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These desirable qualities are a result of meticulous breeding practices and superior genetics. Ritterhund K9s are specifically bred for stability and soundness. Our German Shepherds exemplify the values of Obedience, Protection, and Service, making them exceptional ambassadors. While they possess strength, endurance, and speed, they are also affectionate and devoted family companions. These are the dogs you can rely on to safeguard your home and watch over your loved ones when you're away. German Shepherds view their family as their "pack" and are instinctively protective. They can cuddle with your toddler and accompany your child to the school bus, but should any threat arise, their strength and fierceness will manifest as an unstoppable force. When you become part of the Ritterhund Family, you become a lifelong member. We take great pride in our breeding program and are committed to surpassing expectations for both our K9s and customers. If you are fortunate enough to own a German Shepherd with these genetics, then you understand the difference in these K9s. Bomber is an absolute legend in the K9 Community. These puppies will be large, have high and medium drives, and be steady-tempered. We put countless hours into raising them with the proper foundation they need. Structural balance and harmony that you will only find in this genetic combination we have in this breeding. We are very selective in the homes in which our puppies are placed. A family who is educated on the breed, lives an active lifestyle, and who are willing and able to put the time and effort into properly raising their puppy. We are located near the Central Coast of California. We hand deliver our puppies to their new owners if within reasonable driving distance for no charge. Air in-cabin flight nanny and Ground transport are available for an additional charge for customers located out of the surrounding areas or state. We highly recommend placing a deposit early as our puppies do go quickly. Please download the puppy application or contact us via email or text for details. Please contact us for puppy prices. But once your puppy is born and you have accepted an alphabet puppy litter and choose to back out, your deposit is subject to forfeit. Birth to weaning so if you change your mind after confirming, you are reducing the time the next family has to also prepare for their new puppy. No restrictions on AKC full registration and full breeding rights given on your haus von Wiese puppy. Final payment is due at time of puppy pick up or after delivery arrangements are scheduled, 2 days prior to flight. No additional Charge for puppy pick up in Huntersville NC. September Breeding We had a successful breeding between Lotte and Gringo. We expect our "B" litter to arrive in early November, with take home after 8 weeks of nursing taking us through New Years .The breeding took place but we need a month for the puppies to grow in utero before our vet can confirm the pregnancy. Any overflow will roll over to our Spring Cersei long coat dam litter. Paska is undoubtedly one of the most well known working dog Black German Shepherds of all time. Just as strategically as horses are bred to increase positive attributes, we are breeding in a similar style. Our goal is to save Paska's heritage and continue to produce puppies containing his well balanced temperament, drive and strong working ability. Bomber carries some of the same impressive attributes as Paska and is the product of highly accomplished and highly decorated shepherds in Germany. It is our goal to preserve both bloodlines while integrating fresh new lines from Germany to be sure of safe breeding outcome. Along with 7-week old personality and drive level testing on each puppy, we strive to match each puppy with it's family to achieve long-term fit and family harmony. Our breeding pairs are selected with great health, hips and elbows from multi generational excellence of their lineage. Scroll below to our breeding dogs and click on their Pedigeree Link to view their impressive German pedigree. Thank you to the families that are giving loving new homes to our precious black German Shepherd puppies! Please call or text to reserve your puppy. Nolan was a magnificent 4 time competitor of the German Bundesseiger. You don't want to miss this stunner! Winn-Dixie is a fabulous mix of both Unkas and Nolan. V Paska vom Salztalblick. We are hapy to include Aurora and her freshness to our breeding program. Basia is an incredible product of our exclusive breeding program from the flawless Paska bloodline. Lotte and her parents have all tested the highest for Hip and Elbow tests in Germany, A normal. Mazikeen joined us from German European Import parents. Mazikeen's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. Mazikeen has a sweet natured and pleasing personality who produces family companion pups. Cersei's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. We are proud and excited for her to join our home and our breeding program. This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

House-trained, Story Albert Pickle is a total ham and he knows it! He snorts like a pig and makes the funniest snort noises that instantly make you giggle. Albert is a rescue dog and with any rescue, we cannot guarantee breed or age. We believe Albert is to be an American Bulldog mix approximately 4 years old and currently weighs 60 lbs and we do not expect him to get much bigger if at all than his current size. Albert has the most adorable squishy smooshy face that is the perfect subject for picture opportunities and has the looks that will make everyone stop in your tracks. Albert is dog friendly and did great meeting all of the dogs we introduced him to. He will do well in a home with other moderately playful dogs that will also respect his space whenever he does not want to play and he would also make a great dog for a single pet household. Absolutely no kitties for Albert please, he liked our resident cats a little too much. He is what we consider medium to low energy and like most bulldogs, will not require a lot of exercise and would most likely do well in a apartment or condo. If you know bull dogs you know they can be very stubborn and set in their ways and training can be a little more of a challenge but Albert is very treat motivated which will make training that much easier. Bonus points: he already knows how to sit! He does respond well to corrections and checks in frequently with his handler. He will need some help polishing his leash skills as he can pull to things that excite him and will need to learn some basic obedience skills. He likes to jump every now and then when he gets excited or when those treats come out. Consistency, patience and treats will be key to setting Albert up to be the best doggy citizen he can be. He will be a great buddy to take with you to run errands, join you for a leisurely walk in the neighborhood on a cool day, and will love you forever if you take him to his favorite place the pet store where he can pick out his favorite treats and toys. Abert is crate trained and potty trained and can even stay in his crate for up to 8 hrs with no accidents! His foster says he is very calm and comfortable in the home and likes to follow her around like her little sidekick. Albert is not overly affectionate but you will find him sitting next to you while you read and simply enjoying quality time with you. We can make anything happen! Just let us know. Our PNW dogs are brought to you in style by a beautiful USDA licensed semi-truck, equipped with air conditioning for comfort, two drivers, and 2 onboard attendants providing 24 hour care. Our East Coast route will travel in a private, air conditioned 3LP-run van transport. Pick up day is unforgettable! You will get to follow along on their journey through a private FB Event page, where you will see photos, have the opportunity to connect with other adopters, and receive updates and constant communication along the way. One of our Adoption Coordinators can help to find the closest transport pick up location to you! Why adopt from Three Little Pitties? The stray and animal overpopulation in the Greater Houston area is the highest in the nation. Statistics show that there are over 1 million homeless animals in this region alone. Three Little Pitties Rescue is a nonprofit dog and cat rescue that partners with the community to make a difference. Our mission is to reduce the homeless pet population through community outreach, free spay and neuter services, and saving all breeds of dogs and cats from the streets or animal shelters that oftentimes have no other option but to euthanize animals for space. Three Little Pitties wants to set you and your new pet up for success! We know our dogs and we work hard to prepare them socially for adoption. We are a network of dedicated people who are heavily invested in seeing our animals thrive. We provide weekly socialization programs for our dogs through playgroups and group leash training classes available to all dogs in our adoption program, and Doggy Sleepover, Doggy Day Out, and Ambassador programs for our boarding dogs. There is a professional dog trainer on staff to provide support for our fosters and dogs, and an off-site dog trainer for dogs that need more extensive behavior modification. This helps us learn deeply about every dog, prepare them for adoption, and ultimately match them with loving families. We seek to adopt to families who understand that these are rescue dogs and will require continued training efforts, but will be well on their way to being the best dogs that they can be! We celebrated our 5 year anniversary this year! Through the combined efforts of all of our hardworking staff and volunteers, we have placed over 12, very lucky dogs and cats into amazing homes! By adopting from us, you save TWO lives! The pet you adopt, and you create an opportunity for another animal to be saved in that spot. Together, we can be heroes. Follow our rescue journey through the links below! He snorts like a pig and makes the funniest snort noises that instantly make you giggle. Albert is a rescue dog and with any rescue, we cannot guarantee breed or age. We believe Albert is to be an American Bulldog mix approximately 4 years old and currently weighs 60 lbs and we do not expect him to get much bigger if at all than his current size. Albert has the most adorable squishy smooshy face that is the perfect subject for picture opportunities and has the looks that will make everyone stop in your tracks. Albert is dog friendly and did great meeting all of the dogs we introduced him to. He will do well in a home with other moderately playful dogs that will also respect his space whenever he does not want to play and he would also make a great dog for a single pet household. Absolutely no kitties for Albert please, he liked our resident cats a little too much. He is what we consider medium to low energy and like most bulldogs, will not require a lot of exercise and would most likely do well in a apartment or condo. If you know bull dogs you know they can be very stubborn and set in their ways and training can be a little more of a challenge but Albert is very treat motivated which will make training that much easier. Bonus points: he already knows how to sit! He does respond well to corrections and checks in frequently with his handler. He will need some help polishing his leash skills as he can pull to things that excite him and will need to learn some basic obedience skills. He likes to jump every now and then when he gets excited or when those treats come out. Consistency, patience and treats will be key to setting Albert up to be the best doggy citizen he can be. He will be a great buddy to take with you to run errands, join you for a leisurely walk in the neighborhood on a cool day, and will love you forever if you take him to his favorite place the pet store where he can pick out his favorite treats and toys. Abert is crate trained and potty trained and can even stay in his crate for up to 8 hrs with no accidents! His foster says he is very calm and comfortable in the home and likes to follow her around like her little sidekick. Albert is not overly affectionate but you will find him sitting next to you while you read and simply enjoying quality time with you. We can make anything happen! Just let us know. Our PNW dogs are brought to you in style by a beautiful USDA licensed semi-truck, equipped with air conditioning for comfort, two drivers, and 2 onboard attendants providing 24 hour care. Our East Coast route will travel in a private, air conditioned 3LP-run van transport. Pick up day is unforgettable! You will get to follow along on their journey through a private FB Event page, where you will see photos, have the opportunity to connect with other adopters, and receive updates and constant communication along the way. One of our Adoption Coordinators can help to find the closest transport pick up location to you! Why adopt from Three Little Pitties? The stray and animal overpopulation in the Greater Houston area is the highest in the nation. Statistics show that there are over 1 million homeless animals in this region alone. Three Little Pitties Rescue is a nonprofit dog and cat rescue that partners with the community to make a difference. Our mission is to reduce the homeless pet population through community outreach, free spay and neuter services, and saving all breeds of dogs and cats from the streets or animal shelters that oftentimes have no other option but to euthanize animals for space. Three Little Pitties wants to set you and your new pet up for success! We know our dogs and we work hard to prepare them socially for adoption. We are a network of dedicated people who are heavily invested in seeing our animals thrive. We provide weekly socialization programs for our dogs through playgroups and group leash training classes available to all dogs in our adoption program, and Doggy Sleepover, Doggy Day Out, and Ambassador programs for our boarding dogs. There is a professional dog trainer on staff to provide support for our fosters and dogs, and an off-site dog trainer for dogs that need more extensive behavior modification. This helps us learn deeply about every dog, prepare them for adoption, and ultimately match them with loving families. We seek to adopt to families who understand that these are rescue dogs and will require continued training efforts, but will be well on their way to being the best dogs that they can be! We celebrated our 5 year anniversary this year! Through the combined efforts of all of our hardworking staff and volunteers, we have placed over 12, very lucky dogs and cats into amazing homes! By adopting from us, you save TWO lives! The pet you adopt, and you create an opportunity for another animal to be saved in that spot. Together, we can be heroes. Follow our rescue journey through the links below!

Rarity What makes fluffy Frenchies so rare? Like we already mentioned, fluffy French Bulldogs are still hard to come by despite the huge demand in recent years. Why is that? Frenchies that carry only one LH gene have regular short coat, but they are still valuable for breeders. If such a Frenchie is bred to another carrier of the long hair gene, they are likely to produce fluffy puppies, although the chances of that are still quite low. Long-haired pups are only guaranteed if two visual fluffy French Bulldogs are bred together. Their size depends not only on genetics but on their lifestyle as well how many times you take them for a walk, do you have a backyard, do you have other dogs or pets and even the food that you give them. Male Frenchies are usually stronger and stockier than females, they have bigger heads and wider chests. Female Frenchies tend to be a bit smaller and less muscular. On average, they weigh about 5 lbs less than males: their adult size is around 25 lbs, while boys can go up to 30 lbs. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owner. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a fluffy Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. Even though fluffy Frenchies are most popular among French Bulldog breeders, any responsible dog owner can become the parent of one these amazing dogs. Another thing to consider is your financial situation. Buying a fluffy Frenchie is one thing, and maintaining them is a whole different story. Each pet has to visit the vet regularly to get the compulsory shots, which costs money. Not to mention any sickness, which can easily happen at any age. Vets are not cheap, but having pet insurance helps to lower medical costs. All French Bulldogs are prone to overheating due to their flat-faces, but fluffy Frenchies are in even more risk because of their thick long coat. So, if you live in an area with a hot and humid climate, you might want to opt for a regular short-haired Frenchie puppy instead. Their price ranges on a wide scale and is largely determined by their color and gender: standard colored fluffy puppies are valued around 10, USD while unique ones like lilac tan and merle can go up to 19, USD. Female Frenchies normally cost more than males. FAQ What makes fluffy Frenchies fluffy? Fluffy Frenchies have the rare long hair — LH gene also known as the Fibroblast Growth Factor which gives them their furry look. Do Fluffy French Bulldogs Shed? Regular grooming is recommended for them, especially during spring and fall. Why are fluffy French Bulldogs more expensive than other Frenchies? Fluffy Frenchies are much rarer and more unique than short-haired Frenchies because of the rare LH gene they carry, which makes them more expensive as well. When looking for a fluffy Frenchie, you will most likely come across cheaper offers than the prices detailed above. Make sure to do your research and get your fluffy Frenchie from a reputable breeder, and you will have a happy and healthy furry family member for at least a decade. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide.

Cowering bulldog puppy sounds congested Typically, puppies will have various symptoms, ranging from stuffy noses resulting from allergies to respiratory congestion due to congestive heart failure. The most important thing is to learn how to spot congestion; to do that, you must understand what congestion is. It can be caused by infections, kennel cough, allergies, and heart failure. In addition to a runny nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, and a fever, dogs can get the flu as well. It is a respiratory illness in dogs triggered by a wide variety of pathogens and viruses. Kennel cough causes inflammation of the respiratory tract of your French Bulldog, along with its windpipe and voice box. Thus, it makes noises when breathing, breathes through the mouth, and sometimes experiences nasal discharge. To treat this, nasal openings are to be enlarged. We recommend seeing your veterinarian as soon as possible since cartilage may harden before six months of age, which makes surgery more difficult. French Bulldogs are Brachycephalic There are many breeds of brachycephalic dogs, such as the French Bulldog, which has a wide skull and a short nose. They commonly exhibit oral breathing and snoring, which are symptoms of airway obstruction. When French Bulldogs exercise, their breathing problems worsen. As they age, their breathing issues become more pronounced. Soft palate elongation To swallow, the mucous membrane that lines the nasal and nasopharyngeal closes. Snoring and nausea are the main symptoms. Exercise can worsen the obstruction. Treatment consists of surgically reducing the length of the palate. Generally, the results are good if the operation is performed before the larynx has been affected. Visit your veterinarian as soon as you can. Something Stuck In Their Nose Your French Bulldog may find many foreign bodies on its nose, such as leaves, seeds, grasses, and bone shards. Initially, continuous and intermittent sneezing is the primary symptom of a foreign body in the nose. Your Frenchie may experience a thick, usually bloody discharge if a foreign body remains in its nose for hours or days. This condition should be treated with veterinary assistance. You can easily remove foreign bodies with tweezers from the opening of the nostril if they are visible there. Little French Dog participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. However, having a cloudy, yellow, green, or smelly discharge is always problematic. Consult your veterinarian if in doubt. Other symptoms include sneezing, pawing at the nose, and bleeding from the nose. Pollens, foods, drugs, mites, spores, and chemicals can cause inflammation of French Bulldogs. Allergies in dogs can cause more than just a runny nose; they can also cause sneezing, coughing, itching, nosebleeds, eye discharge, and breathing problems. In addition to a bad odour and a nosebleed, a post-nasal drip might cause coughing or choking. Distemper: Distemper is known to cause sticky, yellow nasal discharge in French Bulldogs, and twitching and convulsions are also possible symptoms, as well as fever and pneumonia. Some Frenchies, such as those with cartilage problems or those with small nostrils, may require surgery. Snoring can also be a sign of nose problems of this sort. Dogs suffer from colds for the same reasons as humans. There is no one specific virus that causes cold symptoms. In dogs, cold symptoms are caused by several different viruses. Symptoms of the common cold include: Watery Eyes. Patches of fur loss , often circle-shaped; Patches of red, irritated, and scaly skin. Parvovirus can also be also deadly when untreated, another condition associated with congestion in puppies and dogs. Kennel cough is another highly contagious disease that could affect puppies newly separated from their mother and siblings. How to Help a Congested Dog A trip to the vet is in order if your dog sounds congested when breathing. Early diagnosis means fast treatment, which in turn means a quicker recovery time and a higher chance of recovery success. Some medical complaints will not go away without treatment. This includes pneumonia, which is usually treated with antibiotics. Your pooch can only get those antibiotics if they have been prescribed them. More pressing cases could even require a night or two in the doggo hospital, for IV antibiotics and fluids. Allergies are often treated using antihistamines. Parvovirus, on the other hand, is much more serious, requiring quarantine and intensive medication courses. Heart disease will often require long-term medication, particularly in middle to older-aged dogs. By not going to the vet with your poor pooch, you are running the risk of letting a potentially deadly disease, such as Parvovirus, run rampant. Vacuuming regularly, using a filter vacuum, will keep dust, mites , and other allergens to a minimum. Check Your Products Have you recently changed the cleaning products you use? Or laundry detergent? How about home fragrances, perfumes and colognes, or even hairsprays? All these things can agitate sensitive doggos, causing congestion, particularly with pampered, mostly indoor breeds. Overweight dogs will experience a host of problems, including congestion and respiratory conditions. If your dog has outdoor-related allergies, however, this might not be the best idea. Emergency Fund Worried about the cost of vet care for your precious pooch? Why not let Petcube take away some of that stress? FAQ What can I give my dog for congestion? It is not recommended to give your dog any kind of over-the-counter medication that you — yourself — would take. When should I take a dog with chest congestion symptoms to the vet? Most benign causes behind congestion in dogs will clear up before that, so a longer bout of it would indicate an underlying problem. Are there high-risk congested dog breeds? Yes, certain breeds of dogs are prone to suffering from congestion more than others. Short-nosed or flat-nosed breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, experience breathing problems more frequently than others. Was this article helpful? Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. If you notice your furry friend has become congested recently, you may wonder what is going on. Snoring, grunting, sneezing, and snorting are all noises that are cause for concern if heard frequently enough. Reasons a dog sounds congested will vary and are largely dependent on age, breed and whether or not a dog has any underlying medical issues. Most of the time, the cause is benign and the issue can be easily dealt with. For a small number of pooches, there may be something more serious going on. Congestion in a dog can indicate an anatomical fault, obesity, allergies, foreign objects, respiratory infections, or even tumors. Temporary issues include poor air quality or an odd sleeping position. Some breeds are no stranger to noisy breathing. For others, however, sounding congested may be new territory. There is a wide range of potential causes for dog congestion and snorting. These include: Anatomy. Those carrying extra pounds are putting additional pressure on their heart and lungs which can affect their breathing quality. As a dog gets older, the cartilage in their airways weakens and they can begin to breathe more loudly than before. Similar to hayfever in humans, some dogs experience Allergic Rhinitis. This can cause sneezing as well as nasal discharge and congested breathing. A foreign body in the nasal passage. If a dog sniffs up a grass seed or awn this is likely to give them trouble when it comes to their breathing. Sometimes, an abscess develops and there is significant swelling. Signs typically start abruptly and can be severe. Respiratory infections. Bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral can all create congested breathing. This is due to the inflammation as well as the production of excess snot and fluid. If your dog has had an anesthetic or sedation you may well notice their breathing sounds heavier for the next day or so. This is a combination of their relaxed muscles narrowing their airway and the fact that they will be very groggy. Anything that obstructs the natural airflow needs to be considered. Benign tumors like polyps and cancerous tumors would both need to be considered. Air quality. If the air around your dog is not well ventilated and is dusty or smoky, this can affect the way that they breathe. Laryngeal Paralysis. Dogs who develop laryngeal paralysis can have noisy breathing and a soft cough. It tends to be senior dogs that are affected. Sleeping position. Sometimes, your dog may be lying awkwardly, causing slight airway obstruction. This can mean they start to sound blocked up and congested. Photo by Stefano Carnevali on Shutterstock Oftentimes, owners notice breathing changes when their dog is asleep as they have the opportunity to watch them closely. It may be that these changes are always present but are harder to spot when a dog is moving about and active. So, those with certain lung and heart diseases tend to cough more and have more trouble breathing when lying down. An abrupt change in breathing habits would usually be accompanied by other signs. You may notice your dog is also breathing faster and is less able to exercise. If your dog normally has quiet breathing, a sudden change needs to be explored. A congenital issue such as BUAS is much less likely in this case. The vet will check for signs of respiratory infections and airway blockages. They will also consider the season, to determine if seasonal allergies are a possibility. Dog Breathing Sounds Like Snoring There are several causes of noisy breathing that sounds like a snore. If this is a new thing for your dog, an airway exam should be performed by a vet. This is because they suffer from a condition called Brachycephalic Upper Airway Syndrome. Some are more affected than others and it is important you discuss with your vet if your dog requires any intervention. Dog Gurgling Sound When Breathing Gurgling when breathing may mean that there is fluid present somewhere in the airway, which could point toward serious lung or heart disease. A gurgle is a specific sound that should never be ignored. If you think your dog gurgles when they breathe, have them assessed right away. What are the Signs of Respiratory Distress in a Dog? A dog in respiratory distress may hide, pace around, or stand with their arms wide apart and neck extended. With limited oxygen, the breathing will generally be fast, shallow, or noisy and gums may be grey or blue instead of a healthy pink. Every owner should make themselves familiar with the signs of respiratory distress. While some assume signs would be obvious, this is not always the case. When resting or asleep, anything higher than 30 breaths a minute is a red flag. An exception to this is a healthy pup who may breathe quickly for a short time while dreaming. A trip to the vet should always be the first port of call. Once we know what we are dealing with and the correct prescription medicine has been issued, we can consider how we can help our dogs at home: Let your dog in the bathroom whenever a family member has a hot bath or shower. This can help clear their airways and soften any mucus buildup. Encourage your dog to move about, as long as they are up for it. Lying still for too long can lead to mucus and fluid pooling. Anti-histamines and similar over-the-counter medicines may be appropriate for some patients, especially those with allergies. However, this should always be discussed with a vet first. Clear away any nasal discharge with a warm, wet cotton towel or grooming wipes. This can put them off their food which can affect their energy. It can help to offer warm and strong-smelling food such as sardines and moist chicken. Consider using a humidifier in your home if needed. Keep the air well ventilated. Make it easier for your dog by ensuring the air is free of dust, smoke, cooking fumes and air fresheners. Thankfully, this tends to be something Mother Nature takes care of for us. While some websites may advise using a nasal aspirator, few dogs will tolerate this according to practicing vets and my own experience. Rather, using a humidifier and steaming your dog in the bathroom should be enough to loosen up mucus and let the body deal with it naturally. When liquid is dripping out of the nostrils, you can clean it away with cotton wool. If your dog has fluid in or around their lungs this is a true medical emergency. This is not something that can be treated at home and these dogs need immediate vet care. Fluid build-up may need to be drained with a needle or using medicine called diuretics. Loud breathing in a dog is a symptom that merits our attention. It will likely bother your dog, affect their sleep and make it harder for them to exercise. There are a range of potential causes for congested and noisy breathing, meaning a vet visit is a necessity. Your dog will be examined thoroughly and may require — after natural remedies are ruled — medication and other interventions. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Yes — and no. Let us explain. Brachycephalic dogs, otherwise known as flat-faced breeds, have more difficulty breathing due to their shortened snouts. The French bulldog, Boston terrier, and pug are among the most well-known brachycephalic breeds, and 24 breeds total have brachycephalic conformation. These breathing issues are often pronounced with exercise and become more evident as your dog ages. While this type of congestion in dogs is considered normal for certain breeds, their physical features can lead to severe issues such as nasal stenosis and laryngeal collapse, both of which require surgery. Here are the most common causes: 1. See also Inactive Canine? You may be able to see the leaf, wood chip, piece of grass, or whatever your pup has managed to get up their nose protruding out of their nostril. In that case, gently remove it with tweezers. If you cannot see or are uncomfortable removing the obstruction, have a veterinarian examine your dog and remove the object. They may need to sedate your pup if the foreign body is far up its nostril and will provide the best follow-up treatment. Dogs and humans can share many of the same allergies, including allergies to several environmental substances. These include grass, pollen, dust mites, and more. Your pup may even be intolerant to cigarette smoke, certain types of medicine, or chemicals used in cleaning. Not only can congestion be a symptom of allergies in dogs, but they may also experience itchiness, runny eyes , inflamed skin, diarrhea, vomiting, and constant licking , among other symptoms. Respiratory Infections If your pup suddenly becomes congested, you are most likely dealing with a respiratory infection. A viral infection is the most likely cause of sudden congestion or sinusitis in your dog, and congestion is the result of inflammation and excess mucus. Several common respiratory infections and conditions develop in dogs, including kennel cough, pneumonia, dog flu, rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, and tracheal collapse. Schedule a vet appointment immediately if you suspect your dog has a respiratory infection. Many of these conditions must be treated as soon as possible to avoid serious health consequences. Age While age alone could be causing your furry friend to sound congested due to weakened cartilage in the airways , this is sadly not the only reason why this may occur. Heart disease is most common in older dogs, which may cause congestion and wheezing. Your older dog may find physical activity difficult as a result or is experiencing difficulty breathing due to lethargy. Sleeping Position Have you noticed that your dog only seems to sound congested when sleeping? Lying awkwardly can cause a slight obstruction in their airway, making them sound congested and increasing their likelihood of snoring. Air Quality The air quality in your home could be causing congestion in your pup and, unsurprisingly, yourself. This can result in fungal infection, with your dog sounding congested for even weeks or months at a time. Sedation Has your dog recently been sedated due to a medical procedure or surgery? Plus, your dog will be a little more sluggish than usual. Tumors Sadly, several types of tumors, both benign and cancerous, may cause congestion in dogs due to upper airway disease. These are primary tracheal tumors and will need to be removed to clear the obstruction in the airway. A humidifier can help reduce inflammation and release congestion, as can the steam from a hot shower. When using a humidifier, remember not to add any essential oils, as they may be toxic to animals. While it could result from something as minor as a doggy head cold, it could also be more serious. 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? She is a strong healthcare services professional with a graduate degree from St. George's University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn. Post navigation. If they sound congested or are breathing more heavily than they usually would, it can be alarming. There are many reasons your dog may experience congestion, most of which are nothing to worry about. They may have a cold or have changed into an odd sleeping position. Whatever the case may be, we will go over why your dog may sound congested and when to consult a vet. Typically, when your dog sounds congested when sleeping, nothing is wrong. However, it may be a sign of something more severe in some cases. If you notice signs of congestion in your dog, keep a close eye on it and note any changes. Common Reasons for Nighttime Congestion in Dogs Here are the most common reasons dogs are congested at night. Dogs are like humans in that the way they sleep affects their breathing. If it seems like your dog only makes strange sounds in their sleep while lying in an unusual position, you more than likely have no reason to be concerned. However, if the noises persist, no matter how they lie, there may be another cause. Allergies or a Cold Dogs are more like people than we think and can experience allergies or catch a cold. Our pups go through the same symptoms that an allergic reaction or illness gives us. Dogs that have colds will have a stuffy nose, causing some congestion. You may notice other symptoms in combination, such as sneezing or a runny nose. They may even have a fever. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Take The Quiz Dental Issues Poor doggy dental health may cause various issues, including congested sounds. If your pup has an infection or a cavity, it can affect how they sound in their sleep. Their mouth is connected to their airway, so any irritation may transfer to their breathing. Medication Side Effects Have you given your dog a new medication recently? If so, check the side effects to see if they include congestion. Some medicines may also make dogs feel drowsier, causing them to have a deeper sleep, which may cause snoring sounds. Obesity Obese and overwei ght dogs can cause poor health, including their lungs. Ensure that your dog is within the recommended weight range for their breed. Offer treats sparingly, as the calories can quickly add up. You can also use healthier treats, such as baby carrots, that your pup is sure to love just as much. Dogs Breeds With Congested Breathing Some dog breeds are more prone to congested breathing than others due to their anatomy. If you have a dog breed such as a pug or French bulldog, this is normal for their species. Age Older dogs are more likely to snore or sound congested while they sleep. As they age, the nerves in their airways start to weaken. Although this is normal and is usually not a cause for concern, it could signify laryngeal paralysis. If you notice that the congestion or snoring disturbs your senior dog, talk to your veterinarian to rule out any illnesses. Secondhand Smoke We all know that if you smoke a cigarette near another person, it can affect their lungs. The inflammation the smoke causes to their airways can cause snoring or congestion. If you smoke, always do so outside, away from any people or pets. Although congestion is normal in dogs, there are some ways you can help them, especially if they have a cold. If their weight is the cause, ensure they are on a healthy diet with plenty of playtime and exercise. Take note of any medications you may have recently given them. Pay attention to the time of year your dog snores. If your dog snores more in the summer, they are likely to experience seasonal allergies. Try Home Remedies If your dog has other cold-like symptoms or you suspect seasonal allergies, here are some remedies to help them with congestion: Antihistamines can help dogs the same way they help people. Consult your vet to get the proper dosage. Use a humidifier at night; some extra humidity may help clear their airways. Get rid of any lingering bacteria by cleaning their bedding, bowls, toys, or anything else they use regularly Chicken soup helps dogs just as much as humans who are congested. Feed them lukewarm low-sodium broth, cooked veggies, and brown rice to help clear their sinuses. In some cases, it can be indicative of issues. More on Dog Knowledge:. Pin2 2 Shares Anyone who owns a French Bulldog will be very familiar with their little quirks. If your French Bulldog has a runny nose or sounds congested sometimes accompanied with runny eyes, a cough, reverse sneezing and nosebleeds please take the time to read what this could mean, when you should be concerned, and what you need to do. Whilst a French Bulldog with a running nose could be something as simple as a bit of hay fever , there are other types of nasal discharge that can be early warning signs of more serious medical conditions. This is what a healthy French Bulldog puppy nose should look like. With this in mind, what are some of the reasons why your Frenchie has a runny nose, and when should it be a cause for concern? Why does my French Bulldog have a runny nose? French Bulldogs are prone to an assortment of breathing problems which can lead to frequent infections and environmental allergies. In short, brachycephalic breeds flat-faced dogs such as French Bulldogs will have runny noses more often than other breeds. It is common for Frenchies to have runny noses, but that comes with a caveat. If you notice any abnormal nasal discharge, especially if this includes any blood or pus, or if your Frenchie is struggling to breathe and sounds congested, you will need to get your pup booked in to see a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Handy Hint: If your French Bulldog has a clear runny nose that is just watery it could be due to just be some form of mild irritation or allergy. Reasons why Frenchies have runny noses There are plenty of reasons why your Frenchie might be suffering from the sniffles. They can range from a blocked nose to more serious medical condition. Here are some of the main causes, plus ways you can help your Frenchie. Normal nasal discharge should be clear, thin, and have no odor. Nasal infections Thick nasal discharge that has a strong odor or is yellow, white or green can be an indication that your Frenchie has developed an infection. If you notice these symptoms, you will need to get your Frenchie booked in to have them examined by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. If your Frenchie is struggling with a nasal infection you can help to ease their discomfort by using a warm, damp flannel to clean their face; paying special attention to any gunk that might be trapped in the folds and clearing away any discharge from around their nose. Some common types of nasal infections include: Canine Distemper: this is typically characterized by a thick, sticky yellow nasal discharge. Other symptoms can include fever, twitching, convulsions, and pneumonia. Parainfluenza: a hacking, persistent cough is one of the tell-tale signs your Frenchie might have this type of infection. Other symptoms include thick nasal discharge, gagging, sneezing, and fever. Aspergillosis: a fungal infection that typically affects dogs with a weakened immune system; common symptoms include sneezing; thick nasal discharge which can include blood; a swollen nose; and a loss of appetite. Dog flu canine influenza : symptoms include an increased difficulty in breathing, lack of energy, fever, coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. Nasal discharge will be thick, and can be a milky white, yellow, green, or brown. Kennel cough: characterized by a strong, persistent cough; this respiratory illness can also be identified by a runny nose, sneezing, a low fever, lack of energy, and a loss of interest in food. If your French Bulldog has runny eyes and a cough it could be one of the ailments listed above — many of these will often be mistaken for your Frenchie having a cold. Allergies Just as humans can be prone to hay fever and a multitude of other environmental allergies, so can your French Bulldog puppy. Runny noses and eyes can indicate your little buddy is suffering from seasonal allergies. In most cases, antihistamines should be enough to clear up any symptoms, so if you suspect that your Frenchie is struggling with environmental allergies, it might be worth having a discussion with your veterinarian to discuss possible medications. Blocked nasal passage If you notice that your Frenchie only has nasal discharge coming from one nostril and that it has been going on for more than a few hours, there is a distinct possibility that your Frenchie has inhaled something that has become lodged in their nose. This could be grass, grass awns which is likely if they have recently played in foxtail grass , or some other type of foreign object. If this is the case, you may also notice your Frenchie pawing at their nose or sneezing. Nosebleeds are also a possibility. Although this is typically not serious in the early stages, it is still important to get your Frenchie checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. This can include things such as fungal infections, viral infections such as rhinitis or sinusitis , and even tumors. Nasal polyps or tumors If you notice that your Frenchie is struggling to breathe, and they have mucus, pus, or blood in their nasal discharge, this could be an indication that your dog has nasal tumors or nasal polyps. You may also notice a swelling on one side of the nose and a loss of appetite. If your Frenchie is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is absolutely vital that you get them checked out by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Treatment for both polyps and benign tumors typically involves surgery. However, if the tumors are cancerous, your veterinarian will typically prescribe radiation therapy. Oral-nasal fistula or a cleft palate Cleft palates are unfortunately one of the most common health issues found in French Bulldogs, especially if they are purebred. This birth defect results in a split in the roof of the mouth where the tissues have not fully developed. Not only is this uncomfortable for the dog, but also leaves the nasal passages separated. A nasal fistula is an unusual opening between the oral and nasal passages. This can be the result of a birth defect, tooth decay, infection, or some type of injury or trauma in the mouth. Both of these conditions allow water, food, saliva, and bacteria to enter the nasal cavity and results in frequent infections and runny noses. If you notice that your Frenchie has a runny nose or nasal discharge after they eat or drink, especially if the discharge is very watery or has small bits of food in it, your dog may be suffering with one of these conditions. Other symptoms of a fistula or cleft palate include difficulty eating; coughing while drinking water; persistent sneezing and snorting; and struggling to breath after a bit of exercise. Fistulas in particular are not always that easy to spot. If your veterinarian determines that your Frenchie has one of these conditions, they may recommend surgery in certain cases. This can result in more difficulty with breathing and increased nasal discharge. If the symptoms are frequent and your pup shows a lot of difficulty breathing and a constant runny nose, then get to the vets. There are times when surgery might be necessary, although this is typically a last resort. Frequent nasal infections are another indication that surgery might be necessary, especially if you notice them having more and more infections as time goes by. French Bulldogs and nosebleeds There are plenty of reasons why your Frenchie might have a nosebleed, ranging from a foreign object becoming lodged in their nose, to frequent reverse sneezing and coughing. Whatever the case, it is absolutely vital that you get them booked in with your veterinarian to find out what the cause of the nosebleed is. However, while you wait for the appointment, you will need to try and stop the nose bleeding. To do this, it will be important to keep your Frenchie calm. Try to soothe them, as they are likely to be in a fair bit of discomfort. Then take an absorbent cloth or sponge and cover whichever nostril is bleeding to absorb as much of the blood as possible. To help ease the discomfort, you can also get an ice pack and wrap it in a towel. This will likely result in some nausea, only adding to their discomfort. Caring for your sick Frenchie It can be incredibly distressing to see your beloved Frenchie in discomfort, especially if they are struggling with more than just a runny nose and cough. If you find you have a sick Frenchie on your hands, here are some of the things you can do to help them while they are feeling unwell: Keep calm and pamper them: Frenchies are notorious lovebugs, so take the time to really pamper your pup while they are feeling under the weather. Try to keep them calm and give them plenty of love. Keep them hydrated: Make sure your pup is staying well hydrated by encouraging them to drink plenty of water. If your Frenchie is refusing to drink anything, you can add chicken broth to their water to help make it more appetizing or offer them ice cubes. Use a damp, warm cloth and take care to clean around the face, between the facial folds, around the eyes, and to wipe away any discharge that might be blocking the nose. Make sure you also dry between the folds to prevent any bacteria growth. Keep them comfortable: If your Frenchie is experiencing any facial swelling, you can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel to help ease the discomfort. What other owners say I will often look to social media to see what other Frenchie owners say about a particular problem. Here are some highlights. My French Bulldog puppy has a runny nose Many Frenchie puppies will have a wet nose more than usual in their younger months. I would make a call to the vet though just to make sure they can rule things out. When she was a baby and her teeth were coming through, she was very snotty and reverse sneezing. Just a possibility, but I think snot and teething are related. Brachycephalic dogs are very prone to respiratory and aspiration issues. Nose running can be temperature changes like going from warm inside to cold outside or vice versa. You might also like…. One of the signs, when the nasal passageway is inflamed, is dog snoring sounds congested during sleep. This indicates a clear sign that a dog has difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nasal discharge that may be pus-like or clear, redness in the eyes, and sneezing. Dog Stuffy Nose at Night due to Upper Respiratory Infections Same as humans, dogs can also get infected with upper respiratory infections. Dogs with respiratory infections like kennel cough, or parainfluenza also suffer from stuffy noses and the act of breathing becomes difficult. As a result of this, your canine friends may sound congested and snores in their sleep. So, regardless of the breed, be it a long-snouted dog breed like a Cream Long Haired Dachshund or a short-snouted dog breed such as a Pug , snoring while they have respiratory infections is common. That said, if the breathing of your Pug sounds congested, look for other signs including fever or refusal to eat and drink because these signs warrant a visit to the vet clinic. These are pink polypoid that grow on the lining of the nose. Though these polyps are non-cancerous, they make it difficult for dogs to breathe well, thus, nasal polyps can cause dogs to snore while breathing and sleeping. Dogs with pushed-in noses or short snouts, also known as brachycephalic dog breeds, have shorter breathing passages which may cause snoring during sleep. Brachycephalic conditions in dogs have four 4 components. The first two are the primary characteristics, which are an elongated soft palate and narrow nostrils. The excess soft tissue in the palate, or upper airways, causes air to be obstructed resulting in irregular turbulence and vibration. Add to that the narrow nasal passageway that makes it difficult sometimes to breathe causing them to pant and breathe through the mouth more often. The other two secondary components of the brachycephalic syndrome in dogs are laryngeal saccules being everted or turned out, and collapse of the larynx that results from the primary components. The small bags of tissue in front of the vocal cords, which are the laryngeal saccules, may be pulled down when dogs breathe harder than usual to fill their lungs. Laryngeal collapse happens when the cartilage in the voice box loses its rigidity which eventually becomes weak. Dog Making Weird Snoring Noise because of Age As a dog ages, the nerves in the larynx can deteriorate making the muscles in the voice box weak and causing it to droop. This blocks the air resulting in a dog breathing loud when sleeping. This condition, also known as, laryngeal paralysis, is common among long-nosed breeds, like the Irish Setters and the Labrador Retrievers. Read next: Chihuahua Lab Mix Complete Guide When there is laryngeal paralysis, the vocal cords do not open correctly during inhalation resulting in stridor or noisy breathing. Symptoms include coughing after an exercise or during eating and drinking, as well as, a change in the sound of the bark. If detected early, treatments like anti-inflammatory medication or sedatives can reduce any breathing difficulties. Surgery is the last option for severe cases. Fat tissues can eventually narrow the respiratory passageway leading to snoring. Excess weight can also put pressure on the heart and lungs making breathing even more difficult. According to research, the top dogs that are prone to obesity include the Pug, Beagle, Labrador Retriever, and Bulldog. Bulldogs, being brachycephalic, will exacerbate Bulldog congestion problems, like labored breathing and coughing due to narrow respiratory passageways. Dog Sniffles at Night due to Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a condition wherein the breathing stops and then resumes while the dog is sleeping. Affected dogs with sleep apnea usually begin with shallow breathing patterns. Then the breathing stops momentarily. And when their breathing is resumed, it starts with a sharp and deep inhale that sounds like congested breathing and snoring. Though sleep apnea is rare, still, some dogs can be affected including Chihuahuas. How do you know if your canine family member suffers from sleep apnea? Frequent snoring and waking up in the middle of the night are two symptoms. The narrowing of the air passage causes these two signs. Dog Sounds Congested at Night because of Side Effects of Medicines A puppy sounds congested when sleeping could be a result of the medicines that your pup is taking. One of the common side effects of medicines is drowsiness which causes your puppy to slumber deeply and causes snoring that sounds like congestion. As you have seen from the above discussions, the reasons why your dog making weird breathing noises while sleeping varies. In most cases, the reasons are non-medical, meaning, snoring that sounds like congestion are nothing to worry about. However, if there are other signs present and if your gut tells you something is not right about your canine friends, take them to the vet for a thorough physical examination. Moreover, aside from the ten reasons we cited above, did you know that dogs also make weird breathing noises while dreaming? Yes, just like you, your fur baby also slumbers into a deep state of sleep, referred to as rapid eye movement or REM. During this stage, it is not unusual to hear your pooch snore heavily, bark, and even whine. If you notice that your fur baby is struggling to breathe or inhale air, moving her body or her head to the side when she is faced up will reduce the snoring. Fluids, especially if congested, can sometimes accumulate in the nasal passageways and cause a gurgling sound aside from snoring. Dust mites can easily trigger an allergic reaction in a dog that will cause clogging of the nasal airways. Thus, it is important to keep their bed, the floors, and the surrounding area free from dust. A good vacuum cleaner should be one that is quiet and can seamlessly transition from hardwood floor to carpet.

Best of all? Maintain an optimal diet. Are you feeding your dog food specifically made for their skin health? Providing a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce excessive shedding. Lower quality dog food is largely composed of ingredients that German Shepherds have a hard time digesting, like wheat,s soy, or corn. GSDs are also prone to dry skin and allergies, some of which are linked to a lack of a balanced diet. A balanced diet builds a strong immune system in your dog — and a healthy immune system is able to better fight diseases and maintain skin health. Look for dog food that lists meat as the main ingredient, as meats are easier to digest and absorb. Quality ingredients reduce shedding and help with dry skin as the nutrients are more readily available. For excessive hair fall and shedding, feed Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach dog food to help nourish their skin and coat while limiting irritations. Did you know that dehydration can lead to dry skin? And dry skin can cause shedding and contribute to other illnesses. Make sure your German Shepherd always has access to clean, fresh drinking water. One simple and often overlooked German Shepherd shedding solution is to ensure your dog is drinking enough water. Hydrated, supple skin resists excessive shedding. Inadequate water intake could lead to dry skin, which in turn could lead to skin irritation, constant itching, hair follicles weakening, and hair falling out unnecessarily. How much water is enough for a German Shepherd? So, if your dog is thirsty because she has been outside playing, let her drink. Some owners even supply their dogs filtered water, which is great. But as long as the water is clean and fresh, tap water is just as good. Adding in a portion of wet food to their regular kibble is a good way to help keep your dog hydrated source. If you take long walks or play intense games, be sure to have a travel water botter to give your dog the hydration they need when on the go. Brush thoroughly and frequently. Brushing more frequently can trap hairs on your brushing tool, instead of your couch. This means that fur winds up on your brush, which you can throw away, as opposed to your clothing, floors, and furniture which is harder to clean. Use a grooming tool that is designed specifically to remove shedding undercoats on a German Shepherd called a rake brush. The Conair Pro Undercoat Rake Brush removes dead hair from the undercoat and spreads healthy skin oils, resulting in a glossy coat. Brush frequently, but gently The more often you brush your German Shepherd, the more hair you will remove to avoid excessive hair loss. During the shedding seasons of fall and spring, brush your German Shepherd daily. At other times brush your dog at least twice a week—more if you have time. Make grooming a habit that your dog enjoys by keeping your shedding removal sessions short, 5 to 10 minutes, positive, and using gentle strokes with a light hand. Brush your dog outside or on walks. Want to learn a quick routine for brushing your German Shepherd? Bathe them with a de-shedding, moisturizing shampoo. Did you know there are shampoos and conditioners which can reduce hair fall in your GSD? This also prevents irritation and scratching from developing — which can lead to your German Shepherd losing hair. Bathing with de-shedding products loosens and removes the excess undercoat and dead hair. Overbathing can cause dry skin, which causes itching and shedding by stripping their natural skin oils. German Shepherd hair fall shampoo and conditioner Many GSDs need conditioner to prevent dry, itchy skin and further hair loss. The soap-free formula is safe to use with spot-on flea and tick products. It also contains no dyes or parabens for dogs with sensitive skin, while helping to maintain normal shedding and reducing doggie odor. After bathing your dog, towel-dry him to remove excess water. A damp coat is a breeding ground for bacteria on the skin — which can increase hair loss! Keep brushing and wiping them with the towel until they are no longer damp. Check and control fleas and ticks. Fleas can cause your dog to scratch continually, which causes fur to fall out. So, make sure your dog is free of fleas, ticks, or other parasites that cause skin issues. A flea-free dog prevents dandruff, irritated skin, hair loss, and decreases overall shedding. In many cases, a safe flea treatment that your vet recommends should be enough to prevent parasites. However, fleas can induce Flea Allergy Dermatitis FAD , which is one of the most common dermatologic diseases in household dogs throughout the United States source. This irritation, in turn, can lead to itching, excessive shedding, and even hair loss or bald patches of hair. If you notice redness, patchy balding areas, scabs, or have any concerns at all, contact a veterinarian. Keep a de-shedding spray on hand. This lightweight de-shedding spray helps prevent shedding. Always keep a lightweight de-shedding spray on hand to add back moisture and prevent the skin from drying out. The spray contains conditioners that coat the hair, preventing unnecessary hair loss. Moisturized hair is harder to come loose easily. Also, the moisture in the de-shedding spray keeps your dog from scratching at dry skin which helps inhibit hair fall. The combination of the spray and rake brush is an easy, powerful way to reduce German Shepherd hair loss. Look for sprays that contain healthy skin oils, such as jojoba, safflower, sunflower, or coconut to aid in skin health. Give them a stress-reducing massage. Stress causes hair loss — which directly adds to a shedding problem. You might laugh, but an anxious or stressed dog loses more hair than a calm, relaxed dog. As an added bonus, massage provides a daily dose of bonding! Massage for stress and shedding reduction Sit next to your dog on the floor in a quiet, comfortable room. Using very light hands, stroke your dog softly from head to tail for 15 minutes. Do this every week. Not only is this relaxing for your dog, but petting a dog is shown to decrease your blood pressure and increases bonding. Use these double-duty grooming gloves for extra hair removal. The innovative design features the perfect combination of rubber nodules on the fingers and palm, which feels like a massage, and helps to promote bonding. They work specifically as a heavy-duty de-shedder to capture hard to reach hair. While this seems like a simple shedding solution, proving a massage with the right type of grooming tool reduces stress in your German Shepherd and goes a long way to keep them healthy. Feed a shed control nutritional supplement. Shed-X claims to stop excessive shedding in only 3 to 6 weeks! Created by a certified veterinarian, the Shed-X Dermalex Shed Control Nutritional Supplement reduces and even eliminates excessive shedding. The specially formulated nutrients focus on an optimum coat and skin health for fast-acting results. In only 3 to 4 weeks A more manageable and healthier coat with less hair fall, while your German Shepherd enjoys the tasty flavor and essential fatty acids to reduce itchy, scaly skin. Combine fish oil into their daily diet. If your dog is lacking in fatty acids, then adding fish oil may help be a simple solution to reduce their shedding. Fish oil contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which significantly decreases hair shedding. Given daily fish oils can help aid in excessive shedding. Look for a natural supplement that also contains other proven skin-healthy oils, like flaxseed oil. Zesty Paws contains both salmon and hemp seed oil and is great for a healthy coat. Moreover, a blend of wild Alaskan salmon and refined virgin hemp seed oils work together to pack a powerful punch of nutrients and omega fatty acids. These ingredients may improve coat health, joint mobility, heart health, stress levels, and immunity. A strong coat starts with supple skin that prevents excessive hair loss and protects your GSD from irritations. Keep in mind that positive effects take a few months to notice. So stay consistent with daily use for the best results. See more fish oils for German Shepherds. Reduces itching, scratching, and hair loss from food allergies. Always have clean, fresh water on hand. Even during cooler weather the skin can become dried out due to lack of water intake. Bathe with a de-shedding shampoo. Apply parasite prevention to avoid skin issues and hair loss from irritation caused by bug bites. Apply a de-shedding spray. De-shedding sprays reduce hair fall by keeping the skin moisturized and adding nutrients to the skin. Give a stress-reducing massage. A calm, relaxed dog is a pet that sheds less. And, using massaging and grooming gloves packs a double-punch of hair removal power! Feed a shed control supplement. Combine fish oil into their diet. Use this helpful table to find the best ways to de-shed a German Shepherd. German Shepherds are heavy shedders and their coat requires regular maintenance to show optimum health. Watch out for hair loss and skin disease that needs to be addressed and treated by your vet. Ger your dog evaluated by a veterinarian when you see any unusual hair or skin problems. Is there a permanent German Shepherd shedding solution? However, many of the shedding solutions listed give you the steps you need to understand how to stop German Shepherd hair fall in huge amounts. Include a few or all of these shedding tips into your routine and results will happen, but not overnight. And, when all else fails or you feel like giving up, just buy a shedding bodysuit for your German Shepherd like so many other dog owners have! The biggest factor in excessive hair loss is the overall health of your dog. But, an overall healthy skin and coat health routine decreases hair loss and makes cleaning your home more manageable. When all that fur flying has got you down, just remember… Why not get this funny magnet as a gentle reminder to yourself and your family? Shed Happens! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherds of all ages are typically heavy year-round shedders. The reason for their noticeable increase in shedding is that this is when they start to grow in a new adult coat. For this to happen, their baby fur has to go. Yet, unlike other breeds where they shed their hair all at once. It happens gradually over the course of a week or two. It then gets replaced with a new, coarser, denser coat. Keep reading to learn more about when these adorable puppies and their coats. Losing the Puppy Coat At Birth German Shepherd puppies are born with a dense, fluffy coat that keeps them warm and snug. It was also thick enough to keep him protected from bumps and falls. That soft, but highly dense, coat helps reduce their risk of injury. You probably know by now that German Shepherds are big shedders anyway. Although, during that time, there will be a distinct increase in shedding. GSDs have a medium-length coat that consists of two layers: an undercoat and an outer coat. The undercoat is the one closest to their skin. This fuzzy layer is thick with fluffy hairs that are relatively short, measuring less than two inches on average. It serves one primary purpose: to keep the dog comfy and cozy all winter long. Then, you have the outer top coat. It comes in three different lengths: short, medium, and long. Even though GSDs shed non-stop all year long, there are two times during the year when their shedding becomes excessive. They do this again in the fall to make room for a new, thicker coat to grow in preparation for winter. This ability to adapt is one of the reasons why GSDs are great at functioning in all kinds of various weather conditions. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. That said, they still do a lot of shedding, and their fur is just as susceptible to getting tangled and matted up. Thus, the best type of grooming brushes for this short-haired breed is pin brushes. It helps remove tangles and dirt. They also work to eliminate pests, such as fleas and ticks. Slicker brushes work best with dogs that have wiry hair. They have short, thin wires placed close together on a flat surface designed to effectively remove mats, dirt, and pests. Those with hair on the longish side will also benefit from an undercoat rake. Long-Haired To keep their coats slick, shiny, and tangle-free, long-haired GSDs do well with an undercoat rake. As the name suggests, this grooming tool has many tiny, curved, sharp blades placed close together. It also helps break up mats and remove loose hairs. Dogs with a long outer coat will also need a slicker brush to ensure their fur is clean, knot-free, and shinier than ever. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. This is especially important because GSDs are such people lovers. So, being the friendly, fun-loving dog that he is, grooming becomes a special way for the two of you to spend quality time together. Check out more emotional benefits grooming has on your German Shepherd: Increases the special bond you have with your furry four-legged friend It makes your pooch calmer and more relaxed The positive reinforcement dogs get during grooming makes them more confident Fosters positive behavior Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Hair loss in dogs or also known as alopecia can be caused by several factors. Here are some of the most common reasons for it: 1. Seasonal Shedding Seasonal shedding is normal in double-coated breeds like German shepherds. German Shepherds will shed their undercoats in preparation for warmer or colder weather in the spring and summer months. This is the mechanism that allows them to regulate their body temperature while adjusting to new seasons. This hair loss does not require any treatment; however, it can be very noticeable due to all of the excess hair on a floor or couch. Allergies According to many vets, allergies are the most frequent cause of hair loss in dogs. It can be caused by environmental factors such as mold or pollen. It can also be a result of food allergies or an allergy to its own fur. Typical symptoms of allergy-based hair loss are severe itching, constant licking or chewing, red skin, and of course, hair loss. When treating allergies, the first thing you must do is determine the cause to come up with an adequate treatment plan, which your vet will help you with. Depending on the cause, treatment options include the elimination of the allergen, antihistamines, or steroids. Parasites An infestation with parasites can cause dogs to lose fur not only from certain parts of their body but also all over. There are different types of parasites that can cause them to lose furs, such as fleas, ticks, and mites. They cause hair loss by passing through the skin and into the bloodstream. This causes irritation and itchiness, which results in your German shepherd constantly itching or scratching their fur off. One thing you should look out for is the possibility of contagion. Some mites, like the scabies mite, are highly contagious to humans and other household pets. Unlike the Demodex mite, other mites will not infect humans but can cause severe irritation to your dog. However, on certain occasions, they can grow out of control and cause an infection or irritation to the skin. These infections can cause a dog to lose its fur, similar to hair loss caused by parasites. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be seen as reddish or brown patches on the skin surface. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. Therefore, it is important to identify the right type of infection before deciding on a treatment. This can be done through proper testing with your vet. Genetics Some dog breeds are more genetically predisposed to losing fur than others. Hair loss can be seen all over the body of dogs with this genetic trait. However, some may only lose hair on certain parts of their bodies, like an ear or tail. Pet owners who have a dog that is genetically predisposed to losing fur can help prevent it from happening by grooming the fur regularly and properly supplying their dogs with the right nutrition and diet. Nutritional Deficiencies A deficiency in certain vitamins or minerals can cause a German Shepherd dog to lose fur. Keratin is the building block of hair. It needs sulfur amino acids in order to be synthesized. Similarly, biotin is also important for hair growth. Other symptoms are darkening of the skin, excessive drinking, urination, and the development of a potbelly. They are often seen as a result of genetics, but certain environmental factors can also cause them. This results in the immune system attacking healthy cells, causing an autoimmune disease. These pressure sores are usually seen on older dogs, especially those who come from large breed households. When a pressure sore develops, the skin will start to break and bleed, forming an open sore. Eventually, the skin will become callus, and the fur around this open sore will start to fall out. Stress Dogs that are exposed to constant sources of stress like moving into a new environment or being spayed can start losing their fur. Diagnosing Hair Loss in Your German Shepherd Most of the time, German Shepherds will lose their fur naturally without any underlying medical conditions. The best way to find out if this is the case is through proper diagnostic tests. In some cases, your vet may prescribe anti-parasitics, antifungals, antibiotics, or steroid treatments to cure the hair loss condition. Other times, a cure for the cause of hair loss may not be available if the cause is a genetic problem or auto-immune disorder. In these cases, the most that can be done is to help manage the symptoms and slow down hair loss. Hair Loss Signs in Dogs Even though there are many reasons for fur loss in dogs, they all have some common signs that you can keep an eye out for. Shedding more than normal and the appearance of bald patches can further indicate a serious problem. This is especially true if these patches are accompanied by small, scaly red lesions or inflamed skins and rancid odor. Do they lose weight even though they have been eating the same amount as usual? Do you notice a drop in their energy levels? Do they whine or yelp out in pain? Learn to identify these signs and get your German Shepherd checked by a vet as soon as possible if you notice any of them. Dog Simple Hair Loss Home Remedies Here are some simple and natural treatments that you can use to prevent or cure hair loss in your German Shepherd: 1. Hempseed Oil Hemp seed oil is a rich natural source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Additionally, hemp seed oil also contains high levels of vitamin E, which is known to promote strong, glossy hair growth in dogs. Lemon Juice Lemon juice has antibacterial properties that can help fight off any external bacteria that may lead to hair loss. Let it sit for an hour or so and rinse with warm water. Do this regularly for best results. Fish Oil It has been widely known that fish oil is beneficial for the health of pet dogs. A healthy digestive tract means healthy skin and fur. Try giving your dog a small spoonful of plain Greek yogurt first and see how they react to it before adding it to their diet. Aloe Vera Aloe Vera works well for many skin issues in dogs. Olive Oil Olive oil has high levels of antioxidants and vitamins that make it a good choice for moisturizing dry, brittle, or damaged fur. If your dog has very dry or dull fur, massage a little olive oil into their coat and leave it in for an hour or two. Another benefit of olive oil is that mites are known to hate the smell of it and will tend to avoid anything that smells like olive oil. If you think your dog may have mites or fleas, try rubbing a little olive oil on their fur as a natural repellent. Tea Tree Oil Tea tee oil does work well for treating flea infestations. It contains compounds that repel and kill fleas. Take caution when using tea tree essential oil. A small amount can do wonders for your dog, but using too much of it may cause adverse reactions. Remember to start with a small amount and increase the dosage gradually. Final Thoughts While there are no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to dealing with dogs that shed, adding healthy nutrients and proper grooming will help keep the fur at bay—and make cleaning up around the house easier too! If your dog is experiencing hair loss or excessive shedding, it may be time to take them in for a veterinary exam. Before or after your appointment, you may want to try out some of the things above and see how they help. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Almost all dog breeds shed, and anyone who has owned a German shepherd knows they are not an exception. There are some breeds that shed much less than others. In fact, there are some types of dogs that only shed seasonally, while others shed year round. German shepherds fit into the latter category, so they are known to shed quite a lot. While your dog will never completely stop shedding there are things you can do to reduce it. Today we will discuss how to reduce shedding in German shepherds. Why do German Shepherds Shed? The simple fact is, this breed sheds heavily. While a certain amount of shedding is natural, there are other factors such as stress, poor diet, skin allergies, and dehydration that can make it even worse. There are several reasons this breed sheds so heavily, and those reasons are: Shedding Year-Round: While some breeds only shed seasonally, others do so all year. As their old hairs fall out, new ones grow in their place. This breed has a large amount of fur, so shedding regularly ensures the dog keeps the same amount of hair constantly. The purpose of a double coat is to protect the dog from injury, disease, and infection. This is the reason a German shepherd should never be shaved. Seasonal: Some of you may be wondering, "When do German shepherds start shedding"? While this type of dog always sheds, it is stronger during summer and fall. The fall shedding helps prepare the dog for the cold winter months by shedding the outer coat, while summer shedding gets rid of the under coat to help cool the dog in hot summer months. This process is called coat blowing and can last several weeks each time. Underlying Health Issues: There are German shepherd health issues that can unnecessarily increase their shedding. Such concerns include stress, dehydration, poor diet, and so on. If your dog seems to shed more than usual you can try administering a dog supplement for a healthy coat. Source: iStock While you may think shedding is not necessary, there are three main reasons a dog sheds. Those reasons are: It assists with sensory perception Helps protect the skin from injury and disease Regulates body temperature What are the Best Ways to Minimize Shedding? For those wanting German Shepherds that don't shed, you'll need to redirect your sights to another breed or a mixed breed if you don't think you can handle the shedding! If you want to know how to stop German shepherd shedding, you once again may want to consider a different breed, however, there are certain things you can do to decrease shedding. Such dog foods usually contain large amounts of grain and corn, which are not digested well by canines. If you suspect your dog food is cheap and not well-balanced, try a new brand but be sure to buy one that has real meat as the first ingredient. Another wonderful choice is beginning your dog on a raw food diet. Healthy diets not only reduce shedding, but also help with dry skin and improves the immune system. Changing your dogs diet too quickly can lead to stomach upset and other issues. Some great choices are flaxseed, fish, or olive oil. All of these oils are great for improving coat texture and healing inflamed skin. Another option is supplements, as usually the best dog supplements for dry skin contain one of these oils. The oils work well because they contain omega-3 fatty acids. Dry skin will lead to an increased amount of shedding and can eventually lead to sickness. Feed Certain Types of Human Food Though dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, there are still some foods that are great for them. Your GSD should be regularly brushed to remove extra fur and bathed regularly to wash away loose hair. Just keep in mind that your dog only needs about 3 to 4 baths per year with a moisturizing dog shampoo. De-Shed your German Shepherd To further reduce shedding you can use various de-shedding tools. July Update: We've included a few more practical things you can do to assist your German Shepherd in shedding less: Blow dry your dog: After bathing your German Shepherd, use a blow dryer to remove the last of its loose fur. Even between baths, blowing them off with a dryer on a cool setting can help remove loose fur after brushing, keeping their shedding under control. Visit a professional groomer: If you don't have the time to groom your dog yourself, an occasional trip to a professional groomer can be a lifesaver. They have all the tools to do the job and can usually perform hygiene trims and clip nails. Add Omega fatty acids to diet: Omega oils can promote healthy skin and coat, reduce excess shedding, and help relieve allergy-related itching. Use an undercoat rake: An undercoat rake can easily remove the dense undercoat to keep it from matting. This will help keep your house cleaner and your dog happier. Use a magic coat curry brush during bathing: This grooming tool can help make bath time faster by quickly removing loose fur. It can also help keep skin healthy by conditioning it with oils and preventing excess shedding. Use a slicker brush: A slicker brush can help remove the loose top fur. Brushing regularly will also help distribute the natural oils on their skin and coat and remove dead skin flakes and hair. Use an anti-shed shampoo: A gentle anti-shed shampoo can help keep skin healthy by conditioning it with oils and preventing excess shedding. Specific shampoos are available designed to reduce shedding by nourishing the skin and strengthening hair follicles. Use a high-velocity dryer: After bathing your dog, use a high-velocity dryer to remove loose fur. This can be particularly effective during your dog's shedding season. Maintain a regular exercise schedule: Regular exercise can help manage your dog's stress levels, reducing excessive shedding. Use a furminator: A Furminator is a specific brush designed to reach down into the undercoat and remove loose hairs before they can be shed. Consider a hypoallergenic diet: If your German Shepherd's excessive shedding is due to allergies, a hypoallergenic diet might help reduce shedding. Use a rubber grooming mitt: A rubber grooming mitt can gently and effectively remove loose fur, especially when your dog is shedding heavily. Keep your home cool: German Shepherds shed more when hot, so keeping your home cool can help reduce shedding. Try a leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can help keep your dog's coat healthy and reduce shedding. Look for one that's specifically designed to reduce shedding. Use a diet rich in protein: A diet rich in high-quality protein can help keep your dog's coat healthy and reduce shedding. Avoid stressful situations: Stress can cause dogs to shed more than usual. Avoid exposing your German Shepherd to stressful situations to help manage their shedding. Regular health check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help identify any underlying health issues causing excessive shedding. Consult a vet: If your dog suddenly starts shedding more than usual or has changes in their skin, and they are not blowing their coat, you should get them checked out by a vet. Many health problems can contribute to shedding. How much do German shepherds shed? A lot! But even then, there is such a thing as shedding too much! While entire patches of missing fur is obvious, there are some other signs that may not be as plain to see. Conclusion In conclusion, German shepherds are loyal dogs that make wonderful pets for the entire family. While they are heavy shedders, if you follow the steps above you will notice a significant decrease. You may also want to invest in the best dog supplement for dry skin, since this is one of the main causes of extra shedding. There are many dog itching treatments available on the market, so make sure you read the ingredients and choose wisely. Also read these important recourses for your dog:. Supplements Balanced Diet A balanced diet fuels your German Shepherd's overall health, including its coat. Essential nutrients like proteins, fatty acids, and vitamins contribute to a strong, healthy coat, reducing excessive shedding. Going deeper, proteins serve as the building blocks of hair, while Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids contribute to a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Vitamins and minerals, like vitamin E and zinc, promote skin health, supporting hair growth. High-quality dog foods are formulated to provide these essential nutrients. If you suspect dietary deficiencies, it's advisable to consult a vet who can recommend suitable foods or supplements to enhance your German Shepherd's coat health. Regular Grooming Regular grooming removes dead hair and stimulates the skin in German Shepherds, promoting healthier coat growth and minimizing excessive shedding. Grooming with a brush suited to your German Shepherd's double coat can help maintain its condition. Brushing removes loose hair, reduces the amount shed onto your floors, and stimulates blood flow to the skin, encouraging healthier hair growth. In addition to regular at-home grooming, periodic professional grooming sessions can further benefit your German Shepherd's coat health. Parasite Prevention Preventing parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites is crucial for German Shepherds, as infestations can lead to skin irritation and hair loss. Expanding on this, parasites cause itching and discomfort, resulting in your dog scratching or biting at its skin, leading to hair loss. Moreover, certain parasites can cause conditions like mange or Flea Allergy Dermatitis, causing significant hair loss. Regular use of preventative treatments can help avoid these issues. Your vet can recommend appropriate products based on your dog's lifestyle and local parasite risks. Effective parasite control also includes regularly washing your dog's bedding and maintaining a clean environment. Hydration Keeping your German Shepherd well-hydrated is vital for skin and coat health. Water supports numerous body functions, including nutrient transport, which can help maintain a healthy coat and minimize shedding. To elaborate, water is essential for the optimal functioning of all body systems, including the skin and hair follicles. It helps maintain skin elasticity and aids in the transportation of nutrients needed for healthy hair growth. Dehydrated dogs can have dry, flaky skin, which is not an optimal environment for hair health, leading to increased shedding. Therefore, ensuring your German Shepherd has constant access to fresh, clean water is a straightforward yet crucial step in managing hair loss. Veterinary Check-ups Regular veterinary check-ups can catch health issues early, including those causing hair loss, allowing prompt treatment and better outcomes for your German Shepherd. Further explaining, a routine vet visit often includes a thorough physical examination, which can identify skin and coat abnormalities indicating potential problems. Regular bloodwork can also spot systemic issues that might manifest as hair loss. For instance, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions could be detected. Early detection allows prompt treatment, halting hair loss and potentially reversing it. Thus, maintaining a schedule of regular vet visits is crucial for your German Shepherd's overall health and coat condition. Manage Allergies Managing allergies in German Shepherds can prevent flare-ups, which often result in skin inflammation and hair loss. Allergy control often involves dietary adjustments, medication, and environmental changes. Going more in-depth, allergies can make your dog's skin itchy and inflamed, and the resultant scratching can lead to hair loss. Food allergies might require a diet change, environmental allergies could necessitate measures to reduce exposure to allergens, and seasonal allergies might call for antihistamines or other medications. Working closely with your vet to identify allergens and develop an effective management plan is important. Proper management can significantly reduce allergy-related hair loss, helping maintain your German Shepherd's healthy coat. Proper Bathing Routine A proper bathing routine using gentle, dog-appropriate shampoo can maintain skin health, minimizing hair loss in your German Shepherd. To delve deeper, bathing your German Shepherd helps to cleanse its skin and remove loose hair. However, overbathing can strip natural oils from the coat, leading to dry, itchy skin and potentially increased shedding. Using a dog-appropriate shampoo is crucial, as human shampoos can be too harsh for a dog's skin. Consider oatmeal or aloe vera shampoos, which can soothe the skin and maintain its natural moisture balance. Remember, bathing aims to support skin and coat health, not eliminate shedding entirely. Your vet can advise on a suitable bathing routine for your dog. Stress Management Stress management is important as stress or anxiety can cause hair loss in German Shepherds. Keeping a stable environment and providing plenty of exercises help maintain your dog's mental well-being. Delving deeper, the stress in dogs can manifest in various physical ways, including excessive shedding or hair loss. Factors that can stress a dog include changes in routine, new family members, moving, or lack of exercise and stimulation. Maintaining a stable routine, providing mental and physical exercise , using positive reinforcement training techniques, and using calming products can all help manage your dog's stress levels. If your German Shepherd seems overly anxious or stressed, it's worth discussing with your vet or a professional dog behaviorist to identify potential solutions. Skin Care Proper skin care can prevent conditions that lead to hair loss in German Shepherds. This includes regular checks for abnormalities, proper bathing, and parasite control. Elaborating further, the skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a critical role in maintaining your dog's health. Ensuring your dog's skin is healthy helps keep their coat lush and reduces shedding. Regularly check your dog's skin for signs of redness, swelling, or patches of hair loss. Proper bathing and grooming will help keep the skin clean and the coat free of loose hairs. By preventing parasitic infections, you'll also reduce the risk of skin irritations that can cause excessive shedding. Consult a vet if you notice any changes in your German Shepherd's skin health. Supplements Supplements like Omega-3 can boost your German Shepherd's coat health, reducing excessive shedding. Always consult a vet before introducing supplements to your dog's diet. In more detail, supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids can support your dog's skin and coat health, leading to less shedding. These fatty acids nourish the skin, promote a glossy coat, and can reduce inflammation that leads to hair loss. Biotin, a type of B vitamin, can also support healthy hair growth. However, before starting any supplement regimen, it's crucial to consult with your vet. Omega-3 fatty acids promote a shiny, healthy coat in dogs by nourishing hair follicles. They can guide you on the most beneficial and safe supplements for your German Shepherd and help determine the appropriate dosage. Does German Shepherd hair grow back? Yes, a German Shepherd's hair can grow back after shedding or hair loss, assuming the cause of the loss has been addressed. Factors such as diet, health, and grooming affect hair regrowth rate. To elaborate, hair growth in dogs, including German Shepherds, goes through cycles, just like in humans. This means that hair will naturally grow back after shedding or even after certain types of hair loss. However, the speed and quality of hair regrowth can depend on several factors. If your dog has a balanced diet, good health, and proper grooming, their hair will likely grow back healthy and strong. If hair loss is due to a health issue like a skin infection, hormonal imbalance, or allergies, treating the underlying issue should allow the hair to regrow. However, if you notice areas where the hair does not seem to grow back, it's important to consult a veterinarian. How long does it take for a German Shepherd's hair to grow back? German Shepherd hair growth varies based on several factors, including the dog's health and the cause of hair loss. Generally, a healthy coat can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months to regrow. Going into more depth, the timeline for a German Shepherd's hair to grow back is influenced by numerous factors. For instance, hair loss due to natural shedding or minor skin irritations may regrow within a few weeks to months. If the hair loss is due to a more serious health issue , it may take longer and require the underlying condition to be treated. The diet also plays a role, as proper nutrition is vital for healthy hair growth. In all cases, it's important to have patience. Hair growth takes time and isn't always immediately noticeable. A veterinarian should be consulted if there's a concern about hair regrowth or continued hair loss. What food causes hair loss in dogs? Certain foods such as beef, dairy, wheat, or chicken can cause hair loss in dogs if they're allergic to them. A diet lacking essential nutrients like protein, fatty acids, and vitamins can also lead to hair loss. Food allergies in dogs often manifest as skin conditions, including itching, inflammation, and hair loss. Common allergens include beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and certain grains. However, every dog is unique, and what causes an allergic reaction in one may not be in another. On the other hand, a diet deficient in essential nutrients can also lead to hair loss. Suggestion: Worst dog food for German Shepherd Protein is vital for hair growth, and fatty acids contribute to skin health. Vitamins and minerals like zinc and biotin also support hair health. If you suspect your dog's food is causing hair loss, consult a vet or a canine nutritionist for advice on dietary adjustments. Why is my German Shepherd getting bald spots? German Shepherds can develop bald spots for various reasons, including allergies, parasitic infections, hormonal imbalances, and dermatitis. Determining the exact cause requires a vet's examination. Expanding on this, bald spots on your German Shepherd could indicate a more serious condition than regular shedding. Allergies can cause your dog to scratch or bite at their skin, leading to hair loss. Parasites like fleas or mites can also lead to bald patches. Conditions like hypothyroidism result in hormonal imbalances that can cause hair loss. Dermatitis, which is skin inflammation, can also lead to bald spots. Each of these conditions requires different treatments, so it's important to consult a vet if you notice bald patches on your German Shepherd. They can provide a diagnosis and suggest the appropriate treatment plan. German Shepherd hair falling out clumps If your German Shepherd's hair falls out in clumps, it may indicate a health issue, such as dermatitis, parasites, allergies, or fungal infection. A vet's examination is crucial to determine the cause. Going into more detail, while German Shepherds naturally shed hair, losing it in clumps is not typical and is usually a sign of a health problem. Dermatitis or skin infections can cause patchy hair loss, while parasites like fleas or mites can lead to hair coming out in clumps. Allergies, either to food or environmental triggers, can also cause excessive hair loss. Fungal infections, like ringworm, often result in circular patches of hair loss. It's crucial to consult a vet if your German Shepherd's hair is falling out in clumps to diagnose the underlying issue and begin appropriate treatment. German Shepherd hair loss and itching Hair loss and itching in German Shepherds can be symptoms of several conditions, such as allergies, parasites, skin infections, or dermatitis. It's important to consult a vet for an accurate diagnosis. Itching, or pruritus, in conjunction with hair loss, is often a symptom of skin irritation. Allergies are a common culprit, triggered by food, environmental factors, or substances they come in contact with. Parasites like fleas or mites can cause intense itching and subsequent hair loss. Bacterial or fungal skin infections, as well as dermatitis, can also cause these symptoms. It's important to note that incessant scratching can lead to secondary infections, exacerbating the problem. Therefore, prompt veterinary attention is essential to identify the cause and start suitable treatment. German Shepherd hair growth medicine Medicine to promote hair growth in German Shepherds is often used to treat underlying causes of hair loss, like hormonal imbalances or skin infections. Always consult a vet before starting any treatment. When promoting hair growth, addressing the root cause of hair loss is key. Certain medications can help if your German Shepherd's hair loss is due to health conditions like hypothyroidism, which can be managed with hormone supplements. In bacterial or fungal skin infections, topical or oral medications can treat the infection and promote hair regrowth. Special shampoos and topical treatments are also designed to soothe the skin and encourage hair growth. However, it's important to remember that each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, so always consult a vet before starting any new treatment. Here are some of the most popular and most effective medicines against hair loss in dogs: Medicine name How it works Levothyroxine This synthetic thyroid hormone treats hypothyroidism, a common cause of hair loss. By restoring hormonal balance, hair growth is promoted. Ketoconazole An antifungal medication used to treat fungal skin infections. Clearing the infection can allow for hair to regrow. Omega-3 Supplements These support skin health and can help manage allergies, reducing inflammation and promoting hair regrowth. Aloe Vera-Based Topical Treatments They soothe skin irritation and inflammation, encouraging healthier hair growth. Medicated Shampoos These can treat a variety of skin conditions, reducing itching and promoting hair growth. Home remedies against dog hair loss: Home remedy How it works Omega-3 Rich Foods Adding foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil or flaxseeds, can improve skin health, reduce inflammation and promote hair regrowth. Coconut Oil Applied topically, coconut oil can soothe skin irritation and inflammation, moisturizing the skin and encouraging healthier hair growth. Regular Brushing Brushing stimulates the skin and hair follicles, promotes healthy oil distribution, and can encourage hair growth. Apple Cider Vinegar Diluted apple cider vinegar can soothe itchy skin and improve skin health, promoting hair regrowth. Aloe Vera Natural aloe vera can be applied to the skin to soothe irritation and inflammation, encouraging hair growth. Balanced Homemade Diet A diet full of necessary nutrients including protein, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health, including hair growth. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on the back legs? Hair loss on a German Shepherd's back legs could indicate allergies, parasites, dermatitis, or hormonal imbalances. Getting a vet's examination is crucial to pinpoint the exact cause and treatment. Expanding on this, it's not uncommon for dogs to lose hair on specific body parts. If your German Shepherd is losing hair on its back legs, it could be due to various reasons. Allergies often lead to itching and scratching, which may result in hair loss in the affected areas. Parasites such as fleas or mites usually infest areas where the fur is thinner, like the back legs, leading to hair loss. Dermatitis, caused by irritants or infections, can also cause hair loss in specific areas. Lastly, hormonal imbalances from conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease can result in uneven hair loss. A thorough veterinary examination is essential to diagnose the cause accurately and begin the appropriate treatment plan. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on his tail? Hair loss on your German Shepherd's tail can indicate various issues, from flea infestations to dermatitis or allergies. It's crucial to seek a veterinary diagnosis to understand the cause. Going into more detail, hair loss on the tail might be due to flea infestations, as the tail base is a favorite spot for these parasites. Flea allergy dermatitis, resulting from an allergic reaction to flea saliva, can also cause hair loss. Other possibilities include localized dermatitis caused by irritants, infections, or allergies leading to excessive licking and chewing of the tail, which can cause hair loss. Tail hair loss could also signify a hormonal imbalance or an underlying systemic disease. A thorough check-up with a vet is the best course of action to identify the cause and start the appropriate treatment. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on his ears? Hair loss in a German Shepherd's ears may be due to parasites, allergies, or infections. An accurate diagnosis from a veterinarian is vital for appropriate treatment and prevention. Diving deeper, parasites like mites or fleas can cause hair loss in the ears. Ear mites, in particular, are common culprits. Allergies can also cause your German Shepherd to scratch or rub his ears excessively, leading to hair loss. Fungal or bacterial infections are another common cause of hair loss in the ears. These infections can cause itching, inflammation, and hair loss. Moreover, hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss on various body parts, including the ears. As always, consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The best German Shepherd grooming tools Good grooming tools are vital for German Shepherds due to their double coat , which requires regular maintenance. Proper tools prevent matting, reduce excessive shedding, distribute natural oils, and allow for early detection of skin issues, ensuring the dog's coat remains healthy, shiny, and comfortable. Below, you can find the most popular and favorite choice of grooming tools for German Shepherd dogs: Final words Hair loss in German Shepherds is a common concern for many pet owners. While shedding is a natural process that occurs twice a year, excessive hair loss could signal underlying health problems, ranging from poor nutrition to allergies, parasitic infections, hormonal imbalances, and more. Identifying the root cause is crucial to provide the right treatment and care for your German Shepherd. A balanced diet, regular grooming, veterinary check-ups, and proper care can minimize hair loss. If other concerning symptoms accompany your dog's hair loss, seeking veterinary advice is vital. Remember, every German Shepherd is unique, and understanding their individual needs will help them lead healthier and happier life. Frequently asked questions Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here! German Shepherds typically shed the most during the spring and fall months. This is due to them shedding their winter and summer coats to adjust to the changing seasons. However, it can vary depending on the climate and indoor living conditions. Generally, German Shepherds do not require haircuts. Their double coat naturally sheds and renews. Cutting their hair could interfere with their temperature regulation. Regular brushing to remove loose hairs and prevent matting is usually sufficient for their grooming needs. Signs of skin allergies in dogs may include itching, redness, swelling of the skin, and hair loss. The dog may also excessively scratch, lick, or chew the affected areas. Yes, German Shepherds can have skin problems. These may include allergies, dermatitis, parasitic infestations, and hormonal imbalances. Such issues can lead to symptoms like itching, redness, sores, and hair loss. Regular vet check-ups can help manage and prevent these conditions. German Shepherds shed throughout the year but can experience increased shedding in the winter as they prepare to grow their thicker coats. Indoor heating can also confuse their natural shedding cycles, potentially leading to more hair loss during winter. In the summer, your German Shepherd is likely shedding its thick winter coat to make way for a lighter summer coat. This natural process, also known as "blowing the coat," helps the dog regulate body temperature and adapt to warmer weather. The German Shepherd is known for its supreme intelligence, family friendly demeanor and extreme loyalty. But their physical attributes stand out as well. But sometimes GSDs will develop bald spots or lose their hair. And often times the cause may not be immediately evident. It is good to know what may cause the balding so that you can get a jump on the diagnosis and treatment. There are plenty of different reasons for bald spots on your German Shepherd. Usually there is an underlying cause that may not be super evident. Allergies: Allergies are frequently the cause of balding or hair loss on a German Shepherd. They can be triggered by a number of different elements in the environment. They cause a reaction on the skin or atopic dermatitis. Some of the most common environmental allergies are dust, mold, or pollen. Food allergies are a little less common. The immune response can be facial swelling, hives, itchiness and or diarrhea and vomiting. These include beef, chicken, corn, eggs, milk, soy or wheat. Fleas are the most common allergy affecting German Shepherds and most other dog breeds. It only takes one flea to cause an allergic reaction. When the flea bites the dog, the release a small amount of saliva into the wound. The proteins in the saliva cause an allergic reaction. This will cause the area to itch in dogs that are sensitive. This is why it is so important to use flea prevention. It is caused when the hormone cortisol is overproduced due to a tumor being present in the pituitary gland. Typically, they will lose hair around the abdomen close to the rear legs, neck or perineum. One of the first and most obvious signs of this disease is frequent thirst and urination to the point that they want to go out during the night to relieve themselves. Normally this disease affects dogs later in life once they have reached the 6-year mark. If you think your GSD may have this condition, take them to the vet immediately. They will perform blood and urine test to diagnose this adrenal issue. Hot Spots: Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, is a fairly common skin condition that affects German Shepherds along with lots of other breeds. They start with an itch from an allergic reaction, bug bite, wound etc and intensify because the dog proceeds to chew and lick the infected area making it worse over time. This can lead to bald spots or hair loss in that area. There is a device called the Lick Sleeve that protects the area from over licking. Dog breeds like the GSD and Golden Retriever tend to be more susceptible because of their thick coats. The hot spot will be fairly large in size and look inflamed, raw and sore. It will usually be wet from licking and possible ooze blood or a yellow pus. If not treated, the hot spot can become infected and start to smell bad. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are usually used to combat the itching and treat the secondary infection caused by the bacteria in the skin. Mange: Another cause of bald spots or hair loss in dogs is mange. This skin disease is common in stray dogs that have been abandoned or neglected by their owners. There are two types of mange in dogs. Demodectic Mange: Demodex or red mange is the most common form of the skin disease even though it is fairly rare in dogs. It is caused by mites that are found on all dogs and subsequently humans as well. It is not contagious. But sometimes in puppies, a breakout will occur. The first sign is usually a bald spot the size of a quarter up to a half dollar. It typically surfaces around the face and head area. It usually responds well to treatment such as amitraz or sulfurated lime which eliminates the mites and treats the skin infection. In extremely rare cases, a German Shepherd can get generalized demodectic mange. It is hereditary and much more dangerous. This type of mange is life threatening because the dog develops large bald spots all over the body which get infected. Sarcoptic Mange: Sarcoptic mange on the other hand is contagious. This skin infection is caused by the parasitic mite called Sarcoptes scabei. Most of the time, a German Shepherd will catch the infection after coming into direct contact with someone that is infected. Signs of this type of mange include extreme itching, bald spots, and red scaly skin. It normally targets areas such as the abdomen, ear flaps and elbows. Diagnosis is straight forward and normally skin scrapings can find the little culprits. Several different types of treatments are available depending on the breed. Pressure Sores Pressure sores can lead to balding or hair loss in older or disabled dogs. Similar to bed sores in humans, GSDs can form these sores from lying in the same position for long periods of time. This is especially the case when the dog has lost the sensation in their front and back legs. They can also form due to weakness when the sit down. Instead of slowly sitting down, they plop down to fast causing an injury to an elbow or hip. Originally pressure sores are topical wounds only affecting the upper layers of their skin. But when there is repeated pressure placed on the damaged area, the blood vessels get constricted and decubital ulcers form. This makes it hard for the skin to get its oxygen. Ultimately the skin will die if left untreated. Look for these symptoms: areas on the bony parts of your GSD that are filled with fluid, constant licking of the sores, discoloration of the skin, patches of hair loss or red skin, stained hair near the wound, ulcers or wounds that are purple, red or leaking puss. Take your dog to the vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Pressure sores can be very hard to treat once they are formed. The best way to avoid them is prevention. Ringworm: Ringworm is another frequent cause of bald spots on German Shepherds. Normally the hair loss will appear in circular shaped areas all over the dog. Although not life threatening, it is very contagious and spreads when a dog comes into contact with animals or people that are already infected. It can also be spread through common household objects such as a bed, carpet, chair, couch or food bowls. It is transferred through broken or shed hairs. Once the fungal spores are left on an object, they can remain transferable for up to a year and a half. This is because the hair follicles are extremely fragile and break off easily. This causes it to spread easier. Skin Rash: A skin rash, or hives can stem from several different causes. Usually, they will appear in localized patches. The skin will be itchy, red and swollen. This can lead to possible balding or hair loss because a dog will be itching and scratching the affected area. Some of the causes can include: allergies, environment, genetics, intestinal worms, medication, stress or vaccinations. Here is a full list of causes to help you determine the culprit if you think your dog may have a rash developing. Rashes will appear quickly after being exposed to a certain trigger and can make your GSD very uncomfortable. If left untreated, a simple rash can turn into a skin infection. If you find any bald spots or hair loss on your GSD, the best thing to do is to take them to your local veterinarian. A vet can examine your dog to determine any underlying cause. Several different tests can be used depending on the signs and symptoms you describe. They will look at the specific pattern of hair loss along with the condition of the skin surrounding the bald area. They may also take into account the amount of itching and scratching. Some of the tests may include: Allergy tests: They can narrow down the specific type of allergen affecting your dog using blood or skin testing. They may also use elimination of certain potential allergens to find the cause. Impression smears: A microscopic slide is pressed against the affected area to look for certain problems close-up. They look for bacteria, inflamed cells or yeast. It will produce hair follicles which can be examined on a slide to check for mites which can cause mange. In Closing: Hopefully this article gave you a better idea of why your German Shepherd may have bald spots or a loss of hair. Keep in mind that these are the main causes. There could be other explanations. Be aware of any other symptoms and contact your local vet for assistance. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any personal experience with balding on your GSD? Let us know! We would love to hear your story! Share this:. Some hair loss patterns suggest health problems that, in most cases, should be addressed by a veterinarian. Dog experts can distinguish between shedding, a natural cycle of hair development, and fur loss caused by health, dietary, and environmental factors. A variety of factors can cause atypical fur loss in German Shepherds. A healthy balanced diet provides a consistent supply of essential nutrients. As such, a poor diet lacking nutrients will cause hair loss. When your dog is losing more water than he is taking in, it compromises healthy blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, including the skin. The resulting loss of skin elasticity makes the fur easily fall out. Consider getting a dog water fountain, such as the Petsafe Drinkwell from Amazon, that encourages your dog to drink. I particularly like this one as it has two tiers and includes carbon filters to remove bad taste and odors from the water. Parasites, ticks, lice, and fleas. A benign tumor causes this in the pituitary, which prompts excessive production of the stress hormone cortisol, which causes hair loss in dogs. Some symptoms of hypothyroidism include increased shedding, hair loss, and thinning. Underdeveloped hair follicles. This can be congenital even though not necessarily hereditary. The hair follicles fail to develop as they should, causing patchy or general hair loss. Behavioral problems. High levels of stress and anxiety, such as separation anxiety or OCD, can cause your German Shepherd to chew its hair and skin, leaving patches. This condition is known as acral lick dermatitis. Parasites and other allergic conditions can also cause it. Skin trauma. Skin trauma such as bacterial and fungal infections, food and other allergies, some pet medications like steroids, inflammatory disease, and burns can cause excessive shedding. Temporary fur loss can also happen during pregnancy, lactation, or while convalescing. Whatever the cause of abnormal hair loss, it is important that your vet makes an accurate diagnosis. Nonetheless, remedies and preventive measures for unnatural hair loss are similar to controlling excessive seasonal shedding. Read about these measures later in the article. Welcome to the German Shepherd shedding season! German Shepherds shed the most in the fall and spring. They shed most of their undercoat during September, October, and November and replace it with a thicker, warmer winter coat. They will then shed their old winter undercoat during March, April, and May, making room for a lighter summer coat. This prepares them for the cold winter months ahead. Spring shedding is also within the norm among German Shepherds. This time, the breed sheds most of its thick undercoat to allow a lighter, thinner version to better cope with the summer heat. Having established that the German Shepherd sheds all year round and undergoes excessive shedding in the fall and spring, you may wonder how you can get your German Shepherd to stop shedding… To get your German Shepherd to stop shedding, brush him daily, use an undercoat de-shedding tool in shedding season, twice per week, bathe him times a year, switch to a healthy diet that promotes a healthy coat and skin, keep him hydrated, and keep parasites at bay. Good Hair Grooming Good fur grooming is your best bet when it comes to coping with excessive shedding in your German Shepherd. German Shepherds are categorized according to their outer coat as medium-length normal or long-haired. This variation in hair length also means a difference in hair grooming, especially when brushing and de-matting. I recommend a de-matting tool to remove any mats or tangles for longer-haired German Shepherds. Ideally, choose an adjustable tool to work on all coat lengths for the safe removal of matted fur. Three key aspects of hair grooming during the heavy shedding seasons for both varieties are important; hair brushing, de-shedding, and regular bathing. Hair Brushing and Deshedding Usually, two or three times a week is enough to brush your German Shepherd. For a thorough brushing, brush in the direction the coat grows to eradicate loose dead hair. You should de-shed your German Shepherd times per week to help remove the undercoat before it falls away, leaving clumps scattered all over your home! The brush has a non-slip handle and a self-clean button that retracts the bristles, so the removed fur easily falls off, and your brush is ready for the next grooming session. The tool has an ejector button that you press to release the fur magically, and the handle is ergonomic for easy grooming and comfortable handling. You can choose either a long hair tool or a short hair one. My German Shepherd with her FURminator undercoat de-shedding tool Like me, if you like the FURminator brand, they also have a grooming rake ideal for thick fur and dense double coats. You can check out my favorite three Furminator grooming tools here. Regular Baths With Dog Shampoo An occasional bath once in a while is good enough for the German Shepherd as they are naturally clean and tend to be odor-free. However, I suggest a couple of extra baths in the heavy shedding season to help reduce hair loss, as bathing your dog rids the coat of dead hair. Three or four times a year is a general opinion. Always use dog shampoo when bathing. But if your dog is not fed a healthy diet, the shedding will be worse. To keep shedding in the normal, always feed your GSD with high-quality food. This implies the right amounts of protein, fats, carbohydrates and fiber, vitamins, minerals, and of course, water. Healthy, nutritious dog food contains meat, grains, vegetables, and fruits. As large-sized high-energy dogs, German Shepherds require a protein-rich diet. This means that your dog still can live a happy, fulfilling life even with these medical challenges. If so, they might have pressure sores. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or decubital ulcers, occur most often in senior dogs, large breeds, or heavy breeds. These calluses lead to thicker skin and hair loss. Older and heavier dogs are more likely to experience pressure sores simply because they are less active and oftentimes have less muscle mass. Although sometimes tricky, these sores can be prevented, and the symptoms can be alleviated. Genetics Just like with humans, genetics plays a role in hair loss in dogs. Other dog breeds simply experience patchy hair or baldness on different parts of their body, such as the chest, back, thigh, or neck. Typically, this type of hair loss occurs after the dog reaches one year old. Infection or Infestation These words sound scary, and the resulting hair loss or skin conditions can look even scarier. Hair loss from infection or infestation can be caused by ringworm fungus, mange mites, fleas, parasites, ticks, and bacteria. In fact, fleas and mites are oftentimes the most common culprits behind hair loss and allergic reactions. These pests cause irritation, which is often misdiagnosed as an allergic reaction resulting in unnecessary treatments such as steroids. While many dogs will lick, bite, and scratch at the infected skin, resulting in wide-spread hair loss, there are additional signs and symptoms to watch out for. Some signs your dog might be experiencing an infection or infestation are as follows: Hair loss around the ears, eyes, and mouth Oily skin.

Rest assured when purchasing a dog from us that years of breeding and training experience have gone into the development and selection of your German shepherd dog or puppy. Black, Dark Sables, as well as Red and Black German shepherd male and female puppies are available by reservation. Martin Z. Riverside is over an hour drive from me in the valley, but; the puppies that come from the breeder are worth the drive and more! My all black German Shepard "Sirius" is an absolute dream! The breeder and his family truly care for the dogs and their upbringing. Arsalaan constantly checks in to see how me and Sirius are doing and is there to answer any questions you may have. Whether it's your first dog or not give him a call! He'll walk you through the steps and be there with you for guidance. Gavin U. Arsalaan and his family are very kind, caring breeders! When I first reached out to him, he was very quick with a response and easy to communicate with. He truly takes great pride in his pups and is very helpful to answer any questions that may arise. I brought Bear home with me on Dec 16 and he was nice, clean, and healthy upon pick up. Arsalaan provided Bear's list of shots as well as his pedigree and some other additional documents. You will not be disappointed working with him, highly recommend him and his family to help you bring home your newest family member! Mitchell K. Very responsible breeder, I came from Arizona and couldn't be happier. Very helpful before and after receiving my puppy. I highly recommended. Jimmy M. I call Arsalaan whenever I have questions and he is always very helpful with training tips and advice. I get a lot compliments on her looks. Elvia B. I am so grateful for all of the help I got from Arsalaan, and we also appreciate him following up on our puppy "Rexie". He's given us great advice even before we decided to get Rexie. Although he's up north about a 90 minute drive from us, it was definitely worth it. He kept our puppy even after her 8 weeks we couldn't bring her home because it was a Christmas gift. When I took Rexie to her first vet visit the vet said " this breeder definitely knows what he's doing ". Rexie came with up to date vaccinations and AKC forms paid for just have to finish writing them up. Our new family member is a happy and healthy puppy! Plus she sleeps through the night quietly from day one. Amazing Thank you Arsalaan. Their dogs live in roomy kennels and are raised in an environment fit for a growing puppy. In addition, the breeder has more than 30 years of experience in breeding German Shepherds. So, you can be assured that you are getting one of the best puppies. The puppies are socialized at an early stage. They grow up around family members, children, and other dogs, so they can easily adjust to their new homes. Moreover, all the puppies are up-to-date on the vaccinations and have been dewormed several times. The adoption process for getting your new best friend is relatively easy. The breeder starts taking deposits for puppies once a female is pregnant. So, you can find information regarding their upcoming litters on their website. The deposit will be transferred to another litter if you cannot get a puppy of your choice. Their dogs have superb conformation, high work drive, good temperament, and great genetics. The breeder takes excellent care to ensure their dogs are healthy and free from genetic diseases. So, they only breed dogs that pass different health tests. All dogs are certified with the OFA for hips, heart, and elbow issues. Sentinel Harts is an easy choice for German Shepherd puppies for sale in California because of their experience, high standard, and excellent customer service. Visit their website to view upcoming and available litter, and if you like a puppy, register your interest by filling out their application form and submitting a reservation fee. German Shepherd Breeder Information:. She had fleas and ticks and was starving. Ellie has now had surgery and is healing still in a cast and beginning to thrive. At first… The shelter sent us a request to help little Phoebe. She was found abandoned and alone with no water or food. She had parasites of every kind, including Sarcoptic Mange — highly contagious to other animals and to people. She was terrified… Abandoned and sick, uncared for puppies like Kenny and Nita who where undernourished, had a very high parasite load, and whose small bodies were starved for nutrition, found themselves in the shelter with a triple whammy. They were literally filled with parasites, they were boney and congested and had no other options beside rescue. She was 4 months old but the size of a 2 month old puppy, she was starved and in terrible condition. She was also in pain and having trouble… Samantha was a 3 month old puppy who was callously discarded like trash. Dumped in a shopping center, she watched her family drive away. A shopkeeper called animal control and Samantha landed in our safety net. And as if in… Our big beautiful youngster Rocky has left his sad past behind and gone to a brand new life of being adored! Congratulations to Rocky and his new family, and many thanks to your foster family! Skye is happily adopted and living the good life in her forever home. Thanks to all who helped her! Skye urgently needs our help. This 3 month old baby husky came to us today from the shelter with two broken… Our super sweet Petey got his forever home! He came to SCGSR needing emergency surgery, we patched him up, then he needed a special surgery for his neuter.

With over 20 years of experience, we have shared our Labradoodle Puppies with families across this Country, and around the world. As an Authentic Australian Labradoodle Breeder, we offer our Riverbend Australian Labradoodle puppies in Miniature sizes lbs , Medium sizes 45lbs , and Standard sizes lbs. Because of our years of experience and success with our English Style Labrador Retriever Breeding Program , our Riverbend Labradoodles are stocky, heavy-boned, and have a beautiful, blocky style of head that gives them a soft, intuitive expression. We are so blessed to be involved with a fantastic Worldwide Labradoodle Breed organization, bringing together nearly Breeders from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia that are dedicated to protecting the breed we love so much. We are honored at the opportunity to help protect and promote the breed we love so much with our participation in these organizations. Our commitment to quality and accountability to these organizations offers peace of mind in purchasing one of our Australian Labradoodle puppies. Our Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding, and we are dedicated to helping people with allergies add to their family. Our Labradoodles are known to have a laid- back, easy-going temperament, and are great family companions. They are intelligent and easy to train, and typically finish at the top of their obedience classes. Here at Riverbend, we have made it our focus to protect the health and future, while maintaining the integrity, of the Labradoodle breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to Quality, not quantity. We believe it is of utmost importance to have OFA hip, OFA elbow, ACVO eye clearances, and also breed specific health clearances, as well as Champion Quality pedigrees within all of our dogs' bloodlines, to ensure we have the healthiest Labradoodle Puppies possible. Take a look at Our Dogs. All of our Riverbend puppies are raised in our home for proper socialization and handling from birth. Our home is designed for our puppies to live with us, so we can provide a healthy environment, to build the foundation that will help them grow to their full potential. Paying attention to how a puppy grows, from the day he is born, is important for the very health and vitality of each puppy. And, we believe that the first eight weeks of a puppy's life, is of vital importance in determining his later behavior as an adult. We share our Australian Labradoodle Puppies with loving caring families, and you can be confident that our puppies are handled continuously, are exposed to our everyday life, and everyday noises, to create a positive social experience that will enable them to become lifelong companions. We hope that you enjoy our website and find it easy to navigate, helpful, informative, and fun. If you have any questions or would like more information about this fantastic breed, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We love sharing our Riverbend Labradoodles with others, and welcome all inquiries concerning them. Support an American Company and Small Business! We are confident these products are the best for your furry family member and we refuse to use anything else! I grew up with dogs in our family from a very early age, and always wanted to have a career involving dogs! I went to university to become an Elementary School Teacher and later found myself in Mansfield Ohio with my husband Marc to raise our two children. In , an opportunity to become a dog groomer presented itself, and since then I have developed a successful mobile dog grooming business serving the Mansfield, Ohio area and I decided to retire from teaching in .Our first dog together was Jasmine, a Golden Retriever. Since Jasmine, we've had a couple other wonderful dogs but our love for Labradoodles started when we purchased Layla, an F1b Labradoodle. She stole our hearts and put into motion researching the breed that turned into Providence Labradoodles. This breed is extremely clever, sociable, comical and joyful! They are energetic when free, and quiet when handled. They approach people in a happy, friendly manner and make amazing therapy and service dogs as they are keen to learn and easy to train. Their amazing qualities made it very easy to concentrate only on breeding this wonderful breed! Our puppies, like our dogs, are raised in our home with lots of human contact. Our puppies are started with a focus in socialization, constant love and a nuturing environment to ensure that they will have loving and easy-going dispositions. My goal is to provide a family with a loving companion, whether a house pet, therapy dog or service dog! It is so important to me to raise well rounded and happy puppies that will make wonderful companions. We adhere to high-quality standards when it comes to our breeding dogs. Each breeding dog is carefully chosen, tested for orthopedic conditions outlined by OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals as well as genetic conditions prior to breeding to ensure that our puppies will be healthy. Aside from being healthy, our breeding dogs are loving, kind and have amazing temperments that will be passed down to their offspring! Our Australian Labradoodles are non-shedding, allergy-friendly, and asthma-friendly. They are sweet, smart and provide hours of entertainment! Providence Labradoodles wants the best for all involved. A well-loved, well socialized and well trained puppy promises years of delight. You can read more about our dogs and puppies on the " Meet Our Dogs " page and " Puppies " page. These puppies are a mix between Labradoodles and either an English Cocker Spaniel or an American Cocker Spaniel which means you will be getting the best of all the breeds when it comes to their coat type and temperament. Australian Labradoodles are known to be very intelligent and are one of the more popular breeds for families. Providence Labradoodles pups have playful, gentle, and calm temperaments meaning they would be a great addition to any family with children. Our puppies are all-around happy dogs that just love to be around their families. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Cleveland Heights Ohio and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. We have answers. The cost of Poodles change depending on several things. The experience of the breeder, type of coat, as well as size affects price. Uptown is so great because you can find amazing Poodles to love, and pups you can afford too! Do your breeders arrange travel for Los Angeles Poodles out of state? Without a doubt! M ost of the breeders, businesses and companies in our network really know their stuff when it comes to transporting Poodle pups all over geographically. They are also able to arrange for your Poodle puppy to be sent by plane to the nearest major airport close to you. Our network is also growing by the day, so you may be able to pick up your pup really close by! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Los Angeles? To make sure that the health and wellbeing of your puppy is safeguarded, our standards are very strict when it comes to experience of the breeder, the places where breeding occurs, care of the animals, etc. The internet is easily accessible to anyone and everyone, making it basic for bad breeders, as well as puppy mills, to hurt families who are just looking for a new best friend. We just want to help families that care find honest breeders, companies and businesses who can help give you the Poodle you have always wanted. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Los Angeles? Puppy mills are an absolute nightmare for all the dogs and puppies involved. The mothers are stuck in cages all their lives, their only purpose to give birth to litter after litter. The puppies that come out of puppy mills often have behavioral issues and health problems that can end up costing you thousands in vet bills. These puppies often die at a young age. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Los Angeles for sale now? We will help connect you with the best breeders, companies and businesses based on a variety of preferences, and before you know it, you will have your new best friend, on or by your lap at home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Los Angeles? There are many types of Poodles available. Poodles are very popular and are also incredibly intelligent. Their actual intelligence is just after the Border Collie. They are also highly skillful, able to be dogs that assist, and more! Right now the internet is populated with puppy scams. We aim to create long-term relationships with our Breeder Pledge, screening process and more, with our customers as well as our dog breeders. All you need to do is take a look at our reviews and see all the families and Poodles we have connected and you will see how well our network works!

A poodle is a very active, intelligent and elegant-appearing dog, squarely built, well proportioned, moving soundly and carrying himself proudly. Life for Galavanting Poodles includes hiking, camping, lake and river adventures, as well as backcountry experiences. Outdoor experiences are very important to the growth and well-being of our poodles. Our goal is to raise well-rounded poodles that are equally at home on the sofa as they are in the mountains of Alaska. All of the poodles in our kennel compete in the conformation dog show ring and must earn the title of AKC Champion before being considered for breeding. We use the conformation ring to prove our stock by making certain the poodles we move forward in our Galavanting line are. All puppies at Galavanting Poodles are nurtured through the Puppy Culture program. Puppies are carefully evaluated, both by Melissa as well as outside experts, for temperment, structure and biddability before being placed in their forever homes. Bringing new puppy lives into this world is something we take very seriously. Every puppy is carefully and meticulously planned. The dam and sire of each litter is health tested according to the Poodle Club of America health standards. Puppies Well bred, well raised, well loved We breed poodles with the goal of bringing their natural qualities to perfection Breeding purebred standard poodles is a passion for us at Galavanting Poodles. We are fortunate enough to have access to lovely pedigree lines that date back more than years. Each new litter of poodle puppies that are born in our kennel, strives to improve on the previous generation. We breed to preserve the original standard poodle and its purpose as a companion and helpmate to humans. Our puppies possess the qualities poodles were originally bred to exhibit. They are versatile poodles who are equally at home, binging Netflix, as they are hiking in the backcountry of Alaska. Galavanting puppies are loved all over the world. They lead active lives as valuable family companions, and sporting competitors. They work as service dogs trained to meet the individual and specific needs of their people. They fly in bush planes in Alaska and lounge in brownstones in NYC. If you think you would be a good fit for a puppy from Galavanting Poodles, please fill out the form below to begin the vetting process. Our promise to you is that your Galavanting puppy will be worth it! By Shannon Cutts 1 Comment The white standard Poodle is a particularly striking and memorable coat color. They stand around 15 inches tall and weigh about 70lbs. And although white dogs are in general more likely to be deaf than other colors and occasionally have dermatological issues, their other predispositions to disease are the same. Sometimes the white Poodle is called the white French Poodle, out of a mistaken idea that the Poodle hails from France. This dog was actually first bred in Germany! But the French people love Poodles and have chosen the Poodle as their national dog — hence the nickname. The Poodle is a remarkable sight in any coat color. But there is just something about a white Poodle, especially a white standard Poodle done up in a full show clip complete with pompons! A white Poodle is not an albino Poodle. Albino dogs are actually quite rare, but many dogs have white coats. You can easily tell the difference by looking at eye color. Poodles nearly always have dark-colored eyes, and some light-coated Poodles will have amber eyes. Other standard coat colors include silver, silver beige, red, gray, cream, black, brown, blue, and apricot. Non-standard coat colors include bi-coated Poodles. An example of a bi-coated Poodle might be white and silver or red and white. About White Poodles and Deafness Canine researchers have confirmed a link between white coat color and canine deafness. The Poodle But it does mean that deafness is more likely to occur in white-coated dogs than in other dogs. The Poodle with or without a white coat is one of an estimated 85 dog breeds prone to inherited deafness. The current theories regarding heritable deafness linked to the white coat color include a possible recessive gene and a lack of pigmentation along the inner ear canal. Many deaf dogs and their owners live long and happy lives together with a little help from deaf dog training. White Poodle Dog Shedding and Grooming The white Poodle has the same enviable quality as Poodle dogs of different coat colors: a nearly non-shedding coat. This has given Poodles a reputation as hypoallergenic dogs, although technically they still have the same allergy-triggering protein in their skin, urine, and saliva as do all other dogs. Where the hypoallergenic label comes into play relates to the amount of contact that you, as a Poodle owner, can expect to have with this protein, which can be shed out along with falling fur. This keeps your clean-up chores to a minimum and also minimizes your contact with fur-born protein allergens. If you or someone in your family is sensitive to pet dander, a Poodle could be a good choice for a family pet. Even so, a daily brush will go a long way to keep tangles from forming while removing any trapped debris as well. The white miniature Poodle can weigh up to 15 pounds and stand up to 15 inches tall. The white toy Poodle will weigh four to six pounds and stand no taller than 10 inches. A white teacup Poodle is the smallest Poodle, typically weighing between two and four pounds and standing no taller than eight inches. They are also known as micro Poodles! White Poodle Dog Temperament and Personality To date, there is no confirmed link between the white coat color in Poodles and any differences in temperament or personality. Rather, a white Poodle from a reputable, health-focused breeder will display the same loving, intelligent, and active personality that Poodles as a breed are known for. The white standard Poodle is a top pick for families with young children. The standard Poodle makes a great family watchdog and will be gentle and loving towards their family — children and adults alike. However, a small white Poodle miniature, toy, or teacup size is not generally regarded as a suitable pet dog for families with small children. Smaller Poodles can have a more anxious or high-strung temperament. They tend to poorly tolerate rough play and can also be easily injured if they get underfoot. Training and Socialization The standard Poodle and smaller Poodles miniature, toy, teacup face different challenges during the training and socialization process. This stems from their slightly different natures — the standard Poodle is typically calm and centered unless guarding duties indicate otherwise. A white mini Poodle, white toy Poodle, or white teacup Poodle, on the other hand, may display more anxiety in the presence of strange people, animals, or situations. A white Poodle of any size will benefit greatly from early and ongoing training and socialization, including exposure to unfamiliar people, animals, and situations. This will help your white Poodle learn to be a happy, healthy, productive member of your family and local community. Exercise A white standard Poodle or white small Poodle is an active dog breed. The Poodle breed first gained its start in Germany as a breed meant to assist human hunters with retrieving ducks. These dogs are great swimmers! They are also all-around excellent athletes and excel at pretty much any type of canine sports, including dock diving, agility, obedience, tracking, and other sports. Poodles also love to play, with games of fetch being a particular breed favorite. A white Poodle of any size will thrive with lots of daily activity. For smaller Poodles, be sure to modify activities to account for their shorter legs and smaller size. White Standard Poodle Health Issues Not all known breed-specific health issues can be detected before you make a lifelong commitment to a white Poodle or a Poodle with any coat color. A white standard Poodle, like other large dog breeds that have deep chests, is at risk to develop bloat gastric torsion. Bloat occurs when the stomach twists, and it can quickly become fatal. Smaller white Poodle dogs are not typically at risk for bloat. Standard Poodles should be tested for hip dysplasia and eye issues. Cardiac and thyroid function tests are also highly recommended. Standard Poodle Puppoes Be prepared to make a substantial investment if you choose a white Poodle of any size. Choosing a White Poodle Puppy The best approach when selecting your new white baby Poodle is to look for a healthy, energetic, curious, and friendly Poodle puppy. Whether you are choosing a puppy from a litter of white standard Poodle puppies, or you have your eye on a white mini Poodle or white toy Poodle puppy, be sure the breeder you work with can show proof that all required genetic health tests and vaccinations have been done. Resources James et al. Strain, G. Lee, C. White Poodles are classified as light to non-shedders. They will drop a few strands of hair here and there throughout the year but will not undergo heavy seasonal shedding like other breeds. Are White Poodles Hypoallergenic? White Poodles, like all other Poodle coat colors and patterns, are considered to be hypoallergenic as they do not produce or release much allergy inducing dander into their immediate environment. Sometimes smaller sizes of Poodle such as Toy Poodles are considered to be more hypoallergenic than other Poodle sizes as smaller dogs produce less dander than larger dogs. You can make your dog even more hypoallergenic by keeping up a good grooming routine as it will stop them from releasing allergens into your home. A brush down with a slicker brush every other day is ideal to remove any loose hairs. As for washing, a bath with a gentle dog shampoo every 3 months will remove dead skin cells, dirt and debris. They get to a height of up to 10 inches .Are White Toy Poodles Rare? White Toy Poodles are not that rare despite the coat color being a recessive trait. There are many other coat colors that are quite rare for Toy Poodles like apricot, red and sable. They are 10 to 15 inches .They are 18 to 24 inches .Toy Poodles are fully grown between 6 and 7 months of age. Mini Poodles are fully grown between 7 and 12 months of age. An adult sized dog raincoat to keep them dry during wet weather An adult sized dog life jacket to help with swimming in lakes and oceans An adult sized dog jacket for cold winter weather A dog cooling vest if you live in a hot climate High quality no-pull dog harness to reduce stress on their neck while walking And other similar products.