german shepherd puppy 4 months

German Shepherds are very gentle dogs and are much known for their protective traits. Unfortunately, last , there was a new adoption fee. Adopting a German Shepherd in New Jersey would now cost around dollars to dollars. These German Shepherds are provided with consistent medical care. Ever since the German Shepherd gets rescued, they will closely be monitored and have the privilege of being spayed and neutered. Care also includes all kinds of shots for dogs. Choosing a Good German Shepherd Rescue If you are trying to adopt a rescued German Shepherd from German Shepherd shelters, you might be confused about what you should consider. If you ask people to like your friends and family, they might have different opinions that confuse you. But there is not so much to consider. The fact that you chose to adopt a rescued German Shepherd rather than buying one is already one act of kindness. You might already know that there are so many rescued German Shepherds in the world and only a few German Shepherd shelters. If the German Shepherd comes at you with no hesitations and no aggressiveness, you would know that it was a good rescue. If the German Shepherd is warm and inviting on your first encounter, it is already a good rescue because there are no signs of trauma or aggression. How do I pick a good rescue German Shepherd? You might ask yourself what kind of German Shepherd you should adopt and rehome. You can look for outgoing dogs. You can tell that by observing their body language when you first meet. However, if you are also not down to unlimited patience, you can avoid a shy German Shepherd. These dogs can be a little bit of work because they are afraid and run away from you. If you are outgoing and are a very hands-on person, you might not enjoy your German Shepherd because of its shyness. Dogs can be trained and can also be flexible like some people are. If you love a challenge, you can pick any dog you want. Summary Adopting a German Shepherd is a difficult job since it entails several chores and criteria. However, as compared to breeders, German Shepherd shelters provide a more inexpensive way to enjoy the company of this lovely breed. There are a few German Shepherd rescues in New Jersey. While adoption differs from purchasing a puppy, you will still love a German Shepherd. Other States. The German Shepherd is such a beautiful and loyal dog with amazing training capabilities. They were originally bred as gun dogs for hunting large game, working dogs for herding sheep, or herding other animals. Over time their popularity increased as they became favorites in many families, and then slowly died out in the U. It is heartbreaking to think there are so many homes waiting to get German Shepherd rescues, but it is possible with a little help. It is important to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or adult dog from a legitimate German Shepherd rescue. Many times they have been bred with stray and unwanted dogs. These dogs often suffer from horrible conditions such as disease, broken bones, dehydration, overfeeding, or being sold to dirty owners. These puppies will not only be unhappy, but they will be in terrible shape when adopted. They need love, compassion, and care from their new owners and you must ensure that the puppy or adult dog you choose is going to a loving, dedicated and healthy home. Your search for a German shepherd rescue dog in your new jersey state can be shortened if you look online. Just Google your desired breed, location and you will find listings of local German Shepherd rescues. Once you have chosen an NJ rescue group and made a decision on which puppy or adult dog you would like to adopt, go to the shelter and fill out an adoption application. Once you have applied and been approved for adoption you can then go home and wait for your new German Shepherd puppy or adult dog. Many organizations that work with German shepherd rescue puppies and German shepherd rescues throughout new jersey offer you the option of visiting them in person. If this is the option that you choose to use, be sure to plan on spending several hours at the shelter and viewing the dogs before you bring them home. The experience that the volunteers and staff have will help prepare you and your family for bringing your new family member home. Another option that you have for finding German shepherd rescues in your area is by using the Internet. Many websites allow you to look at pictures of the dogs and get an idea of how they look. You will want to visit the websites often during the process so that you have up-to-date pictures and descriptions of the different dogs. Your final option for finding German shepherd rescue NJ puppies is to ask other dog owners where they have gotten their dogs. Chances are that if you ask other owners where they got their dogs from, you will receive several different answers. It is important to keep in mind that the breeders are likely not going to give you the information that you need. In most cases, you will have to go elsewhere to find out this information. There are a variety of reasons as to why finding homes for your German shepherd dog should be done as quickly as possible. These reasons include; potential health problems, behavioral problems, bad temperament, bad training skills, and possible genetic diseases. Each of these problems can turn out to be bigger problems than you originally thought when they were reported. The vet will also be able to tell you how long it will take to properly treat these problems and if they are something that your German shepherd puppy can live with or not. When it comes to getting German puppies, you will want to make sure that you do your research as soon as possible. This is important because many times the breeder or previous owner of a German Shepherd breeder does not conduct a full check price on his dogs. As a result, these dogs are often sold at much lower prices than their kennel counterparts. The easiest way to find these types of low-cost German Shepherd puppies is to check the price online for a German Shepherd puppy. You can then compare the final price of the puppy to that of standard-sized dog food. Share this:. Final Thoughts The choice to adopt a German Shepherd rather than purchase one as a puppy from a breeder is a noble choice. The highly sought-after German Shepherd is in fact one of the most euthanized, abandoned, and neglected dog breeds in the United States. So, choosing to adopt a German Shepherd dog from a rescue provides a better chance at life for these dogs which is quite Nobel. Also, adopting a German Shepherd dog is relatively less expensive than purchasing one from a breeder. If you reside in the state of New Jersey, and you are searching for a reputable and well-meaning German Shepherd rescue organization or charity to adopt your next furry companion, then you have come to the right page, as we do our bit to make your search a lot easier. This article provides a list of some very good canine rescue organizations in New Jersey that guarantees healthy German Shepherd dogs up for adoption. These dogs were rescued or saved from kill shelters and puppy mills scattered across the state. They each undergo thorough rehabilitation and are placed in foster homes ready for adoption. We have also done our best by compiling and displaying their contact information to help make your search a lot easier. So do read on till the end. They were founded in the year by Jim Dascoli with two main goals in mind, to help or rescue German Shepherds or German Shepherd mixes that have been abandoned or euthanized and found in kill shelters within the state of New Jersey and to provide long-lasting family homes for these rescued dogs to live in happily. The organization functions as a non-profit organization and it is located in Millburn, New Jersey. The Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary does not have a facility of its own, instead, they work with two boarding facilities and foster homes in which the dogs are kept and nurtured. Each dog goes through the process of rehabilitation either through physical and mental or behavioral evaluation done by a licensed vet. They work with many rescue organizations that are scattered across the states of New Jersey and even Pennsylvania to help keep these endangered dogs safe and secure. As a non-profit organization, Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary functions with the help of volunteers and partners. They are always in need of new foster homes, so if you do plan to support the cause, that is a viable option. You can also try adapting any of their German Shepherds that are listed on their website. In addition to that, they have a referral program that is ongoing in which owners can surrender their dogs so they can get a better home to grow in and be happy in. They also work with licensed professionals through a phoenix program to provide adequate medical care to all rescued dogs in need of it.

However, as their genetics play a role here, some backcross generations like F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb may show more Poodle-like characteristics, such as being more active and playful. It has also been reported that Mini and Toy Bernedoodles may be somewhat more energetic than Standard Bernedoodles. In general, the perfect dog! All in all, Bernedoodles are sweet and friendly Doods. As much as they love playing fetch and their daily walkies, Bernedoodles want nothing more than to snuggle up on the couch with you after a long day. Of course, early socialization is crucial to raise a well-socialized and confident Bernedoodle. For this, make sure you introduce your pup to adults and children, other dogs, and cats from an early age. Easy To Train From the highly intelligent Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents, the Bernedoodle has inherited its smarts and the ability to pick up new tricks and habits very quickly. See Also: Click the image As with any other dog, the key here is positive reinforcement and early introduction to good behavior and manners. Moreover, owners report that Berneodoodles respond especially well to positive reinforcement with tasty treats. Something worth remembering! The downside of having such a witty pup is that Bernedoodles can easily become bored and start showing undesired behaviors. Daily mental and physical stimulation are crucial to keep your Dood occupied with fun and interesting activities and games, and prevent them from becoming stressed or destructive. Poodles are highly active, whereas the Bernese Mountain Dog is more relaxed and laid-back. By combining these two outdoorsy breeds, we get rather active Bernedoodles that enjoy their daily walkies and playtime. Additionally, Toy and Mini Bernedoodles may also be more active compared to larger Standard Bernedoodles. Due to their size, Standard Bernedoodles would do better in a spacious home with a fenced backyard, where they have plenty of space to roam around. In contrast, smaller Mini and Toy Bernedoodles can also live perfectly well in apartments provided that they get to exercise each day. Are They Good With Strangers? Bernedoodles are outgoing and social, and enjoy being at the center of the attention. But as with any other breed, the key to raising confident and well-rounded adults lies in proper socialization and training. However, sometimes their protective mode may kick in, and they can be slightly cautious of new people. In addition to that, because Bernedoodles can be a little bit sensitive, they may also be a bit standoffish around new people and in new surroundings. Nonetheless, if your pup has met plenty of new people and other animals, they should generally do well around strangers. Unfortunately, this can also make the Bernedoodle a bit harder to train, especially during the adolescence period. Just make sure you stay consistent with training, and your pup will soon catch up. Fortunately, Bernedoodles usually grow out of their stubbornness as they mature emotionally. Of course, they may still show their stubborn side from time to time. Furthermore, their sensitivity is also something worth considering when it comes to training. Although we always recommend training puppies and dogs only with positive reinforcement, the Bernedoodle especially needs a gentle and loving approach. After all, they come from the Swiss Alps, where one of their main responsibilities has been herding cattle. If your pup has inherited this Bernedoodle personality trait, they may try to herd smaller family members, such as children, smaller dogs, and cats. Fortunately, the excessive need to herd can be prevented with proper training and socialization. If left undealt with, it can become a behavioral concern over time. Separation Anxiety As outgoing, loving, and affectionate as Bernedoodles are, their ability to bond so easily comes with its negatives. Namely, it can often lead to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways. Typically, dogs start excessively whining, barking, chewing, pacing, or digging. Some pups lose their appetite, others start leaving accidents around the house. Not only is this unpleasant for the owner, it also causes emotional distress to the dog. If you work long hours away from home, one option would be to sign your pup up for doggy daycare or hire a dog walker. For this reason, Bernedoodles might not be the best choice for people who have to leave them alone for long periods of time, including office hours. See Also: Click the image High Energy Levels Although we listed their energy levels as a positive for many reasons, it might also be a dealbreaker for many dog owners. As the Bernedoodle temperament can lean on either side of its lineage, some Bernedoodles are naturally much more active, just like their Poodle parents. These Doodles love to hike, jog, swim, and do almost anything outside. And if the pup is highly active, it can become a bit too much to handle for some people. Very active Bernedoodles may even need up to two hours of exercise each day. Are Bernedoodles Suitable For You? So, does the Bernedoodle temperament match your own lifestyle and family dynamics? Bernedoodles are the perfect pets for almost anyone. The Bernedoodle is a social and affectionate companion that thrives in human company. As an added bonus, the Bernedoodle comes in three different sizes. Firstly, Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and moderately active, meaning that these dogs require plenty of mental and physical stimulation every day to avoid destructive behaviors. Secondly, since Bernedoodles are social and affectionate dogs, they are prone to separation anxiety. However, with early training and socialization, puppies usually grow out of it once they reach adulthood. In terms of other negatives, the Bernedoodle is also rather expensive and high-maintenance. On top of that, there are all the ongoing costs of dog ownership , including regular trips to the groomers every few months, and time investment of daily grooming activities at home. On the other hand, as some puppies tend to be stubborn, it may take a little bit longer for them, and require more patience on your end. With consistent training, puppies can usually be mostly house trained within a month or two, especially with positive reinforcement and yummy treats. Realistically, Bernedoodles can be fully house trained somewhere between 3 and 6 months, sometimes even up to a year. We recommend you start your new puppy on potty training as soon as you bring them home to successfully establish good bathroom behaviors. We hope you gained some new insights into the Bernedoodle temperament, along with its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision beforehand. By Chris Nothing is more exciting than bringing a new puppy into your home. With a new puppy, your home is transformed into a playground. What to do when your puppy growls and snaps at you? Reasons my puppy growls and snaps at me? It can become alarming, however, if your puppy starts to show signs of aggression. Puppies like to chew and often bite, but learning how to tell the difference between a natural, playful bite and an aggressive snap is critical. Teaching your puppy at a young age what is and what is not acceptable is very important for new dog owners. Even more critical is recognizing if your dog is behaving in an aggressive and potentially dangerous way. Aggression can make your dog unfit to live in your home, especially if you have young children. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about what to do if your puppy is growling and snapping at you. I will show you the warning signs of aggression to be aware of and how to teach your puppy that snapping is not okay. Mouthing is a natural way that puppies explore their environments and engage with things. Your puppy will likely put your hands and feet and any other objects it can find into its mouth and bite on them. This, however, is usually a very light pressure and will not be a powerful or aggressive bite. Puppies learn from their mother and their littermates how much biting pressure is acceptable before it begins to hurt. If a puppy was unable to receive these cues from its mother and siblings at a young age, it might bite harder than intended and even pierce the skin. If your puppy seems to be biting aggressively, and it is not a playful or curious nibble, then there may be a different underlying cause. If your puppy is growling and nipping, they are likely feeling threatened and in a situation they do not want to be in. Things That Could Cause Aggression Here are a few examples of reasons why your dog may feel threatened or aggressive: Your dog may feel frustrated, which is causing him to act out. Your dog may be in some sort of physical pain. If your puppy is feeling sick or hurt in some way, they may act out to keep you from bothering them. If your dog has a toy or treats that he does not want you to take from him, he may growl and snap at you to keep you away. This is a natural territorial instinct. If your puppy is showing aggression around their food and toys, this could be an early indicator of long-term aggressive behaviors. If your dog is feeling fearful and threatened, perhaps by another dog or a scary situation, he can communicate this by barking, growling, pouncing, and snapping. How To Teach My Puppy Not to Bite Check your dogs teeth for stuck food , build ups or inflammation If your puppy does not receive the training they need from their mother and siblings in the first few weeks of their life, you will have to teach them that biting is unacceptable. If your dog bites someone, owners are liable in most states. The first step is to take your dog to a veterinarian to ensure that there are no inherited or neurological problems that are causing your dog to act aggressively. You need to locate the root of the problem in order to solve the issue. Teething If your puppy is teething, this may be causing them to chew and bite aggressively. Ensure you provide your dog with adequate chew toys and teething-specific treats to keep them entertained and show them what is and is not okay to bite. There are a number of different toys created specifically for puppies that are teething. It can be an uncomfortable process for dogs, and they need to bite and chew. Fearful If your puppy is acting out of fear, it is critical to deal with the issue before it escalates. First, you need to identify what is causing your dog to be fearful. Slowly expose your dog to the source of fear. Put him in a comfortable environment and let him get close to the source at his own rate. Use treats, positive encouragement, and toys to make him relax. Give lots of positive feedback and affection. This takes time and resilience and will not be a fast process. Hang in there and be encouraging along the way. If your dog does not begin to improve, consider speaking with a dog behaviorist to see if anything more serious is going on. Rough Play A Chihuahua playing tug on a carpet If your puppy seems to show aggressive behavior when he is playing, simply walk away when playtime gets too rough. You need to teach your dog that growling and snapping lead to the end of playtime. Begin playing again when he is calm and happy, and when he growls, get up and leave. After enough of this, your pup will understand that he cannot get what he wants by growling, and if he wants to continue playing, he will have to stop. If he bites your arm or hand when playing, stop engaging with him and give him a chew toy to bite-redirecting his energy to an item that he is allowed to chew on will teach him what is okay to chew on and what is not. Providing proper stimulation for your dog is critical. Giving them enough toys and treats to keep them entertained and keep them from chewing on you or other unwanted items will help teach them what is okay to bite and limit their aggression towards you. Training When training a dog , it is crucial to reward their positive behaviors rather than punish them for their wrong behaviors. This is because dogs aim to please and understand positive reinforcement as a way of communication. Punishment can be unclear to dogs and confuse them further. Instead, you should reward your dog each time they pee outside so that they know they are doing what is right when they go outside rather than on the rug. One of the standard recommendations for dogs that are acting this way is crate training. Look into professional training if you feel that it is necessary to train your dog how to behave. There are trainers that focus specifically on aggressive dogs, so this could be something worth looking into. A curly tailed Shiba Inu having the time of its life at the beach Exercise Take them outdoors to exercise regularly. Puppies have a lot of energy and need to relive it regularly. If you do not provide your dog with enough exercise, they can get antsy and release it through aggression. If your dog is pacing and growling, it may need to take a trip to the park and chase the ball. It is also important to let your dog socialize with other dogs. Socialization will keep your dogs confident and comfortable in all situations and around any type of dog. Unsocialized dogs will get defensive and fearful when approached by other dogs, causing growling and aggression. There are many ways to reverse and correct undesirable behaviors, especially in small puppies. Consult with a veterinarian before jumping to any conclusions to make sure that your dog is healthy and fit for your home. Locating the issue and fixing the problem will ensure that your puppy grows up to be a loving, trained, and well-behaved dog. Tweet When two breeds are crossed, some of the advantageous and disadvantageous traits of the parent breeds are genetically passed on to the progeny. There are several reasons why Bernedoodles are a popular breed. They are beloved by many due to their adaptability, lovely curly coats, absurd habits, and clever temperament. Although the Bernedoodle is regarded as a fantastic substitute for the Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, they are not without problems. They Can Be Extremely Stubborn. The headstrong nature of the Bernedoodle is a well-known behavior among this breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for its tendency toward stubbornness. Some of these obstinate traits may have been passed down to your Bernedoodle, but they will improve as your dog ages. The Bernese were bred to labor alone to guard the land and herd livestock. The Poodle is quite smart. When you mix the two, you get a dog that can occasionally be stubborn. They can also be raucous. Owners should never put off starting socializing and training because of this. Fortunately, with the right training, most of their intransigence disappears. Owners of Bernedoodles have remarked that even if their dogs were aware of commands, they would often choose not to carry them out, particularly if they dreaded doing something. But that does not imply that they cannot be trained. Although Bernedoodles adore their families and strive to please them, you must immediately set aside time to form a strong connection with your new puppy. With time and persistence, you will be rewarded with a lovely companion. Smart dogs also require ongoing mental engagement to prevent boredom. For example, a clever, bored dog who starts gnawing on things around the house can turn destructive. They Frequently Experience Separation Anxiety. The Bernadoodle is prone to separation anxiety, just like other doodle dogs. The Bernese was bred to be a working farm dog, but the Poodle was bred to be a hunting companion. Both kinds were developed to coexist with humans. Bernedoodles struggle in a home where there is no constant attention given to them. They are family-oriented dogs, after all. Bernedoodles require a home where someone is always present so they may receive care. For people who are employed full-time, Bernedoodles are not a good choice. It makes sense why Bernese always wanted to be nearby when they were also used as herding dogs. These canines function best when they are with a person most of the day. Bernedoodle owners frequently remark on how much their dogs follow them around. This is especially important for socialization, exercise, training, and overall excellent temperament while they are puppies. Start teaching them to spend time alone when they are still puppies for the simplest way to avoid separation anxiety. Start with a brief time, and extend it as they get older. These canines are not the kind that should be left alone all day. You are not the perfect candidate for this breed if your way of life requires you to be active all day. It can be difficult for people who spend a lot of time away from home because this breed frequently needs care from their owners. Instead, you should sign them up for dog boarding if necessary. They Take Time To Mature. The common Bernedoodle is known for maturing gradually. In actuality, larger dogs typically take longer to mature than smaller canines, and it can take a Bernedoodle up to two years to grow to full size and weight. However, not only their physical maturation is slow, but also their cerebral development. Owners of Berniedoodles report that their puppies settle down and put an end to their mischievous behavior between the ages of 2 and 3. This includes behaviors like counter-surfing and gnawing on prohibited goods. Additionally, housebreaking them might take more time. A Bernedoodle will settle down as it ages, just like any other dog, and then much more as it ages. The Bernedoodle is a fantastic option if you want a dog who behaves like a puppy for a long time. Miniature Bernedoodles will develop a bit more quickly. They Are Prone To Mischief. Although not all Bernedoodles behave this way, several owners have mentioned how they enjoy stealing items like socks and moving them from one location to another. It can be considered cute in some situations, but it can also be a serious issue in others—especially because they enjoy eating socks and other clothing. Although the larger doodle breeds have admittedly consumed objects made of material, the Bernadoodle seems to do it more frequently than any other doodle. They are known to surf the counter as well as steal things. Given their size, a normal Bernedoodle may easily reach the kitchen worktops or dining room table. They are not an ideal partner for someone who likes to leave things lying around due to this inclination. Highly Vocal Dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy speaking up. These dogs bark. A lot. Barking, whining, and grumping are examples of this. However, not everyone wants a canine that responds to commands or barks whenever someone passes by the house. If you leave your Bernedoodle alone for too long, it might start barking a lot. They are renowned for being highly sensitive and anxious. They become uneasy when left alone, which causes them to bark. They could feel safer if you play soothing music for them or keep the lights on. Placing the dog beside the window so it can gaze out is also a smart option. Your Bernedoodle may become bored and start barking if it discovers that it is idle. Give your Bernedoodle some amusing toys, or simply play with them. When they see their owner or anything else they enjoy, Bernedoodles are thrilled. Simply ignore the dog until it stops barking. Bernedoodles take their domain seriously and do not like having outsiders in it. They can lunge and bark when they see strangers or other new faces. They are also only worried about risks of any kind. Here, gradual socialization is crucial. As was previously mentioned, Bernedoodles take their territory seriously and may become aggressive when someone enters it, especially when they are eating or drinking. Due to their great sensitivity, Bernedoodles have problems handling loud, shocking stimuli. When they eat or drink, let them alone. Conclusion These dogs have kind, wise, and modest personalities. They get along well with children, which makes them excellent for families, but they also get along well with single owners. They frequently exhibit suspicion when interacting with strangers. To address this, however, early socializing skills development is very important. Bernedoodles do not exhibit aggressive traits, especially if they are raised in a favorable breeding environment. But because they need constant socialization from their humans, they are more likely to experience separation anxiety, which can result in other negative behaviors. For instance, chewing on objects around the house when their owners are gone is a typical symptom of separation anxiety. Bernedoodles get along well with other dogs in addition to people, but for this to happen, they often need to start socializing at a young age. If a Bernedoodle owner or breeder puts off socializing and training the dog for too long, the result could be a dog with no tolerance for other animals. These hybrids have been in existence since only the early s. The original breeder is Sherry Rupke, a Canadian who first bred her own Bernedoodles in Ontario in .In terms of personality, these dogs are loving, intelligent and modest. They get along well with kids, making them great for families, but they get along well with individual owners as well. Working on their socialization skills early on, however, can do a great job of combatting this. Bernedoodle puppies, however, can be a bit stubborn. They also can be rowdy. This is precisely the reason owners should never wait around to start socialization and training. Fortunately, most of their stubbornness goes away with some proper training. This breed often requires a lot of attention from their owners as well, which can be an issue for people who spend a lot of time away from home. But, regardless of what your schedule is, you should not leave a Bernedoodle on its own for extended periods of time. If necessary, you should enroll them at a dog boarding facility. Bernedoodle Training Tips These dogs do not typically develop aggressive behaviors, especially if they grow up in a healthy breeding environment. For example, a common sign of separation anxiety is chewing up items around the house when their owners are away. In addition to people, Bernedoodles also get along well with other dogs. However, this is typically contingent on them being socialized beginning at an early age. If an owner or breeder waits too long to socialize and train a Bernedoodle, he or she may end up with a dog that completely dislikes the presence of other animals.

They have always carried a deep sense of liking for animals in their lives. Before they ventured into puppy-raising, Ashlee was working as a veterinary technician for a veterinarian and she helped in different aspects of care for pets. These breeders do not ship their puppies but they require a PUG Nanny if in case the buyer cannot come personally to pick up the puppy. They also demand at least a dollars deposit. They will begin to develop a more consistent look over time and with repeated breedings. They have a compact, slim and well-muscled torso supported by long, straight legs. They are always bigger than the Pug, reaching up to 45cm in length and weighing between 8 and 16 kg. Cocker Pugs Sociability Cocker Pugs are bright dogs who like pleasing their owners. Every pet must be socialized. You must create limits early on and educate them to your Cocker Pug in a consistent and patient manner. As a result, your Cocker Pug will most likely have a low to medium level of activity. Cocker Pugs are often friendly dogs that like visiting a dog park and meeting new people. Your dog, on the other hand, may be more laid-back and content to simply lie about. Unfortunately, this can lead to weight gain. These dogs may be more heat sensitive due to their shorter snouts. Avoid walking your dog on hot asphalt to avoid burning their paws. Grooming While most members of the breed have a short coat, they just need to be groomed once or twice a week. A few have significant skin folds on their faces that must be washed. Because their floppy ears are prone to infections, they should be examined. Any wax should be removed, and most should have their ears cleaned every two weeks. Many of the puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy factories, where their mothers are compelled to produce litter after litter. Breeders with a good reputation can be identified online or via kennel groups. When it comes to the care and environment that these breeders provide for their pets, they are held accountable. They reduce inbreeding, which is significant. Final Thoughts A Cocker Pug is a delightful and sociable dog. They are continuously driven by food and desire attention from their owners. They make wonderful companions for any sort of owner. They will go to great lengths to please you, but they must be regulated or they will continue to do what they want. A Cocker Pug is the dog for you if you want a dog that is a lot of fun and is willing to work with you. We compile some of the most well-known breeders of all time. Here are a few breeders you should never ever skip to guide you in having the best cocker pug puppy your own. It is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He was 4 years old on Christmas day. He is full of energy and very strong for a small dog. Very alert, smart, stubborn and loves constant attention. Pedro is absolutely great with kids. I can't tire him out, even on the longest walks. The only time he has embarrassed us is when in the company of people wearing hi-viz clothing, baseball caps and niqab's. Overall he has a fantastic temperament and is always entertaining us with his antics. He was the size of a full-grown Cocker, weighing in at 35 lbs. His ears were long and his snout was short, but not fully pugged. His tail was curled like a Pug. His coat was short, coarse and thick like a Pug, but was wavy by his tail. His eyes were prominent, but not "bugged" like a Pug. He was repeatedly mistaken for a Mastiff puppy, even to the age of nine. Sparky's disposition was even-tempered, tolerant and mellow. He never met a stranger. He had a courageous spirit and feared nothing. He was the happiest dog, and well known for his "full body wag. His tail is like the Cocker Spaniel and docked. He has an extremely soft and shiny jet black coat. He is solid like the Pug but the size of the Cocker. He is the best of both worlds. He was easily to train to sit , lie down, roll over, stay, and pretty much anything. He seems to know what you are saying. He is not too hyper like the Pug, but never runs out of energy for the long walks. Duke is a lap dog; happy and mellow and eager to please, yet our big protector! He is a 6-month-old Cocker Pug. He seems to have the personality of a Cocker; loves to play. He is 25 lb. He is a loving, energetic and adorable pup, with a great temperament. I think he is a perfect example of a beautiful Cocker Spaniel x Pug. In only one month she learned sit, wait, leave it, lie down, and some more of the fun ones: dance, spin, shake, speak and roll over. Her mother is a lb black Pug and her father is a lb. Although she was only 35lbs, she acted as if she were bigger and was the leader of all our dogs. Cudjoe was a great family dog who would never hurt anyone. Unfortunately, she was only 8 when she was diagnosed with cutaneous lymphosarcoma skin cancer and soon after died. She put up a fight to the very end and we were left broken hearted. Lifespan Sociability When you are looking for the perfect puppy for your home, one of the best things you should do is find out everything about the dog that you can, so you know what to expect. Cocker Pugs tend to be loyal and affectionate dogs. They create strong bonds with their human companions and are a great choice for families. Their easily trained and are eager to play with anyone. The mix of the personalities of the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug balance each other out. They result in being intelligent and loving dogs. You need to exercise Cocker Pugs daily, otherwise, they will become pudgy. They need lots of attention. These dogs are very intelligent, but they are often stubborn. Many of them are motivated by treats or food. Cocker Spaniels are happy , affectionate, and social. They are also good with other dogs and children when socialized early, as well as being sweet and gentle. They always want to please you and they crave your attention. Cocker Spaniels are also energetic, so they love to explore and play. Pugs are known as being clowns, while at the same time being intelligent and not at all aggressive. They love spending time with you, and they do their best to take all of your attention. These dogs can also be lazy, which often will cause chubbiness. They have low levels of energy and are glad to simply hang out. If you are noticing that your Cocker Pug is taking after their pug parent, make sure that you are giving them exercise daily. Your dog will be good with children and other dogs , but they can be strong-willed and stubborn. Many times, the genes from the parents of the puppy will balance one another out, resulting in an intelligent, loving and charming companion. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Not much is known about cats. This will be covered when you purchase high-quality dog food. Fats also add Omega-6 and omega-3 to their diet, which is necessary for their skin, coat, heart, and brain. Cocker Pugs generally are social dogs that will enjoy going to a dog park and making some new friends. However, your dog may be more laidback, which means they are happy to simply lay around. Unfortunately, this can make them gain weight. Walking them daily so they get exercise will be needed to keep your dog from becoming overweight. Since they have shorter snouts, these dogs may be more heat sensitive. Therefore, you will need patience while training them. Some of these hybrids can be very stubborn. You can usually motivate your Cocker Pug with food, so use this to your advantage. You also want to use positive reinforcement, combining small treats and vocal praise for rewards during training. This can make them lose interest in their training. Their nails should be trimmed monthly, either by you, your vet, or by your groomer. Since he has floppy ears, you will need to keep them clean to prevent infections due to the buildup of bacteria. Your vet will be able to recommend a wash for you to use. You may need to bathe him each month, particularly if he loves rolling in the grass and dirt while outside. Brush his teeth each week to so that you stop tartar from accumulating. One of the biggest things is the possibility of it having a brachycephalic head with a short snout. If your dog has a face that is similar to a pug , they are going to have more health issues than if it has a Cocker Spaniel head. These dogs are occasionally diagnosed with kidney disease and obesity, and they may need tests such as hip x-rays, thyroid tests, skin scrapings, allergy tests, electrocardiograms, biopsies, and others. Minor Conditions. A mixed-breed can inherit any combination of traits from their parents. Should a Pug Mix take after their Pug parent, they will be an affectionate, social dog that loves their families. A Pug tends to be playful, social, friendly, and gentle. They thrive on attention and affection and tend to get along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. As long as they are well-socialized, they also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. They can be prone to barking and it can become a nuisance behavior if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Pug Mix. You still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed as they will likely introduce their own potential quirks. You can also meet the mother in person to get a sense of her temperament and see the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Pugs are moderately adaptable dogs. Although they do well in apartments as well as larger homes, they are particularly sensitive to heat and cold as a snub-nosed dog breed. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you should be able to expect the same from a Pug Mix. The other parent breed could still introduce some traits that affect adaptability, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs, but it is not a guarantee. They can inherit none, some, or all of the conditions common to their parent breeds. From the Pug side, potential health conditions to be aware of include eye problems, luxating patella , encephalitis, and hip dysplasia. As a brachycephalic, or snub-nosed, dog, they are prone to allergies and respiratory issues. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. A Pug is eager to please and tends to pick up on things quickly. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. The other parent breed could make a Pug Mix easy to train or more difficult, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. A Pug Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Pug coat, it will shed a bit year-round, require weekly brushing, and the occasional bath. Cutting nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal dental care for dogs. Pugs tend to sit in a low to moderate energy range. Usually, daily walks and some playtime are enough to keep them happy and healthy. They may be up for more activity, but can also get easily overheated. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help make sure they get enough activity. If the other parent breed also has a low to moderate activity level, then you can expect something similar from a Pug Mix. However, if the other parent breed is a higher energy dog, then you will want to make sure you are prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. Fully-grown Pugs are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can meet the mother in person to get an idea of what to expect in a fully-grown Pug Mix. A Pug generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Pug Mix. Featured Pug Mix Article.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. If your Golden Retriever is like mine, they just want to play all day. It contains a mix of games that will mentally stimulate them, physically stimulate them, games with toys involved, and games with no equipment needed. Here are the best games to play with your Golden Retriever: Chase All puppies love chasing and being chased, so this is a fun way to tire them out. Treat Toss Treat toss is another way to get your puppy practice coming to you. This is a great game to play to pre-practice recall, get your pup some exercise, and have them learn that good things come from you. This game obviously requires lots of food, so instead of feeding your puppy their meal in a bowl, you could just play this game. To play this game, you and your partner each grab a handful of treats kibble will be fine for young puppies and sit across the room from each other. For more fun or more advanced dogs, there are a few ways to mix this game up. The other option is to take it outside. This is best with older puppies who are not so distracted and who are good at coming when called. We play this game with my 3-year-old Golden Retriever all the time in our backyard where we stand on opposite sides of the yard to get him some exercise. Want to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy fast? Click here to download the Potty Training Cheat Sheet! Tug Tug is a classic game that you can play with Goldens of any age. Once your pup learns how to drop it , you can mix in practicing other commands between sessions of tug. This makes it a great way to get physical and mental exercise, plus bond with them. The only equipment you need to play tug is a rope toy like this one from Amazon. We play fetch with tennis balls he likes the Penn tennis balls better than balls made for dogs or the West Paw Zogoflex Zwig stick. And if you want to make it easy to throw the tennis ball farther, you can get a Chuckit! Launcher to throw the ball like a major league outfielder. Open Sesame This is a fun game to mentally challenge your Golden Retriever puppy and teach them some impulse control. The first step is to grab a treat in your closed fist and hold it out to your pup. The moment they pull away, open your hand and give them the treat. This will teach them that patience, not pestering, will get them what they want. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Airplane Game The Airplane Game is a great game to get your puppy to pay attention to you. To play this game, hold a treat in your hand. She might even jump , bark , or paw at you to get the treat. Immediately reward her for doing so. Muffin Game To play the Muffin Game, take a muffin tin and put treats in it. Then, put balls or other objects over the treats so your pup has to move them to get the treats. Oliver loves this game and this is another idea I got from Brain Training for Dogs. The only requirement is that they either know how to stay or you have a partner to hold them still while you hide. I usually have a few treats to give to Oliver when he finds me, but you could also have a tug toy to play with them as a reward. This game is great because it helps them practice stay and recall , as well as builds the bond with you two. You can also play this game with their toys where you hide one of their favorite toys in another room and they have to go find it. Wrestle Mania Wrestle Mania is what it sounds like — wrestling with your pup! Oliver and I wrestle a few times a week and he loves it. Building A Bond With Them Having a solid bond with your puppy will help them want to behave and obey you more — not to mention this is the whole reason you got a Golden Retriever! Playing games, having fun, and exercising with your pup are all ways to have a better relationship with them. When I was a kid, the only thing that motivated me to learn math was that I wanted to keep score of basketball games. Playing games like Open Sesame will help your pup with impulse control, the Airplane Game will help get them to focus on you, and tug interspersed with tricks and commands is a fun way to practice those behaviors. Have any questions about these games? Let me know down in the comments! Related articles:. To help you narrow your search, the Hounds Lounge pack has broken down the fun games to play with your pup into six different categories, including DIY games, games to make dogs smarter, indoor games, games to keep dogs fit, sense of smell games, and games for older dogs. Start reading now, and find the perfect dog games to play with your fur fam. To play the following games, you can use household items you already have on your paws! Start playing by dropping treats into each muffin cup, covering them with tennis balls, and handing the tin off to Fido! Once your woof has figured out how to reach the treats, you can up the ante by only putting a treat in some of the cups but covering them all with tennis balls. This game requires your dog to solve problems and flex their sniffer! Treat Burrito To cook up a treat burrito, all you need is a towel and some small treats! Lay the towel out flat, then scatter treats all over its surface. Roll the towel up slowly, keeping each treat in place, then serve up the burrito to your pooch. Cardboard Tube Treats Cardboard toilet paper and paper towel rolls can be repurposed into dog toys! One game option is to fill a cardboard tube with peanut butter, then give it to your woof to lick up. You can freeze the tube if you want to keep Fido occupied for longer! Another way to use cardboard tubes to play fun games with your dog is to arrange several tubes in a shoebox so that they all support each other and stand up straight. The tubes should all be roughly the same height. Your woof will thoroughly enjoy hunting down every bite. Snack Track Down This game can involve empty containers of any size, from shoeboxes to yogurt cups rinsed clean, of course. Place a few containers on the ground, with at least one hiding a smelly treat! Then, bring Fido in to sniff out the prize! When you first play this game, you might want to poke holes in the containers to make the treats easier to smell. As your pooch becomes a pro at this game, you can make it harder by adding more containers and spreading them out farther, with only one container hiding a treat! Fill the pool with balls, then sprinkle small treats on top. When your dog enters the pool to get their paws on the treats, the balls will shift, and the treats will move! This game — and most of the dog games to play above — is also a good option for feeding a fast eater. Hide-and-Seek To play hide-and-seek with your woof, have them sit and stay while you go find a hiding place. Treasure Hunt A treasure hunt is similar to hide-and-seek, except you will hide a smelly treat or toy rather than yourself! Tell your dog to sit and stay, then go hide the prize. If they know all these tricks, your pooch is sure to be at the top of their Doggie Daycare class. Stop and Go Some fun games to play with your pup can also reinforce training. Get Fido a little riled up and excited, then create some space between the two of you. Keep playing by repeating this routine a few times over! Stop and Go teaches your dog how to control himself, plus it strengthens his listening skills. A great way to teach them new words is to name their favorite toys, people, and activities. Below are great dog games to play for rainy days, late nights, and for folks who might not have a yard! Clean Up, Clean Up Looking for fun games to play with your pup that are also beneficial to you? Clean up is the clear winner! With this game, you teach your dog to literally clean up after themselves. Introduce a toy bin or laundry basket, and teach your dog to drop their toys inside. Snuffle mats require your dog to sniff out treats that are hidden in folds and pockets. This game is quiet and mess-free, making it perfect for playing with dogs in the great indoors! You can order a snuffle mat on Amazon, or you can easily make your own with a sink mat and strips of fleece from an old blanket! Clear some space and then use household items to design your course. Your woof could weave around stacks of books, shimmy under chairs, hop over blankets or jump through a hula hoop! Even indoors, an obstacle course offers great mental and physical stimulation. Staircase Run If you have stairs in your house or apartment, they offer fun and physical dog games to play! However, be careful not to run too fast, or you could take a tumble! After a few runs, your woof will be pooped out! Obedience Training If you and Fido will be inside together for a good chunk of time, why not work on some training? First, show your dog a toy or a treat, praise them as they are coming to you, then reward them. After a few repetitions, whenever your dog looks at you and starts to move towards you, add in your chosen verbal cue come, here, etc. Make sure to only add in the cue when you are confident your dog is moving towards you. You can slowly up the ante by asking your dog to come before showing them the treat. But, be sure to reward with a high-value treat like chicken, cheese, or beef liver, when they get to you. Also, try slowly adding distance within your low-distraction environment. With positive reinforcement and treats, learning can be fun — and even considered a game! Good training ensures that dogs listen to their owners and stay disciplined, even during fun times! Give your woof a workout with the games below. Tug-of-War Tug-of-War is a classic game, but did you know that the tugging and pulling is also great exercise for your dog? Typically using a rope toy, you and your dog can play tug-of-war inside or outside, and little space is needed. You want to challenge your woof but also allow them to win on occasion! This will teach your dog that they are not allowed to nip at you and, if they do, the fun is over. Fetch Fetch is another classic that burns some serious calories. If you also want to get some exercise while playing fetch, try out this tip from our blog, 8 Ways to Make Exercising with Your Dog More Fun : Take your dog for a normal round of fetch using a ball or their favorite toy. Repeat until you are both pooped! Play fetch with a tennis ball or other ball designed for retrieving. If you really want to get your dog excited, play fetch with a frisbee! Sprinkler Fun Sprinklers offer fun games to play with your pup and your kiddos! If you have little ones and furry ones in the family, playing in the sprinkler is a great way to keep everyone happy on a hot day. Set up your sprinkler where the grass is dry and show your pooch how to jump over the water! Impawtant Note: While your dog can get a sip of sprinkler water, you and the kids should stick to drinking water from inside the house. Get a soccer ball and teach your pooch how to nudge it with their snout. Eventually, try softly kicking the ball toward your pooch and see if they pass it back. If Fido masters passing, give him a shot at playing defense! Dribble the ball up to him, and see if he steals it from you. Before you know it, your woof will be a regular footballer! Chase Bubbles See how many bubbles your pooch can pop! Get a bottle of nontoxic bubbles for kids, and blow a few at a time in front of Fido. Pretty soon, your fur baby will be romping around bursting bubbles! From a classic bath to a spa treatment, your fur baby can get the services they need to look like a million bones. Therefurr, playing with dogs is extra fun when smells are involved! Check out these scent-focused dog games to play with Fido. Close your hands into loose fists, then present your dog with both hands. Your pooch will sniff around a bit, but they should ultimately linger on the hand with the treat, which you will then give them as a reward! To make the game more challenging, have a friend join in to double the pawsibilities! This game involves making Fido work for his food! Play this game by getting Fido distracted or tucking him away before preparing his meal. This is a great mental exercise and a chance for your dog to use his instincts! Stroll and Sniff Walks are a great way to allow your dog to exercise his nose — out and about, there are so many new scents to take in! You can turn a walk into a game by bringing along some small treats and pausing every now and then to drop a treat into a grassy area. Show your dog the treat before you toss it, and then give them a little time to track it down. Then, bring your dog around and show them where the trail starts, and watch them follow it to their reward! Once Fido has mastered short trails, you can create longer ones with more space between each treat. Bring several dog toys into an open area, either indoors or outdoors. Scatter them around the ground. Then, get your pooch and start playing with one of these toys. Both of you should make plenty of contact with the toy so that your scents will linger. The goal is for Fido to bring back the toy you were both just playing with. The dog games to play listed below are senior dog-friendly, as well as great options for dogs with joint problems, arthritis or other health concerns. Swimming If your older dog — or young dog — likes water, swimming is one of the grrreat games to play with dog. Cavaletti Course This game is a toned down version of an obstacle course, making it perfect for older dogs. Set it up by placing a few poles such as broomsticks about a foot apart. Then, slowly walk your pooch through the course while keeping them on a short leash. This is a good strength exercise, and you can make it more challenging by lifting the sticks one or two inches with crushed soda cans or pillows. Modified Fetch Fetch is a timeless dog game to play! You might consider rolling the ball on the ground instead of throwing it. Know when to wrap up fetch and move into nap time! Backward Walking Back it up, Fido! Backward walking is a fun game that helps your dog strengthen their rear legs and also improves balance and coordination. When you get close enough to him, Fido should take a step back, and you will reward him with a treat! Puzzle Dog Games to Play Puzzle games are grrreat dog games to play for any woofs, including seniors! Fun and Games with Furriends! Their furrst day of daycare is free! Make a reservation now at any of our locations. Even if you take your dog for long walks daily, boredom can still set in if they do not have an opportunity to activate their mind. In particular, Golden Retrievers need a job to do to keep their brain busy throughout the day. Without this type of interaction with the world, you just might find that your dog develops some behavior problems. Golden Retrievers need mental stimulation daily to prevent nuisance behaviors like barking or destructive chewing. These games help keep their minds sharp and prevent cognitive decline in old age. You can practice it with puzzle toys, nose work games, and by allowing them to explore the world. If you think that your Golden Retriever could benefit from some mental stimulation, here is everything you need to know. This breed is known for its helpful relationship with its owners. They are known to be excellent at hunting and fieldwork. Others are highly trained in specialized areas to help act as a sight for the blind or to track down individuals in search and rescue work. Golden Retrievers need a job to do to keep them happy and healthy. If you spend much time at all with a Golden Retriever, you are likely to notice that their brains and bodies are always busy. A dog who does not get enough activity each day is likely to show some disruptive behaviors like barking or destructive chewing. You must give these dogs a job or they will find one on their own. Mental stimulation gives your canine a job to do and relieves them from their boredom. As a result, they are less likely to seek out ways to alleviate their boredom on their own. A mentally exhausted dog is often a happier dog. A Golden Retriever needs a good bit of physical exercise each day to manage their energy levels. Many owners do not realize that mental exercise also plays a role in how tired your dog is at the end of the day. Mental stimulation can help them to feel more tired than just physical exercise like a walk around the neighborhood. A tired dog is a happy dog. Benefits of Mental Stimulation for Golden Retrievers Did you know that your dog can show a cognitive decline in its later years? As your Golden Retriever ages, there is a likelihood that they might start to go downhill mentally. They might have high anxiety, physical fatigue, and a decrease in social interaction. Some may even forget basic commands that do not get used regularly. Mental stimulation can help to prevent this type of steady decline when it comes to your pup. It activates parts of the brain that have gone dormant when dogs are left to their own devices. Games and other mentally stimulating activities can keep your dog feeling younger for longer. However, mental stimulation is good for dogs of all ages. Boredom can cause dogs to misbehave. If they are not given a task, chances are that they will start to look for one on their own. This is when your pup is likely to get into trouble. They might begin to chew on furniture, bark incessantly at the neighbors, or even have housebreaking accidents. Many of these behaviors are easily avoided if your dog feels that they have a job to do. Mental stimulation can also help occupy your dog while you are away. Some dogs may suffer from separation anxiety. However, their experience of this feeling can be lessened if they have something to occupy their attention in your absence. This is why it can be good to leave puzzle toys and simple games for your dog to do while you are away. Get ready to curb some of those bad behaviors and set your dog up for success with these twelve activities. Teach your Golden Retriever a New Skill Training your dog to learn a new skill is one way to activate their brain. This can be anything from basic obedience for young puppies to more advanced skills for older dogs. If your dog already knows a wide variety of skills, you can even start to apply them in new ways. For example, a dog who knows how to retrieve might learn to fetch items from around the home. For those who are unsure where to start with training, consider signing your pup up for a group obedience class at a local pet store. A trainer can help you understand the basic concepts of teaching your dog something new. When the class is over, you will have all the tools you need to teach your dog other skills that were not included in the class. Find It If your dog already has a basic stay command, ask him to do so in one room. Meanwhile, you will go to an adjacent room and hide some delicious snacks. Make sure to choose something that has a strong smell to it. Let him use his nose to seek out the treats that you hid. Puzzle Toys Maybe your Golden Retriever needs some mental stimulation, but you simply do not have time to spend with them today. The good news is that they can still get their brain moving even without you present. Purchase a Kong ball or some puzzle toys that they can play with, in your absence. Stuff them with high-value rewards that they will look forward to. For example, you can fill a Kong ball with peanut butter and then pop it in the freezer for a few hours. This will keep your dog busy for hours. Exploration on Walks Walking your dog daily is important to keep them tired and happy. However, you can also use this as an opportunity to exercise their mind. Once in a while, you can give them free rein to explore as you go. They can sniff and experience the world in a new way instead of just being held in a heel position. Working their mind out this way is important. However, you may want to teach your dog a command to release them from a heel position and let them know that exploration is okay. The question is, does he know them by name? Teach your dog distinct names for their favorite toys so that they know which ones to retrieve. You might teach them the difference between ball and rope, for example. If they have lots of toys, you might need to be creative with the simple names you assign to each one. Once they know the names of their toys, you can hide them and ask your dog to find or retrieve them. Agility Courses Most dog owners associate agility courses with physical exercise, but obstacles also teach your Golden Retriever to use their brain as well. They must figure out how to balance on the seesaw, weave in and out of the poles, and how to go over or under a set of hurdles. Agility courses can easily be made out of common household items or you can set up an elaborate course in your backyard. No matter what, this is one activity that is great for Golden Retrievers in both body and mind. Shell Game You have probably seen the shell game played on the street before, but have you ever played it with your retriever? Take two or three cups and hide a treat under one of them. Shuffle the cups around and then ask your dog to find the treat. This forces them to pay attention visually to where the treat goes while you are shuffling. They can even use their sense of smell to find the treat. You need to give them one if you want to keep their minds active and healthy. Teach them to hunt, get them involved in a sport like flyball, or take them for long hikes where they have to carry the pack. Anything, where they have some responsibility, can help to stimulate their mind. More Play Time A lot of dog owners leave their pups to their own devices during the day. However, interactive playtime can be very mentally rewarding for your Golden Retriever. You should be an active participant in the game you choose whether it is fetch or tug. Take Your Dog on Errands How often does your dog get out of the house? Besides his daily walks around the neighborhood, your pup does not have many opportunities to explore the world at large. You can stimulate their mind by taking them with you when you run your errands. Take them along when you go to fill up the tank, head through a car wash, or go to pick up dinner. Your dog will be excited to spend time with you! Buy New Toys for your Golden Retriever If your dog is already used to puzzle toys, you might have to freshen up their toy box from time to time. Once they learn the trick to securing their snacks, the game becomes a bit stale for them. Think of it this way: would you want to play with the same three toys over and over? Try blowing bubbles in the backyard for the little ones and the canine companions. Watch as everyone tries to chase and catch the bubbles. Your dog will love this game because there are endless opportunities to chase the bubbles, but they will never truly get to catch them at the end. Mentally Stimulating Your Golden Retriever No matter what game you choose to play with your pup, they will soak up all of your attention. These mentally stimulating games and activities will keep them happy and tired. After all, a tired dog is oftentimes a well-behaved dog. Because Golden Retrievers were bred for work, it is all the more important to make sure that they are mentally stimulated each and every day. Related Questions How much mental stimulation does a Golden Retriever need? Golden Retrievers should have about twenty to thirty minutes of mental stimulation every day. This is in addition to their daily walks or physical exercise. If you want to combine these tasks, consider teaching your dog games like flyball or agility. Are Kongs mentally stimulating? Yes, Kongs can be mentally stimulating for dogs if you pack them full of treats. For example, you can pack it full of peanut butter and then freeze it overnight. This will require your dog to work harder to get to those tasty morsels. How do I know if my dog is mentally stimulated? Dogs who are mentally stimulated are often better behaved. Dogs who bark, whine, and destroy things often need an outlet to channel their energy. Consider some of the activities on this list to curb some of these destructive behaviors. References Ellis, Nicole. Greenberg, Aurora. Helmer, Jodi. Hi, I'm the owner of Juniper Pets! You can often find me playing fetch with my dogs, working out or cooking up something legendary in the kitchen. Hope you enjoy my blog! Recent Posts. If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Making sure your Golden Retriever gets plenty of exercise is vital to its health and well-being. Physical exercise ensures your Golden Retriever has healthy muscles and bones, that its heart and lungs get stronger, and it helps maintain a healthy weight. However, for your Golden Retriever to be well-balanced, it also needs mental stimulation and socialization. Boredom in dogs can often lead to destructive behaviors. So, what are some good activities for Golden Retrievers? Good activities for Golden Retrievers incorporate physical exercise and mental stimulation and should include training and socialization whenever possible. Physical activities help burn excess energy and maintain physical health, while mental-focused activities aid in cognitive skills and problem-solving. The game also works on recall skills as a bonus. Fetch is simple and cheap. You throw it an item such as a tennis ball, frisbee, or practically anything your dog can comfortably carry, and your Golden gets it and brings it back. Or, if the weather is lousy, you can play a shortened version in the house. The tug game is widely recommended by most science-based trainers and animal behaviorists. Begin by showing your dog a toy that they like and that is suitable for the dog. You may have to really wiggle it and shake it around if your dog has never played before. The goal is to get their interest peaked, and movement usually does it. Every game has its rules, and this applies to a game of tug too. Your dog cannot make contact with skin or clothes, and you decide when the fun begins and ends. Rules for us humans are that no aggressive pulling is allowed, nor is pulling aggressively up at steep angles or side to side. The tug of war game is an excellent way for your dog to learn and reinforce skills such as let go, sit, and go-play commands. The tug game can be combined with fetch as well. Teach your Golden to let go and ask for a sit. Mixing it up keeps it more exciting and mentally stimulating. Follow the Leader Follow the leader is a great training game that teaches your dog to follow you while having fun. If your Golden goes right, you go left; if your dog runs ahead of you, you slow down; if your Golden slows down or stops, you run. The rule is that he follows you. It can be a quick activity to start or end a play or training session, and it works well as an add-on to other activities. I usually like playing follow the leader before a fetch game. Puzzles and Games Many pet stores and online retailers carry puzzle games and lick mats, so if your budget affords it, these can be fantastic options to keep your dog mentally stimulated. Puzzle feeders can be used with your kibble, while lick mats work well with peanut butter, yogurt, or dehydrated foods such as beef liver treats. All dogs need mental stimulation, especially higher intelligent dogs such as the Golden. Many games engage a Goldens brain and include anything from hiding treats in toys to commercial puzzle games. Or we put a treat or two in a muffin tin, put tennis balls on each hole, and the goal is for our Golden to find the reward. Or create a foraging box. Keep some boxes in various sizes, such as cereal boxes. Sprinkle some treats in each box and then place the smaller box inside a bigger one and those inside an even bigger one. Your Golden has to use its nose to locate the treats and must figure out how to get the goodies out. Kong toys work well also. You can put some loose kibble in there for your Golden to locate, or you can soak the kibble, put it inside the Kong and freeze it for the next day. Your Golden will need to figure out how to get the tasty reward out. You can use make-shift pylons any object will do , use Hoola hoops, small jump obstacles like cardboard boxes, stairs, brooms, rolled-up blankets, and whatever you think of. Teach your Golden to run through the obstacle with you. Have your Golden run-around, over, and under the obstacles. Find a hiding space. Someplace where your dog cannot see you, but your Golden should still be able to hear your when you call. Once you find the right spot, say behind a curtain or door, call his name. Your Golden will find you pretty quickly unless you are a great hider , but they love seeking you out and finding you. Another variation is using treats. You can do this activity indoors or, if you have a yard, then outdoors. Use cheese, boiled chicken, apples, or any high-value treat your dog loves. You may have to show them the first few treats, so they get the hang of the game, but they catch on quickly. Bubble Game Cheap, fun, and no training is required. Great for kids as well. Get a bubble blower. Blow bubbles. Your Golden Retriever will chase the bubbles and jump up, snapping at bubbles to break them. Just make sure the bubbles are pet friendly yes, they make bubbles for dogs , and off you go. You can use a PVC pipe, an old fishing rod, or a sturdy stick think hockey stick, eh. Attach a long rope or string, and now add a furry toy, a rag, or a dog toy, and you have a flirt pole. The flirt pole is excellent for physical activity and mental stimulation. Your Golden has to run, jump, and anticipate changes of direction and plan for what will happen next. It also benefits those dogs with a more innate prey drive by stimulating that instinct. The rule is, though, you must let your Golden catch the lure or toy on occasion. It also prevents frustration. Not allowing a dog to catch its toy is teasing and can cause behavioral issues. Once your Golden catches the lure, now you can transition into a game of tug. All handy things for your Golden to learn. And, the teaching moment is all wrapped up nicely in a fun play activity. Just remember, dog training is supposed to be fun, so keep it that way. It can be fun and still accomplish the goal at the same time. The best teachers know how to do both. Or teach your Golden an invisible boundary, so it stays out of the kitchen or stays back from the door. Not only are these complex skills a great way to invigorate the mind, but it teaches skills that benefit both them and you. Activities That Require Classes Obedience Training Formal obedience classes are a wonderful activity and one that I consider essential. It combines socialization, mental stimulation, and training. Your Golden gets to meet new dogs and people, learn basic commands, and do all this in a distracting environment. Obedience classes ensure your Golden gets a great foundation of obedience and manners while simultaneously building and strengthening communication between your Golden and you. You each must learn to work together as a team. Hold up. Are you looking for a good online training program for your Golden Retriever? I recently wrote an article comparing some of the most popular online dog training systems. Canine sports classes are especially suited for dogs with high energy or dogs with very ingrained instinctual drives like herding dogs. Scent Work Scent work training is excellent for dogs. Scent work is also great for fearful and reactive dogs as it teaches them to focus and be confident. Nose work starts by teaching your dog how to seek out treats and toys, kind of like puzzle games and hide and seek. Then it expands and increases in difficulty to entire rooms, outdoor areas, and vehicles. Scent detection is actually a competitive canine activity. If you and your dog have an interest, then competitive events are an option. Doggie DayCare Doggie daycare is great for puppies and older dogs alike. Just like children need to play with other kids their age to get exercise, mental stimulation, and to learn how to socialize — your Golden is no different. So, you get a day to relax or run errands. It also helps teach your Golden Retriever to be away from you, which can reduce separation anxiety. If you work and have your Golden in there every day, then you know your pup is getting exercised along with plenty of social and mental stimulation. This a tired pup — physically and mentally. A shout-out to his best friend Milo for the fun times. Strictly Outdoor Activities Swimming For this one, you need a body of water. Golden Retrievers are bred to retrieve waterfowl from lakes, and their coats are designed for the water. Golden Retrievers are very well adapted to tolerate cold because of their double coats, and they dry off quickly. The result? Goldens are ideally suited to the water and love to swim. Body of water includes lakes or ponds, pools, and even slow-moving rivers or streams. If swimming is done in a pool, be mindful of pool chemicals and chlorine. Give your Golden a good rinse after a pool swim. Did you know that overbathing can be bad for a Golden Retriever? Dock Diving Of course, with this one, you need both a lake and a dock. Once your Golden is comfortable with the water, just run and jump off the dock. Chances are your Golden will follow. Dock diving incorporates swimming plus diving plus fetch all rolled in one. Make sure you put a life jacket on them, though. Kayaking and especially canoeing are easier for your Golden, but paddleboarding will take training for the both of you. These activities can involve swimming too if you decide to take a dip with your Golden sometimes that may be unavoidable. However, the real benefit is mental stimulation new sights, sounds, and smells and the time you spend together. Hiking Hiking is an excellent activity for people and dogs alike. It usually incorporates inclines depending on the terrain and offers a host of other sights and sounds for your dog. Not all trails allow dogs, so check in advance to be sure. And if the trails do allow dogs, then most will require that you keep them leashed. Keeping your Golden on a leash is a good idea anyway since if you lose your dog in a thick brush or a forest, you may never get them back. Also, you want to be mindful of any encounters with small animals like squirrels or porcupines or bigger critters like bears. Just keep them leashed to be safe. Rocky and ungroomed, jagged trails can cause issues with their paws, so be alert to the type of landscape on the hiking path. Make sure to bring water and snacks for you and your dog. Also, throw a small backpack on and take some essentials just in case. Bring a first aid kit along at a minimum. Remove any you find and be thorough. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are not unlike walking or hiking in that it gets your Golden Retriever outdoors and trotting beside you. Usually, groomed trails or shallow snow is best, or your Golden may have difficulty navigating itself through the snow. Bike Riding Biking can be an excellent exercise for you and your dog if you have a well-behaved and well-trained Golden. You want your dog to trot beside the bike, which means you need to keep the speed reasonable. It would be best if you had excellent control of your dog, so training your Golden gradually with the bike beforehand is a good idea. You should also wear a helmet. Be very mindful of temperature in the summer; your Golden can overheat quickly. Bring water and snacks for your dog. If your Golden falls behind, then it may be tiring. Turn around and walk your Golden back home. Yes, you can over-exercise a Golden Retriever. Walking During walks, your dog is exposed to the world outside his home. He gets to experience various sights, sounds, smells, and environments, which mentally engage him. Walking is the foundational exercise for all puppies and dogs, which is no different for Golden Retrievers. Walking should be the staple exercise for your dog throughout most of its life. Dogs love to walk, and walking helps bond your dog to you. You may find your dog wants to stop frequently and check things out. A solution is to mix up your walking sessions. One that focuses on fast walking for exercise and another where your Golden gets time to smell and investigate his environment. One is more physical, the other more mental. Both are social. Running Running is a great cardio workout for both humans and dogs. However, refrain from running with your Golden before 14 to 18 months of age due to developing joints, muscles, and bones and the impact of running on those. And be sure to get a thumbs up from your vet first. Every so often, stop and ask your Golden to sit or change directions and vary the terrain. Keep it fun and your dog guessing. If running in the summer, be cautious of not overheating your Golden, so stick to cooler mornings or evenings and bring water for the both of you. The article details the age they can start, how much they can run, how fast and how far, and much more. Check it out here: Need a Running Partner? How About Your Golden Retriever? Playtime is a perfect opportunity for you and your dog to bond. Luckily, there are several fun games that you can play with a Golden Retriever! As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to keep your pet active and entertained. Learning some of a Golden Retrievers favorite games will create many memorable moments for you and your furry friend. Read on and learn more about the games that Golden Retrievers like to play! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! There are two ways to play this game. One way is where you hide, and your dog looks for you. Once they find you, make sure you praise and encourage them to do it again. Another way is to hide treats in interesting places and ask your dog to look for them. Since Golden Retrievers love treats, and they will work hard to ensure that they get them. The challenge of looking for the treats uses up some of the dogs excess energy, gives them a chance to exercise their body, and provides the mental stimulation a Golden needs. You can also play a version of hide and seek where you hide a dog treat in a puzzle toy like this one by Outward Hound on Amazon. Your Golden Retriever has to figure out how to get to the treat. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Note: Play Hide and Seek with treats in moderation since giving them too many extra treats will end up causing more harm than good. You can also try playing hide and seek with your dogs favorite toy instead. The game is fun, helps keep your dog active, and is a good way to teach them manners. This is a rope made of special material that will not hurt their teeth or have any harmful chemicals. Try the Mammoth Tug Rope found on Amazon. When playing tug of war, always remember that the game ends when the dog touches your hand with his mouth, so you should teach them this rule from the beginning. This helps ensure that the game remains safe since some dogs can get carried away when playing tug of war. Alternatively, a safer and very fun to watch way to play tug of war with your pooch is to set up a bungee out in the yard where your Golden Retriever can play the game all by himself. Watch how excited these two Goldens are to play with their new tug of war bungee. Like humans, dogs enjoy spending time in the water, especially on a hot afternoon. When teaching, use a doggy life jacket Amazon for safety. After your dog has learned how to swim, you can then have fun playing other Water Games, such as dock diving or swim racing. You can also bring along some of their toys and play a game of fetch in the water. You can play this game both indoors and outdoors. Also ensure that your Golden Retriever is running on a carpet. Otherwise, they are at risk of slipping and hurting themselves when running to get the toy, especially if the floor is slippery. For an outdoor game of fetch, the bouncier the dog toy the better. A Jolly Ball is a ball and a rope combined. This is a durable rubber toy that really bounces! The inside is hollow so it can be filled with peanut butter or dog treats for an added surprise. Clean Up Teaching Your Golden to Clean Up As its name suggests, Cleanup is where your dog will collect the toys that have scattered on the floor while you were playing. Imagine that! Though this may take time for them to get, Golden Retrievers are smart and will eventually be in a position to pickup and put away anything you ask him to. Pretty cool! You can improvise with items such as blankets, old furniture, or wrapping paper tubs, creating your own obstacle course. Use treats to lead your dog through it. This is a fun and an ideal exercise for your dog, especially if you are trying to help them lose weight. Here is a YouTube video to guide you on how to play some agility games: How to play games with agility training. Is it a sport or a game? To ensure safety in the game, make your Golden Retriever sits downstairs while you throw the treat onto the top landing. When your dog is coming downstairs, encourage them to run slowly to reduce the risk of injuries. Under, Over, and Through Golden Retriever Obstacle Course Teaching your dog to go under, over, and through objects is not only a good brain game, it is also good exercise for them. Use an item such as a chair and teach them to crawl under the legs of the chair as a response to the command you give them. You are also likely to bond better with your dog when they see you joining them. You can set up all sorts of obstacles to climb over, go around, and crawl under using items in your home. Cardio Twist Golden Retriever Slalom Game This game is often played in dog competitions, but you can play it at home as well. Set up poles using household items such as chairs or stools and have your dog weave between them. If you have other people in the game, they can also serve as poles. Weave between the poles and instruct your dog to follow you at your pace. Change your pace from fast to slow from time to time. Cardio twist is not only a great workout for you and your dog but it also helps them learn coordination. Golden Retriever slalom. You can also use pillows, chairs, people, anything really. Since dogs have a powerful sense of smell, you can make a game out of it. The follow your nose game is similar to hide-and-seek. You play it by hiding something yummy and smelly in a scent bag and instruct your Golden Retriever to look for it. Avoid hiding the bag in an obvious place. Hide it somewhere where your dog will have to put in the effort to get it, so as to challenge and stimulate them. This dog game is best played outdoors since there are many hiding spots, including underground. Golden Retrievers, young and old, love to chase bubbles out in the yard. You and your dog can have hours of fun with this one without requiring much effort on your part. An old dog will enjoy this game as much as a young dog will! This Golden Retriever loves her bubbles! Conclusion It is impossible to exhaust the list of games to play with your Golden Retriever. But whenever you have a chance, entertain and bond with them by joining them in the games listed above. And remember that safety comes first, so always ensure that your playing area is safe to avoid any risk of injuries for you and your Golden Retriever. The Three Cup Game 1. As golden retriever likes to chase you can make your own chase toy by attaching a toy to the end of a rope and tying it onto a stick you can wave around for your dog to chase. You can also make your own puzzle toy with a muffin tin, some tennis balls and a few treats. Stairway dash If you have a stairway, make it a game to run up it and burn some serious energy. To get the most exercise from this game with the least risk to your dog's joints, start at the bottom of the stairs. Put your retriever in a sit-stay and throw the toy up to the top landing. Make it more exciting by keeping your dog in a stay while creating a buildup, such as saying "Reeady…. Let your dog come back down the stairs at his own pace, encouraging a slower return since it's the downhill climb that risks injury. After 10 or so repetitions of this, golden retriever will be totally tuckered out. Agility Training Golden retrievers tend to enjoy doing dog agility training and are a good way to keep your pooch occupied in every way possible, both their body and mind. And the best part is this can be done in your backyard. Set up items like tables and hula hoops and get your retriever to go around, under, or over them. You can even work on balancing on top of smaller items. It helps you to build a bond with your golden as you work together towards a common goal. Many dogs can be trained to get comfortable on a treadmill. Start off by simply having them in the same room as the machine while it is on so they can get used to the sounds and sights. You can then turn off the treadmill, get them to stand on it, and give them a treat. After they seem comfortable, turn it on at a very low speed and encourage them to stay on with treats. If they have problems getting used to it, try standing in the front of the treadmill and giving them the occasional treat for motivation. Remember to always supervise your dog when they are on a treadmill and never tie them to it. Hiding Treats All dogs love treats and you can take advantage of this to give your golden retriever some exercise. Take some of their favorite treats and hide them around your home in various places. Consider putting them underneath rugs, behind chairs, under tables, or behind doors. Your dog is likely to get exhausted looking for the treats and get a great workout in the process. Just remember to restrict yourself to a reasonable number of treats. Giving them too many can make them sick or defeat the point of exercising by leading to weight gain. Under, over and through Training your dog to perform new tricks like high-fives or lying down is great mental exercise. However, training them to do tricks that require physical skill exercises both mind and body, making teaching certain tricks perfect for pooping out the pooch when inside on a rainy day. One of the things you can do with your dog to get started is training him to go under, over and through objects. Set up an item like a kitchen chair, a step stool, or some other sturdy object on legs. Next, teach your dog how to crawl under the object and stay there, crawl all the way through the object, walk around the object, and how to jump over it entirely. The Three Cup Game Another great nose work starter game. Get out 3 cups and line them up in a row in front of your dog. To start put a treat under one of the cups while your dog is watching, give him the OK to show you which one is the right cup. Once your dog seems to get the hang of it you can make it more challenging by mixing the cups around after you place the treat. More Training. Read articles about:Dog Activities 5 Games to Play With Your Dog One of the best parts of being a dog owner is finding fun and constructive games for dogs. Engaging in physically and mentally stimulating exercise with your dog is a great way to keep them healthy. It also strengthens your bond. All you need is a yard, park or field, a tennis ball or frisbee and an enthusiastic dog to have some fun. Fetch is an excellent game for energetic dogs. It provides plenty of physical exercise while helping them fulfill their instinct to run. It can also keep your dog mentally engaged and challenged by trying different objects for him to run after. For example, a frisbee may be a bit trickier to catch yet more fun to snag in midair. Try adjusting the height, distance and direction of your throws to keep your dog interested. Tug of War Another classic game most dogs love is playing tug of war. Great for both indoor or outdoor play, tug of war is fun and engaging for your dog. Plus, all that pulling and tugging is a good source of physical exercise. Only pull gently for a few seconds at a time. If they seem too little, explore other play activities. Try using a rope, or a dog toy made from soft rubber. If your dog has a history of back and neck injuries, try another activity until talking with your veterinarian. This dog enrichment game is a fun way for them to exercise their problem-solving skills. This game uses a flirt pole. A flirt pole is a long pole or stick with a rope attached to one end. You can either purchase a flirt pole or make one with a little bit of DIY. Tie a toy to the rope of the flirt pole and drag it slowly, occasionally stopping as your dog gets ready to pounce. Agility training is the ultimate mental and physical stimulation for dogs. It will help your dog burn off excess energy and help tire them out for a long nap or a restful night of sleep. Set up an obstacle course in a yard or park with objects from around the house. You can use boxes to jump over, cones for them to weave between and anything else that comes to mind. If you have a hula hoop, teach them to jump through it and, of course, reward them with treats as they make progress. Avoid Overstimulation There are lots of games to play with dogs both inside and outside. This leaves your dog excited for their next play session rather than exhausted and discouraged. Find out more tips and insights on dog ownership from our experts on our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube Channel as I am going to be showing you some of the things I use to build a small course in my tiny yard. I will also show you how I teach my 6-month-old Lab to navigate it. Biking Biking is an all-out endurance effort for your dog. I like biking with my dog because it ramps up his cardiovascular response and gives him a great workout without killing me. Be careful with these because you will have a problem if you have a pound Lab tied to your bike and that dog decides to take after a cat. Running This is another oldie but a goodie when it comes to exercising your dog. You might not consider this a game, but if you change up your route enough, your dog will love the change in scenery. More important than what your dog sees is what he will smell. Keep in mind that your dog can run much farther than you can. So, unless you are training for a marathon, a typical run might not be enough exercise for your Retriever. Everyone gets stuck in traffic or caught in a last-minute meeting at the end of the day. These treats can be great at the last minute or, with a little preparation, they can be even better. If something unexpected comes up and you cannot get to your planned activity with your dog, then fill one of these with treats and let your dog wrestle with it for a while. Something sticky inside like peanut butter will really force your Lab or Golden to work even harder. You want the food to just be on the point of soggy without turning into mush. Now, fill the KONG treat with your soggy food and freeze it. When you get home, pull out the treat and set it out for your dog. He will work on that treat for 20 to 30 minutes trying to get the frozen food out. Adventure Hikes When you take your dog to a new field you will watch him cover at least 4 times the territory that you do sniffing and marking and learning. So, if you take a nice 1-mile-hike in a new field, your dog will likely cover 3 to 4 miles. In addition to the great physical workout, your Retriever will also be using his mind trying to figure out what he is smelling. Your dog will access long-term memory banks to see if he has ever smelled these things before. Bubbles, Bubbles, and More Bubbles Have you seen these bubble guns? They make my kids go bonkers—mostly the 2-year-old and the 5-year-old. Well, your dog is likely to enjoy chasing these wisps on the wind just as much as your children. My daughter and Odin playing with the bubble maker Get one of these guns and set yourself on one side of the yard hopefully with a crosswind and then fire away. Your Retriever will chase the bubbles and then wonder where it went after chomping down. This is almost always good for a couple of Instagram or Snap Chat posts. To make one of these great tools, get a 5-foot stick or an old fishing pole and tie a rope to the end of it. Hold the toy still on the ground until your dog approaches it. Just before he launches himself for the toy, pull it out of his reach. This will really rev him up. When he gets closer, move it again. After a couple of times, you will probably see your dog go into stealth mode. Crouching and creeping. Odin and me, just playing with a flirt pole that I made out of the Christmas light stick. His mind is going to be racing with ways to get this silly toy. It is an excellent game for both physical and mental stimulation. I like this game because it does not require a lot of me physically. For the most part, I can stand in one place and give my dog a real mental puzzle. Once your dog has those commands down pat, then you are ready to play. It also helps if your dog knows some hand signals for those commands as well. Take your dog to one side of your yard and put him in a sitting position. Then walk 10 or 15 yards away, but make sure your dog can still see you. Hold your arms out wide to your pup. If he is familiar with the hand signal, he should run towards you. Now, in the middle of his run, hold up the hand and give him the STAY command. Hopefully, your Retriever stops in his tracks. Give him the hand signal or the voice command SIT. Repeat the process until your dog reaches you. You should have some kind of a treat in your pocket to reward him for being so obedient and focused. Note: You might need to teach this activity in pieces and start with shorter distances. The mental side of this activity is fantastic. Your dog will have to focus intently on you and your commands. It will require serious self-control and it is important that every dog practice self-control on a regular basis. I doubt the chef in your house is going to want you using the one out of the cupboards. You also want several tennis balls and a smelling treat for your dog. Put the treat in one of the muffin tins and then cover it with a tennis ball. Put several more tennis balls in the other muffin places. This is another one of those activities that will use the mental aspect more so than the physical. It is a great option when you are forced indoors with weather that is either too hot or too cold. Puzzle Games If you are looking to purchase something already to engage your dog, think about one of the following puzzle games from Amazon or Chewy.

Puppy pads Create a Schedule Golden Retriever pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. It can even grow louder as they age. Moderate Training Golden Retrievers responds well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Auntie Sharon passing out treats! Sarah .We have always had goldens and wondered about getting on your list. Our vet. Eeg, recommended you as a great breeder. How do I apply to be listed? Thanks,Terry Anna .Our family in maryland is looking for a golden puppy. Alaine .I wont have any pups until late spring-going home later in the summer. Good luck in your search. I have nothing available right now. Alaine jennifer .Julie Curbeam .BC you've said they've homes, I wont be looking here anymore for msgs. After finally going through my list of homes for pups I will not have any available. I have many repeat owners and they take priority. Sorry Julie Curbeam .It would Make me so Happy to hear from you. Thank you Alaine Julie Curbeam .You replied with your plan. IF I've a chance for a pup from current litter, when do you share Good News? Will you be having any puppies? Please keep me in mind for the future litter s. Ideally, I would like a female puppy. Do you have a litter currently or plans for one? I will be breeding both Sera and Gets shortly. More info. Will be posted soon. Cheryl Lubbers .Do you have any? Rachel Lucier .Do you have any upcoming liters? Alex Barton .Such a cute, sweet, smart girl. Anne Lane .We have an 11 year old female from Cindy Williamson. Looking for a girl puppy to add to our home. Love these dogs. Please let me know if you have any avail. Kathleen Becker .We are in search of a boy golden. We previously had a Lycinan golden that we lost inJanuary. Very active home with three teens. I only had two boys and they were spoken for immediately! Cindy might have a boy. Good luck. Paul Gurny .Currently, I have 2 Goldens from Charms Goldens and am seeking one for my daughter. I saw your message and then forgot all about it. Let me know if you are still looking. Judy Roppelt .I look forward to hearing from you. We just lost our boy of 12 years. Cindy Williamson gave me your name. Please give me your email address. I remember your first boy. I bred a girl will take names when I know she is pregnant. Use my email as I can only write so many words here. Tracy Conner .Can you let me know when you have any puppies available? If you would like to contact me after I post that, it would be great. Thanks Marjorie Hollis .My husband and I want a male golden to complete our family. We had a golden in the past and he was wonderful. Please let me know when you have puppies! I just bred Sera. When I know she is pregnant I will start talking to people about available puppies. Please check back on my website. Thanks Alaine .I am breeding Sera this week and wont start taking names until pregnancy is confirmed. We take pride in the quality we breed. Our English Cream Golden Retriever puppies are loving, happy, and easygoing playmates, who not only create great memories but also promote emotional and physical development. Dahlia's Goldens is a unique Golden Retriever Farm with one primary focus: truly healthy dogs in every aspect. If you're interested in this dog, please contact the foster directly:Marilyn at » Read more ». Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .They also still come with a day health guarantee. Meet Fizz, a happy Golden Retriever puppy that is being family raised and has been socialized with children. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in Maryland. Shor'Line Golden Retrievers. Browse these Goldendoodle rescues and shelters below. AKC Golden Retriever pups available. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter. Please feel free to call or submit your questions via the form on this page. He is on the calmer side and still loves to nap. PuppySpot is a company dedicated to. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. They then become accustomed to outside potty training. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale. On average, they are pounds, but the weights. Goldens are very loyal, and need a whole lot of time to run around and play. From building self-esteem to developing empathy and responsibility, our companion puppies have many positive impacts on children. Please contact the breeders below to find Golden. Diane has a lot of experience with dogs; showing, breeding, training and. Working with our AKC Marketplace breeder has been amazing! A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. I am about 21 lbs and just a bit over 3 months old. Please keep in mind that we match dogs with the most suitable families on an ongoing basis, so some dogs shown may already have a prospective match, and some dogs may not reach the website. I am a Lab mix! Sidenote - when I came into » Read more ». Goldens are merry companions that act like puppies well into adulthood. Pictures, pedigrees, and show news. These Golden Retrievers are available for adoption close to Middletown, Delaware. Feel free to email or call us at if you have any questions, or are interested in a puppy from one of our upcoming litters. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Delaware, AnimalsSale. Golden Retriever Breeders in Delaware. Devoted, smart, and friendly, these eager-to-please double-coated gundogs excel in hunting, obedience, field trials, and guiding the blind. Remember, cheaper doesn't mean better, or even comparable! You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral. We believe healthy, happy dogs produce healthy, happy puppies. Socialized and ready for their forever homes in time for the Holidays. Golden Labrador Puppies For Sale. 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. Golden Retrievers are one of the dog. Golden Retriever For Sale in Delaware .Golden Retriever Puppies For Sale. This dog is located in Newark,DE. Number of Adoptions in April: 29! And, Fizz can be registered with the AKC. We strive for excellence by breeding healthy, loving puppies with sound temperaments. We are breeders of calm, intelligent, and healthy Golden Retrievers which make great companions! Find Golden Retriever puppies for sale. We are a team of family oriented people who are driven to help people find a loving companion for the family. Champion Line Golden Retriever Puppies. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Grooming: Basic brushing and combing is a must to keep your dog neat and. Golden Retriever Puppies Delaware .Both males and females available. No puppies where found matching. Sunshine Hill Goldens — Quality Multi. Please Call or message us, text to if you would like to inquire about purchasing one of these amazing AKC Golden Retriever puppies. We have a few wonderful Mixed Golden Retriever Puppies for sale. We currently only breed with European lines. Please start the application process now so that you can be on a waiting list for when GRIN does have younger dogs available. We have found that the temperament and health of the European or "English Cream" Golden Retrievers are superior to the American lines. If interested in our puppies please contact me by call or text at .Dahlia is an amazing retriever with a temperament that will melt your heart! She is approximately 68lbs and loves adults and children. Adopt Golden Retriever Dogs in Delaware. Find a Puppy Groomers Find the right local groomer for your dog's. They have had first vaccines, dewormed and passed their vet check View. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale. All of our Golden Retriever Puppies are thoroughly evaluated by our veterinarian and come with a. The breeder is responsible for the content of this advertisement. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array of adoptive and educational support for the adopters and broader community. Because we are small scale, our puppies are extremely well-socialized. Please keep in mind that we match dogs with the. Sheltie Mix Puppies for Sale. Take a look at our available breeds. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in Delaware. Liberty Run Golden Retrievers. There are often many great Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retrievers for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in Delaware. Breeder Name: stephanie schrock. All of our Golden Retriever Puppies are thoroughly evaluated by our veterinarian and come with a two-year genetic health guarantee. About Our Program. Goldens are athletes and must be kept trim their entire lives. We now offer shipping in the USA and Canada! Feel free to email or call us at if you have any questions, or are. For anyone who is looking for a puppy or just wanting to research breeds, I would recommend AKC Marketplace. They began as a mix of Retrievers, Spaniels, and Red Setter. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Puppy Connector makes it easy to connect with real time puppy owners and breeders. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Goldendoodle puppies in Georgetown, Delaware. Adult bitches should weigh pounds; males, pounds. This puppy is no longer available. We currently have two adorable male Auburn Color Golden Retriever puppies available! You can see recent photos and a video of him by clicking HERE. Available Mini Golden Retrievers. Our breeder answered all our questions and was very accommodating, and we now have our first fast-growing, lovable Spinone in our home. Goldheart Golden Retriever Rescue. Golden Retrievers are among America's most popular breeds. We have pet puppies available to reserve in future litters- email us for more information. Golden Retrievers for Sale in Dover, Delaware. Golden Retriever Puppies In Maryland. Greenfield Puppies was founded in and has been helping people find their ideal puppy ever since. His coat is a beautiful deep 0. Our puppies are whelped and raised in our house for the first three weeks, where they are well socialized. We are only 15 minutes away from Pennsylvania and West Virginia. They will weigh around 40lbs full grown. About Our Program Because we are small scale, our puppies are extremely well-socialized. Golden Retriever Puppies Delaware. Golden Retriever mix. Find a Golden Retriever for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near Delaware. New England's premiere breeders of American and European golden retriever puppies. They are not conditioned to do their business in the home. Find Labrador Retriever dogs and puppies from Delaware breeders. We are a small family breeder and are passionate about Goldens. An English Cream Golden Retriever generally lives for years on average. We have puppies! English Golden RetrieversBoth parents are health tested, negative for.

This article covers everything you need to know as a german shepherd owner about GSD puppies and their sleep schedule. German Shepherd puppies sleep 15 — 20 hours a day. Yes, they sleep a lot. The bodies of GSD puppies go through a cycle of development in the first 12 months of being born, and hence the long nap time. Of course, understanding your puppies sleep schedule is crucial to taking good care of it. So that your puppy can grow healthy, and happy. In the beginning, the schedule is absolutely random. Once you have the schedule figured out, you can work around it to make things easier for yourself. When you first bring your puppy home, it might confuse you with the odd sleeping hours. Your pup might wake you up during the middle of the night, for bathroom breaks. A lot of german shepherd dog owners even get woken up 2 or 3 times. But, after a few weeks, your german shepherd puppy will get used to the schedule and not wake you up at night at all. Here are the causes behind the lengthy nap schedule of GSD puppies. Some are natural, while others can stir up concern for the owner. And a lot of this growth occurs during nap time. Most sources recommend 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age. So a 20 minute exercise session should be good for your 4 month old gsd puppy. However, the problem might be solved just by doing these. While others may prefer feeding them a home made diet. Raw diets are also becoming popular. It can cause problems later on. Your best bet is to check in with your vet, and ask for diet recommendations. So how much exercise should they do regularly? According to most of the sources, a 5 minute long walk at a time for every month of age should suffice. This means that if the puppy is 2 months old, then the exercise routine should be a 10 minute walk at a time. Here are the pointers that indicate when to stop exercising. Your puppy slows down. Your puppy starts panting. Your puppy starts laying on the ground. Age also plays a role in the intensity of workouts. Do not make it run excessively. Do not make it exercise on hard surfaces like sidewalks. Grass is the best area for your GSD puppy to exercise. Do not let it jump from the couch, furniture, or obstacles. Light fetch is also fine, after a few weeks. So you have to make sure that their brain stays engaged in their waking hours. Get your puppy their favourite toys. Take time training your puppy. Play a variety of games with your puppy. Get your puppy contraption toys that make the puppy do something with their paws, or sense of smell, instead of static toys. Give your puppy small healthy treats once they complete a task. Take Your Pup to the Vet This is the first option you should be considering if your puppy is sleeping too much or too less. Lack of sleep may cause your German Shepherd puppy to become aggressive , or even worse, not grow healthy. Give it a quiet and comfortable room to sleep. Let the puppy sleep whenever it wants or as much as it wants. No interruptions, just let it have its much deserved peace and quiet. Make Sure Your Puppy Has Comfortable Environment To Sleep You may not want your puppy to sleep on the bed, or the couch, due to various reasons like danger of falling or maybe hair fall. Buying a small dog bed or crate for your puppy is ideal. Make sure the crate or bed has soft material for your puppy to sleep. German shepherds are hardy animals. Just make sure their bed is soft and comfortable. Neither too hot nor too cold. Refrain your puppy from going into direct sunlight. Keep it in cool or shady areas. Make sure it has access to cool to cold water. Similarly, anything below 40 degree Fahrenheit or even 50 degree Fahrenheit is too cold for the puppy. If winter in your location hits hard, install heaters or a central heating system. Prepare cozy blankets for your puppy. Make sure your puppy is sleeping comfortably 15 — 20 hours a day. Have fun with your cute little puppy! 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. Feed your GSD puppy a nice healthy dinner along with some fresh water to drink. Make him comfortable with a nice warm blanket and a chew toy. I know it seems like a lot and you may not have time every day to follow this type of sleep schedule. This is best case scenario. Adjust accordingly based on your lifestyle. Encourage him to rest if he seems tired. If you notice him waking up from a nap, take him outside immediately to go potty. Make sure he has a quiet place to sleep undisturbed and away from the action, especially if you have children. Teach him to sleep in his crate when you can. You can also put a little dog bed in another room for peace and refuge. Routine is key for creating sleep patterns. Your puppy will learn to go to bed when you do. Crate your puppy preferably using an adjustable partition leaving him just enough room to stand up and turn around. This will help him sleep and lessen the chance of him going potty at night. Keep him crated in your room if need be. Being close to you may help him sleep at night. Make his crate nice and cozy with a warm blanket or two on the bottom. Forget the bed as he will probably destroy it. Instead give him a couple of his favorite chew toys. Prepare for your puppy to wake up sometimes throughout the night. There is a reason puppies sleep most of the day away. The body and brain use this downtime to develop and grow. This includes their central nervous system and immune system which they need to fight off sickness and disease. Similar to humans, a lack of sleep can lead to a weakened immune system which means they are more prone to sickness or disease. German Shepherds grow at a rapid pace for the first year of their life. This means that sleep is even more crucial during this time period. Fun Fact: Dogs dream just like humans. In Closing: Sleep is vital for your German Shepherd puppy so make sure they are getting enough. There may be some sleepless nights ahead of you, especially if the crate is in your bedroom. But things will get easier the more they mature. Remember as they grow and get older, the amount of sleep they require will decline. Once they are a full-grown adult, they will sleep for about 12 to 14 hours. Stick to a consistent schedule and make sure they have a quiet place to retreat. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you own a German Shepherd puppy? If so, what is their sleep schedule? Do you have any tips for potential owners that may help? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. As mentioned, German Shepherd puppies have short bursts of energy followed by long, restful naps. When playing or on a walk, it may seem like your puppy has a limitless store of excitement. Once they wear out, however, they tend to fall into a deep sleep—and may even snore! On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep between 15 and 20 hours each day. During growth periods, they may only get up to eat or go for a walk. Once fully grown, a German Shepherd will sleep around 12 or 14 hours a day. German Shepherds will take naps throughout the day, then sleep while their human sleeps for 6 or 8 hours. You can ensure your German Shepherd gets adequate exercise by taking it for long walks or hikes, playing fetch, or engaging it with agility workouts and puzzle toys. German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and need mental and physical stimulation for health and happiness. German Shepherds are naturally alert and protective , making them ideal for farm, police, military, and guard work. If you live in a busy area, you may want to provide your German Shepherd with a dark, quiet room to sleep in. If you use a crate or kennel, you can drape a blanket over it to shut out some light and sound for restful sleep. This is especially helpful with young puppies that may experience separation anxiety. Cars, buzzing insects, appliances, televisions, and cell phones can all make noises that put your dog on alert. German Shepherds usually live between 9 and 13 years. During this stage, your German Shepherd may sleep a bit more than the expected 12 or 14 hours a day, just like an older human. Along with the change in sleep patterns, your senior German Shepherd may show some graying around the eyes and muzzle, less interest in playing, and less energy for walks and hikes. If your German Shepherd is sleeping more than 14 hours as an adult, should you be worried? In some cases, longer sleep or more frequent sleep could indicate that your dog is experiencing a minor illness. If your German Shepherd is sleeping excessively for several weeks, however, you may want to take it to the vet for a checkup. Conditions like diabetes , hypothyroidism , Lyme disease , and arthritis can lead to increased sleep and may require treatment. Related Reads:. Final Thoughts When your German Shepherd is a young puppy, it needs a lot of sleep to get enough energy for physical and mental growth. When it is awake, it will be more active, exploring new things and experiencing new sensations after a good, comfortable, and secure sleep. The time of German Shepherd sleep routines varies depending on the age. When it is a puppy, it needs hours, but as an adult, your doggy may sleep for hours per day and feel great. The Shepherd deprived of good sleep can develop behavioral disorders and get sick easier. The most commonly asked questions about the German Shepherd puppy sleep schedule relate to its early age. Your puppy needs about 18 hours of sleep per day, and some young doggies may even need a bit more. So, hours per hour period is considered a norm. As your furry friend gets older, the sleeping time reduces. Your 4-month-old puppy may even sleep 11 hours per day and feel perfect. Meanwhile, adult dogs sleep for hours per hour period. You need to keep in mind that your pup will not sleep the whole night before its 6-month mark soundly. The reasons are missing the littermates and mother and feeling insecure surrounded by new smells and noises. However, the most important reason is the small size of its bladder that does not allow it to retain from potty for such a long time. So, it may start whining and crying if it wants to go potty. The latter issue is vital for potty training — you need to go out to potty times per night before your doggy reaches months old to avoid accidents. You may even need to wake up your puppy at night to do without unexpected occasions. Your little pup may also start crying at night for other reasons, for example, if it is scared or feels lonely or hungry. You can try to help it sleep better in several ways. First of all, ensure that your pet is tired enough before going to bed. Take it out for 5 minutes to walk during its first month and add the next 5 minutes for every month of its life. For example, your 4-month-old puppy can walk for 20 minutes. If your puppy is very young, let it sleep in your room when you first get it home. Put the crate beside your bed to comfort it easily during the night. You also need to offer your new pet familiar objects, for example, clothes or toys with the scent of its previous home. Arrange a comfortable sleeping place equipped with blankets, stuffed toys, and snacks. You may even play soothing music during bedtime, eliminating anxiety and preventing whining. Classical music is a good choice for this purpose. Comfortable bedding is essential. The space should not be large because they may attempt to do their business right where they are sleeping if they find a vacant spot. However, move the crate out of your bed when it gets older. Do it gradually, moving it farther and farther every night. Then, the time will come to take it away from your bedroom, and your puppy will feel comfortable with it. The difference between human and dog sleep cycles is dramatic. They are much shorter in dogs. Dogs have only two REM cycles at a time. They last 6 minutes. Dogs are polyphasic sleepers because they can also go to bed in the daytime. People are monophasic, sleeping hours at night. That is why while people spend their daytime working and alert, dogs need about 5 hours of rest per day. They do not necessarily sleep fast during this time. There has been a discussion on whether dogs can dream. Yes, dreaming can occur during the REM phase. Puppies may dream even more than adult dogs because they sleep more and their nervous system is not stable at all. So, they may dream about their daily activities, food, playing with you, and other things that are processed in their brain. When you notice that your pup moves its limbs as if running or murmurs something while sleeping, it is evidence of its dreaming. What do they mean? The most widely observed position is sleeping on the back. The reasons for this position are the following: Your pet feels entirely comfortable. This position provides complete relaxation. The pup feels safe and protected. Your dog trusts you if it exposes its vulnerable stomach to the outer world. It does not expect attacks from any enemies or predators. That is why canines rarely sleep on their backs in the wild. Your doggy wants to express submission. It does not mean challenging your authority or confronting other animals in the house. The German Shepherd may just want to feel colder. Its thick plush coat, especially if it is long-haired, does not allow it to cool down easily, so it lays on its back to let the air circulate around its body, over the belly, and paws. In this case, you may notice your dog lying on its back on the cold tile or even near the open window. German Shepherds also sleep in many other positions. The most popular of them include the following: Close to their owner. It is pretty pleasing when your doggy sleeps by your bed or is somehow close to you. Shepherds like to feel a part of a pack, so if they sleep like that, they feel more secure. Tightly curled up. This position allows a German Shepherd to maintain the heat efficiently. These dogs usually sleep like that in cold weather or if they feel something threatening to protect their neck and stomach against unexpected attacks. With the tail on their nose. A German Shepherd has a very sensitive nose, and it wants to protect it from rain, snow, or wind. It happens when your dog sleeps outdoors, especially in winter. On the side. This position allows the doggy to extend its muscles and joint as much as possible. It also means that the Shepherd feels comfortable and confident in this environment and does not expect any enemies or unwanted encounters. This position can also be observed if they sleep next to another animal — a cat or a dog — they consider their friends. On the belly. If your doggy feels comfortable, this position is uncommon. Moreover, it is neither comfortable nor relaxing. However, it can easily and quickly stand up and jump or run from it if it is needed. They mostly depend on their personality. The question of sleeping with your German Shepherd puppy is essential for many dog owners. The common advice is not to do that during the first months of your pup in your home. Instead, you can put its dog bed or crate next to your bed to soothe it quickly if it feels uncomfortable or scared. Moreover, your young doggy may have accidents at night, and you need to potty train it first. However, when your dog is an adult, you can do it, and it will bring a lot of positive moments to both of you. When your doggy is well-behaved and trained properly, you may get a lot of benefits from sleeping with it. They are the following: you will increase your comfort and security; your overall health condition can improve; the risk of sudden death will decrease; the cholesterol and triglyceride levels will go down; the blood pressure will become lower; this kind of sleeping can promote creativity; it will regulate your heartbeat rates; your memory will improve; you will wake up in a great mood due to the flow of oxytocin; you will feel absolutely protected and safe; the furry and cuddly friend will make you feel cozy and comfortable; the immunity will boost. Of course, close and continuous contact with animals can provoke allergic reactions. However, recent research shows that children who sleep with their pets are less likely to develop any allergies when they grow up. You may wonder why your doggy sleeps so much or has just changed its sleeping habits dramatically. Generally, an adult German Shepherd sleeps hours per day, but puppies and senior dogs sleep longer, which is normal. You can consider different causes if your pup sleeps too much and decide what you can do after talking to your vet. Your doggy needs this time to develop or restore its brain, central nervous system, immune system, and muscles. It uses so much energy during the day that it needs to compensate for it while sleeping. However, if your grown-up German Shepherd sleeps more than 14 hours and is apathetic all the other time, you may start to be concerned and take your pup to the vet. Excess heat. German Shepherds are bred to feel comfortable in colder environments. That is why they have double-layered coats. When the weather is very hot, they become sleepy to cool down. Just give it access to shade and cool areas and provide it with good amounts of water during the day. Never let it stay in direct sunlight. Your pup does not feel well. If your German Shepherd started sleeping more for no reason, it might be a sign of some health issues. So, you need to have it checked by the vet immediately. Your doggy is bored. German Shepherds are working dogs with a lot of energy and drive. You should exercise your pet a lot. At least one hour of intense exercise per day is vital. However, be careful not to overexercise your pup when it is little. Add 5 minutes of walking and training per every month of its age, or you can damage its bones and joints. Pick out an appropriate diet. Poor diet may be a cause of extensive sleeping. Talk to your vet to choose the diet your Shepherd needs, or opt for one meant specifically for German Shepherds. Age is a crucial factor. You know now that little puppies need a lot of sleep, and it is normal when your fluffy cub sleeps hours per day. The same is applicable to senior dogs. Older animals need more sleep to restore their muscles and brain activity. Moreover, they get tired easily and need a lot of rest. To make your pup sleep according to its age and environment, you may need to make some changes and deal with different factors. Consider the weather conditions too. If your pup sleeps more when it is cold or hot outside, it is also a normal reaction to temperature changes. If it gets to sleep immediately after feeding , you may need to adjust the diet a bit. If not, make some changes. Always check whether it has constant access to fresh water. Underhydration can be one of the reasons for a long sleep. Of course, when you notice abrupt changes, you must take your pet to the veterinarian. Long sleeping time may be the first sign of some unpleasant health disorders. Little puppies can sleep hours per day, while adult dogs usually need hours of sleep round-the-clock. If your German Shepherd starts sleeping too much, it may be a sign of a minor illness. The excess sleeping may also be a result of heat, boredom, or a poor diet. Older German Shepherds can also start sleeping a lot. Why does my German Shepherd sleep on its back? When your dog sleeps on its back, it always looks cute. The reasons for it can be different, but the main one is that it feels comfortable and absolutely trusts you. It can also show submission in this way, or it is too hot, and your doggy wants to cool down. Why is my German Shepherd breathing so fast while sleeping? Breathing faster means that your doggy is in its REM phase of sleep, which is accompanied by a high amount of brain activity. So, your pup needs more energy and starts breathing faster to get an additional amount of oxygen for the brain. Breathing fast helps it transfer this oxygen from the lungs to the bloodstream, converting it into energy. How many hours does a German Shepherd sleep? The number of hours your German Shepherd pup can sleep is pretty individual. There are no strict standards. Little puppies sleep hours daily, while adult dogs reduce this number to .Senior dogs can sleep more — hours is normal. Ill doggies can sleep most time because sleeping helps them recover. Final Thoughts Remember that comfortable and safe German Shepherd sleeping is key to its healthy and happy life. All sleeping habits are pretty individual. If your German Shepherd sleeps well, you will enjoy long years together. 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 need to go to the toilet How to stop a german shepherd puppy crying at night? There are many different reasons that your pup may be crying at night. Fortunately, there are also lots of ways to help him sleep better at night. Here are a few of the ways you can stop your german shepherd puppy from crying at night: Exercise to tire your German Shepherd puppy out: Your puppy should be taken out for 5 minutes for however many months old they are. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would be taken out for 15 minutes. Make sure you tire them out enough to help them sleep better at night. Let your German Shepherd puppy outside before bed: Make sure you let your puppy outside to relieve himself before putting him to bed. Surround your German Shepherd puppy with familiar objects: Bring clothing with the scent of the home or the breeder next to him while he sleeps. This will help give him something familiar and help him ease into the transition to his new home. Play soothing music: Playing classical music before and during bedtime can help alleviate whining and anxiety as well as drown out other noise or unfamiliar sounds that may upset or rouse your puppy. The average dog sleeps for only 45 minutes at a time, while human sleep cycles are much longer, lasting 70 to minutes. Dogs can only experience two sleep cycles during that time period. Dogs also differ from humans in that they are polyphasic sleepers, which means they sleep on and off throughout the day. Humans, on the other hand, are monophasic sleepers. Most humans receive their 7 to 9 hours of sleep all at once. While humans spend most of their waking hours awake and alert, dogs dedicate up to 5 hours of their day to simply resting. Dogs who rest more during the day tend to seem happier and more relaxed. Do dogs dream and what about? Dreaming occurs mainly during this REM phase of sleep. And dogs do cycle through REM during their sleep. So its make sense to believe that dog do dream. A puppy will spend more time in dream sleep than an adult dog as they fall asleep more often. So just what are our furry friends dreaming about? Anything your dog does during the day is being processed while they sleep and relived in their dream. This can be observed by their twitching whiskers, the whimpering, and the running paws while they are sleeping. Chances are that your dog may also be dreaming about you if you spend enough quality time interacting with them. They will be dreaming about your play session, walks, and cuddle time together. Where should my German Shepherd puppy sleep? German Shepherd puppies should sleep inside with comfortable beddings. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. You can place the crate beside your bed or in an area close to you. In this way, your new furry friend can smell you. And it gives him a sense of security. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Your puppy needs to get used to a regular schedule, work on their independence, and see you as the dominant figure. Once your GSD has become an adult months-old to 2-year-old , it will be fine for you to sleep with him. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep with me? A new dog may need some time to adjust before they are ready to sleep in your bed. If they show interest in sleeping with you and are well-behaved , you can always let them on the bed later on down the road. What are the benefits of sleeping with dogs? If you are still reading, chances are you might like to sleep with your dog at night. Pets offer comfort and security, but they may affect sleep quality or trigger allergies for some people. Petting dogs in particular has proved to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If touching your pet is part of the key to gaining health benefits, cuddling up together at night is only to make it better. Sleeping with dogs promotes creativity Studies have shown that when dogs are with their owners their heartbeats sync up. This experience promotes theta brainwaves which can be seen in connection with creativity, intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and is a repository for memories, emotions, sensations. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness. Sleeping with dogs boost your mood Studies have found that people who spend time with dogs reported fewer depressive symptoms. Not only is it fun to be with your furry friends, it also helps us relax and increases our flow of oxytocin, the love chemical. Sleeping with dogs makes you feel safe Think about it — your GSD is hard-wired to protect. Many people and having the dog protecting them helps them feel more secure and sleep more soundly. Sleeping with dogs is comfortable That furry, cuddly animal is likely to love lying with you just as much as you enjoy laying with them. The level of comfort a dog brings to the bed helps put you at ease and makes you feel cozy. Sleeping with dogs promote immunity Many people have hygienic concerns when it comes to sleeping with their dogs. However, one study found that infants who slept with their pets were less likely to develop allergies later on in life. After all, your new furry friend will sleep for at least 15 hours per day during their short lives. And the better they sleep, the healthier and happier they are. Further reading. Human beings require hours of sleep per day, but do German shepherds need more or fewer hours? You might notice that your German shepherd is sleeping most of the time or he is ever alert and awake. So, how much sleep is healthy for your GSD? A German shepherd should sleep for around hours per day. Different lifestyles will greatly affect the number of hours a German shepherd will sleep. An Active GSD will sleep less compared to puppies, and senior dogs. Contents How much sleep is normal for a German shepherd? An adult German shepherd can sleep for hours. He will not sleep for 14 consecutive hours but they will be small naps in the day and some continuous hours at night. How long should I expect my German shepherd puppy to sleep? German shepherd puppies sleep for around hours per day. They spend most of their time discovering their environments and they easily get exhausted. Their bodies are in the growing process and need a lot of rest and food. The more a German shepherd ages, the more sleep he will need. An old GSD can sleep for hours. Effects of different lifestyles on the sleeping time A dog that works as a sniffing dog, in rescue missions, or the military services tend to work tirelessly. They do not have a fixed sleeping schedule. German shepherds are loyal and easy to train, they will readily work without ceasing to please the owner. A German shepherd that lives in the house will tend to sleep more than a working dog. He will have lots of time on his own except the training hours. German shepherds can learn to adapt to any sleeping schedule that the owner will introduce. If your adult dog is sleeping for more than 16 hours, it can be termed excessive sleeping. If your GSD is almost heading to his prime years it can be the cause. Your German shepherd can sleep excessively because of an underlying health condition. Setting a fixed sleeping schedule can help in regulating his sleep. You should exercise him and give him chew toys to engage his mind. If your dog continues to sleep excessively, consult a vet. Your German shepherd might be sleeping less because he has so much energy in him that needs to be released. This can be solved by exercising him for not less than two hours a day. If your GSD does not sleep as he should after exercises, you should take him to a vet. The vet might prescribe some medicines like melatonin. Melatonin assists dogs to sleep better, the dose to be prescribed will be determined by the size of your dog. It is not recommendable to give your dog drugs before consulting your vet. It is not advisable to let your German shepherd sleep with you until he is potty trained. Once your dog can wake up on his own for potty breaks, you can sleep with him. It is not conditional to sleep with your GSD but a matter of choice. Providing your German Shepherd with good sleep conditions When you first take your German shepherd puppy home from a breeder or adoption center, he will have difficulties sleeping. The scent makes the puppy think that the mother is around he sleeps comfortably. If the above methods are not applicable, you can buy a spray bottle of Dog Appeasing Hormone. This helps them to relax their feet and it shows that they feel safe in the environment. Sleeping On Its Front This position helps them to be alert while sleeping. Curled up tightly This position is common in German shepherds in the cold seasons. It helps them to decrease the amount of heat getting lost to the environment. It also helps them to protect the belly and neck from any attack. Tail covering its nose This is another common sleeping style in winter. It protects their noses from cold, wind, and rain. Close to the owner Dogs love companionship, by sleeping next to you they feel safe and comfortable. Conclusion Sleep is a fundamental need for a GSD. The amount of sleep your German shepherd gets affects his well-being. You should know the required sleeping hours for German shepherds as per their ages so that you can know when your GSD is oversleeping or not getting enough sleep. Carol is a paw parent, and her love for dogs started when she was just 5. She adores her two German Shepherds and a Bengal cat, who she says, "life would be incomplete without" Recent Posts. Puppies are similar to babies, they eat, poop, play and sleep. This article will answer those questions and give you some insight into German Shepherd puppy sleeping habits. Yes, German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot. A GSD pup will normally sleep upwards of 18 to 20 hours a day. They are usually asleep unless you are engaging with them in some way. It is normal for German Shepherd puppies to sleep up to 20 hours a day. GSD puppies sleep so much because their bodies are still developing and growing fast so they need to sleep to fuel that process. As they get older, they will sleep a little less. German Shepherd puppies should sleep in a crate when really young and not yet trained. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. Some of the best crates for German Shepherd puppies are ones that can grow with your pup and come with a divider. This is not to say your pup has be crated forever, think of this as a tool to help them get house-trained faster and to keep them safe. As mentioned above, it is too easy for them to find a spot to do their business if they have free access to the whole room at night. However, once your puppy knows how to wake you up for their bathroom break, it is really a personal decision as to whether you want your pup to sleep in your bed. German Shepherd Puppy Sleeping Habits As mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies will usually sleep between 18 and 20 hours a day, which is totally normal. It is also normal for a puppy to not be able to sleep through the night. Just like newborn babies need to get on a schedule so does your new puppy. When my GSD puppy first came home, she usually woke me up two or three times each night for potty breaks. Final Thoughts German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot because their bodies are developing and going through a lot of growth when they are really young. It is normal for a puppy to only be awake for 6 hours a day when you first bring them home. Unless they are playing with toys , eating, drinking, or going outside, they will probably be sleeping. If you feel like your GSD puppy is sleeping too much you can check with your vet to make sure all is ok just for peace of mind. They are the second most popular breed in America. German Shepherds are an active breed that requires extensive physical and mental training to stay engaged. Their bites have lbs of force, which is close to 3 times the force of a human bite. Make sure train to your pup not to bite unless the person is an intruder. A German Shepherd puppy can adopt the same routine as a human baby. Incorporate enough time throughout the day for a rotating schedule of eating, potty breaks, playing, and sleeping. Providing a balanced and engaging schedule for your puppy will get him or her more able to become accustomed to sleep training. Your new puppy will be getting used to their new home with you and adjusting to your sleep schedule as well. When the pup is not playing, eating, or taking potty breaks, he or she may squeeze in a day time nap. Their bladders are not fully developed yet, so they are always in need of a potty break. Be prepared for your puppy to wake you up in the middle of the night the first few weeks of bringing him or her home for midnight potty breaks. If you have multiple adults in the house, create a rotating schedule of who will take out the dog for a midnight potty break based on the day of the week. If you have yourself and two others in your home, try a schedule like this: You: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday Significant other, roommate, or another family member: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Your older child or teenager: Saturday nights only What Are Other Reasons for Sleeping a Lot? There are other contributing factors as to why your German Shepherd puppy is sleeping a lot. When they are just months old, their normal sleep schedule will be for normal growth and development of their brain, immune system, and joints. Keep an eye on the other factors that could be reasons as to why he or she is sleeping more and adjust their environment accordingly. Poor diet, excessive exercise, sickness, heat, and boredom could be other reasons for your puppy sleeping more than usual. If your pup is not eating the right nutritious food, he or she could become sleepier throughout the day. Your pup should eat protein-rich nutritious dog food specially formulated for German Shepherds. According to Pet Care Rx , the age, activity, and general health of your pup will decide how much calories it needs throughout the day which is anywhere from to per day. Pet Care Rx suggests giving your pup one of the following for a balanced diet. Young puppies are still in the process of developing their bones and joints. Excessive exercise will only tire your German Shepherd puppy out faster and repeated instances of too much exercise could mess up their sleep schedule. The German Shepherd Shop recommends the following exercises to help your pup stay healthy. Limit tug of war activities to only minutes at a time. Take your puppy on small walks around the block for optimal exercise. Play fetch for about 5 minutes at a time which could be a good throws. Encourage normal puppy free play with their toys at their leisure. German Shepherd Shop discourages doing the following high-impact exercises with your pup. Prolonged games of fetch or tug of war Long hikes or walks Agility training that is not aged appropriately for your pup Sickness If your German Shepherd puppy is sick, he or she may sleep more to fight off the bad bacteria and viruses. If your puppy is acting differently and not as active as usual, take note of this for repeated occurrences. A common German Shepherd sickness is hip dysplasia which could lead to arthritis because of the continuous inflammation in the hips. Degenerative myelopathy, bloating, blood disorders, and epilepsy are also common health issues in German Shepherds. If your German Shepherd puppy continues to act abnormally than how he or usually behaves, schedule a visit with the veterinarian to be on the safe side. This breed naturally thrives better in colder climates and a high amount of heat outside or inside the house can cause more sleepiness. In the summer, be sure the air conditioner is at a comfortable temperature so your puppy feels comfortable. Consider placing a waterproof dog mat or bed and a dog bowl of water at this area for your pup to stay properly cool and hydrated. If your puppy loves the snow during winter, only give him or her a few minutes of snowy playtime so they do not get hypothermia. Your Pup is Bored Naturally, boredom leads to sleeping more. Refer to German Shepherd Corner for some of the best toys for German Shepherds to get ideas of what toys to get for your curious pup. Purchase a few toys as a start and observe your pup. Does he or she like to chew, tug, or fetch more? Maybe get one toy each that encourages these activities and see which toy your German Shepherd puppy loves most. Once you have figured that out, you can stock up on their favorite toy for when the original one becomes worn out. Related Posts. The German Shepherd, as a working dog, tends to sleep a little less than that. The German Shepherd was bred to work for long periods of time and maintain activity both physically and mentally throughout the day and even throughout the night. This resulted in a healthy adult German Shepherd needing less sleep than other breeds of similar age and health. My German Shepherds have adapted their sleep and wake schedule to my own. They sleep thoroughly at night with the occasional alert barking if a wild animal strays too close to our house , and then they are up and awake for the course of the day. I do see them nap here and there, but they are very obviously still awake and alert enough that if I said something or they heard something they would be up and fully awake in a matter of seconds. As you can see below, they are quite happy to nap together! A dog in pain will likely sleep less as it is uncomfortable for them to relax, whereas a dog who is sick may sleep more while they are recovering. If your German Shepherd is on any medications to help with their illness or injury, this may also cause them to sleep more than they normally do, especially if the medications have a sedating effect. German Shepherds may also suffer from depression which can cause an increase in sleeping and disinterest in their normal activities. This increase in stress can cause a reduction in their sleep hours or lead to a more restless sleep as the dogs are not able to enter into that deep sleep cycle due to the level of stress and anxiety they may be experiencing. Certain foods may cause them to sleep more, whereas other foods may actually cause them to sleep less. Feeding your German Shepherd too early or too late in the day could also cause disturbances in their sleep. Making sure to choose a routine feeding time that allows them to fully digest and process their food is important to avoid any nighttime energy spikes or bathroom trips. Uncomfortable Sleeping Area The area in which your German Shepherd sleeps may also impact their sleep habits. Dogs prefer safe, comfortable sleeping areas where they can fully relax. If they are not able to get that, they may sleep less or their sleep may be more restless than it should be. Providing your German Shepherd with a comfortable bed and keeping the bed in an area that is away from the hustle and bustle of your household are two ways to ensure that your pup is getting the restful sleep that they need. While German Shepherds are considered a highly adaptable breed of dog and they can learn new routines fairly easily this also makes them a great choice for first time dog owners , it does take a bit of time for them to adjust. During that adjustment period when they are going from one routine to another, you may notice them sleeping less or sleeping at unusual times. As I discussed at the beginning of this article, the German Shepherd is a working breed and thus they will almost always sleep less than non-working breeds. The lineage of individual German Shepherds may further change how much or how little they sleep. German Shepherds that come from a long line of working dogs or who have been bred for herding, military, or police work may sleep even less than a German Shepherd who was bred for service dog work or just as a companion. If your pup is otherwise healthy, you may need to set up a more regular schedule for your dog and encourage them to engage in more activities throughout the day. Those activities can be more frequent play sessions, walks around the neighborhood, or providing them with enrichment through puzzle toys or obedience exercises to get their mind working. Making sure your pup is getting the physical and mental exercise they need each day will help them stick to a more regular sleep cycle. Similar to the section above, a vet visit is still suggested as the first thing you do if your German Shepherd is not sleeping enough. If your vet has determined that your pup has no underlying conditions that are causing the sleeplessness, then you can look at additional things you can do to help your dog sleep. Providing your German Shepherd with a more comfortable bed or sleeping location is the first step, as is looking at your own routine and if that may impact when and how long your dog sleeps. Relaxing music and calming pheromones or supplements may also help your German Shepherd relax a little more and sleep more deeply. If all else fails, you can also speak to your vet about providing your dog with prescription medications that can help them sleep. German Shepherds who do not get enough restful sleep can become easily agitated, and too many sleepless nights can lead to additional health and behavioral issues. German Shepherd puppies tend to need significantly more sleep than an adult German Shepherd, with many puppies sleeping almost 20 hours per day during their first few weeks of life. As they age and enter into the adolescent period , their sleeping periods shorten, and they begin to learn routines and habits. During this stage, as the puppies have not yet learned how to adapt their own cycles to that of their owners and are still learning impulse control, many owners often report their puppy waking in the middle of the night if they become bored, hungry, or need attention in some way just like human babies! As your German Shepherd puppy continues to age, these midnight adventures will lessen. You might also find your puppy napping in some odd places as they learn where they feel the most comfortable as Kenai did in the photo below, where she first discovered the recliner when she was a puppy! On the other side of things, a senior German Shepherd also generally requires more sleep than younger dogs, and you will probably find them sleeping quite deeply throughout the day. Underlying age-related health issues in a senior German Shepherd may also interrupt their normal sleep cycle , so they may need to rely on shorter and more frequent naps to get the rest their bodies and minds need. Many senior dogs can suffer from insomnia at night, or general lack of comfort with laying in the same position for long periods of time, so they may get up and wander during the night or move around frequently to find a better sleeping position , all of which can disrupt their normal sleep cycle. Orthopedic beds that provide your German Shepherd with more support can help with this restlessness, as can speaking with your vet about additional medications or supplements to make sure your four-legged friend is getting the rest they need. Closing Thoughts Most German Shepherds will sleep around 8 to 12 hours per day, though those with more active lifestyles may sleep less. Providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place to sleep will help encourage them to fully relax and get the rest their bodies require. My 2 German Shepherds and 1 Siberian Husky mix keep my busy, along with my 8 cats I am also a crazy cat lady and my axolotl Fin Diesel he's all about family. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

While litter box training does not replace a dog's need to run and play outdoors, it can keep your home cleaner with fewer accidents. The type of litter you purchase is extremely important, as a puppy may try to eat it. Choose a natural litter that does not clump to avoid an emergency visit to your veterinarian. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your puppy will be using the litter box on his own every day. Step 1 Choose a location in your home for your puppy's litter box training. If you have been using housebreaking pads or newspaper for your puppy, place the litter pan nearby. Choosing a tile or hardwood floor area is wise to make accidents easy to clean up. Step 2 Fill a disposable cookie sheet or pan with wood pellets or recycled paper litter. A cookie sheet is smaller and therefore easy for a little puppy to climb into and jump out. Wood pellets or litter made specifically for dogs is larger and more absorbent than traditional cat litter. Once it is soiled, it will break down to a sawdust consistency. Step 3 Place your puppy in the litter pan. Continue placing your puppy in the pan hourly. Each time you place him in the pan, give him a vocal cue such as "go on" or "potty. Your puppy may still have a few accidents, or not get his entire body into the box before attempting to use it. Do not punish him for accidents near the box. Instead, continue placing him in the box at regular intervals. Step 4 Replace the cookie pan or sheet with a litter box large enough to accommodate your growing puppy. Place the litter box in the same spot as the disposable pan for consistency, and show the new pan to your puppy. Tips If you notice your puppy begin to relieve himself outside of the pan, make a noise such as a clap or whistle to distract him, and place him in the litter pan. We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals. Post navigation.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Find more Pug puppies for sale in closest states: Illinois , Ohio , Kentucky , Michigan , Tennessee , Iowa If you have never owned a Pug before, or are interested in reading more information, check out our Pug Dog Breed Information page. Latest Dog Articles Most common digestion puppy's diseases We don't like to think of our new puppy falling sick with puppy disease. But youngsters get sick quicker and take longer to get well than adults. It's vital to recognize sick puppy behavior, signs and symptoms of puppy illness, and how to know when you ca How to Defend Yourself against a Mad Dog According to World Health Organization about citizens require emergency care treatment on a daily basis for dog bite injury. Also, about 4. Now, those are insanely alarming statistics. But they are tru Dog Care Tips Few things in life are more fun and rewarding than bringing a dog into your family. Your dog will offer your family years of love and loyalty — as long as you provide him with food, shelter, responsible care, and love in return. Learn more about available delivery options. Only with Next Day Pets, you receive a pet insurance policy with no waiting period included for immediate accident or illness coverage. Litter Information Litter Information Paisley is one of 2 Pug puppies whelped and available for sale in her litter. The puppies in the litter were born on Tuesday, January 24, .Her breeder has carefully selected to feed them Joy Dog Food, dry food. Their favorite food formulation is puppy food. Her breeder has started potty training Paisley and her littermates. Review the breeder's selected potty training methods below. The puppies in the litter have been socialized to develop positive behavior characteristics. Socializing a puppy at an early age may make them more confident, relaxed, compassionate pets. Review how the litter has been socialized below. As part of ensuring the growth and development of Paisley and her littermates, their breeder has introduced a variety of neurological stimulations to each puppy at an early age. Review the stimulations introduced below. Potty Training Method.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.