some will fall outside of this range. Boradors usually have a lab-like build, although they are often on the thin side. Color Patterns Most boradors have black and white markings, like their border collie parent. However, the amount of white fur varies greatly, with some individuals being nearly black and others possessing several large, white patches. The most common places to see white on these dogs is the face and chest. Temperament Boradors are typically lovely dogs, who are sweet and affectionate with their families. While they will gladly bark at strange noises or people, they make friends quickly and generally get along with people and dogs alike. Neediness Boradors usually prefer to be with their pack as much as possible. This can lead to separation anxiety and other problems, if they are left alone for long periods of time. Image from Pinterest Intelligence As you may expect, when you cross two of the smartest dog breeds in the world , their offspring tend to be pretty sharp puppies. Make sure to have some dog puzzle toys on hand to keep those canine brains sharp! Energy Level Given the fact that both of their parent breeds are bursting with energy, it should come as no surprise that boradors are some of the most energetic dogs on the planet. Owners who are not willing to go on multiple walks and toss the ball for a while on a daily basis should look elsewhere for a pet. Boradors who do not get enough exercise and playtime often become very destructive and depressed. Training Potential Most boradors love to work with and please their person, so they are generally easy to train. However, their impressive intelligence can occasionally make training difficult, as they can be headstrong from time to time. Nevertheless, most boradors respond well to firm, consistent training based on positive reinforcement, so grab your clicker and a handful of treats and teach your borador a new trick! Health Profile Boradors are generally healthy dogs, who are not especially susceptible to many illnesses or ailments. Bloat can also be a concern, given their relatively deep chests, so encourage your dog to eat slowly consider investing in a slow eating bowl or — even better — start a hand feeding routine and insist on a period of calmness after meals. Maintenance Needs Boradors tend to have the short hair of their lab parent, which means they need relatively little grooming or maintenance. Lifespan The average lifespan of boradors can vary widely, but most probably live between 10 and 12 years. Best People and Families for Boradors The best families for boradors are active and love to get out and about with their pooch. They may not be the best choice for families that already have other pets particularly cats , although some seem to get along with other pets more than others. What kinds of things surprised you about your borador? Did she present any special challenges? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic dog to adopt into the family, then the Borador, which is a mix between a Labrador retriever and a border collie, might be a perfect choice! Attractive, intelligent, and friendly to a fault, these dogs have the perfect temperament for playing at home with the kids or accompanying their parents on epic adventures. However, they do need lots of love and attention to thrive. While there exists a diverse range of different types of Boradors, the most popular mix is between a black Labrador and a border collie. This typically results in a distinctive and sleek black pup, often with white accents. Always consider heading to your local shelter before purchasing a pup. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Boradors and decide whether they are the perfect pup to join your home. The breed was established in the s and has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the Western world ever since. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please make them ideal working dogs, and you will often see Labs in service dog roles such as disability assistance. Their composure makes them the ideal dog to accompany their owners into public spaces, though they are known as big shedders. The border collie is a herding dog that was developed along the Anglo-Scottish border. It was officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are both intelligent and athletic, which has made them favorites as sports dogs, particularly in sheepdog trials. It is believed that initial combinations of Labs and border collies were probably accidental, but breeders soon realized the combination made for a very desirable mix. While all kinds of Borador mixes exist, the most popular mix is between black Labradors and border collies, creating distinctive-looking black dogs with white accents. The term is not generally used for accidents, but rather specifically for these designer dogs that are emerging. However, it is important to differentiate between crossbreeds and pure breeds. Pure breeds tend to pass down physical and character traits in a very predictable way, making it possible to define the breed. When it comes to crossbred dogs, though, there is less consistency in the way characteristics manifest. It is possible to generalize to an extent about what to expect from a crossbred dog, and breeders do control for characteristics as much as possible. Luckily, when it comes to Boradors, you are working with two incredibly intelligent and friendly breeds, so the result always tends to be something special. Borador Appearance Labrador and border collie mixes are medium-to-large-sized dogs that tend to fall somewhere between the size of their two parents. Breeders typically make sure the mother is larger so they have no trouble passing the baby pups. Labradors tend to be between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Border collies are a bit smaller, reaching between 18 and 22 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 55 pounds. They tend to have a longer muzzle and a leaner physique, though this is not always easy to see through their medium-length hair. As a result, you can expect a Borador to be between 19 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Remember, you can get a better idea of the potential height and weight of a puppy by looking at their parents. Most Borador pups tend to have the slightly heavier build of the Labrador, though they are usually a little on the thin side. They also tend to have the broad face of their Lab parent, though with a longer, more pointed nose. You can usually expect your Borador puppy to be a mix of whatever color their parents were. Most puppies take on the more solid black color of their Lab parent coupled with the white markings of their border collie parent. So, if you are mixing a black Lab with a border collie, you can expect a mostly black dog with white accents. Boradors typically have a double coat that will either look like the short hair of a Labrador retriever or the medium-length hair of a border collie. Regardless of their coat color, your Borador will shed quite a lot, as both Labradors and border collies are known for their high-shedding coats. Borador Personality Labradors and border collies have a lot of personality traits in common, so the characters and temperaments of Boradors are relatively easy to predict. First and foremost, both breeds are considered to be highly intelligent. They can both learn new things quickly, and they are also able to think independently. This allows them to adapt to new situations and determine what is expected of them, even if they have not been provided with specific instructions. But unlike very independent dogs that can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness, both Labradors and border collies were bred to work alongside humans. This has made them very eager to please, which makes training through reward and positive reinforcement highly effective. This is also why Labradors can be trained to complete the complex tasks required of a guide dog for the blind and why border collies can be trained to deliver elaborate tricks in a sporting dog competition. You can expect a Borador to be highly trainable as well. Both dogs tend to be friendly with strangers and other animals rather than territorial. They are more likely to be curious and keen to make friends than raise the alarm. This quality makes Boradors great companions but not very effective guard dogs. Their affectionate nature tends to be particularly notable with children, around whom they are instinctively careful. It is generally considered safe to let Labradors and border collies play with small children, though they should be supervised at all times in case of any mishaps. This can involve giving them a nip that is designed to surprise rather than hurt. Fortunately, they can easily be trained out of this behavior if you notice it and implement corrective training early on. While they can safely be left alone for up to four or five hours at a time, they can develop anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time while everyone in the household is off working. You can expect them to respond with destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing. This is not done out of vengeance but rather boredom or frustration. Finally, these dogs are very energetic, and they need lots of exercise. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of activity each day, spread out over two shorter sessions. They will also love to accompany you on weekend field trips and hiking adventures. Due to their size and energy levels, Boradors do best when they have a big home with a nice backyard to play in. While they can be trained to put up with apartment living as long as they have regular opportunities to stretch their legs, it is not the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Borador Health Risks You can expect a Borador to have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, which is respectable for a dog of their size. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are at risk of some health conditions. In particular, they may develop elbow or hip dysplasia, which is a painful malformation of the joints that can make movement difficult, especially as they get older. Boradors are less likely to develop this condition if they get sufficient exercise and have a healthy diet. An orthopedic bed will also give them a lot of comfort in late life. Boradors are susceptible to a variety of different eye conditions that can cause them to partially lose their sight in later years. This can be highly disorienting for them, but they can still feel comfortable in a familiar home where they know where everything is. Finally, Boradors can also be prone to obesity, as they have little control over their hunger hormones. This is why it is imperative that they get enough exercise and that you monitor their calorie intake, reducing or increasing portions as required. Never leave food out for these dogs; they do best with strict and limited meal times. With all that information in mind, you might still be wondering whether a Borador is the right dog for you. Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision. A Borador can actually be a great dog for first-time owners. They are easy to train and they have a friendly temperament, so you are unlikely to find yourself dealing with an aggressive or troublesome dog. A Borador will want to be part of the family and involved in everything. You also need to invest time in exercising them and teaching them, as they need the mental stimulation of training. Do you have time to look after a dog like this? If so, the Borador is likely a good choice. How Big Is Your Home? Boradors are pretty big dogs with lots of energy, so they do best when they have quite a bit of space. Will your home feel full with a inch-tall dog wandering about? Additionally, do you have an outdoor space where they can let off energy when needed? When you bring a Borador puppy home, you can expect them to live for anywhere from 10 to 15 or more years. Can you handle the responsibility of caring for them for that time, including the financial responsibility of caring for them? Do you have people who can look after them when you go away or in case of an emergency? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, regardless of the breed you adopt. Yes, Boradors are considered very good dogs, especially if you are looking for a loyal and fairly easy to manage family dog. They are highly intelligent, very trainable, and bond with families quickly. Boradors are high-energy and need a lot of attention, so they are best for families that have time to enjoy them. How smart are border collie Lab mixes? Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are considered among the smartest dog breeds, alongside the likes of poodles and German shepherds. As a result, you can expect crossbreeds that bring together their genetics to be highly intelligent. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Can Boradors swim? Labrador retrievers are known for their love of playing and swimming in water, so there is a good chance their Borador offspring will also love a good swim. If they have the longer coat of their border collie parent, just beware of the amount of water that they are likely to drip after a swim! When is a Borador fully grown? Boradors actually remain playful puppies for quite some time and can take quite a long time to reach their full size. You can expect females to reach their full adult size when they hit around 24 months, while males take a bit longer and are not fully grown until around 36 months. While the dogs will also lose most of their puppy energy upon reaching adulthood, they will remain energetic and athletic dogs for most of their lives. The Verdict If you are a first-time dog owner or anyone looking for a friendly, intelligent, and easy to manage dog to adopt into your family, a Borador is a great choice. Since their Labrador and border collie parents are both intelligent, trainable, and friendly dogs, their offspring are sure to inherit these wonderful traits. Overall, the Borador crossbreed is: High-energy and needs plenty of space to feel comfortable Agreeable, friendly, and loyal, though they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time Quite large dogs, like their Labrador and border collie parents While Boradors are generally easy to manage, they also need quite a bit of your time and dedication to stay happy. Take time to consider whether you have the time to look after one of these pups properly before taking them home. Do you have any experience with Boradors? Share your insights with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

Six possible 0 Comments Owning a dog can be a stressful experience when they are unwell. When should you be concerned and when do you need to take them to a vet? With certain issues, can you treat your dog at home? This article is aimed at people who own French Bulldogs and have noticed a problem with their eyes. There are several causes of red or bloodshot eyes in French Bulldogs, with cherry eye being a common one. Cherry eye is caused by an injury or infection to the clear membrane of the eye known as the third eyelid which results in a red, bloodshot appearance. Red eyes in French bulldogs are not always a symptom of cherry eye. Bloodshot eyes can result from other eye conditions such as entropion, dry eye, and ectopic cilia. Some issues are caused by eye infections and allergies, which are easier to treat. To be safe, visit your vet for a professional diagnosis. So, how do you know if your Frenchie has cherry eye? Look for the below symptoms: Red, bloodshot eyes Either too much tear production or not enough. Obvious problems with her sight. Obvious signs of irritation, such as trying to paw the problem-area, causing further problems. Swelling around the eyes. How serious is cherry eye and what should you do? She will instinctively try and claw at the area, naturally thinking that something needs to be got out. However, this can lead to more serious problems, such as corneal ulcers. So, as you can perhaps gather from the above, you need to get it sorted as quickly as possible to prevent further problems and to make her feel better! Get her to your vet. There are a few things your vet can and might recommend at this point: Removal of the gland surgically. Suture the gland back into position. Antibiotics which will most likely be prescribed with the above also as well as massage techniques. There are positives and negatives with all three of these options, for instance , if you have the gland removed totally but this can cause other problems related to the removal. In summary, there are two things you need to do with cherry eye: Identify that your dog has this condition. Visit your vet. As with any medical condition, the sooner the better. Entropion This is when an eyelid well, actually the edges of the eyelid rolls inwards and is actually quite common, not only to the French Bulldog but to many that have these adorable wrinkled facial folds. The discomfort comes due to the associated eyelashes making contact with the cornea, which can create an ulcer. In the more severe cases, the damage caused to the cornea due to this problem can , unfortunately, lead to vision impairment or total blindness. Tears start falling, you wash it, you rub it and eventually, it just comes out — the relief! Entropion is usually something that happens to her typically at a young age but can happen at any point in her life. But what are the symptoms of this, apart from the obvious signs of discomfort from her? Teary eyes, which may be red or bloodshot this could be a sign of an ulcer. Signs of anxiety or depression. To resolve this condition, your vet will need to perform a surgical procedure that will remove a bit of the skin from underneath the eyelid. What should you do about Entropion? If you notice red tears, which may be a sign an ulcer is developing, then this should be regarded as an emergency and you should contact your vet straight away. If your dog is young, there is a chance that the procedure will be delayed by your vet. Your vet will want to avoid the risks associated with anesthesia in younger puppies. If this is the case, they may choose to put a temporary suture in place until a later point. As far as preventative actions, keeping her face nice and clean and dry by using pet wipes. As this is not something you will be able to fix at home, a visit to your vet will need to be arranged as soon as possible to ensure your Frenchie gets treated in a timely fashion. This is to prevent pawing which in-turn can cause a lot more damage. This condition should not be ignored as it can cause other problems such as: Scarring Inflammation of the corneal Ulcers Note that this condition can occur after the resolution of another eye problem. For instance, if a dog has had cherry eye, the gland may that produces tears may have been replaced. It may also be the result of an eye infection or an allergy. It is actually quite common with Frenchies and other types of bulldog and will typically be seen more often in an adult rather than a puppy. What should you do about dry eye? Consult your vet , of course, they will most likely clean her eyes up and use some medication alongside this as well as providing you with instruction as to how to continue with this maintenance at home. Your vet may also check for an ulcer by using a fluorescein staining of her cornea, which can then be examined under ultraviolet light. One last thing about this. I often see dogs with their head outside of the car window. These are readily available, for instance on Amazon. Ectopic Cilia Eyelash Problems This is a problem related to eyelashes that grow from the middle eyelid typically and rub against the cornea. This rubbing action can actually cause excruciating pain for the dog imagine a hair being stuck in your eye and not being able to do anything about it and needs to be addressed quickly. How can you spot that your dog has this? Any or all of these symptoms may be apparent: Obvious eye discomfort. You notice the dog trying to paw at the problematic eye. A change in. Impaired vision Treatment Take your French bulldog to the vet as soon as you notice any signs of glaucoma. Treatment usually consists of topical medicine or laser surgery. A word of caution: Wait too long, and the chances are the vet will have to remove one or both eyes surgically. Other Possible Reasons For Bloodshot Eyes In French Bulldogs In addition to all the above-listed causes, bloodshot eyes in French bulldogs can be a sign of an eye injury — or a chronic condition, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. It might also result from an illness, such as distemper. And in some cases, red eyes could indicate certain types of cancer. Try to minimize the risk of an eye injury by keeping sharp objects away from your pet. Do not use harsh chemicals around your house. Use only sterile eyewash and eyewash pads. Finally — and please remember this — do not try to treat your French bulldog on your own! Do not buy over-the-counter medications without consulting your vet first. Contact your vet as soon as you notice bloodshot eyes. The vet will determine the underlying cause and prescribe the meds that your furry friend needs! When not writing, he enjoys hiking and time in nature with his pets. YouTube Help! French bulldogs are extremely prone to eye problems. If your pup's eyes are red, something is definitely wrong — you just need to figure out the problem. If you can see a red membrane in the corner of your dog's eye, they are experiencing a cherry eye. You can help them by softly massaging the gland back into place. If the whites of your dog's eyes are red, or if the irritation persists, your dog may have an eye condition. Untreated eye problems can cause serious issues for french bulldogs. Schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. French Bulldogs Have Eye Problems According to Animal Care of Glouchester , french bulldogs have a high chance of inheriting or developing eye problems over the course of their lives. Potential conditions can range anywhere from cataracts to eyelashes that point in the wrong direction. Frenchie's eyes naturally protrude; they're not protected as well as the eyes of other dogs. This leaves them more prone to injuries and infections. Those cute protruding eyes can also develop muscular issues. The result is a sweet and lovable pup who occasionally gets a case of red and extremely irritated eyes. Cherry Eye Is Common in French Bulldogs If your french bulldog's eyes are extremely red, the most likely reason is the cherry eye. Cherry eye looks like a large pink or red spot sticking out of the inner corner of your dog's eyelid. Cherry eye occurs when the third eyelid gland in your Frenchie's eye starts to protrude from underneath their eyelid. According to Jordan from All About Frenchies , the reasons for this condition are not well understood, but the problem is easily treated by any veterinarian. The size of the pink spot will vary depending on the severity of the condition. You might see a tiny bit of pink, or the problem might look like a large red blob. If too much of the membrane is exposed, your dog might have difficulty seeing out of that eye. Your dog's eyes are likely to be red or swollen from the irritation. This is especially true if they have been scratching at their eye. However, cherry eye can occur even if the rest of the eye looks normal. Getting a cherry eye can be painful and irritating for your dog. The protruding membrane is very sensitive and will become more swollen if it's exposed to dust and air. Cherry eye is common in french bulldogs, but it can happen to any kind of dog. Treat it quickly to prevent the problem from becoming more serious. You Can Treat Cherry Eye at Home You can usually take care of cherry eye at home, but your efforts will be more effective if you treat it right away. Always ask your vet to confirm that the problem is a cherry eye and not a different medical condition. Hold your dog's head still, and gently massage their lower eyelid with your thumb; the gland should shift back into its proper place. This video by Jordan Johnson displays the right way to massage the eye without hurting your bulldog. Even if you fix the cherry eye yourself, you should always schedule an appointment with your vet. The membrane has become disconnected, and it will eventually pop back out again. Your vet can offer surgical treatments to prevent the cherry eye from occurring in the future. There are two surgeries used to treat the cherry eye. Your vet might simply suture the gland into place, or they might replace it entirely. Ernest Ward emphasizes that the gland must be replaced and not removed; the third eyelid gland is responsible for most of your dog's tear production. Dry eye occurs when your dog's tear ducts are not producing enough liquid. Bulldog Guide notes that dry eyes are often caused by genetic issues or adverse reactions to medications. Dry eye can also be caused by the surgery that's used to correct cherry eye. Regardless of the cause, the symptoms of dry eye are usually the same. Your dog's eyes will be dry, swollen, and itchy. You will probably notice that your dog is blinking, squinting, or pawing at their eyes on a consistent basis. One of the main identifiers of dry eye is an unusual green discharge coming out of your dog's eyes. This is mucus, and your dog's eyes are producing it to replace the missing tears. Dry eye is a serious problem for bulldogs. If their eyes don't receive enough moisture, they can get scratches, infections, and even corneal ulcers. Luckily, dry eye can be treated with special eye drops prescribed by your vet. Your vet may also recommend supplements that will help increase your dog's natural tear production. Treat Quickly to Prevent Corneal Ulcers Whether your dog has a cherry eye or dry eye, it's important that you get the issue taken care of as soon as possible. French bulldogs with eye problems can end up developing a much more serious condition: corneal ulcers. According to Nancy Thompson from IVG Hospitals , a corneal ulcer is a term used to describe any wound or abrasion on the corneal surface of your dog's eye. Superficial corneal ulcers are easy to treat and usually do not pose a serious risk to your dog. However, deep corneal ulcers can cause serious damage to your dog's eye and almost always require surgery. Corneal ulcers can permanently impair your dog's vision. Small problems like dry eye or cherry eye can leave your dog's eyes exposed and vulnerable. If they get even a small scratch, it could turn into a serious corneal ulcer. Vets can diagnose and treat corneal ulcers. They can also clear up your dog's dry eye before their eyes get damaged. If you suspect that your dog's eyes are at risk, see a vet as soon as you can. You should perform a simple checkup on your dog before you call the vet. If your Frenchie has already been diagnosed with an eye condition, you might be able to treat it yourself by following the vet's instructions. When you first notice that your Frenchie's eyes are red, pick your dog up and take a closer look. See if there's any membrane poking out of their eyelid; this is a cherry eye, and it can be massaged back into place. Next, check for any unusual discharge in the corners of their eyes. Any animal with irritated eyes will probably have dried tears, but if you notice yellow or green mucus, it could be a symptom of dry eye. Finally, if you notice a scratch or a wound on your dog's eye, get them to the vet quickly. If an eye wound develops a bacterial infection, your dog could end up losing their vision or even their entire eye. Luckily, your vet can easily disinfect and treat most scratches. You can't always prevent your dog from developing a cherry eye or dry eye. However, you can help keep them from getting an eye infection, and you can treat the symptoms if they develop a long-lasting eye issue. When you give your french bulldog a bath , make sure not to get any soap in their eyes. You may want to talk to your vet about finding a pet-friendly soap that doesn't risk giving your dog eye infection. All dogs develop mucus in the corners of their eyes; this is very similar to the crust that humans get after they wake up in the morning. Dogs can't clean this out for themselves. Take a moment every day to check your dog's eyes and wipe away the discharge. This is also a good time to look for a cherry eye and dry eye. French bulldogs may produce more discharge than other dogs. This can take the form of brown stains beneath their eyes. Will Blunt from Ask Frankie recommends using a sterile eyewash to clean your french bulldog's tear stains around once a week. If your dog is diagnosed with dry eye, the vet will recommend an ophthalmic ointment that can help remoisturize their eyes. Jordan from All About Frenchies says that these ointments are a medicine cabinet essential for any french bulldog owner. You should also consider keeping a Frenchie-sized dog cone in your supply cabinet. One of the most common causes of corneal ulcers is a dog scratching at their own eyes. Use the cone while you wait for the eye drops or ointment to reduce the swelling and irritation. Taking care of your french bulldog's eyes isn't as difficult as it seems. Keep your Frenchie's eyes clean , and perform a maintenance check on a regular basis. Follow your vet's instructions to the letter; they'll tell you how to treat your pup's specific condition. As long as you react to red-eye situations promptly, your dog will live a long and happy life with excellent vision. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. But why do these dogs have red eyes? The answer may not be as straightforward as you might think. In fact, there are a number of potential causes, including genetics, allergies, and environmental factors. The cause of red eyes can be a combination of things, such as genetics, allergies, and environmental conditions. French Bulldogs have some distinct anatomical features which can affect their eyes, including their wrinkles and the shape of their faces. They can also inherit conditions that lead to red eyes, such as congenital glaucoma or entropion. Environmental factors can also play a role in red eyes. Make sure your pup is getting the right diet and avoiding air pollution as much as possible. Genetic Causes When it comes to French Bulldogs, genetics can play a role in their eye color. Because of their anatomical features, French Bulldogs can have eyes that appear red. They can suffer from inherited conditions that can cause their eyes to take on a red hue. Eye color is determined by the genetic makeup of a Frenchie, as well as the pigments in their eyes. While some Frenchies can have black eyes, others can have lighter shades of brown, amber or even a copper-like hue. Anatomical Features French Bulldogs have a unique eye structure that can contribute to their red eyes. Their eyes are more round and protrude outwards due to their short muzzle, creating an increased chance of having issues such as dry eye, tear duct problems and irritation caused by dust and other environmental factors. French Bulldogs frequently have shallow eye sockets which can further irritate the eyes. To prevent any eye issues, it is important to regularly clean around the eyes and check them for any signs of irritation. Allergies can also be a cause of red eyes in French Bulldogs. Common signs that your Frenchie might be allergic to something include red, itchy eyes, excessive tearing, and paw chewing. If your Frenchie does have allergies, the vet may recommend adjusting their diet or providing them with allergy medication. Environmental factors can contribute to red eyes in French Bulldogs. Sun exposure can greatly affect their eyes and make them prone to drying out and becoming irritated. Their diet and the air quality in their environment can have an effect on their eyes. Inherited Conditions Inherited conditions can play a part in why your French Bulldog has red eyes. Inherited conditions can be passed down from generation to generation, and if your Frenchie has inherited one of these conditions, it could be a contributing factor to the redness in their eyes. Some common inherited conditions that can cause red eyes include entropion, which is a condition in which the eyelid rolls inwards, and cherry eye, in which the third eyelid slips out of place and causes the eye to become red and irritated. If you suspect that your Frenchie may have an inherited condition causing red eyes, it is important to speak to your veterinarian as soon as possible to get the proper treatment and advice. It is also possible that your Frenchie may be exhibiting signs of an ocular issue, such as glaucoma or cataracts. It is also important to keep your Frenchie away from bright lights and other potential irritants, and to monitor their eyes for any further signs of irritation. Keeping your Frenchie healthy and comfortable will help ensure that their eyes remain healthy and clear for years to come. Allergies can cause symptoms like itchy, red, watery eyes, puffy eyelids, and tear-staining. Allergens can include pollen, dust, mites, fleas, and food. A vet can recommend treatments like antihistamines, eye drops, and shampoos. Taking proactive steps now can help keep your pup healthy and free of red-eye symptoms. Allergic symptoms can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, including red eyes, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and skin irritations. Your Frenchie might also experience a watery discharge from the eyes and nose, as well as scratching and pawing at the face. Another common sign of allergies is a condition called conjunctivitis. This is an inflammation of the lining of the eye, and it can cause redness and irritation. In severe cases, the eye may swell and your Frenchie may experience pain. To properly diagnose conjunctivitis, your vet may need to take a swab of the eye to determine if there are any bacterial or viral infections present. Treatment for conjunctivitis typically involves eye drops, ointments, and antibiotics. Allergies in French Bulldogs can be caused by environmental factors, such as dust and pollen or a poor diet. You should look out for signs and symptoms of allergies, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy skin. Treating allergies in French Bulldogs can be relatively simple and straightforward. Start by having your Frenchie examined by a vet to determine the cause of the allergens. And 5 Simple Cleaning Steps You can use a hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner to help reduce the amount of dander that is released into the air. This can include installing air purifiers, keeping windows closed, and regularly vacuuming and mopping your floors. With the right steps, you can help your Frenchie stay comfortable and healthy. Sun exposure can increase the risk of red eyes for your Frenchie. Diet can affect eye health. Make sure your Frenchie is eating a balanced diet that contains all the essential nutrients they need for good eye health. Try to avoid taking them out into areas with high levels of air pollution. Opt for walks in more rural or well-ventilated areas. Doing this can help reduce the risk of red eyes in your Frenchie. UV rays can cause permanent damage, leading to red and irritated eyes. To protect your Frenchie, make sure you limit his time outdoors during peak sun hours and always use pet-safe sunscreen when outside. Be sure to use eye protection if your Frenchie is playing in the sun. You should look for signs of eye strain such as squinting, redness, and discharge. Whenever outdoors, be sure to keep your Frenchie in the shade. If your Frenchie is showing signs of eye strain or discomfort, take him to the vet immediately. Diet It is important to feed your Frenchie a healthy diet that provides all the necessary nutrients it needs. Choose high-quality foods that are made specifically for French Bulldogs. There should be an appropriate balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the diet. Pay attention to the ingredients list, as some foods may contain ingredients that Frenchies may be allergic to. This can lead to problems such as obesity and digestive issues, both of which can cause redness in the eyes. Be sure to provide plenty of fresh water throughout the day to keep them hydrated. Air Pollution Air pollution is a major consideration when it comes to the health and wellbeing of your French Bulldog. Pollutants such as dust, pollen, exhaust fumes and chemical fumes can contribute to red eyes in your Frenchie. Keeping your pup away from polluted areas is the best way to reduce redness and irritation in their eyes. Daily walks or trips to the park will help keep their eyes clear and healthy. If you have to walk your pup in a polluted area, make sure to wear a face mask and pay attention to any signs of redness or irritation in their eyes. Allergies, and environmental factors can all play a part in causing the characteristic gaze of these beloved dogs. Be aware of signs and symptoms of allergies and contact your vet if you have any concerns. Ensure that your Frenchie gets adequate sun protection and a balanced, nutritious diet. Keep an eye on air pollution levels in your area, too. The answer lies in a combination of factors, such as genetics, allergies, and environmental conditions. Inherited conditions like entropion, which is when the eyelids fold inward and rub against the eyeball, can also cause red eyes. If you notice your Frenchie rubbing their eyes, pawing at their face, or squinting, have them checked out by a vet as soon as possible. Allergies can be managed with the right treatment and avoiding any potential triggers. Environmental factors can also lead to red eyes. Make sure to keep your Frenchie out of direct sunlight and provide them with a balanced diet. Minimize air pollution by ensuring their living space is well-ventilated. Genetics are the most likely cause, with some anatomical features and inherited conditions playing a part. It could also be caused by allergies, so watch out for signs and symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and coughing. Environmental factors can also play a role, such as sun exposure and diet, as well as air pollution. So make sure your Frenchie has access to a clean environment and a healthy lifestyle. Regularly check for any symptoms of allergies or health problems, and be sure to keep up-to-date with vaccinations. Talk to your vet about any potential issues or health risks and make sure your Frenchie has the best care possible. Post Views: .Pin1 5 Shares We love our pets, often times in a way that other people may not quite understand. When something is wrong with them, we want answers, and quick. Our Frenchie, Claude, developed bloodshot and red eyes last week. It was really worrying, so I took him to vet. French bulldogs can have red and bloodshot eyes due to a condition called Cherry eye. All dogs have a third eyelid which is a clear membrane that cleans the eye and distributes tears. Cherry eye occurs when this eyelid becomes injured or infected. This results in dry, bloodshot, and red eyes. It might not be cherry eye with your Frenchie; it could also be dry eye syndrome, corneal ulcers, allergy. Claude had the cherry eye problem, so will talk more about that first. What causes cherry eye in French bulldogs? Cherry eye is not a life-threatening condition read more about it , but it can be a serious and chronic condition. How to spot cherry eye in a Frenchie Cherry eye is easy enough to spot, with the first sign being your dog showing noticeable signs of discomfort around his eyes. With Claude, we noticed him pawing at his eye, and trying to scratch it which undoubtedly make it more bloodshot and even worse. His eye was noticeably dry, and he himself looked very irritated. The vet told me that sometimes, the third eyelid will also be visibly inflamed, and very red in appearance. These are the most obvious signs that your French bulldog is experiencing eye discomfort. Other symptoms of cherry eye include a significant increase in tears, the eye will water, swell and your dog could suffer with impaired vision. Your dog may exhibit only a few, or all of these symptoms. If your dog exhibits any of these problems, please do what we did book an appointment for him to see his vet as soon as possible. Cherry eye can quickly become extremely painful for your dog and treatment options are best discussed with a professional. How to treat red eyes in a French bulldog There are a few ways to treat cherry eye; it can be corrected surgically and non-surgically. The most successful non-surgical treatment consists of simple eye massage techniques that can be taught to you by your vet. This is what we did. It worked using a combination of some eye drops, a warm damp cloth, and massaging his eye using a technique our vet showed us. He was a lot better after a few weeks. We will be going back to see ours in a month to see how Claude is getting on. The most successful surgical treatment is a called an attachment procedure. It involves anchoring the fleshy part of the membrane to more sturdy tissue in the lower corner of the eye socket, preventing cherry eye from returning. This surgery can be a life time solution, and your Frenchie is unlikely to experience cherry eye again. What else could be causing red eyes in your Frenchie? Red eyes in French bulldogs are not always due to cherry eye, as this breed is prone to a range of different bloodshot eye problems. Some of these problems are caused by environmental factors, such as dust. These are far easier to treat, while others require a trip to the veterinarian. Dry eye Dry eye means your Frenchie is not producing enough tears to keep his eyes moist. This condition can have many underlying causes, from allergies and illnesses to inherited problems and environment. The eyes will begin producing a thick, cloudy yellow to green discharge and your dog will exhibit behavior like squinting or blinking a lot. Dry eye is not serious, but it can be painful for your Frenchie. Typical treatments include, ointment, antibiotics, or eye drops. If it is due to an infection, or illness your vet will most likely prescribe your Frenchie an antibiotic, which will clear up the infection and get rid of his red eyes. For allergies, environmental factors, or inherited eye problems your Frenchie will probably need to be given eye drops daily to prevent symptoms from reoccurring. Corneal ulcers Corneal ulcers are one of the more serious eye conditions your Frenchie can get. It can be caused by trauma to the eye, untreated dry eye, chemical burns from shampoo and grooming products, or any foreign substance your Frenchie gets in his eyes. Corneal ulcers cause significant pain and can lead to blindness. Corneal ulcers treatment is usually given in the form of an antibiotic, plus some dog pain medication. If you believe your Frenchie might have a corneal ulcer it is best to get him to a vet as soon as possible. If the ulcer is severe it may require surgical intervention to correct and prevent blindness from occurring. Fever Frenchies will also exhibit sore and red eyes when they have a fever. Find out more about how to do that, and what signs of fever to look out for here. Preventing red eye problems in French bulldogs An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take care when bathing and grooming him When bathing, or grooming your Frenchie pay extra attention while working near his head. Frenchies naturally have sensitive eyes and the chemicals in shampoos and other grooming products can cause irritation, inflammation, infections and even more serious conditions like corneal ulcers. If you take your Frenchie to a dog groomer, be sure to express these concerns to them. Tear stains are not only unsightly, they can harbor bacteria. Handy Hint: Click here to read a comprehensive guide on how to clean French Bulldog tear stains , plus how you can reduce them from happening in the first place. You can use a sterile eyewash product from your local drugstore but be sure to avoid products that contain added chemical ingredients. The eye wash you use for your Frenchie should be a sterile saline solution only — visit my Frenchie Gear page to see what saline solution we recommend and used with Claude. Conclusion Why does your French bulldog have red eyes? Well, it could be down to a number of reasons as discussed above, and for us it was the dreaded cherry eye — but thankfully Claude appears to have made a complete recovery. If your Frenchie does develop bloodshot or red eyes please do get in touch with your vet, as it could be the sign of a longer-term health issue that will need resolving with professional help. Need more advice on health? Whilst I always advise you get advice from a vet, there are certain health problems French Bulldog owners should be aware of and know how to spot. You can see what they all are in this guide to Frenchie health problems and symptoms. A short snout and other genetic predispositions may cause them to have frequent problems with their eyes. Any delay can cause a serious infection and even result in permanent blindness or the loss of an eye. Dry eye, corneal ulcers, and cherry eye are the most common eye problems your Frenchie may experience. More than half of these eye problems are caused by an injury to the cornea. Some other common French Bulldog eye problems you may come across are entropion a condition where the genetic trait of droopy eyelids causes the eyelid to roll inward and cause the eyelashes to scratch the eye , ectropion another condition where the genetic trait of droopy eyelids cause the lower eyelid to sag and expose the delicate tissues underneath , abnormal eyelashes, persistent pupillary membranes, and pink eye. Cherry Eye This condition is one of the most common eye problems that Frenchies experience. Cherry eye can be characterized by red tissue protruding from the inside corner of the eye. The protruding tissue is caused by the prolapsed gland of the eyelid. If a Frenchie has this eye problem, they may also experience other symptoms like discharge and excessively watery eyes. Cherry eye is usually not painful, but if not treated in a timely manner it can lead to other serious eye problems. Treatment for this condition will involve suturing the gland back in place or completely removing the gland. The dryness will cause the cornea of the eye and the surrounding tissues to become inflamed. In response, the eyes will produce thick yellow or green discharge. Dry eye can be painful for your pup so if you notice them squinting or blinking a lot, they may need treatment as soon as possible. Treatment will involve the daily application of an ointment or eye drop. Corneal Ulcers Out of all the eye problems your Frenchie may experience, corneal ulcers can be the most serious. Corneal ulcers will cause your pup to be in extreme pain, and they will try to relieve the pain by rubbing their eyes. Ulcers are usually caused by some type of trauma, untreated dry eye, or a chemical burn due to soap or shampoo, and it will require urgent medical care. Treatment will involve the application of antibiotic ointment as well as medication for pain and swelling. If the ulcer is very severe it may require surgical intervention. If your Frenchie is rubbing his or her eye with their paw or on the carpet, is excessively blinking, has unusual drainage coming from one or both eyes, or if you can see spots or redness, your pup may need to be seen by a vet. Cloudiness, change in eye color, tear-stained fur, red or white eyelid lining, and a visible third eyelid is also common signs of an eye problem. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to get it checked out as soon as you can. Most issues can become serious and cause permanent damage if they are left untreated. If you suspect allergies may be causing the symptoms, you could purchase an over-the-counter saline wash. If the symptoms do not improve after two days, see your vet. But there are a few steps you can take to reduce this risk. When bathing your Frenchie make sure shampoo or soap does not get into their eye. Chemicals from shampoo can easily irritate their eyes. Also, examine their eyes regularly for dry eye or any unusual marks. This can be done with regular application of sterile eye wash with eye wash pads. Wrapping Things Up French Bulldog eye problems are very common , and any French Bulldog owner may be able to quickly confirm this. However, with the proper preventative care, small issues can be caught before anything gets too serious. Seeing a vet regularly who is experienced with bulldog care is the best way to keep your pup healthy. Home » Blog » 5 most common French Bulldog eye problems 5 most common French Bulldog eye problems Frenchies and other bulldog breeds are more exposed to eye problems as their shorter snouts cannot protect them as much from scratches and things that can get into them. In this article, we address some of the most common French Bulldog eye problems. Watery eyes in French bulldogs Some dogs simply produce more tear than others. The constant tearing colors the fur, especially in between the wrinkles, which is even more noticeable in white or light-colored Frenchies. Apart from being an aesthetic issue, these stains may lead to health issues as well: since bacteria thrive in wet conditions, your puppy will be more likely to catch an eye infection. It is completely safe for the eyes and is the best way for a thorough sanitization of the area under them. Our TomKings Family members have also shared their experiences in our Facebook group, read their experiences here. Inflamed eyes in French bulldogs You can recognize inflamed eyes by being red, which may be due to a number of reasons. For example, if your Frenchie has a runny nose as well, and is also sneezing and coughing a lot, then they most probably caught a cold for which your vet will need to prescribe antibiotics. In such cases, you should put some eye drops into them which contain antibiotics, our recommendation is Tobradex which you can purchase at the vet and human pharmacy as well. The solution again is an eye drop with antibiotics, and a visit to the vet! Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email Cherry eye in French bulldogs French bulldogs have loose skin, which pulls down their face and makes their mucous membrane visible. The mucous membrane is red because it is full of blood vessels, so it is perfectly normal. There is a minor issue called cherry eye, which is very common in all bulldog breeds. You will just need to use some antibiotic eye drops afterwards and it will heal quickly. Ultimate Guide First name Email There are also surgeries where they cut and remove the cherry eye. This method is not recommended as the third eyelid plays an essential part in producing tears, and without it your Frenchie may have constant dry eyes. Dry eyes in French bulldogs When a Frenchie has dry eyes, they are not producing enough tears to keep their eye balls moist. There may be several reasons for that, like medications, removal of cherry eye, or even sleeping with their eyes open. You have to put drops in both eyes twice a day, or even more if you have the time at the weekends for example. Corneal ulcer in French bulldogs Corneal ulcers are probably the most serious and painful eye problems in Frenchies. They usually occur due to some kind of trauma or injury to the cornea, chemical burn from shampoo, but can also be caused by untreated dry eyes. The symptoms include your puppy rubbing their eye to relieve the pain, keeping it closed, or there may even be some discharge coming out of it. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. When your French eyes are noticeably red or irritated, it may be a symptom of something as mild as an itch, mild allergies, or as severe as an eye condition. Bloodshot eyes are among the first symptoms of irritation. The eye is an organ that continually adapts to light stimuli and focuses on objects of interest. Their third eyelid can expand to shield their eyeball against cuts and scratches or in response to infection. Environmental pollutants can cause inflammation, and disease can impair or weaken various parts of your Frenchies eye. Certain breeds of dogs are much more susceptible to eye problems than the others, such as: Dogs that have long hair over their heads, like Maltese and Poodles. Brachycephalic or flat-faced dogs such as bulldogs , Shih Tzus, and French Bulldogs. Elderly dogs or ones with current health issues, including diabetes or high blood pressure french bulldog eye allergies What Causes Your French Bulldog To Have Red Eyes? Among the most likely reasons for bloodshot and irritated eyes in your Frenchie include the following: Allergies Eye allergies can cause your Frenchies eyes to become painful, swollen, and red. Many factors can cause such an allergic response. Typically, if the source of the problem is removed, the issue should fix itself without difficulty, but occasionally a ride to the vet is required for your Frenchies allergy treatment. Eye allergies are also connected to close exposure to allergens that your French Bulldog is exposed to throughout your household. Examples are mould, dust mites, or pollen. It could also be triggered by certain food or other additives. Vets can perform both skin and blood examinations. Findings can help determine the best ways to minimize allergen exposure in your home. Many medicines, as well as natural remedies, can also make your Frenchie recover. When you have a good idea of what is causing your Frenchies eyes to go red due to allergies, then take the following steps: Replace everything in your house, including the problem item. When you believe your Frenchie has been exposed to allergens like dust, dander, feathers, or spores, seek to remove as many sources as possible. When necessary, clean the carpets and clean every soft piece of furniture that can hold onto all these invisible irritants. Relatively benign allergens can usually be managed quite successfully. For example, if your french suffers from pollen, you can search online for pollen counts every day for your area. Then only take your Frenchie for a walk when the counts become low. Under extreme situations, it might be important to keep your Frenchie in a different, protected area that is not exposed to the irritant until a suitable care solution can be found. Consider an air purifier, as this will also help decrease airborne allergens. Gently clean your French Bulldog eyes with temped water. Boil the water and let it cool. It can help make your Frenchies eyes to become a lot more comfortable, and it helps remove any allergens or contaminants from their eyes. Use your cotton wool balls and be patient and careful. Eye injury Even the slightest eye injury may become an infected wound and vision loss. Look at their eyes when you notice your Frenchie squinting, avoiding bright lights and sunlight, and constantly blinking. Excessive tears are a common indication of issues, such as watery discharge. Eye injuries develop if a foreign object enters or lodges in the eye. In addition, your Frenchie scratching their cornea, overgrown eyelashes, or inverting the eyelids could even lead to eye trauma. Immediate Care When your Frenchie is blinking or constantly squints and hates bright lights, there is a good probability that something in their eye: With your thumb, raise the top eyelid of your Frenchie and search for any object or debris underneath. Try the same thing with the bottom eyelid. If you have trouble extracting the foreign object, gauze your Frenchie eye and take it to the vet. When the foreign object has pierced your Frenchies eye, urgently bandage it and immediately take them to the vet. When this liquid is created in excess, the eye pressure rises and damages the retina and the optic nerve. And can eventually lead to blindness. Glaucoma results in discomfort that is more acute in dogs than in people. The signs and symptoms include: Red or Bloodshot eyes Eye pain includes rubbing against the ground or some other surface or with their paw. Pupils appear different in size Cloudy cornea. Allergies Allergies on your French Bulldog eyes can cause bloodshot like eyes as well as excessive tearing and pawing at the eyes. Itching, discharge, and crusty skin around the eyes are also common symptoms of allergies. The most common allergen is pollen, but a French Bulldog can also be allergic to dust, mites, fleas, and foods. Eye injury If your French Bulldog has a tear in its cornea, it can affect the inner surface of the eye, causing blood vessels to grow over the affected area. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Dry Eye Syndrome If your French Bulldog has dry eye syndrome, its eyes will be red and irritated due to a lack of tears. A French Bulldog with this problem will blink excessively and may develop a secondary bacterial or yeast infection. Glaucomaa Glaucoma is a condition that causes an increase in pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. This can lead to blindness, and one of its symptoms is a red eye. A French Bulldog with uveitis may have red eyes as well as other symptoms such as excessive tearing, pain, and light sensitivity. Corneal ulceration A French Bulldog with a corneal ulcer will have eye pain, red eyes due to blood in the vessels, squinting because it hurts to look, and excessive tearing. The most common cause of corneal ulcers in Frenchies is trauma caused by a foreign object or a scratch from another dog or cat. Conjunctivitis Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and coats the eyeball. A French Bulldog with conjunctivitis may have red eyes, discharge, and crusting on the eyelashes. Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland of the third eyelid becomes enlarged and pops out , protruding from underneath the nictitating membrane. It is possible to treat cherry eye but it will likely recur in some French Bulldogs. It may require surgical intervention. Cataracts If your French Bulldog has cataracts, his eyes will become cloudy and may look red. Distichiasis Distichiasis is a condition where extra eyelashes on the edge of the eyelid rub against the cornea. Entropion In French Bulldogs with entropion, the eyelid rolls inward toward the cornea, leading to damage from lashes and inflammation. Entropion may cause red eyes and other symptoms such as excessive tearing and sensitivity. French Bulldogs Eye Problem Signs If your French Bulldog is showing one or more of these symptoms, make an appointment with your vet right away. Its eyes are red; Has clear discharge from the eyes and does not go away after a few days; Squints or closes eye often; Eyes are tearing; Has crusting around the eyes; Is constantly pawing at the eyes. These are some of the most common symptoms of French Bulldog eye problems. They will be able to diagnose the problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment. The sooner these conditions are identified, the more options for treatment your veterinarian will have. Well, you should have their eyes cleaned regularly, especially if they have a lot of discharge. Use a warm, damp cloth to gently clean the area around the eyes. Remove any crusts that may have formed and allow the area to dry naturally. Protect Their Eyes from Hazards A Frenchie can be injured by many different things, such as splinters, sharp edges, or even other pet friends. To do this, first, try to flush the object out with water. Before taking action, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. This can cause further injury and should only be done by a veterinarian. They will be able to remove the object safely and without causing any additional damage. This is because the blood vessels in the eyes become more visible when they are tired. Some people prefer to use a warm, damp cloth, while others may use an over-the-counter eye cleaning product specifically designed for dogs. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and use them as directed. Wipes can be used to clean away dirt, dust, and debris that French Bulldogs pick up around the house or outside. Eye drops for dogs can help to keep their eyes moist and free of discharge. This can help to keep the area lubricated and free from infection. Remember, only use products that are designed for dogs, and never use human eye drops on your dog. When should I get my Frenchie to the vet? French Bulldog eyes are prone to certain conditions that can be pretty painful or even life-threatening if not treated. Frenchies also have tiny tear ducts that can cause excess tearing or watering problems. Conclusion French Bulldogs are bred with a number of genetic conditions that can affect their eyes. They are also prone to developing certain types of eye infections. Many of these conditions can be treated if caught early. A French Bulldog should have a yearly eye exam to ensure that there are no problems. Your French Bulldog can also develop allergies or other types of infections that cause the eyes to become red and inflamed.

July 13, This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. After all, the high heritability of health crises such as hip dysplasia in GSDs has been studied for decades already. Sloped or roach-back German Shepherds are not the only back type. On the contrary, it was bred after the original breed type was established in the early s. Sloped back German Shepherds were promoted by influential breeders. Some people fell in love with the posture and gait that the German Shepherd with the curved back has. However, the real question is whether or not you should fall in love with the curved back. Furthermore, the new back type was even harmful to the breed. Many loved the new gait in the show ring as well as the overall look of the German Shepherd roach back and the unnatural stance the dog now took due to the lowered hind legs. German Shepherds with straight backs are the original breed type. Their back forms a straight line. This appearance resembles the wolf. The German Shepherd with a straight back is usually considered superior to the sloped back type as it affects their posture and movement. Health benefits. German Shepherds were bred with straight backs to be active, agile, and healthy helpers on farms and for various other activities. Sadly, this changed when the new version was introduced because the sloped back German Shepherd is much more prone to joint issues, hip dysplasia, and many more health issues related to the unnatural back. Adding to that, Max von Stephanitz who was the grandfather of the breed heavily advocated for the straight back when he created the breed. Animal rescues, dog breed experts, and vets around the world prefer the straight back for just these health reasons. For many years the British KC is debating the soundness of this development and their position is as follows: The Kennel Club remains in no doubt that currently, the single biggest threat to the reputation and interest of the breed is the lack of soundness in hindquarters. Why is it that many people make this a political thing though? The owner stated on social media that she felt like this was directed against her. Amidst all her confusion on why people were being so mean, she seemingly lost sight of the issue at hand which is the sloped or roach back of her dog. So, does a sloped back Shepherd always suffer joint diseases? Definitely not. Will a straight back always be free from any hip or joint issues? Does that mean you should take on the risk of an unnatural gait just because you like the look? This is especially problematic since German Shepherds mixes are widely spread to give them the seemingly best of both worlds. Breeding with generally healthy breeds like the Husky may result in bad hips nonetheless. For American buyers, it might be a tad more difficult since the trend in AKC show lines strongly leans towards the sloping back. German working lines are not free from hip issues though. Time and time again, I witness responsible breeders that turn their back on the German Shepherd breed due to the community that steers it in the wrong direction. Performing a job. Last but not least, I find the sentiment that the sloped back looks superior questionable. In my personal opinion, a weird stance and gait are not at all desirable. Study References:. August 29, Joints and cartilage distress Since their hips and knees are closer to the ground, they need to stretch back more when walking or running. They also tend to use their hocks for standing and walking. These cause their gait to be irregular and may cause more joint and cartilage distress, fatigue, and lower back pain than straight back GSDs. But having bent legs, sloped backs have become very susceptible to Hip Dysplasia. This disease is irreversible and in some severe cases, hip replacement is recommended. Osteoarthritis Although most senior dogs are affected by osteoarthritis, GSDs with sloped back tend to have an earlier onset. Moreover, it will greatly affect the quality of their life. Breeders who believe in the legacy of Max Von Stephanitz that GSDs should be bred for working, have kept his advocacies. They are more focused on their tasks and more intense in carrying them out. Most police and military GSDs are straight backs with short hair. They have long hair which gives them a unique look but rather made them unacceptable for a long time. Despite the long hair, their straight backs and sturdy appearance make them ideal for working and as a pet. They are larger than modern GSDs and have thicker bones. They are much taller, with bigger heads and deeper chests. See also German Shepherd Police Dogs Conclusion Amid the controversy surrounding the sloped back GSDs, one should never forget that the welfare of this dog breed is what counts the most. Choosing between a sloped back and a straight back GSD will always depend on the needs and capabilities of the would-be pet owner. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. My name is Mitzi Michelle Brooks. I have had dogs all my life and German Shepherds most of that time. I have tried different breeds, but always come back to what I know and love. The German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for me. I breed large, old-fashioned, straight-backed, German Shepherds with a special focus on health and temperament. I am a very small breeder, all my dogs live with me, in the house. They are first, and foremost, my beloved pets. In my litters, I concentrate on the things that matter most to me: Health and Temperament. My dogs are all larger than the breed standard but with no compromise to their health. All my dogs are medium to low energy, making them easy to train and ideally suited for families. I do not breed: dogs that are hyper, dogs that show any signs of aggression, working dogs, high drive dogs, or dogs with excessive angulation. Puppies are born and raised in my home! That means your puppy goes home with you already socialized with other dogs, with cats, and familiar with all the sights and sounds of a normal home. All puppies are also current on vaccinations and on a set deworming schedule. The puppies bred here are sold as companions and pets. Just as working dogs are bred to work, my puppies are bred to live in and be a part of a family. With their low to low-medium drive, my pups are very easy for their new parents to train and still possess that famous German Shepherd instinct to protect their home and their family. These soft temperaments mean that my dogs are happy to go out and play, but just as happy to come in, lay at your feet, and interact with their family. Where did the sloped back come from, then? Instead, they were bred to win competitions. Therefore, the breeders did not need to worry about practical considerations quite as much. As the show dogs were no longer bred with these practical considerations in mind, the breed standard slowly shifted from a normal rectangular shape to one that looked more like a triangle. However, that is the way the breed standard has been moving for decades. Many breeders are now producing dogs with very sloped backs. The sloped-back German Shepherd is largely the result of a very small number of influential breeders. Once these few breeders started breeding dogs with more sloped backs, dogs with bigger slopes began appearing in competitions. It became weird for German Shepherds to have straight backs in the show ring. There is little reason for this trait to exist except that someone simply decided that it should. It is simply a trait that has come to be expected in show German Shepherds. Strangely, the German Shepherd standard states that they should have a straight back without any sag. Still, these dogs have been winning competitions recently, which should give you an idea of where this breed standard is going. Luckily, not all breeders follow the breed standard, especially if their goal is to produce working dogs. The straight back will likely continue in working-breed lines, as it is necessary for the German Shepherd to perform its best. They are still prone to all the health conditions we previously discussed for straight-backed dogs. The health problems we discuss in this section are simply extra that they are also prone to. One study found that there is a significant health problem with the way these dogs are currently being bred and advised that the breed be watched in the future to prevent further complications from arising. This is quite easy to visualize. When they are lower to the ground, they have to move more to achieve the same stride. This can cause excess wear and tear since the hips are moving more than they would normally. Over time, this can cause arthritis-like symptoms. Many dogs with extremely sloped backs also use their hocks for walking. This behavior makes their gait irregular, which can cause more wear and tear. It can also make the dog expend too much energy when they are walking, causing fatigue. The weird angle can also cause lower back pain. As mentioned, hip dysplasia can occur in straight-backed German Shepherds as well. In fact, it is quite common in dogs with straight backs. However, those with angled backs are even more prone to having hip dysplasia. This disease can be very costly, so we recommend keeping this in mind when adopting a dog. If your dog needs surgery on both hips, then you could be spending thousands. Because of their sloped back, these dogs are prone to osteoarthritis. Many older dogs experience this problem, but it is likely that dogs with sloped backs will experience more arthritis symptoms and get it at a younger age. Overall, because these dogs are bred for show purposes, they tend to be less healthy than the straight-backed German Shepherd. You want them to work for as many years as possible. However, dogs that have health problems can still be shown and win competitions. Suitable For: There is very little reason why anyone looking for a companion animal should purchase dogs with a sloped back. They tend to have more health problems, are more expensive, and have lower endurance. They are sub-par in practically every stance, except when it comes to showing them. Over the past few years, these dogs have been winning many dog shows. Therefore, those who show their dogs have been eager to purchase them. However, many kennel clubs are cracking down on German Shepherds with sloped backs, so this trend will likely change shortly. Which Breed is Right For You? Those with straight backs are less prone to health problems and have higher endurance. They fit closer to what the German Shepherd originally was intended to be. They make much better working dogs as well since they have higher endurance and are bred for more practical purposes. Those with sloped backs have few benefits over the straight-backed GSD. For the most part, these dogs are only around in the show ring, where they have been known to win some competitions. However, this has led to lots of controversies, as their backs likely led to excess health problems and are not in line with the original breed. In fact, the breed standard specifically speaks against sloped-back dogs, so it is odd that they are winning competitions at all. Many kennel clubs are starting to stand against these sloped-back dogs, especially after the extensive media coverage that some of them have gotten. For this reason, we highly recommend sticking with straight-backed dogs on all occasions. In fact, we particularly recommend finding a breeder that produces working dogs , as these will have more practical traits and temperaments. Related Reads:. While the owner of that dog, Susan Cuthbert, pushed back, saying her German Shepherd had been passed through with a clean bill of health to compete, people around the world have accused the owner and the dog show of animal cruelty. The change in appearance is obvious even to casual viewers. In fact, as The Telegraph later reported, as a result of the international upset, the Crufts dog show actually changed their own entry rules following the show results. The report by the Royal Veterinary College highlighted survey results from clinics in its report of exaggerated breed standards and how they are causing cruel health problems for German Shepherd dogs today. Breed standards are typically developed by breed clubs that actively participate in either working dog or show dog competitions. Breed standards can differ quite a bit based on whether the dog breed in question is a working dog breed or a show dog breed. The former tends to focus its breed standard on temperament and performance traits, while the latter tends to focus its breed standard on how the dog looks, or appearance traits. The German Shepherd was originally developed as an exclusively working dog breed. As the German Shepherd Dog Club of America points out, however, Captain von Stephanitz was also known to heavily interbreed his original dogs to obtain a certain level of mental stability and work ethic. This later caused some genetic flaws, and so Captain von Stephanitz decided to introduce some unrelated herding dog DNA through expanded breeding to get rid of these flaws. What this points to is an essential flaw in the development of any dog breed standard. Any time animal breeding is manipulated to reliably produce certain desirable traits, there is always a risk of introducing health or temperament problems. Today, German Shepherds are tested for a number of known heritable genetic health issues for this very reason, which we will discuss more here shortly. These are the main GSD lines that most breeders work with: American show dog line. West German show dog line. West German working dog line. Czech working dog line. East German DDR dog line. As you have probably already noticed, only two lines are devoted to the show or appearance standard for German Shepherd dogs. The other three lines focus exclusively on working dog traits. American show dog line These dogs are known to be stockier, heavier, taller, and more prone to thin bones, thin heads, and health issues overall. West German show dog line The West German show dog line is also a larger and heavier dog than the other working dog lines and these dogs typically look very similar to one another in every way, from coat color and pattern to size, height, and weight. Certainly, these dogs are leaner and lighter-weight and look more like their rumored wolf-hybrid breed father. Czech GSD working dog line The German Shepherd dogs that come from this lineage are primarily from the Pohranicni Straze kennel, a kennel used nearly exclusively by the Czech military. Their primary work duties are border patrol and military jobs. However, the temperaments of dogs from this breed line are known to vary, and not all make effective working dogs. As the Canine Health Information Center CHIC points out, most purebred dog breeds today have certainly known potentially heritable genetic health issues that occur more commonly in those dog breeds. This is because these dogs have been closely bred to conform to either a working or show appearance breed standard. When this happens, the breeder is deliberately selecting parent dogs based on certain desirable traits rather than on overall health. When this type of breeding program is pursued, it can lead to genetic weaknesses that are passed along to the puppies. For the German Shepherd dog breed, the major known genetic weaknesses that responsible breeders are required to test for include these: Hip and elbow dysplasia.