golden retriever puppies chehalis wa

At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! 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If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All of those breeders have a proven track record and are committed to the highest standards of ethical breeding and health testing. Carefully screening the parent dogs helps the breeders to choose the healthiest pups for breeding purposes. You can also reach out to your friends, family members, or neighbors who have recently adopted a Labradoodle in your state and ask about their experiences with different breeders. They raise their pups in their home and socialize each puppy with adults, children, and other dogs. In addition to that, their pups eat high quality human-grade food and receive lots of love and care every single day. What Makes This Breeder Unique? ADEL is a recommended breeder by Goldendoodles. They carefully select their breeding dogs and all of them have undergone rigorous health and genetic testing to produce the healthiest puppies. Although they currently have no information about vaccines and dewormings on their website, feel free to reach out to them via email or phone to learn more. We are a small home based breeder of a wonderful family oriented and very versatile breed of dog called the "Australian Labradoodle". Our breeding dogs are considered part of the family and puppies are raised in our home with lots of socialization, love and affection. We only have two breeding dogs that live in our home and all of our other breeding dogs live in wonderful guardian homes. We specialize in breeding medium size and small standard size Multi-Generational Australian Labradoodles and only breed a couple litters a year. Our medium size is about inches tall and average weights around lbs. Our small standard size is about inches tall and average weights around lbs. We offer a variety of colors red caramel, chocolate, cream, chocolate and white parti as well as caramel and white parti. Arizona Labradoodles is thoroughly "Committed to Responsible Breeding. Let us share with you what makes us Responsible Breeders. Our Dames and Sires to our litters are all health tested to the highest possible standards. Each of our dogs are genetic tested for all 22 recessive diseases found in the Australian Labradoodle. We feel the financial investment in health testing our breeding dogs is critical for betterment of the breed. Our high standards of health testing gives us great comfort knowing we are offering our families puppies that come from generations of health tested dogs. This has been done to protect the buyer and support parentage identification. We only work with Australian Labradoodle breeders that are also "Committed to Responsible Breeding" and the preservation of the Australian Labradoodle breed. We place our whelping box next to our bed to ensure a safe delivery of puppies and to monitor mom. During your puppies first weeks of life they are carefully cared for by us and never left alone. Each puppy is raised inside our home and are properly socialized with a variety of people, different noises, they are bathed, blow dried, nail trimmed, held and loved by us every day until they are ready to go to their new home. Each of our puppies is exposed to early neurological stimulation exercises known as the "Super Dog" Program. Studies have proven positive benefits for improved cardio performance, stronger heart beats, stronger adrenal glands, more tolerance to stress and greater resistance to disease. Each puppy receives a full health evaluation and given age appropriate vaccinations by a licensed Veterinarian. We stand behind our 2 year health guarantee and lifetime guarantee against recessive diseases. When you adopt your puppy we want you to feel comfortable knowing we have done everything we can to offer you a good start with a healthy happy puppy. Our health guarantee protects you and your precious furry family member against life threatening diseases, joint dysplasia, and 22 recessive diseases. We are here for you for the life of your Arizona Labradoodle. If you have any questions, concerns, or need any guidance we will try and help you in any way we can. Our adoptive families have been carefully chosen to be a part of the "Arizona Labradoodles Family" for a reason. We look forward to keeping in touch with you. We often get the question "What is a Australian Labradoodle? Fabulous fleece coats that are allergy friendly Non shedding There are a variety of sizes and coat colors Can adapt to any type of lifestyle Highly Intelligent.

At what age can German Shepherds live outside? This article is for those who are considering owning a German Shepherd. The question of whether or not to keep a German Shepherd outdoors is frequently asked because German Shepherds can grow to be quite large and are notorious for their year-round shedding. Can German Shepherds live outside? German Shepherds cannot live outside in an open environment. Keeping them outside exposes them to avoidable dangers and often leads to a variety of behavioral issues. German Shepherds kept outside are often the result of their owners not investing enough time and effort into training and socializing their dogs. This may be due to false views about owning a German Shepherd or a failure to adequately research the breed before purchasing one. Is it cruel to keep a dog outside? Keeping a German Shepherd outside for small intervals during the daytime can enhance their physical and mental growth, as many dogs enjoy being outside and interacting with their surroundings. However, it is important to provide the dog with proper protection from the elements and other potential dangers. Additionally, it is important to not make the garden a permanent living area for the dog, as they will be exposed to harsh weather conditions such as wind, rain, snow, and the sun. German Shepherd temperature tolerance? German Shepherds can tolerate temperature ranges between 60 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Although they can survive in harsh environments, they still require proper care and protection because of temperature. Hot weather can cause dehydration and heat stroke if they do not have proper shade and adequate water and food. If you notice your German Shepherd digging into the ground to cool off, this is a sign that they are too hot and require a cooler area. Similarly, in cold temperatures, German Shepherds can also become ill and should not be left outside for extended periods of time as it can lead to pneumonia and other health issues. Can German Shepherds live outside in winter? German Shepherds can live outside in the winter, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure their well-being. Their double-layer fur helps to keep them warm, but if they get wet in cold weather, they can become ill. The shelter should also be as large as possible and have warm blankets in the winter. While German Shepherds may enjoy being outdoors, they should not be left unmonitored for extended periods of time, especially during extreme weather conditions. Are wild animals harmful to German Shepherds? But this scenario can play out in reverse as well if you let your pet roam outside. Unfortunately, this can happen more often than you might think. For hunting purposes, all animals venture out. You may not want to put your dog at risk, but the roles can be reversed, leading to an unfortunate outcome for your pet. Some animals also see dogs and other domesticated pets as a means of survival. The animals that can pose a danger to dogs include rodents, skunks, raccoons, squirrels, snakes, coyotes, cougars, rats, and deer. Before four months, you should not attempt to have your German Shepherd sleep outside, as it can cause damage to their physiological and psychological well-being. In their first month of life, your puppy should be introduced and cared for, ensuring that they have fully adjusted to domestication before being left outside. You can begin attempting to have them sleep outside when your German Shepherd reaches the 4-month mark. Your German Shepherd is going to become a large-sized dog. Aside from their generous height in a standup position, German Shepherds can also weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Of course, there are always variations, and many will be larger than this. Considering their size and the fact that they were bred to be herding dogs, which meant they were used to sleeping outside to protect the animals they were guarding, German Shepherd owners might consider putting their dogs outside to sleep. After all, they can take up quite a lot of space, so you might think they are more comfortable sleeping outside at night. But you should not do it right away! In fact, German Shepherd puppies should not sleep outside until around four months of age. Keep in mind, though, that any dog — as adult or as puppies — should not be left alone by themselves the entire day and night. There are a few reasons why German Shepherd puppies should not sleep outside until they are at least four months old. In fact, it can be seriously detrimental to their health if they go outside before they are truly ready. Since his double coat will not be formed until he is around 4 or 5 months of age, your German Shepherd cannot regulate his body temperature properly. Your German Shepherd puppy is also more susceptible to diseases and parasites. In the first few months of life, your puppy will receive a series of shots to keep him healthy. Without these shots, he is more susceptible to all types of illnesses and parasites that can be detrimental to his health. Since shots are typically not completed until 16 weeks, putting him outside sooner is compromising his health. Lastly, your German Shepherd needs to be socialized. German Shepherds must be socialized as puppies, especially during the first few months of life. This will allow them to be friendlier, although they can still be successful in guarding. Without proper socialization, you risk your German Shepherd becoming aggressive. For this reason, some pet owners may wait until the 6-month mark for potentially better success. Basically, you should not expect your German Shepherd puppy to be A-Okay with the sudden change. He will likely not want to sleep outside, and you should never ignore him — especially on the first night. So how can you get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep outside — and happily, too? Well, here are four simple tips and tricks for helping your 4-month-old German Shepherd to sleep outside without a whine or whimper: Let them find a safe place during the daytime. Place his favorite items in the safe spot. This will create a comforting spot for him to rest. Let him nap in his outdoor safe spot. If he can get comfortable in his safe spot for a nap during the day, it will be a lot easier for him to relax in the same location for a lengthy slumber at nighttime. Stay positive and applaud your pet. Praise him with cheering and treats when he begins to spend some time in his safe spot for naps and, eventually, bedtime altogether. Be persistent. If you want to be successful, you must stay persistent. To ensure that your German Shepherd puppy is healthy and safe while sleeping outside, there are a few things you should always make sure he has. These items include: A doghouse. Now, this is not necessary, but plenty of dogs — especially puppies — enjoy them. It gives them a safe space to snuggle and feel safe, which is what any puppy of any breed can truly appreciate. Plus, you can put all their favorite items inside, making the doghouse more appealing. If you live in a cold climate, then a doghouse with sufficient warm bedding is essential. Water bowl. Your dog is going to get thirsty no matter what the temperature is at night. Make sure he has a water bowl that is filled to the brink every night. Try and put his favorite water bowl out there to make him more comfortable. All his favorites. I cannot stress this enough! You want your German Shepherd puppy to feel comfy and cozy, as this will make it an easier transition for you and your dog. While their environments are of utmost concern, here are some benefits if you let them sleep outside: They get a chance to explore the outside world at an early stage which is otherwise difficult. German Shepherd puppies feel independent and develop better decision-making skills with this approach. That can be detrimental to their health. Most importantly, puppies might lack interaction and relationships with you over time. Final Thoughts You should not try to have your German Shepherd sleep outside before four months of age as it poses a risk to his health, both physical and mental. Your puppy needs to be socialized and taken care of in his first months of life, ensuring that he has all his vaccinations before making his way outside. When the time comes, make sure he has a safe, cozy spot to lay his head, with access to all of his favorite toys. Related Posts You May Like:. Remember, at this stage, he is still only a baby! The last thing you want to do is expose him to negative experiences while he is so young. Starting young makes the whole training process even easier. Remember that the German Shepherd coat is double-layered, consisting of a dense, harsh outer coat with a softer undercoat. The undercoat is essential as it helps them stay warm in cold temperatures and protects them from the heat in hot weather. This is why German Shepherd dogs can adapt to functioning in different weather conditions. Always ensure your dog has access to clean water especially in warm weather and change it frequently throughout the day. To train your German Shepherd puppy to stay outside, you must teach him properly. That means getting him used to spending time away from you here and there, gradually increasing the amount of time he spends outside, and making the outdoors more fun and enjoyable for your pup. Spend some time with him outside after he relieves himself. This will prevent your German Shepherd from making a single connection between going outside and using the restroom. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety is a constructive post I wrote that tackles this issue alone. If you nip this in the bud from an early age, this will stop your dog from getting distressed and developing future behavior problems. Your German Shepherd puppy might be used to spending every second by your side right now, but you need to start getting him used to spending more time alone, especially if you expect him to last for longer than 30 minutes in the yard on his own. So, how do you do that? Spend one-on-one time with him outside. Go inside without him. Let him get used to being alone outside and wait a few minutes before letting him back inside the house no matter how much he begs! You want him to get used to spending more time outdoors, right? You need to increase the amount of time he spends outside alone slowly. My German Shepherd Willow at 12 weeks old. This is where you come in! You need to make the yard fun. Here are some tips for making your yard fun for your German Shepherd. Leave toys in the yard, such as tug toys. Build an agility course of some sort. These can be expensive, but you could easily make your own to save money. Give your dog somewhere to relax when he gets tired. Take a chew toy bone outside. I like KONG bones as they keep your pup entertained, and you can even stuff them with treats. I often get asked whether you should let your pup sleep outside. Build a positive experience outside by avoiding bad weather and temperatures. Gradually increase the time he spends outside until it becomes just a normal part of his everyday routine. Add some toys and activities to your yard to make the yard more fun! Related Posts You May Like:. Breed Info If you are thinking about getting a German Shepherd and have a lot of outdoor space, you may be wondering can German Shepherds live outside? It really depends on the weather conditions, the shelter available, and the type of dog owner you are. This article will dive into the living conditions needed for a German Shepherd to live outside safely and happily. Can German Shepherds Live Outside? German Shepherds can technically live outside with appropriate shelter and if the temperature is moderate. However, it is not recommended to keep a German Shepherd outside full time, as they are very attached to their human companions and need a lot of social interaction to prevent unwanted behaviors from developing. German Shepherds should live inside during the extremely cold winter months for safety. Since German Shepherds have a double coat, they do better in cooler temperatures than warmer temperatures. Heat is dangerous at certain levels for German Shepherds or any dog for that matter because dogs only have sweat glands in the ears and paws to help regulate their temperature. Accordingly, they are more easily susceptible to overheating. It is sometimes ok for German Shepherds to sleep outside but it depends on the conditions. Some German Shepherds prefer sleeping outside if it is too hot inside the house, other GSDs like to sleep outside to guard the house. However, if your dog likes sleeping outside you can take efforts to secure a safe place for them to sleep while being outside. Such as a garage or other shelter so that they are safe while you sleep. Whether any individual German Shepherd can survive in the wild will vary between each individual dog. German Shepherds that never had a human family will have a higher likelihood of surviving in the wild. This is because they will keep more of their natural instincts to learn to hunt and rely solely on themselves for food. German Shepherds that have been kept as household pets will normally have a harder time surviving in the wild because they have become accustomed to relying on humans for their daily needs. However, there are definitely exceptions. German Shepherds who have confident personalities with higher prey drives can survive in the wild more successfully. Whereas German Shepherds who are timid with a lower prey drive may have trouble finding food and avoiding predators. This could be a garage, a doghouse, a large outdoor kennel , or a homemade shelter. With large breed dogs like German Shepherds, you need to make sure that the shelter is large enough for them to be able to move around, sit and stand comfortably. Give Them Access to Fresh Water Whether a dog is inside or outside they need to have access to fresh water. This is especially important during the warmer months if your dog is outside because dogs use water as a way of cooling themselves down when hot. Temperature Control Inside the Shelter Keeping your German Shepherd at a comfortable temperature while outside is important. There are various ways this can be achieved: Insulation to keep it warm A roof to provide shade A mounted fan or air conditioner Bring Your Dog Inside in Bad Weather There are certain weather conditions that a dog should not be left outside in under any circumstances. Such as if there are severe storms like hurricanes, tornados, bad thunderstorms with lightning, and extreme snow like blizzards. If any of these conditions are in the forecast, bring your dog inside until the weather fully clears up. They need to be given time to roam outside of the shelter, to be around humans, to go for a walk, to potty, and to play. Leaving any dog in an outside shelter for long periods without checking on them is unacceptable! Make Sure to Give Your German Shepherd Plenty of Social Interaction As mentioned above, German Shepherds are a social dog breed that thrives off social interaction with their humans and even other dogs or animals. German Shepherds need both physical and mental stimulation on a daily basis or they are prone to get bored and develop destructive tendencies. All German Shepherds also need a good amount of training so they can understand what is expected of them both inside and outside. If you are going to keep a GSD outside, you need to make an extra effort to spend the appropriate amount of time with them to keep them happy and well-rounded. Doing so is showing your dog that being put outside is bad and they may start to develop a bad impression of being left outside. Some German Shepherds actually prefer being and sleeping outside to inside for a variety of reasons. If you have a GSD that lives outside, make sure they also get to spend time with you indoors and well. Under the right conditions, a German Shepherd that lives outside can be as happy and well-rounded as a GSD that lives indoors. Amy L: Can a German Shepherd live outside in the backyard? Well, I really want a German Shepherd and my father wants one too. My mother is afraid of dogs so it can't ever go inside. So, it has to stay outside in the backyard. I'm planning on getting an adult one. Also, I'm going to have to go to school for 8hrs. So it also has to stay by itself at home until I come back. My father also wants a dog that can protect the house from any unwanted intruders. If you were to give it a lot of shelter outside that would maybe be okay but animals require lots of love and attention. Don't get a dog just for it to be a less expensive alarm system, get one because you want a companion. Also, you should remember that having a big German Shepherd means that you will have to give it exercise as well. Yes, German Shepherds can sleep outside but dogs never allowed inside will develop serious behavioral problems! If you see your dog merely as an alarm system instead of a companion… well, I would recommend you to stick with a proper alarm system. It is highly likely your German Shepherd will snooze through the whole episode if a burglar breaks into your house. Reason being? Having a dog as intelligent and athletic as a German Shepherd is a lot of responsibility and a lot of training is required to turn him into a well-mannered canine citizen. Keep all that in mind and if you are ready to have a dog as part of your family, talk to your mom and get a puppy so she could get used to it, an adult German Shepherd is massive so it can be quite intimidating for someone who is not used to big dogs. My mom was quite nervous when she saw how big a fully grown German Shepherd is but she has no problem with my black German Shepherd pup! Answer by Kristin I have a german shepherd too at home. I always open my door to the backyard.The dog barks nonstop. I never thought something like this could have such an impact on my life but it has. I've been living here for 3 months and I never get good sleep or any peace when I'm awake. For your neighbors' sake just buy an alarm system. Also, it is really cruel to keep a dog like that outside and bored all day. Sure a Shepherd can live outside, and I guess your mother who already feats dogs can stay outside. A happy, healthy Shephard needs stimulation and exercise. They are working dogs. For you and your father to have a dog living in a cage in your backyard seems wrong. Maybe you could both volunteer at your local animal shelter until you can take care of a dog. Answer by Dave Yes, I agree with Susan, it is not fair to keep a dog separated from the family as they are social animals and also need a lot of attention. F also has a good suggestion about getting a puppy and raising it with the whole family so you can all bond together. The person asking the question does not seem to be very experienced with dogs, therefore, getting a Geman Shepherd as your first dog may be a little challenging, especially if it is introduced to you when it is an adult. This breed needs a lot of stimulation and exercise due to their size, energy levels, and intelligence, so I would say it is not OK to leave this kind of dog or any dog actually alone for eight hours every day. Dogs are supposed to be companions and should only be owned by people who can look after and care for them properly and give them the attention that they need. Final Thoughts Dangers of Leaving a German Shepherd Outside Leaving a German Shepherd outside for shorter periods of time during the day is not necessarily a bad thing. Being out in the yard gives a dog a chance to experience nature and all of its happenings. When we end our days, we typically lock up our homes and this gives us a feeling of security. But sometimes we may fail to consider that the safety measures that we take for ourselves and our family also need to be afforded to our dogs. A dog left outside at all times is exposed to not only the elements but to a number of other dangers as well — both natural and unnatural. As far as weather goes — wind, rain, snow, and even the sun call all be potentially harmful or worse for your dog he is left outside in these conditions at all times. Hot Weather While German Shepherds are extremely adaptable to most any climate, they still need to be afforded certain levels of protection from the elements. Here is an informative article about German Shepherds and temperature tolerance. One of the most important things to be aware of if you have a GSD outside in the hot weather, especially if the dog does not have a standard Stock Coat , is that they can quickly overheat. This is true even if they are provided with adequate shade, food, and water. Overheating can lead to heatstroke or dehydration, both of which can be fatal. If you do happen to have your GSD outside on a hot day for longer than you would prefer, carefully observe his behavior. GSDs will sometimes begin digging in the ground to create a cool spot for themselves to lay in. Cold Weather German Shepherds are actually very good cold weather dogs, spending time in cold weather and living outside in it are two entirely different things. As long as a GSD can stay dry and out of the wind, it can stay outside in the cold for longer periods of time. But a German Shepherd that is forced to live outside at all times will not be able to do this. Keep in mind that during times of extremely hot or cold weather, even if your GSD really enjoys being outside, he needs to have the opportunity to come back in from time to time to avoid getting too cold. If it is an absolute must that a GSD be outside for an extended period of hot or cold weather, shelter is essential. The size of the shelter should be just large enough for the dog to lie down comfortably, and in the wintertime keep it stocked with lots of warm blankets. If you do find yourself in a situation that your dog must be outside for some time, just make sure that you do not leave your dog alone all night unattended. Should your dog fall ill due to either the heat or the cold, at least you will be in a position to catch it early and prevent even more undue hardship for your dog. This is no different than a person enjoying the outdoors on a hot or cold day. Everything is fine in moderation, but excess can lead to trouble. But if you keep your dog outside, this picture can play itself out in reverse. And unfortunately, it happens more than you may think. There are all sorts of animals that go out on the prowl at night. It may not be their intention to do any harm to your dog, but it is highly likely that they may cross paths and this can lead to an unpleasant outcome for your dog. There are also a number of animals that will directly seek out dogs and other domestic animals as a food source. Groundhogs These are large rodents about the size of a very large cat. While they will not deliberately attack your dog for no reason, if they sense a threat, they will. They are fierce and can do a lot of damage with their sharp claws and large teeth. You will often find groundhogs around newer housing developments, as the freshly dug earth is a perfect habitat for them. They are often a curiosity for larger dogs and will attack if a dog gets too close. Skunks are nocturnal and they often wander through residential yards. Though they rarely catch them, they sometimes do. Chances are that a GSD will get the better of a squirrel, but not before the squirrel defends itself with its sharp teeth and claws. Not only that, squirrels often carry diseases such as plague and Lyme disease. Raccoons Like skunks, raccoons are also nocturnal. They hunt and scavenge, and they love the taste of dog food. They know that if there are people present, then there is probably food present as well. This knowledge, along with their curious and bold nature often brings them into contact with dogs being kept outside. Raccoons are ferocious, they have strong claws and sharp teeth, and will not hesitate to defend themselves against a curious or aggressive dog. They also carry rabies so they can present a real danger on a few levels to a dog. The reality is that snakes are everywhere. If you have a backyard, you very likely have snakes burrowing in it. While most snakes are not poisonous, some are very poisonous. And some of these poisonous snakes, like pit vipers and moccasins, do sometimes come into unintentional contact with a dog that is just sniffing around through the grass. Once a snake feels cornered, it will strike with often no warning, and it only takes one bite from some snakes to be fatal for a dog. Coyotes Watch out for these, as they are becoming more and more common in suburban neighborhoods. They are responsible for a huge amount of missing cats and dogs each year. Coyotes are bold, they do not hesitate to attack, and they can easily gravely injure or even kill a large dog like a German Shepherd. If your dog is kept outside at night in a fenced-in yard or tied to something or the other, it will have no place to retreat. Another reason to keep your dog indoors. Cougars Mountain Lions Like coyotes, cougars are also finding their way into neighborhoods. Loss of habitat and drought drives their natural prey to neighborhoods to forage, and the cougars follow. A cougar may at first stumble upon a domestic dog or cat by accident, but they soon find that they make for an easy meal. They are here to stay, and they love to eat what you throw away, and they also love dog food. Deer This picture was taken from my kitchen window — and I live in a very residential neighborhood. In recent years, deer have become more prevalent in residential areas. While they may seem majestic and harmless, deer can pose a real danger to domestic animals, especially dogs. Males have dagger-like antlers that and the hoofs on all deer can be deadly when used to attack a dog. From about late March to early June, does female deer usually have fawns baby deer closeby. And like most animal mothers, a doe with a fawn will view anything that approaches as a threat and will not hesitate to be the aggressor if she senses danger to her baby. Bucks are so focused on breeding during this time that they even forget to eat, and spend a lot of time fighting with other bucks for the right to mate with nearby females. Deer are encroaching more and more into residential neighborhoods, and too often come into contact with domestic dogs. And because bucks view anything that gets in their way of breeding as a challenge, included dogs, there are unfortunately a fair number of dogs that are killed every year by bucks in rut. German Shepherd Boredom and Destructive Behavior German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and one that is left outside will without question become very bored in a relatively short amount of time. They need a lot of mental stimulation to ensure their emotional well-being and being left outside severely deprives them of this. A GSD that is bored will turn to most anything to occupy itself, and the most easily available form of expression for boredom is destructive behavior. What this means for the owner of a dog that is left outside is that they can quite possibly end up with a yard that is literally in shambles. A bored GSD will dig holes all over the place. It will also find whatever it can to chew on. Most often these items can be furniture, shrubs, hoses, sprinklers, storage containers — basically, anything that it can chew, it will chew. So keep this in mind if your dog is spending a disproportionate amount of time outside, and perhaps see what you can do to give your dog some more time inside the house. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety, Barking and Being a Rude Neighbor You may not notice it so much when your dog is barking because you are used to it, but just ask any one of your neighbors and they will no doubt tell you that they certainly notice. Leaving a German Shepherd outside for long periods of time often results in excessive barking from the dog. This is because German Shepherds, more so than other breeds, are prone to separation anxiety. Because GSDs love to be in the physical presence of their owners, being left outside will often trigger this anxiety, which often results in persistent barking. While there can be multiple causes for separation anxiety, if a dog is left outside and is barking only while it is being left alone, you can be pretty sure that this is the cause of it. The bark of a German Shepherd travels far, and can likely be heard further way than you may think. German Shepherd Lack of Socialization A German Shepherd needs to be well socialized in order to have healthy interactions and relationships in its life. This means that a GSD needs to be in contact with other people, animals, and new situations as much as possible, especially when it is younger. If a GSD is kept outside and away from people for most of its time, it will not have this opportunity. This will very likely have a negative effect on the dog. A GSD that is kept outside and away from meeting house guests and just interacting with you and your family in general on a daily basis will very likely begin to exhibit behavioral issues, including aggression. This can be a hazard to mail delivery persons, meter readers, landscapers, or basically anyone that may require access to your property from time to time. Too often dogs are kept outside as a result of their poor behavior due to a lack of socialization. But keeping a dog outside is not a solution to this problem, it instead only compounds it. They need to be with their pack as much as possible. And guess who their pack is? This means that they have the need to be physically close to you, and not kept outside and separated from you. Without a strong and consistent leader, a German Shepherd will take that role upon himself — a role that he is not mean to play. If a GSD is forced into a leadership role on his own, then he will literally take over and you can be sure that you will have a problem on your hands that can only be addressed with the assistance of a professional dog trainer. German Shepherds have and instinctual need to be close to their pack to protect it, and one is cast away to live outside, he will have a skewed perception of what is his and what is not. For example, an indoor GSD will be fiercely protective of your home because he views that as his job. But a German Shepherd that is kept outside in a yard will have a difficult time defining what is his to protect. And this will ultimately lead to a lonely, sad, and confused dog. Treat getting a GSD as if you were adding a new member to your family because you are in essence doing just that. German Shepherds are not easy dogs to take care of, and they will only flourish and be the loyal and hardworking dogs that they are known to be if you do your part and provide them with the shelter, safety, and companionship that they need. As long as you take German Shepherd dog ownership seriously, you will be rewarded with a faithful and loving companion for years to come. However, German Shepherds are very attached to their owners. They were bred to develop a devotion to their family that is hard to match. They are not designed to be outside dogs and should be around their family members as much as possible. Indoors is a much more appropriate place for German Shepherds to sleep as well as most dogs — to be fair. You should plan on your dog being an innate and vital part of your life before adopting a German Shepherd. These dogs need a lot of attention and companionship. If you want your dog to spend most of its time sleeping outside, you may want to select a different breed. We highly recommend crate training your German Shepherd at a young age. Just like any other dog, German Shepherd puppies can be quite destructive. You should always crate train your puppy. Remember, your puppy should love their crate. They should also spend the night in it — since you will be unable to supervise them while asleep. If your German Shepherd is crate trained correctly, they will likely choose to sleep in their crate even after you stop closing the door. Their crate should be their safe space. Even with proper crate training, some dogs may pick another spot around the house to sleep in—for instance, many sleep near the front door or under windows. If your dog is allowed on the furniture, they may choose the furniture as well. It is not recommended for a German Shepherd puppy to sleep outside. Puppies are not good at regulating their body temperature. The temperature changes and drafts outside can be potentially dangerous for German Shepherds younger than six months of age. While some puppies might be fine, those battling illnesses may become sick or often — which can affect their development. Nighttime is vital for crate training. Every dog should be crate appropriately trained — especially very large dogs like German Shepherds. This can be difficult to do if your canine is sleeping outside. It is best to crate train them at a young age, which would include them sleeping inside. Puppies are more susceptible to diseases. Before they are completely vaccinated, puppies are more prone to getting sick. Outside is often full of germs and parasites. While your dog does need to go outside, spending hours overnight might be a bit much. It is recommended that you keep your pet indoors to sleep until they are at least a year old and have been fully vaccinated. German Shepherd puppies need bonding time. German Shepherds need plenty of companionship. While growing up , they should be spending much of their time with their family members. Can a German Shepherd Live Outside? There are very few occasions where dogs should live outside full-time. There are a few working breeds that do good spending much time outside with their flock. For instance, the Russian Bear Dog was bred to bond closely with their flock. If these canines are used in a working manner, then it would be cruel to separate them from their flock regularly. However, German Shepherds are not one of these breeds. They bond very closely with their family and are very people-oriented. Their companionship need means that they need hours each day with their family. Otherwise, they may become destructive and even aggressive. They were bred to defend people first and foremost. Instead, they perform this job best when they are allowed plenty of bonding time with their family and kept inside. They may want a German Shepherd as an expensive alarm system or because they look fantastic. However, German Shepherds are a lot of work. They require extensive socialization and training to be good canine citizens. As brilliant dogs, they need plenty of mental stimulation. Often, this means daily training exercises, puzzle toys, and long walks. They are also highly active, require much exercise. If your dog was never trained properly, now is the time to start. If your dog is still destructive, it is likely because they are not getting enough mental stimulation. This can be hard to judge for many dogs. Usually, bored dogs will try to make their own fun, resulting in destructive behavior for seemingly no reason. Your German Shepherd may break into your cabinets or chew up your couch. Adding training and puzzle toys can help. Some dog owners opt to have their German Shepherds sleep outside because they shed heavily. This not fair to the dog. Shedding should always be managed by appropriate grooming and not simply by banning the pup from sleeping inside! Do German Shepherds Need to be Inside? If you want your German Shepherd to develop a suitable temperament, they should be allowed inside at least half of the time. These dogs are active, so they may naturally want to spend a lot of time outdoors — especially when the weather is nice. However, they should never be forced to spend the majority of their time outdoors. There are a few reasons for this: They need to bond with their family. German Shepherds rely a lot on their bond with their family members. They are people-oriented dogs that were bred for their devotion. They can become bored. German Shepherds are brilliant dogs. Their brains are always on. To develop properly, they need a lot of mental stimulation. This lack can lead to destructive behaviors. They may also bark needlessly. In extreme cases, these German Shepherds can become aggressive. They may be a bit too excited to see people, leading to over-exuberant behaviors and aggression. These dogs were designed to get much of their mental stimulation from their humans. When interacting naturally with people, they will often get much of their needs met — especially if training and new situations are part of that interaction. German Shepherds must learn to behave in the home. While these dogs are often well-behaved in the home, they have to learn how to behave well. If the dog is never allowed inside, they will likely not learn how to behave appropriately. If you want your dog to behave indoors, you have to let them indoors at least half of the time. The best time to start working on house manners is when your pup is still small — that way, he will not ingrain unwanted behaviors. If you wait until your Shepherd is grown up to teach him house manners, it will be a much harder task. Many people choose to adopt a German Shepherd to protect their home. However, if your dog is left outside, he cannot protect his home. Furthermore, dogs need the training to protect their home and people. The key is for them to be protective against the right kind of people — not everyone. German Shepherds need lots of socialization. German Shepherds need plenty of socialization. They tend to be a bit cautious of people due to their temperament. This is especially true for German Shepherds that are mixed with another guard dog breed, such as Shiloh Shepherds or King Shepherds. It can be difficult for them to get enough socialization if they spend all their time outside. They need to be around their family to learn how to interact with them. Secondly, your dog needs to be socialized with other people. Typically, this will take place indoors. This may backfire and make them more fearful of new people — since they associate strangers with scary situations. You may allow your German Shepherd to sleep outside if they are an adult and the weather is nice. However, the best spot for them is in a crate or inside. Like all breeds of shepherds , these dogs are very attached to their people. They also need plenty of socialization, so they should be around people as much as you can justify. While your canine is awake, they should be inside for much of the time — especially if their people are home. This breed needs to be with its people. As puppies, this is vital for socialization. They need to get comfortable inside a home. As adults, the mental stimulation of socializing with their people is essential to keep them happy. Otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. If you own a German Shepherd that has been crossed with more independent breeds, such as the King Shepherd crossed with Malamute and Great Pyrenees , your dog will probably do better with more outside time. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Coat Trim Cost of Veterinary Expenses You can expect to pay for the vet each year so that your dog can remain up to date with their shots. An annual visit can also make sure your dog is healthy, but you may want to take your dog in more often if they get sick or have other problems. You can get pet insurance to help cover the cost of these vet expenses. A good breeder will provide you with not only a healthy, well-socialized puppy but also support and guidance as you navigate life with your new furry friend. But with so many breeders out there, how do you know who to choose? Look for a breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC or other reputable organizations and who has experience breeding golden retrievers. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed and will provide you with references from past clients. A good breeder will provide support and guidance as you adjust to life with your new pet. They should be available to answer questions, offer training advice, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. Look for a Breeder with Experience Experience matters when it comes to breeding golden retrievers. A breeder with years of experience will have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and will be able to provide you with valuable insights and advice. They will know how to breed for good temperament, health, and other important traits that make golden retrievers such beloved family pets. This includes information about any genetic diseases or health issues that may be present in the bloodline. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes health and genetics, you can help ensure that your new puppy is healthy and happy. Some breeders may insist that you participate in these events if you want to purchase a puppy from them, but this is not a requirement. Choose a breeder who respects your lifestyle and preferences and who is primarily concerned with finding a good home for their puppies. The right Golden Retriever breeder depends on you as a person, but any good breeder should be able to answer any questions. You may come across the perfect puppy online, but do not commit to any dog until you can visit in person. The dog may be totally different than in their photo. In some cases, you may find that the dog does not exist. Some scammers can take photos of other dogs and collect payment for the dog. But the scammer will disappear before the buyer realizes the dog is not theirs. To avoid these puppy sales scams, always visit the dog in person before you sign a contract or make a payment. Make sure the dog looks like the pictures and that they have the temperament that you want. If you are working with a breeder, be sure to check their credentials and ask for references. You can speak to other dog owners who have gone through the breeder. Finally, do not rush into getting a dog. Conclusion While Golden Retrievers can be moderately expensive to keep over the ten to twelve years that they generally live, there are many ways that people can reduce the cost of keeping them. One of the best ways to save money while raising a Golden Retriever is to get quality pet insurance. As long as their owners are prepared to offer them financial security in the form of good food, a few well-loved toys, and some regular veterinary care, Goldens repay the devotion a hundredfold in terms of loyalty and affection for their families. Check out our list of Golden Retriever Rescue Organizations , they are listed by state. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. Puppies cost more than adult or senior Goldens. This holds true for all dog breeds, because there is more demand for puppies than older dogs. Age affects the adoption fee, but it does not reflect the quality of the dog in most cases. This can be thousands of dollars less than a puppy, but this does not discount the love and affection an adult can offer. Surprisingly, this dog comes in more than just gold color varieties. There are also red, cream, brown, and yellow color varieties. There will, very rarely, even be a Golden Retriever that has black-tipped ears or has a black spot on its body. These puppies have cream-colored coats and are very rare. Goldens that have black markings on their coat are often cheaper. A puppy with healthy warranties and pedigree certification will be twice as much as a puppy without them. One of the top health certifications is hip dysplasia screening. Choosing A Breeder Not all breeders put a lot of time, effort, and money into their Golden Retriever puppies. Breeder associated expenses include breeding fees if the breeder does not own both a breeding male and female , breeding license, veterinary care for mom and pups, health tests and certifications, warranty, registration, insurance, whelping and food. Golden Retrievers typically have eight puppies in each litter. Puppies that are bought from pet stores can come from large-scale commercial dog breeding operations i. Commercial dog breeding facilities should be avoided. A chronic lack of space, insufficient nutrition, poor hygiene standards, and routine overbreeding of the dogs are par for the course in puppy mills. This is inhumane and causes a number of serious health issues for the puppies: matted fur; eye, ear, and throat infections, dental problems and severe genetic deformities. So, how do you make sure you adopt a dog from a trustworthy and reputable breeder? One of the first steps you can do is to check the status of a breeder. All puppies sold via this marketplace are purebred, pedigree and health certified. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club has a list of approved breeders. All puppies sold via this marketplace are insured, pedigree and health certified. There are a handful of additional factors that also affect a Golden Retriever price. Breeder location is one of them. Certain cities and states enforce breeding regulations and charges. Breeding licenses normally apply to professional breeders who breed more than 20 puppies each year. Home-based breeders can get exemptions.

Being responsible breeders of these fabulous dogs, we strive to keep the breed healthy with select breeding. Much research and planning goes into play before each litter of puppies. Our puppies are raised with our family and get socialized on a daily basis. We offer limited registration and all our puppies come with a puppy pack. Happy, Healthy Bloodline When choosing a good dog, you want to find breeders who breed for good health and temperament and have great lines, not breeders breeding mainly for money and looks, or those making false claims just to attract buyers. Their temperament, gentle nature and intelligent personality makes them the perfect companion for families with small kids or those that just need a good friend to snuggle with. A Furever Friend Since every puppy has its own character, we like to see how each puppy mingles with its new owners when choosing their forever friend. We make it our priority that the puppy you choose will be the best fit for your family. After years of selective breeding, these lighter specimens were given the name "English light golden retrievers. The color of the coat has nothing to do with a dog's health. But ancestry could possibly have an effect on health. There is at least a little evidence that, on average, English bloodlines are healthier. Research also found that goldens from English bloodlines had an average lifespan of 12 - 14 years whereas American goldens lived for an average of 10 - 12 years. Putting statistics to the side, it's our priority to ensure our puppies will live a happy and healthy life. Do English Retrievers Shed Less? Because English retrievers have less hair, you will notice less hair around the house, but this does not mean that they shed less compared to their American counterparts. All retrievers shed at the same rate and usually shed the most during spring and fall. Our Program Personality We understand that each English Cream Golden Retriever puppy has their own unique personality and temperament traits, including assertiveness, motivation, energy level, tenderheartedness, intensity, and focus. Our observation of their socialization and interaction with humans and other animals such as cats, provides important indicators for your puppy's needs and lifestyle. Family Looking for a lifelong companion for your children? Our English Cream Golden Retriever puppies are loving, happy, and easygoing playmates, who not only create great memories but also promote emotional and physical development. From building self-esteem to developing empathy and responsibility, our companion puppies have many positive impacts on children. Socialization At Golden Beaches, we believe in providing our puppies with the essential socialization necessary to become lifelong companions. Our multi-pet household allows our puppies to have early exposure to cats, which promotes respect and understanding for other animals and children. This socialization also benefits cats by overcoming fears and promoting positive behavior. Many of our clients with multi-pet households have found this approach beneficial, and some have even added a kitten to their family after starting out with one of our puppies. Nutrition At Golden Beaches, we prioritize the health and well-being of our Golden Retrievers by providing them with premium, holistically formulated dog food from puppyhood to adulthood. Our food has never been recalled and is packed with nutrients and protein, ensuring that our dogs have shiny coats, bright eyes, and long-term benefits. We believe that good nutrition is key to keeping our dogs healthy and happy, so we take the time to ensure that they receive the best possible care, socialization, and early training. Adventure Experience the great outdoors with your athletic, water-loving Golden Retriever. Our playful companions are the perfect adventure buddies for hiking, swimming, and exploring nature. With our Goldens, you'll make unforgettable memories while staying active and healthy. Join us on our journey and let us help you embrace the beauty of nature with your beloved furry friend. Confidence At Golden Beaches, we prioritize the early development of our puppies by exposing them to different sights, smells, and sounds. We even play various genres of music and sounds to help them adapt to new environments. Our approach includes using evaluation methods like the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test, as well as introducing them to different activities and tests. Through these efforts, we gain a better understanding of your pup's unique level of confidence, ensuring they will be comfortable in any situation. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Seattle Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Seattle? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Seattle? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have answers. It all depends on the unique attributes of each particular puppy. This can include things like coloring, sex, temperament, and breeder experience. A Seattle Golden Retriever is more likely to be priced on attributes aside from location. We take your price range into account as one of the many inputs when searching for your perfect companion. Are there Golden Retriever puppies for sale Washington near me? We have Golden Retriever puppies Seattle and surrounding areas within our expansive network of breeders and companies. We pride ourselves on having a well curated network of breeders who are eager and waiting to help you find your match. All the time! Our experienced and careful partners are able to transport puppies within 48 of the U. Golden Retriever puppies Washington area and beyond are just waiting to meet you! If you match with a breeder or business within driving distance, you can meet or pick up your new pup. If you want your Golden Retriever for sale Seattle or Golden Retriever for sale Washington specifically, you can call that out in the MatchMaker process. Do you have purebred Golden Retriever puppies for sale Seattle? Our breeder and company partners have the highest degree of experience and always strive to provide purebred puppies who have impeccable pedigree and are well cared for. If you want a Golden Retriever Washington State that you know is the real deal, you can trust that Upwork Puppies has you covered. Can I trust you?

Goldendoodles sport the signature scruffy Doodle-look with hypoallergenic coats. And their high intelligence levels can leave us completely baffled. So, where can you find reputable Goldendoodle breeders in Virginia and what are the key things to look for? Some offer Standard Goldendoodles while others specialize in smaller, Mini Goldendoodle pups. Unfortunately, Doodle scammers and puppy mills also want their piece of the pie while resorting to unethical breeding practices and borderline torturing the animals. So, how can you avoid supporting a puppy mill and what should you look for in a responsible Goldendoodle breeder in Virginia? Why is that important? Because extensive health testing helps breeders screen the parent dogs for any hereditary diseases, which can be carried onto the puppies. Not only will it cost you a ton of money in the long run, unhealthy puppies with genetic conditions often struggle with pain and severe discomfort throughout their lives. In addition to rigorous health testing, you want to double-check if a breeder provides a health warranty for their puppies. Most commonly, breeders offer a two-year health guarantee for genetic conditions. Keep in mind that even scammers and puppy mills often claim to hold certifications with the organizations we mentioned above. Please be aware of this and always check back with the organizations, as their member breeders are often publicly posted on their websites. Many Goldendoodle breeders in Virginia have customer testimonials posted on their website, but we urge you to do some more digging on online communities like Reddit, Yelp, Facebook , or here at Doodle Doods. Ask around amongst your friends, family members, or neighbors who have adopted a puppy from a certain breeder. They specialize in breeding Multigenerational Goldendoodles of all sizes for loving forever homes. All of their lines originate from AKC registered purebreds, and each of their breeding dogs has been carefully chosen for their excellent health, genetics, and wonderful temperament. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They raise their puppies with the Puppy Culture training and socialization program that sets their pups up for success. In addition to that, they introduce their pups to crate training, regular car rides, basic commands, regular body handling with the help of the ENS method , amongst many other things. Waitlist: Yes. Why are we an exclusive Goldendoodle breeder? The Goldendoodle is our favorite dog breed, which is why we choose to breed them in our home. In fact, we own Goldendoodles ourselves. They make ideal family dogs since they have likeable personalities and a nonaggressive temperament. They are especially great around children. As reputable breeders, we make it our mission to provide forever homes for our healthy and happy puppies. What are F-1B Goldendoodles? If you are looking for Goldendoodle puppies in Virginia, Doodles of NC offers well-behaved and well-socialized canines. They are known for their gentle, friendly, and playful dispositions. These dogs make the perfect pet for those with allergies because their coats are hypoallergenic and shed lightly. Our Goldendoodles come with a lifetime health guarantee and support. They receive health exams by a licensed veterinarian and are screened for various abnormalities. Doodles of NC offers mini and medium Goldendoodle puppies for sale. Our mini Goldendoodles are less than 30 pounds and our medium Goldendoodles are 30 to 50 pounds. No matter the size you choose, your puppy is sure to make a great fit for your family. Learn about our pricing deposits and how we raise our puppies. Our Dogs. They also have a hypoallergenic coat, so dog lovers who suffer from allergic reactions to dog hair would have nothing to worry about with the Goldendoodle. Their compassionate hearts and loyal spirits also make them the perfect dog breed for a family with kids. If you reside in Virginia and have long wanted a Goldendoodle as a family companion, then you are in luck as Virginia is home to numerous breeders of the Goldendoodle breed. To help make your work easier, we have provided a comprehensive list of some top-quality Goldendoodle breeders that reside in Virginia. These breeders were selected based on their breeding pattern and program. With that being said, do ensure you read on till the end, to see our top pick. They breed high-quality Goldendoodles and have been active in the canine world for over 15 years. Their Goldendoodles are a healthy mix of playful yet gentle, intelligent, and eager to please. They make the perfect family pets, but their high trainability level also makes them suitable for show and therapy dogs. They are low to no-shedding dogs from F1 and F1b generations. They have a strict breeding program with numerous AKC-registered Golden Retriever and Poodle sires and dams in their line. These sires and dams were selected based on their health, temperament, and intelligence level. They were genetically tested through Embark for conditions that could be transferred to the litter. Their eyes, elbows, hearts, and hips are also certified by licensed professionals. All Goldendoodles from Virginia Beach Goldendoodles are raised in the family home where they are started on socialization protocols from day one. This includes Early Neurological Stimulation, Early Scent Introduction, puppy culture, and a host of other socialization protocols. They are exercised daily and taken on rides outside the facility to help familiarize them with other situations and environments. Each Goldendoodle puppy from Virginia Beach Goldendoodles comes with a 1-year health guarantee. They are micro chipped, fully health checked by a licensed vet and each has their deworming and vaccination records updated. Old Mill Doodles ticks all the right boxes here. They have been breeding Goldendoodles for over ten years. The smiling face of a brown and black Godlendoodle with a short coat aka a recent haircut Their previous clients keep coming back for their commendable services and leave many positive reviews. Over the years, Old Mill Doodles has focused on offering miniature, standard, and medium Goldendoodles for its clients. The breeder follows the strict breeding standards from GANA. Old Mill Doodles also takes pride in running a successful breeding program featuring the best breeding dog parents. The sirs and dams undergo various health tests before using them in the breeding program. Doing this helps to guarantee that they create high-quality Goldendoodles. All dogs undergo testing to establish whether their elbows, eyes, hearts, and hips function well. Pups enjoy the huge space they have to play around and socialize with people of different ages. The quality of life of puppies at Old Mill Doodles is very good since they grow in a friendly environment. Goldendoodle at Old Mill Doodles comes with a 2-year health guarantee. The puppies are vet-certified to ensure you go home with your new healthy furry friend. Contact Details:. They go through health evaluations to determine if they have hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia, cardiovascular health problems, or eye diseases. The breeder has a spacious home where they raise the puppies until they can be adopted around eight weeks of age. They receive mild training for housebreaking and general obedience. While many breeders promise lifetime support and a home for the dog if something happens, Laurel Ridge has proven this promise. Then, they found the right home for that pup and the right puppies for those owners. But they do their best to match the right dog and owner the first time around. Their parent dogs are healthy and happy, and they are a trustworthy family breeder. They regularly go through a veterinary health check and are on a strict deworming program. They ensure all dogs are in excellent health. How to Pick Breeders? The most critical factor in choosing a breeder is to make sure they treat their dogs with care and ethics. These breeders are puppy mills and just care about profit. My Experience I found my gorgeous new puppy through a Facebook post, and many genuine breeders use social media as an effective advertising medium. So, I decided to investigate further. I arranged to go and view the puppies and was impressed with the setup. The pups were roaming around a large pen with their mother. The pen was clean, and there were plenty of toys for the babies to play with. The breeder asked me to send regular updates on how my new furry friend was doing and emphasized that I could contact him at any time for advice and to voice any concerns I had. All in all, my experience was great and left me feeling confident that I had made the right decision. Puppy Cost The breeders on this list fall into reasonable price ranges. Adoption Length If they offer same-day adoption that takes less than an hour, you may want to reconsider. A super-fast adoption process implies a lack of vetting on their part. New Owner Support The best breeders offer lifetime support, start supplies and food, and training tips or references. Conclusion Choosing a breeder is an essential step in finding the right dog, and you should always do thorough research on each breeder you consider. Factor in the costs, location, health guarantees, adoption contracts, and more discussed in the article before committing to a breeder. Did you find this list helpful and informative? Tell us what you think and drop us a comment so we can improve our information and help all Goldendoodle seekers find the perfect breeder with the best dogs. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment.

Are you worried about why your German Shepherd is so small? Especially considering this breed is known to grow large and powerful. You might even wonder how you can help your German Shepherd puppy get bigger and grow faster. Why is my German Shepherd so small? The top reasons a German Shepherd is so small are its genetic history, underlying medical illness, intestinal worms, incorrect diet for their growth, and inadequate caloric consumption for their activity levels. Closely observing your GSD will give you many clues to their health and help you understand why they are so small. Inherited Smallness Your puppy could have inherited smallness through their genes. Therefore, your dog may naturally be a smaller GSD. Larger breeds, like the German Shepherd, also tend to mature at slower rates than smaller breeds. It can take up to 18 months to 2 years for your GSD puppy to grow into its adult body. Perhaps your German Shepherd is smaller because of an underlying medical problem. There are many diseases that could impact growth and affect nutrient absorption. One of the largest studies on dog gene mutations plos. These mutations could affect the growth and size of your puppy. For example, pituitary dwarfism is an autosomal disorder that may be inherited in some German Shepherds. Pituitary dwarfism presents between weeks of age and needs a specific test from your vet. Keep in mind that this disorder is very rare. Intestinal Parasites Could your German Shepherd puppy be small because of these issues? These worms are contracted from the environment they live in or from their mother. If left untreated your puppy could have an extremely heavy worm infestation, and the worms can steal enough calories from your puppy to slow down his growth and make him appear smaller than he should. And, once your German Shepherd puppy is free of worms its body can heal and regain normal growth and development. Follow the deworming schedule set forth by your veterinarian to prevent worms. Poor Nutrition for a Large Breed Dog Large breed dogs, like your German Shepherd, need food made especially for their size and growth rate. Do not feed them small breed formula food! German Shepherd Dogs can vary considerably at different stages of their life in their nutritional requirements for energy, fat and carbohydrate. Even an adult GSD still needs the proper nutrition, especially for this athletic breed. Keep in mind that your puppy should eat food made especially for large breed dogs and without corn, wheat, or soy so that the food is easier to digest and sensitive on their stomachs. Try this Nutro Natural Choice large breed formula if you want to ensure proper growth and the right nutrition. You can feed this puppy food up to 18 months old and it offers the levels of protein, carbohydrates, and fats recommended for your GSD. German Shepherd Dogs do well on dog food that uses muscle meat as the first ingredient, such as chicken or beef, and chicken is the first muscle meat in this dog food formula. Feed the high-quality diet in smaller amounts throughout the day to provide a steady proportion of calories and to monitor their intake more easily. Too Few Calories Is your dog active? You must make sure they have the right calories for their energy needs. Your GSD puppy will go through growth spurts during the first year and there will be days when he needs to eat more due to his high puppy energy and antics of the day. But consider the activities your dog has done throughout the day and add a bit more food if he has participated in activities that took more energy, such as: been on an extra-long walk ran more than a couple of miles gone hiking or hill walking or had a full day of swimming Enjoying low-impact exercise with your GSD puppy will not stunt his growth, but if not fed enough calories to support his needs he might appear underweight. And remember that strenuous exercise could damage the growth plates of the bones and predispose your puppy to joint issues later in life. A smaller German Shepherd still needs exercise to keep them happy and their body working normally. Enjoy your daily walks even with a small GSD as long as they are healthy. Wait until your vet gives the all-clear around 18 months of age to enjoy high-impact activities like running, jogging, and jumping with your puppy. Use these safe German Shepherd Puppy Exercise Ideas instead to keep their bones and joints healthy into adulthood. There are so many overweight dogs that a fit, lean , athletic German Shepherd might look underweight to you. Instead of relying on charts and scales, use your hands to determine how small your German Shepherd really is. You should be able to feel the ribs with only a thin covering of skin. And your hands should curve in slightly when near the waist. In a short-coated German Shepherd, you should not be able to see the ribs and the bones should not stick out prominently. Many German Shepherds are lean and look smaller because they are very active, not because they need more food or are underweight. They are thin, with prominent bones, especially the hips and ribs. Malnourished dogs will often suffer from dehydration, lethargy, and skin disease. In most cases, malnourishment in dogs is a result of a lack of food or its poor quality that can't meet the canine's nutritional requirements. According to vets, A malnourished dog will show several identifiable signs when he is suffering from nutrient deficiency. Serious weight loss is the most identifiable symptom that occurs in malnourished dogs. Dogs that are unable to get enough vitamins and minerals will often experience changes in his coat, coloring, or texture. Sometimes, the reason is a medical condition that prevents the dog from eating. When malnourishment occurs, it is necessary to take the dog to the vet to recommend a specific diet and help in recovery. How to Help a Malnourished Dog Recover In most cases, malnourishment occurs as a result of a health issue. Once that primary problem has been solved, the dog will generally regain their original weight back. It is crucial to start feeding an underweight dog small amounts of food a few times daily. Providing too much food too fast to an emaciated dog may cause the development of refeeding syndrome, which is just as serious a condition. Digestive and neurological problems can also occur if feeding too much at once. Several crucial steps in this process, outlined below, will help the dog recover safely. Regular Vet Visits Never attempt to determine the right meal for a malnourished dog without consultation with the veterinarian. After a thorough examination, the vet will give appropriate advice and a step-by-step plan on how to feed an underweight dog and restore them to full condition. Also, the vet can help you monitor the progress, the dog's current weight, and your pet's overall health during these regular checkups, advising on any dietary or exercise adjustments if needed. It is necessary to check the dog's body temperature , the state of the dog's immune system, and any possible misbehavior issues during this process. Appropriate and Comfortable Environment A malnourished dog generally needs more warmth since their underfed body will have difficulty maintaining body temperature within physiological limits. Without the necessary amount of body fat, the dog will shiver when the outside temperature is slightly lower, leading to additional burning of calories. Plus, a malnourished dog needs to feel safe and calm as they will be more sensitive to the environment, so it is necessary to provide a stress-free, cozy, and comfortable place for your pet to rest, play, sleep, and otherwise spend their time. Gradually Increased Frequency of Meals Providing an extra meal for the dog during the day is the most comfortable and appropriate way to help the dog gain weight. Sometimes, the dog will refuse to eat, and syringe feeding may be necessary. At the initial stage, the most essential thing is not to increase the amount of food per meal but to add an extra feeding time. By preventing overeating, the dog won't have digestion or nausea issues. Improved Quality of Dog Food If feeding homemade, adding more muscle meat in meals will help the dog to put on weight in a short time. If the dog usually eats commercial kibble, providing an extra cup of food rich in protein between regular meals will help them to add the necessary pounds. There are certain weight-gain foods that are designed for underweight dogs. Alternatively, many experts recommend feeding an underweight dog with high-quality puppy food, which is generally higher in protein and fat, but lower in carbs. The goal is to increase the necessary daily amount of food gradually within 10 days. Gradually Increased Calorie Density On top of meal frequency and food quality, it is also helpful to choose calorie-dense dog food to help the dog consume those extra calories. The best solution is to reduce carbs but increase proteins and fat with every meal. Also, adding weight gain supplements that contain essential vitamins and minerals, especially phosphate, potassium, and magnesium, will support a healthy increase in the weight for the dog. Homemade Dog Food Meals Homemade meals can be chosen instead of commercial foods or fed in addition to commercial kibble. By adding nutrient-dense foods like whole eggs to your pet's meal, the dog will get a more significant amount of protein from egg white , vitamins from egg yolk , and calories. You can also add fruits and vegetables to the meal, such as apples, pumpkin, or sweet potato. Appropriate Exercise Routine Gaining weight by food intake without proper workouts can be counterproductive. The exercise route should not be designed for burning excess calories. On the contrary, it should be regular low-key walks and easy playtime that will improve the dog's appetite, keep the animal healthy, and prevent obesity. Avoid forcing the dog to run or over-exercise. The goal is to let the dog's body recover and put on lean muscle gradually. Just as with a feeding routine, exercise should start with low-impact ones and increase gradually in its intensity. Feeling the animal along the ribs, checking their body composition, and weighing the animal are the most proper ways to keep track of weight-gaining progress. If the dog's weight increases over time, the actions taken are adequate. On the other hand, if your dog's weight stagnates, you need to consult with a vet and change the diet, or increase the calories in the meal, or reconsider the dog's exercise routine. Best Weight Gain Dog Food for Malnourished Dogs Dog foods designed for weight gain are generally high in protein and calories and will pack additional nutrients, vitamins, and minerals similar to weight gainers for bodybuilders. Some of the best weight gain dog foods for underweight dogs include: Preview. If a dog does not get these essential nutrients, he can fall victim to a number of different health issues, causing him to become weak, lethargic, or even threatened by death. Although most cases of malnourishment are the result of animal abuse, it can also be caused by several other lesser-known factors. Caring for a malnourished dog may be difficult in the beginning. For starters, you have to closely monitor your pet to make sure there are no underlying health issues he is suffering from. Depending on the severity of the issue, the problem may be out of your control. If you find a dog that is to the point of starvation, he will most likely need medical assistance by a professional veterinarian. If you own a dog and he continues to lose weight even though he has not had any changes in his diet or any other alterations in his lifestyle, he may be suffering from malnourishment due to an untreated health condition. You can be the best owner in the world; providing him with food, water, love, and plenty of playtime and he can still fall victim to malnourishment. This article will cover everything you need to know about the signs and symptoms of malnourishment in dogs. By educating yourself, you will be able to spot when your dog is malnourished or know how to treat a dog with a nutrient deficiency. Even though it may take a little extra attention and care to heal a malnourished dog, once he is able to recover, he can be a loving and playful companion for years to come. What is Malnourishment in Dogs? Malnourishment in dogs occurs when the animal is unable to receive or absorb proper nutrients in their body. This issue can be caused by a number of different problems including insufficient food consumption to internal health problems. Regardless of the issue, a malnourished dog can face severe consequences if left untreated. As often seen in homeless or abandoned animals, the easiest sign of malnourishment in dogs is a skinny or emaciated appearance. If the body does not take in vital nutrients that it needs, normal body functioning will be compromised, causing many different side effects to occur. Malnourished Dog Symptoms And Signs A malnourished dog will show several identifiable signs when he is suffering from a nutrient deficiency. If an animal is displaying one or more of these symptoms below, it is highly suggested to take him to your local vet for further examination. Keep in mind the sooner you are able to uncover the underlying cause, the faster your pup can receive treatment, therefore limiting his risk of developing irreversible side effects in the long run. Any unusual symptoms your dog may be experiencing should be addressed to your vet during the diagnosis process. Weight loss As previously stated, serious weight loss is the most identifiable symptom that occurs in malnourished dogs. When a dog is not being fed enough, his body is unable to sustain a healthy weight, therefore causing him to become underweight. It is fairly easy to tell if your dog is at a healthy weight or not. If you notice his rib bones protruding, that is a good sign that he is malnourished. To verify that this is the case, your vet can do a quick examination to see if your dog is at a healthy weight or not. Skin Issues One of the lesser-known symptoms of malnutrition is canine skin issues. Some animals that are suffering from a health condition will experience redness, irritation, or even hair loss. Dandruff is another skin problem that can be present when a dog is unable to utilize nutrients in their body. Any skin reaction or abnormality should be analyzed by your veterinarian, even if symptoms seem minor. Digestive Issues Gastrointestinal problems is always a good indication that your dog is suffering from an illness. Notice if your dog is having inconsistent bowel movements, gas, or diarrhea on a regular basis. Digestive issues in dogs are a very broad symptom and can be a side effect of endless canine health issues in general. Bad Breath Most dogs are not known for being overly hygienic, especially if he enjoys rolling around in the dirt or eating straight out of the garbage can. While a little bit of a stinky smell is okay for some dogs, if they smell pungent or foul, this could be a sign of an infection. Not only can they have a general odor on the body, but they can also have bad breath as well. Regardless if he has a health condition that is causing this problem to occur or not, your vet can at least give you some helpful pointers to mitigate the issue. Coat Health Did your dog have a beautiful, soft coat that all-of-a-sudden turned dull and brittle? If so, that could mean that he is malnourished. Dogs that are unable to get enough vitamins and minerals will often experience changes in his coat, coloring, or texture. You should also keep an eye out for a thinning of the coat or hair loss in general. As you could probably assume, these are not normal signs your dog should be experiencing if he is strong and healthy. Weakened Immune System Is your dog always sick? Does he seem more lethargic than normal? These are all signs of a weakened immune system. Poor nutrition will compromise an immune system, making your dog more susceptible to getting sick. Animals with a weakened immune system are unable to fight off bacteria and infections that a healthy dog would be unharmed by. These dogs will also have a more difficult time recovering from an illness. A weakened immune system is never a good sign, especially when our four-legged friends are unable to communicate how he is feeling. Causes of Malnourishment in Dogs Although most cases of malnourishment are from insufficient food intake, there are still many other causes that can lead to this health problem. These causes may vary slightly in signs and symptoms, but regardless of the issue, the animal will need to be taken care of as quickly as possible. Some of the leading causes of malnutrition in dogs include: Low-quality Diet Just like humans, dogs require a nutritious diet full of vitamins and minerals to stay happy and healthy. Keep in mind that not all dog foods are created equal. Some products contain very little nutritional value or are hiding harmful ingredients. In order to prevent using these types of products, consult with your veterinarian for further recommendations. Your vet will be able to suggest a specific product that works best for your pet and outline how much your furry friend should be eating on a daily basis. Parasites One of the most common causes of malnourishment in dogs is parasites. As said before, you can be doing everything right by taking your dog on daily walks and feeding him nutritious food, and he can still become malnourished. If you assume your dog has parasites, he will also show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or an expanded abdomen. Keep an eye out for these signs and if your dog begins to exhibit one or more symptoms, take him in for further testing. Underfeeding If a dog is not consuming enough food, he will eventually become malnourished. While no owner would purposely do this to their beloved companion, some rescue dogs that have been abandoned or abused may already have a nutrient deficiency as soon as you bring him home. Dogs who have been underfed will show signs of canine lethargy , will appear skinny, and can even develop further health complications if gone untreated. If your dog appears to be skinnier than the average, make sure you ask your vet for specific instructions on how much and how often you should be feeding your pup. Health Conditions If the issue is not caused by underfeeding, parasites, or a poor diet, chances are pretty high that your dog has a more serious underlying health condition. Intestinal tumors , irritable bowel disease , and several other problems can all cause malnutrition in dogs. Generally, if this happens, the dog will also be experiencing some accompanying symptoms as well. If your dog begins to act strange, has a change in coat health, or is experiencing an uncommon behavior, take him to the vet for a thorough analysis. Once there, your vet will be able to run a series of tests to identify any possible health conditions that may be inflicting your furry companion. How to Diagnose Malnutrition in Dogs If you suspect your dog is malnourished, schedule a trip to your vet as soon as possible. Your vet will first start off the diagnosis process by running through a series of standard tests to study the overall health of your dog. At this time, make sure you inform your vet of any other symptoms your dog has been experiencing thus far. This information can serve as a critical factor that can help significantly during the diagnosis stage. Depending on the suspected illness or problem, your vet may continue the testing process if they deem it to be necessary. In cases where you have rescued an animal and he is clearly malnourished, talk to your vet for further recommendations. In severe situations where the dog is extremely weak or in a fragile state, your vet may need to start a more aggressive treatment plan through intravenous fluids. This will help your dog get back to a more stable condition. If your pup has parasites, your vet will recommend a deworming product. For cases that are more severe, intensive treatment may be necessary. While your dog is recovering, make sure he is going to the vet for regular check-ups as often as possible. Use this time to talk to your vet and find out the best ways to treat and care for your malnourished dog. The best thing you can do as an owner is to be proactive and observant of your dog and act accordingly if necessary. Once your dog makes a full recovery from his malnutrition problem, he can go right back to his playful and loving self. Tumbarello, Elizabeth. Jaret, Peter. Tweet We get a lot of questions from German Shepherd owners about how to keep weight on their pups. Chronically skinny, underweight Shepherds can be heartbreaking for an owner who is desperate to put weight on them. What do I do? Schnauzers can have this problem too. So what is it? Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or EPI is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce adequate enzymes to digest and absorb food properly. To determine if this is the case with your shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian and request some blood testing. Shepherds are also susceptible to pancreatitis so it's important that you think preventatively! So what can you do if your shepherd has EPI? Your first line of defense as a pet owner is choosing the type of food and supplements you put into your shepherd. Try the following: Provide as many dietary enzymes as possible. Our recommendation is by feeding a raw diet. Raw meat, bones, organs, and juiced veggies combined will contain all the necessary enzymes for better digestive function. By relieving the pancreas of having to produce additional enzymes you can prevent pancreatic inflammation Pancreatitis. Shepherds that are fed only processed or cooked diets are often missing these vital nutrients. Suggestion: A rotation of our 3P veggies 1 and 4 is a great way to give natural-source vitamins and minerals as well as metabolic support for a dog suffering from a pancreatic disease. This may be a bit gross for some, but excellent for your pup! Add a good portion of raw, green tripe to the diet. Green tripe, an animal stomach that smells horrible, but it works! If fed raw not canned it contains the highest levels of digestive enzymes available in a natural form. Wild canines eat the stomach of their prey first because of this fact. Your shepherd will benefit too. Us it as a supplement on top of regular food portions. Ensure you are purchasing freshly frozen, grass-fed tripe. Provide a canine-specific digestive enzyme supplement that includes ox bile and a variety of other digestive enzymes. This will also provide some extra digestive support. Start slowly and build up to a full dosage if your shepherd is experiencing regular diarrhea. Keeping the gut flora in good working order will help your dog to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Good bacteria in the gut will also help with enzyme production, so don't leave the good bacteria out! Look for canine-specific, high potency, multi-strain probiotics with a pre-biotic added. Feed a lean, low-fat raw diet. High-fat diets can overwork the pancreas and the liver and are not recommended for shepherds with EPI or other pancreatic dysfunction. High-quality lean protein will help pack on the pounds for shepherds having difficulty gaining weight. Steer clear of lamb, duck, and other naturally high-fat meats. Cook yams or squash to add as low-glycemic carbohydrates. Cooked yams and squash are more nutritious and easier to digest than other forms of carbohydrate, such as rice or oatmeal. Also yams and squash pair better with the digestibility of raw foods. Remove the skin, unless vegetables are organic then you can keep the skins on. Make all dietary changes slowly and add one thing at a time.

As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. But at the moment, they need your guidance. For now, this includes sleeping next to you for the first few weeks, maybe even longer. Just have their crate or bed close to wherever you sleep. Our articles on sleeping through the night and establishing a nighttime routine will give you extra tips on getting through this phase. A puzzle toy or Kong will work great at making them feel like you leaving them is actually something quite fun. Potty training All new puppy parents expect potty training to be on the cards. It will help to remember your Boxer pup is a bit of a goofball. For now, we definitely want to let your pup get used to you and settle into their new home. Teach your puppy about surfaces — Different surfaces can feel strange to pups. Use surfaces like grass, moss, paving and sand. Basically, make their tail wag and we bet yours will too. Teach your Boxer their name. Teach your Boxer puppy to sit. Remember what we said about Boxers and their jumping? Recall — Trust us. Preventing resource guarding Resource guarding is where your dog fiercely protects something they have and will do everything they can to keep hold of it. Dogs can resource guard food, a toy, even a person. You can do this by teaching them that hands and touch can be a good thing. As always, back up your soft touches with some treats. Remember that consent is also a thing with dogs! Never force your Boxer to be handled or pick them up against their wishes. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up.

Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Snow Capped Shepherd Rescueis a Denver, Colorado based, volunteer-run non-profit c 3 organization. We do not have a shelter, instead all of our rescued dogs are housed with caring foster families…a temporary stop on their way to happily-ever-after. The problem. The reason so many dogs and cats have to be rescued in the first place is that there are not enough homes. Too many dogs and cats are sadly born to die. Do your part, spay and neuter your pets and encourage others to do the same. The solution. We rescue White German Shepherds of all sizes, ages and personalities. These dogs come to us from former owners, shelters or as strays. Sadly, shelters and humane societies are over-run with homeless pets and tragically must euthanize thousands of adoptable pets every month to make room for more. Why would you need to buy a pet when so many are in need? Foster homes provide care and love for these wonderful dogs while we work to find them permanent homes. Plus, by living in a true home setting, our adoptable animals become better prepared for their new adopted families. Matching responsible guardians with our adoptable dogs takes place through our adoption process. We carefully interview potential adopters to ensure that the right match is made. We ask questions about lifestyle, desired activity level, work situation and gather other pertinent information from potential adopters. Too often pets end up unwanted because they were never a good match for their previous home in the first place. At Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue, we look for people who intend to provide a home for a lifetime and understand what that requires. Visit their website for more information on how your kids can have fun at camp too! For the complete list please see our state-wide German Shepherd Breeders page. It is important to remember that you get what you pay for, so be prepared to spend a little more money if you want to purchase a high-quality German shepherd pup. When you buy a German shepherd puppy for sale in Colorado, you are getting much more than just a pet. You are getting a member of your family. Make sure that you take the time to find the perfect puppy for your home and lifestyle. By doing your research ahead of time, you can ensure that you and your new German shepherd puppy will have a long and happy life together. A dog is a long-term commitment and should never be purchased on impulse. Responsible breeders should always have healthy adult dogs and local breed club information available. When looking for a breeder, take the time to ensure that you are dealing with someone reputable who has the proper facilities to raise a puppy properly. Working German Shepherd Dogs should be raised in working conditions so be wary of any breeder advertising show dogs instead of working stock. Working German Shepherd Dogs have their place, but they need to be bred correctly or there is a risk of high-strung natures which cannot be trusted by civilians or even law enforcement officials. Show dogs will cost more money because they are seen as pets first and foremost, whereas other litters may have more working dogs who are ready to work right away. An experienced breeder will have several years of experience behind them. If you cannot find at least three references from previous customers, move on to another breeder. This is the only way that you can ensure that your German shepherd puppy for sale in Colorado is healthy and has been well taken care of. Visit Your Colorado German Shepherd Breeder in Person Before you actually make the decision to buy a particular puppy, you should visit your breeder in person. This way you can meet all of the puppies and choose just the right one for your family. Take time to tour the property first before meeting any of the dogs. You want to ensure that they have plenty of room to roam and a clean living environment free from drafts or other hazards. The more space your German shepherd has as a puppy, the happier he will be as an adult dog. In addition, pay attention to how well socialized each dog is. In general, only breeding stock should be very wild or aggressive at all times as this can lead to fighting amongst themselves and biting problems later on when they are adults. Visiting the breeder will provide you with a better idea of the temperament and personality of each puppy. It will give you a good idea of how well they have been socialized by their mother and how human-friendly they are. You will be able to see their environment first hand. If anything seems suspicious, or if any of the dogs seem to be in poor health, you should turn around and leave immediately. There are plenty of reputable breeders in Colorado. A good breeder will have plenty of happy customers who are more than willing to talk about their experience. Make sure that you contact these people and ask them questions about the quality of the pup, how well the breeder cared for them, and whether or not they would recommend the breeder to others. If the breeder cannot provide you with any references, move on and look for another one. It is important to remember that a good breeder will always be happy to answer any questions that you have about their dogs. They should also be willing to provide you with copies of health clearances for both the sire and the dam of the litter. This will ensure that you are getting a healthy puppy from a healthy line. If the breeder cannot provide you with any of this information, again, move on and find someone else. Remember, only buy a puppy from a breeder who has plenty of references and can provide you with copies of health clearances for the parents of the litter. These people have purchased puppies from this particular breeder before, and they may be able to provide you with valuable insights into them as well as their dogs. A reputable breeder will be happy to introduce you to these people. They should also allow you enough time to ask them any questions that you might have about both their experience with the breeder and the quality of their dog. Meeting past customers will allow you to get a better idea of what you can expect from both the breeder and the puppy. It will also allow you to ask specific questions about how well your German shepherd for sale in Colorado was able to socialize properly with other people, pets, and children. A reputable breeder will be willing to address any questions or concerns that you might have. If the breeder refuses your request, walk away and find another breeder who is willing to be forthcoming to win your business. When looking for a breeder, you should also ask if they have a good veterinarian that they use. This is important because you will need to take your puppy to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations. It is also important to find out if the breeder has ever had any health problems with their dogs. A good breeder will be more than happy to answer any questions that you have about their dogs. They should also be able to provide you with copies of health clearances for both the sire and the dam of the litter. Only buy a pup from a breeder who has a good relationship with a local veterinarian. The breeder should also be able to provide you with copies of health clearances for the parents of the litter. Ask if they have any references or testimonials from other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. A good breeder will always be more than happy to talk about their dogs, If the breeder cannot provide you with any of this information, again, move on and find someone else. If the breeder is not willing to answer any questions about their dogs or does not allow you to see the parents of the litter, move on and find someone else. This should also include asking to meet with past customers to discuss their experience with this particular breeder. A good breeder will always be more than happy to talk about their dogs as well as share testimonials from past customers who have purchased puppies from them in the past. They should also be able to provide you with all health clearances for both the sire and dam of the litter. An unethical breeder will not be able to provide you with any of this information. If you meet an unethical breeder, do not buy a dog from them and report them to the authorities. This will help to protect other people from being scammed by these individuals. A good breeder will be able to provide you with copies of all health clearances for any of their puppies. An unethical breeder will not be able to provide you with this information. If the breeder cannot provide you with all of this information, move on and find someone else. Before purchasing a puppy, it is important to ask the breeder about any health issues that the parents of the puppy may have. This will help you to determine if the puppy is likely to develop any health issues as they grow older. It is also important to find out what kind of medical care the breeder provides for their dogs. Never purchase a puppy from an unethical breeder as they may not provide any medical care for their puppies. This could lead to your puppy developing serious health problems as they grow older. A good breeder will always have a veterinarian that they use to take care of their dogs. How to Prepare Your Home for Your German Shepherd Puppy After you have found a Colorado breeder who is selling purebred German shepherd puppies, it is important to take the time to prepare your home for the new puppy. It is also important to prepare your home before bringing your new puppy home from the Colorado breeder. This includes making sure that there are no small objects or dangerous chemicals that your puppy could get into while they are exploring their new surroundings. You will also need to set up a designated area for your puppy to sleep and eat. This should include a bed, food bowl, water dish, and toys. Make sure that the area is comfortable and warm, as puppies do not like to be cold. When you first bring your new German shepherd puppy home from the breeder, make sure to keep them in this designated area until they have had a chance to adjust to their new home. Do not allow your puppy to roam freely around your home until they have been properly housebroken. This could lead to them having an accident in your home. These tips will help to ensure that everything goes smoothly when bringing your puppy home. This is because you will not want them to have an accident in your home. When it comes time to potty train, the best option for most people is crate training. This will allow you to put your puppy in a safe and confined area while they are inside of your home. While you may want to give your puppy some time outside of the crate each day, it is important to keep them in there while you are gone until they have been fully trained. Remember that potty training a new puppy is a process that will take some time. Be patient and continue to reinforce the training each day. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Protection plus Love!!! We are a small "Mom and Pop", breeder of top quality, working line, German Shepherds. Established in , we are located in the very center of the state of Colorado in the Rocky mountains. Licensed, and AKC inspected and approved facility. Our goal is to breed Dogs who are top quality, and affordable. Beautiful, healthy, dogs that have stable temperaments. All our dogs hips and elbows have been checked, and passed by the OFA. We do genetic testing to insure none of our puppies will develop Degenerative Myelopathy detailed information regarding DM at the bottom of our "Family Comments Gallery" page. The medical documentation paperwork is available for viewing when you come visit to see our dogs or puppies. We breed for black and tan, black and red, sable, black and bi-color puppies. Mostly we have short coat dogs, but do produce limited numbers of long coat pups. Our dogs are predominantly Czech and German working lines. Trained dogs are a positive addition to the lives of their families. These pups can vary in drives and excitability levels but all are working dogs, capable of doing a job suited to their individual drive levels. We try to make it a top priority to match the right puppy to the right family. Our dogs bloodlines are versatile. We breed puppies who could excel in Search and Rescue, Schutzhund, French Ring or Agility, or be great pets and companions. We breed straighter back, working line dogs.