german shepherd puppies usa

This decision is not made lightly by us or by you. There is no changing your mind after committing to your puppy. Typically the day comes when the litter is ready to go. Sometimes people are not ready or the color they prefer is not available. By having made the effort to meet me this puts you in a way to the front of the line. If you are a good communicator you can then be first to choose a pup from the next litter. We are telling other buyers from this point that the puppy you chose is not available. In rare cases a person will need to decide to change gender due to temperament incompatibility with another dog and then the deposit could be transferable upon my choosing. Come visit our Puppy Palace in person by appointment. Screenshot your favorite puppy and text us for more info. Put a deposit and pick up within the week or take your baby home same day. If you are out of state, we can help you acquire everything you need to fly home with your new puppy. Breeding Program We are passionate about temperament and health. We socialize our puppies for up to 16 weeks. Pups are fully vaccinated when leaving. We sleep with them. Pups are socialized in this same way. The parents of the puppies are our like our children. How to buy a puppy Call us on the phone first .Learn More A french bulldog puppy at 10 days old. Breeding Program We are passionate about providing the consumer with a dog that is bred with integrity for health and beauty. Marika Zoll is a Ph. Simply talking to her you will learn what to watch out for. We sleep with them and eat with them. Well, nearly. The point is that we are not just Breeding dogs. We had the dogs first and then we fell in love with the breed. Is it part English Bulldog, or Pug or some Terrier? Little is noted in the development of its history no one knows exactly how the French bulldog came into being because very poor records were kept we know we know the most basic facts such as that there were Normandy immigrants coming from France to England that brought these dogs with them around the s. Those immigrants were lace workers that had been living in the farming communities of northern friends which is where they were a rich initially discovered but when those lace workers move to France they brought the dogs with them and had a tremendous reception of the French people because of their petite size versus other extremely strong almost big dog presents that is easily social and loyal with everybody and never disliking anyone. Variance in weight can be from pounds! This dog is active in sports which I might compare to a quarter horse. They envy a walk if possible 10 times a day, but that walk will only be bigger us for maybe 5 to 10 minutes. This difference determine the difference in pricing that you will see regardless of optimal specification they always weigh heavier on the scale than that they look because their bone structure is dense for their size. There about like years that stand to attention have become their trademark and their faces are somewhere between a pug and an English bulldog. The French bulldog can wait any were literally from 15 to 40 pounds but the breed average is from 22 to 28 pounds and standing about 1 foot tall. A fun aspect of the breed is a tremendous variation in color unlike other breeds that are more consistent. This Breed spends everything from white to Brindle to fun with spots and without and in varying shades in almost every color of the rainbow. Fad colors are including chocolate black and blue and tricolor and these have been frowned upon for years by classical breeders and registries and French Bulldogs LA clubs of America due to the in breeding that was necessary to create these colors. Overtime though we hope that because of ethics and patients that this fact will change. Brindle is the AKC definition of black but that color also varies as much is a black coffee to coffee with cream and should always include sprinkles of golden hairs. Note that eyes are meant to be dark brown and variations of this are due to fad colors which are most often reproduced in the past with in line breeding that exacerbates recessive traits and can reproduce like colored eyes again frowned upon by classical tradition traditional breeders but something that we hope to see changing in this near future. This means exactly that, it will not work for you but rather be a great companion happy to sit all day at your feet or on your lap. It is still small enough to be carried around or brought on board a plane. It loves walks albeit short ones and is sensitive to the heat so in the summertime I walk them only at night or early mornings. They cannot swim as easily as other breeds and need to be worked with in the beginning with the lifejacket as a puppy so that it can learn to swim. On occasion, some may howl like a coyote or periodically an actual true bark. But these are more rare instances. They would be a fun addition to any household, lighting up the room with their smile. Yes, they seem to smile! They are very social with all people never acting skittish, in fact the first to greet you. They behave well off the leash and it would be a common sight to see an owner walking a busy street with their dog freely at their side for they are very obedient and easy to train. They often snore though, so know this trait is common. Many doggy daycares will tell you the French bulldog is the boss dog of the pack. This may often be so but more and more French bulldogs are submissive. In fact, I, as a breeder, am breeding for this quality so as never to have a dog that you have to worry about fighting with another dog. Note that French Bulldogs do not drool unless extremely emotional and perhaps there is a dog in heat nearby otherwise primarily a dry mouth. What is a Bulldog? A Bulldog is of course nothing other than a Bulldog, but if you have not seen a Bulldog or a picture of one you may be surprised. People often confuse Bulldogs with other «Bull» breeds, particularly boxers, pit-bulls or bull terriers. The Bulldog is very distinct canine with a rich heritage that surpasses most other known breeds of dog. The Bulldog is a squat, thickset dog, with a large blocky head, short foreface and turned up jaw. If you have decided to get a small sleek-haired dog, strong and brawny, with self-respect and kindness in relation to people and especially to children, intellectual so, that it does not demand special training you will not be mistaken if will choose the French bulldog. If the English bulldog is a symbol of calmness and confidence of, the American bulldog is the furious security guard the French bulldog is a dog companion, cheerful, tender and surprisingly clever! The small, amusing, devoted friend, thus the brawny robust fellow in whom blood fighter ancestors and during the moment of fight or protection of the owner flows, quite often proves brightly enough. On the Native land of the French bulldog in France almost in all families live the French bulldogs. Solid addition and extraordinary appearance involves people of different age and each person wishes to have the reliable cheerful friend to the French bulldog. Emblem of last largest exhibition in France — Paris in became certainly the French bulldog! Our dogs all over in our house and grow with full of love! All of my family has raised french Bulldogs and still does. Many Familes all over the World have one or two of our pups,and are very happy. Our dogs the award many medals and diplomas. The line of blood of champions guarantees high quality of my puppies and long life a life more than years. All of our puppies have a vaccinations of 2 -3 Parvos distemper 1 Leptospirois 1 -2 hepatitis and also 2 vaccinations for skin problem before they reach their new owners. The puppies are dewormed 21 days after birth, and than dewormed again before first and second vaccination. If you will buy the puppy from us kennel that to you it will not be necessary to spend cent for the veterinary doctor, because all my puppies healthy, have strong and health heart, sharp mind, kind appeasable character. Our frenchie very well get on with cats, dogs of any breeds and small children. All our puppies come with AKC registration papers , microchip , shot record vaccinations and 3 times dewormed , health quarantee for one year for any genetic problem, list of recommendations, sample of the food and crate for free! Pictures of each puppy we post on web. California hot state, we do not have winter here, lots of viruses. If you looking to buy healthy puppy — call us. If you want to buy 8 weeks old puppy and take a chance — call somebody else! The earliest we let our puppies go to the new home weeks old 6 weeks old first shot 8 weeks old second shot 12 weeks old third shot 16 weeks old forth shot Puppy Vaccination Schedule Thank you for your understanding! Discover the art of nurturing your French Bulldog, whether a puppy or an adult, through our expert guidance. With an impressive 32 years of experience as French Bulldog specialists, we are uniquely positioned to provide invaluable insights. Our primary goal is to extend our assistance to you, irrespective of your decision to acquire a puppy from an alternative source. As accomplished veterinarians specializing in French and English Bulldogs, our knowledge spans three decades. We focus exclusively on these breeds, surpassing even the knowledge of general veterinarians. This specialization is vital as traditional veterinarians often cater to a diverse array of animals, which may hinder their ability to provide tailored guidance for a single breed. Numerous individuals remain unaware of optimal feeding practices for their Frenchies or English Bulldogs, both before and after the six-month mark. The intricacies of vitamin supplementation, appropriate shampoos, bathing techniques, and proper walking routines are often overlooked.

What is a Grey French Bulldog? Some of them are recognized by the American Kennel Club, while others are not. Grey is not one of the official Frenchie colors, however, it is considered one of the rarer French Bulldog colors. So what does a Grey Frenchie look like? This gives the coat a beautiful, multi-dimensional appearance that shimmers in the light. Dark face and ears: The face and ears of a Sable French Bulldog may be darker than the rest of the body, with black or dark brown coloration around the eyes and on the ears. This gives the dog a striking and distinctive appearance. Grizzled appearance: The combination of black and brown hairs in the coat can give a Sable French Bulldog a grizzled appearance, with a mix of darker and lighter hairs that create a beautiful and unique coat pattern. The whole coat has a diluted black appearance that ends up looking grey. It is similar to the Pied Frenchie with how its patches look. The grey color of Grey French Bulldogs is a result of a recessive gene that affects the black coat color of a typical French Bulldog. Recessive genes only show their effects if an individual has two copies of the gene — one from each parent. French Bulldogs that have one copy of the dilution gene will have black coats, but they can still pass on the gene to their offspring. Inheritance of the Dilution Gene To produce a Grey French Bulldog, both parents must either be Grey themselves or carry one copy of the dilution gene. Health Concerns While Grey French Bulldogs are popular and unique, the dilution gene responsible for their blue coloration can also cause health issues. Genetic testing can help identify any potential health issues related to this gene. How much are Grey French Bulldogs? Grey French Bulldogs typically cost more than your standard colors. Grey is one of these colors. They cost a lot to breed and are high in-demand… everyone wants a Frenchie nowadays. Is a Frenchie worth it to you? It is for me! Learn if a Frenchie is right for you Is a Frenchie right for me? Unfortunately, Grey is one of these colors. As their Grey appearance is due to a dilution of pigment in their coat, they are prone to a condition known as Color Dilution Alopecia which causes hair follicles to become weakened due to the dilution of pigment, leading to hair loss and skin inflammation. Symptoms of Color Dilution Alopecia Thin hair. Weight: Less than 28 pounds. Size: inches. Temperament: Sociable, laid-back and attentive. Blue French Bulldog Appearance Despite their small size they stand with a confidence that outshines their height. The breed itself is well-known for their characteristic smushed-in face and bat-like ear, which are always pricked and attentive to their surroundings. While their tails are often short and stumpy, they are not docked. Blue Frenchies are a small and stocky breed with a smooth coat. Size The Blue French Bulldog is inches tall and should not exceed 28 pounds. Thanks to their genetics their coat has that marvelous blue color, often either solid or with some white markings on the chest and belly. Special attention should be given to these areas while grooming as wrinkles can easily trap bacteria. They will shed twice a year. Frenchies are also popular on social media — Manny the Frenchie has over 1 million Instagram followers. They are unable to give birth naturally and often need a C-Section. This breed almost ended up with the rose ear of the English Bulldog, rather than the bat ears this dog is well-known for. They are playful and alert pups who often enjoy basic dog games like fetch. Due to their flat faces they will settle for a walk around the block. Still no matter the game all they want to do is be with you. Blue Frenchies rarely barks and will often quietly get your attention. They are social and adaptable dogs that are able to get used to any situation. These pups especially enjoy the company of people, children and other dogs. Just remember that young children should be taught manners and respect when it comes to handling a dog of any breed. Because of their small size, it can be easy for them to get hurt, so it is important to remind your children to not treat your pup like a teddy bear. If they are not stimulated they can be a tad destructive, so make sure you give them an outlet for their energy — toys and exercise work best. This breed loves is tug-of-war. Due to their clinginess they may be prone to developing separation anxiety. Yes, they can provide lots of fun for the family as well as lots of cuddles on the couch. However as previously mentioned just make sure your younger children are educated on how to properly handle small dogs. Because of their brachycephalic face you should make sure to avoid overexertion while exercising. Grooming them is easy as well — just pay attention to their wrinkles as bacteria and food can get trapped between the folds. The biggest thing to look out for is their health more on this later. All in all this dog is suitable for any household, from family homes to apartments. Just make sure their needs are being met and they will be happy. Exercise Requirements This breed does not need a lot of exercise. A simple walk around the block with some off-leash play in the park is enough. Whilst they are happy with nearly any activity make sure to avoid swimming. Their top-heavy bodies can act as an anchor, making pools and lakes dangerous for this dog. These dogs would rather surf TV channels than waves! Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding When it comes to grooming they are fairly low maintenance. For their bluish gray coat, a quick brush with a rubber glove every other day with a monthly bath are all it needs. Their wrinkles need extra attention. Be sure to clean their faces weekly with dog-safe wipes as food and bacteria can get caught in between their folds. Cleaning those bat ears is a must to prevent infection, as well as maintaining proper dental hygiene. Because they are not the most active breed pay attention to their nails and trim them if they do not wear down on their own. Feeding and Diet As they are an inactive breed keep track of their diet. Overfeeding can lead to them gaining weight due to their low activity levels. This dog should not exceed 28 pounds as extra weight can put stress on their joints. Checking with your vet is a great way to gauge how much food your dog needs as well as what type of food would be best for them. Avoid kibble brands with excess fillers or by-products. An experimental study observed that obese dogs who were on a weight loss program better conserved lean body mass while on a high-protein diet. Due to their flat faces they can have respiratory issues. You can hear this through their snorting and labored breathing in hot weather or after exercise. In addition Blue French Bulldogs are susceptible to spine malformations and can be born with hemivertebrae or abnormally shaped spine bones. As well as some skin issues, there is the risk of color dilution alopecia. This can result in self-destruction of the follicle and permanent hair loss. No breed is entirely free of health problems but Blue French Bulldogs need extra research when it comes to finding a reputable breeder. Be sure to invest in good health insurance in case any of these issues arise later in life. If you plan ahead, you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on. About Grey French Bulldog: setting the facts straight Breed standard French Bulldogs are white, cream, fawn, or a combination of these colors. Colors other than these are classed as anomalous, including the blue French Bulldog more commonly referred to as grey or gray. The grey French Bulldog is a standard French Bulldog with a non-standard coat color. Grey fur is simply a diluted version of black and occurs when a French Bulldog inherits a dilution gene from each of its parents. Grey coats are linked to certain health conditions that tend to be misunderstood. CDA is a recessive genetic condition associated with Frenchies who have two copies of the recessive dilution gene which causes their grey coats. It can be managed with prescribed products from your vets such as shampoo and skin lotion. Grey French Bulldogs can also develop any health conditions that other color Frenchies are prone to, including: Allergies. These are often skin allergies and can be triggered by food or environmental factors Brachycephalic-related problems. Dogs with short muzzles often suffer from these problems which include breathing difficulties. Cherry Eye. This is related to the third eyelid that can move out of position. Cleft Palate. This is usually genetic and manifests as a problem with the opening in the roof of the mouth. This is a genetic condition and is more common in the white French Bulldog. Degenerative Myelopathy. This is a serious problem that affects the spine and tends to affect older dogs. A genetic problem related to the eyelid, affecting how it grows. Another hereditary problem affecting the eyelids. Heat Exhaustion. The French Bulldog cannot regulate its temperature easily which can lead to serious health problems if not addressed quickly. This causes deformity of the spine and is present at birth. Hip Dysplasia. A hip condition that causes mobility problems and can require surgery. Patellar Luxation. This is a painful condition where the kneecap dislocates or develops in an abnormal position. Stenotic Nares. This is a narrowing of the nostrils. Tracheal Collapse. A respiratory disease related to the windpipe. A bleeding disorder, similar to Hemophilia. Do grey French Bulldogs shed? All dogs shed, even the short-haired French Bulldog and because grey Frenchies develop CDA, they can lose more hair than other colors. Regular grooming removes loose hair that would otherwise be lost around your home. Correct treatment of CDA can also help to prevent excess shedding. What makes a French Bulldog grey or gray or blue? In order for a French Bulldog to have a grey coat, it must carry two copies of a recessive gene known as the dilution gene. This gene is termed recessive because its effects are only visible when a puppy inherits two copies: one from its mother and one from its father. Grey coloring is, in effect, a dilute version of black and is sometimes referred to as blue because it has a bluish tint in certain lights. There are many different shades of grey Frenchie, ranging from very pale to dark slate. There are also several patterns that include a blue color. The color ranges from light silvery grey to almost black slate grey. This Frenchie coat has no other markings at all and the dog usually has matching blue or grey eyes. A Blue Brindle French Bulldog has blue or grey fur with brindle striping. This pattern is sometimes referred to as tiger-striped. In blue Frenchies, these darker brindle patterns often only become apparent once puppies reach 4 weeks of age. You will see a blue pied Frenchie with a slightly lower percentage of white background at times. Blue Fawn A French Bulldog with mostly fawn fur and a mask of blue fur around its muzzle, eyes, and ears is referred to as Blue Fawn. Blue Fawn French Bulldogs are very sought after and difficult to come by because they are relatively rare. It is rare because merle dogs are difficult to breed. This pretty Frenchie has what is known as a merle gene which removes pigment from random patches of their blue coats. The result is a random patched pattern of white fur among what otherwise would have been a solid blue coat color. Are Blue French Bulldogs rare? A French Bulldog only develops a blue or grey coat if it inherits two copies of the rare dilution gene. Of the five blue coat patterns, the rarest is the blue merle. Dog coat genetics are complex and it takes a lot of selective breeding to attempt to breed-specific colors and still the outcome cannot be guaranteed. Reputable breeders concentrate on producing healthy Frenchies as opposed to specific colors, so coats such as blue or grey will always remain rarer than others. What is a grey French Bulldog called? Blue is simply the official name given to grey-colored fur. Grey is not a breed standard French Bulldog color but when this color does occur as a solid coat or within a coat pattern it is officially referred to as blue. This is the same for grey in any other dog breed. A certain shade of grey does have a blue tint, but many are much paler with more of a silver appearance. How much is a grey French Bulldog? It is difficult to predict an exact price for a French Bulldog because it depends on variables such as availability, color, bloodlines, and demand. Why are grey French bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldogs are not straightforward to breed and this makes them expensive to produce. The fact that grey Frenchies are rare and in high demand means French Bulldog breeders can charge more for them. People whose hearts are set on owning a blue Frenchie are willing to pay extra and so breeders are able to command high prices. If a grey French Bulldog has blue eyes it is often one of the most expensive. Such a Frenchie usually has a blue merle coat which is one of the rarest to find. Do grey French Bulldogs have blue eyes? When they are born, grey French Bulldogs always have blue eyes. This is actually an optical illusion caused by the absence of melanin the color pigment at birth. Though their eyes look blue, they really have no color. Many French Bulldogs develop brown eyes but some of those with grey coats may have pale blue or green eyes. In this breed, the dogs most likely to have bright blue eyes are Blue Merle Frenchies and this is related to their specific genetics. Other useful Grey French Bulldog facts Lifespan The life expectancy of a grey French bulldog is 10 to 12 years, the same as any other color. However, Frenchie owners need to look out keep a close watch for health problems. Annual vaccinations and health checks are essential as is a healthy diet and the right level of exercise. Air travel is not recommended for dogs with short muzzles because of associated breathing difficulties. Also, grey Frenchies and any other color cannot swim for very long because of their large head and short muzzle, so should be kept away from water or always wear a doggie life jacket. Size Like other colors, grey French Bulldogs can weigh up to 28 lbs and reach a height of 11 to 13 inches. Frenchies can become overweight quite easily so ensure you feed one the right amount to prevent it from developing weight-related illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Characteristics A grey French Bulldog has a square head, a short muzzle, wrinkly face, and trademark bat ears. Its body is compact and muscular. In general, Frenchies have smooth, short coats that are easy to care for and require minimum grooming. Their coats tend to have thinned or bald patches and can appear quite dull and mangy. Their skin may also have dry flaky patches. Because of its short muzzle, this breed tends to be a mouth breather and consequently drools more than the average dog! Frenchies can also be a bit smelly but there are ways to manage this. Temperament A grey French bulldog possesses the same gentle, friendly temperament as those with other coat colors. They are great dogs to have around children because of their playful , outgoing natures. Being a sociable breed, the Frenchie prefers someone to be around most of the time and does not like to be left alone. Some find Frenchies quite stubborn and wilful but if one chooses not to go where you want, you can simply pick it up and carry it! Ideal for A grey Frenchie can fit into many lifestyles. Approved colors are:. Me What is a Blue French Bulldog? A blue French bulldog is a variation of the French bulldog breed, known for its distinctive blue-gray coat color. French bulldogs are a popular breed of domestic dogs, known for their small size, muscular build, and wrinkled faces. The blue coat color is a result of a genetic mutation that results in a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, giving it a blue-gray appearance. What makes them blue? The blue coat color in blue French bulldogs is the result of a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment in their fur. This mutation affects the melanin pigment in the hair follicles, resulting in a blue-gray appearance. The mutation is caused by a recessive gene, which means that a blue French bulldog must inherit two copies of the gene one from each parent in order to express the blue coat color. Are Blue Frenchies really blue? Blue French bulldogs are not actually blue in color. The blue coat color is a misnomer, and these dogs are actually gray-blue or silver in appearance. The blue color is the result of a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, which gives it a bluish hue. Silver Blue: This is a lighter shade of blue that is similar to silver color. Dark Blue: This is a deeper, almost black, shade of blue. Blue Brindle: This is a blue coat with a brindle pattern, which is characterized by streaks of dark fur interspersed with lighter fur. Blue Fawn: This is a blue coat with a fawn-colored undercoat, giving the dog a blue-gray appearance with a lighter underbelly. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are typically good with children and other pets and make great companions for families and individuals alike. They are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise needs, making them a good choice for apartment living or for people with limited time for dog walking. Grooming Grooming your blue French bulldog is important for maintaining its health and appearance. Brush your dog regularly to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or a rubber brush to remove tangles and mats. Bathe your blue Frenchie as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be careful to avoid getting soap in their eyes or ears, and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently clean the inside of their ears. Brush his teeth regularly to maintain their oral health and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Blue Frenchies get on well with children Blue French bulldogs generally get along well with children. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful, and they tend to be good with children. They have a gentle and patient temperament, making them a great choice for families with kids. Size Blue French bulldogs are a small breed of dog and typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds, with males being larger than females. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. However, French bulldogs are generally a compact and muscular breed with a short, stocky build, and are well-proportioned for their size Lifespan The lifespan of a blue French bulldog is typically 10 to 12 years. Like all dogs, the lifespan of a blue French bulldog can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. A French bulldog can appear blue due to a genetic dilution of the black pigment in their coat, causing a blue-grey hue to appear. Are Blue Frenchies rare? Yes, Blue Frenchies are considered a rare coat color and therefore may be more expensive and difficult to find. What is the temperament of a blue French Bulldog? The temperament of a blue French Bulldog can vary, but generally, they are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs. They are known to be loyal companions and are good with children. Why should I choose Tomkings Kennel? We at TomKings Kennel are committed to the health, well-being, and responsible breeding of French Bulldogs. We put the needs of our animals first, and strive to produce healthy and well-adjusted pets that are well-suited to their new homes. We test our breeding dogs for genetic health issues and work to prevent the spread of inherited diseases. We also provide proper veterinary care for our dogs, including regular check-ups and vaccinations. We carefully plan our breeding programs to produce healthy, well-adjusted offspring. We also limit the number of litters our females produce to ensure that each animal receives the proper care and attention. We provide our dogs with clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions. We also provide our pups with regular exercise and socialization opportunities. We are transparent and open in our communication with potential Frenchie owners. We are happy to answer all your questions and provide information about our breeding practices and the care we provide to our puppies. We have a deep love and commitment to the French Bulldog breed and we work to promote and protect the health and well-being of the breed as a whole.

Show more How much grooming does an English Bulldog need? English Bulldogs have short fur that generally only needs an occasional brush. They often have skinfolds which require regular cleaning. Speak to your vet for advice on how to do this for your dog. What size crate do you need for an English Bulldog? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully s.English Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. This ter.Are English Bulldogs easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and prior experiences. So, every English Bulldog temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They de.Show more Are English Bulldogs good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We produce beautiful black and red, as well as solid black German Shepherd puppies. We keep our puppy owners actively involved from before the time your pup is even born! You will get progress updates on mom, pictures as she grows, videos of the puppies moving in mom, etc all up until the day the pups are born. Then, you will get updates as the puppies are born, as well as pictures. It is not just about coming to pick up a puppy at 8 weeks, but it is a growing relationship between us to truly have you a part of our Samherz family. We become good friends with a lot of our puppy owners, as there will always be questions, concerns, stories, etc to share after you take your new puppy home. We are here to help. We require the best for our puppies, and we want you to have the best too. Samherz is located on 35 acres of gorgeous land, giving our dogs and puppies exposure to sights, sounds, smells and everything in between to ensure they grow up well socialized. We have done extensive research to choose the best pairings to produce top quality companion animals, as well as conformation, sport and working prospects. We currently breed European bloodlines only, avoiding crossing any working lines. Our breeding program proudly uses dogs that have generations beyond generations of solid hip and elbow clearances, as we follow SV guidelines in which all parents, grandparents, etc have certifications. Our puppies are true German shepherds, not American line, and are bred within the breed standard. We breed health tested and stable temperament dogs only. Our dogs are part of our family, loved and cared for and raised in our home. Feel free to contact us with questions, comments or simply to share pictures of your pups! We love to expand our friendship pool! Samherz Shepherds name came from the heart of our kennel, Samurai, call name Sam. The German word for heart is "herz". It is with great honor that our kennel is named after our impeccable companion, Sam. We will see him again on the other side of the rainbow bridge. Proudly created by Wix. Minnesota German Shepherd Breeder located in Brainerd. German Shepherd Resources German Shepherds are truly gems of the Canine world, so it comes as no surprise that you are considering or have decided to add to your family. The breed is highly versatile as it can be used as family dogs or companion dogs, show dogs, police dogs, therapy dogs, and a lot more. They are a true working dog breed with a lot of love to give. They are blessed with high intelligence so they are easily trainable dogs which is what makes them very versatile. States like Minnesota are no strangers to the German Shepherd breed. There are lots of German Shepherd breeders residing in different locations within the state. And just as there are many breeders, not all these breeders are reputable breeders that truly care for the breed. This is why it is recommended that you take out the extra time to know your chosen breeder. In this article, we try to make the search for a good German Shepherd breeder a lot easier for you by providing you with a list of 10 good German Shepherd breeders in Minnesota that have showcased good breeding practices as well as impressive socialization and training programs for each of their German Shepherd litters. We advise that you only view this list as a mere guide to aid you in finding that perfect German Shepherd puppy for you. With that being said, do ensure you read till the end as it promises to be both engaging and informative. Located in Roosevelt, Minnesota, Northern Sky German Shepherds is a reputable German Shepherd breeder that is focused on raising AKC-registered German Shepherd puppies that are mainly bred as family companions but also double as either therapy dogs or service dogs. Their dogs are IPO titled and are either solid black in color or black and red. All their German Shepherd parents are imports from West German show lines with impressive pedigrees and good health. They are blessed with good conformation, high intelligence, and decent temperament. Their dogs are made to undergo genetic health testing as well as orthopedic health testing to show they are indeed ready to be added to their breeding program. When they are not being bred, they are kept as family pets. All dogs both adult and puppies are raised in the home of Lyndi and Russ located in Roosevelt, Minnesota. Their puppies are properly socialized using humans both children and adults to keep them occupied. They are also given basic training and are properly checked by the licensed vet who administers their vaccination shots and deworming. Every puppy should come with a written health guarantee. They should be vaccinated and dewormed and also come microchipped.

Breed Title Goldador Puppies Temperament Goldadors are an amazing combination of the intelligence and trainability of the Labrador and the friendly, gentle personality of the Golden Retriever. With their outgoing, friendly character and sweet disposition, Goldadors make excellent family pets around children and other animals as they have a great aptitude for understanding people. In terms of temperament, these beloved pups are highly sociable but not overly boisterous or hyper; they enjoy playing fetch but rest just as happily on your lap or at your feet while you work. Golden Labrador Retriever Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Goldadors for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Golden Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Finding a Golden Labrador puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Depending on the climate they live in, Goldadors may need regular baths — however omitting shampoo once or twice a year will ensure their coat retains its natural oils. Finally it is recommended to check the ears regularly and trim nails as needed. Adopted Golden Labrador Retriever Puppies. Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor Grapes or raisins Golden Retriever Crossed with Labrador Exercise Requirements The Lab Golden Retriever Mix has an active temperament so they might get destructive if they get bored. It is recommended to exercise them at least 2 hours daily. Getting them to do physical activities every day will help keep him happy and healthy. Here are some outdoor activities that you can try with your Golden Retriever Lab Mix: Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog. Swimming: Utilize your private pool and do a swimming exercise with your dog companion. Swimming does not only serve as an exercise activity to yourself and to your companion dog, but it is also a great bonding experience. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. Make sure you supervise your dog all the time while doing this activity. Dock Diving: This is a fun sports activity to enjoy with your dog. All you have to do is throw a floating toy and encourage your dog to jump and swim out to retrieve it. If you and your Golden Retriever Lab Mix want to upgrade the challenge, you can try joining a Dock Diving Club and compete with other dogs. Play Fetch: This is a classic outdoor game that is great to do in summer. Challenge your dog by putting a twist to the activity, you can either use a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to make the object travel farther for your Golden Labrador to retrieve and return back to you. However, you should not be working them too much because when it comes to recovering objects, both parent breeds of Golden Retriever Lab Mix can be overly enthusiastic. However, even though they are intelligent dogs and has a friendly nature, you still need to put time and effort to train them better. Both parent breeds were bred to carry things. The best way to teach your Goldador not to bark is to socialize them frequently with strangers. Use Positive Reinforcement The Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever is a sensitive type of dog, so training them using positive reinforcement will be very helpful. Make sure to avoid negative punishment-based training since this hybrid dog may end up fearing you rather than respecting you as their leader. Make it a regular routine to reward your puppy whenever they do something right. Training your Goldador consistently in a positive method will give you pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Do Mental Exercise The Golden Retriever mixed with Lab is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing any aggressive behaviors, such as nuisance barking and chewing. Without proper mental exercise, Goldador puppies will grow into a passive, timid and uninspired dog. Labrador Golden Retriever Mix and Families Despite its large size, the Labrador mixed with Golden Retriever is a great family dog because of its easy-going personality. It is extremely friendly and affectionate. The Goldador is the type of dog that goes well in a loving and active family — one that considers him as a family member. The Golden Labradors cherish the company with children. They are naturally gentle, but they can play tirelessly as long as your kids can keep up. However, due to their sheer size, supervision is still needed around toddlers and infants. The Goldadors makes an excellent therapy and companion dog. Because of their affectionate nature, they generally do well when given lots of attention and affection. These hybrid dogs love to be with people, and hence it is tough for them to cope with solitude. So give love lots of love and affection to your Goldador Lab Retriever Mix and expect that it will shower you back with love. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article.

Initially when a male puppy is born, their testicles are inside their body. However, the testicles need to be kept in a cooler environment so need to descend from within the body to be outside in the scrotum of the dog. Temperature of testicles needs to be lower than the body temperature to optimise sperm production. Having testicles remain inside the body, called cryptorchidism, can increase chances of certain cancers too. When should they drop? This is why your veterinary surgeon or registered veterinary nurses will usually have a feel of this area in your puppy when they come in for their health check and vaccinations. The process of their testicles descending can take a little longer in some dogs. But in dogs like many mammals including humans , the testicles are normally in the scrotum long before puberty begins. What happens when dogs are sexually mature? Some people want to neuter their dogs when their testicles have descended. Decisions regarding the age of neutering are often based on the age at which the dog is estimated to reach sexual maturity. It is understood that male dogs may reach puberty between 6 months and 2 years quite the range of age. However sexual and skeletal maturity varies from dog to dog depending on their breed. Small breeds grow quicker and reach their adult size much quicker than large and giant breeds who continue to grow for up to 1. We like to wait for dogs to reach maturity first because exposure to gonadal reproductive hormones is necessary for the healthy maturation of a muscular-skeletal system; we want them to be fully mature in their body before we do anything. One reason for doing so was for a positive impact on behaviour. This teenage phase can be a tricky time for owners. So we recommend getting help and support from a positive behaviourist if you are struggling and your veterinary team. What can go wrong? The best scenario is that they drop into the scrotum successfully and we have no further issues. However, sometimes along the way things can go wrong. Sometimes they do start, but for whatever reason stop somewhere along the way, and never make it to the scrotum. This can be the case of both testicles or more often just one. In these cases, your veterinary team will support you in the best course of action for your dog. But usually this involves opening up their abdomen and trying to find the missing testicles or testicles! Sometimes, they are sitting in the inguinal area groin and we can feel them easily, these also need to be removed. Conclusion The physical age testicles can descend is usually before around 8 weeks old. But the age that they actually start displaying sexual behaviour can vary massively between dogs. If your dog has both or one testicle missing by months then you need to start the conversation with your wonderful veterinary team about when the right time to go and retrieve it is! Further reading:. She found a reputable breeder in the west of Ireland with puppies that were soon to be ready for a home. She met both the father and the mother of the pups, which gave her an understanding of how the pups would turn out: they were friendly, good-natured dogs. And the breeder showed Maeve veterinary certificates which confirmed that both father and mother had undergone tests on their eyes and their hips to demonstrate that they were free of inherited disorders. So far, so good. Maeve was happy that she had done as much as possible to be assured that she was buying a good quality puppy. She felt that it was a bit odd to be asked this question, but thought no more of it. The pup, named Freddie, is a gorgeous bundle of fluff, and as soon as he arrived home, everyone wanted to visit him and play with him. In a normal puppy, the testicles descend into the scrotum and can be seen when the pup rolls on his back. When male pups form in the womb, the testicles develop beside the kidneys, but in the first days or weeks of life, they normally descend into the scrotum. Second, dogs with retained testicles need to be castrated. If the testicles are left in the abdomen, they are likely to become cancerous. The warm surroundings of the abdomen cause the testicular cells to multiply more rapidly than in the normal, cooler area of the scrotum, leading to a risk of cancer. Third, the operation to castrate a dog with retained testicles is more complicated and so more expensive than a normal operation, because a hunt has to be carried out inside the abdomen to locate and remove the undescended testicles. For these three reasons, puppies with retained testicles are less desirable than normal pups, and they are normally sold at a cheaper price. As a result, she feels a little hard done by: it would have been preferable if the breeder had mentioned the issue, and given Maeve a small discount in recompense. February 24, at pm Hi Kate. The best and only information we have for choosing the time of desexing can be found in this article. You will find that neither statements are supported by the evidence in similar breeds, and there is no reason to think that Havanese are especially different. I then went and visited another vet to get another opinion, who said then same and then a 3rd. Out of 3 vets, 2 suggested half castration, just removing the non-fallen ball, and then the other with full castration. He now has his operation scheduled in mid feb and it would be great if you could provide me with your professional opinion- 1 or both? Any advice would be much appreciated, apologies for the long post. January 30, at pm Hi Beatrice. I think it is quite logical to only remove the undescended testicle. I have certainly done so in the past, to allow for normal secondary sexual characteristics. My only concern regarding a dog with a single descended testicle is that they remain fertile, but regardless of this should be taken out of the breeding population. However it seems that you have no intention of breeding. He comes from a champion bloodline. I bought him with the intention of breeding; however, my wife and children want him as a pet and are hurt that I may ship him back. At 14 weeks purchased at 12 weeks the Local Vet informed me that he suffers from cryptorchid unilateral. What are the chances that the second testicle descends? Andrew says: Hi Terry. Good luck. Mary Lou Kizer DVM says: December 15, at pm Hello Andrew, I am a vet in Colorado, USA have a client who is asking me to remove a retained testicle which is obviously near the inguinal ring in the SQ tissue, while leaving the descended testicle to be removed later, after waiting for further testosterone influence to help with joint development. She claims to want to use him for agility or other athletic endeavors. This is a schipperke, and she admitted to me early on that she was planning to use him at stud, now seems to be changing this plan. Can you please give me guidance as to how I can communicate with this client, as I feel like I am being asked to do something unethical. Andrew says: December 15, at pm Hi Mary. This is a problem I have faced as well. Recently I have started only doing it with a vasectomy of the descended testicle. Terry says: December 14, at am Is this inherited from the mom or the dad? How do you know if it is the male or female that carries it? My Aussie had one male that is 4 months old and his have not dropped yet. I do not want to bred her again to my male if this is genetic but how would I find out if it is her or him? If the puppy does not drop I will make it right with the buyer I want to be a responsible breeder. Thank you for any feedback. Terry December 14, at pm Hi Terry. In the lack of a genetic test, there is no way to work out easily whether it comes from the sire or dam. The only way might be their previous breeding histories. Good on you for taking the problem seriously. Dawn says: December 4, at pm My maltese puppy is almost. He had his first puppy appointment November 28, and the vet says he is healthy. Should I be worried that his testicles has not come down as of yet? Andrew says: Hi Dawn. Elaine Chapman says: April 12, at pm Hi my maltese puppy is 4 months old and also has no testicles, we are devastated, the owner we purchased our puppy from said her vet noted he had 2 testicles and dropped but upon receiving him and our vet check he had never had them. What can I do, the breeder is lying to us. Andrew says: Hi Elaine. Renee savage says: November 30, at pm Hi,I have a 6 month golden retreiver with double cryptorchidism. I have heard many different ages as to when to neuter. His brother and father were fine. Now at about 4 months of age, one puppy has been identified as having one undescended testicle. Did the first vet get it wrong? This is a golden retriever, so the owner is reluctant to desex earlier than necessary due to risks to joints. What age would you recommend to have this dog desexed? Thanks Andrew says: November 29, at pm Hi Maree. Cam Ross says: November 23, at pm Hi Andrew. My pup is 14 weeks old, on a show contract with only 1 testicle dropped so far. Is it worth getting an ultrasound to see where it is located and if it will drop? How costly would this be? Andrew says: November 24, at am Hi Cam. However, as stated in the article, dogs with retained testicles should not be bred as this only creates more problems for future generations. I only hope the breeder is of the same opinion. Cam Ross says: December 6, at pm I understand that surgical exploration would find it but is it worth finding out where it is currently located in the hope it will drop? Or do you think we are past that point now? Andrew says: All you can ethically do is wait until 6 months to be sure, and then have it removed at the recommended desexing age for your breed. Lynne A Bear says: April 16, at am Aloha, I am a foster for a 10 yr old sweet chihuahua who weighs 5 lbs. Both testicles are up in abdomen. One of them you can feel, the other…. He also has a jaw issue. Was told he was kicked by prior owner. Wont know the extent until sedated. He needs his teeth pulled from rot. Should I put him through both surgeries at once or just do most important which is teeth? His labs shows slight kidney problems. Please advise me on what to do for this sweet expensive little foster guy. In such a small dog at risk of hypothermia during surgery, I would normally do two such major procedures under separate anaesthetics. As such, I would do the teeth first but then follow up very quickly with the retained testicles, as these are also of great concern. This order could be reversed if there are any concerns that the testicles have already become neoplastic, which could be determined with an ultrasound examination first. Arianna says: July 11, at am Hi Andrew. My dog is a 9 year-old shih tzu, my mother never really gave much importance to his retained testicle and now it is a bit bigger than the one that did descend. Should I try to convince my mom to have him get the surgery or not? What do you think we should do? Andrew says: July 11, at pm Hi Arianna. Nine years old for a small breed dog is really quite young. Otherwise it will almost certainly be his end. Genevieve says: My French bulldog had a litter of 6 puppies , one male had this condition bilateral! Andrew says: Hi Genevieve. That is true, although sadly very few do so, which is why we think the rate of undescended testicles is increasing. John says: I have a 1 year and 1 month old maltease dog. He have 1 undescended testicle. Can not neuter him or should I. I want to keep him as it is. His health is normal and he is energetic. Andrew says: Hi John. As the article says, he will be at great risk if you do not remove the undescended testicle. Andrew says: Hi Cesar. Christina Mertz says: September 24, at pm Hi, I have a mini doxie and 1 testicle is retained. Doxies are supposed to wait a little longer than the typical 6 months for neutering to allow their backs to fully develop since those are problem areas. I have him scheduled for a neutering just before 7 months. I am uncertain if I should wait, as I am nervous about cancer, or go through with it and hope his back will be developed enough. The Breed Problems at the 7 Week Check Up This page will discuss how we handle problems we discover at the 7 week check up. Most importantly, if there is a health problem with your puppy at the 7 week check up, you will be notified ASAP. We do these checkups between 6 weeks 5 days and 7 weeks 1 day if possible. If the problem is something that could have long term implications, you can forego your puppy. I will discuss below the problems that could be discovered at the exam and how we handle problems at the 7 week check up. Undescended Testicles The most common potential problem that our 7 week check up reveals is undescended testicles. Well over half of our male puppies do not have both testicles descended at the 7 week check up. Since we have been breeding, we have had only 4 puppies whose testicles never descended. All of them had both testicles down by 10 weeks. It is purely a developmental issue. The vast majority of puppies from our lines have testicles that descend between 8 and 10 weeks of age. One was almost 6 months. At that time, the testicle will be taken care of. We have checked with both of the vet practices that we use as to the additional cost of this minor procedure. I have talked to other breeders to see what their vets charge and these charges are fairly consistent across most of the country. If your vet should insist on neutering early because of an increased possibility of testicular cancer, please read these links where you will see that studies have shown that these risks are very small for young dogs. The benefits of late neutering far outweigh this small risk of testicular cancer. We recommend neutering these dogs just over a year. We have sent home 3 puppies with benign heart murmurs grade 1. All 3 of them outgrew it by months. We have never had a puppy with a true heart problem. However, benign heart murmurs are fairly common in Golden Retriever puppies. These murmurs are caused by the sections of the heart growing at different rates. When vets hear a grade 1 murmur in a young puppy, waiting is usually the first recommendation as long as the puppy is playing and acting normally. We have never had a murmur that was more than a grade 1. If your puppy should have a murmur, even if it is only a grade 1, we give you the option of forfeiting the puppy and getting a full refund. We will keep the puppy and train him until he outgrows the murmur and then sell him to someone else as a trained puppy. If you take the puppy and then the murmur becomes something serious, the terms of our contract apply. There is no discount when you take the puppy. All parents have hearts tested. There are no heart problems in our lines. The chances of there being a significant heart issue is small. Any health problem that we are aware of will be made known to families getting our puppies. With significant issues, it is the owners choice as to how they want to proceed. We are aware that many people fly in to get our puppies and that flights have sometimes been reserved. We do all we possibly can to provide a healthy puppy to families at the time that they plan on picking up their puppy. However, with anything living, no one can totally control all the possibilities. If there should be a problem found before puppy selection of any significance, it will be the last person on our list for that particular gender who would be given a refund and forfeit getting a puppy. See our page on Raising Puppies for information on how we raise them and keep them healthy. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Doodles are her love and she has more than goldendoodles placed in homes throughtout the United States from Sophie's Goldendoodles. In , she began to feel frustrated with the number of Goldendoodle breeders in Idaho that didn't know what they were doing. They would make claims that weren't true and let puppies go to their homes when they were too young, not checked by a vet, or sick. Breeding wasn't restricted to a credible goldendoodle registry. She started researching ways to make the breed better and ran across a miniature Australian Labradoodle at a park in Boise, Idaho. She was thrilled to see the requirements to register the Australian Labradoodle and the gentle nature of the breed. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. The journey was inspired by a vision impaired woman in Hawaii who needed a Guide Dog which wouldn't aggravate her husband's allergies. For years, Cyndi has refused to breed labradoodles because the Lab is a working dog. The distinction is the Australian labradoodle has a service dog temperament which is fantastic for families. The main aim of this shelter is to match their pups with their ideal owners. They take extra care to place all their Labradoodles in loving, caring homes. All dogs go through a health examination process to make sure they are free of any diseases and any harmful parasites. When it comes to the pricing, all these pups are priced uniformly, irrespective of their color or coats. When you adopt a puppy from this shelter, it will also come with their vaccination and medical records that will help you keep a check on them. If for any reason, you find it difficult to care for the dog after you have adopted it, you can always take it back to the shelter. The main aim of their Guardian Program is to provide high-quality breeding dogs. It also aims to provide families with Labradoodles that are extremely loving, playful, and disciplined. The Selkirk Australian Labradoodles also ensure that the dogs are moved into a home where they will not be deprived of any love or care. The Guardian Program works helps in matching the right dog for the owner. If the owner has a very unstable home or causes any stress for the family, the owner can return the dog to the shelter. They particularly specialize in the breeding of Goldendoodles, but they have recently started to breed mini Labradoodles. How cute! Do you want to adopt your family pup from this shelter? This will be done once your application form has been approved. The price of the dog depends on the size. The deposit is non-refundable, and it will be a part of whatever is the total cost. Contact Information Contact: 7. Eagle Ridge Australian Labradoodles, Idaho The main goal of this shelter, which makes it one of the seven best Labradoodle breeders in Idaho ID , is to match the correct dogs with the correct owners. The owner makes sure to place these pups in a loving home where they can be cared for at all times. This shelter also provides five years against any sort of genetic illness. They also come with a microchip, and these pups are regularly vaccinated to keep them disease-free. They come in different types of coats, colors, and so on. Contact Information. Labradoodles are a combination of Poodle and Labrador Retrievers. Labradoodles are very smart and loving! They have great temperaments, eager to please their families, typically easy to train and they are very loyal! These great quantities make for excellent service dogs. The puppies get these great quantities from both their parents of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. If you desire a dog that is family-friendly, medium energy, has unconditional love for you or your kiddos, comfortable inside or outside, loves the water and the land, full of adventures then you should definitely consider a Labradoodle! Fill out our Puppy Application if you are interested in one of our litters! As we have a good idea of coat, color and size when we pair parents, we can't guarantee these. Same as humans, genetics are made up of so many generations. You never know when a grandparent gene will show up!! They will need to be brushed regularly and groomed when necessary! Our F1 Labradoodles are typically low maintenance! Our solid color puppies will sometimes have a white patch on their chest! This typically comes from the poodle genes! Micro Mini: Up to 25lbs we do not currently breed this size, but this is a future goal!! Mini: lbs. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Star Idaho and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

If you notice any symptoms or changes to their appetite, mood, or energy levels, make an appointment with your vet. As a large mixed breed, New Sheps may tend to grow and develop rapidly. This can cause bone and joint issues in the long run. This is often a higher quality food that is lower in calories. It is important for this food to contain high-quality ingredients and to be free of any fillers, preservatives, or additives that will unnecessarily add calories to the food. Always measure out the appropriate amount for each meal. As a puppy, it is best to restrict treats and snacks too. Even as a puppy, your New Shep will require regular exercise. As mentioned, though, these pups are at higher risk of bone and joint issues since they grow so rapidly from the age of four to seven months. You need to be careful with how you exercise your puppy for this period. Steer clear of hard pavements and surfaces — anything that can be tough on their bones or joints. In particular, prevent them from jumping around on such surfaces. It is fine for them to play on grass and similarly soft surfaces. If your pup takes after their Newfoundland parent, they will love to swim, so this is an activity that you can try. Swimming is a great way for your pup to get a workout without putting too much stress on their joints. For high-energy dogs, break this up into two sessions. A brisk walk is the easiest physical activity. Frisbee and fetch are great for keeping things interesting. A good way to decide how much exercise your dog needs is to give them about 30 minutes and take note of their energy levels. If they seem content and not overly tired, you have hit the right time limit. If your pup still seems to have a lot of energy, slowly increase their playtime until they are satisfied. You should be aware that some New Sheps can be a bit lazy when it comes to exercise. Despite this, your dog should get a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a day. You may need to be a bit firm about taking them outside. If your pooch is on the smaller side and takes after their German Shepherd more, they may also enjoy agility training. On the other hand, make sure that you schedule a regular swimming session if your New Shep takes after their Newfoundland parent a bit more. You can expect quite a bit of shedding with this mixed breed. The best way to minimize this is to brush them regularly. Make it a point to brush your dog at least three times a week to reduce loose fur around the house. You will need to use a slicker brush and an undercoat rake as your dog has a double coat. It will make all the difference. If your New Shep has a coat that is more similar to Newfoundland, you should be aware that it will attract dirt, grit, and burrs. This means that your dog needs to be brushed whenever you take them out to a wooded area or a dog park. Failing to do so can leave the fur matted and dirty. Your dog will likely blow their coat a couple of times a year and the shedding will reach peak levels at this point. During this period, you should brush them out every day and use the undercoat rake more regularly. You will also have to add a de-shedding brush to the routine. Once every month or two is more than enough unless your dog gets dirty. Bathing them too often can dry out their skin and damage their coat. It should be noted that their coat can be rather overwhelming to the groom. This is why owners will often hire groomers to handle this task. They are best suited to cool or cold climates. They should always be kept indoors when the sun is out. It is best if they are close to a fan or air conditioning. Keep a close eye on your pooch to make sure that they are as cool as possible. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest parts of the day as they can overheat quickly. Give them exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. New Sheps are far too big for apartments. They need a lot of space so they will work better in larger homes. In smaller spaces, they may be prone to knocking things over. If your New Shep is of the high energy variety, though, having access to a yard can help them to burn off some excess energy. These dogs love human companionship , so never leave them alone in the yard for a long period. Instead, give them the option of coming in and out so that they can spend time with you when they want. Newfoundland German Shepherds are highly trainable. They have a great work ethic and are intelligent to pick up a wide variety of commands and instructions. You should start their training from the moment you bring your pup home. They can be difficult to control as they get bigger so starting young can help to avoid a lot of issues. These dogs are people pleasers so use positive reinforcement to get them to learn tricks more readily. You will need to find a breeder that specializes in this particular mix. Look for one that has tracked the health of both parent breeds, going back several generations. This can help to prevent various diseases in your pup. This is a rare mixed breed and is a designer one to boot. You may not always find one in a shelter, but looking at German Shepherd or Newfoundland-specific shelters may help. These dogs can grow as tall as 28 inches and weigh over lbs and might need to be classified as an extra-large breed. They are excellent family dogs and are great with children and other pets. This wraps up our guide to Newfoundland German Shepherds. With this information, you can now decide whether this pup is a good fit for you. 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. Final Thoughts The question may arise — if people have carefully perfected purebred dogs, like German Shepherds and Newfoundlands, why do they need to mix these breeds now? The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is not bred accidentally, of course. The answer is that the purpose was to receive the dogs with the best features inherited from the two breeds, such as a larger working potential and a calmer temperament. That is the answer to your question. The new dog hybrid is also called a New Shep or the Newfie Shepherd, and it is a designer dog whose characteristics are more predictable than those of other mixes. After reading this article, you will be able to decide whether this dog is right for you. Characteristics of the Crossbreed If you are interested in a New Shep, learn what characteristic features it inherits from its predecessors — German Shepherds and Newfoundlands. German Shepherds look intimidating and bark loudly. They are highly intelligent and become loyal companions to their beloved owners. They are also pretty trainable, eager to please the owner, and have a strong working drive. Shepherds are multipurpose workers suitable for doing jobs in the police, military, and guidance services. Guarding is also a good job for them because they are fierce and alert. Newfoundlands are much bigger and stronger than Shepherds. Though, they are also much calmer. The abundance of fur and big bones make them look impressive. They are gentle and sweet, but they also make perfect working dogs to carry out emergency services and rescues, especially those that include swimming in icy water. Rescuing children and adults from drowning is the job they have become well-known for. Nowadays, Newfoundlands are kept as home pets. The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix puppy is the offspring of crossbreeding that displays the best characteristics of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. It is larger than a Shepherd but much calmer and more affectionate. It is more open and patient to the presence of strangers, and more welcoming to other animals. Nevertheless, the New Shep has an outstanding work drive and very strong protective instincts. Appearance Like in other dog breeds, males and females differ in size. The male is usually inches cm in height, and they weigh pounds kg. Females are usually smaller and lighter. They can grow as tall as inches cm , and their weight is as much as pounds kg. Some dogs can grow very big and weigh up to pounds 91 kg. The typical Newfoundland German Shepherd mix has medium-length hair, and the double coat is immensely thick. The colors of the coat may vary a lot. These hybrid dogs can be solid black, sable, or even liver, blue, and white. However, the most common color after the GSD is tan with a black saddle. Some crosses may also inherit the color from their Newfoundland parent, and their coat may be brown or gray. The other characteristic features inherited from the two breeds depend on the gene mix. They can do well with children of all ages and people who are not a part of the family. These dogs are pretty approachable, though they may look intimidating because of their massiveness. New Sheps are amazing family dogs without the aggressive tendencies German Shepherds are usually prone to. They are very careful and patient with young kids. If this dog is properly socialized, it can get along well with other household pets. However, it can be wary of other dogs, especially if they are of the same sex. These dogs are very strong and fast, despite their big size. So, they can be excellent herders and work successfully in criminal apprehension for the police. They are also agile swimmers due to the feature inherited from their Newfoundland parents. The mix of German Shepherds and Newfoundlands produces more admirable personalities. While German Shepherds are alert and courageous, though prone to fearfulness, aggression, and neurotic spans if bred and socialized improperly, Newfoundlands are more loyal and selfless, courageous, calm, and patient. The mix most often displays the sweet and docile nature of Newfoundland. While being trained, New Sheps can be more stubborn and need more repetitions and consistency than their German Shepherd ancestor. This trait is also inherited from Newfoundlands and should be taken into account. It is longer than in purebred Newfoundlands but shorter than in German Shepherds. The reason is bigger because all large dog breeds tend to live shorter. The puppies are mostly born healthy, and this mix generally is not prone to severe health issues if it is bred responsibly and then well-cared and fed. The German Shepherd tends to get such minor issues as hot spots, allergies, perianal fistulas, and cataracts. The Newfoundland also tends to have cataracts as well as eye issues such as abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. So, all these conditions can be inherited by your mix-bred puppy from its parents. As for serious health problems, the German Shepherd can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bone inflammation, heart disease, fungal infections, and gastric torsion. You will need to have hip, elbow, and cardiac testing, DNA tests, and a complete physical examination for your puppy with your experienced vet to be sure about its health condition. Having the appropriate health test certificates from your reputable breeder is also great. Feeding and Care Since a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very large dog breed, it requires a special, high-quality diet meant for big dogs. You should give it 3 cups of kibble at least twice per day. You need to talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about weight loss or gain. Your doggy may need nutritious supplements or more exercise. You may also feed your hybrid puppy with a homemade raw diet, but it should be properly balanced and high-quality. Remember that human food is inappropriate for your dog, and human supplements do not suit it, either. As for taking care of the New Shep, it needs a lot of grooming. The immensely thick coats require brushing on a daily basis. The undercoat is very dense, so if left without care, it can form tangles and get matted. Brushing is especially important in springs and early autumns, when shedding is excessive. Do not bathe your dog too often. Bathing is necessary to remove heavy debris and dirt but not more often than once in two months. The special dog shampoo should be applied to avoid bad skin irritations. The ears can be either erect or folded, depending on the gene inherited either from a German Shepherd or Newfoundland parent. However, you need to clean them carefully in both cases, especially when the ears are floppy. You should also trim its nails and brush its teeth regularly. Ask for expert advice from your veterinarian if you are unsure how to do it correctly. So, if you live in a small apartment, this dog is not appropriate for you. You should at least walk with your doggy for about 60 minutes per day and play a lot with it. These dogs love being in the water, and that allows them to burn off their excess energy. So, swimming is an essential part of exercising. The doggy will enjoy hiking and biking with you, too. The dog also needs a lot of mental stimulation, including puzzle toys and enrichment games. The trainability of the German Shepherd and Newfoundland mix is amazing. These dogs are incredibly affectionate with their owners and always ready to follow all the commands. They are playful and patient, with strong guarding instincts, alert to threats but open to the presence of strangers. However, they can be pretty obstinate sometimes. So, you need reward-based and persistent training sessions for your doggy from a very early age. These dogs can become outstanding search and rescue helpers and are also great at obedience training and agility sessions. They are perfect at water sports and hauling sleds and small carts will be appropriate for them. They also can become exceptional therapy dogs due to their patience and affectionate attitudes toward people. It makes up a perfect family dog with strong guarding and protective skills. It is intelligent, patient, calm, and affectionate. The dog can be a remarkable companion, rescuer, and hauler. However, be careful to socialize and train it properly. If you have decided to adopt the New Shep, you will get the best friend and amazing companion if it is properly socialized. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. They should be fed about 3 cups several times throughout the day with a high-quality kibble. Because of their large size, they will not be as suitable for apartments, but they love being in the water , which will allow them to burn off some of their excess energy. The Newfoundland part of the New Shep makes them excellent at water sports, hauling such as sleds or small carts and they have the potential to become exceptional therapy dogs. The undercoat tends to be dense and will be prone to tangles and matting. Particular attention should be paid during the spring and the summer when they start shedding. Dog skin differs from human skin and using the wrong shampoo might create skin problems for the dog. The ears of the New Shep might be erect like the German Shepherd or folded over like the Newfoundland. The Newfoundland is also susceptible to cataracts but also abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. The vet will run allergy, skin and eye tests to screen your dog for any possible inherited health conditions from its parents. Your vet will run hip, elbow and cardiac tests as well as DNA tests and a full physical exam on your dog. Your New Shep is a hybrid, which means it might inherit some of these conditions from its parents, but it is less likely. Male vs. Female Female and male dogs tend to differ in size, with the female usually smaller and lighter. The male can be 25—28 inches and weigh — pounds and the female might be 23—26 inches and weigh 80— pounds. As previously mentioned, these dogs can actually weigh as much as pounds. Obviously, female and male dogs also differ biologically. If you decide to have your female dog spayed, the surgery is a little more challenging than neutering the male dog. This comes at a slightly higher expense and a longer recovery time for the dog. Some believe that there are personality differences between males and females. Generally speaking, males are thought of as being more aggressive than females. In contrast, the females are thought to be more affectionate. However, there are debates on this subject. The most important thing to consider in the male versus female dog debate is that the primary source of their personalities will come from how you train and socialize them when they are puppies. Final Thoughts When you combine the intelligence and the energy of the German Shepherd with the calm and affectionate Newfoundland, you might just end up with the perfect dog for your family. The New Shep is a beautiful, large dog that loves the water and will make an excellent watchdog but without the aggression. New Shep puppies are not easy to find so you might want to begin by speaking to breeders of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. Attending dog shows and talking to rescue societies as well as local and national dog clubs could also prove helpful. Last of all, posting messages on social media will help you spread the world to a much bigger audience. The New Shep requires a fairly vigorous brushing routine, but otherwise, you will end up with a loyal and loving gentle giant that will become a beloved member of your family. See Also:. The Newfoundland dog is loving, gentle, and are also famous for their loyalty and strength. Whereas, the German Shephard is recognized for its protective nature and courage despite being loyal. Now let us see, what are the traits of the mixed breed of these two dogs, the Newfoundland German shepherd mix. Newfoundland German shepherd mix physical appearance: The Newfoundland German Shepherd cross is a giant, sturdy and athletic dog with a strong and heavy bone structure. Both the parent dogs have strong and straight backs usually, whereas in some cases, the back of German Shephard is slightly sloped whereas that of Newfoundland is leveled. The chest of Newfoundland is deep while the skull is broad. Looking at the muzzle, it is more tapered and long in the case of a German Shepherd. Both the breeds have commonly pointed ears and brown eyes. The nose of the New Shep Breed dog is either brown or black. In short, the Newfoundland dog German Shepherd Mix can have traits of any of its parents. Lastly, the average lifespan of the dog is 10 years. Newfoundland German shepherd cross temperament and personality: Mostly, the New Shep hybrids are a combination of the personality of the parent breeds so, both of them are good-mannered as well as confident. If not trained properly, they can develop aggressive and anxious temperament so, train them patiently. They are playful and happy among children, but their immense size can harm them so, keep the younger ones away. They are fun, calm, and easy with the family members as well. Although the dog is intelligent, you will surely have to put some effort to train this dog. Newfoundland German shepherd mix for sale: There are two options for having a purebred New Shep Breed dog, one you can buy it from a reputable breeder, and the second adopt it from a shelter, former owner, or rescue. But it is not always the truth so, be sure about the health and lineage of your dog before purchasing it from a breeder making false claims. The only difference between these two methods is that adoption will cost you very little as compared to purchasing it. Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy coat: The Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy has a slightly dense coat that is wavy in texture and medium in length. The coat of this dog breed is more likely to catch dust, debris, and other particles. Also, their hair gets tangles frequently and heavy shedding is common in New Shep breed dogs. So, purchase a de-shedder, comb, brush, and de-matter for maintaining the coat of the dog. There are many possibilities of the coat color including sable, black, white, blue, brown, grey, cream, red, and silver. Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix training: If you have a good experience with dogs, then start training them with patience after purchasing it. As the Newfoundland and German Shepherd Mix dog is intelligent, so they pick up things easily. Be aware of the little obstinate nature of the dog and handle it with patience rather than behaving harshly or aggressively. If you are unable to control and train the dog, then take it or group training sessions. Also, hiring a personal trainer will help you a lot in this regard but then get ready to pay a little more training price than usual. Newfoundland and German shepherd mix grooming: As discussed, the coat of the Newfoundland German shepherd mix dog is dense and tangles easily so, daily brushing is necessary to maintain the look of the dog. Usually, the coat sheds in the summer and spring season, so maintaining the coat in these seasons is a challenge. Excessive or cheap shampoo can damage the skin of your dog resulting in skin irritation so, only give it a bath when there is a dire need to remove the dirt. Keep on clipping the nails once a month and visit a professional groomer 3 to 6 times a year. Make sure you are providing a hygienic and quality diet to your dog. Usually, a New shep dog eats 3 cups of kibble every day. Well, if you observe any disturbance in the health of the dog, immediately consult your vet. New shep breed health concerns: Just like every other dog breed, purebred or mix, the New shep dog also has some common health concerns. Some of the minor concerns include bloating, gastric dilation volvulus, subaortic stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, perianal fistulas, and hip or elbow dysplasia. Whereas if we talk about some serious health conditions that can be fatal for the new shep breed dog, then these include pyoderma, mitral valve dysplasia, urolithiasis, pannus, cherry eye, cataracts, exocrine pancreatic, footpad disorder, insufficiency, progressive renal atrophy, persistent right aortic arch and many more. To prevent these conditions, keep a healthy track of the diet and physical activity of your dog. Male and female Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppies for sale: The height of a male Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix is 25 to 28 inches whereas that of a female dog is 23 to 26 inches. The weight of a female New Shep dog is 75 to 95 lbs while a male dog weighs 95 to lbs. The temperament of the dog depends on socialization and training rather than gender. Also, spaying of the female New shep dog is a bit complicated than neutering the male dog as spaying requires a little more time to recover. They will require plenty of space and humans that are strong enough to handle their size and weight. The color will depend on which parent it takes after. Most crosses that take after the GSD will don the famous tan coat with a black saddle. Other common coat colors include solid black and sable , while rarer GSD colors include liver , blue , and white. Similarly, crosses that inherit their coat from the Newfie parent are likely to be solid black, brown, or gray. Grooming Because the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix tends to have very dense undercoats, keeping them properly groomed involves a thorough brushing several times a week. This may become a daily requirement twice a year when they blow their coats and shed very heavily. Baths, however, can be done as infrequently as every 6 to 8 weeks. As with any other dog, regular toothbrushing is an essential part of keeping the Newfie-GSD mix properly groomed. Maintaining proper oral hygiene will keep odors at a minimum and will contribute greatly to good health and longevity. Strength Both German Shepherds and Newfoundlands are strong dogs, so their offspring will definitely be strong as well. Just seeing their size and musculature gives you a good idea of the strength of these dogs. This is a critical part of what makes them excellent working dogs. Speed Despite their size, Newfoundland-German Shepherd crosses are surprisingly nimble on their paws. Additionally, mutts that take after the Newfie parent are especially agile swimmers. They need lots of exercise to keep them on their best behavior. At a minimum, these dogs would need 30 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per day — however many of these mixes will need more especially in their younger years. Among the activities they are likely to enjoy are hiking and swimming. Because of their heritage as working dogs, Newfoundland-German Shepherd mixes also require lots of mental stimulation. Enrichment games, puzzle toys , and regular training sessions will keep them sharp and happy. Trainability Among the best traits of the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is that they are incredibly sweet and affectionate with their family. They are also playful and patient with young children as well as tolerant of other animals in the household. Despite their seemingly docile temperament, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix has strong guarding instincts. They are alert to threats and are capable of engaging if needed. However, they are more open to the presence of strangers than purebred GSDs. Health Newfie-GSDs are generally healthy dogs. However, their sheer size and weight make them more prone to bone and joint issues like elbow and hip dysplasia. Ideally, both parents would be screened for such conditions before being allowed to mate. Make sure to clean them regularly and keep them dry. Lifespan Newfie-GSDs are expected to live between 9 and 14 years old. Nevertheless, Newfoundland-GSD crosses often surpass this average lifespan when they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life. A high-quality, balanced diet is also essential to longevity. The AKC Canine Partners Program enables mixed breeds to register with the club and participate in various sports and canine events. This includes the eligibility to compete for titles in such activities as Agility , Diving Dogs , and Flyball. As far as crossbreeds go, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix is not very popular. That may have to do with the fact that each of these two breeds is more valuable as purebreds. However, it requires a dedicated handler willing to take on the responsibilities of such a large and active dog. Nevertheless, they can be an excellent dog to have, whether as a working companion or as a family pet. German Shepherd mixes come in many different forms and have many unique characteristics. January 14, Fancy a dog with the smarts of the impressive German Shepherd and the sweetness of the gentle Newfoundland? What about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? Why not learn a little more about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? If you are a fan of big dogs, with big hearts then a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix might just be the dog for you! Origins of the Newfoundland Newfoundland dogs have long been relied on by Canadian fishermen to help on fishing boats. They would bring in the nets of fish and pull them to the markets on carts. Their strength and natural swimming ability also earned them a reputation as lifeguards. They are skilled at saving people in trouble in the water. The first German Shepherd showed up in America in and by , the first German Shepherd club has been established. At this point, it is worth addressing the controversy which surrounds the purebreds versus mutts. The Mixed Breed Controversy Advocates of purebred dogs claim the size, temperament, and health of a purebred can be reliably predicted. Moreover, their lineage can be traced back for many generations. They also assert that supporting purebred dog breeders encourages the betterment of breeds. This is mainly because breeders will ensure the characteristics and abilities inherent in purebreds can be improved upon and preserved for generations to come. On the other hand, advocates of mixed breeds voice concern that inbreeding and exaggeration of certain physical characteristics in purebreds often result in dogs with serious health problems. They point out that breed standards, which dictate the desirable physical attributes of purebred dogs, can at times have more to do with aesthetics than the welfare of the dog. This has led to dogs with breathing difficulties, back and joint problems, and even difficulty giving birth. Many believe hybrid dogs are healthier since they are purportedly less predisposed to inherited conditions than purebreds. Indeed, one study has suggested that dogs with genetically diverse backgrounds are healthier and appear to live longer than their purebred counterparts. Here are some that stand out: The actions of one Newfoundland may have had a hand in how history played out. In a Newfoundland reportedly saved the life of none other than Napoleon Bonaparte when he went overboard while fleeing the island of Elba. Rin Tin Tin starred in 27 films throughout his life. In the end, the Academy decided the award must be given to a human. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Appearance The Newfoundland stands between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulders and weighs between and lbs. They are sturdy and strong in build and appearance. Their thick double coat is water resistant and comes in black, brown, grey, and black and white. White patches are the only markings seen in this breed. The German Shepherd stands 22 to 26 inches at the shoulders and can weigh from 50 to 90 lbs. While strong and muscular in build, the German Shepherd also has great agility. They have a thick, wiry outer coat which comes in variations of black, tan, solid black and sable. This coat needs regular grooming. Both dogs are large, so a mix of the two is going to be a large dog. The coloring could be any combination of the parent breeds markings. Owning a dog of this size may bring with it challenges in terms of caring and housing for your dog. But the Newfoundland wins big points for being so agreeable. Temperament-wise, the German Shepherd is quite different from the Newfoundland. Its definitive qualities are loyalty, intelligence, and courage. Perhaps the greatest evidence of this is their status as the preferred breed for law enforcement and military organizations. In the family setting, a German Shepherd will make a loyal protector. As such, they tend to remain a little reserved when introduced to strangers. The sight of a German Shepherd may incite fear amongst many, and they have a reputation for being good watchdogs. A study published in found that German Shepherds did score higher than other breeds when it came to dog on dog aggression as well as aggression toward strangers. In terms of aggression towards owners, however, you have more to fear if you live with a Dachshund than a German Shepherd. A mix of these breeds could produce a dog that takes after one breed more than the other. However, the sweet nature of the Newfoundland could balance out the more serious and protective tendencies of the German Shepherd. Both these dogs are large and powerful. The German Shepherd is by nature a little wary of strangers and protective of their human family. Socialization, which involves exposing your puppy to as many new situations and experiences as possible, is an absolute must if you decide to adopt a mix of these two dogs. German Shepherds are active, intelligent dogs. It is important that you keep them busy and engaged mentally. Both of these dogs enjoy regular exercise. Both breeds enjoy canine sports such as agility, dock jumping, and herding. Crossing with a Newfoundland might reduce such problems. Ultimately, checking that their parents did not suffer from these issues before choosing your puppy is the wisest course of action. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Health Both these breeds are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia. The German Shepherd Club of America does not require any further health tests. However, as we mentioned, German Shepherds are prone to conformational problems. The Newfoundland is susceptible to heart problems and cystinuria, a condition in which stones form in the urinary system. Both dogs can be expected to live up to 10 years. If your puppy has taken after their Newfoundland parent and has floppy ears, check them regularly for infection. As with any breed, feed your dog a well-balanced, high-quality diet to keep them healthy. Being big dogs, make sure you have the budget for this. Both dog breeds have thick coats, so they will have to be brushed regularly even when they are not shedding. In shedding season, these bushings may need to be daily. The combination of these two breeds can make great a family dog. Taking into consideration the size, power, and temperament of the parent breeds, however, socialization and appropriate training is an absolute must. Ideally, your family should have enough time and space to devote to training and exercising this mixed breed. Rescuing a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix If you are looking to rescue one of these dogs, check local rescue groups dedicated to the parent breeds. Sometimes these groups will help find homes for crosses as well as purebreds. Otherwise, check at your local shelter. Get as much information as you can about the background of the dog, as they might have some special requirements if they have been abused or neglected in the past. How to Find a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix puppy The growing popularity of mixes can be good news for the general health of dogs. However, some unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of the demand, and view the production of puppies as nothing more than a way to make a profit. While it may seem to be the easiest option, getting your new puppy from a pet shop is not recommended. Sadly, these puppies have more often than not been bred in puppy farms. Dogs kept in puppy farms are housed in appalling conditions and often suffer untreated injuries and health problems. Not only are they often neglected physically, but mentally these dogs are deprived of the chance to socialize and play. First and foremost, make sure you can meet the parents of your dog, and see where they have been raised in person. Care needs to be taken with training and socialization due to the size of both breeds, and the protective traits of the German Shepherd. This dog will have a thick coat which will shed. Pros The Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix will be loyal to their family and eager to please loved ones. This mix is great for those who like swimming and the outdoors. The kind nature of the Newfoundland mixed with the intelligence of the German Shepherd is an appealing combination. Similar Mixed Breeds and Purebred Dogs. No one knows for sure who first came up with the idea to breed a German Shepherd with a Newfoundland or exactly why. Experimentation with the breeding probably occurred a few times before anyone came up with a clear-cut reason or thought it was a good idea. We know the German Shepherd originated in Germany from generic herding dogs. A show dog named Hektor became the foundation type for the breed, further developed by Max von Stephanitz beginning in the late s. According to German Shepherd Rescue Elite , Stephanitz was a former student of Berlin Veterinary College and highly interested in how conformation correlated with working proficiency. Most experts agree that Newfoundland originated from native dogs of the Newfoundland coast and Labrador, in Canada, but are uncertain if the black wolf, Great Pyrenees, or others had the greatest influence. DNA confirms the fact that St. A well-established Newfie type was apparent by , represented by massive black dogs that had huge heads. George Cartwright officially named the Newfoundland in , and the English further modernized the breed beginning in the s. What is a designer dog? Undoubtedly clear to most, not every mixed dog is a designer dog. The marketing of specific breed combinations enables owners of these hybrids to ironically attain an elevated social status among their peers. In historical times, starting with the Victorian era in the s , many societies linked superiority with smaller genetic pools. Owning a purebred dog was equivalent to privilege. Until the advent of what would become the designer dog craze, purebred dogs remained at the pinnacle of desirability and personal worth in many societies. The appeal of certain purebred dogs, like French Bulldogs and Pugs, will probably never wane, but designer dogs have given owners another avenue to climb the social ladder. Generally, the name of the hybrid will be a blend of the two separate breed names. The Labradoodle was the first such designer dog, matching a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle in , and the New Shep arrived much later. The New Shep remains much less common than some of the other designer dogs. Many early designer dogs originated intending to introduce the hypoallergenic low-shedding hair of the Poodle to breeds with desirable charms like an easy-going steadfast temperament, unusual charisma, or unique coat color. Later, dog lovers sought to improve the health issues of breeds they loved such as the English Bulldog. Purely speculative, the New Shep may have come about to smooth some aggressive and neurotic tendencies of the Shepherd and increase the lifespan and add novelty colors and trainability to the Newfie. What makes the New Shep unpredictable? New Shep puppies have a greater number of standard characteristics in common with each other than alternative German Shepherd crosses because there are more of them. We can judge probability based on how the majority of current litters turn out. That being said, first-generation genetics is still largely a roll of the dice. Many features, like personality and temperament, are more unpredictable than coat length and size. Individuals inherit some qualities as a straightforward recessive or dominant single gene. Other genes, like those for coat color, are multiple and incompletely dominant. Separate breed standards tell the tale of the Newfie Shepherd Mix. Most people know what a purebred German Shepherd or Newfoundland looks like. The German Shepherd, with her elegant good looks, has a dome-shaped forehead with a narrow, somewhat square muzzle, a long back sloping down from the shoulders to the hips , brown slightly-slanted eyes, large open upright ears, and a thick tail. Classic colors are tan or red with a black saddle and black mask. German Shepherds can also be silver and black, sable, or solid colors like red, blue , black , or white. Where Shepherds are solidly-built and athletic, Newfoundlands are stately and powerful. One of their most remarkable features is their partially webbed feet, which contribute to their legendary swimming ability. Newfoundlands can sport the colors solid black, brown, white and black, known as Landseer, and, less commonly, gray. New Sheps range from 23 to 28 inches tall and average to pounds. The range, however, can be from to over pounds. New Shep dogs sport an array of colors such as black and tan, solid black, gray, silver, blue, or red, black and white, or sable. What is hybrid vigor? Hybrid vigor, despite numerous misconceptions, does not necessarily imply increased health and vitality. It refers, however, to improved biological functions which usually influence size and fertility. According to the Centre for Small Animal Studies in Suffolk , hybrids tend to have a higher lifespan than purebred dogs except for certain toy breeds. Moreover, any comparison between dogs illustrates a smaller size generally means a longer life. Not all crossbreeding results in hybrid vigor. New Sheps are frequently larger than their parents. It is not uncommon to see Shepherd Newfoundland mixes that are pounds. Giant size likely accounts for a shortened longevity. What kind of personality can you expect? German Shepherds are also courageous, loyal, affectionate with their families , and protective. Poor breeding allows fearfulness, aggression , or neurotic tendencies to enter specific German Shepherd lines. The breed standard for the Newfoundland calls for a sweet disposition to define her, more important than any other character trait. An irresponsibly bred Newfie can be fearful or aggressive. A German Shepherd Newfie cross should shine as a family companion with a loyal, sweet, and affectionate nature. Most puppies exhibit the calm and docile natures of the Newfoundland. New Sheps tend to get along with children and other dogs, especially with effective socialization by you the owner. Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrids may inherit some dog aggression from the GSD and same-sex aggression from the Newfie. Again, frequent exposure to other dogs as a puppy will help prevent inter-dog aggression from cropping up later in life. Does New Sheps have high intelligence and trainability? According to Dogbreedslist. The ranking includes purebred dogs. Both breeds are amenable to consistent and early training. The German Shepherd excels at learning quickly and obediently. She is considered one of the most trainable dogs. Newfoundlands demonstrate an uncanny instinct for the prevention of drowning and knowing how to save people from hazardous situations on land. However, they tend to be independent and need repetition to pick up simple commands. How much exercise does a New Shep need? Hybrids inherit the more laid-back demeanor of the Newfie, not nearly as exuberant as the Shepherd. They require moderate to low exercise. The winter cold is not likely to be a concern for your New Shep. Newfoundland and Shepherd mixes are also sure to enjoy swimming. Some training and walking services suggest 14 miles per week and an hour every day of exercise for your New Shep, although your dog will probably thrive on half that. Grooming requirements depend on coat thickness Both the Newfoundland and German Shepherd have thick undercoats. They have two large molts a year, dropping copious tufts of hair during these times. The Newfoundland requires daily brushing to prevent matting of his fleecy down. The rare Shepherd has long hair without an undercoat. Both dogs should get a consistent bath to eliminate odors and resistant dirt. German Shepherds are not particularly averse to water, but most Newfoundlands love it. New Sheps can possess a variety of coat types. Most of them will have a medium to long moderately thick wavy outer coat with dense underfur. Some have short hair and others have thinner hair than usual for either breed. A few dogs have straight hair while others appear to have loose curls in areas. Brushing is crucial for the same reasons as with the parent breeds. Will your New Shep be a good watchdog? While the German Shepherd is renowned for guard abilities, the Newfoundland has always had a more utilitarian heritage. Since biting and aggression is so contrary to rescuing people from the water, the Newfie has minimal guarding tendencies. You are pretty lucky if your Newfie barks to announce a stranger. You can expect a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix to be friendly and even affectionate to guests. They likely will make better watchdogs than Newfies, barking if sensing a disturbance. Certain families of dogs, as mentioned above, can produce New Sheps with the same undesirable characteristics of the responsible parent, such as fear-biting, uncharacteristic aggression, and shyness. Unfortunately, ailments plague all purebred dogs. While trying to improve a breed through hybridization is a noble endeavor, the reality often falls short. Improvement in the puppies is only possible when exercising a strict selection process with the parents. Some breeders do not adhere to strict breeding criteria, whether involved with purebreds or designer dogs. Moreover, potential owners may not know what kinds of problems their new dog may be susceptible to or what tests may pertain to particular breeds. Still, another factor is dogs inherit some disorders like hip dysplasia, across multiple genes While a few of the sources we ran across cited Shepherd Newfie hybrids as having no health issues, this is probably not entirely accurate. Because of their parentage, we must theorize that New Sheps are vulnerable to the following health issues, discussed by Science Direct and PetMD. According to the Veterinary DNA Center , Newfoundlands can exhibit cystinuria at the exceptionally young age of six months. What fun activities can you do with your New Shep? German Shepherds may excel at agility trials and obedience challenges, like Shutzhund, but Newfoundlands are better suited for hauling competitions and water sports. Both can make excellent therapy dogs and search and rescue workers. Some New Sheps may be more athletic than Newfies. Depending on their size, a hybrid will probably show the greatest promise in activities similar to what a Newfoundland does best. With a German Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrid, you are likely to get what looks like a giant black or black and tan Shepherd. His ears may be erect or semi-prick. Your New Shep will have intelligence and trainability approaching the Shepherd with a slightly stubborn or willful streak. She will greet strangers and friends alike with friendly enthusiasm but in a contained manner. She may bark at intruders but will likely blend in happily with children and other animals in your household. Your Newfie Shepherd cross may take to the water like a sea lion and may even have webbed feet. The only drawbacks are a medium tendency to drool, heat sensitivity, her tremendous size, and her thick coat. This German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is pretty close to one of the varieties you could see in a typical litter. The puppy is not yet sporting his adult coat but looks like he will end up red fawn or sable with a black mask. You can also gauge youth by how much higher his hindquarters are than his shoulders, an indication of a growth spurt. The combination of these two breeds results in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. This sturdy breed is known for its loyalty, protectiveness and obedience. They are also intelligent, eager to learn and make great family pets. Newfoundland and German Shepherd — Breeding History The Newfoundland is a large working dog breed originating from the island of Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada. They were originally bred for helping fishermen with tasks such as hauling in nets and catching fish that had escaped from the nets. They are also known for their water rescue abilities and were used extensively during the 19th century by lifeboat crews. The German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They were originally bred for herding and guarding sheep. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world and are highly prized for their loyalty and working ability. They were first used as police dogs back in in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. They are well known over the years as highly effective police and military dogs due to their loyalty, obedience, and intelligence. The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a relatively new crossbreed that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Known as adaptable designer dogs, the mix of these two breeds result in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. The most common reason people mix these two breeds is to take advantage of the best traits of each. Their characteristics will vary depending on which parent breed they take after more, but they will typically have the long head and muzzle of a German Shepherd combined with the thick coat and webbed feet of a Newfoundland. They are typically strong and muscular with a large, square head and medium to long coat. The typical size of a Newfoundland is inches cm at the shoulder, weighing between pounds kg. The typical size of a German Shepherd is inches cm at the shoulder, and they weigh between pounds kg. A mix of both breeds will typically fall somewhere in the middle, with males generally being larger than females. Coat Type The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will have a thick, double coat that is water-resistant and sheds moderately. Their fluffy coats can be either short or long, but is typically medium in length. They will have the thick undercoat of a Newfoundland combined with the longer outer coat of a German Shepherd. Colors New Sheps can come in a wide variety of colors, depending on their parentage. Their coat color can be either black, brown, gray, red, or white. They may also have markings of a different color on their face, chest, or paws. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. New Sheps are active dogs that need plenty of exercise and stimulation. They are also guard dogs by nature and will bark to warn you of strangers or any potential danger. While they make fantastic family dogs, New Sheps are not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and need for training and socialization. Protectiveness New Sheps display extreme protectiveness of their owners and are very loyal. This behavior is instinctive and cannot be trained out of them. It is important to socialize New Sheps early on so that they can learn to distinguish between actual threats and harmless strangers. Without early socialization, they may become overly suspicious of anyone who is not their owner and become aggressive toward them. New Sheps are also very protective of their families and will do anything to keep them safe. They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to warn their family of any potential danger. They are also very loving and affectionate toward their families and will do anything to make them happy. Strength The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very strong and large dog. They are one of the strongest dog breeds, and their size can be intimidating to some people. They are also very muscular, and their coats are thick and dense, which helps protect them from the elements. Speed The speed of a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is about 27 miles per hour mph , but can reach up to 35 mph when running. They are working dogs and were bred for their herding and guarding abilities, so they have a lot of energy. If you have an active lifestyle and are looking for a canine companion to join you on hikes, runs, or swims, this mix may be a good fit. Newfs are known for being relatively lazy, while German Shepherds are much more active. A good rule of thumb is that this mix should get at least an hour of daily exercise. This can be a combination of walks, runs, hikes, and playtime. If your dog is particularly energetic, they may need even more exercise than that. This could include water sports, agility sessions, or other intense activities. Having plenty of space for exercise will naturally be of huge benefit for you and your dog. This mix would be a great companion for you if you live an active lifestyle. They can keep up with most activities and will be happy to do so. Just make sure to give them plenty of breaks, as they can overheat easily. Along with physical exercise, they also need mental stimulation and regular brain exercise. They will likely become bored and destructive if they have excess energy and their activity level is not catered for. Make sure you are prepared to give them the exercise they need before bringing one home. Some may need more obedience training than others, while some may require more socialization. Always consult with a professional trainer to determine what training methods would be best for your specific dog. Typically, the first type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need is obedience training. This type of training will teach the dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. It is important to start obedience training early on, as it will set the foundation for all other types of training. The second type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may need is socialization training. This training is important to help the dog develop a gentle nature and become comfortable around people and other animals. Socialization training can be started at any age, but it is typically best to start early on. They are going to be very trainable and will likely excel in obedience trials and other activities. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also likely to have above average intelligence when compared to other dog breeds. This means that they are likely to learn new tricks and commands quickly. They may also be quick to understand the intentions of their owners and be able to follow complex commands. So, if you are looking for a dog that is intelligent and easily trainable, then a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may be the perfect breed for you! Good with Other Dogs The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a good dog for people who have other dogs in their family. They are gentle and good-natured and get along well with other dogs. Due to their size, they need to be properly socialized with other dogs when they are puppies so that they know how to interact with them and not be afraid of them. They do have natural protective instincts, so they may be leery of strange dogs, but with proper socialization, they can learn to get along with just about any dog. They make great family dogs and love being around people, which is why they do well in homes where there are other dogs present. Good with Children The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a great breed of dog if you are looking for one that is good with children. This mix is known to be gentle, loving, and protective of those they love, which makes them perfect for families with young kids. They are also known for having an affectionate nature. They will quickly become a loyal and trusted friend to your children, and will always be there to lend a furry shoulder to cry on and for constant companionship. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also great dogs for first-time dog owners, as they are relatively easy to train and care for. For example, a growing puppy will need more calories than an adult dog, and a working dog will need more calories than a couch potato. In general, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need a diet that is high in protein and fat, and moderate in carbohydrates. When it comes to choosing a commercial dog food, look for one that is specifically designed for large breeds. Avoid any food that contains fillers or by-products, and make sure the first ingredient is a meat protein. Grooming When it comes to grooming ,the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a low-maintenance dog. A weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy and clean. Ears should be checked regularly and cleaned when necessary to prevent infection. Teeth should be brushed on a regular basis as well. Newfs are known for being heavy shedders, so expect some extra vacuuming during shedding season. Shedding The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will be a moderate to heavy shedder. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are double-coated, so they will also require regular grooming to help reduce matting and tangles in their fur. Drooling The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is known to be a very sloppy dog in relation to drooling. This can be quite a nuisance for owners, as it can result in wet floors and furniture. Adaptability to Weather In terms of adapting to weather extremes, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile dog. They can withstand very cold and very hot weather conditions better than most other breeds. They have a thick, double coat of fur that helps protect them against the cold weather and their long legs help them keep their balance in the snow. In terms of the hot weather, they do not have as much fur so they do not get as hot as other breeds. They also have a lot of energy and can run around in the heat without getting tired. Just be sure to provide plenty of shade and fresh water during extremely hot temperatures. Overall, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to any type of weather condition. They are, however, susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, which is common in large breeds.

As their name suggests, this mix is made up of a German Shepherd and a Wolf, these hybrids crossbreeds are often called Wolfdogs or Wolf-Shepherds. Whilst there are many types of German Shepherd Wolf mixes, the Saarloos Wolfhund is the most notable. They were created by Leendert Saarloos back in when he crossbred a German Shepherd with a Eurasian wolf. The aim of this cross-breeding was to bring back the natural traits the GSD had lost when domesticated. You should also keep in mind that they are illegal in several areas across the US, so do your research before keeping one. The German Shepherd already resembles a wolf, so this hybrid does not look hugely different. Due to the genetic diversity, there is no way to tell what a specific pup will look like when they mature. However, there could be a pup that will look more like their German Shepherd parent, rather than their Wolf parent, and vice-versa. Wolfdogs tend to have smaller skulls than the common wolf, they have pointed ears and brown almond-shaped eyes. Height and Weight A German Shepherd can weigh around lb male and lb female. Males stand at around inches and females between inches. So depending on age, sex, diet, and genetics, the German Shepherd Wolf mix can weigh anywhere from lbs. Colors Pups can be found in a number of colors as the classic German Shepherd has 11 different official colors, with the most common being black and tan. But they can also have colors such as sable, black, white, and gray. Wolves can be mottled gray in color, but occasionally can be nearly pure white, red, brown, or even black. Coat German Shepherds have a thick double coat that is medium length. They have a dense outer coat with straight hair that lies close to the body. They have short undercoats and long, coarse outer coats. The GSD and Wolves have very similar coats, so it is fairly likely that their mix will have a double coat and medium-length fur. They will also shed annually, getting rid of their winter coat when the days become warmer. It is safe to say that this crossbreed should not be kept in warmer climates. German Shepherd Wolf Mix Personality and Temperament Both German Shepherds and Wolves have very different personalities, so it can be difficult to predict what their mix will be like. But we will do our best below to explain some behaviors which should be expected. Wolves are pack animals, meaning they are very protective and loyal to their family — they will do anything to protect their kin. They are den-dwelling animals, meaning that your mix is likely to dig anywhere they want. Being wild animals, Wolves are reserved when it comes to unfamiliar surroundings, people, and inanimate objects. They may be very protective but will cower at the sight of strangers. It should be said that the German Shepherd Wolf will be unpredictable in social situations, they can become aggressive when fearful. This can be avoided by giving them lots of socialization as a young pup. They are also very curious and will try to escape whenever opportunity strikes, so make sure to keep your backyard securely fenced. This hybrid will have a strong prey drive, as the GSD was bred to herd livestock and the wolf is a natural predator, so your Wolfdog mix will chase anything and everything that moves. They are also prone to howling as this is how they communicate in a pack. This is not a dog that should be living with small children. This dog should be kept by experienced keepers who are firm and disciplined with their pooch. If they favor their German Shepherd parentage, they will be eager to please dog training will be easy. Either way, you should be training them with positive reinforcement. Give them rewards when they follow your command or when they stop unwanted behavior. Many people believe that dominance training is the way forward with this dog as wolves are pack animals, but studies show that this training method leads to further aggression and reduces the quality of your relationship with your doggy friend. This is a dog for someone who has experience training strong-willed dogs before — you need to be firm and consistent. Do not let them think they are the boss of you. Socializing a dog like this is very important as the wolf can be reserved and unpredictable. Make sure to socialize them with a range of people and different situations. Mental stimulation is very important if you do not want your Wolfdog to get bored and chew everything in sight. You can give them lots of toys and play with them, playtime can decrease their stress levels and make them more confident. Caring for a German Shepherd Wolf Mix Owning a German Shepherd Wolf mix is not something you should take lightly, there are specific laws on owning Wolfdogs, so you should check your state regulations. This cross breed needs an owner who is experienced in training difficult dogs that need lots of attention and care. You will also need a large backyard which has very secure fencing. You should not own a Wolfdog in heavily populated areas, as they have a habit of howling a lot. There are many other responsibilities that you will have when owning this hybrid so keep reading to learn more… Exercise Requirements This is a very energetic dog, as wolves can travel up to 30 miles a day. They will need around hours of exercise each day to keep fit and healthy. Not getting their exercise will result in them destroying your furniture and anything else they can bite. It is also recommended to let them roam around in a fenced backyard, so they can play, dig and explore. You should not take your Wolfdog to dog parks and make sure to keep them on a leash and harness. They will need regular brushing to avoid matting and tangles, and more when shedding season comes along. Do not bathe this dog too much as it can strip away the natural oils that make the coat healthy and shiny. As with every dog, dental hygiene is important so brush their teeth once a week. You should also cut their nails, to avoid overgrowth and splitting. Feeding and Diet Deciding what to feed your Wolfdog is not an exact science, but you should be feeding your dog a diet rich in protein. Avoid buying traditional store-bought dog food as these are rich in carbohydrates and artificial ingredients. You will need to do research into what type of meat-based diets you would prefer your dog to eat. Be mindful of how much you are feeding your dog, too much food can lead to obesity. Keep an eye on their weight by using a body condition score. Known Health Problems Wolfdogs are generally healthy animals, but they are still prone to certain health issues. Having pet insurance could save you from the headache of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! The German Shepherd resembles a wolf in appearance, to begin with, so you can count on the hybrid to be large, with a long face, thick coat and pointed ears. The coat of the Wolfshepherd can be gray, sable, white, black, or a mixture of these colors. It will most likely inherit the thick fur that is standard for both parents and is known to shed heavily. You can take a closer look at this Wolfdog mix in the video. Is a Wolf Shepherd dangerous? If a Wolfdog is uncomfortable, it can attack out of defense. This has earned them a reputation for being dangerous and they are banned in several US states. Wolves build dens and roam frequently. They also have a strong pack and predatory instincts. These traits translate into destructive behavior for the Wolfdog, such as digging holes in the garden and chewing up wooden furniture. They also may urinate more frequently than other dog breeds to mark their territory. It takes one who is passionate and willing to devote time and energy to a German Shepherd Wolf dog. Because of its unpredictable nature, it is advised that this crossbreed should not be left alone around other pets and especially children. Black German Shepherd Wolf mixes in particular, are known for being less tolerant towards children. They have been known to react by biting and shaking. This is a natural response of the Black GSD when correcting puppy behavior. With rigorous training, a Wolfdog makes a protective and loyal companion. They are strong, intelligent, playful, and affectionate towards family. Are Wolf German Shepherd Mix health issues common? As we mentioned above the life expectancy of a German Shepherd Wolf Mix is up to 14 or even .However, the German Shepherd breed is vulnerable to serious genetic diseases that can get passed down to this particular Wolfdog hybrid. Hip Dysplasia : A painful hip joint deformity that causes loss of mobility and lameness. Elbow Dysplasia: A joint deformity that affects the elbows and can cause pain and loss of mobility. Bloat: A build-up of gas in the stomach that can cause it to twist and lead to shock or even death. Cancer: Abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body. Feeding time Since the Wolfshepherd is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia , it is important to keep her on a strict feeding regime to avoid obesity. Aim for 2 to 3 cups of meat-based dog food divided between meals each day. Remember that every dog has different health needs. Exercise time The German Shepherd Wolf hybrid needs daily activity to thwart destructive behavior and keep physically fit. A house with a large fenced-in yard is the most suitable environment for this crossbreed. They need room to stretch their legs and roam. If you live in an apartment, you might want to consider a smaller dog breed or perhaps a dog that resembles a wolf. Not only is an apartment too small a space, but this mix prefers to spend time outdoors, like its Wolf parent. Playing fetch with a ball or tugging games can help get that chewing habit under control. Can you train a Wolf Shepherd? This is the only way to lessen the inclination towards aloofness, fear, and an unpredictable temperament. Training needs to start at the puppy stage to be effective. Be prepared, because Wolfdogs are not easy to train and require time, patience, and consistency. Dominance is one of the main German Shepherd Wolf mix characteristics that you will have to focus on. As the owner, you must be confident and assert that you are the leader of the pack. If attention wanes during a game or your Wolfdog decides to ignore commands, stay positive yet firm and above all — do not let them dominate you. Socialization is key to helping a Wolfdog accept other pets in the household. Walks around the park can help, but always keep your pup on a leash. Supervise them when other dogs are present. When searching for reputable German Shepherd Wolf mix breeders, look for someone that is open to you visiting and will provide health clearances. They should be able to answer questions about the parents, especially regarding medical history. This results in a high number of them being left at rescue shelters. Here are 3 Wolfdog rescues where you can look for a German Shepherd Wolf mix along with other Wolfdogs. They first appeared over a century ago, making them one of the oldest designer or hybrid dogs. A designer breed is any dog that is crossed between two purebred dogs to create a new hybrid. The designer dog breed industry has gained momentum in the previous thirty years. Designer breeds are now outselling many pure breed dogs around the world. With their gorgeous appearance and exotic nature, the hybrid has become a hot commodity, with more and more people thinking about getting one. The German Shepherd Wolf hybrid can be a complicated dog to own. He could even pose a fair amount of risks that you should be well-aware of before having one. They are not recommended for a first-time dog owner either, because they can be more like owning a wild animal. They are as gorgeous as they are intimidating with their graceful but curious gait. This is a formidable dog, in every way. They hover around lbs, though there can be big discrepancies due to the blending of their parent's divorced genetics. Their coats are usually a mixture of fawn, brown, white, and shades of grey. They can come in other colors though. They can also vary a great deal in size, depending on which parent they take more from, genetically speaking. The erect ears are very furry, always alert, and able to turn in any direction to hone in on a sound as far as five miles away. Both owning their origins to the same man, Max von Stephanitz. In , Von Stephanitz was on the lookout for a dog that he could call the perfect working dog. Soon he stumbled on a dog called Hektor Linksrhein, who he was completely in love with remarking that it was perfectly strong, intelligent, loyal, and beautiful. The German Shepherd of today has changed a great deal, sadly. The straight line of the back and square back legs has been bred out of them in favor of a more slanted body posture. This has caused some problems with the breed and their hips. Sadly, many German Shepherds bred outside of Germany are going to have genetic hip problems. You should have your young German Shepherd screened as soon as possible. This is also a dog that should not be bred, unfortunately it is happening though. In fact, many states have made this hybrid illegal to own because of the issues with their behavior. Wolves do not mature at the same speed that dogs do. Researchers at Duke University in North Carolina have also discovered that domesticated dogs still have puppy-like behaviors well into old age. Old dogs still play. Wolves are far less likely to be interested in play and do not behave like puppies. Therefore, it is postulated that domesticated animals differ from wild counterparts in that they do not mentally mature to the extent of wild animals. This is especially the case in dogs. Because of the way they differ, a person can get far more than they bargained for when they choose a German Shepherd Wolf hybrid. In fact, it may be an outright mistake, so do your research! The German Shepherd Wolf mix can make for a super loyal and friendly dog, but at the same time when left untrained or bored, they can be incredibly destructive. Another big factor is you never know how much wolf side the dog may take, and they can become incredibly aggressive with small animals, and it will beg the question of whether your dog is tame or not. You will need to closely watch for signs of the wolf side developing for the first two years, as they slowly pop up until they reach maturity. As puppies, they often act exactly as if they were purebred German Shepherds. This is where Duke University research comes into play. Your wolf pup was a pup, but now that he is an adult, if he takes more after the wolf genetically, he may be a wild animal that you simply cannot control. It may be a dangerous situation waiting to happen and the liability is great. Your German Shepherd Wolf hybrid may never be safe around other animals or even children. What will you do if he escapes your yard? He could do a lot of damage. In fact, they can jump a six-foot fence with ease. There have been cases of wolf hybrids attacking children and even jumping into cribs and killing babies. This is not an average pet and it is not a domestic animal. First, wolf mixes can be trained to like kids and do well around them. Children who are young, as well as infants, should absolutely never be left alone with one of these dogs. The risk is simply too great. Ask the Virginia family whose eight-day-old baby was mauled and killed by their wolf hybrid. They thought they knew the dog. It is a criminal liability as well. Are you prepared for this? Young kids have a hard time understanding the sensitive nature of the wolf mix, and one wrong tug on the ear or pat in the wrong place can trigger the wolf side to come raging out. Fact 5 - They Are Very Healthy Dogs Thanks to genetic diversity and both parent breeds which are quite healthy themselves, the German Shepherd mix is overall a very healthy dog, and you can expect them to live for around 15 years — which is impressive for such big dogs. There are a few health conditions that you should still be on the lookout for such as hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. Neither the wolf or the German Shepherd are particularly susceptible to illnesses or chronic conditions. Some German Shepherd police dogs have been wounded in the line of duty and continued to fight assailants, even with a bullet wound. These hybrids tend to be fearless, as both parent breeds are not known for backing down from much. They are fierce protectors and could potentially make a good working dog if the hybrid takes more from the domesticated genes of the Shepherd, for control purposes. Dogs have evolved to better handle carbohydrates, where wolves have not, and this makes kibble an ill choice for the mix breed. As well, you need to be careful about salmonella. These are the two big reasons vets recommended kibble over raw for most dogs, but with the wolf mix raw still the best choice. You may find that a mixture of raw and kibble works well for your hybrid. The best thing to do is to monitor his health very carefully and work with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog is doing well and remaining healthy at all times. Both the shepherd and the wolf have big exercise demands as German Shepherds are bred to work all day and a wolf is a wolf. Both animals are capable of running long distances. A wolf can run all day, quite literally for hours, chasing prey. They follow the scent of deer for days until they find a herd. Then they single out the weaker animal and hunt as a pack. Their instinct to run is very strong and their stamina is incredible. The German Shepherd was also bred with this same quality for police and guard dog work. They are amazing. A GSD can leap over walls as tall as 8 feet. They can wrestle grown men to the ground, run through burning buildings, carry a pack all day long, balance on beams high in the air as they sniff for bombs, and work with soldiers in the field doing bomb seeking and more. Any mix of these two animals is not going to want to lay around and sleep while you watch soap operas all day long. As well, with other dogs, not giving them enough exercise can result in health problems, not giving the wolf hybrid enough exercise will result in health issues and them getting bored and destroying things. When they destroy something, it will be something big - like eating a whole recliner. These dogs often get anxious when cooped up for too long. Both the wolf and the German Shepherd are notorious for being big-time shedder with both growing incredible [] coats in the winter. As well, since your wolf hybrid is part wolf you may have a harder time finding a groomer to groom them, so make sure you check out How to Stop Dogs from Shedding for all the grooming tips you could possibly need. To say that they shed massive amounts of fur each year is possibly an understatement. They will lose enough fur each year to piece together an entire pack of more dogs. Invest in a shedding blade and groom your dog daily, outside. Let the fur blow away and birds and other small animals will use it as nesting material. Some dog trainers will not even want to work with you if you have a wolf-hybrid because they know the risks associated and there is a liability on their part as well. You may have to sign special waivers and even then, many trainers will refuse to work with an animal that is part wolf. Taking a course to help you learn about wolves is a great idea. Your local zoo may be able to give you some tips as well. Ask for references and choose someone who uses positive reinforcement, rather than punishment. This will be far better. You are much better off to not teach a wolf how to be aggressive. Many places have laws against owning any sort of wolf mix, including a German Shepherd-Worf hybrid. This is because, unlike dogs, wolves are completely wild animals, and while they can be domesticated to a certain extent, that wild streak is likely to live on. It just means that in extreme circumstances, these dogs are likely to be less predictable than those without wolf DNA inside them. The appeal is undeniable, but you still need to do your homework before adding one to your pack. Most experts would contend that a wolf mix is one with a purebred wolf in its bloodline within four or five generations. They act just like canine puppies for the most part. However, once they start to grow up, the wolf-like tendencies begin to emerge. They can start slowly in adolescence before becoming extremely apparent in adulthood. Many people have fallen in love with a wolf mix puppy, thinking that it has the features of a wolf but the sweetness of a dog. That may be true in some cases, but in others, the animal grew up to be quite a fearsome pet indeed. They Can Be Quite Unpredictable You would think that a wolf mix would be proud and fearless, never backing down from anyone or anything. The fact of the matter is that while these dogs can certainly be ferocious, they also tend to be extremely shy and skittish. Wolves are scared of people and for good reason, sadly. That means that while your German Shepherd Wolf mix would readily sacrifice their own lives to protect their family, they usually also prefer to cower and hide when strangers arrive. That can lead to dangerous situations, especially with children. If you push these dogs past their breaking point, the wolf will eventually come out — and that can have tragic results. Some of these animals take after their canine parents, while others favor their wolf lineage. Generally speaking, though, you can expect your German Shepherd Wolf mix to be fiercely loyal and protective of their families yet wary of outsiders. Due to the wolf in them, these dogs tend to be more pack-driven than other pups. You may even want to give them a canine companion, although this can have its own set of challenges. That intelligence makes them capable escape artists, though. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Little ones will often push a pet too far, and you never know when the wolf will come out. If you do bring one of these animals into a home with little kids, never leave them unsupervised. You should also teach your kids how to deal with the dog, making sure they know not to mess with their food or toys or abuse them in any way. Older kids may be able to get along with them, though, so if your children are a little more mature, you might be able to bring one of these dogs home without issue. All of this assumes that you know how to handle one of these animals, of course. They get lonely easily and may become depressed if left alone for long periods of time. However, they may be prone to aggression with other dogs as well. Pack culture is a much bigger deal for wolves than for dogs, so your mix may be prone to dominance. Other pets, however, are likely a bad idea. Cats and smaller animals will most likely be seen as food rather than friends, so you should keep your German Shepherd Wolf mix as far away from them as possible. All of this also means that you need to be absolutely certain that your mix is kept on a secure leash and collar or harness during walks. You may not feel up to the task once you realize how much is involved with raising one of these animals. That will affect how much they eat, but you can expect them to have a healthy appetite regardless. These are energetic pups, so they need as much long-lasting energy as they can get. Avoid problematic ingredients like soy, wheat, corn, or animal by-products, as these can make your dog fat without giving them much in the way of nutrition. Many dogs have trouble processing these ingredients as well. In addition to feeding them a proper diet, you should exercise strict portion control and never allow them to free-feed. As a result, expect to provide your pet with plenty of exercises. They can easily destroy your entire lawn if not properly tuckered out. Long walks are a good idea, but you should also play fetch or something that requires more energy every day. Just be careful not to make them run and jump too much, as it puts quite a bit of strain on their spines. Mental stimulation is equally important. You can give them puzzle toys, play hide-and-seek, or put them through extensive training sessions. They respond best to positive reinforcement, so try to convince them to cooperate by offering them treats or affection. The problem with this is that eventually, those emotions will boil over. That could lead to unpleasant consequences for you. The shedding becomes extreme twice a year when the dogs blow their coats. You should only need to bathe them if they get visibly dirty, but you will need to brush their teeth and trim their claws regularly. Be sure to keep their ears clean as well, as they can be prone to infection. This reduces the risk of spinal issues later in life. Still, there are a few things to be aware of. Minor Conditions. This is a dog that combines the characteristics of a German shepherd and a wolf. There are many people who are interested to know more about these dogs, and that is why we have created this blog. It will give you a detailed overview of German shepherd wolf mix dogs, and why they are so popular as well as not a good pet dog. .Having a German shepherd wolf mix as a pet is a special treat like no other. Most people who have come to love their GSD wolf mix spend a great deal of time researching their new pup, as well as the reasons why they adopted one. With that being said, it is also true that a large majority of people are completely unaware of the joy that comes with having a wolf dog. The hybrid of German Shepherd and the wolf has been known as the Wolf Shepherd. They are similar in appearance to the German Shepherd and wolf, but there are quite a few differences between the two. They are very active dogs and need to be taken out for a long walk at least once a day. They are not known to be good watchdogs or guard dogs. Keep in mind there are different types of wolf dogs. In this post, we will get to know more about the Wolf Shepherd breed and what you need to know before adopting or buying one. The German shepherd wolf mix is intelligent and strong. We have compiled a few interesting facts about this beautiful dog breed. The German shepherd wolf mix dog breed is one of the breed dogs that can not become an important part of the family. This is the only reason that these dogs are not kept as pets. It is a dog that is used for various purposes like for herding and guarding, but it has a good personality. How to find a good dog breeder: While there is a lot of information in the market regarding the German shepherd wolf mix, there are very few resources that can give you tips and tricks on how to find the best dog breeder. You need to be able to distinguish between fake and real dog breeders in order to ensure that you get the right dog. However, there are a lot of people that are not aware of the differences between the German shepherd and wolf, or what the German shepherd wolf mix is like, and they might be confused about why you would want one. History Of German Shepherd Wolf Mix: From to the early s, German shepherds crossed with wolves were used to produce a new type of dog that was bigger and more aggressive. These dogs were bred to help police and army dogs. It is considered to be a working dog and is immensely capable when it comes to performing different tasks, having served in the military, police and search and rescue for many years. They are also used by the blind, deaf and disabled by several service agencies. It is a very strong and athletic dog. These dogs were originally bred from the wolf and various herding dogs. While the exact origin of these dogs are not known, there are several theories about how these dogs were bred. With the German Shepherd being so popular and with the increase in its demand, people have started to breed them with other breeds. The German Shepherd wolf mix is one such breed that is popular with people looking for a high-class guard It is not easy to fully explain the history of the German shepherd wolf mix. So some people have decided to find out the truth and try to understand what happened in the past and how the variety of German shepherds on the market has been formed. German shepherd wolf mix is not a common pet and most owners of this breed prefer not to sell the breeding rights and keep them for themselves. Over a period of time ,the German shepherd wolf mix has become a rare breed and is considered a designer pet. German shepherd wolf mix also known as GSW is a mixed breed dog which comes with a distinct personality. You will find that these dogs have a striking resemblance to the German shepherd but with some wolf features in them. They are the product of a crossbreeding between the German shepherd and the wolf. They have a strong resemblance to the German shepherd, but are larger in size. These dogs are highly intelligent and are very good companions. These dogs need to be trained at an early age to grow into a well-mannered dog. If you are planning to get one of these dogs as your pet. This mixture has produced a unique breed of dog which has a lot of physical similarities to wolves. Wolf Shepherds are loyal, strength full, Aggressive and are not family pets. German shepherds are generally well-trained and protective dogs. German shepherds have a long and strong history and they have been used in wars and in security work. With the latest advancements in technology and a significant increase in human population, people are trying their hands at different animal crossbreeding and the German shepherd wolf mix is one such hybrid. This is quite a new breed of dog and there is not much information about the breed. Only in recent years, there has been a surge in the number of such dogs. The main reason for this is the unique feature of the dog. They are great guard dogs and have the instinct of a wolf. This feature makes them great guard dogs. When they are mixed they are inches tall, weigh between 80 — lbs. They are intelligent, well built and are very active dogs. This dog breed is known to be smart and alert. This is because the result of mixing these two dogs gives you a beautiful dog that can be used for so many different jobs. But do you know what the German Shepherd Wolf mix personality will be like? The temperament of German Shepherd dogs is likely influenced by the wolf. The German Shepherd dog is known to be a highly intelligent, courageous, alert and loyal dog. Hence, the German Shepherd dog can inherit these characteristics from the wolf. The German shepherd wolf mix dogs are very intelligent and aggressive as well. They are not good with children. They are not considered as a good family pet and not recommended to keep at home. The German shepherd wolf mix dogs are very sociable. The German Shepherd Wolf Mix temperament is not always predictable. The wolf dog is a mix between the German Shepherd and a wolf, which can be two challenging breeds to raise. It is important to know how to raise a wolf dog so you can avoid problems while the puppy is growing. The result of mixing these two dogs should give you a dog that is very trainable and extremely loyal. They will hold their family close to their heart. They will be a very protective and loyal dog. They are not easy-going like many other mixed breed dogs. The German shepherd wolf mix is a very unique dog breed. The result is a dog with strong characteristics of both. German Shepherd Wolf Mix Health Issues: As the name suggests, dog breeds that are a mix of different breeds are, by nature, unique. While all dogs share some health conditions, these genetic combinations can trigger particular illnesses in the dog. Here, we are looking at the health concerns related to German Shepherd and Wolf Mix. This crossbreed is not an accepted or recognized breed but is still a popular choice for many dog lovers. The German Shepherd Wolf Mix is an intelligent breed, loyal and obedient to its owners, but can be protective and territorial Although there are many benefits to owning a German Shepherd Wolf Mix, there are also some health issues to consider. If you know what to look out for and what to avoid, you can help your dog live a long and healthy life. They are prone to:. Prone to shedding. Lifespan: 12 - 14 years. They can have several health issues including joint problems and cancer. No - definitely not recommended for families with young kids. Unpredictable temperaments. Although GSDs are easily trainable, wolves are wild animals. These hybrids should be reserved for very experienced dog owners. They need a ton of exercise, which is easier said than done. Once they reach a certain age and level of strength, walking your wolfdog in public can be difficult. In most places in the United States, it is illegal to own a wild animal like a wolf unless you have a special and expensive wildlife permit. GSD-wolf mixes walk a tightrope between being considered wild animals or domestic pets. Because of the wolf parent or grandparent, the law considers the resulting mix not reliably domesticated, and thus prone to acting dangerously. Therefore, if you want a wolf-dog mix, you may have to do a lot of research to even find a place in the world that will let you do so. Some proponents of wolf-dog mixes claim that some dog breeds have more grey wolf parent DNA than other dog breeds. If these breeds are allowed, then so should GSD and wolf mixes. According to Science Trends. These breeds include the Finnish Spitz, the Shar-Pei, the Siberian Husky another breed often crossed with wolves , and the Greenland dog. However, the ancestors of these breeds branched off from wolves thousands of years ago, and not simply one or two generations ago. Over one hundred years ago, German shepherds were popularly called Alsatian Wolf Dogs, since they were bred in the Alsace region of what is now France and looked like wolves. However, no wolves were actually involved in creating German Shepherd mixes. Other breeds mistakenly thought to have wolves in their recent ancestry include Siberian Huskies and the Alaskan Malamute. Although descended from wolves, the last wolf in their pedigree was thousands of years ago. Even puppies in the same litter can act in vastly different ways. Wolves tend to ignore people and do what they want. Any wolf-dog mix will be prone to unpredictable behavior at times, and will tend to act more like a wolf than a dog. Wolves are intensely territorial creatures. They attack any predator in their home range, including wolves not in their packs. This behavior has convinced some people that GSD-wolf mixes make better guard dogs than dogs. This, however, is a myth. According to the International Wolf Center, dogs have been bred for thousands of years to bark when intruders appear. Wolves on the other hand stay silent. This is because large dogs age faster than small dogs. Why this happens in dogs and not other species is not known. The future health of a wolf mix is harder to predict than the health of a purebred dog. After decades of study, it is now known what health problems certain breeds are prone to. Because German Shepherd — wolf hybrids are a genetic toss of the dice, you have no way of knowing what health problems these animals will be prone to. A wolf mix needs to be well-behaved in order to be treated for an illness, but the mix may even be too dangerous to treat. Never assume that all vets will be willing to take in a German shepherd wolf mix as a patient. All the vets in your area may refuse to work on such an animal, and this is not due to prejudice against wolves. Although all vets are trained to help domestic animals like dogs, very few are trained in the care of exotics. One problematic area for vets and exotic animal owners is that of vaccination. Rabies vaccines are crucial for dog owners. Because of the threat of rabies and the problems of the rabies vaccine working on wolf-dogs, any wolf-dog that shows signs of rabies or has been exposed to a rabid animal needs to be euthanized. The two most common medical problems with any wolf-dog mix are complications from being overweight and hip dysplasia. Being overweight can also contribute to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is very common in German shepherds and in most large dog breeds. Hip dysplasia symptoms like limping start when the dog is young, and gets worse over time if left untreated. This is a very painful and chronic condition that may require surgery to treat. Depending on the genetic roll of the dice, a GSD wolf puppy may be looking at a very short, unhealthy life. GSDs are also prone to a deadly and incurable condition called degenerative myelopathy that hits GSDs seven years of age and older. However, this can become quite complicated since wolf-dogs cannot be walked and played with like normal dogs. Puppies may be able to walk on a leash in the beginning. Sadly, a lot of wolf-dog hybrids wind up staying permanently in an outdoor pen because they cannot be walked or trained. Despite the endless unknowns surrounding a GSD wolf mix, their size is actually predictable. The smallest hybrids will be as small as a GSD — roughly 49 pounds. The largest will be about pounds, which is the size of a large male Mackenzie Valley wolf, the largest known wolf species. As is common in most wolf species and dog breeds, females tend to be smaller. GSDs are as tall as small wolves, but wolves can actually reach heights of 34 inches tall at the shoulders. GSD wolf mixes come in a wide variety of colors, but most have two or even three tones to their coats. Common two-toned colors include black and tan, grey and white, silver and white, brown and grey, and tan and grey. Puppies of dogs, wolf-dog mixes, and even wolves can be trained and easily handled. However, once the wolf-dog hybrid becomes physically and sexually mature, all bets are off. Just when a GSD wolf mix matures differs from puppy to puppy. Dogs mature a lot faster than wolves. A German shepherd wolf mix could mature as early as six months, when a GSD matures, or as late as four years old when a wolf typically matures. However, these are not wolves. However, if you want an animal that obeys commands all the time, why not just save yourself the time and money, and go with a dog? They also ask people for affection. They have to be taught to hunt by their older pack-mates. They grow accustomed to being given food at predictable times. All wolf hybrids, including GSD wolf mixes, have severely bitten or attacked people and pets in the United States. Wolf-hybrids often attack children more than adults because children make noises resembling small prey animals. More often, wolf-dog mixes will attack other pets than people. These are very territorial animals. If any other animal is perceived as being on their turf, a GSD wolf mix may not only attack but kill a dog, cat, or other animal. Not only will you have to pay restitution and possible court costs, but depending on your local laws, your GSD wolf mix may be confiscated and euthanized. Your chances of appeal are very small, and will involve significant legal expenses. The only known factors are that this is a large animal with the ability to inflict serious damage on pets, livestock, wildlife, and people, especially children. You may have to keep the animal in a pen for the rest of its life. You may never be able to find a vet willing to look after the GSD wolf mix. You may have laws banning the ownership of such an animal where you live. A GSD wolf mix puppy or adult costs thousands of dollars. You will need plenty of land, fencing, and legal advice in order to keep it. When it comes to any wolf-dog mix, leave it alone. Get one of the safer German Shepherd mixes instead. German Shepherd wolf mix breeds are one of the biggest dogs you can get, averaging to around 24 inches tall. In terms of weight, they average to around 60 lbs heavy when they are fully grown. While this is slightly smaller than the average German Shepherd, this is still large for a dog. Remember, their personality will make them seem even larger than they physically are. This mix breed is highly unpredictable. This means that while German Shepherds are generally bigger than the wolf mix breed, they are much more obedient. A larger and more obedient German Shepherd will seem much smaller than a GSD wolf mix that has an unpredictable and potentially dangerous temperament. Even though GSD wolf mix breeds might grow to be slightly smaller than a regular German Shepherd, the average lifespan of both is the same. They are both considered medium-large breeds, which means that they can come with a variety of health issues including joint problems and cancer. What percentage of German Shepherds are wolf? Technically speaking, every dog derives from wolves. They were never bred with wolves. It all depends on the genetics of the German Shepherd, as some might have come from a background that bred wolves into the family. Instead, German Shepherds descend from the Canidae biological family in the same way as other domestic dogs do. This biological family includes wolves, foxes, and dingoes. Other breeds of dogs like Siberian Huskies and Finnish Spitz are more closely related to wolves as their ancestors had been wolves for thousands of years. How can you tell if your German Shepherd is part wolf? German Shepherds were never bred with wolves when the breed was standardized in Germany in the s, which means that there is no element of wolf in their DNA. Still, they are part of the Canidae family in the same way as other domesticated dogs are. However, you can still commit to a genetic test to see if your German Shepherd has come from a family that attempted to breed a wolf into the genetic line. Also, when buying or adopting your GSD, the seller should make you aware of if the dog is part wolf. In the wild they are pack animals and at home this translates to a fierce loyalty and extreme protectiveness over their families, whom they consider their pack. The pack mentality that this mix has is dampened down by their German Shepherd parents, but they still maintain some of that natural wariness that wolves in the wild have of humans. There is a common misconception that breeding a German Shepherd with a wolf will make an even more ferocious guard dog, but this often backfires since wolves are shy and reserved when threatened. This can make these mixes shy and nervous. They have an inherent mistrust for anything out of the ordinary and thrive on routine in their day-to-day lives. To bring out the friendly German Shepherd side of the mix , they need plenty of early socialization to other dogs, new situations, and changes in their home. Both parents have strong prey drives, so expect them to want to chase everything. They also love to dig, with an instinct to dig burrows just like wild wolves. To provide an outlet for this energy they will need lots of space outdoors to roam, play, dig, and explore. This mix will not cope well with living indoors all the time. Overall, this mix is a tamed version of their wild wolf parent. They are unpredictable, aggressive, energetic, protective and shy. However, despite all of their similarities to the wolf, they are still part German Shepherd and will likely respond poorly to dominance training. You are much better off using positive reinforcement. These mixes are intelligent and loyal so they will be eager to please and therefore much more likely to follow your rules if you are kind but persistent and firm with instructions. As far as socialization you should start as early as possible. However, even when trained properly by an experienced owner, Wolfdogs are still unpredictable and therefore only suit the most knowledgeable of owners. Their hybrid vigor means that in general they tend to be healthier than both their parent breeds. Although they do not suffer from any known common health issues, there is a question over how well the rabies vaccine works in these dogs. The vaccine has not been tested in Wolfdogs and therefore it cannot be certain that it works or is even safe for them. This is relatively cheap given they are such a rare and legendary dog. However, they are cheap because they are not in high demand and they are banned in many states. In fact it is hard to find a breeder. These dogs are sometimes illegally bred and therefore do end up in rescues. Here are three specific Wolfdog rescues where some of the dogs are likely to be German Shepherd cross wolf amongst other wolf crosses. Saarloos Wolfhunds originated in the Netherlands in when a zoologist called Saarloos crossed a German Shepherd with a Siberian gray wolf. He believed they had become too domesticated and loved humans a little too much. This is because recent genetic research shows that this dog is more wolf than they are German Shepherd, making them more like their wild ancestors than the domesticated ones. Because of this the American Kennel Club does not recognize the breed as they are too wild and unpredictable. Meanwhile, in the Czech Republic, German Shepherds were crossed with Carpathian Gray wolves with the idea of creating a border patrol dog. The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was slightly more successful than Saarloos because they wanted simply the physical characteristics of the wolf to enhance the German Shepherd, rather than their aggressive tendencies. With similar aims as in the Czech Republic, Russia become the third country to breed the German Shepherd with wolves. This time the Caspian Steppe wolf was used. These wolves are known for their unusually friendliness towards humans. They became known as the Volkonsoby Wolfdog, however they are not recognized by any Kennel Club internationally. Care Caring for these dogs comes down to three important tasks: feeding, grooming and exercise. German Shepherd Wolf Mixes have a much higher requirement for protein than standard domesticated dogs. Feeding kibble will not be enough to keep these huge dogs healthy. In the wild wolves spend a good part of their day hunting and eating whatever they catch. Providing your mix with a raw diet by hiding it around their outdoor space will encourage them to use up some of their endless energy and use that intelligent mind of theirs to sniff it out and eat it. Next up is exercise. Wolves can travel up to 50 miles a day so it is no surprise that this mix is full of energy. They need plenty of space to roam outdoors as they are not fond of being walked on a leash. However, they love to play games and will need at least 2 hours a day of vigorous exercise such as playing frisbee or tug-o-war. The final part of their care is grooming. As heavy shedders with a thick double coat they need grooming once a week. Like their German Shepherd parent, this can be done using a slicker brush. An important part of the weekly groom should be checking them for ticks and fleas. With the amount of time they spend outdoors they are particularly susceptible to picking up ticks and they are therefore at a higher risk of the diseases carried by them too. They need an owner who knows how to handle and train them well, as well as one with a large and well-secured yard for them to roam and play in. Wolfdogs will howl and it can be heard up to 10 miles away. They howl more when left alone or when bored but they will howl to some extent no matter what. Because of this these dogs are not suited to the city. Ultimately, these dogs take a lot of time, money, and effort to keep. Despite their mighty looks they should not be bought as status pets. They require an experienced, knowledgeable owner with good reason to own this breed. If you are looking for more a pet-friendlier dog then consider the Blue Bay Shepherd. These dogs grow to be some of the biggest out there They can weigh up to pounds and measure more than 30 inches tall. However, on average they are close to pounds and 25 inches tall. What would you feed a German Shepherd wolf mix? These mixes should be fed on a well-balanced raw feed diet with vitamin and mineral supplements. Is there any wolf in a German Shepherd? Just like all domestic dogs, the German Shepherd descended from the wolf. However, they are no more related to the wolf than a Frenchie or a Spaniel, given that the ancestors of all domestic dogs evolved around 30, years ago from the wolf. Wrapping Up Wolfdogs are any breed of domestic dog crossed with a wolf, but the most common and only recognized of these are German Shepherd cross wolves. Although they are protective and loyal, they are generally shy and nervous dogs especially when faced with strangers or new situations. Just remember that they are a half wild animal and are unpredictable. They need a lot of outdoor space to carry out all the normal activities their wolf parent would have done in the wild, including roaming, digging, hunting, howling, and playing. Do you think you could handle this mix as a pet? He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.