german shepherd puppy sounds

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! However, whilst German Shepherds tend to have good temperaments, as puppies they use their mouths to learn and will bite anything in sight. In this guide I will explain how you can overcome German Shepherd puppy biting problems, despite the challenges involved. He has never been an aggressive biter, but he would nip a lot as a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of the biting was down to me, as I would do rough play with him and almost encourage the nipping. But, as my puppy got older, those playful nips started to hurt. Please do take all my tips in, as I believe it to be the most detailed solution you will find for stopping a German Shepherd biting that you see anywhere on the Internet. But first, why do German Shepherds puppies bite you? Most will let you know they are scared with a little bark, letting you know to keep away. If you continue to advance and upset them, the growl can then become a snap and possible bite. But, with an older and more aggressive German Shepherd, that bite could be very painful, particularly to young children. Do German Shepherds bite a lot? When German Shepherd are puppies, they do tend to do a lot of biting. Why German Shepherd puppies bite? The teething phase is when you will notice your German Shepherd puppy biting the most. Some German Shepherds will also bite a bit too enthusiastically when they are playing with you. This is a hangover from their days with their siblings where mouth play would have been used. You can stop a German Shepherd biting you when they teethe by giving them things to chew on. Image licensed via Storyblocks. You need to draw the line between biting and playing. As mentioned earlier, I would play with my own puppy and he would go for my hands with his teeth. I turned this into a game, which then became an issue as I had to train him out of it as he got older. German Shepherd puppies can also bite as a way of showing their dominance over you. Whatever the reason is for your German Shepherd puppy biting, it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If not, you will have problems with your adult German Shepherd thinking that biting is acceptable. Also, if your German Shepherd suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately — it could be the sign of a new illness or injury. How to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting Here are different ways that really work if you need to know how you can stop a German Shepherd from biting as a puppy. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When you see puppies playing together in their litter, they will let out a tiny squealing sound when bitten by sibling. The puppy that bit will hear the squeal and then tends to back off. As German Shepherd owners we can imitate this behavior! If your German Shepherd puppy bites you and gives you a nip, make a high-pitched squeal sound. You might find your puppy seeks re-assurance and comfort, but the key is to not give it. Instead, ignore them for a few moments, for example; turn your back to them. This might sound mean but if you want your German Shepherd to stop biting it can work very well. The quicker you begin using this technique the sooner your German Shepherd will biting you and your family. All it will do is make your dog scared and could lead to more biting out of fear. I made this mistake with my own puppy, as would push him away playfully, but that just encouraged the biting more. They will want more of the play, so will bite back again. But you are training them into thinking your hands are fair game. Instead you should use chew toys for this type of play. If you can focus their attention onto a toy and not your hands, they will learn that fingers and hands are not there to be bitten. You can also see the prices by clicking the photo below. Puppies will often eat things they should not do, so you will need to hook stuff out of their mouth. You will also need to check the health of their teeth and gums. One of the best ways you can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite your fingers in their mouth is to use a treat or snack. Let them see it, and then use your fingers to pop it into their mouth and out again. Over time, they should get comfortable letting you put fingers in their mouth without biting back. Train your German Shepherd puppy to not bite over food One of the most common times a German Shepherd puppy will bite is when food is in the equation. Puppies tend to be very overprotective of food, which they learned when in the litter as they had to fight for nutrition. Unfortunately, it will be behavior that can extend to occur over their food bowl. If your German Shepherd is showing food aggression, then you need to train the puppy to learn you are in charge and can pick their bowl up and put it back down at any time — with no aggression from the dog. Handy Hint: Here are some ways you can teach your dog to not steal from the table or start begging you for food. What you do is put a bowl in front of your German Shepherd then quickly remove it again. Dog trainers tell you to do the loud squeal when the German Shepherd puppy bites you then quickly place your thumb in their mouth, pressing it underneath their tongue. You can then put a finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds if you can, but not hard enough to hurt the puppy. The German Shepherd will not like it, and it could mean they stop biting you and will learn for next time. Let your German Shepherd know you are in charge Older German Shepherds that bite will often do it to try to exert dominance over their owner. They can also bite due to jealousy, or when you tell them to do something like get off your chair or bed. You need to train your German Shepherd to realize you are the pack leader and the dominant one. Alphas like us owners, should not be bitten by pack members lower down the chain. Being assertive will help, but often simply rewarding good behavior is enough to get a dog to bend to your will. Socialise your German Shepherd puppy with other dogs Puppies will learn from each other and older dogs. We often look after puppies for our friends. Our friends will often say what a positive impact they see in their young pups after spending a day in the company of our now older dog. And that can include not as much biting. The sooner they can get used to things like this, the sooner they should learn not to bite out of fear. Keep your German Shepherd on a leash when exposing them to new things and noises. Always supervise your puppy when young children are present A German Shepherd that bites a child is a massive problem. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in German Shepherds. Something to consider though is how long your German Shepherd could be teething for. It can last up until they are 8 months of age, so biting and chewing things is to be expected during this phase. The dangers of a dog bite Adult German Shepherds that start biting can be dangerous. Whilst they are a small breed, people can get ill from infections. For example, around half of all dog bites will infect the person with bacteria, possibly leading to illness. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. What do so when bitten by a German Shepherd If you get bitten by a German Shepherd and it leaves a bleeding wound rather than just an abrasion, take the following steps: Press down on the bite wound. This might mean that blood comes out, but that is good as it might help bacteria to come away from the wound. Use clean water and a mild soup to clean the bite wound. Use a clean cloth to press down on the bite wound again as this will help to slow and stop any bleeding. If you have it, apply antibiotic cream to the dog bite wound and then dress it with a new or sterile bandage. If serious, contact a health professional for advice. Conclusion To conclude, some of the quickest ways you can stop a German Shepherd from biting is to make sure you use positive and negative affirmations. In other words, you praise the good, and discourage the bad. Whichever method you try to use, and can be a combination, just make sure that you are consistent when training your German Shepherd puppy to not bite. Tell your friends and family to use the same methods too if they have contact with the puppy. Ultimately, unless you a clear and obvious to your German Shepherd, the puppy will not understand that his biting behavior is a bad thing. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also like…. Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.

Ian discusses how we should learn to see the world from our dogs perspective and in doing so, how we can better earn their love and trust. Armed with this love and trust, we will form a better relationship and as a result, effective training becomes just that much more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog. But please, first make sure to use the search facility in the footer of this website and browse our other sections as the subject may have already been covered: Labrador health and care , Labrador behavior , Labrador puppies , infobites and Labrador breed information. External Resources On Labrador Training Although referring to all breeds in general and not purely Labradors, for those of you that love to watch and not read, the series of dog training videos on www. If you like reading books then check out one of our favorite Lab books: The Complete Labrador Handbook. 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. If this is the case,…. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. Gundog expert Jayne Coley summarises the early training routine that she followed with her own young labrador, Trade. Register for our newsletter To continue reading this content please register for our newsletter. You have to adapt your training to suit the type of puppy you have. The steps below summarise the training routine that I have followed with my young dog, Trade, who has an easy-going temperament. I began to train him properly in the New Year when he was 9 — 10 months old, though I usually wait until the shooting season is over when I have time to do a little each day on a regular basis. Step 1: Foundations By the age of 9 — 10 months, Trade had been toilet trained, knew his name and came back when I called him. He had been well socialised and behaved in company on a lead, was used to going out in my vehicle and had learned to swim. Trade has never been chastised for carrying something he should not, e. I then place the item out of reach. Crucially, by this age we had built up a good bond before formal training began. Step 2: Heelwork It was so wet and muddy at home so I started training on the patio and in our yard where the pup is restricted to a certain area and there are no distractions. We began with heelwork on the lead. To keep the exercise interesting, I walked in straight lines, did figures of eight, included the occasional tight turn and altered my pace. This all helped to keep Trade focused on what we were doing. If he didn't sit immediately, I repeated the command whilst pushing his bottom down with my left hand. Once confident with this routine, I put a lightweight collar on him and progressed to walking to heel off the lead, using my hands to encourage him to keep his head up and concentrate on me, when necessary. If he did move, I calmly walked up to him and, holding his collar, took him back to the exact spot he moved from in a quiet but positive manner. I slowly built up the distance until I could walk around him in a huge circle. Once he did this perfectly, I introduced the recall. Instead of always walking back to him, I would call him back to me, encouraging him to come straight to my hands which were cupped gently in front of my hips. Once I was happy with this, I began to mix up heelwork with sit and stay, and recall. When he didn't move, I quietly picked the dummy up myself. Gradually — over several days — I built on this until I could throw a couple of dummies, one at a time, over and around him and he remained steady. It is always important to lift the pup's top lip out of the way when you put a dummy in his mouth. Trade was reluctant to do this at first, but with patience and perseverance over several days, he accepted it. Slowly, I built on this until I could walk away backwards the length of the lead and call him to me, concentrating on perfecting a good delivery, using my hands to encourage him to bring the dummy right to me with his head held nice and high. Step 6: Retrieving Next, we worked on being sent for a retrieve. I then bent down and pointed my right hand towards the dummy whilst looking at the top of his head to make sure he was looking past my hand at it, before saying his name positively and at the same time letting go of one end of the lead so that he instinctively ran forward and picked the dummy. Initially, I sat back on my heels, which encouraged him to run straight back to me. Slowly we built on this until the lead was no longer needed. Sometimes I would send him for the dummy, sometimes I'd pick it up myself, or I'd walk him to heel in the opposite direction before sending him. On other occasions, I would stand well back from Trade and throw a dummy over his head, call him to me and then send him for the dummy from my position. I like to vary things as this keeps him interested and wondering what I am going to do next. He was at first a little unsure, so I repeated it in a lighter tone, to which he responded. In return, I praised him quietly. Always remember, training a dog is like building a house — it is imperative that the foundations are put down properly, otherwise, sooner or later, cracks will appear. Keep it light and encouraging when you praise, and low and gruff when you scold, so your puppy knows the difference. Especially if you have a boisterous puppy. Keep everything calm and relaxed, and do things in your time. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions…. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington DC? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington DC? The price of Bulldog puppies in Washington DC differs from breeder and business to other breeders and businesses. Some have colors that are rarer than others, while often, females are pricier than males. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Washington DC? How do you screen Bulldog breeders? When Bulldog breeders Washington DC, businesses and companies approach us wanting to be part of our well-known network, we look at a number of factors. Are their Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington DC kept in clean breeding facilities? Are all their puppies' health needs met? Are their puppies' nutrition needs met? If yes, then we welcome then on board! Why is Uptown Puppies different from other networks with Bulldog puppies? Uptown Puppies has a special Breeder Pledge that all Washington DC Bulldog breeders must comply with in order to be a part of our network. What is a Washington DC puppy mill like? A puppy mill is the worst place a Bulldog for sale Washington DC can be born in. Most of the Bulldog puppies that get out of there alive experience many health issues during their lifetime. What health issues do Bulldogs suffer from? One of their biggest health issues is respiratory problems due to the way their snouts are built upon their faces. They cannot be in too much hot weather as they can experience heatstroke. Skin irritations are also very common, among other things. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale right now? Washington DC Bulldog breeders and businesses connected to Uptown Puppies are waiting for you to contact them, so that they can make sure you end up with the exact Bulldog pup you desire! What kind of dog is a Bulldog? Bulldog puppies for sale Washington DC were specifically bred to look the way they do because they used to be involved in a terrible bloodsport that involved bullfighting and bull-baiting. Their wrinkles and folds would keep the blood off their faces! Today though, the Bulldog for sale in Washington DC is a very gentle, calm, and loving dog. How big does a Bulldog get? When they stand, they get to inches at the shoulder. They live between years. What are backyard breeders? Bulldogs, just like French Bulldogs, have to be bred using artificial insemination and delivered by C-section.

Greetings from Bruiser Bulldogs and The Wysongs We are a family absolutely in love with the Bulldog breed and are dedicated to breeding genetically healthy English Bulldog puppies. As responsible AKC English Bulldog breeders, our extensive experience and unique take on the need for a healthier English Bulldog has positioned our breeding program as a visionary leader for adopters in search of a higher quality Bulldog. At our core, we love placing healthy, properly socialized puppies into loving families. There is no greater joy than to be able to share our lifelong passion for English Bulldogs with our adopter families. Feel free to read our blog , watch our videos and learn why Bruiser Bulldogs is producing a better bulldog. Instead of focusing on maximizing wrinkles or winning in the show ring, we have built our foundational bloodlines over the past decade with a focus on health first on foremost. Sires and Dams are health tested with a unique criteria. Bruiser Bulldogs must breathe freely, move athletically while still maintaining that classic English Bulldog look that people around the world have come to love. Our goal has always been consistently produce puppies that are both a head turner and fundamentally healthy Bloodline development is the key to producing healthy bulldogs. We believe that foundational genetics are created through layer after layer of breeding healthy generations of bulldogs. Over the course of a decade, we have focused on a stringent set of health criteria to gradually improve the health and quality of the dogs we produce. The rare combination of experience, repetition, and ethical awareness of correct breeding practices has set our breeding program at the forefront of responsible breeding practices. The process truly is an adoption that affects the time, focus, and schedules of each household that gets a puppy from us. After a healthy puppy , the single most critical factor for a successful bulldog adoption is adopter support. The English Bulldog is unique breed with a unique set of caretaking criteria. Previous dog ownership, while helpful, is not enough to fully prepare an adopter for English Bulldog ownership. We always say the adoption is just the beginning of our journey. Through blog articles and email prep, we focus on such topics as socialization, crate training, disease prevention, potty training, nutrition, and basic puppy supplies to ensure that each adopter will be fully prepared for their new puppy. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?

If your dog has an outie, read this. By Deb M. Eldredge, DVM, is an award-winning veterinarian and writer who graduated from Cornell University, where she was the first recipient of the school's Gentle Doctor Award. Most of them are basically "outie" belly buttons. If small, they may seal up on their own and generally don't cause any problems. Larger ones may require surgery to close up the abdominal wall and prevent intestines from slipping out or getting twisted. Some dog breeds such as Weimaraners are predisposed to these hernias. Ideally dogs with anything other than very small umbilical hernias should not be bred. This is especially true if most of the puppies in the litter have one, suggesting genetic predisposition. What Exactly Is an Umbilical Hernia? In an unborn puppy, the umbilicus slips out through an opening in the puppy's stomach wall to connect to the placenta. When a puppy is born, his dam chews or breaks this umbilical cord or the breeder cuts it and ties it off. It dries and shrivels up, leaving behind the "belly button. Sometimes a small bit of fat may get stuck in the opening, which leaves an "outie" belly button. Occasionally the wall of the abdomen simply does not close all the way. That is when we say a puppy or dog has an umbilical hernia. Signs Your Dog Has an Umbilical Hernia If your dog has an umbilical hernia, when your dog lies on his back, you can feel a small opening at the umbilicus site. If it is the size of the end of your pinkie finger at 8 weeks of age, it is usually not a problem. Many of these small hernias will close up on their own by 6 months of age. If the hernia bubbles out or is bigger than a pinkie finger, there is a chance that intestines may be slipping in and out of the opening. At some point, a section of intestines could slide out through the hernia opening and get trapped or twisted. At that point, your dog needs emergency surgery. Signs you see with trapped intestines can include pain, your dog standing stiffly with his back arched, and possibly not eating or vomiting. If you see these symptoms, you need to call your veterinarian right away. Larger hernias will require surgery to close up the opening, leaving the intestines safely inside. If your puppy is not having any problems, your vet may recommend keeping an eye on it and doing the surgery at the same time as spaying or neutering. That means one bout of anesthesia and recovery for your pet and less cost for you. If intestines become trapped at any point, immediate emergency surgery is necessary. Some people have tried to encourage closure of hernias by using a belly wrap on their puppies with hernias. The goal is to keep all tissues fat, intestines, etc. This is generally not successful but does help in some cases. It is best to consult your pet's veterinarian for advice on the best way to handle your individual dog's treatment. Luckily most umbilical hernias are small and don't present a health concern for your dog! Was this page helpful? I'm new to breeding dogs and have only had one litter of German shepherds there were only two but they both ended up with hernias the mother has a slight hernia herself and I'm wondering is it genetic or something i did wrong in whelping the first pup i let mom do the snipping and there was about one centimeter left on the pup witch eventually healed and fell off than the hernia appeared around three weeks old and got to about three centimeters. When she was a pup, I kept an eye on it and gently felt it regularly to see if there was any intestinal extrusion but it remained small and was repaired when she was spayed. Follow your vet's guidance on how to monitor it and what to look for. If the dam has a hernia I would encourage breeding to a sire who does not have one, although hernias are very common and appear from further down the lines also depending on the mating outcome. You did nothing wrong though so rest assured this is very common. Typically at the first health check at 8 weeks the vet will let you know if it is small and closed, rarely are they 'open'. Common hernias are small and closed. I have whelped 6 litters so far and the puppies who did have a hernia had a small and closed one. The dam had a small hernia herself, which never caused a problem in pregnancy. The sire did not have a hernia. On average puppies had a small closed hernia out of a litter of .They do develop around weeks and if they are very small may self-resolve with maturity. They are easily fixed at approx. For a breeding prospect I would suggest to keep back a puppy without a hernia in the future as they are always a small concern in the back of the clients mind when purchasing a puppy. I have not dealt with a large hernia or open hernia. I would assume these are a bigger risk and of immediate veterinary assitance. I had a male GSD who had a golf-ball sized umbilical hernia, my vet said it didn't need anything doing but to keep an eye on it in case of change. It never became a problem, and the dog had a long and healthy life. So, What happens next? What is a hernia and what causes them? Hernias are a common congenital condition meaning that puppies are born with them , affecting around 1 in puppies. A hernia is a hole in the muscle wall of the tummy abdomen which allows the abdominal contents fat, intestines and other organs to squeeze through into a space under the skin or, less commonly, through the diaphragm into the chest. This usually causes a soft, squishy swelling under the skin, which often fluctuates in size. It may occasionally pop in and out of the tummy, disappearing for short periods of time. While some hernias result from trauma causing a tear in the muscle, most puppy hernias are congenital problems. This is where the muscle fails to develop properly. There may be a genetic element to this condition, as some breeds appear more susceptible. So it is advisable not to breed from a dog with a hernia. Hernias typically arise in specific locations. These result from the muscle failing to close over the area where the umbilical cord entered the body. Less frequently, hernias are found in the groin inguinal or next to the bottom perineal. The rarest kind of hernias involve the diaphragm and can be more difficult to diagnose as they are less obvious from outside. How are hernias diagnosed in puppies? Most external hernias are fairly easy to diagnose just by their location and feel. A soft swelling under the skin in one of the characteristic hernia locations is a strong indicator but your vet will check for an underlying hole in the muscle wall to be sure. These checks are quick, pain-free and harmless. In a small number of cases, or when an internal hernia is suspected, additional tests such as an ultrasound or X-ray may be necessary to diagnose the problem and assess its severity. These are straightforward, non-invasive procedures but may require your puppy to be sedated; your vet will be happy to discuss any questions you may have about this. Are there any problems hernias cause? How serious a hernia is depends on its location, its size and its contents. While many hernias cause few problems, some can make a pup very unwell. Most hernias, especially small ones, contain just fat which usually causes little problem apart from, possibly, some mild discomfort. The main concern with small hernias is that they get larger over time. Bigger hernias may allow a loop of the intestines or other organs such as the liver or bladder to pop out of the tummy. But having intestines or organs in this location exposes them to injury. In a small number of cases, it can make a pup seriously unwell. It can cause them to go off their food, be lethargic, vomit repeatedly or suffer breathing problems. These are potentially life-threatening complications. What treatment do hernias require? Some very small hernias may require no treatment at all because the muscle does eventually close as the puppy grows. These hernias leave a small blob of fat under the skin which can look a bit funny but is not usually of concern. Most hernias, however, will need surgery to close the hole in the muscle. The contents of the hernia to their normal location. Surgery is advisable even if your puppy is currently unaffected by their hernia, to prevent more serious problems later in life. If the hernia is small and stable, this may be done once your puppy is big and old enough, or at the same time as neutering. This is usually from six months of age. So your vet may advise regular checks of the hernia to make sure it is not causing problems in the meantime. For large hernias, or those which involve the intestines or other internal organs, surgery may be carried out at an earlier age, or as an emergency, to prevent some of the more serious complications. What happens during hernia surgery? Surgery to repair a hernia requires a general anaesthetic. The area around the hernia will be shaved and scrubbed with an antiseptic to reduce infections. An incision is made through the skin. The contents of the hernia are checked to make sure they are healthy. They are then gently returned to the abdomen and the hernia is closed, usually with stitches that dissolve in a few weeks. The incision is usually slightly longer than the original hernia and there may be slight redness or swelling around the area for a few days. Umbilical hernia surgery is usually quick, straightforward and low risk. In cases where the hernia is very large, contains more than just fat, or involves the diaphragm, surgery may be more complicated. It may also carry additional risks, which your vet will discuss with you. Thankfully, these cases are much rarer. There will usually be very little trace of surgery after a few weeks. Most puppies make an excellent recovery. Hernias are relatively common in puppies. While some do cause problems, most dogs will have normal, healthy lives following treatment. Corrective surgery is usually routine and recommended in most cases to prevent future problems. They will be happy to check your pup is healthy and advise on the best way to deal with this condition. You may also be interested in;. Umbilical hernias are common in puppies. Most are insignificant. A few can be dangerous. Question: We have a 10 week old white German Shepherd puppy and I just noticed a lump about the size of the tip of a pinky finger on her tummy below her rib cage. What could it be? Nichol: You describe an umbilical hernia. This is a birth defect that is usually quite minor. The lump you are noticing is likely to be a small amount of normal fat that has slipped into the location of the umbilicus belly button. The hernia, an opening in the muscle wall of the abdomen, is the result of an incomplete union of the two halves of the body during fetal development. If the hernia stays very small it will need no treatment. On the other hand, if it gets bigger as the puppy grows it may allow a loop of intestine to slip through the opening and become twisted. This would cut off the blood supply to the intestine and require emergency surgery. Ask your veterinarian to palpate the hernia at the time of each vaccination booster-about every 3 weeks. If the hernial opening gets big enough the doctor will recommend that it be closed surgically. The procedure will require general anesthesia but is quite safe. Recovery is speedy. They need surgical correction but they do great. If neglected puppies are at risk. Question: My husband and me have a 5 week old Yorkie puppy who has a swollen place near his groin that our vet said was a hernia. We hoped we could wait until his was bigger to get it fixed but now the hernia is getting bigger. Is it risky to wait? Is our baby too young to have it fixed? Nichol: I share your concern. Who wants surgery-especially on some one that young and tiny? I suspect your baby weighs all of about one and a half pounds. The truth is that allowing a puppy to get bigger is usually best. But in the case of your little guy it may be too risky. What you are describing is an inguinal hernia. Here is how it works: The abdomen is where our intestines, and a lot of other organs, belong. Things are supposed to stay bundled up here. But there is a passageway on each side near the rear portion of the abdomen the groin of a person where arteries and veins go to the back legs. This is called the inguinal canal. Normally the canal is not wide enough for anything else to slip through. But in your baby, the canal is much too wide and this has allowed some of his intestines to slide into the canal. If you wait too long to get the hernia repaired you will notice a sudden onset of pain, loss of appetite, and inactivity. Now strangulated is a real medical term that means what it sounds like-that the blood supply to this area of intestine has been choked off. This is bad. It would not only require immediate surgery but would result in the removal of a portion of dead intestine. No bueno. So my advice: Get it fixed now. If it were still small and staying that way, waiting would be fine. We do this type of surgery on small fry often. We use small instruments and suture. On a little tyke like this we would put some liquid food in by stomach tube under anesthesia and provide extra fluid under the skin. This would prevent low blood sugar problems. Keeping him warm during the procedure is real important too. But in experienced hands I predict success. Go for it. Search for answers to your pet behavior questions Pages.

Autoimmune Diseases Eye Disease Most of these problems, however, can be prevented or treated as long as you are willing to monitor your dog and keep a close eye on them. You can ask your veterinarian to schedule your dog for a DNA test that will help in the determination of possible inherited diseases. There are also balanced diets that are dependent on what your dog needs. You can ask your veterinarian for a diet recommendation that is specific for your dog. Rottweiler German Shepherd Cross Food Requirements It is vital that your Rottweiler German Shepherd cross is fed the right diet to maintain its glorious health and physique. You must also keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, so exercise and proper diet is important to avoid health complications. Producers have different recipes for big dogs, so make sure you check the label when buying the best large breed dry dog food. On the other hand, its parent breeds, German Shepherd and Rottweiler, have similar dietary needs to there is not much complication as to what to feed your puppy. Older dogs will be better off with the best senior dry dog food brands. As similar with other dogs, there better the source or main ingredient is in dog food, the healthier your pet becomes. Check out our guide to best dry dog food and learn more about the nutritional requirements of canines. The main concern with dog food recipes, however, is the presence of grains. Many owners opt for a grain-free option, which is what to go for to avoid allergies in your dogs. To help you pick out the best dog food for your German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, here are some of the best high-protein dog foods: 1. Dog For Dog Food — Not only affordable, but this dog food is also grain-free which is described as what dogs would eat in the wild. It is known to have a better flavor and provides digestible energy and natural antioxidants for a healthier immune system. Wellness Core Dog Food — This dog food has recipes for all sizes and ages. It has an above-average protein and fat content, as well as below-average carbohydrates when compared to other brands. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement and similar products may be considered if you believe the dog is not getting enough micronutrients. Always consult with the vet before giving such products to your pup. They will determine whether the pooch needs their food boosted. Rottweiler German Shepherd Hybrid Exercise Requirements The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is not recommended for owners who have small homes or apartments not only because of their size but also because of their exercise requirements which will include outdoor activities that are best conducted in a spacious backyard. They can spend plenty of time enjoying the outdoors in fine weathers. They also tend to become destructive and chew a lot of things if cooped up for too long. If you are going to leave for a dog for longer than a few hours, it is better to leave them at a dog daycare so they can enjoy and socialize with other dogs. The dog is also fine with any kind of weather since they harbor a decent tolerance of heat and cold. Your dogs will need to have a good exercise regimen especially outdoors. They need to have high physical exercise if you want them to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. You can start by walking them at least twice a day for at least an hour. You can also opt to jog with your Shottie because experts also recommended that they are involved in high impact and fast-paced exercises. Like most dogs, they also enjoy playing games like balls and fetch at public parks. This can help their mind active and their muscles lean. Always remember that your pet is prone to obesity so satisfying their exercise regimen is important. Rottweiler Crossbred with German Shepherd Training Since its parent breeds are famous for their protective instincts, the chances are that the puppy will also inherit them. For this reason, you should socialize your puppy at a young age so prevent their aggressive tendencies and have them get used to the presence of other animals and people. The training your Shottie will receive highly depends on your intention for adopting the dog. First, you must ask yourself if you want them to become a guard dog or a companion dog. Positive reinforcement such as rewards and praises are highly recommended in training your pet. Here are some of the effective methods in which you can teach your dog: The Mark Good Behavior Method — Pick out a unique sound for your dog and chime it whenever your dog does something right. You can use it so that your puppy will learn that music means a reward is coming. Eventually, you can use it along with command words. The Mirror Me Method — If your dog is glued to you all the time, you can use this chance to teach them how to behave through mimicry. The Tied To You Method — If you intent your dog to become a companion dog, keep him tied to you most of the time and try to build communication and trust with them. German Shepherd Crossbreed with Rottweiler and Families One of the many ways that you can adopt a Rottman Shepherd is through rescue shelters but be careful in picking one. You must be well aware of its upbringing and temperament because there is a chance that these dogs were abandoned because of behavioral issues as a result mainly of lack of training, poor obedience, lack of socialization, or sometimes, even aggression. With small kids, it can be hard to control them because they are quite large. They might become overwhelming for the children. On the other hand, they are also in need of a company most of the time because they tend to become destructive if bored. With proper training at a young age, they can become beautiful guard dogs that are active. They can also provide families with good companionship as they love creatures. The German Shepherd? Photo by Karen Sanders Studio on Shutterstock German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes can be very intelligent dogs and even though they might be easy to train for experienced dog owners, beginners might find themselves struggling. These dogs are not as sensitive to the handler and have a high drive while being an all-rounder. Of course, all of the above depend on your exact breeding line. As many of you probably know, the Rottweiler and German Shepherd are both prone to diseases like hip dysplasia. You can control this by choosing the right breeder. A reputable breeder that tests all dogs for health will make sure that everything checks out, from the hips to the heart and eyes. Do not fall into the trap of mixing the biggest Rottie with the German Shepherd that wins the prize in every sloped back competition. Sloping backs are a real issue with the German Shepherd while the Rottie mainly has to fight with too much weight gain, especially during puppyhood. While many sources only mention up to 8 years of age for the Rottie, I actually believe that due to proper breeding, a healthy diet and environment as well as exercise, your Rottie can live well beyond that age. The exact lifespan depends heavily on various factors, of course. What most people are asking with this question is how even-tempered the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix can be. That may look surprising but the Rottweiler is actually very good with kids. Countless hours of research, watching videos, interacting with them live — all these things will help with determining if the German Shepherd Rottweiler mixed breed dog is the right choice for you. Be prepared to take on the leadership and treat your furry buddy with respect and sensitivity and they can be the most loving companion. The Rottweiler is known for not being one that forgives any serious mistakes, so make sure you have the experience and knowledge that is required. No matter what the exact fur will look like, get ready for serious shedding twice a year. Apart from shedding season, regular brushing should suffice. Both dog breeds have an undercoat which makes them suitable pets for colder climates. How big do Shepweilers actually get? Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Height: 24 — 27 inches 60—69 cm Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Weight: 85 — lbs kg As you probably suspected, females are smaller and lighter, even very tall females are roughly the same height as a small male Rottweiler , for example. Weight and height prognosis are hard enough as is, giving these numbers for mixed breeds is a lot more unpredictable. How Much Are Shepweilers? Papers may not be your focus, but the fact that purebred dogs can be health tested a lot easier since the pool of genetic diseases is smaller, makes searching a proper breeder easier. Check our lifetime cost article for more hint: the cost of my Rottie runs in the tens of thousands of dollars. Both breeds can have great obedience skills and excellent drive, just make sure you get a healthy dog that fits to your lifestyle. Do you have a GSD Rottweiler mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments down below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested, properly selected purebred puppy. Check out my article discussing the most relevant scientific study on this topic. Pin This: Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Virginia Rottweiler Rescue. Please include your name and phone number in your email. Male s and Female s Age: On the way. A fully-grown Rotterman usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Female Rottweiler puppy currently 7 weeks old. Serious inquiries only, please. They weigh between 65 and pounds and stand between 22 and 27 inches tall. Full bred perfect pets, loyal and loving breeds. Mixed Breed Dogs for Sale. Lab Rottweiler Mix puppies for sale Texas. Most reputable breeders will have health screened their Rottweiler Lab mix puppies and will be able to offer you certificates that prove as much. Hello, my name is Abbott! I am a beautiful Rottweiler, Husky Mix puppy, and I like playing! I have a very sweet personality and I love meeting new people! I am very gentle with children! My tail has been docked and my dewclaws have been removed. Rottweiler Mix Puppies for Sale. Boxador Boxer and Labrador Retriever mix puppies for sale and adoption near me by owner in United States. Rotterman Puppies For Sale. Rottie-Poos make great family companions and tend to have a sweet nature. She is very sweet and loves your attention. The Rottweiler Lab Retriever Mix is a designer dog that is a cross between the sweet-faced Labrador and the powerful Rottweiler. Good with children and other pets. The Rottweiler Lab Mix is a cross between the intelligent and friendly Labrador Retriever and the loyal and protective Rottweiler. Rottweiler lab mix: Labrottie all information you want …. Rottweiler Labrador mix has a kind, pleasant, outgoing and tractable temperament. Find Rottweiler Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Rottweiler information. Gus is a 11 mos old, lbs rottweiler mix who is the perfect combination of active outdoors and a mellow couch potato indoors. The other parent breed can affect this, so you want to ask the breeder about them and also pay attention to which breed is the. Visit Lovely Rottweilers lovelyrottweilerpuppiesforsale. Roscoe is 4 yrs old and weighs 50 lbs. Washington Rottweiler Rescue. I'm a small, young Rottweiler-Shepherd mix in need of a new home. Rottweiler Puppies. Parents are AKC puppies will not be papered. Rottweiler .Rottweiler Puppies For Sale. Purpose: companion, woking dog. Find Rottweiler puppies for sale. Rottermans generally live for years on average. Check out Keystone Puppies' Rottweiler mix puppies for sale. Rehome buy and sell, and give an animal a forever home with Preloved! Your Rottie mix will have. The Rottweiler's name comes from their history working as cattle dogs in the town of Rottweil. Find your perfect furry companion today! If you are unable to find your Rottweiler puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru. However, despite their popularity, Rottador puppies can still be challenging to find. Rottweiler Lab Mix puppies for sale in Michigan. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. They are also known as the Labrottie or Rottador! Popularity: growing. I am a beautiful Rottweiler, Husky Mix puppy, and I like playing! Rottweiler Mix Puppies For Sale. We Have Puppies!!! Contact us: Call or text. As long as they have been properly socialized, they are well-mannered and get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. This dog breed generally lives 8 to 11 years. I am very gentle with children! Rottweilers for Sale in Philadelphia. Find local lab mix in dogs and puppies in the UK and Ireland. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Serious puppy seeking families only please. Male, 1 Year 11 Months Old. The size of Labrador Rottweiler mixes can vary widely. Rottweiler Lab Mix: Complete Guide. Date Available: May 10, .Rottweiler puppies for sale. Rottweiler Puppies in Arizona. Carly is the sweetest pup that loves to cuddle, play, act silly and give kisses! Her ideal home would have another. German Rottweilers Puppies for sale. Weight: lbs! Temperament: Loyal, active, affectionate. Labrottie Puppies for Sale. Please contact anytime at XXXX. The Rottweiler is known for its strength, intelligence, and protective instincts, while the Lab is loved for its playful nature and friendly personality. Doberman Mix Puppies For Sale. All are solid black and almost identical. Adopted Rottweiler. LAb and Rottweiler cross. This mixed breed dog is known for its size, athleticism, This advert is located in and around Doncaster, Send money internationally, transfer money to friends and family, pay bills in person and more at a Western Union location in Rantepao, South Sulawesi. This hero is a big-boned muscular working and guardian dog with webbed-feet, a water-resistant double thick coat, and huge lungs, that allow them to swim through icy waters for a long time as a lifeguard. They were also among the first dog breeds used as guide dogs for the blind. There is a male brown and black female. Rottadors are typically healthy dogs but like all breeds, they can suffer from health problems specific to their breed. Rottadors are slowly taking over the pet community by storm. Tall and muscular, they like activity, and with good training, they're loving and silly pals. Rotterman Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Rotterman page! A Rottweiler will usually stand between 23 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weight between 75 and pounds. So, we narrow down your options to only the best Rottweiler mixes to help you in making a decision. The Rottweiler is known for its strength, intelligence, and protective instincts, while the. Rottweiler puppies for sale from trusted breeders. A fully-grown Doberman Pinscher is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The following is a list of possible Rottweiler mixes for you to consider: 1. Rottweiler Puppies for Sale in Colorado. Similar Rottweiler Mix Puppies. Puppies for Sale Near Me. They can be bought together or individually. The Rottweiler lab mix puppies for sale inherited the best of both parents' qualities. So if you are keen on getting a Labrottie puppy, be prepared to go on a tough hunt. Rottweiler mix puppies for sale. Rottaf Breed Information and Pictures. Hi there! My name is Roscoe, and I am a very handsome dog who is looking Rottweiler mix. Rottweiler mixed with Labrador Retriever or half Lab half Rottweiler is a product of two purebreds with very different personalities. I was rescued from a California. Sooo cute! They are known to have a very soft feel to the mouth, as a result of being bred to retrieve game such as waterfowl. One liners and no phone numbers will not. Rottweiler and Lab Mix: Parent breeds. I have been given my vaccinations and dewormers. Currently, we do not have any Rottie-Poo puppies available, but we can alert you when new Rottie-Poo puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! This tool allows you to look up elevation data by searching address or clicking on a live google map. Rottweilers sometimes get an unfair rap as aggressive, but they're really just a loyal breed with protective instincts. The German shepherd and the rottweiler are popular breeds, each hailing from Germany individually, and both are known for their higher intelligence and effectiveness as working dogs. Police forces and the military often use the German shepherd rottweiler mix due to their intelligent, easily trainable nature; this nature also makes them a good choice for service dog duties. Today, many individuals and families recognize the benefits of adding this protective, watchful breed to their family, and this mix is steadily gaining popularity as a companionship dog. Because this dog is a designer breed and there are no breed standards for the mixed breed, the appearance of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can vary greatly. That being said, they tend to have longer snouts, strong hindquarters due to the athletic nature of both the German shepherd and the rottweiler, and either floppy or straight ears depending on their individual genetics. They are a larger breed and weigh approximately pounds on average. The coat color of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is often black or brown, but there may be traces of tan, brown, or grey. They are likely to be bi-colored and may have rottweiler or German shepherd patterning depending on which genetics win out in the breeding process. The coat of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is thicker and smooth, and it may have a short to medium length. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a large-sized dog. They stand between 22 and 27 inches tall and weigh between 75 and pounds. There is not much difference in size and weight between males and females of this breed. Their coat is thicker and smooth and typically short, though medium-length hair sometimes occurs. If your German shepherd rottweiler mix has longer hair, they will likely require brushing more often. The temperament of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can only be described as loyal, protective, and dedicated. This is a breed that will be devoted to its family, and they will form strong bonds with their primary caretaker. While many individuals may perceive them as aloof or aggressive based on their appearance, they can actually be quite cuddly. Oftentimes, this breed will assume they are a lap dog, following you everywhere around your home so they can spend time with you and keep an eye on you. Therefore, they may be prone to aggressiveness or destructive behavior if they are not properly socialized, trained, and cared for. Contrary to their appearance, the German shepherd rottweiler mix can be quite affectionate. They are protective and dedicated to their families, and they will love to spend all their time around you, whether cuddling, playing, or simply napping at your side while you go about your daily life. The German shepherd rottweiler mix may be good with children in certain circumstances. Additionally, your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need to be properly socialized and trained to understand how to interact with children correctly. Homes with older children are likely ok for this dog, but you should always supervise playtime between your dog and children. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be good with other animals as long as they are introduced slowly and your dog has been properly trained and socialized. In most cases, however, they get along with other animals easily. Many individuals may believe this dog is aggressive due to their appearance and the fact that they are a mix of two of the more popular guard breeds. As long as you properly socialize your dog this can be done with a dog of any age if needed , commit to a consistent training schedule, and make sure that your German shepherd rottweiler mix gets plenty of exercise throughout the day, they are unlikely to be aggressive. They may still bark at perceived threats and be generally untrusting of strangers, but this is due to their protective, loyal nature more than it is aggressiveness. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix is unlikely to be very vocal and bark without reason. Mostly, you will hear this dog bark only when they perceive a threat, are trying to alert you to something, or feel the need to protect you. You can train proper barking habits into your dog, and part of what makes them a good watchdog is their ability to bark and alert their owners only in certain situations. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a combination of two of the more intelligent dog breeds around today, making them fairly smart. They require a higher amount of mental stimulation than other dog breeds, and they do best when presented with a consistent training routine. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are eager to please and love learning new things. In most cases, the German shepherd rottweiler mix will be easy to train thanks to their hard-working nature and their intelligence. Never use negative reinforcement such as yelling or hitting to train this dog or any dog , as they will likely learn to hate training sessions and distrust you, leading to destructive and aggressive behaviors. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a high-energy breed and require a lot of exercise and other physical stimulation to stay happy. You will need to give them at least an hour or two of exercise per day and make sure that they receive a minimum of two long walks each day. Additionally, they will need plenty of space to run around in safely and have outdoor time to spend with their families and toys. This breed is a great choice if you already have an active lifestyle full of hiking, long walks, and time outside and want to add an energetic companion to it. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the best choice for an apartment dog. They are a large dog breed and need plenty of space to exercise, sleep, and play in around your home. Apartments with small living quarters, breed restrictions, and minimal access to the outdoors or dog park play areas are not the best living conditions for this breed. Your dog may develop destructive or aggressive behaviors due to the lack of space and exercise areas. A larger home with plenty of outdoor access or a fenced-in backyard makes the best living choice for this dog breed. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a great choice for a watchdog. This breed is known for being loyal, protective, and watchful, and they are naturally wary around strangers due to their dedication to their family. They are also a relatively quiet breed, so when your German shepherd rottweiler mix starts barking, you know that they are doing it for a purpose. Your dog can be trained for watchdog and guard dog duties in addition to their natural propensity for watchfulness, and their appearance alone may be enough to scare off potential threats. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be a good choice for a service dog. This breed is intelligent, skilled at learning new commands, and large enough to be an effective mobility or medical service dog. They are also quite loyal and watchful, which are great characteristics for a psychiatric service dog. Additionally, as a combination of two working breeds, they thrive when able to perform commands for their owners, which makes them especially suited for daily service dog tasks. How to Care for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need proper care to ensure their health and happiness. First, make sure that your dog is getting an hour or two of exercise each day, including at least two walks per day, and that they have plenty of toys and outdoor playtime. This will help them meet their physical stimulation needs and ensure they stay happy; this also decreases destructive behaviors. You should be feeding your dog high-quality wet or dry food based on their dietary needs and size, and you can supplement their diet with nutritional treats. Make sure to maintain a consistent training routine with your German shepherd, as this will help meet their mental stimulation needs. Brush your German shepherd rottweiler mix a few times a week or more if they have a longer coat, and take them for professional grooming occasionally to ensure their nails, ears, and coat are all kept in top condition. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the most high-maintenance dog, but they will likely need occasional baths and professional grooming visits. Grooming can be especially helpful around shedding season when the fur coming off of this dog generally increases. German shepherd rottweiler mixes have an average shedding amount, but their thicker coat ensures that a lot of hair will come off during shedding season. You should brush your dog regularly to help with proper shedding and preventing tangles, and you may want to bathe them more regularly or take them for a professional groom during shedding season. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need approximately 40 to 50 calories per pound of body weight as a starting point. For most dry dog foods, this equates to about a cup to a cup and a half of food per day split into two or three meals. Consult a veterinarian if you need assistance calculating how much to feed your dog. Many dogs are prone to genetic health conditions or other specific health issues based on their breed, and the German shepherd rottweiler is no different. This breed may be prone to conditions such as: Joint degeneration. This combination of two breeds has been used for many purposes throughout history, but they are most commonly seen today as family pets or working dogs. The purpose of this article is to explore the unique characteristics and temperament that make up this exciting hybrid. The Rottweiler is one of the oldest known herding breeds in existence, having been around since Roman times when they were used to herd cattle and guard livestock. On the other hand, the German Shepherd was developed more recently during the late 19th century from various European Shepherd breeds for use as police dogs and military sentries. Together, these two powerful breeds have created a loyal and intelligent crossbreed that excels at just about anything you train them for! When it comes to Rottweiler German Shepherd temperament there are some key similarities between both parent breeds that may be passed onto their offspring. Both parents display strong loyalty towards their owners which can often result in intense devotion; however, it is important to note that early socialization will help ensure your pup grows into a well-rounded adult who gets along great with children and other animals alike. Additionally, both parents possess natural protectiveness which makes this mix ideal for families looking for a watchful companion. These beautiful dogs are a blend of two powerful breeds, combining strength and agility with reliability and intelligence. Their coats can range from black and tan to solid brown or cream, sometimes with white markings. They often have thick double coats that require regular brushing and grooming. It should also be noted that this mix is prone to drooling due to its parentage. However, both Rottweilers and German Shepherds suffer from hip dysplasia so this may be something you need to watch out for if your dog is at risk. Grooming requirements are fairly straightforward; brush once or twice a week using a soft bristle brush and bathe as needed — no more than every other month! With consistent training and plenty of playtime throughout the day, these loyal companions can make wonderful family pets! This breed combines the loyalty and intelligence of both the Rottweiler and German Shepherd, creating an unstoppable powerhouse that loves to work hard and play harder. Despite their superhuman strength, these dogs are actually quite gentle with those they trust; making them great family pets when properly socialized and trained. In fact, regular exercise, training, and socialization is essential for any Rottweiler German Shepherd in order to keep their energy levels in check and ensure proper behavior around people and other animals alike. A well-exercised dog is a happy one! With consistent care and attention, your four-legged friend will prove themselves time again to be not only courageous but loving too. Check out the video below of Bonnie, the beautiful Rottweiler German Shepherd Mix puppy pottering around the home! It is essential to recognize that your hybrid breed will likely possess several traits from both breeds. As such, you must take care when training them as they may not respond in the same way as either of their purebred parents would. When adopting a Shepweiler, socialization should begin immediately and continue throughout their life. This includes exposing them to different people and animals so they can develop positive associations with those around them. It is also necessary to establish yourself as the alpha in order for successful training sessions. Firm yet gentle guidance should always be used during these times together. Training your pup using rewards-based methods will help foster trust between you and your Shepweiler while encouraging good behaviors. A variety of activities can be explored including agility courses, obedience classes, scent-tracking games, or even just going on walks every day! The key takeaway here is that any dog requires patience and consistency from its owner; this goes double for hybrid breeds like the Shepweiler which have an innate combination of genetic traits from two distinct dogs. Just like a train, these dogs need the occasional pit stop to refuel and get cleaned up before they can keep going. Exercise is essential for this breed in order to maintain their physical health as well as mental alertness. When it comes to exercise, one size does not fit all when it comes to the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix. The amount of activity that each particular dog needs will vary depending on its age and overall energy level. Puppies of course require more vigorous workouts than adult dogs who have much lower levels of energy — but even adults need plenty of regular exercise in order to remain healthy and happy! These mixes are working breeds so you should make sure your pup gets at least an hour or two of moderate activity every day — such as taking them out for walks or having them run around in the yard with other dogs or people. With enough exercise, your mixed-breed companion will be content and full of life which makes both you and your pup happier in the long run. This breed needs an owner who can provide it with plenty of mental challenges, such as training and obedience classes or puzzles to solve. The best way to keep your mixed breed stimulated mentally is by providing them with regular activity and exercise. A bored pup will find ways to entertain themselves which may not be ideal behavior. So take advantage of their intelligence and focus on activities like agility courses, nose work, tricks, and commands. Not only are these activities fun but they also help build a bond between you and your pup. Taking time out of each day to give your Rottweiler German Shepherd mix something new to learn helps them stay sharp — both physically and mentally. Grooming Requirements When it comes to grooming requirements, the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix is a unique breed. As an example, take Betty. She is a one-year-old Rottweiler German Shepherd mix who lives with her family in Texas. Like all dogs of this particular hybrid, Betty requires regular brushing and bathing to keep her coat looking its best. This will help keep her coat shiny and remove any dirt or debris from deep within the fur. Regular checkups are also recommended to make sure she remains healthy during these sessions. In addition to professional grooming, proper nutrition plays an important role in keeping Betty looking good too! Her diet should contain high-quality proteins and fats along with plenty of vitamins and minerals so she can get all the nutrients she needs for optimal health. Providing the right food for your pup goes hand in hand with regular grooming; together these two elements can give them their happiest life possible! They need high-quality protein sources in their diet — this will help them grow strong and healthy. Talk to your vet about the best way to feed your Rottweiler German Shepherd mix so they get all the essential nutrients they need. Your pup deserves only the highest quality meals available. Feeding them with nutritious ingredients like grass-fed beef, organic chicken, oats, brown rice, vegetables, fruits, and fish will give them everything they need for a healthy life. Avoid processed foods or anything with preservatives — these can lead to obesity and poor overall health in your mixed-breed dog. Give your pet plenty of fresh water too! Health Conditions The Rottweiler German Shepherd mixes may be prone to certain health conditions that are common in their parent breeds. Bloat Bloat, also known as gastric torsion, is a life-threatening condition. This condition is more common in deep-chested breeds like the Rottweiler and German Shepherd. Heart Disease Rottweilers and German Shepherds are both at risk for certain types of heart disease, such as dilated cardiomyopathy DCM and aortic stenosis. This means a hybrid of these two breeds is likely to be at risk too. DCM is a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weakened. Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood. Regular check-ups with your vet can help detect and manage these conditions. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye, while PRA is a degenerative disease that leads to blindness. Regular eye exams can help detect and manage these conditions. Cancer Like most dog breeds, Rottweiler German Shepherd mixes may be at risk for certain types of cancer. This can include osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, and hemangiosarcoma, a cancer of the blood vessels. Are They Good with Children? Many people wonder if a Rottweiler German Shepherd mix is suitable for families with children. With proper training and socialization, they can be wonderful family dogs that get along well with children. As long as they receive appropriate training and are handled correctly, they make loyal companions who adore spending time around youngsters. Similarly, German Shepherds also possess good natures around kids. They are known to be gentle and loving towards them once trained properly. Invite your friends over with their own little ones or take your pup out for short walks around the neighborhood. This will help them learn how to interact properly with smaller humans from an early age. Also, remember that positive reinforcement techniques such as praising and rewarding good behavior works wonders—it will teach any doggy not only how best to behave around children but also create strong bonds between pup and parent alike! Are They Compatible with Other Dogs? Generally speaking, Rottweiler German Shepherd mixes are more tolerant than either breed on their own. Though some may be wary at first, most will learn quickly that other canines mean no harm if given proper socialization early on in life. This will help ensure the interaction remains peaceful and everyone involved feels safe and comfortable throughout it. With guidance from yourself and time spent getting acquainted with different types of doggy personalities, your pup will become an expert at making friends! The Rottweiler German Shepherd mix is a great option for first-time owners looking to add a pup to their family. This hybrid brings together the strength and intelligence of both parent breeds: the Rottweiler and German Shepherd. Training should also start from puppyhood and continue throughout adulthood — something all new pet parents will want to keep in mind! Overall, Rottweilers mixed with German Shepherds can make loving, devoted pets. This is assuming they are given the right attention and care by dedicated owners who understand their needs. However, uneducated pet parents may find themselves overwhelmed since these pups tend to require more training than other breeds. This breed typically has a lifespan of around years. Generally speaking, when two different breeds are blended together in one puppy, any potential hereditary diseases from either parent will be lessened or avoided altogether. However, just like with their purebred parents there may be some cases where underlying conditions can arise unexpectedly due to genetics — so always consult your vet about having regular checkups for your pooch. That said, providing proper care and nutrition is essential for any pet and especially important for longer-living dogs such as this mix. So, make sure you stick to daily routines which include exercise, playtime, and quality food. This will help keep them happy throughout their lives! Following these guidelines will give your furry friend the best chance at living a long and fulfilling life full of love and cuddles! Puppy Prices Puppy prices can vary widely for mixed-breed puppies. By doing your homework beforehand and being aware of potential pitfalls expensive medical bills! Now that you have a better understanding of puppy prices, it is time to talk about where to buy a Rottweiler and German Shepherd mix. This breed is one of the most popular mixed breeds in the world and can be found at many pet stores or dog breeders. In addition, make sure the breeder provides socialization services such as obedience classes or play dates with other puppies in order for your pup to develop properly. Investing in proper breeding practices will give you peace of mind knowing that your pup was cared for correctly during its infancy stages while helping him become an emotionally balanced adult canine companion! Final Thoughts It is clear that the Rottweiler and German Shepherd mix is a magnificent dog with many positive attributes. For those who are considering bringing one of these majestic canines into their home, there are certain considerations to be taken into account. This pup will require plenty of space and regular exercise in order to stay happy and healthy; house training should also be a top priority when it comes to these dogs. Although they make excellent protectors for your family, proper training must be provided in order for them to fulfill this role responsibly. Depending on where you live, your pet may prefer different types of climates — so remember to provide suitable shelter during extreme weather conditions! Last but not least, regular medical care is essential as part of being a responsible pet owner. From their awe-inspiring strength and intelligence to their loyal nature and reliability — owning such an awesome canine companion really is akin to having your own personal guardian angel by your side! I guarantee that any devoted human companion would feel truly blessed indeed if they were able to experience this divine relationship firsthand.

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs can help children grow stronger. Dogs are a mood booster. Historically, dogs have been great companions. Research has shown that it only takes a mere minutes with your pet to feel more relaxed and calm per Web, MD. Also, when children reach out and pet or hug their dog, they are giving of themselves and soon feel better. Why pay for tranquilizers? Besides, who wants to put children on drugs any way? Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Hence, the name of Anchorage. Later, in , the U. Several gold strikes in Alaska, one in and one in brought more development to the territory. The new residents wanted the name of Alaska City for their new community, but the government refused their name change. Anchorage incorporated on 23 November .Fort Richardson and Elmendorf Air Force Base, along with the discovery of oil on the Kenai Peninsula in led to this explosion in population. The Port of Anchorage was finished in the early s. The distance from Anchorage to Washington DC is miles. The distance to the Alaska state capital is miles. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! If you are looking for reliable Labrador breeders in Alaska, this article is for you! Rest assured that all breeders on this list are AKC-licensed. Its puppies come with paid registration, tests and veterinary care, health insurance, and guarantees on elbows, hips, and even a few genetic diseases. Moreover, the methods of caring for the puppies include deworming at 9 weeks old, raw feeding, positive reinforcement, and minimal medications. Labrador is microchipped when bringing home a puppy from this breeder. At the same time, your Labrador is sent home with a puppy collar, puppy leash, food starter Bag, Volhard personality test, and a blanket with the scents of the parent or littermates to make your puppy feel at ease. You may reach out to the breeder for more details. Their dogs are healthy and intelligent. The dogs make both great family pets and sporty hunting companions. In addition to breeding, they also offer stud services. Pamela Hodgson has been operating this kennel since .This breeder aims for a good disposition for their Labradors. It offers both puppies and older dogs the first vaccine and guarantees for eyes and hips. Most importantly, all dogs are checked by a veterinarian and removed claws and worms. Address: Carlisle St. Her healthy beautiful puppies are all vaccinated and dewormed. Furthermore, Joanne cares for the puppies like her own and ensures that each one goes home with a microchip. They have been in business since , raising and showing exceptional quality Labradors. These Labradors have fantastic swimming, hunting , and running skills. The breeders ensure puppies only go to the most beautiful and trustworthy families who are up to the challenge of bringing them up in a good environment. Similarly, this is why the breeders make sure not to sell the puppies to pet shops. L-N-R kennel is here to help. They strive to breed their yellow Labradors with a calm temperament, good looks, and hunting capabilities. The kennel is family-owned and run by Linda and Rick Volkman who have been in the business since .L-N-R breeders have earned a long list of satisfied customers in the past decades. Their dogs are dewormed and have guaranteed hips. Certainly, these ensure that you bring home a healthy companion.

My name is Mitzi Michelle Brooks. I have had dogs all my life and German Shepherds most of that time. I have tried different breeds, but always come back to what I know and love. The German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for me. I breed large, old-fashioned, straight-backed, German Shepherds with a special focus on health and temperament. I am a very small breeder, all my dogs live with me, in the house. They are first, and foremost, my beloved pets. In my litters, I concentrate on the things that matter most to me: Health and Temperament. My dogs are all larger than the breed standard but with no compromise to their health. All my dogs are medium to low energy, making them easy to train and ideally suited for families. I do not breed: dogs that are hyper, dogs that show any signs of aggression, working dogs, high drive dogs, or dogs with excessive angulation. Puppies are born and raised in my home! That means your puppy goes home with you already socialized with other dogs, with cats, and familiar with all the sights and sounds of a normal home. All puppies are also current on vaccinations and on a set deworming schedule. The puppies bred here are sold as companions and pets. Just as working dogs are bred to work, my puppies are bred to live in and be a part of a family. With their low to low-medium drive, my pups are very easy for their new parents to train and still possess that famous German Shepherd instinct to protect their home and their family. These soft temperaments mean that my dogs are happy to go out and play, but just as happy to come in, lay at your feet, and interact with their family. Our dogs are x-rayed and certified through the orthopedic foundation for animals OFA and they are also PennHip certified. We participate in conformation shows through the United Kennel Club and have several champions. Learn more about our breeding program here Knowledge in raising the finest puppies There is more to producing amazing puppies than just careful selection in breeding. We strive to produce perfection in the way we nourish, train and enrich our puppies lives from birth. What sets us above the rest is the enrichment we provide for our litters. We go the extra mile to make sure that our puppies have the best start in life as possible. We focus on quality over quantity by never having more then 2 litters at a time. We have been raising these magnificent dogs for over 20 years. Learn more about how our puppies are raised here Located in beautiful South Carolina We are located in the beautiful midlands of South Carolina. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! Learn more about GSD colors here We hope you enjoy looking around our website and getting to know about us, our dogs and the unique way we raise our puppies! Visits are by appointment only. If you are in California and want a puppy from us we can still make it happen as we can deliver! My husband got this made for me in .We specialize in family companion dogs, and our dogs are used for children with Autism and Aspergers. We also provide dogs for epileptic and diabetic detection, as well the hearing impaired. Our dogs also serve as companions to veterans , and we work closely with VA hospitals to provide dogs who assist with PTSD and anxiety. A large number of our dogs are also competitors and working schutzhund dogs. We make use of a private courier service to pick up and deliver our dogs. We're very mindful to ensure the dogs are completely happy throughout the delivery! If we think you're the right match for one of our dogs we can deliver them to you wherever you are based in the US. All of our dogs come with a lifetime guarantee on health contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Our dogs are gentle and attentive and have dispositions perfect for family companionship or special needs. Puppies come with comprehensive training included, along with a full year of shots. A list of individual dogs accomplishments include Va Winnie, Va Ollie, V1 Saint and many dogs involved in the 6xwinner of the progeny group competition. Regis Regal German Shepherds have also worked in many different areas of public service, such as patrol dogs, search and rescue dogs, avalanche rescue dogs, bomb detection, narcotic detection, and even arson dogs. As featured in Puppy Rental for Special Events Looking for a memorable experience at your next event? Rent one of our German Shepherd dogs for a limited time at your next special event. Our team is perfect for birthdays, conferences, conventions, company retreats, and special events all over the country! Get in touch with our AKC German Shepherd breeders to learn more about our puppy rental services and event guidelines. Contact our team to learn more. Client Testimonials "I purchased my German Shepard from them when she was a puppy and she is now a beautiful, sweet tempered 4-year-old dog. We took home our pup and have had only good thoughts and things to say since we left. Cindy shared so much time and knowledge with us before we left. Axle just turned two years old and will be an important part of my kids lives as they grow up. We work closely with them in order to train our dogs to assist veterans with PTSD, anxiety, and more. Cindy's Latest Articles Cindy Kelly loves to share her expertise on breeding, training and raising world class German Shepherds. When she has time she publishes articles on the Regis Regal blog - you can find some of her most recent ones listed below. If you would like to hear Cindy's thoughts on any particular element of owning or raising German Shepherds then feel free to get in touch. Learn here! Read More Trending States Based on their Interest in our World-Class German Shepherds We make use of a high quality, private courier service to deliver our dogs where a customer is unable to come to our premises in Illinois. We typically have a litter or two of GSD pups per year and one Malinois litter per year. Our focus is producing a well-balanced working dog that is healthy both physically and genetically and temperamentally sound. We have sold to many individuals from coast to coast in the US. Contact us for more information or to get on the waiting list. This little dude will make someone a very nice companion dog. His on-leash obedience training has begun. She will do best in an active home even though she can settle down. Inquisitive, confident, active. She has a sweet side and eager to please. She is very alert and will let you know when a stranger approaches the home. He is confident, inquisitive, AKC, active, but able to settle down nicely. He has alot of personality that makes him a sweet catch. Taz is eager to please his human. Tater Born: March 7, Tater is a male Labrador retriever that we hoped would end up as a police detection dog. Contact us for current pricing. Companion male. Pups are released at 8 weeks of age. In the event the preferred sex of the puppy is not available in this litter, the deposit will be refunded; otherwise deposits are considered non-refundable. Prices subject to change without notice, although never after a deposit is received. We breed healthy parents from proven working bloodlines to produce strong, healthy pups of stable temperaments and solid nerves. Our goal is to produce a real German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois adding to this prestigious breeds, never taking away. We usually whelp one or two litters a year. Occasionally we have older German Shepherd puppies for sale or young adult German Shepherds available see our DogBlog article on easily bonding with older puppies or young adults. Puppies are released at 8 weeks of age, after having been examined by a licensed veterinarian, receiving their second shots, and receiving many hours of observation and interaction. They will be well on their way towards house-training and socialized to as many things as possible for their age. Check back often to see if we have any German Shepherd Dogs or Puppies for sale as well as Malinois puppy for sale. Whether you are looking to become a certified dog trainer or just looking into the best place to get your dog trained, Conifer Canine's Dog Trainer College can help! Sign up for dog training now and take steps to a more obedient K9 or invest in yourself by enrolling now into our dog trainer school program offered both in-person or online! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

They are moderately active, but highly social which makes them well suited to life as a family pet or companion. This is a guide to taking care of them through their early months, from birth to puppyhood. Neonatal During the first 4 weeks of your French Bulldog's life, they should spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your French Bulldog puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks introduce a few dry kibbles soaked in warm water. Health During this time it is important to monitor your French Bulldog for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach Behaviour During most of this time your French Bulldog will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. Weaning When you take your French Bulldog home usually at around 8 weeks you should shower them with love and attention. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. Make the most of this time and treat every interaction with your Frenchie as a learning opportunity to develop their fun, playful personality. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Frenchie's small size and young age. French Bulldogs are notoriously food-driven, but if they develop a taste for human food, they will likely become fussy eaters and cause headaches later in life by refusing dog food. Be sure to familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. Colostrum, rich in natural antibodies, proven to enhance immune response 2. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development 3. Colostrum proven to balance intestinal micro flora, helps protect your puppy from common intestinal upsets 4. Highly digestible quality ingredients for superior nutrient absorption 5. Easy rehydration of kibble for weaning 6. Scientifically proven antioxidants to boost immune defence 7. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health During this time you should provide your puppy with a small, shallow bowl of clean water and refresh the contents frequently. Your puppy will also need to be toilet trained during this time so that they don't make a mess of your home. Your Frenchie will soon be a fun and loyal friend, but for now you will have to clean up if they have particularly unpleasant bowel movements. You can combat this by not changing their diet suddenly as this will stress their digestive system. Behaviour Due to changes in diet and environment, your Frenchie will likely be under a significant amount of stress. As a social breed, it is important that you are affectionate and supportive during this time so they feel at home in their new surroundings. Yelling at your puppy during this will only alienate your Frenchie as they are particularly sensitive to human voice — being too aggressive with them may cause fear and distrust. Puppy By the time your French Bulldog reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed. Show them love by appealing to their intelligent and often funny personality by playing with them regularly, exercising daily and introducing them to new friends from an early age. Nutrition Your French Bulldog puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Keep snacks such as dog treats and table scraps to a minimum during puppyhood and familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health French Bulldogs have a fair amount of energy and should be walked regularly to avoid excessive weight gain. Be aware that later in life, many French Bulldogs develop breathing difficulties due to their unusually flat face. While mostly up to genetics, you can reduce the symptoms of problems by keeping your puppy fit and not allowing them to exert themselves on hot or humid days. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters. Behaviour French Bulldog puppies are generally very friendly and well-suited to spending time around other animals and children. However, it's very important to proactively introduce them to the outside world including other people, dogs, places and children to avoid development of aggressive behaviours based on fear later in life. It is highly recommended that you take your French Bulldog to puppy training classes. Recommended Articles. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! The French Bulldog is prone to some health issues such as brachycephalic upper airway syndrome BUAS , allergies , and obesity. Feeding them appropriate nutrition is important in keeping our Frenchies healthy. Read further to learn how to choose the best food out there for your canine friend. French Bulldogs have similar nutritional needs to other dogs. They need to be fed high quality protein and a good source of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Protein is the building block for muscle and gives your dog energy. Feeding Puppy French Bulldogs Puppies need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. French Bulldog puppies grow rapidly in the first 6 months of their life and need the appropriate diet in order to grow properly. They need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. As puppies do a LOT of growing, their diets should be high in calories to give them fuel for this. Their diets should have high quality proteins with no high carb fillers or preservatives. It should be an easy-to-digest food with human-grade ingredients. Check the back of the food bag to see how much your puppy should be eating and ask your vet for advice on feeding when they get their vaccinations. Your French Bulldog puppy can start eating adult food from months of age. There are so many foods out there on the market that it can be really confusing trying to pick a food for your dog. We have some pointers when it comes to picking good quality food for your dog. First of all, look at the ingredient list. The ingredient list should be easy to read with recognizable whole food ingredients. The list should be relatively short as long lists can indicate unnecessary high carb filler ingredients. The ingredients should be high quality and clearly stated e. The diet should be free from preservatives and high carb filler ingredients like potato, rice, oats, barley, pasta, corn, or wheat. Dog foods are available in many forms such as dry food, wet canned food, dehydrated food, raw food, and lightly cooked human-grade diets. Some ingredients in certain foods can be harmful to our pooches, including excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. These include excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. Along with those, some human foods are harmful to our dogs too. You should avoid feeding your Frenchie these foods; Onions. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings! French Bulldog Puppy Weight Chart Your French Bulldog puppy should eat more protein and less carbs The French bulldog is a breed of dogs prone to various health issues because of their genes. To help them live a better life, it is important to provide them with nutritious meals that include all the essential things that their body needs. Frenchies are classed as a brachycephalic breed of dog, which means that they have a very short muzzle and are flat-faced. This shape of the face makes it really hard for them to breathe, so they have to be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. French bulldog puppies need food that contains protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Frenchies can potentially suffer from a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome, or BASS. BASS can lead to a variety of health issues. Commercially prepared food seems to be the most convenient but be wary about the ingredients and chemicals that are mixed in this food. In choosing commercially prepared foods, watch out and avoid preservatives like ethozyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , and butylated hydroxytoluene BHT that are common to mass-produced food. They may also contain lots of sugar that is also not good for your Frenchie puppy. It is up to you to choose whether you go for commercially prepared food or if you want to create a healthy homemade meal for your Frenchie. Combine quality meat, vegetables and some sources of vitamins and minerals. You can prepare either a cooked dish or a raw meal for your Frenchie. Food Allergies Of Your French Bulldog Puppy Food allergies are also quite common to Frenchies so you have to be very careful with what to feed them and be very observant about the allergy symptoms. They may come from products such as beef, chicken, fish, corn, wheat, soy, lamb, and eggs. The only way to know what your Frenchie is allergic to is through trial and error. To cope with the growth spurts that the Frenchies experience, frequent feedings is best. Owners need to feed their puppies with a well-balanced meal, 3 times a day. They should also be properly hydrated to ensure continuous and healthy growth. Remember that it is not enough that your Frenchie is eating, the quality of food you feed also greatly affects their health. A great option is to feed them wet food as well as dry food. Feeding your French bulldog is essential for their health and well-being. They need a well-balanced diet to prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which can shorten their life expectancy. Pups do not need to eat very often; however, they should be fed at least once every 12 hours. Always have fresh water available and consider purchasing a water fountain for your dog that can also dispense tiny treats. When it comes to feeding your puppy, many people wonder what should be in their food. The answer ultimately depends on the type of puppy food you buy.