german shepherd puppy for sale los angeles

german shepherd puppy for sale los angeles

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases. Checking out their history, coat color, grooming, behavior, health and breed traits. German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are growing in popularity, because they combine the reserved protective nature of the German Shepherd with the friendly exuberance of the Labrador Retriever. Watch a German Shepherd Lab mix puppy grow up! What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a designer breed, a cross between a purebred Labrador and a purebred German Shepherd. Their other names include Lab Shepherd mix, and Sheprador. This is usually a medium sized breed, that is friendly, active, and intelligent. Looking at the parent breeds can help us get an idea. Popularity: An up and coming mixed breed! Purpose: Companion or working dogs. Weight: Up to 90 pounds. Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, protective. To get a better understanding of this mix, we need to learn about its parent breeds and where they came from. There, smaller dogs used for waterfowl hunting were mated with Newfoundlands. Just like their water-faring ancestors, modern Labs are used as hunting dogs and even service dogs. And as we mentioned previously, they are incredibly popular family pets. The breed was developed as the perfect herding or guide dog that was strong enough to endure the toughest of conditions. Eventually, Shepherds became popular military and police dogs, and the breed was recognized by the AKC as a member of the herding group in .They are extremely popular as police dogs, guard dogs, and service dogs, too. There is often a strong hint of both Lab and Shepherd, with a German Shepherd-like dark saddle markings and ears that are typically neither erect like a Shepherd, nor fully dropped like a Lab. Often, but not always! One thing we can predict more reliably is size. Lab Shepherd Mix Size A common deciding factor when it comes to purchasing a dog is the potential for full-grown size. A Lab Shepherd mix will always be medium- to large-sized dog. A Labrador German Shepherd cross can weigh up to 90 pounds and measure up to 26 inches tall at the shoulder once fully grown. Most will be between pounds and inches tall. This is quite a sizable pet to accomodate in your home! German Shepherd Lab Mix Colors As mentioned previously, it is hard to predict the exact physical characteristics of a hybrid puppy. Or they may more closely resemble just one of their parents. Generally speaking, these mixes can be solid-colored. Or they may resemble the Shepherd with its characteristic black markings on the face, back, and legs. Traditional Colors But not necessarily! Due to the way their genes are carried, a German Shepherd black Lab mix could, however, also potentially be another traditional Lab color. Not to mention white, as German Shepherds can be sometimes. Looking for a yellow Lab mix? Just remember that the color of the parents does not guarantee the color of the pup. Or something in between! Additionally, both the Lab and Shepherd have double coats. A double coat means a soft undercoat is below the rough top coat. So their hybrid offspring will also exhibit a double coat. Even more so during shedding season! Both of these breeds can be prolific shedders. So as a Lab Shepherd mix owner you will need to invest in a good grooming tool as well as a good pet hair vacuum! They will be a clever dog, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. But their watchdog and guard dog traits will vary from pup to pup. Preparing to bring a dog into your home? The Labrador and German Shepherd hybrid is a mix of two breeds. Therefore you can only guess what his temperament will be. This is true even when taking the general temperament of his parents into consideration. Since Shepherds are popular police dogs, they are often portrayed as vicious attack dogs. They are not usually randomly aggressive dogs, but can be protective. Socialization in this manner will help a Lab Shepherd mix puppy to feel comfortable, thereby reducing their need to guard their property or family. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes friendly? On the other end of the spectrum, the Labrador Retriever is a typically good-natured but sometimes excitable dog. You must note that with any mixed breed, the temperament of a hybrid dog or puppy may more closely resemble that of one parent breed than the other parent breed. When breeding for a German Shepherd with a Labrador, the traits and personality characteristics of their Lab Shepherd mix puppies will be hard to predict. You will therefore most likely gain a puppy who is clever, and requires lots of mental and physical stimulation every day. Long walks, lots of retrieving games and training is essential for a German Shepherd Lab mix throughout their lives. Best Training Methods It is very important to use positive reinforcement training methods with breeds such as German Shepherds and Lab Shepherd mixes. These smart cookies work really well when rewarded for their efforts, and can make exceptionally fun training partners. These breeds are both also know for the strong bonds they form with their families. German Shepherd Lab Mix Exercise You will need to commit to exercising and training your mix every day, come rain or shine. When considering welcoming this mixed breed into your home, you should plan for lots of walking, running, and playing. Or they may develop various issues as they age. A few common canine ailments include hip dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. However, hybrid dogs like Black Lab and German Shepherd mixes may inherit the conditions that their parents are prone to. For instance, both GSDs and Labs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. This will determine what health conditions they may pass on to their offspring. Furthermore, it is very important that you make sure that both parents have good hip and elbow scores and clear eye certificates less than a year old. A hybrid puppy typically has the same life span as its parents. So the Sheprador mix can be expected to live for approximately 10 to 14 years. Both German Shepherds and Labradors are larger breeds, so a Sheprador puppy will definitely need some space to stretch his legs. Your dog will need a large secure backyard. Your German Shepherd Lab mix pup will also need company! Labradors in particular do not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. Neither of these breeds are well suited to homes where people are out during the day. What do German Shepherd Lab mix puppies need? Labs are very bouncy puppies who love to chew. German Shepherds require intense socialization to reduce the possibility of their guarding you or your property. Both parent breeds have dense double coats that require weekly grooming at minimum. In short, this mix could be a good family dog if its parents have been health-tested. And if you have the time, energy and space to commit to socializing, training and exercising them well. She understood many words and could swim, play ball and balance on a beam. She loved people and other creatures but was ready to stand her ground if necessary. Teagen is almost 7 now. He is always happy, loves everyone and will kiss you forever if you let him! We rescued Teagen from a shelter when he was 9 months old and he became an instant part of our family! Teagen is small for his mix of breeds he weighs less than 60 lbs. This is one of her newborn babies who we named March" "This is Russell. He is walked on a regular basis , and loves to play fetch. I took this picture during our rare white winter here in Virginia in the front yard. He was brought home by my wife after her visit to a girlfriend's house over the holidays. I did not know what to expect, but I have no complaints about our ol' man. She gets very excited to see anyone and is very lovable. She likes tearing the stuffing out of her toys before she'll play with them. Once in a while she will get into the garbage and chew things she's not supposed to. She has an insane ball drive and as such is incredibly easy to train. She is great with other dogs and with people including kids. Loves chasing a ball into the water and is eager to please. Her double coat requires a good brushing at least every week in the summer time, but she tends to stop shedding in winter. Not really an apartment dog. This dog will keep you busy!! He weighed over 90 pounds before he was a year old. He is a total sweetheart who thinks he's a lap dog even though he lives outside. He is not high energy, but seems to prefer lying around on the porch. He is full of curiosity and loves water. He is smart and playful, but is a great large indoor dog at the same time. Ace has the coat, loyalty and guarding ability of a German Shepherd, but the gentleness, energy and goofiness of a black Lab. He is 10 years old and weighs approximately 70 lbs. We love our Acey boy. Exceptionally trainable and obedient dog. Two of the best breeds rolled into one. She was 2 months old in this picture and was already getting big! We adopted her from our local SPCA. Her and her sisters were found as babies in a dumpster. She is very peaceful and loves to lie on a blanket on the floor at my feet. As a puppy she did not like to be outside alone and peed a little when she met someone new. I look forward to seeing how beautiful both Luna and Ally become. We were lucky enough to find him at a rescue league when he was eight weeks old. He brightens up our lives every day, he is a social, well-behaved, and loyal dog.Great addition to our family!!!

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These Doods make equally great family companions and therapy or service dogs. Most importantly, do your research and lots of it! Although Bernedoodles are generally considered healthier than their purebred Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents, the key to producing healthy and genetically sound litters is extensive health testing beforehand. Secondly, ethical Bernedoodle breeders in Wisconsin can confidently back their breeding programs with health guarantees. A good health guarantee should cover any serious or life threatening genetic conditions typically for the first one or two years from adoption, sometimes even more. As a home breeder, they have their parent dogs and puppies living right there inside their home. In addition to early socialization , Lake Poygan Bernedoodles starts their puppies on basic commands and even grooming. They move the pups around the house to introduce them to a variety of sights and sounds, and they even implement the Early Neurological Stimulation method ENS. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Lake Poygan Bernedoodles is a member breeder of Good Dog and they follow responsible breeding practices. They carefully select their parent dogs based on their health and genetic testing results. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. It is our great honor to be given the opportunity to raise your best friend! I have almost ten years of experience raising, grooming, and training puppies. This means that your puppy will receive the best care, including tons of hugs and kisses, until the very moment that they reach your family's loving arms! We truly believe that an amazing dog can make a lifelong impact on their family's life. That's why it's so important to us to give our puppies the best start possible! The first step to this process, is our careful selection of the parent's of our Bernedoodle puppies. Each parent dog is specifically chosen for their outstanding temperaments and receives health testing. This helps to ensure that each and every puppy has a wonderful personality and will have excellent health. All of our puppies and dogs live in our home with us so that we can give them the proper love that they deserve. This also means that our puppies are exposed to many different sounds and textures before going home. Giving puppies a wide range of exposure to different things helps them to feel more comfortable and confident when confronted with new situations throughout their life. Another step we take to raise the most outstanding puppies, is to give each puppy Early Neurologic Stimulation ENS every day from three days old to sixteen days old. ENS is a series of gentle stimuli that was developed by the US military to improve the performance of military working dogs. It has been shown to enhance a puppy's disease resistance, stress tolerance, adrenal glands, and cardiovascular performance. In addition to giving our puppies the best care possible, taking care of our customers is so important to us! Before you bring home your puppy, and even years after, we will always be here to answer any questions you may have and offer our support. We are so excited to have the opportunity to bring the sweet love of a Bernedoodle puppy into your life! Please have a look around our website and contact us if you have any questions. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. If all goes well, we will have the most exciting pairs and pups for our families just in time for Christmas! If the holidays are hectic, plan ahead and be sure to save a spot in our training program! Our puppy curriculum and enrichment activities are second to none. At CWB our focus is creating confident pups with a head start on training and socialization. We're thrilled to announce the ability to offer additional support and training beyond our extensive 8 week curriculum. We have limited space and availability, so be sure to ask about this when you commit to a specific litter. We have more litters on the way and will fill those off of our waitlist first. With a variety of litters planned, we can offer many different color and size combinations! Our first Berner, Tillie, is the most loving dog we have ever known. We live in Vesper WI on a 60 acre cranberry marsh with our 6 young children and growing dog family! We fell in love with the Bernese Mountain Dog BMD breed after having a heartbreaking experience with our first family dog. When our son was bit by our malamute, we vowed to never again bring a dog into our family that we thought might hurt someone. After years of healing and countless hours of research, we knew we'd found the right breed for our family: the Bernese Mountain Dog. Our first Berner, Tillie, makes anyone who meets her fall in love with the breed. We knew we wanted to add a Standard Poodle to our family after we learned how intelligent, playful, and sweet they are. Our first Poodle, Willow got us completely hooked on the breed! These breeds compliment each other very nicely! Since deciding to expand our small program, we have had the joy of adding additional Berners to our family and love each as much as the last. We have found bernedoodles to be the BEST combination of all the wonderful traits in both our Berneses and our Poodles. Their hypoallergenic nature, slightly smaller and more agile frame is a delightful "middle ground" and makes a truly incredible family pet. Litter News Our Summer Litters have all gone home, with the exception of a couple remaining pups. The updates as they are coming in have been positive and it sounds like they are all adjusting perfectly. We have updated out Litter Plans section on the Adoptions Page , so be sure to check out who has been bred and all their litter details! These pairs are going to be absolute perfection for Alice and Coco, while Sofia's repeat of her earlier litters with King we KNOW will be a dream come true. Be sure to submit your application and reserve your spot on the master list for a chance in these litters. We are really excited to share MORE fun apparel and the ease of ordering directly online! More announcements will be coming as we finalize our online store, so be sure to follow us on Facebook for announcements regarding puppies and clothing if you are interested. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Kaukauna Wisconsin and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! I agree to recieve email communications from Bernedoodle Boutique Our joy is breeding yours. Our mission is to match you with the perfect puppy for your family and lifestyle. Through our adoption process we find out your specific needs and wants and then pair you with a puppy to match. We want to understand what life will look like for a dog in your life so we can recommend a puppy that instinctually will be a great fit for you and the puppy. We love all breeds but most of all we love sharing our passion of producing the healthiest, cutest, best family pets for you! We firmly believe that breed diversification produces the healthiest puppies, and the science supports this. Breed diversification is a very important step in the process to ensuring you have a healthy happy puppy. Plus, we get to love on many types of breeds in the process! All of our breeding dogs are health tested and genetic tested as soon as possible and not bred until we know for sure we are working with healthy dogs. Pairings are selected based on health testing, genetics, size, temperament, and color. Poodles are fun, energetic, smart, and easy to train. Their intelligence can not be overstated: We often say all other dogs are playing checkers and Poodles are playing chess. With their great agility, quick intelligence, and desire to please they were originally bred to be hunting dogs. Poodles are fun-loving dogs and make great family pets. We have absolutely fallen in love with this breed over the years. Bernedoodles are friendly, intelligent, playful, and outgoing. They truly combine the best traits of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle. They tend to be gentle and loyal like the Bernese Mountain Dog and intelligent and playful like the Poodle. They look like teddy bears and are easy to train. Bernedoodles benefit from the longer lifespan of Poodles compared to a standard Bernese Mountain Dog. Cavapoos, also known as a Cavadoodle, make the perfect cuddly couch partner. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their cute and sweet personality. Cavapoos are affectionate and love humans. They have the intelligence of the Poodle, making them easy to train, with all the cuteness of a cuddly little teddy bear. We have frequently have puppies available and would love the opportunity to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle and family. Bernese Mountain Dogs are majestic gentle giants and make excellent family dogs. They are gorgeous and attract attention everywhere they go. Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally bred as an all purpose farm dog used to herd cattle, protect the farm, and pull milk carts. Their ancestors must have worked too hard because the modern Bernese Mountain dog seems happiest laying around and getting love from their owners. Bernese Mountain Dogs love people and thrive on human companionship. Our love for the Bernese Mountain Dog is what got us into breeding in the first place. We believe in providing the best life possible for our breeding dogs. Many of them live with us in our home as family pets being loved on by our family. The Guardian Family receives a puppy to love as their own. During breeding and whelping the dog stays with us; and then goes back home afterwards. To learn more about becoming a Guardian Home click here.

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Puppies for Sale At PuppySpot, we know that our exclusive network of breeders produces the best dogs. Critters' Christmas pc puzzle new Springbok Hallmark baby animals. Get all Classified Ads for a State or for a City. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Email Reset My AccountProcessing. They have had their final vet exam and are ready for their forever home! Very smart puppies with good temperament. Call or text if interested show contact info. We call it our PuppySpot Promise. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details. That's why every puppy for sale is given a complete nose-to-tail checkup before being delivered right to your door. Puppy culture. Adopt a dog in Denver, Colorado. Dogs for Adoption Near Me. If the location is not correct, visit our list of available sites, and choose the most appropriate one. 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Things to do with your English Bulldog Montana is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Montana that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Montana that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Montana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Montana, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Montana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Montana, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Montana has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Montana. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Montana is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Montana? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. The puppies are very playful and are all of absolute temperament as they also love playing with kids and other household animals. Contact us today if you are ready to add a puppy to your family and would like to purchase one of our pups. Contact for more details.And a hand guide that will help you on the basics of taking good care of the puppy. AKC registered all caught up on shots. He is a rare blue color. We don't feel like we can give him the time and attention he needs at this time. He had papers. He is not fixed so he would be a good breeder. He is very sweet and loving with all of my 4 kids. He turned two years old in February. He is very healthy but does need his rabies vaccine. They come with their puppy vaccinations done, registration papers and health records. They are well socialized with a wonderful personality. They are very beautiful, 12 weeks old. The puppies are friendly and like to be with children and other dogs. Good with kids and other pets been wormed and deflected vet checked 1 female 1 male. He is the grandson of champions with many, many more in his pedigree. He is a rolly polly at its finest. He will arrive healthy with a full nose-to-tail vet check, deworming and vaccination schedule. Don't miss out. The puppies are current on shots an have been dewormed and vaccinated. They are well socialized and can do with other home pets xxx xxx-xxx2 View Detail Great English Bulldog Puppies Text xxx xxxxxxx Stunning litter of 6 English bulldog puppies,big boned chunky and wrinkly,these pups have received the best round the clock care in a family home so are used to all the usual noises,mum has 5 generation pedigree and can be seen when viewing the puppies. I'm moving and can't take them with me. Potty trained and knows simple commands; sit, stay, lay down. Age weeks Registered English Bulldog Pups for adoption. Very unique markings. Ready to go to a good loving home. The are potty trained and like to be around kids View Detail English Bulldog Puppies Text xxx xxx-xxx2 Thes are magnificent babies left in this litre. AKC registered, home trained and a perfect mate for both kids and adults not leaving out other home pets. This puppies are fun-loving and will make a great family friend contact us more information Age: 13weeks Contact: xxx xxx-xxx2 View Detail I have to English bulldogs 3 months I have to English bulldogs 3 months old one female and one male they are almost completely white with fun. Patches View Detail English Bulldog pups waiting for you! I have 3 English Bulldog pups 2 females and 1 males ready for adoption. Both parents have championship bloodlines! They are 12 weeks old. They will go fast! They have had their first shots done by my vet. Serious inquiries, please text or email me for pictures and price. View Detail.They are as well very adorable with kids and other household pets. Adorable English bulldog puppies for sale.

Fall in Love with a new Fur-Family member.Judy's success and many years of experience breeding Goldendoodles is staying in the family. The puppies will be bred and raised with the same standards that make Gleneden Doodles one of a kind. The Burkshire is not far from Gleneden and our Goldendoodle puppies have a brand new kennel with a new spot to romp and play! We are devoted to raising beautiful, healthy and affectionate Goldendoodles puppies and making them available to responsible dog lovers. Gleneden goldendoodle puppies are socialized before going to their forever home. We place puppies one at a time, taking into consideration the suitability of the prospective home. Goldendoodles are family-friendly. They are social, active and intelligent dogs. Doodles are loyal companions that will keep you moving. Clients most often describe our Doodles as wonderful companions, smart, loving, healthy, adorable and joyful. Goldendoodles typically weigh between 20 to 70 pounds at maturity. There are a host of factors, including diet and exercise, that can influence growth and development, so we cannot forecast nor guarantee adult sizes. Minis are pounds. Standards are 50 and up. Weaned from mother by eight weeks of age, Gleneden puppies are generally available for adoption at that time. The temperament of the males and females is basically the same. Neither sex is harder to house train than the other, and both are equally intelligent and affectionate. Puppies are cream to shades of blonde, apricot, red and sometimes black. Our doodles are generally compatible with allergy sufferers. If you are concerned, we can provide you the opportunity to come and do an allergy test here at The Burkshire before you take your puppy home.

Recommended Reading: Italian Bulldogge History Italian Bulldogge parents have rich histories that we can study to get to know these dogs well. The Olde English Bulldogge is amongst the new breeds developed in the s; David Leavitt developed them in his breeding program. As a result, he developed the Italian Bulldogge. Neapolitan Mastiff has its origins in Naples, Italy. These massive dogs were used in WW2 and were dangerously close to extinction when Piere Scanziana started promoting them due to his passion and love for the breed. And fortunately, the breed was saved and was recognized by AKC in .Italian Bulldogge Characteristics This humongous breed is one of the most intimidating ones out there, along with the likes of Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Pit bulls. These canines have broad, round skulls with small triangular ears that tend to flop at their tips. Their Muzzles are usually wide and squared with a black snout that has large nostrils. The males have an average height of around 26 — 31 inches and an average weight of — lbs. The females in this breed are usually smaller, with an average height of 24 — 29 inches and an average weight of 90 — lbs. How Long Does an Italian Bulldogge Live Italian Bulldogges are quite big, and these large-sized canines usually live shorter lives than small-sized ones. And this breed typically has a life span of around 10 — 14 years. You can ensure that they live their longest by taking good care of them and regularly taking them to the vet. This price may vary depending on various factors. So, they need an owner with a firm hand who knows how to assert dominance and deal with the strong personality of large-sized dogs. And that is only possible for experienced owners as opposed to first-timers. In any case, these loyal pups have a drive to please their owner something they inherit from their English Bulldogge parent which makes them easy to train. Caring for Italian Bulldogge Caring for a dog usually comes down to taking care of their daily requirements; This includes their Caloric requirements, grooming requirements, and activity requirements. Keep on reading to find out all you need to know about caring about your furry fellow. Italian Bulldogge Nutrition This large-sized dog is capable of eating all that you feed him. They are large and need a lot of food to maintain their body weight. On top of that, they require a lot of daily activity, which requires even more food. So, keeping all of that in mind, it would be best to feed them four cups of dog food daily. We recommend brushing them at least 3 — 4 times per week with a slicker brush and daily when your pup is shedding. So, it would be wise to take them on walks twice a day, breaking them into 30 minutes each. And if you have a house with a fenced yard or garden where they can play and move around at their own pace, that would be the cherry on top for them. Caring for Italian Bulldogge Italian Bulldogges have a short fine coat that is not adequate to protect them in extreme weather. They need a cooling vest in the summers and a sweater in the winters to remain comfortable. Furthermore, they have skin folds all over their body that needs to be checked regularly for mites and ticks. Italian Bulldogge Health As a hybrid, the Italian Bulldogge has fewer chances of developing health problems because most breeders aim to breed out diseases when cross-breeding. Breeds Similar to Italian Bulldogge. Often occur with allergies and intolerances. Skin inflammations Can be hereditary in certain breeds. Heart disease Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication. Breathing problems Dogs with shortened muzzles can often experience respiratory problems. This mix usually has a large body, short legs, a slender skull, a thick coat and a unique appearance. What temperament has such a mix? It is a friendly, lovable hybrid breed, but they are good at guarding. They show friendly to everyone and want a lot of attention and care. What is a healthy diet for an Italian Bulldog? As with any other dog breed, this dog should be fed regularly. A healthy diet consists of a balanced mixture. How much space does an Italian Bulldog need? This mix, like any other dog breed, needs enough space to play and explore. What is the difference between a Mastino Napoletano and an English Bulldog? The Mastino Napoletano is a larger and heavier breed than the English Bulldog. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. White Labradors are a very attractive and distinctive looking dog. But are White Labradors really Labradors? Are they healthy and happy pooches or does their pale color result in health problems? Read on to learn everything you need to know about these wonderful dogs and why most of them make excellent family pets or show pooches. He did have some qualities that I thought were different from the many Labs I raised over the years, but I would not consider it outside the norm for a Labrador Retriever. Different Types Of White Labradors On the most basic level, white Labradors are Labradors that have a coat that is white, or almost white, in color. But their coat takes on this unusual pigment for a Labrador for a number of different reasons. These dogs are the same as all other Labs; it is just that both of their parents had the right genes to give them a coat that approaches white. They will have the same black or brown nose and eyes as other Labs, as well as the same intelligence and temperament. They will also face the same health risks, but no additional ones due to the color of their coat. Yellow Labradors come in a range of colors, from fox red, to golden, to cream, and of course, white. White is just another natural variation within the spectrum. White Labrador dogs are usually specifically created by breeders, who have been broadening the color range of Yellow Labradors for decades in order to widen their market. White Labradors are more likely to be English Labradors than American Labradors because of the history of the breeding. This means they will also have the stockier, broader look of the English Lab. Albino Labradors Unlike Yellow Labradors with a white coat, which are healthy dogs that do not differ from their darker colored brothers and sisters, some White Labradors are the result of albinism. This is a genetic condition universal throughout the animal kingdom, but rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, The result is a pooch that has white hair and extremely pale skin. They are usually easily distinguishable from Yellow Labs that are white as they will also lack pigment in their eyes and nose. Their eyes are often a distinctive red color, though they can also be blue. Albino Labradors often develop health problems as a result of their lack of pigmentation. They are very susceptible to sun damage, which can easily result in tumors and skin cancer. Their eyes are also very sensitive to the sun and can easily become damaged. They are also often born blind or suffer from eye deformities. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish these pups from albino dogs, but they will have normal eye color. This condition is also relatively rare among Labradors, as it is a recessive trait. It can come with similar health concerns as the areas of the skin that lack pigment can also be easily damaged by the sun. But they are not at the same risk as far as the eyes are concerned. Silver Labrador White Labradors should also not be confused with Silver Labradors , which occurs as a result of the dilution of the darker pigment of black or brown dogs. They can be registered with the Kennel Club as Chocolate Labradors, but they are excluded from shows. But just like Yellow Labradors with a white coat, these Chocolate Labradors with a silver coat are natural within the color range of Labradors and they do not have different personality traits or health conditions as the result of the color of their coat. Considering this, and the fact that White Labradors are relatively rare among Yellow Labradors, they are not always easy to come across. To find a White Labrador, you will need to speak with a breeder that has chosen color as one of the traits for which they are controlling. However, it is not advisable to work with a breeder who is only or primarily controlling for color, as health and temperament are still more important features in a dog than color. Bear in mind that English Labs look different; they tend to be stockier and broader in the chest and face. They also have different personalities. They tend to be more playful and silly, but have less energy. They have become very popular dogs on the show circuit, while their silly and friendly personality makes them great family pets. It can be difficult to tell if a Lab will grow to be a true White Lab when they are a puppy, as lots of Yellow Labradors are born with a very pale coat, which gets darker as they age. Of course, while seeking out a white Yellow Labrador might be something you want, seeking out an Albino Lab or even a Leucistic Lab is not advisable because of the related health conditions. However, that is not to say there are not Albino Labs out there that need someone to adopt them and give them a loving home. American Or English Labrador? As seeking out a White Labrador probably means choosing between an American and an English Labrador , it is worth considering the differences between the two. Both dogs are friendly, good-natured, and companionable, and also intelligent and highly trainable. This is why they make excellent companion dogs and working dogs. But both were originally bred as retrievers. American Labs are those that have been bred for working, while English Labradors have been bred for conformation, which means they have been bred to more exactly align with the definition of the species, which is why they are an excellent choice for show dogs. They are called English Labradors because they are significantly more common in the UK. Meanwhile, you guessed it, the working-style Labrador is more common in the USA. But, while this is how the breeds are characterized, this is far from prescriptive, and you will often encounter English Labs as working dogs and American Labs competing in shows. So, these are not strict definitions but rather a useful guide to help you distinguish between the two extremes of the breed. They are all registered as Labrador Retrievers with the Kennel Club. That said, there are some key differences to look out for. American Labs are usually a bit taller, ranging from .This height difference results because American Labs tend to have longer legs, while English Labs are stockier. But American Labs are also heavier than their English brothers and sisters, ranging from 70 to pounds, while English Labs are usually between 60 and 85 pounds. The appearance of the two dogs is also different. English Labs tend to look heavier and more substantial, with a barrel chest. They also have a wider head and a fuller face with a shorter muzzle. The neck is thicker, and so is their coat so they also shed a bit more. American Labs also tend to have more energy than English Labs, and as a result, it is often thought a firmer hand is needed to keep American Labs under control. For this reason, they are often considered better as working dogs, and when they move into the home, they need a very active family. Because English Labs are considered calmer and quieter, they are more versatile as a family dog and also easier to train for shows. I would consider him an American Lab based on looks although his breeder said he had both American and English in his ancestry. His energy level was closer to that of an American Lab, but his goofy temperament more closely resembled an English Lab. Yes, White Labradors are very rare. Albinism is extremely rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, White Labradors that are pale Yellow Labradors are also rare. White Labs are at the extreme color range available for these pooches, and it is required that both parents have and pass on the genes that allow for this extremely light color. Exactly how big your Labrador will get depends on a lot of things, but color is not one of them. As a general rule, if your White Labrador is an American Labrador, you can expect them to weigh between 70 and pounds. English Labradors, while they look stockier, tend to be lighter, between 60 and 85 pounds, They also tend to be smaller than their American brothers and sisters. A healthy White Labrador will have the same life expectancy as the majority of Labrador Retrievers, so about 12 years. However, White Labradors that are Albino will have a significantly lower life expectancy, as they are much more likely to develop serious medical conditions, such as skin cancer and tumors. Are White Labradors Purebred? Yes, White Labradors are purebred dogs within the Yellow Labrador Retriever category, and they can be registered for shows and with the Kennel Association as Yellow Labradors. Do White Labradors Shed? All Labradors shed , and they tend to shed a lot. They have a double coat, which means they have a lot of hair to leave behind. It can be especially challenging in the shedding season, which is Spring and Fall. So, yes, you will be finding those beautiful white hairs all over your home. He definitely shed more than any other dog, Lab or otherwise that we had in our home. Do White Labradors Turn Yellow? Some of the hair of a White Labrador, especially around the tips of the ears, can turn yellow with sun exposure. In addition, many Yellow Labradors may appear white when they are born, but their hair will darken over the first few months of their life. So, you cannot always tell if a Labrador will be white during the first few months of their lives. Final Thoughts When breeders refer to a White Labrador, they are referring to a Yellow Labrador that has been specifically bred to have very pale fur. This is more common among English Labs than American Labs, but they are a naturally occurring phenomenon that occurs from the breeding process. These dogs share all the same wonderful traits as other Labradors. They are friendly and intelligent, and they make excellent family dogs, working dogs, and show dogs. However, these White Labs should not be confused with Albino Labs or Leucistic Labs, which are dogs with rare genetic conditions, meaning they lack pigment in their skin. These dogs can suffer from serious health issues as a result of sun exposure. While there are dogs out there of this variety that need a loving place to call home, it is not the same as adopting a White Labrador. They do need special care and attention. The first time Archer met his new companion was also the first time the little girl ever spoke. Do you have any experience with White Labradors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. We specialize in breeding white labrador puppies that are socialized, free of hereditary health problems, well-exercised on 12 fenced acres, intelligent, and conform to the AKC Breed Standard. Our lab puppies are part of our family and live in a loving, inclusive, intellectually stimulating environment. All lab puppies are born in our home and remain there the eight weeks they are here at Bullis Lake. Our puppies are never caged. Their area is large and they can freely run and play with their littermates. His name is Luke! We just wanted to share a recent photo of our fifth family member. He is the most wonderful dog and continues to be incredibly healthy with no end of energy! People are shocked when they learn how old he is. He gives this family so much pleasure and joy! Bullis Lake Labradors guarantees all puppies with our Health Guarantee. Bullis Lake Labradors has veterinarians on call when the need arises. You are purchasing your next family member from a responsible, reputable breeder. We love to receive emails and pictures of our puppies as they grow. Many of our buyers become friends. Finding white English Lab puppies White English Labs are affectionate, friendly, and people-oriented dogs. They have relatively high energy needs and are usually high shedders. But, the English strain of this breed will make a wonderful companion for an active household, even ones with kids and other pets. Are White English Labs Purebred? White English Labradors can be purebred. Purebred yellow Labs come in a huge range of shades. The exact color of a yellow Lab will depend on the intensity of their pigmentation, usually controlled at the Intensity I locus. But, white English Labs may be too pale to qualify. But, it is still possible to find a mixed breed dog that looks like a white English Lab. And, since this breed is so popular, some disreputable breeders may try to mis-sell their mixed puppies as purebred Labradors. So, be vigilant in your search for a reputable breeder. Ask plenty of questions, view paperwork in person, and meet both parent dogs where possible! English Labs are bred to conform to the ideal breed standard. They are generally stocky, muscular dogs. These Labradors will have broad skulls, with medium length jaws that come to a defined stop. Their nose will be black and wide, with open nostrils. Their eyes will be medium in size, in colors brown or hazel. English Labradors have well proportioned ears that hang flat against their heads. In all, their appearance will be strong and broad, but toned. Despite their stockier stature compared to the American type Lab, excess weight and obesity is not encouraged. Another distinct feature of the English Lab is their otter tail. These Labradors have short, dense coats made up of two layers. Their undercoat is soft and weather resistant to keep them warm and healthy in their original retrieving roles. White English Labs will have a yellow coat so pale that it appears white. Their coloring could be uniform all over, or it could be slightly more pigmented in certain areas, such as their ears. Are White English Labs Friendly? English and American Labradors are distinguished by their temperament just as much as their appearance. Both types are friendly, energetic, and people-oriented dogs. But, English Labs tend to have slightly lower energy levels than field type Labs. The English variety are very people-oriented. They will need plenty of exercise, but will be happy to relax at home with you afterwards. As intelligent dogs, they will need mental stimulation as well as regular exercise. They are eager to please and will respond well to positive-reward training. This Labrador strain is often very food motivated. English Labradors are often recommended as family dogs, particularly for first time owners. They are known to get along well with children and other pets, especially when they are properly socialized from the time they come home with you. To give your puppy the best chance of a healthy future make sure both of their parents have good hip scores, a recent eye test and are PRA clear. On average, white English Labradors live to 12 years old. Finding White English Lab Puppies The best breeders will prioritise health and good temperament above all else. Reputable breeders will be happy to answer any questions you have, and will provide evidence of health testing. Alternatively, you can search in local rescue centers, to see if any of those have white English Labs up for adoption! Yellow Labradors have always come in a range of shades. This range has been deliberately broadened in recent years through selective breeding of more muted tones. But despite this, there are only three recognised colors of Labradors — black , chocolate and yellow. Yellow Labs can now be commonly seen ranging from darkest rich fox red, through shades of golden, pale yellow, cream and even white. White Labs and fox red Labs are both classified as yellow Labs. Even though the hues look very different, they are just variations of the same base color. Changes in Trends What is considered desirable or fashionable changes from one decade to the next. And certainly differs between the show and working communities of Labrador breeders. Currently, working or American Labradors prefer the darker shades of yellow, and English Labradors are often much paler. English Labs differ from American or Working bred Labs quite dramatically in terms of their shape and personalities. In general your white English Labrador will be fun loving, a little silly and very sociable with people and other dogs. He might take a little longer to mature than his working bred cousins and may have less of a hyped up drive to retrieve or run around all day. A white English Lab will also often have a broader chest and head, as well as slightly shorter legs. The Albino Labrador Albinism is an interesting trait that is found throughout the animal kingdom. It is caused by a gene which switches off coloring. Albino Labs will have white hair or fur, and pale skin. They may also have red eyes, although very pale blue eyes can also be seen in some albinos when some pigmentation remains. True albinism in dogs is rare, and it is not a desirable trait as unfortunately it comes with health problems. Albino Lab Health Albino Labs can suffer from sensitive skin. This is an issue that leaves them particularly vulnerable to sun and heat damage. Not only can an albino Lab be easily sunburnt, the sun can also damage his eyes. This vulnerability can make these dogs prone to tumors and skin cancer. Many Albino dogs are born blind, or suffer from eye deformities. Fortunately, a white Lab is almost always not actually an albino Lab. It is actually just a very pale version of a yellow Labrador. White Labrador Retrievers will have pigmented noses and dark eyes, as well as distinctive white fur. Their fur will almost always contain touches of cream or yellow, especially around the ears. A white Lab puppy will often have yellow ears. Finding a White Labrador Puppy White Lab puppies will come from parents who have the genes for yellow coat color, and who have been selectively bred to have the palest version of this color. In a litter of puppies the shades of color can range just as dramatically as they do in adulthood. Some pups can look far more orange and others will be at the paler end. Puppy coats will also change color as they grow. So white Lab puppies may appear more or less pale when they mature. Even if you love white Labradors, remember that the most important thing about a puppy is their personality and their health. As with any puppy search, the way to find a white Lab puppy is to look for a litter of Labradors bred in a way that is appropriate for the breed. White Labrador Retriever Breeders If white Lab puppies appeal to you, then make sure that the breeder has not focused on color to the detriment of health or temperament. Color should always be a secondary consideration when breeding a litter or choosing your puppy. First make sure that all of the other boxes are ticked, and that you are happy with your breeder. Make sure both parents are fully health tested. For Labradors this will mean low hip and elbow scores, and clear eye tests as a minimum. Think of the Type of Labrador If you want a pup to show in the ring, then go to an established show breeder who will be able to help you select the best pup for your purpose. If you are looking for a family pet, make sure both parents are treasured members of the family too. When buying any Labrador puppy, making sure the breeder is a good breeder is key. Here is some more information on how to find a good breeder, for any color of Labrador. The main ones which Labrador owners deal with are regarding potty training and biting. You can find lots of information on dealing with both of these common issues in our extensive Puppies Section. Bringing a new puppy home is a big decision. If you have any doubts about whether you are ready for a Labrador check out this article to help make the right choice. Now taking deposits for Puppies. Contact us to learn more, meet our parents, and reserve your puppy! Your Labrador Breeder in Arizona with a focus on Service Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Many of our puppies have gone on to become excellent service dogs. We treat all of our puppies as though they are training for therapy work. This makes a great puppy for any use! I would love to introduce you to my dogs and our special puppy program! Please contact me for more information. Even if your family does not have a special need for Therapy or Service work, the preparation we provide all of our puppies makes for an excellent family pet. Working We have prepared many puppies that went on to work-life. Not every puppy succeeds at work-life training, but our puppies are given the best chance starting life in our Puppy Program. Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Family Dog Our puppies make excellent family dogs. Working We have prepared many puppies for work-life. Our puppies are well prepared for their future careers. Labs are intelligent dogs and they love to have a purpose. This makes them ideal for many types of work. Thank you for trusting me and for the kind words… What an amazing experience! Sandy has developed a wonderful program that allowed our family to bond with and work with our puppy prior to bringing him home. The education and training we received has been invaluable. She genuinely cares about her pups and the product is well behaved, well adjusted, healthy and happy puppies… Our Nash is gorgeous, smart, and healthy. We cannot give a higher praise to Sandy and her entire process of placing these beautiful pups. My Lab Puppies is a breeder we recommend to all our family and friends. We have 2, Momo is a male we brought home in February .He is now 14 months old. They are now inseparable. Extremely intelligent, lovable, trainable, and kind. Not to mention beautiful. Even my old rescue terrier loves them…Sandy is a pro. No bones about it. Jane Glenn Outstanding experience! My wife researched many dog breeders before deciding this was the breeder of choice. He is turning out to be such a smart and sweet boy—he wins friends every where he goes. Sandy has been great with support and training help. You can tell she cares about breeding for temperament and with the temperament of the parents both therapy pets working with special needs children , what a great guy he is turning out to be! Wendy Holland.

To help you out with your search for this hybrid pooch, we have gathered the best resources to find breeders and rescues in the United States. Here are some of the places where you can find a Saint Shepherd puppy available for sale: Greenfield Puppies — This is a website that can help you look for a Saint Shepherd puppy within your area. Lancaster Puppies — This is another pet advertising website that offers mixes such as the Saint Bernard German Shepherd mix for sale. All puppies sold within Pennsylvania are entitled to a day health guarantee covered by the Dog Purchaser Protection Act. Keystone Puppies — Another trusted source of mixed puppies is Keystone Puppies. They work with reputable breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their pups. When you buy a Saint Shepherd from this platform, you can enjoy the benefits of a health and socialization guarantee. Some breeders also offer this mix for sale along with their purebred puppies. Check out our list of Saint Bernard breeders and best German Shepherd breeders for more options. Rescued dogs go through vet examinations before being available for adoption, so you can be sure that you can find a healthy pup. After their careful screening process is done, dogs are matched with the families that best suit them. They have a list of available dogs that you can check out to see if they have any Saint Shepherd mixes. Sunny Saints St. Bernard Rescue — This is a rescue based in Southern California that provides the needed medical care and affection to abandoned and neglected Saint Bernards and its mixes. All of their adoptable dogs are placed in foster homes. Adopt-a-Pet — There are thousands of dogs waiting for a forever home in this online pet database. With this, you can easily find a Saint Shepherd to take home. To help you out in choosing a puppy safely, feel free to check out our ultimate dog adoption guide. This will help you learn the common guidelines and requirements of rescue shelters. There are also some tips to pass the adoption application. They are especially gentle with children and are also known to be tolerant of other pets. Great guard dogs: Thanks to its German Shepherd genes, the St. Bernard German Shepherd mix possesses the protective instincts that make it suitable as a guard dog. As a giant breed, this designer dog can easily intimidate intruders. They work especially well with training that uses positive reinforcement. This is a trait that they can inherit from their St. Bernard parent. Therefore, early training and socialization should be prioritized. Shedding is especially a difficult problem for people with dog allergies. Unmanageable size: Due to its large size, owning a Saint Shepherd will cost you more compared to owning a small or medium-sized dog. Not everyone has the budget to cover the annual costs of a St. Bernard German Shepherd mix. This might lead to behavioral issues and can also make the dog physically difficult to handle. With this list, you can weigh the pros and cons of owning a St. Bernard German Shepherd mix and decide if it is the right dog for you. The idea behind the breed was to take the mass that St. The result is a physically imposing dog who may hide behind you in times of trouble. Bernard German Shepherd Mixes are big, though, and that extends to their personalities. If you have the room for them, Saint Shepherds will quickly steal your heart. The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix relies mostly on their size to intimidate evildoers, as they generally prefer cuddling family members to disemboweling strangers. Still, it would take a brave thief indeed to continue breaking into your house after they saw one of these lumber out of the bedroom. Bernard is… not. However, those big pups make up for lack of intelligence by doubling down on stubbornness. Luckily, Saint Shepherds are smarter than they are bull-headed, but you still need to be firm and consistent while training. This can become a problem if they do bark for no reason , though, which is another reason why being diligent about their training is a must. Their brains allow them to pick up new commands quickly, and they love to please, so frequent training sessions are highly recommended. Bernard German Shepherd Mix listens to your instructions, because this is not a breed that you can simply overpower. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Bernards are known to be loving toward most animals, though. Luckily, early reports indicate that Saint Shepherds tend to take after St. Bernards rather than German Shepherds. They seem to be accepting of other animals and see them as potential playmates rather than rivals. A post shared by Waylon the Saint Shepherd wagging. Expect to spend a small fortune feeding these animals, as they have equally big appetites. These pooches are prone to obesity, so you need to be careful to offer them a healthy diet and not to overfeed them. We recommend a high-protein diet with minimal treats or scraps. You should vary how much you feed them depending on how active they are, as there tends to be a wide disparity between individual energy levels in this breed. These dogs are happy lounging around on the couch watching TV, but they also love to get out and run around at the park. We urge you not to be complacent with your dog, though, because these animals need a great deal of exercise to stave off obesity. Plus, their super-sharp minds long for mental stimulation, so a long walk, vigorous training regimen, agility training, or all of the above would be welcomed. Bernard German Shepherd Mix enough stimulation, they can become destructive, and you can only imagine the kind of damage they can do. Along with being good with children, many people are charmed by their calm and confident personalities. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. So, it can be difficult to find and connect with a breeder. You can expect Saint Shepherd puppies to be very playful, and it can seem like they have an endless supply of energy. They also tend to take a little longer to mature and reach adulthood. So, they can retain their puppy-like tendencies for a couple of years. They grow quickly, and it may be cute to see a small puppy jump and be excited to see you, but it can quickly escalate to a safety issue as they grow. Growing Saint Shepherd puppies can also easily access hard-to-reach places and become experts at swiping food off kitchen counters and dining tables. Starting training as soon as possible will help immensely with keeping everyone in your home safe. These dogs are highly intelligent and require daily physical and mental exercise. Bored Saint Shepherds often resort to expressing their pent-up energy through destructive means, and they can cause a significant amount of damage because of their large size. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They can be good playmates with children, but both Saint Shepherds and children must learn to interact with each other appropriately. Saint Shepherds may not be aware of their large size and must learn not to play too roughly with children and risk knocking them over. Saint Shepherds usually become protective of younger children in the family. They can interpret children running around as a sign of danger and may try to intervene. With early socialization, Saint Shepherds can live harmoniously with other pets. They usually get along great with other dogs, but other kinds of smaller pets may feel intimidated by their large size. So, while Saint Shepherds may be perfectly fine living with other pets, small pets just may not feel safe or comfortable around them. Bernard German Shepherd mix can be anywhere from 22 to 30 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 65 to pounds. Very likely, these mutts will be at the larger end of the average GSD or the smaller end of the typical Saint Bernard. The color and markings of their cross could go both ways. Often, they will be black, brown, pied, or sable. No matter the appearance, the pups will surely have medium-to-long straight and dense hair. They are also expected to have thick undercoats. Grooming The St. Bernard German Shepherd mix will require frequent brushing —at least once a week—if you want to keep the fur around your home at a minimum. Additionally, these dogs will blow off their coats twice a year, which will require even more frequent brushing with tools especially made for heavy shedders. Ideally, that would involve daily brushing using a de-shedding tool and a slicker brush. As with any other dog, this mixed breed should have their teeth brushed and nails trimmed regularly. Although they are not typically prone to ear infections, it helps to keep their ears clean and dry, especially if they have floppy ears like their St. Bernard parent. Strength The German Shepherd is known as a strong breed with a remarkable bite force and impressive pulling strength. As for the Saint Bernard, their large size and thickset bodies are a clue to their power. The St. Bernard German Shepherd mix is expected to be a tough dog with the strength required to fulfill a wide variety of roles as a working breed. Speed GSDs can run pretty fast at speeds of approximately 30 miles per hour. In contrast, the large and heavy bodies of St. Bernards keep them from being fast and agile dogs. Nevertheless, the German Shepherd-St. Bernard mix is expected to have the energy levels, stamina, and athletic ability of both their parents. Since they are working breeds, they need both physical and mental stimulation to avoid destructive behaviors. Bernard German Shepherd mix will likely need a one-hour walk or 30 minutes of intensive play per day, at the minimum. They will also need to be mentally stimulated with activities like training and brain and puzzle toys games. Trainability The German Shepherd is known as the third most intelligent working dog breeds in the world. It belongs to the top tier in the canine intelligence ranking. At this level, it takes only 5 exposures for them to learn something new. At this level, it takes up to 80 repetitions for them to learn a new command. The GSD-St. Nevertheless, they are expected to have an excellent work ethic when properly trained for a specific function and will be very easy to train. These dogs are also more sociable than German Shepherd, who tend to prefer the sole company of their own family. However, GSDs are much more trainable and have superior protective instincts. Given the temperaments of both parents, the Saint Shepherd will ideally have a good balance of intelligence, drive, and playfulness. They are also expected to be loyal, protective of their home and family, and incredibly affectionate. These dogs can be incredibly good family dogs as long as their humans invest time and effort in their training. They need to be trained in obedience and also socialized in different settings at a young age. With proper socialization, they coexist peacefully with other animals and even young kids. Health As large, deep-chested dogs, both the German Shepherd and the St. Bernard are prone to bloat. This painful condition occurs when the stomach expands dangerously due to excessive gas, fluids, or food. Since both parents are predisposed to this condition, it is something that owners of Saint Shepherds should watch out for. Bernard-German Shepherd cross might also be prone to bone and joint conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, as are most large dogs. Both parents should also be screened for degenerative myelopathy , which is a condition that causes the progressive deterioration of the spinal cord. Bernard cross, however. All breeds have genetic predispositions. Being aware of them enables you to avoid them and also know when to seek medical help. Lifespan The average Saint Bernard lives between 8 and 10 years while German Shepherds commonly live from 12 to 14 years old. Knowing this, it is reasonable to believe that the GSD-Saint Bernard cross could live for approximately 10 to 12 years. Recorded average lifespans per breed give you a good idea of how long your own pup might live. A lot depends on their environment, nutrition, and health maintenance. Bernard Mix. Through the AKC Canine Partners program, hybrids and crosses are able to participate in various dog sports. This program includes some of the most popular canine sports like Rally, Agility , and Scent Work. How Popular is the St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix? Saint Bernard-German Shepherd crosses are not very popular. They are difficult to find because their parents have more value as purebreds, so breeders are not motivated to mix them together or even with other breeds. Nevertheless, you might still find breeders that cross GSDs and Saints on purpose. Such puppies will definitely be more expensive than those from unplanned litters, especially because the parents would have been selected for specific traits. Bernard cross can be a delight to own. Although their size and grooming requirements might be challenging, its likely affectionate nature and eagerness to please should be incredibly rewarding. German Shepherd St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a combination of two large breeds of dogs, the loving giant St. Bernard and German Shepherds. This means they are strong but not too aggressive to intimidate any stranger while being cuddly companions with you and your family. They also need plenty of time for grooming so prepare accordingly because these guys have lots of fur in their home country from where we got them. They are naturally fur-ocious so expect them everywhere in your home including on furniture or clothing. Make sure to give these big personalities all day attention while setting aside plenty of time each week to dedicate just as much care to grooming. This dog needs lots of love and cuddles to make them feel safe and secure. This huge breed will intimidate any unknown person while being cuddly with you and your family. But be prepared for some fur rolls around though: between all those energetic play sessions outside where he gets plenty of space. This large, white canine can weigh up to pounds more than the standard breed and come equipped with unmatched energy that translates into years of companionship for its human counterpart. The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a large-sized, friendly dog with thick fur and big paws that can be found in all sorts of climates. The Saint Shepherd is a great choice for parents with children. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are sweet and trustworthy around kids, so you can feel confident knowing them near your little ones. When humans are home and one of their pets is outside, it can be hard for them to come back in without worrying that something might happen. The adorable pups might not leave your heart once they get a hold of it. Dress information: Large Sized. Color: Brown, Sable and Black. Names: St. Suitable for Family: Yes, but also an eye should be kept on them as they are large sized so that there could be no problem in any aspect. Best Use: An experienced owner is recommended to pet this breed, who is well trained to keep massive size dogs. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are a rare find breed and offer you the best of both worlds with their mixed characteristics. With this pet, no one can match its uniqueness. They are great for those who want something uncommon in life. Bernard GSD mix dog is not just a bigger version of your average house pet. A lot goes into making up their personality and size can play an important part in how they behave. For example while smaller breeds may be more laid back due to living spaces being less overwhelming — one downside could also come from having such a limited room where you need everything close at hand so when it comes down. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is an unusual looking dog with a long coat and straight ears, which makes them stand out from other dogs. Their head has large wrinkles on it that make the eye seem to be smiling or laughing; this also gives their face some white in between brown fur for contrast. The Saint Shepherd is a unique dog with an unusual combination of colors. They have long, thick fur that covers most areas on their body except for the face and tail which are usually white or mostly brown in coloration patterns while black hairs can also be found throughout these parts too. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a medium to large, muscular dog with an acute sense of smell. It may get up to pounds and has oval shaped eyes that are typically brown in coloration but can also be any other shade from blue-eyed white blondes all the way down through darker shades like chocolate or green-hazelnut buttercream frosting. They have thick muscles in their body as well as strong legs for standing on two feet or four paws all day long—and toes that are arched when running due to their sharp heel spur marks on each foot. Coat: The St. Be prepared to pick up lots of hair when walking through an area filled with these dogs—the more proactive you are about maintenance, then better your chances will be at keeping things under control? It would help too if people were cautious around warm temperatures during summertime because not only does it seem like those shorter months make them grumpier than usual but heat radiates off their bodies easily Strength: St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are one of the most loving and loyal dogs you can find. Speed: St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are the perfect family dog. History Of St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix has a long and interesting history. The first known example of this breed was in the early s when it originated from Germany, Switzerland with roots that date back to World War I. These gentle dogs have been paired together by nature — their intelligent minds plus protective instincts makes them a perfect pet to take on any adventure life may dish out at you. Legend has it that their name comes from founder, St. Bernard de Menthon and they were used as messenger dogs for travelers through dangerous mountain regions near Italy or Switzerland during medieval times because these pups could travel great distances with little food or water while being treated like royalty by those who saw them pass by on the road. The most amazing thing about these dogs was their ability to smell a person buried underneath the snow. The team of these dogs worked in tandem, with one dog staying by their side while another went off for help if needed — or just rested up during these tough times. Bernard German Shepherd Mix mountain dog is a gentle giant who was bred as both an agricultural and herding breed. They were developed in Switzerland, where they still keep watch over travelers from cold withstanding temperatures. Characteristics Of Saint Bernard German Shepherd Mix: The German shepherd St bernard mix is a breed that has been known for its brilliance, fast learning capabilities and great caretaker dog instincts. Adaption Qualities. Can weigh up to pounds with a large head, floppy ears, dark brown eyes, and a short to medium muzzle with a black nose. They have thick muscular bodies, straighter backs than GSDs, big feet, and arched toes. Thick double coat that insulates well for cold weather, but can cause overheating in warmer climates. Prone to shedding so regular brushing will be needed. Lifespan: years on average. Saint Shepherds can be great family dogs, guard dogs, and can get along well with children. Friendly, outgoing, laid back personality. Very obedient so they should be easily trainable. Relatively high exercise requirements. One hour of daily exercise at minimum is ideal to limit destructive behaviors. Should ideally be socialized from a young age, although ongoing training is recommended. German Shepherds began as bands of herding dogs across the plains of Germany in the s. Max von Stephanitz , once a captain of the cavalry, was interested in developing an ideal working dog who could do more than herd sheep. St Bernard German Shepherd Mix Stephanitz invested years of work into generations of inbreeding, linebreeding, and culling. This produced a dog that still has a specific and recognizable form, versatility, and beauty. Saint Bernard, named for the Augustine monk St. Bernard of Menthon, according to Smithsonian Magazine , originated in the Alps around .Forbearers of St. Bernard included Asiatic mastiff types that the early Romans brought with them. Since the areas where the dogs lived were at elevations of 8, feet, the St. Bernards found use in helping trekkers navigate the passes. The dogs accompanied marronniers, or special servants, assigned the task of guiding foot travelers across the mountains. Saint Bernards would later realize their true calling, rescuing victims buried under snow. Saint Bernards are as recognizable as German Shepherds although not as popular. Saint Shepherds joined the designer dog ranks in the s among dog lovers who wanted to create an ideal companion who would also have moderate guard potential. Size German Shepherd females are 22 to 24 inches tall, while males are 24 to 26 inches in height. Saint Bernards are giant dogs. Females stand 26 to 31 inches tall at the shoulders, and males can be up to 35 inches. Saint Bernards weigh anywhere from pounds to a staggering pounds. German Shepherd Saint Bernard mix females are 25 to 28 inches tall and weigh 90 to pounds. Males can range from 28 to 31 inches tall and can weigh over pounds. What is the general body type? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs with lean frames. They have a long snout with some squaring of the muzzle, a dome-shaped forehead, brown medium eyes with a slight slant, muscular lengthy limbs, and a rectangular back that slopes downward towards the bushy tail. The Saint Bernard is a mastiff-type with a massive head and large-boned body. The muzzle tends to be deeper than it is long, and their eyes are brown, set forward, and deep. They give an impression of power. Shepherd has the large head of a Saint Bernard, with a moderation of the jowls, and lengthening of the muzzle. Their legs and body are strong and their backs are straight or slightly sloping. Occasionally, the German Shepherd St Bernard mix will have relatively large ears that stand up. Will your Saint Shepherd have unusual colors? Not all Shepherds are black and tan, and not every Saint Bernard is the stereotypical tricolor brown and white with black. The German Shepherd can be red and tan or blue and tan. They can also be solid red, black, tan, blue, or white. The AKC specifies that all Saint Bernards must have white on the chest, feet, the tip of the tail, and neck. Colored patches can be brindle or any shade of red. Show judges and the public alike prefer dogs with dark masks on their faces. A black facial mask is a very common trait among German Shepherd Saint Bernard offspring. Most of the hybrids are white and brown, red, fawn, or sable. Saint Shepherds can also be tricolor, like a Saint Bernard, or black and white pied. German Shepherds have three possible coat types and Saint Bernards two. The Shepherd can have long or medium-short straight hair with a thick undercoat. The third coat type is long outer fur without an undercoat. Saint Bernards come in a long or short-haired variety. Both coat types have a thick undercoat, and the outer guard hairs are usually straight to wavy. Your Saint Shepherd will have a dense undercoat with medium-long straight outer hairs. You should also plan on monthly bathing. Clip nails as with any dog every four to six weeks. However, as with the Saint Bernard, the Shepherd hybrid is susceptible to overheating in the summer when temperatures head north of 85 or 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Measures you can take to help with the heat are setting up a mini pool or running a misting system or sprinklers. Fresh water should always be available, regardless of the weather. Although the coat is water-resistant, additional precautions are needed to avoid sudden drops in their core temperature. However, the combination of their independent working style and a brief history of dogfighting, makes it prudent to exercise caution when introducing German Shepherds to new dogs. According to Dogtemperament. The Shepherd-Saint Bernard often inherits their social make-up from the Saint Bernard side, and as such they love to play. Three components used to gauge canine intelligence are obedience, the job for which they were bred, and finding solutions to problems or solving puzzles. An example of a job ranked high for intelligence is herding, which requires dogs to think. Your Saint Shepherd will be a very intelligent and obedient dog. Their size alone is enough to deter trespassing, let alone break-ins or home invasions. Saint Shepherds have a loud bellowing bark as well. Shepherd Saint Bernard hybrids tend to live longer than their parents, but they can inherit several serious health problems. In parentheses is which breed can pass the problem to the mixed puppies. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus — GDV, not necessarily heritable, is a life-threatening problem that threatens any large dog with a deep chest as well as Dachshunds. The stomach becomes bloated with gas and can rotate degrees or more. Sometimes the spleen also twists. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia St. German Shepherds have a higher-than-average occurrence of elbow dysplasia as well. Bernards are vulnerable to heart failure. Dilatative cardiomyopathy is usually left-sided and leads to enlargement of the heart and thinning of the cardiac walls. Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis GSD — A hereditary condition that causes skin tumors, uterine cancer, and changes in the kidneys. Pannus GSD — Pannus is a disease that affects the cornea of the eye. Rarely, your dog may become diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy a progressive neurological and muscular disorder , perianal fistulas draining tracts around the anus , hemophilia blood clotting disorder , and decreased pancreatic enzymes — all diseases affecting the German Shepherd. Saint Bernards only live for about 7 to 10 years, while German Shepherds can live 10 to 12 years. Perhaps exhibiting slight hybrid vigor, Saint Shepherd can live 10 to 14 years, according to dogbreeds.How much exercise does the German Shepherd Saint Bernard need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs with abundant energy and exceptional stamina levels. With the mental stimulation they also require to remain emotionally balanced, Shepherds require 90 to minutes of exercise and training per day. On the contrary, sources like Dogtime recommend only moderate exercise for Saint Bernards. The Saint Bernard puppy is prone to bone developmental disorders from rapid growth. Over exercise can exacerbate abnormal growth, pain, and discomfort. Saint Bernard puppies still need to exercise to prevent problems associated with becoming overweight. An exercise regimen should accommodate St. Ultimately, a Saint Bernard needs 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. Saint Shepherds are between their two parents in exercise requirements and activity levels. You must always take into account the weather because your Saint Shepherd will be more heat-sensitive than a GSD. This video illustrates the vast difference in size and appearance between Saint Bernards and German Shepherds, as well as a few of the color variations you can see in black and tan GSDs. Note the reddish-brown color with a black mask. Notice how friendly and comfortable he is. This is most likely due to proper socialization and having loving owners. He is a large Saint Shepherd with medium hair. His feet and the tip of his tail are white like a Saint Bernard. Many hybrids of this particular mix are taller and leaner than you might expect. In general, no, St. Bernards are not typically aggressive dogs. They are a well natured dog that is great in a family setting. They are known for their tolerance and patience, which is especially important if you have younger children. However, while they are not typically aggressive in their nature, a non-aggressive dog is never a guarantee when purchasing. This is why training a dog is so important because it will help to ensure that your dog has the correct manners and temperament. While a lot of people may be put off by the size of a St. Bernard, their size does not reflect their personality. They are often known as gentle giants because they are well natured. When it comes to other animals in the household, again, St. They may potentially have some issues with dogs if they have experienced any negative interactions, but for the most part, they are not aggressive dogs. Yes, for the most part, St. Bernard loves to cuddle. While many people can be put off by their size, which can be understandable, they are very loving. They love to be around family members and enjoy receiving a fuss and cuddles. While they are not a big attention seeking breed, they do enjoy being stroked. However, as with all dogs, St. Given this, while many do enjoy being cuddled, not all will. If your dog prefers a belly rub or a head scratch, then you should do this instead of forcing your dog to cuddle. All dogs will show affection in their own individual way, which you should be aware of. The more you get to know your dog, the more you will understand what affection they prefer. Are St Bernards easy to train? This is because they are a dog that wants to please its owner. As a result of this, they do respond well to commands and instructions. Training is such an important aspect to owning a dog, especially if you are a new dog owner. However, while they are an easy breed to train, you will need to ensure that you are putting in the time and effort required to train the dog correctly. The more effort you put into training your dog, the better behaved, and obedient they will be on the whole. Given that they are calm dogs, they do have a lot of patience when they are being trained, which is positive. They are not as easily distracted in comparison to other breeds of dog. As a result, they may not do what is asked of them straight away. Stubbornness can make training slightly more difficult, and this will require patience and persistence from you, the owner. Do shepherd mixes bark a lot? While this will depend on the individual dog, typically shepherd mixes will bark a lot. This is because German shepherds are a breed that can be quite vocal. While this is not necessarily a negative thing, it can be off-putting for some people. While they are more likely to bark in comparison to other mixes of dogs, it is possible to stop this from occurring. Though it will require more patience and persistence, you can train a German shepherd mix not to bark. With mixed breeds, it is difficult to determine how a dog will act. This is because they have traits of two separate dog breeds. While German shepherds are a more vocal breed, if they are mixed with a breed that is not overly vocal, this can mean that their litter will be less vocal on the whole. How big do German shepherd Saint Bernard mix get? The size of a German Shepherd and Saint Bernard mix will vary depending on the size of both parents. While you can guesstimate, ultimately their size is down to the characteristics of both parents. However, typically this mix will reach around 28 inches tall, though they can be smaller than this. This is fairly large, but not as large as a Saint Bernard. When looking at their weight, they will typically weigh anywhere from 85 to pounds. While this is an estimate, you may find that your mix will be slightly taller or smaller than this, due to its genetics.

german shepherd puppy for sale los angeles - Shih poos are a cross between a shih tzu and a toy poodle. While some shih tzu breeders breed a poodle to a shih tzu to create first-generation shih poos, it's also common practice to breed shih poos to one another to create multigenerational dogs. As cross-breeds, shih poos are not an officially recognized breed, and there is no breed standard regarding appearance or temperament. Even shih poo puppies born to the same litter may take after one parent more than the other and appear vastly different in coat texture and coloring, says PetGuide. Shih poos fall in the small to tiny range, typically standing between eight and 18 inches at the withers and weighing anywhere from eight to 18 pounds. Their coat may be long, straight and silky like that of the shih tzu, shorter and curly like that of a poodle or it may fall somewhere in between. Despite the appearance, the shih poo's coat barely sheds, making these dogs a good fit for someone with mild pet allergies. Coloring can take after either parent breed. While poodles have solid coats that are typically black, white, gray, brown or apricot, shih tzu coats may be solid or come in various color patterns and combinations. Shoodle coats may mimic the coloring pattern of either parent. Personality: Often, mixed-breed dogs develop a temperament that balances the qualities of their parent breeds. Shih tzus tend to be highly affectionate and extremely charming, but possess a stubborn streak that can make them difficult to train. Poodles, on the other hand, while equally charming with playful and comedic personalities, are highly intelligent dogs who are more eager to please and easier to train. Shih poos, as a result, are often playful, affectionate and quick-witted little charmers, although they may inherit their shih tzu parent's willfulness. Because of this, they often need a firm but patient guide in training, and might not be the best choice for first-time dog parents. What shih poos may lack in trainability, they more than make up for in love and affection. They love to play with toys and get along wonderfully with older children, although due to their small size and hair that's easy to grab and pull, they should be closely supervised around small children. While friendly and great at getting along well with other pets, especially if introduced as puppies, older shih poos might not love having other dogs around. They often do well as only dogs. Even so, these fluffy pups love being close to their people and don't tolerate being left alone for long periods of time. If work or school takes you away from home for long hours, you may need to consider doggie daycare to keep your shih poo happy. Living With: Shih poos are generally versatile dogs that can do well in small apartments as well as larger homes. They need up to 30 minutes a day of play and exercise, which can be satisfied with two or three short walks each day or minute sessions of vigorous playtime twice daily. The rest of the time, they'll be content to curl up in your lap or to cuddle up next to you on the sofa. Shih poos are highly social and love to be around people, so expect them to stick close as you move around the house. While shih poos tend to be long-lived, with some living 17 years or more, they can be predisposed to the same health problems as their parent breeds. These include allergies, patellar luxation , vision problems and endocrine disorders such as Addison's disease, hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Shih poos that inherit the shorter snout of the shih tzu may also be prone to respiratory issues, reverse sneezing and snoring. Extra care should be taken to prevent overheating and heat stroke, says Dogtime. And like many small breeds, these dogs may be prone to dental problems and will benefit from regular dental cleanings and daily tooth brushing. Regardless of the length or texture of your shih poo's coat, it will be thick, fast-growing and prone to matting. Daily brushing and monthly visits to the groomer are recommended to keep the coat under control. Limit baths to a few times a month to prevent the skin from drying out. When bathing, be sure to prevent water from getting in the ear canals to prevent ear infections from developing. Shoodles have healthy appetites and will overeat if given the chance, which will lead to unhealthy weight gain. It's best to keep them on a consistent feeding schedule rather than allowing them to graze on kibble throughout the day. Feed your pup a high-quality food dog formulated for small breeds , and keep treats to a minimum. History: Not much is known about the backstory of the shih poo. Unlike other boutique breeds, no breeders have come forward to take credit for introducing the shih poo. Most likely this cross-breed came about unintentionally, with breeders in the U. As a cross-breed, shih poos are not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, although they are recognized by various designer breed registration clubs, including the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Poodle parents. Shih-Poo coats can be curly like their Poodle parent, straight like their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two. They are generally considered hypoallergenic. Shih-Poos can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Like most small dogs, Shih-Poos can be prone to dental health issues. Maintain proper dental hygiene for your Shih-Poo. Shih-Poos are pretty versatile and can live in just about any kind of home. Shih-Poos come from the loyal, adorable Shih Tzu, and the intelligent, sophisticated Poodle. Unfortunately, like any other breed, these little cutie pies wind up in shelters, from people not wanting a long-term commitment. If you keep your eyes out for a Shih Tzu or Poodle rescue, in your area, that is most likely where you will find a Shih-Poo awaiting adoption. They are not acknowledged as an official breed at the present time. That said, as a mix between Shih-Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect the Shih-Poo to be on the small side Most weigh in at eight to 18 pounds and range in height from eight to 18 inches. As Poodle and Shih Tzu size can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih-Poo will also vary. Shih Tzus can be stubborn, but what they lack in trainability, they make up for in personality ten fold. They are incredibly friendly, attentive, and cute, while Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and active. Shih-Poo personalities can vary but typically will fall in the middle of parental traits. Most Shih-Poos are described as friendly and playful. While Shih-Poos enjoy a good siesta, they also enjoy walks and thrive on playtime. They may not be eager to learn new tricks but do enjoy interaction and attention. Shih-Poos may not be as barky as their Poodle parent, but may alert you to any displeasures, such as a missed meal, with a single bark until every few minutes until needs are met. Training and socialization should be established early on. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the ways to go with Shih-Poos. Shih-Poo Health While many designer crossbreeds have improved overall health, they can inherit health issues their parents are prone to. That said, Shih-Poos can typically live approximately 16 years on average in relatively great health. Watch for signs of heat stroke if your dog happens to have a shorter snout. As a small dog, they can be prone to dental problems. Maintain good dental care and have their teeth regularly checked and professionally cleaned. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Make sure Shih-Poos are kept on a dietary schedule. Do not allow free-feeding as they will overeat and rapidly gain weight. They will need regular potty breaks and one or two ten-to minute walks a day for optimal health. Dental issues can be problematic. Regular teeth cleanings are recommended, as well as systematic dental chews and teeth brushings. Your vet should be able to help you establish a routine. Shih-Poo ears should be kept clean and dry. After bathing, take extra steps to ensure this. If your pup gets a smelly, pungent odor, they may have an ear infection. Ear cleaning solution can help keep your pup from getting infections and unnecessary trips to the vet. Shih-Poo Feeding An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. High quality food is recommended, as they do tend to have dental issues. They should not be allowed to free feed as they may gain weight. A feeding schedule is ideal with a minimum of treats. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. The color will vary, as well. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Daily brushings, as well as monthly groomings, will help keep your pup looking and feeling their very best. You may also want to give them a few baths in between, but not more than weekly, as their skin and coat can get dry and irritated. Shih-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. That said, for children who learn early how to properly approach and play with a small dog, the Shih-Poo can make a great companion. When it comes to other pets, Shih-Poos can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Shih-Poos can be left alone for short periods of time, but a second dog could be ideal for them, especially in their later years. However, you may want to try Shih Tzu or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Although purebred dogs are carefully bred over generations according to the breed standard the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed , hybrid dogs like the shih tzu—poodle mix have no official standard. This means that characteristics like height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament are less predictable than they are in purebred dogs. Different breeders may have different ideas of what constitutes the perfect shih tzu—poodle mix. Additionally, shih tzu—poodle mixes are not recognized by any of the reputable purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. Shih Tzu—Poodle Mix Care The low-shedding coats of both shih tzu and poodles require of upkeep, and the grooming requirements for shih tzu—poodle mixes are similar. Brush daily or every other day to keep the coat untangled and to prevent mats from forming. Like poodles and shih tzu, shih tzu—poodle mixes require regular haircuts from a professional groomer. Also trim the nails every two weeks and check the ears once a week, cleaning them with a pet safe ear cleaner if they appear dirty. Excessive dirt or redness in the ears means a veterinary visit is in order. Shih tzu—poodle mixes are smart, but how trainable they are depends whether they inherited more the eager-to-please personality of the Poodle or the more stubborn nature of the shih tzu. Regardless, positive-reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards gets great results from any dog. Despite being indoor dogs, shih tzu—poodle mixes still need some exercise. Aim for two walks a day or one walk and one play session in a safely enclosed space like your fenced yard. More energetic shih tzu—poodle mixes with trainable personalities might also like training for fun dog sports like agility, flyball, and obedience. Each breed has certain inherited health disorders in their family background, and those health issues can be passed on to the puppies in a litter. Breeding shih tzu to poodles means the puppies could potentially inherit any of the genetic diseases common to either breed. Shih tzu are prone to hip dysplasia , patellar luxation slipped kneecap , and various eye problems including cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and eyelid abnormalities. Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred shih tzu and poodles and test them for the genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together. Responsible breeders should also test their adult shih tzu—poodle hybrids before breeding them to decrease the odds that the puppies will inherit genetic issues. Responsible breeders also offer a health guarantee on their puppies that protects the puppy buyer in case the puppy develop a genetic disease later in life. Many shih tzu—poodles will overeat if you keep the bowl filled, so instead serve measured meals twice a day. Ask to your veterinarian for a recommendation for a healthy food for your shih tzu—poodle mix, as well as an ideal healthy weight for your adult shih tzu—poodle. Because of their small size they are the perfect lapdog and are known as a designer breed. Poodle crosses are one of the most popular form of hybrid dog breeds. The Shih Poo was bred to be a hypoallergenic lapdog, making it perfect for those with allergies. Although they are very popular, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club as an official breed yet. You should always remember to purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder, or you can adopt at your local shelter. A Shih Tzu was originally Chinese Royalty and were pampered by Emperors and spent their days as lap warmers. They are known for being very loyal to their owners but are also outgoing and stubborn dogs. Although they are a sociable breed, they love to be at home too. The Poodle came from Germany and was originally a popular dog among artists. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as an official breed in , and now recognize it as the 7th most popular dog breed. So, when we cross a Shih Tzu with a Poodle, we get a Shih Poo, which combines the characteristics from both parents into this fun, cuddly little dog. While it is not always possible to know the exact characteristics of your Shih Poo because they are a hybrid, there are some general traits that are more common in this small breed. Take a look below to learn more about them. Characteristics As we mentioned above, because the Shih Poo is a relatively new breed, it can be difficult to predict exactly what they are going to look like. We can take a look at their parents and guess many of the statistics and traits though. Appearance Because both of their parents are small, it is easy to guess that the Shih Poo is going to be small. On average, a Shih Poo weighs in at 8 to 18 pounds and ranges in height from 8 to 18 inches. However, as Poodle and Shih Tzu sizes can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih Poo will also vary. Although small in size, they have a sturdy body. Coat Shih Poo coats can vary and it can be long and silky or short and curly. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. Their fur is hypoallergenic, which is what makes them such a popular hybrid. The Shih Poo inherits this hypoallergenic fur from their Poodle parent, as the Shih Tzu has a non-hypoallergenic coat. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle and all variations and color combinations. It is not uncommon for puppies of the same litter to be born with different colored coats. A Shih Poo is normally friendly and playful and, with moderate energy levels, would be very happy napping in your lap for a few hours. They can be quite vocal dogs, although not as vocal as their Poodle parent. Shih Poos are most likely to bark if they are frustrated at something, so it is important to train them from an early age to ensure they do not exhibit unwanted behaviors later on in life. A Shih Poo can make a great family dog when given supportive and positive training and lots of attention , but they are also adaptable and may be suited to the quiet life too. This means they can be a great pup for single individuals who are retired and want a cuddly companion dog to curl up with! They do well in different living environments, including big houses, small houses and apartments. Lifespan The life expectancy of a Shih Poo is relatively long. They can normally live for anywhere between 10 to 18 years, although on average it is 13 years. Known Health Issues Again, because the Shih Tzu Poodle mix is a crossbreed, and a new crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what health conditions they may face. However, we can guess based on their parents. Luckily, if they inherit the longer muzzle from their Poodle parent, they may not have any issues with breathing problems that Shih Tzus inherit. Shih Poos are also known for having dental issues, which we go into more detail about below. Of course, these are all possible health problems but not for definite. Daily Life Now you know all about the characteristics and temperament of a Shih Poo dog, it is time to take a look at what everyday life with one is like. Food And Diet As with any dog, you should always make sure to feed your Shih Poo a healthy and balanced diet. Shih Poos are known to love food, so you should never allow them to free-feed otherwise you may end up with a very overweight dog! An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be a dog food formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. You should change their diet as they grow from a puppy into an adult and then again as they go into their senior years. If you need help with the type of food you should be feeding your Shih Poo, you can always ask your vet. They should exercise every day, with it recommended that you should take your Shih Poo on one or two 15 minute walks every day. They will also regularly need to go outside to go to the bathroom, because of their small body and small bladder. Family Compatibility Shih Poos make great family dogs because they love attention. They are friendly and playful, although they need regular grooming and exercise. Because they are an adaptable dog, they can thrive in many different situations, whether you live in a big house or a small apartment. They also love to cuddle up with you and are the perfect lapdog, which may make them perfect for a retired individual who wants a furry companion! It is worth mentioning that Shih Poos are very delicate dogs and may not do well in environments with small children, unless the children have been taught to be gentle with the dogs. Children have a tendency to be rough with animals, and this could end up harming your Shih Poo, so a family with older children might be a better fit. Your Shih Poo will get on with other dogs in the home if they are socialized properly. They do not really like to be left alone and can benefit from having a furry playmate in the home, especially in their later years. Training Many Shih Poo owners have reported that their pooch is energetic and playful, which means they are not difficult to train. They are intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, with verbal praise and treats as rewards. Punishment based training is never a good idea and will not help your Shih Poo to understand. Depending on which parent your Shih Poo takes after more, they may be more inclined to learn tricks. If they take after their Poodle parent, they will likely have a very high IQ and will want to learn. However, a Shih Tzu is much less inclined to impress you! You should start training your Shih Poo as soon as you get them. Housetraining can be a challenge with a Shih Poo puppy, but a little vigilance goes a long way and staying on top of their training will make them much happier. You will need to be patient with them while they are potty training and remember not to express anger at your Shih Poo puppy. Socializing Socializing your Poodle mix puppy is also important from a young age. This is especially important if you have young children in the house or other pets. You should always remember to do this slowly so you do not overwhelm them. Grooming Unfortunately, Shih Poos do require quite a bit of grooming. Neither of their parent breeds have very easy coats to maintain, although a Shih Poo does have a hypoallergenic coat and is very low-shedding. The Shih Poo may have long and silky or short and curly fur, depending on which parent they take after more, but it is likely to be a mix of somewhere in the middle. They need to be brushed daily and trimmed monthly to keep their fur in the best shape and mat and tangle-free. Regular bathing is not really required because they are a very clean dog, although they may need a bath from time to time. A bath can also help to ward off any skin issues they may have inherited. Professional Grooming Many Shih Poo owners take their dogs to the groomers for a hair cut. The type of cut they get will depend on the type of fur they have, but if they have curly fur then you might choose a puppy clip or lamb clip. You will also need to trim their nails occasionally and check their ears for any sign of infection. It is especially important to make sure their ears are dry after bathing, otherwise they may end up with an infection. Both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle breeds are prone to tear stains, so you can expect your Shih Poo to also suffer from tear stains. Gently wiping around the eyes once a day can help this problem. We mentioned above that Shih Poos can have a lot of dental issues. You will need to make sure you are cleaning their teeth daily to ensure this does not become a big problem. You can do this with chewable dental sticks if needed. You vet can help you to establish a routine. A Shih Poo is a very adaptable dog that can thrive in many different situations. They like attention and to be doted on, so if you live in a family where many different people can give them lots of attention, they will love living with you! Equally, they are happy living in individual homes with one carer. Are Shih Poos aggressive? Shih Poos are not known for being aggressive. They are energetic and playful and love attention, although they also love curling up on your lap for a cuddle. Summary Shih Poos are an adorable little mixed breed of dog that is the result of breeding a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. Because they are a hybrid, you cannot always be sure what traits and characteristics this designer dog breed is going to take from each parent, but your Shih Poo will be energetic, playing and loving. While they like to exercise and be outside, they also love to curl up with you on the couch and are a true lapdog. Their adaptability makes them perfect for both families and individual people, and they can thrive in a big house or a small apartment. Is a Shih Poo puppy the right companion for you? Search Dog Breeds. Best Food for Shihpoos Specific health issues in the breed. FAQs What is a Shihpoo? Origins and History of the ShihPoo The s saw an explosion in the intentional cross-breeding of dogs. Most breeders wanted dogs with hypoallergenic coats for people with pet allergies. One of the first crossbreeds, the Labradoodle a cross between the Poodle and Labrador Retriever became immensely popular due to its high trainability, intelligence, and its hypoallergenic coat. Because the Poodle was known for its low-shedding hypoallergenic coat, more and more breeders started crossing the Standard Poodle and its variations — the Toy and Miniature Poodles — with other dogs. Often, the miniature Poodle was used for breeding with other small dogs. One such mixture was with a Shih Tzu, a popular and ancient dog breed that has a small size and cute looks. Little is known about the exact origins of the Shih-Poo but it is estimated that the hybrid dog might have been around since the late s. Today, the ShihPoo has become one of the most popular designer dogs in the world. It is known to inherit significant intelligence from the Poodle breed which enhances its trainability. In the subsequent sections, we will cover various traits that make the Shihpoo so popular. The Shih Poo is a teddy bear dog and its cute looks make it one of the most in-demand hybrid dogs today. Having a Shih Poo is like having a living breathing stuffed toy! The best part is that this teddy bear dog wants to play with you as much as you want to play with it. The reason this hybrid dog is so adorable is that the parent breeds are so adorable in their own right. The small Shih Tzu was deemed the royal, noble dog breed in Imperial China. It was given a royal status and people seen with Shih Tzus outside of the palace were actually imprisoned! The Toy or Miniature Poodle is not only a sweet-looking dog, it is incredibly smart too. It is no wonder that the Shih Poo has inherited these qualities as well. The height of a Shih Poo is between 8 and 18 inches or .Your puppy could inherit the tight, curly, non-shedding coat of the Poodle parent or the soft, silky, long hair of the Shih Tzu. Accordingly, you will need to vary your grooming methods for your pet. The coat colors in Shih Poos could be white, black, brown, apricot, blue, brindle, and combinations thereof. They are also versatile; there are Shih Poos that are known to fit right into hospice situations as therapy or comfort dogs and also as family pets or companion pets for children. They can fit in with a small family with older kids or with an elderly year-old sedentary individual. They simply love people! Shih Poos are affable, athletic dogs. They need plenty of exercise to prevent them from getting into trouble. Being active is a part of their nature since both parent-breeds are fairly active. Just like Shih Tzus and Poodles dislike being left alone at home, the Shih Poo is also known to have separation anxiety. But your pet will be an entirely different dog when everyone is at home: cheerful, well-behaved, and obedient. Like the parent breeds, Shih Poo puppies need plenty of positive reinforcement-based training and handling from the start. Bad habits can quickly set in and they can be difficult to break. Shih Poos are known for barking. Ignore your dog and it will try and get your attention in different ways — even if that attention is negative. So you must train your dog, not to bark or bark on cue else it could become an annoying habit that irritates your neighbours. Is Shih Poo a Good Pet? Who is the Right Owner for This Breed? Shih Poos make excellent pets. They are also great for novice dog owners. However, one must invest time and effort in training else they could develop bad habits. A well-trained Shih Poo is an excellent family pet that gets along with kids and other pets as well. You must desensitize your Shih Poo to other dogs, cats, and house pets from a young age. Shih Poos are great with kids and love having company. The cost of a Shih Poo can vary from breeder to breeder. Their price also depends on the parent bloodlines, the coat colour, etc. These include cost of food and treats, vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick prevention, grooming, dog training, costs of travel and pet boarding, etc. What To Feed a Shih Poo? Feed your puppy the same meal that the breeder was feeding it. This is important to avoid digestive issues in your vulnerable puppy. However, once your puppy has settled in you can transition them over to a raw food diet or quality freeze-dried food of your choosing. Puppies need at least 4 meals a day as they expend more energy through running and playing. The size of your Shih Poo will play a key role in how much to feed it. In general, a 10 lb. A 20 lb. You may feed your adult Shih Poo times a day. Choose a nutritionally dense dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with by-products, fillers, and other empty calories. Some Shihpoos are sensitive to grains, gluten, and even certain proteins. In such cases, you might want to feed special grain-free diets or even prescription food to your buddy. Shih Poos are prone to dental health issues. Avoid foods with added sugars as these can contribute to canine cavities. Are Shih Poo Healthy Dogs? When you purchase your Shih Poo from a good breeder, it is likely that your puppy will be healthier than one purchased from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. They also conduct health checks on their dogs and only breed ones without genetic health problems. Since the Shih Poo breed is relatively new, not many health issues have been documented so far. However, from time to time, we tend to see some problems like: Hypothyroidism.


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german shepherd puppy for sale los angeles - How long should puppies stay with their mother? The ideal window is between 8 and weeks-old. They are healthy and adorable, and you want to bring them home as soon as you possibly can. However, the time your puppy spends with their mother and siblings is critical for development, and so it's important to make sure they spend this growth period with their litter. The first month For the first four weeks or so, puppies depend on their mothers for everything. This milk provides all the nutrition the puppies need for the first few weeks after birth. Weaning to solid foods Puppies start to experiment with solid food as early as 3-weeks-old. They still nurse, and mothers continue to produce milk for up to 10 weeks. Some nursing is for nutrition, but it is also a comforting, bonding activity for the puppies. Most puppies are fully weaned to solid food between 7 and 10 weeks of age, although the transition can occur earlier. Learning to speak dog Just as important for puppy development is learning proper canine etiquette and communication as part of a litter. For example, as early as 3 weeks of age, puppies start learning from their mother and siblings to eliminate away from where they sleep, which helps with housebreaking later. The pups are practicing hunting and communication behaviors that they need to perfect. One of the most important skills that puppies learn through play is bite inhibition and not chomping down too hard. If a puppy bites too hard, the other will cry out, signaling that the bite was too rough. Moms will do the same thing or may gently correct the puppies for getting too rough. This is a critical lesson to learn before heading out into the world, as other dogs will be far less tolerant of inappropriate puppy play than Mom! Biting is also a common problem behavior that can land a dog in a shelter or worse later in life. Puppies will also practice a variety of vocalizations and body language, learning to communicate with their siblings and mother. Socialization Puppies have an early critical socialization period from approximately 5 to 14 weeks of age. During this time, puppies are open to learning and experiencing new things, and the things they learn will affect how they go through the rest of their lives. Breeders and other caretakers should be exposing the puppies to novel sights and sounds on a regular basis. Puppies destined to be working or sporting dogs should be exposed to things they will encounter in their future roles, such as sheep wool for herding dogs, a variety of materials and obstacles to climb over for agility dogs, and training scents for future drug and bomb detection dogs. These safe exposures should continue after you bring your puppy home, but early socialization with litter-mates and the mother are also important for building confidence. The puppies will observe how their mother responds to new people and things and then mimic her behavior. If Mom is relaxed and friendly around new people, the puppies will likely be comfortable with strangers. Research has found that puppies who are separated from the litter too early are more likely to show fear, aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, reactivity and inappropriate play biting than puppies who stay with the litter for at least eight weeks. The ideal time The exact time that is best for a puppy to go to its new home can vary by situation, but most breeders and veterinarians agree that 8 weeks of age is a good minimum. Some states have laws in place preventing puppies from being sold any earlier. Eight weeks after birth, the puppy is eating solid food on their own, they have benefited from socializing with litter-mates and observing mom, and they are well within the ideal timeframe to bond with new owners. Breeders may also opt to keep the puppies until 10 or 12 weeks of age. Toy breeds in particular are often kept with the litter until they are 12 weeks old because they are so small and fragile. This gives the pups extra time with the litter, and still has them going to their forever homes in plenty of time to form a strong bond with their new people. And anyone who has welcomed an adult dog into their home knows that dogs of any age will still bond with their new owners as long as they have had socialization with people! Keeping the puppies longer does mean more work for the breeder, since they are responsible for all the puppies during those extra weeks. But if the breeder is putting in that time and effort to give the puppies a great foundation, then the extra time with their litter can be very beneficial to both you and your new puppy. German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Translation missing: en. June 8, Liz Palika Dog breeders and behavioral specialists feel that the week range is the adequate age for most dogs to leave their mother for their new homes. Unfortunately, in talking with other dog trainers, behavioral consultants and behaviorists, we all agree we're seeing a trend of puppies leaving mom and littermates far too young. A puppy who leaves his mother and littermates at five to six weeks of age, or worse yet, even younger, is going to suffer for that throughout his life. Adopting Eight Week Old Dogs Is Typical The traditional age for puppies to leave their mom and littermates and go to their new home has been eight weeks of age. At eight weeks of age most puppies are able to eat well, no longer need to nurse or eat supplemental formula, are mobile, and are aware of their world. They are well socialized to the people in their household and hopefully have also met other animals in the home. They have been exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells and while they pay attention to these things, they are not afraid. At eight weeks of age these puppies are ready to leave their mother and siblings and go to their new home. Nine to Ten Week Old Pups are Typically The Best Age Since some puppies tend to go through a fear period at eight weeks of age an awareness of the world around them that can cause anxiety , many breeders and new owners would prefer to wait one or two more weeks. I brought home Hero, and before him Bones, at nine and a half weeks of age, because I felt that the puppies at that age were a bit more mature and ready for their new lives. One to two weeks can make a big difference. Other dog trainers and behaviorists agree: nine to 10 weeks of age is absolutely fine. In fact at this age, the puppy is past the eight week fear period, if he had one, and he's a bit more confident now. Developmentally, he's ready to learn, explore and figure out what his new life is going to be. Those who breed toy breeds especially, including Chihuahuas, Papillons, and other tiny dogs, will keep the puppies until they are 11 to 12 weeks of age. These tiny puppies can be quite fragile physically and may be slower to mature mentally and emotionally as babies. A few more weeks with their mother and littermates, as well as the people they know in their family, is often best for them. Larger puppies, however, shouldn't wait this long to go to their new homes. Nine to ten weeks of age is fine but any older could be problematic. Not only do large breed puppies grow rapidly, they are also stronger and rowdy, potentially making it more difficult for new owners to bond with this excited, big puppy who is jumping, pawing and otherwise making life difficult. Also, a week-old large-breed puppy is still a dependent baby; by 12 weeks he's changing. It's much easier for new owners to bond with an eight—to week-old puppy. The mother dog has so much to teach the new puppy ; lessons that will affect him all his life, and his littermates teach important lessons as well. If the mother dog has passed away, the littermates need to remain together. To Learn Key Social and Behavioral Traits Puppies who leave their canine family too early will show immediate behavior problems. They will be fearful of many things and show a lack of confidence. They can also be slow to bond to people or will go the other direction, attaching so strongly to their new owners that they will panic when left alone. The ability to soothe himself, to relax when left alone, is missing with most of these puppies. Biting is common. The mother dog teaches the puppy to control his biting as do the puppy's littermates. When puppies go to their new home, some biting is to be expected, as all puppies experiment. But when deprived of these early lessons, the puppy will bite more and harder, and teaching him that biting is not allowed is more difficult. This important transition time ensures that puppies receive all the appropriate nutrition from their mother. This will support the long term health of the puppy. Additionally, interrupting the weaning process too early has behavioral side effects for young dogs. Suckling, even past the need for milk can be a source of comfort while a puppy grows accustomed to eating only solid foods. Taking Puppies Too Young is Illegal In Some States In 26 states , the age at which puppies may be separated from the mother dog or sold is defined by law. Of those, 22 say that puppies must be eight weeks old before they can be sold. Three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that puppies must be seven weeks old. Some states focus on the age that a puppy can be separated from his mother. Illinois, for example, requires that a puppy be at least eight weeks old before he can be taken from his mother. The laws vary as to who these laws apply to, with some focusing on dog breeders, kennels, and other commercial facilities. Other laws apply to anyone selling puppies, including those on Craigslist. Before buying any puppy, the more you know the better. If an unscrupulous person produces puppies and knows that he can sell them early at six to seven weeks or earlier and avoid paying for food, veterinary care, or other costs, then that cycle will continue. But if more people say no, then perhaps that cycle of human behavior can be changed. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved. The new owners are very gentle with the puppy and simply talk softly to him and give him pats and toys as he gets settled in. Sadly, the Puppy Mill Project states there are more than 10, puppy mills operating just in the United States alone. Puppy mills keep breeding pairs of dogs in often horrific conditions and take the puppies away from their moms much too soon so they can breed another litter of puppies. The Humane Society states that there are some warning signs you can watch for to indicate you may be getting your puppy from an unethical breeder or even from a puppy mill: The breeder is willing to release the puppy to you at a very early age before the age of eight weeks. The breeder will not allow you to visit their kennel and see their operation or meet the parent dogs — they only sell at off-site locations or over the internet. Here again, this question is a topic of often intense debate between different breeders. As one canine biologist explains in Psychology Today , the very earliest any puppy should be allowed to leave the litter and go to their new home is 79 days seven weeks. But many other breeders feel that even seven weeks is too early, as the GSDCA article cited earlier here states. There are a variety of reasons why letting a puppy leave the litter sooner than seven to eight weeks is considered a bad idea. The puppy is still too little and fragile Some breeders believe a primary reason to keep puppies with the mom and littermates longer is that puppies are very little and easily injured. However, because the German Shepherd is a large breed dog and has a sturdier body to start with, some breeders may be apt to release GSD puppies closer to the eight week age range. In contrast, smaller and toy dog breeds that are very delicate may need a bit longer to grow up before going to their new home. The puppy needs to learn social skills Another common reason why many breeders feel that puppies should stay with their litters and mothers at least until they turn eight weeks old is that the puppy will learn important social skills. The best trainer for any German Shepherd puppy is typically going to be the mother dog. As well, GSD puppies will have the chance to play and learn from their littermates and get comfortable with having people around by watching their mother interact with the breeder. Some theories suggest that this initial period of dog-to-dog socialization needs to happen before the dog-to-people socialization so the puppy can learn to be a dog first and then to be a companion to humans next. This benefit is simply that the German Shepherd breeder is experienced working with this dog breed and can give your puppy some early expert training and socialization with people. The difference here would be bringing home a puppy that is already used to a collar and lead, puppy pads, and some initial potty training commands, playing with toys and being handled by people. The rehoming process is always going to be stressful enough on its own that you want to be sure your puppy has the most confidence possible before coming home with you. Set aside time to just be with your puppy Your puppy is going to be a bit nervous or even frightened at first — this is normal. Rehoming is a big change. You can make it easier by just carving out time to sit nearby, praising your puppy, offering pats, and talking softly. These guidelines can ensure that your new German Shepherd puppy feels at home right away living with you. Posted in Uncategorized. We are very excited to present them to the world and look forward to seeing them grow, develop, and move on to their loving forever homes. Puppies need to stay with the dog breeder for a little while after birth. During this time, they learn skills and socialize so they will be well-adjusted when they move away from the litter. Socialization Puppies should stay with the litter for about 8 to 12 weeks. Probably the main reason for this is socialization. When a puppy is with its litter and especially its mother, it learns valuable behaviors. A reputable dog breeder will never let a puppy leave before 7 weeks at the minimum. During this time, the pup will learn how to deal and live with other living things. In a sense, the dogs learn how to dog. Mostly they spend their time playing with their littermates. These are all skills that if developed well, they can use throughout their lives. They also learn how to communicate and receive commands from both their parents and humans. A dog that is not properly socialized will not be confident and may have difficulties fitting into new environments. They could be easily confused and fearful. Neither of these traits is good for both house dogs and dogs that are meant to work or show animals. Unsocialized dogs also tend to have more behavioral problems. They act out in situations in which they are not comfortable. This can mean chewing, barking, or even viciousness. Other dogs are the best trainers for a new pup, so keeping them with their littermates and parents will help them grow and develop into confident, well-behaved dogs. They are bred to be experts at detection, which is great for policing, and agility. While these traits are inbred and instinctual, they also need to be developed. These puppies are spending time with their mother and littermates, with whom their skills are already becoming apparent. The parental dogs provide a good example and play with siblings will mimic and develop these skills. The same goes for agility. There is no better training ground for a pup than an open space with their siblings. German Shepherd Puppies and Humans The fact is, the puppy will most likely be going from a place with many other puppies to a home with either none or comparatively very few. Most of the interactions throughout their lives will be with humans. Dog breeders are dog experts who will calmly and confidently help your puppy get used to human interaction in a safe and respectful way. A newborn puppy sent into a home without that buffer will be extremely stressed and have incredible difficulty adjusting. When it comes to adopting German Shepherd puppies, it is natural to be impatient. However, waiting just a few short weeks to have this beautiful and intelligent pet in your home will pay off down the road.