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Contact Us Home NOTE: If viewing my website on a mobile phone, you will need to click on the three horizontal lines at the top right corner to get to my pages. My name is Debi, I would like to start by telling you a little bit about myself and how I got started with this wonderful breed. I am a small family owned breeder that specializes in French bulldogs. My family and I live in Michigan in the north end of Lansing located toward the Dewitt area. The breed I had in mind was a Boston terrier since this was the breed I grew up with as a child. We just happened to be talking to a family member about wanting to find a Boston terrier for the kids and by coincidence he knew of someone that was looking to find a good home for one. It was funny because when we went to see the little guy we learned right away he wasn't a Boston terrier at all. We weren't sure what type of breed he was at the time but definitely knew he was a bulldog of some sort. To make a long story short we fell in love with Spike and his lovable personality and took him home that day to be our family pet and have been hooked ever since. Since we've owned twenty-two frenchies.To give loving people and family's such as yourselves the opportunity to own this wonderful breed and learn just as we have there is NO other breed like the French bulldog!! If you have never owned a frenchie you're missing out on a wonderful breed and all the GREAT quality's this breed has to offer as loving pets and companions to you and your family! Thank you for stopping by.I want to send a big thank you to pupvine for including Luvforfrenchies in their article "Michigan top eight breeders" Link to their article below. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Michigan? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Michigan work? French Bulldogs Michigan are adorable dogs that were originally bred in the s in England to be companion and lap dogs. They were eventually brought to France where the breed was mixed with ratters to create their look. French Bulldogs for sale Michigan are set apart from other dog breeds, mainly for the way their bodies are structured. They have very narrow hips which makes reproduction very difficult. In order for a female French Bulldog for sale in Michigan to get pregnant, she has to have artificial insemination. Then her French Bulldog puppies in Michigan have to be delivered by C-section. This is what makes them so expensive! How does Uptown work? You just have to take a browse through all the pictures of French Bulldog puppies for sale in Michigan, find the French Bulldog Michigan puppy you love, and connect with its breeder or business. Travel arrangements will soon be made, and your pup may even be flown to you! Simple as that! How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? They check their eyes and ears, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, mouth and teeth, as well as skin and fur. Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? Do you recommend specific food for my dog? Your French Bulldog for sale Michigan needs to grow up strong and healthy. The best way of making that happen is by giving it the best food possible, food that has been manufactured to provide all the vitamins and minerals, proteins and carbohydrates it needs. What is the difference between a purebred dog and a mixed breed dog? French Bulldog puppies Michigan are purebred dogs. This way their temperaments, personalities and looks stay consistent from generation to generation. Mixed breeds are dogs whose bloodline is mixed from two or more different breeds. Are French Bulldogs protective? French Bulldogs in Michigan may be cute and compact, but they can be highly territorial and protective. What colors do French Bulldogs come in? Michigan French Bulldogs for sale have coats in a range of colors and patterns.

The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? Nina is very expressive! She's vocal, loves to cuddle and is always wagging her tail. It is unclear how far the Australians have come in their development. Some breeders are calling multi-generation Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles sometimes there are other breeds mixed in besides Lab and Poodle. Multi-generation Labradoodles are hybrids and are different than the ones being bred by the Australian clubs. The dogs pictured in this info section are the Australian Labradoodles bred in Australia, with the goal of creating purebred dogs. When contacting a breeder selling Australian Labradoodles, be sure to ask what type of Labradoodle they have. Click here for the Australian Labradoodle Standard for dogs being bred by clubs in the country of Australia. Temperament The Australian Labradoodle is good with children and is easy to train. It gets along well with other dogs. It is extremely clever, sociable and joyful, and quick to learn unusual or special tasks. Active, a little comical at times, it can attempt to outsmart its owner if undisciplined. Friendly, though obviously loyal to its own family, this dog is non-aggressive. Height, Weight Standard: Height 22 - 24 inches 53 - 60 cm Standard: Weight Females 45 - 60 pounds 20 - 27 kg Males 55 - 77 pounds 25 - 35 kg Miniature: Height 17 - 22 inches 44 - 56 cm Miniature: Weight 30 - 50 pounds 14 - 25 kg ; males are larger. Living Conditions The Australian Labradoodle will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise This breed needs a lot of exercise, which includes long daily walks. Life Expectancy.

We get asked which size collar would be best for a particular dog breed or types. So here we have compiled a list of dog breeds and their usual neck measurements - and recommended collars. Hindquarters dog collars are available in sizes from XS to Large. XS dog collars fit necks between 18 and 30cm or inches. Small collars fit cm or inches. Medium between cm. And Large dog collars are cm. Airedale: cm inches - we would recommend a comfy Hindquarters large size green or brown fabric cotton dog collar. Brighter colours, like a red dog collar , would work well too. Basset Hound: cm inches - we would recommend a Hindquarters large size brown or khaki soft cotton fabric dog collar. Beagle: cm inches - we would advise a medium sized dog collar in strong but soft and comfy cotton fabric weave, bright colours like red and purple work well. Bichon Frise: cm inches - a small size comfy dog collar would probably be best, perhaps red or blue. Or a small size adjustable harness. Border Collie: cm inches - an adjustable medium size comfy cotton collar would work well, perhaps black or grey. Border Terrier: cm inches - we advise a small size collar made from strong but soft cotton fabric weave, bright purple would work well or khaki for a muted look. Boston Terrier: cm inches - a Hindquarters small size comfy collar would work well, perhaps in red or black. Or a medium size collar would fit too, for a chunkier look. Boxer: cm inches - like lots of other breeds, there can be significant variation according to age and gender and genetics. A strapping Boxer would require a Hindquarters large size dog collar but for a younger slighter Boxer a medium size would work - a comfy khaki collar looks good. Bulldog American: cm inches - a strong but soft Hindquarters large size collar would work. Bulldog English: cm inches - a soft cotton fabric collar would be good, most colours work although red and cobalt blue both look great. Bulldog French: cm inches - either Hindquarters small or medium size collars would work. The medium size cotton dog collar is wider and so probably comfier unless wearing a harness. Bull Terrier: cm inches - a soft but strong Hindquarters medium size cotton collar would be good. Cairn Terrier: cm inches - a small size adjustable washable Hindquarters collar would suit, perhaps in green. Chihuahua: cm inches - a soft XS size dog collar would work. Chinese Crested - cm inches - a soft and comfy XS size dog collar would suit, perhaps in navy or orange. Chow Chow - cm inches - a Hindquarters large dog collar would be good, perhaps the mustard colour. Cocker Spaniel - cm inches - a soft and washable medium sized Hindquarters collar would work well, red always looks good. Collie - cm inches - a large size collar would be best, an adjustable dog collar ensures an exact and comfy fit. Corgi - cm inches - a soft but strong and washable medium sized dog collar works well, khaki and mustard both look good. Dachshund Standard - cm inches - a medium size Hindquarters collar would work best. Dachshund Mini - cm inches - there can be significant variation, most likely a Small or even XS dog collar would work best, soft but strong cotton weave with flex and give is good. Dalmatian - cm inches - an adjustable fabric dog collar in Medium or Large size, red or bright purple would be good. Deerhound - cm inches - a comfy dog collar, cobalt blue looks good. Doberman - cm inches - would require a strong large size collar, maybe black English Setter - cm inches - would require a large size collar. Fox Terrier - cm inches - a small size green fabric dog collar would be good. German Shepherd - cm inches - would require a large size soft but strong fabric dog collar. Golden Retriever - cm inches - a large size dog collar, red is classic. Great Dane - cm inches - a large size dog collar, soft but strong, black or a bright colour like orange works nicely. Greyhound - cm inches - we would recommend a wider soft dog collar, khaki always looks good. Greyhound Italian - cm inches - would require a soft XS collar, blue would suit well. Husky - cm inches - would require a soft but strong large size collar, maybe black or grey. Irish Setter - cm inches - would suit a large size dog collar, bright red would be good or perhaps mustard. Irish Terrier - cm 14 to 18 inches - a medium sized dog collar would work best, green suits well. Jack Russell - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar would work well, grey or red are good colours. Labrador - cm inches - a large sized dog collar would probably work best unless you have a small Lab. A black lab suits classic black but also red and orange , brown works well for a yellow lab. Labradoodle - cm inches - either a medium size or a large size would work, orange looks cute - and is comfy. Maltese - cm inches - a small size or XS collar would be best. Old English Sheepdog - cm inches - a large size soft fabric collar would be good, perhaps grey or red. Papillon - cm inches - an XS fabric dog collar would work well, maybe the red. Pekingese - cm inches - small dog collar size. Pointer - cm inches - a strong but soft large dog collar would work, a red dog collar stands out from the crowd. Pomeranian - cm inches - small or XS sizes. Poodle mini - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar, red always works well. Poodle Standard - cm inches - a small size fabric adjustable dog collar would be comfy, black or blue would suit most coats. Poodle Toy - 20 to 36cm or 8 to 14 inches - a Small or XS fabric dog collar Pug - cm inches - a small sized Hindquarters adjustable fabric dog collar for an exact and comfy fit, bright purple looks good. Schnauzer Standard - cm inches - a comfy adjustable dog collar in medium size, grey looks good. Schnauzer Mini - cm inches - a small size dog collar would be best, grey looks good and would be comfy. Scottish Terrier - cm inches - Medium sized dog collar. Shar Pei - cm inches - large dog collar size. Springer Spaniel - cm inches - an adjustable and washable Hindquarters dog collar in medium size, perhaps green or red. Staffordshire Bull Terrier - cm inches - depending on individual size, a medium or large adjustable fabric dog collar would work well. Vizsla - cm inches - a strong but soft medium size collar, green is a colour that suits well. Weimaraner - cm inches - a soft but strong large size Hindquarters cotton fabric dog collar would work well, both red or bright purple look particularly good and be comfy. West Highland Terrier - cm inches - a small adjustable fabric dog collar, perhaps in green. Yorkshire Terrier - cm inches - either a XS Hindquarters comfy dog collar or perhaps a small size. Please note there is often a wide variation in neck size within different breeds and types of dog, according to genetics, age and gender. So please take our dog breed neck size guide as a rough one. We recommend you measure your dog's neck before ordering a Hindquarters dog collar. How do you measure your dog's neck? It is best to measure the circumference of your dog's lower neck - allowing space for a couple of fingers - to ensure a comfy fit. Or measure your dog's existing collar when flat, between the two points where it fastens. If you have any questions, please get in touch. The standard buckle is not convenient Verdict Black Rhino — The Comfort Collar is the best collar for Labradoodles in terms of comfort and durability. This collar comes with neoprene padding and is made for heavy-duty use. The reflective stitching is an added bonus feature of this collar. There are plenty of features and colors to choose from, and choosing the right one is essential for the safety of your beloved pooch. Here are some tips to help you choose the best collar for Labradoodles. Size and Fit To select the right collar for your Labradoodle, you must know the size of your Labradoodle. Often, a dog collar comes with an accompanying guidebook with size measurements. This way, you can ensure that the collar will fit correctly. Comfort There are several factors to consider when buying a dog collar, from size to style. Choosing a dog collar that feels comfortable to wear is important for a number of reasons. So make sure you choose a safe and comfortable dog collar for your Labradoodle. Easy to Use Apart from looking for comfort, you should also look for an easy collar to fasten. Durability Choosing a durable dog collar is important for two reasons. Dogs have natural urges to chew, such as when they are hungry or when they are teething. The second reason is that the collar may get ripped or damaged by roughhousing. So make sure you choose a safe and durable collar for your dog. Safety When buying a dog collar, consider the safety of your pet. While you are shopping for a new collar for your pet, you should choose one which is safe to use. Style and Design There are different types of materials for collars, including leather, nylon, and faux leather. Dog collars can come in many different colors and patterns. So make sure you choose a collar that complements your dog. Quality Quality should be a top priority when buying a dog collar, and it should be made from superior materials. Dog collars should be easy to open and close, and the buckle should stay securely closed. Ensure the buckle is easily adjustable and does not snag. Frequently Asked Questions What size collar does a Labradoodle need? Use the measurements to find the proper size collar. A lot of dog collars are adjustable or belt-style, making them perfect for the size of your dog. So make sure you buy a collar that is a few inches bigger than the neck size. What size collar should I get for a Labradoodle puppy? There are two basic sizes: small and medium. To determine what size collar your Labradoodle puppy needs, you must use a tape measure to measure its neck and torso. Ideally, smaller puppies will need a collar 10 inches and below size, whereas larger puppies will need 10 inches and above size. Bottom Line While Labradoodles are known to be affectionate and adaptable, they do need the training to live a happy life. As a result, they need a proper collar to contain their energy and prevent them from running loose. If your Labradoodle is prone to pulling, a collar might be a good option. It will help you to easily take your dog for walks and train them to follow your commands. In this guide, we have taken core factors into consideration like comfort, size, quality, durability, and safety to select the best Labradoodle collars. We plan to update this page regularly as better products come into the market. If you think we missed something or want to suggest anything, do let us know by commenting below. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? As a general guide, smaller puppies will fit 10 inches and below while larger puppies will fit 10 inches and above. Labradoodles are very interesting dogs. And when it comes to the dog breeding industry, this breed is what you call a designer dog. That is because they are specifically bred for the exact specific reason, getting these gorgeous Labradoodles. Mixing different breeds often comes with a lot of unknown variables as to how the offspring might turn out. While Labradoodles normally have similar looks, they do vary in size, temperaments, and fur types. That is why each puppy turns out to be a unique individual and must be treated as such. Different fur types mean different grooming habits. And different sizes mean getting a collar that would fit your dog. There is no one size fits all when it comes to dog collars. They may look the same, but they should be a perfect fit for your dog. Sizing Guide Every collar brand has a sizing guide, so before you purchase one for your Labradoodle, it is best to decide the first type of collar you are going to purchase. Normally Labradoodles may fall between small to medium size collars. Labradors are normally large dogs, but the poodles are not. How the parents look and their size must always be taken into consideration before you buy accessories for your growing dog. Points To Consider So when dealing with the qualities of a good dog collar, some points need to be taken into consideration. These are comfort, durability, safety, and quality. That is why collars that are made out of metal or hard plastic are not advisable but is good only for training methodology. Quality When you look for the right quality, it must be flexible and made out of hypoallergenic materials like neoprene, nylon, faux leather, and leather. This is important because dogs are prone to skin diseases especially after prolonged use of a dog collar. Durability A durable collar should be enough to keep the leash secure and in place. It should be able to withstand daily walks, dog park plays, and rainy days. A good collar should also not easily become stinky or stains easily. That is why collars that are machine washable or those that are easy to clean in general are the best choices. Faux leather is a good choice when it comes to durability and comfort, and they are very easy to clean as well. Safety When talking about safety, the materials that the collars are made of should not be toxic to your dogs. Unfortunately, we could not guarantee that the material is non-toxic especially when dealing with generic brands that are massively sold online. The thing about quality collars is that it is assured once you purchase from well-known brands. These are brands that have been in the industry for a very long time. Different Types Of Dog Collars For Labradoodles The different types of collars that would be best for your Labradoodles are flat collars, martingale collar, a head collar, and harnesses. You can go wrong with any of these types of collars as long as you get the product with the right quality and characteristics. It is also essential when you are training your Labradoodle. Flat Collar The flat collar is the most common type that is used on Labradoodles. Normally it is constructed with a buckle or something called a snap connector. These types of collars are usually constructed with leather or nylon and comes in many colors and sizes depending on the brand. When you fit a flat collar, it should be tight but not tight enough to choke your dog. Slipping is the most common issue concerning this type of collar. A new puppy joining the family is a very exciting time. You want your puppy to be the best dog possible, so it is very important to learn a bit about how dogs think and behave. Click here for a collection of choice book suggestions Do not take your puppy to public places where there could possibly have been unvaccinated dogs that could spread disease, until 10 days after its week vaccination. It should then be safe for your puppy to visit friends with vaccinated dogs. The Fun Begins… Shopping Things we would recommend purchasing: Good quality food, gentle Leader training collar teaches puppy to not pull on leash , sling bed, stainless flat-bottomed bowls, dog door, brisket or other large bones, thin liver treats which break up easily for training rewards, pooh bags for walks, pooh scooper for your yard, toys that are durable and good for chewing, stuffed soft toy be careful what it is stuffed with. Things we would not recommend: wee pads or newspaper you are only prolonging successful house-training. Preparing the yard Make sure all gates, fences, etc. It is often a good idea to have pavers under entrance gates, as this appears to be the most likely place your puppy will first look for an exit. Do not let your puppy push through in front of you to go through gates or doors. Teach your puppy first to sit and wait and then be allowed through after you. If you have vertical pool fencing, most puppies will be able to fit through for the first month or so. Wire mesh attached to the bottom of pool fencing, is a cheap temporary safety measure. When Your Puppy Arrives Lots of cuddles and reassuring hugs is the first thing your puppy will need. So make it feel loved and secure. Your puppy will not have been fed since the evening meal the day before if it has travelled by air, as it is better for it to travel on an empty stomach. Have fresh water available at all times. Your puppy will have been used to eating by itself. You can put a collar on your puppy at arrival. But your puppy has had no or very little leash training, so take it gently and at the very beginning only use one if you absolutely need to.

Come get your puppy! He has a great personality , he is up to date on shots,he is not fixed. They are AKC registered and current on all worming and vaccinations. Vet checked. I have attached pictures of mom and dad above. They are available with microchips upon request. They are full of personality and love to be loved. Feel free to contact me at xxxxxxxxxx or email at xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. A beautiful and playful pup, looking for his forever home. Buddy will come with his AKC paperwork, up to date on age appropriate vaccines, as well as dewormed on an every two week schedule. This will be a first come first serve basis, we are available for facetime and to answer any questions. For any more information on Buddy please text me xxx xxx-xxx2. I live in Kansas City, Missouri. My bully expired of a heart attack. He was my best friend for eight years. I miss him dearly. I'm ready for you to pick me up, so that I can brighten up our home! I'm full of life and fun. I can be the best movie, walking, and cuddle buddy that you will ever come across! Both of my parents are exceptional examples of our breed. I will arrive to you healthy and with my vaccinations up to date, before wiping my paws on our welcome mat. Ready for a lifelong best friend? Well, I'm ready for my forever family! The Parents and puppies are raised in our home as one of our own kids. View Detail Black and white female english bulldog. This is the last puppy from two litters totaling 15 puppies. Born August 3rd, she has had all her shots, including rabies and just had her healthy puppy check. Perfect Christmas present. She is great with kids, cats and other dogs. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text xxx xxx-xxxx. Email xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Calls and text are returned within the hour. Email is checked throughout the day. They need loving homes! We will keep the pups until they can eat on their own, nothing further. Shots will be for you to take care of! We had this mistake happen once before and she only had one pup. The pup she had previously resembled german shepherd more than bullie. Long tail, Tall. .FaceTime Available We do not require deposit Pedigree so they are not free. We currently do not have any bulldog puppies available, and the waiting list for our summer puppies is now full. Please check back with us this fall. If you would like to be notified when our waiting list opens up for a future bulldog puppy please feel free to begin the interview process by filling out our puppy application Link , which is required for all potential bulldog homes. We also occasionally have retired adult bulldogs available for adoption to approved homes. Feel free to email us at castlewoodbulldogs gmail. Ronny and Dawn Castillo A Preview Of The Upcoming Litter Of Bulldogs For Sale Our Bulldog Mission Our desire is not only to present and showcase our beautiful bulldog puppies for sale and stud service with you, but we also hope to help educate and inform those considering adopting or purchasing a bulldog. Located in Southern Missouri, about a half hour from the Arkansas border, we live in a log home situated in the middle of 20 secluded, wooded acres. Our journey in bulldogs began back in .Ronny and I were married that year and were very young I was only .I have always been a dog lover but up until that point my experience with dogs had mainly involved toy breeds. Johnny passed away at the age of 11 but long before then I knew we would never be without a bulldog. A few years before Johnny died I began researching the breed more thoroughly and had decided to pursue my passion for breeding and showing. I was hooked! The following year I produced my first litter bred by the champion, Ch. For info or to speak to us directly feel free to call or Email — CST castlewoodbulldogs gmail. This includes health, temperament and conformation. Thus, I set out to find and bring into our program the very best bulldogs from around the world. I attended the Bulldog Nationals and watched with keen interest all of the top bulldogs in the US compete for the Best of Breed title. Shortly thereafter there was a post and discussion in one of the bulldog forums I was a member of regarding a particular European bulldog Ch. Valleybull Silver Sailor at Merriveen. He was one of the most beautiful bulldogs I had ever laid eyes on! So, I started researching and studying the European bloodlines and fell in love with many of their dogs. What I noticed was that while the US bloodlines seem to have better top lines and shorter backs, the European bloodlines tend to have better heads, tails and more bone and substance. By incorporating both the US and European bloodlines into our breeding program, I am aiming to get the best from both worlds. I am very proud of our most recent addition, coming all the way from Spain, Ch. Valley Bulls Burton. We even already have a beautiful puppy living with a family in Kansas City already. You can see a picture of that lovely dog below! So, if you are in Missouri and find yourself really liking the look of our dogs and service, then have no fear! We can get a One of a Kind bulldog to you without over charging you on shipping costs. When you order from us, you get more than just a premier bred bulldog puppy. Our dogs and service is second to none, and we work hard to keep it that way because we truly care. However we fully understand you may need more convincing than that, so why not head on over to our puppy page for some more information, or read below to find some testimonials. Or if you would prefer, just give us a call and have a chat — .I love to follow all of our friends and the adventures they have with their dawgs. Anyone else interested please do the same. Hes mellow, smart a huge :. We couldnt be happier with him and with Ary. Ary is always available to help answer questions of give advise and loves to keep up with his pups as they grow and beyond. In researching, we found Ary and the Olde English breed and could not be happier with the decision to get Bruce. Ary was incredible throughout the process, explaining everything we needed to know about the breed and the process of importing him into Hong Kong. He checked in with us several times before the flight and was in constant contact via text when we went to the airport to pick up Bruce, who arrived a little skeptical of his new surroundings but perfectly healthy and happy. The extent to which Ary cares about every one of the amazing dogs he sells is clear through his attention to detail and willingness to put in any extra effort to make sure his puppies get to, and stay in, good homes. He took to his kennel training and potty training so fast! In searching for our puppy, we did our due diligence researching online and then visiting your property in person. I was impressed with how happy and healthy all of your dogs are. I also enjoyed getting the opportunity to meet the parents of our puppy; they both seemed to have great termperments. Thanks for a wonderful puppy! Lauren W. I recently adopted her from Ary, and it was great! Ary is so devoted to all of his dogs, he even knows them by their bark! His property is a dog haven, dog runs, kiddie pools, and toys for days! He truly loves what he does. When I heard that Ary had rescued a litter of puppies i had to take a look! I fell in love with them all, as i do with all of his litters! He knows the background of each and every one of his dogs, he is so knowledgeable about the breed and is always there to answer any questions i have about Pepper. I will definitely be getting another bulldogge from Ary in the years to come. Thanks Ary! Jenna S. Iowa Hey Ary We just want to say thank for are boy Kane. He one of the best we gotten. He is are first bulldogge and wont be the last. Im just glad you made my day by letting take Kane home to live with use. S im looking forward to the day we get are girl from you. He is pounds and a real joy to have around! Ary is so helpful and we are grateful for him introducing us to this wonderful breed. There really is no better breed of dog! If you are looking for a bulldog and you should be! Shane S. Cares deeply about the health and well being of his dogs. A quality breeder with amazing dogs!! Cinda G. Brea, CA Just want to start off by saying: Ari, isnt just a Breeder hes a good guy and now a friend of mine!!!! I bought a puppy from him last feb !!! Since that time he taught me a lot about the breed to the point where i want to start breeding oldies!!!! So if you looking for a quality olde you have came to the right spot…. We started www. Follow Us on Social Media! Paypal Secured Payments. We proudly offer champion English bulldog puppies for sale in St. Hands-on and selective, we ensure that all of our bloodlines are documented champion bulldogs with detailed family histories and a health guarantee. About English Bulldogs Known for being stout, demure, and dignified, English bulldogs are one of the best and most desirable breeds in the world. Despite their sour-mug expression, they are an amiable and sensitive breed. They are also tenacious and sweet-tempered, which allows them to respond well to patient and persistent training. This makes them excellent show champions, and of course, companions. About Our English Bulldog Puppies We live and breathe English bulldogs and are committed to the preservation of the true purebred dog, striving to breed to the standard that was established in .We give our hearts and souls to our dogs, giving each puppy the love and care they need to become happy and healthy dogs. Our thorough process is why we have been producing champions for the past 20 years. While our main focus in breeding English bulldogs is to find the next competitive show prospect, our bulldogs also make wonderful family pets that are sure to be well-loved members of your family. To learn more about our available champion English bulldog puppies , call Show Me Bulldogs at today. Connect With Us. They date back hundreds of years and are also known as British Bulldogs. They are a muscular, well-built dog with a wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. This breed has won the hearts of generations of families for decades. They are considered to be one of the most popular dogs breeds in existence today. These fantastic puppies have gained popularity worldwide due to their playful, loyal, funny, and caring personality. They are laidback and tend to get along well with just about anyone or anything. They have very approachable demeanors and enjoy the companionship of their family. They also have a very easy-going personality which is one of the reasons they have remained a popular family dog. The English Bulldog does enjoy activity time and burning off energy, however, is not an overly energetic breed of dog. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep your dog feeling and looking his best. Most people recommend feeding this breed two meals each day, spaced about twelve hours apart. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The English Bulldog grows to be between fourteen and fifteen inches tall. At maturity, the English Bulldog weighs between fifty and fifty-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between eight and ten years. English Bulldogs require regular bathing and grooming. It is suggested that they are bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every four weeks depending on their activity level and lifestyle. This smooth coated breed does best with routine brushing which is essential to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan 2. Golden Acres The Golden Acres is one of the most trusted breeders in the state. They have over 20 years of experience working with Golden Retrievers and raising show-stealing puppies. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. All the puppies are hand raised and socialized with children, adults, and other puppies. They also spend a lot of time outdoors, running and playing in the fresh air. Happy and Healthy Dogs Golden Acres is committed to raising happy and healthy puppies. All of their dogs are tested for genetic diseases like hip and elbow dysplasia. They also vaccinate their puppies. They also have a nutrition and exercise program to ensure the puppies are well taken care of. Unmatched Experience The team at Golden Acres is made up of experienced and knowledgeable breeders who have a passion for Golden Retrievers. They have years of experience in caring for, training, and breeding dogs. They are committed to learn and grow their knowledge of the breed to make improvements to the breeding process. They also have a strict breeding program to make sure they produce healthy and beautiful pups. They also have a temperament test to make sure their dogs are good-natured. Positive Training Golden Acres also puts a big emphasis on socializing their puppies. From the time the puppies are born, they start the socialization process. The puppies are introduced to different environments, sounds , and people. This helps ensure the puppies are well-adjusted and comfortable in new situations. They are dedicated to providing support to their customers and are available to answer questions anytime. The team also provides valuable advice throughout the lifetime of the puppy. They also offer a health guarantee so you can rest assured your puppy is healthy and well taken care of. The couple has two children and runs an at-home business boarding dogs and breeding exceptional Golden Retrievers. Contact Details:. 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 Michigan 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 Michigan? 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 Michigan? 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.

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. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma? 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 Oklahoma? 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. 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 Tulsa 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 Tulsa? 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 Tulsa? 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. Buying A Golden Retriever From A Respectable, Professional Breeder Purchasing a Golden retriever Puppy from a respected, responsible professional breeder is by far the best option when it comes to getting yourself a good quality, healthy puppy given the best start in life. A responsible professional breeder: Cares greatly about the overall quality and welfare of the breed and selectively breeds for the betterment of the Golden Retriever population as a whole. Screen sire and dam for health issues in trying to breed puppies with the lowest possible chance of inherited disease. Will help you to select the right puppy for you from the many different personalities in their litter. Not all dogs are created equal! Some are more energetic, more headstrong, more confident, others less so. They will match you to the perfect puppy for your hopes and lifestyle. They handle, care for, and socialize puppies in such an expert way that the puppies have had the best possible start in life and the greatest chance of growing up a confident, happy dog of good temperament. They provide some of the best advice and support that can be given about how you should care for your new family member, from the moment you make the decision right through your Goldens entire life. So as you can see, there are many benefits to buying from a professional breeder. But surely there must be some cons you may be thinking? Well it depends how you look at it, but: A professional breeder will ask you many questions to be sure you are a good fit and have the right lifestyle that fits in with owning a Golden Retriever. You could have a long wait. Good breeders are popular and do not breed excessively, so you may have to wait a year or more before a puppy becomes available. But a benefit to this is that it weeds out the impulse buyers which cuts down on puppies that are given up after rushed decisions. Compared to some other options, you will pay quite a high price. I say a high price but what I mean is a fair price really. A fair price for a good quality, healthy puppy. But mostly backyard breeders are the unscrupulous types. You usually will not be able to see the premises on which the puppies are bred, they will not ask any questions of prospective owners and there will be no commitment or offer of help and advice for the future of the puppies they breed. This results in a poorer quality of life for the animals, and expensive vet bills for the owners. One positive of backyard breeders though is the price. Yes, they are considerably cheaper than professional breeders. And the savings you make up front are more than lost for extra vet bills down the road. So the risk is your puppy has a higher chance of inherited disease and behavior problems than the general population. There will be no true guarantee of pedigree. But if your friend has taken steps to get veterinary advice and care for the puppies, has looked after and socialized them well, maybe even knows the father of the puppies and can prove he is of good health and pedigree then this option may not be so bad. However they got into the situation, there are way too many homeless dogs in the world. Lack of space and insufficient funding inevitably means that many dogs each year are euthanized. Maybe you could give a second chance at life to such a dog? But you should also be aware that some rescued dogs will have behavioral issues, though the center staff will inform you of this. They may also have suffered some level of abuse and have psychological issues, phobias or anxieties that may not be evident until a certain situation arises. So there is some due diligence and this greatly increases the success rate of finding happy homes for dogs that suit their new human family. This is obviously a good thing for both the dogs and hopeful owners too! Buying From A Pet Store Or A Puppy Mill A large number of dogs bought from pet stores originate from puppy farms, also known as puppy mills, which are profit driven businesses that mass-produce dogs and sell through pet stores and classifieds. In puppy mills, dogs are bred in appalling conditions, kept in overcrowded small wire cages, given little exercise or socialization, enjoy no human contact and receive nothing in the way of veterinary care. The puppies are usually taken away from their mothers and litter-mates at such a young age that behavioral issues in the adult dog are extremely common. The dogs in puppy mills are no more than a commodity, a cash crop to be produced and harvested while spending as little as possible to maximize profits as far as possible. Yes, many people have been lucky enough to have purchased the most glorious of family pets from a pet store, but for each one a lot of suffering has occurred for countless more. I strongly advise that you do not support the puppy mill industry and never buy a dog from a puppy mill or pet store. The risks of not getting a quality, healthy dog are too high, and the ethics of the industry are shocking with many dogs suffering at their hands. Everybody should work to eradicate the entire industry and the first step is by not supporting them financially. There are many places and options available to get a Golden Retriever puppy, some good, some bad, and puppy mills and pet stores just an appalling option to be avoided. In my opinion your 2 best options are to source a puppy from a professional breeder or to adopt from a rescue center. But there are other options available and I hope this article has given you some information to help you in your decision. Please let us know about your experiences of getting a GR from any of the sources above, or even one I may have forgotten. Thank you. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

We are a legacy breeder specializing specifically in British Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Our dogs are from the very best British Labrador champion bloodline born right here in Alabama, and whose original ancestors were imported Show More Established in , Hickory Nut Kennels is an AKC certified full-service dog kennel in Cullman, Alabama. Our dogs are from the very best British Labrador champion bloodline born right here in Alabama, and whose original ancestors were imported from top British and Scottish hunting and field trial champions. British Labrador retrievers are mild-tempered and easily trained making them the perfect family companion as well. We at Hickory Nut Kennels love our puppies and continue to follow their lives ev Show More Our dogs are not only for the hunter! We at Hickory Nut Kennels love our puppies and continue to follow their lives even after they have left our care. Matter of fact, most of our family members come back to us for training and within just a couple of years are taking home their next pup! We are located in Cullman, Alabama. Share 0 Shares Labrador Retrievers also make excellent family canine companions. They love their owners unconditionally and are wonderful with children. Before deciding on a breeder, be sure to speak with them yourselves, either through email, phone, or in-person visit if possible. Most breeders will have limited AKC registration, meaning that you can show the dog but not breed them. Some will do a full AKC registration, but that will come with a higher price tag. There are two lines of Labradors, American and British, with the British line having the stockier look with a broad chest and head. Rock Springs love this line for their intelligence, excellent hunting instincts, and loyalty. Many of their sires and dams come from champion bloodlines and have won awards. Each year, Rock Springs offers black, yellow, chocolate, fox red, or white puppies, depending on their sire and dam. Each puppy will come with a health guarantee and is replaceable if a serious health defect is found within the time frame of buying a puppy. With excellent customer reviews from customers and an active social media page, Rock Springs Labs is an excellent choice for your newest family member. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. When it comes to finding the perfect Labrador Retriever puppy, there are tons of options out there — one of which is purchasing from a breeder. Most are small, family-owned operations run by people who sincerely love Labrador Retrievers, meaning you should be getting happy, healthy pups. Look at our list to get started on your hunt for your new pet! The 9 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Alabama 1. Aggie Labs Visit Their Website Fairview, AL Aggie Labs runs a small, family-owned kennel featuring AKC approved Labrador Retrievers and has Labrador puppies in a range of colors, including black, chocolate, yellow, cream, and silver, with the lighter colors costing a bit more than the darker ones. They offer limited AKC registration, up-to-date vaccinations, a month health guarantee, plus all puppies are micro-chipped. One reviewer highly recommended this breeder saying the puppy they got was easily trainable. Puppies come with health guarantees of 1 year for eyes and 2 years for hips. Hickory Nut also offers nationwide personal delivery. Colors include black, chocolate, white, yellow, and fox red. Their health guarantee covers parasites, eye color changes, fertility issues, and communicable diseases. One customer commented on the extreme cleanliness of the kennel, as well as the high intelligence of the puppy they purchased. Ruffwood Labs encourages kennel tours so you can see their pups and get to know them. Dogs come to the buyer with up-to-date vaccinations and have been wormed, plus you can request to have an AKC Reunite Microchip placed. This breeder also offers a military and first responder discount! All puppies sold will have had their first round of shots and will be wormed. Prices vary according to the title and pedigree of the parent dogs. All pups sold will have been wormed at least twice and will have had their first shots. Parent dogs have all been cleared for any hip or eye issues.

Updated on 13 July Pros Intelligence When you think of a German Shepherd , a hard-working, muscular dog comes to mind. However, German Shepherds are one of the smartest breeds in the dog world. They were ranked third out of breeds in a study in .Only the Border Collie and Poodle are more intelligent. Usually, it takes five repetitions to teach a GSD a new trick and these dogs will follow the first command 95 per cent of the time. If you bring home a German Shepherd, you will have a brainy dog on your hands. Lola pawsofshire is an example of a German Shepherd that is quick to learn new commands. Lola is very intelligent and easy-going. She has never destroyed the house, and rarely kicks up a fuss about anything. We do a lot of mental training with Lola too as opposed to psychical exercise so she is very good at switching off and knowing when is chill time and when is play time. German Shepherds work alongside the military and the police, while they were the first American service dogs. Experts suggest keeping the commands short and sweet will help to make the training process a little bit easier. They have an eagerness to please, which helps too. When we rescued Phoenix, he walked terribly on lead, constantly pulling and lunging towards people and dogs. He just needed someone to set boundaries and help him direct his energy. We have trained him to be a very obedient dog and to get walks off lead perfectly and can even do a few tricks. German Shepherds have a desire to protect and have got a reputation for being great family dogs. The degree of loyalty depends on the amount of work that you put in during their puppyhood. With their eagerness to please and willingness to follow commands, you can strike up a strong relationship with your GSD pup which will cultivate their loyalty to you. German Shepherd owners who can establish themselves as the parental-type figure in the home can grow a companionship with their dog that is full of love and mutual respect. Freja the German Shepherd is extremely loyal to her owner. A GSD will never stab you in the back, it will always have your back. You have a unbreakable bond with your dog and they will support and help you during their whole life. I will have a long life companion. Great guard dogs While these dogs can make great family pets due to their caring and loving personalities, German Shepherds are universally recognised as one of the best types of guard dogs. Classed as medium-to-large sized dogs, a German Shepherd can grow to be cm 24—26 in tall and kg 66—88 lb in weight. They have very powerful jaws and their bite strength is second only to their compatriot, the Rottweiler. The GSD is a bold, courageous and fearless dog, all characteristics that make it ideal to guard the home. They are quick to learn commands and if trained properly, they will back off if a welcome stranger enters the home. German Shepherds are very loyal and committed. They will protect their owner, family and their house. They are amazing guard dogs and great family pets that will surely keep you safe. They are naturally protective and loyal twords their owners and will stick by you with everything. Beauty This breed can serve a purpose, whether it is guarding your home, assisting those in need or working alongside the police force. For all their admirable traits, perhaps their best is their beauty. These dogs are long, elegant animals that have a lush coat. Their wide head and square muzzle give them a powerful stature, while their pointed ears and big brown eyes give them an alert appearance. With a gentle, sloping bushy tail, the German Shepherd is a breathtaking breeds. Cons Beauty the German Shepherd Photo: beauty. These German dogs require a lot of exercise. Experts recommend at least two hours a day of exercise to keep your GSD happy. Depleting their energy levels can result in a better behaved dog at home — GSD have a reputation for chewing furniture. While committing to multiple, lengthy walks might be a con for some dog owners, it could also be a positive for those with the free time to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle. If you are unable to give your GSD the necessary exercise due to work commitments, you may want to consider hiring the services of a dog walker. German Shepherds also require much of your time to keep them healthy and calm. If left unexercised, shepherds tend to become very hyper, anxious, and not well tempered. You need to have lots of time open to exercising your dog such as walks, runs, and socializing them daily. One of the biggest issues facing the breed is hip dysplasia. A lot of GSD owners have encountered this problem and it is a reoccurring theme with the breed. They are also susceptible to epilepsy. It is a common hereditary disease found in these working dogs and can result it seizures. German Shepherds have also been known to suffer from bloating otherwise known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus which occurs when gas builds up and makes it difficult for a GSD to breathe or sends their body into a shocked state. The price can vary depending on each breeder. For GSD from certain bloodlines, you can expect to pay quite a bit more. Aside from the initial cost, feeding your German Shepherd and regular trips to the vet can hit your budget hard. Prepare for lots of hair around the home! They shed heavily year round so you will need to be prepared to get the vacuum out on a regular basis. They have a thick undercoat which blows out twice a year, which can be a particularly challenging time for a GSD owner. Three or four times a year should suffice! The amount of times I have to hoover my house daily is ridiculous. I could easily hoover 5 times a day and there would still be dog hair everywhere, and I mean everywhere. It gets stuck in the carpets, in the laundry, I find it in my food. I even bring it to work with me and find it in my work diary. I bathed Lola the other day, ended up clogging the drain up and had to go out and buy drain unblocker before I could use my shower again. Shedding season is even worse. Hair everywhere, enough to make a new dog friend made of her hair for her. Aside from this, Lola gets near daily brushes using an undercoat rake and a slicker coat. Doing so tends to keep the hair under control, but you still find it everywhere. By observing other dogs interact with their fellow pooches or humans, a GSD can learn the proper way to behave. Her attention is on loud noises or even something like wind, but we try and remain patient with her at all times. We use positive reinforcement training only and will continue on this path for the rest of her life. These dogs are known to be capable and smart working dogs that add a lot of fun and love to your family. It could be said that there is no ideal dog. All dog breeds have their pros and cons that we must considered in order to know which is the dog that best suits our lifestyle and needs. So, what are the German Shepherd pros and cons? Keep on reading to find out. Also known as Alsatian, this dog originated in German in the late s as a strong and intelligent herding dog. Later, it became one of the most popular dogs and the parent to one of the most popular breeds in the USA. It is a working dog that can also help the blind as a reliable guide dog, chase criminals, sniff out illegal substances at the airport and in malls, visit the sick as a fun dog, and herd sheep. They were able to help find survivors and comfort rescue forces. American German Shepherds are slightly different from their German counterparts. They have become more accustomed to family life and will show slightly different behavior. The dog usually lives up to 14 years, with an average life of 10 years. The male reaches a maximum weight of 90 pounds, while the female will be slightly lighter, weighing around 70 pounds. German Shepherd Pros and Cons There are several differences between members of the same breed, so these traits might not be common in every German Shepherd dog you encounter. Here are the pros and cons of the German Shepherd. Here are some of the advantages of getting a German Shepherd. Strong body German Shepherds have strong muscular bodies to be able to herd sheep. Due to its history as a herding dog, you can expect a lot from this strong and smart dog. It likes to stay active and will appreciate daily walks and play sessions that you both can enjoy together. Long Life Span German Shepherds can live up to 14 years. As long as you keep an eye on your dog, take them to the vet, pay attention to their diet, and make sure that they exercise regularly, they will have a long healthy life. Some health problems are expected at an older age, just like other dog breeds. Intelligent If you take a moment to think about all the things that the German Shepherd can do nowadays, you will realize how highly intelligent this dog breed is. This dog loves to have a job. German Shepherds were the first service dogs in the United States. They were also used to help the blind, the deaf, and people who suffer from seizures. Dogs can detect epileptic seizures 45 minutes before they occur. This dog is an excellent rescue dog and can sniff out survivors in buildings collapses as well as avalanches. They will go out of their way to warn you in case of danger. In addition to being highly trainable, a German Shepherd also has a desire to please. This means that you can teach your dog to do anything you want. Obedient This dogs understand the rules and will follow them. They will always listen to orders, and this qualifies them as excellent show dogs. German Shepherds take part and succeed at agility and obedience competitions because they are easy to train. To make sure that your dog is following your orders, you should be the alpha leader. In general, German Shepherds are easy going and will listen to whatever you tell them to do. Loyal German Shepherds are loyal dogs and will go out of their way to help you in case of danger. These dogs make great family dogs with a strong desire to protect their owner. A German Shepherd is approachable but takes time to trust strangers. Once you have established a good relationship with your puppy, you will have a loyal life companion. All the time you spend with your dog as a puppy will be reflected in a lifetime of loyalty where your German Shepherd will always try to keep you safe and happy. Your dog will usually identify the parental figure in the house and have a huge love and respect for you as a protective parent. Excellent guard dogs, they can have an aloof attitude and can even become a little aggressive if they feel danger. This dog is extremely protective of its owner and will do their best to protect you in case of danger. It has a powerful jaw and will not hesitate to attack anyone who might threaten you. This is why it will work for you if you live alone and need a companion to keep you safe. The German Shepherd is a courageous and fearless dog. Beautiful In addition to its exceptional personality, this dog is also very beautiful. It has a lush smooth coat and bold yet loving eyes. The pointed ears give this dog an alert appearance while the face shows its good nature. Combined with their gentle yet strong personality, German Shepherds are very beautiful. The puppies look lovely and innocent, and the adult dogs are also a delight to look at. Various Colors There are different types and color variations of German Shepherds you can choose from. The most common colors are black and tan, but you can find black and cream, black and red, blue, gray, sable, and even white German Shepherds. White is not considered a standard color for the breed by the American Kennel Club, but you can still get a white dog if you want to. Clean Taking care of a German Shepherd is pretty straightforward. As a matter of fact, 4 to 6 baths a year would be enough. Too much bathing strips the hair of its natural oils and make it less healthy and more prone to falling and excessive shedding. You can give your dog a bath whenever they get into mud or if you feel that they need special cleaning. Use a mild dog shampoo and a special brush to remove the tangled hair, mats, and knots. One of the pros of owning a German Shepherd is that you will not have a problem traveling with your dog and take him wherever you want to go. German Shepherds Cons Despite all the amazing traits of the German Shepherd, owning one comes with a few disadvantages. German Shepherds need a lot of daily exercise, love to run, and enjoy long play sessions. If you keep your dog in an apartment, you should take it out for regular walks. Not getting enough exercise can make your dog too aggressive or depressed. Giving your dog the needed physical stimulation every day will keep them in good health and will also decrease the tendency for less desirable behaviors like barking or chewing. The dog suffers from separation anxiety if you tend to leave them for long periods on their own. German Shepherds are family dogs and enjoy playing and interacting with everyone in the house. If you tend to spend long hours away from home, your dog will become too depressed and bored because they need human interaction. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long will chew on furniture pieces, a common trait of German Shepherds. They will also bark and act a little bit aggressive. An under-exercised and ignored dog will show you that it needs attention by engaging in destructive behaviors. Health Problems Like many other dogs, German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia , especially when they get older. This condition is too painful and deprives the dog of moving properly. This dog can also suffer from epilepsy , which leads to seizures. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or bloat is one of the common health problems in German Shepherds. It usually happens when the dog drinks a large amount of water after eating or exercises vigorously after a big meal. The stomach fills with gas and then twists, so it can be very painful. If left untreated, the blood will not be able to travel back to the heart, and the dog can go into shock. However, their ears are also prone to infections and checking the ears once a week is strongly recommended to prevent health problems. They Shed a Lot A typical German Shepherd has a dense medium-length coat to protect the dog from rain, snow, and dirt. The outer layer could have straight hair or can be curly or wavy. The luscious coat of the German Shepherd comes with a few cons. German Shepherds shed a lot all year long, so you need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner that handles pet hair and dander efficiently. In addition to regular shedding, the dog loses its heavy undercoat twice a year, which can be a serious problem for German Shepherd owners. Regular grooming and cleaning the hair regularly will help you deal with this issue. You should brush the hair at least 3 or 4 times a week to keep the shedding under control. Needs Socialization German Shepherds are generally quite nervous around strangers. Their aloof nature makes them great guard dogs, but they can become a little too anxious when they meet people for the first time. Early socialization is essential to help your dog overcome their natural fear. Your German Shepherd is a smart dog and can pick up proper behavior by watching how humans and other dogs interact. As long as you socialize your German Shepherd with other pets, dogs, and children since puppyhood, there will be no serious issues. German Shepherd puppies are quite expensive and need special care and treatment. Final Thoughts All future dog owners should first consider all the pros and cons of owning a German Shepherd. A German Shepherd is an exceptional dog. Bringing one to your home comes with lots of pros because this dog is easy to train and will always put your life first. However, you should be able to give this dog the attention it needs. They also need lots of physical stimulation and should always be given a job to do. Related Content. By Chris German Shepherds are iconic and classic dogs that adore affection and companionship. In many ways, German Shepherds are the ideal pet for those who love adventure, road trips, and playing outdoors. German Shepherds are an excitable dog breed that loves spending time with their family and small children. They are fun-loving dogs who enjoy the thrill of adventure and can adapt to nearly any situation. However, they come with a few of their own issues. German Shepherds can be susceptible to health conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy. This dog breed is also loud and may spend plenty of time barking. With the right amount of love, attention, and training, a German Shepherd can make a dog owner and family happy. Read on to find out more about the German Shepherd pros and cons of ownership. Pros German Shepherds are stunning dogs with lively personalities and vibrant coats. These dogs love spending time with the family and will gladly cuddle, show affection , and play well into the nighttime hours. German Shepherds are also highly vigilant and are ideal protectors and guard dogs in case of an intrusion. There are many positives to owning a German Shepherd, including plenty of affection, constant playtime, and an enhanced sense of safety. Loyalty There is no dog breed as loyal as the German Shepherd. This dog adores their owners and families and will spend as much time as possible making them happy. These dogs thrive on praise, attention, and adoration. They will also do nearly anything to get them. German Shepherds rarely leave their owners, choose other people to be around, or abandon them. The owner and German Shepherd go for a walk. Stunning Features This dog breed is stunning and has a coat of fur that comes in many colors. Some German Shepherds may have nearly solid black fur , while others have various colors. German Shepherds have stunning features like warm, chocolate brown eyes and a resilient body type. Black German Shepherd running. Training Is Easy German Shepherds are easy to train, which is why they are often used by police departments in the United States. German Shepherds are constantly willing to please and want to do anything possible to make their owners happy. Because of this eagerness to please, German Shepherds accept commands and instructions. Owner trains her train German Shepherd. Adapts Well This dog breed adapts well to changes in routine and nearly thrives on new adventures as they come up. There is nothing more exciting than a vacation for a German Shepherd. All the new sights and smells can make a German Shepherd excitable and engage their need for something new. German Shepherd runs on the water. Highly Intelligent German Shepherds are highly intelligent and love to engage in the part of their brain that enjoys puzzles and solving riddles. This dog breed will engage in hide-and-seek or spend hours digging holes in the backyard if it needs to engage its brain. It can be hard to hide from a German Shepherd since they are so intelligent and often used to locate missing persons and items. German Shepherd hyper actively plays with a ball. Loves To Stand Guard German Shepherds are very protective and love to watch for potential dangers and threats to their families. German Shepherds will alert to anything they deem even mildly threatening and will use their bodies to shield those they love to protect them. German Shepherds can be very protective of young children and check on them multiple times a night. German Shepherd approaching his owner. Loves Small Children German Shepherds are especially loving to small children. This dog breed loves playing outside and will spend hours running in the yard, chasing children, and playing catch with toys. German Shepherds will also do anything to protect small children and enjoys laying down with young children at the end of the day. German Shepherd looks after the baby. This dog breed will also give you gifts they find like sticks from outside or their favorite toys. German Shepherd smiles upon seeing his owner. Cons Although charming and loving dogs, German Shepherds may not be right for every household or family — especially those that are busy. German Shepherds require plenty of work, attention, and affection, which some families may not be able to give during their busy schedules. In addition, German Shepherds may have some health conditions as they get older and require more cleaning due to their stunning, long hair. Read through our list of negatives to German Shepherd ownership to decide if a German Shepherd is right for you. Needs Constant Tasks German Shepherds need nearly constant work to maintain their happy demeanor. When left without toys, tasks, or other things to keep their mind engaged and happy, they may start to show signs of emotional distress or depression. German Shepherd nudges his owner to show affection. Constant Energy German Shepherds have constant energy , and this can be exhausting for some dog lovers and families with older children. The constant energy in a German Shepherd may have them running around the house at odd hours and make for mess and destruction. A big boy German Shepherd enjoys a beach visit Barks Frequently German Shepherds are hyper-vigilant and always on the lookout for danger , meaning they may bark a lot to alert their families of threats. A family with young children may get annoyed with the constant noise, and some small children may have trouble sleeping if their dog barks all night long. German Shepherd barks aggressively at the stranger. Plenty of Shedding German Shepherds are notorious for shedding. This dog breed is not hypoallergenic and can cause a lot of issues for families with allergies. German Shepherd sits with his owner in the field. Health Issues German Shepherds are known to get hip dysplasia as they get older. This usually manifests with noticeable hopping, cracking noises, and trouble holding their own weight. German Shepherds may also get epilepsy or other seizing disorders. Separation Anxiety German Shepherds are known to have some separation anxiety. This can manifest as whining, crying, and general unhappiness. Although difficult, a German Shepherd can be left alone for eight hours but should be checked on frequently to prevent damage or property destruction. German Shepherd lying on the ground. Expensive German Shepherds are highly sought-after dogs. Due to this high demand, this dog breed is expensive and may require reservations years in advance. It can be challenging to get your hands on a German Shepherd, especially a puppy. German Shepherd puppy is under crate training. Socialization Your German Shepherd may need a lot of socialization with other dogs and humans. These dogs prefer to live in a place where there are plenty of visitors and friends who can spend time with them. Without the proper socialization, your dog may start to become sad, depressed , and lonely. Two German Shepherds lying on the grass after a training. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are affectionate, loving dogs who adore spending time with small children. This dog breed will gladly spend hours playing, running around the yard, and standing guard for their loved ones. German Shepherd thrives in adventurous environments and will enjoy running around, listening to your commands, and playing with the family. However, German Shepherds can have health conditions and other factors that may make them a challenging pick for busy dog lovers. Although German Shepherds are charming, this dog breed may be susceptible to health conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy. German Shepherds are also loud dogs who enjoy alerting their owners of visitors, friends, or intruders. This dog breed can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners and may be too much responsibility for those who live busy lives. By considering the German Shepherd pros and cons of ownership above, you can decide whether they will be ideal for your family and needs. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This is greatly linked to their high intelligence and trainability. GSDs will be happy in a home with a large yard, but they can easily adapt to apartment life as long as they get enough daily exercise. They will also adapt to different weather conditions and diverse living conditions. People link dog loyalty to pack behavior , which does not imply dominance but a sense of family group. But pack behavior also points to a basic dog characteristic of social animals. German Shepherds are known to develop strong bonds, show affection, protect, and stick with family through thick and thin. GSD loyalty has also been nurtured over the centuries by training in their original herding role. But, like all other breeds, German Shepherds are not all affection and loyalty. They also come with their fair share of drawbacks that are worth noting before bringing one home. On the contrary, it means knowing them well before committing to be their parent. As one of the most popular dog breeds in the US and the world, and with its many great qualities, purebred dogs definitely come with a fat price tag. Expending energy comes with a myriad of health and overall well-being benefits for German Shepherds and all dogs. A poorly exercised GSD can quickly become overweight and develop destructive behavior due to boredom and unused energy. On average, adults require around 2 hours of exercise daily. That can be divided between morning and evening walks and other engaging activities at home or as part of training. This behavior was inherited from their wolf ancestors as a hunting and survival skill. Since German Shepherds live with us and cannot show their hunting skills whenever they feel like it, prey drive is tamed through training. But as the saying goes, where there was fire, ashes remain. German Shepherds can put out their hunting instinct once in a while. Risk his life chasing moving cars or bikes. Become a stalker of other smaller animals. Focus on moving things and fail to concentrate on training or commands you give. My German Shepherd chasing squirrels — clearly needs more prey drive training! On one side, they are rated slightly above average in their ability to be friendly toward other dogs. On the other side, you should be extra careful if you want to keep cats and smaller pets like rabbits or birds. Remember that GSDs have a strong prey drive and are likely to see smaller animals as merely game. To prevent this, you should gradually introduce your doggo to a cat early in life and gradually. But you may want to avoid pet rabbits and birds altogether if dealing with a fully grown GSD. That is especially true if breeders test their dogs for possible genetic-inherited conditions before breeding. Nonetheless, the breed is associated with several health conditions, including:. German shepherds often have a lot of health problems. They are large in size and have an abundance of energy. Sometimes german shepherds bark a lot. Their temperament can sometimes be disagreeable. It can be hard to find a reputable german shepherd breeder. Sometimes they tend to latch to one person. You will need to be their leader. They can sometimes become aggressive. As you can see there are a lot of pros and cons to keeping german shepherds. So now you know in short the pros and cons of having a german shepherd. On average they live for around years. Most of their lifespan is going to be based on genetics, whereas some of it will also be based on the lifestyle you give them. There are 11 officially recognized color variations for you to choose from. As well as the normal black and tan, you can also get white, black, grey, bicolor and many more colors as well! In fact, this is one of the reasons that german shepherds make such great family pets. When you look at the different jobs dogs can have, german shepherds fill most of them! They can often be herders, guard dogs, and drug sniffers. They can also comfort the sick and old, and become excellent guide dogs as well! However, for your german shepherd to be like this, it is important to remember that they need to be socialized properly. Check out the pros and cons of owning a Rottweiler! They form extremely deep bonds with the people closest to them, who they see as their pack. And these bonds are unlikely to be broken for new people. However, it also causes them to become more wary of strangers. Highly Intelligent And Trainable German shepherds are both highly intelligent and highly trainable. In fact, according to Rover. Of course, training your german shepherd effectively always requires the right training course. However, there is a point where the weather becomes too cold. Find out more here. Find out how to keep your german shepherd cool. But in either case, if the weather is too hot or too cold for your german shepherd, it will be the same for any dog. Check out the pros and cons of owning a golden retriever! Anything more than that and the oil on their coat will be effected. German shepherds rarely smell too doggy. But if they do, you can always buy an effective doggy deodorant for them! Generally, when you have a dog your social life tends to improve. Not to mention that everyone sees dog owners as more trustworthy! They have healthy bodies that help aid in giving them a long and happy life. There are forums and websites all over the internet filled with amazing advice on how to look after your german shepherd! This makes german shepherds even easier to raise and learn about! If you live by the beach or you often visit the beach, then a german shepherd is a great choice for you and your family! Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! However, with the constraints and lifestyle some people have, they may not be best suited for your own personal circumstances! Here are all the disadvantages of owning a german shepherd. Each time to grow a coat more suitable to the season. Fortunately, there are lots of ways you can manage german shepherds shedding. They Like To Have A Job Unlike some family pets which can just lay around and spend time with your family, german shepherds are going to need a task. Sometimes There Are Health Problems Unfortunately, like all pedigree dogs, there are some health problems that can occur, especially as they begin to get older. Health problems can often mean higher vet bills, and additional care needs to be given to your pup. Some common health problems that occur in german shepherds include dysplasia, arthritis, and deterioration in the rest of their joints as well. A big dog with a lot of energy can quickly become unruly and hard to control. They Need Lots Of Exercise Having a big dog with lots of energy goes hand in hand with giving them a lot of exercise. When you have a german shepherd ideally they should be let off the lead for an hour a day to run around. Fortunately, not all german shepherds bark and there are things you can do to stop them barking. Find out how to stop a german shepherd barking at night, barking at strangers or barking at other dogs. If left unchecked, this wariness can cause them to bark and growl at strangers and other dogs. As well as a lack of training, poor breeding can also cause this to happen as well. Check out this guide on how to socialize your german shepherd. Oftentimes people will breed and breed their german shepherds to make money. Toys like KONGs which can entertain them are a great place to start. This is can become problematic as it causes massive amounts of stress to your german shepherd, and they often end up becoming destructive. But they are going to consume a lot of your time. They Tend To Favor One Person A german shepherd will normally favor the person that provides them with the most care and spends the most time with them. They Can Be Aggressive Aggression will occur in all dogs, but it does seem to be more common in german shepherds. Anything you leave lying around that they can get their paws on could end up being destroyed. Remember though, all dogs can be like this when left alone too long. Then you have to pay for insurance, food, travel, and training for them as well. So after reading all of this, you may be wondering if a german shepherd is going to be the right choice for you and your family. You Like A Challenge Owning a german shepherd can be a challenge. FAQ Now you know all of the pros and cons and as you can see owning a german shepherd is going to be an amazing experience! However, here are some of your most frequently asked questions! If you do have to leave them, make sure you take them for a big walk and that they have plenty of water before you go. On top of this, puppies and seniors dogs should only be left for a couple of hours at a time and no more than 3! German shepherds are known to be extremely vocal dogs, so a lot of the time they do bark a lot. The good news is with proper socialisation and training you can either teach them not bark, or teach them to be fantastic guard dogs. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? All dogs are dangerous! And german shepherds are no exception. German shepherds are not known to bite or attack their owners anymore than any other breed of dog. However, if they are pushed they will try to protect themselves, and obviously german shepherds are going to do a lot more damage than other dogs. Which is one of the reasons you may see german shepherd attacks on the news more often Can Two German Shepherds Live Together? Of course two german shepherds either male or female can live together! If two puppies are raised together they can often create their own pack and become unruly and disobey commands. The difficulty with owning a german shepherd really depends on you as an owner. However, they have strong personalities and if you let them walk all over you they will. Recap Now you know all the pros and cons of owning a german shepherd. I hope you found this article helpful! And make sure you check out the rest of the website. German shepherd origin German Shepherd pros and cons Advantages of owning a German Shepherd are abundant. GSD owners report that the breed is easy to train, highly intelligent and can be trained to a high standard. Pros of German Shepherds include the dog's desire to please the owner which helps during training. German Shepherd breed has many other advantages, including the dog's willingness to protect the owner and to guard the owner's posessions, including the home where a German Shepherd lives. German Shepherds are very protective of their families and can be trained for personal protection. German Shepherds are perfect dogs for active owners who can spend most of the time with the dog. GSD dogs can be trained for a variety of jobs, from personal protection to search and rescue and so much more. Despite many positives associated with owning a wonderful companion dog such as the German Shepherd, there are some negatives that need to be taken into consideration. Cons of owning a German Shepherd include the dog's grooming needs. Due to abundant shedding German Shepherds need to be brushed frequently and owners of GSD can benefit from having a good vacuum cleaner that will help to control the amount of dog's hair around the home. German Shepherds are very active and without sufficient exercise the disadvantage is that the dog may display unwanted behaviors that include damaging furniture or recreational barking. This working dog needs to have a job to do. The original purpose of the breed was to be a shepherd dog and owners of GSD dogs need to understand that this breed is not ideal for sitting around the home with nothing to do all day long. City dwellers may find that German Shepherd is not an ideal breed for a small apartment. The large and energetic dog benefits from having lots of space to run and an ideal home for a German Shepherd should have a yard where the dog can run around and explore. Disadvantages of owning a German Shepherd is that this large dog requires daily training and mental stimulation. Disadvantages of owning a German Shepherd include the breed's health problems. German Shepherds are predisposed to certain genetic diseases that include hip dysplasia. High impact exercises such as jumping should be avoided to minimize the risk of joint problems down the road. German Shepherd litter size: 5 to 10 puppies How long do German Shepherds live? German Shepherd life span: 9 to 12 years How much does a German Shepherd cost? German shepherd is a large working breed that is loyal to the owner. This German dog breed is exceptionally intelligent and easy to train. German Shepherd is among the top five most intelligent dog breeds. Fearless and alert temperament of German shepherd makes a good watchdog. For German shepherds, their work is their life. These dogs are often used by the law enforcement services as well as by the rescue teams. German shepherds are still used for herding today among other jobs. Are German Shepherds good with kids? A properly socialized German Shepherd makes a loyal and even tempered family dog that can enjoy the company of sensible kids. Tireless German Shepherds have plenty of energy needed for playing with active kids in the yard. German Shepherds are naturally protective and intelligent dogs that can be wonderful companions for active families. Keep in mind that German Shepherds are not recommended as apartment dogs - the large working dog breed is happiest in a home with a yard and a job to do. German shepherds make an excellent companion and a family dog as long as you properly train and socialize the dog. Socializing a German shepherd helps to achieve that stable and confident temperament that German Shepherds are known and valued for. Introduce your puppy to people of different age groups, take the GSD German Shepherd Dog with you wherever you go - to a busy street, to the park, to a mall, anywhere the dog is permitted. Make sure to keep the dog comfortable during your outings as your goal is for the dog to feel comfortable in different environments. Introduce your German Shepherd to people that frequently visit your home, to your friends and relatives. Some people argue that when training a GSD as a guard dog, there's no need for the dog to feel comfortable around strangers and therefore socializing it with various people is not necessary. The reality is if your dog is spending his days locked in the backyard, without seeing other people or the outside enviroment, the dog may become fear-aggressive, and will not be able to distinguish a mailman from a burglar. By socializing the dog you are helping the dog to distinguish which situations are safe and which situations may be out of ordinary and when his guarding instinct needs to kick in. Nanuq is the name of the German Shepherd Alsatian on the picture. We learned from Nanuq's owner that he is a very special dog. Nanuq is gentle around kids, friendly with every dog and human that he meets and will never show aggression. Nanuq is very capable of defending himself when necessary and at the same time he would never be the one to start a dog fight. Well-socialized German Shepherds such as Nanuq can set an example of a well-mannered dog in various situations, making their owners feel proud. For example, a mailman approaching your home should not be considered a threat. But a stranger trying to enter the property should get his attention. This is why it is important to socialize the dog so that he would be able to understand which situations are safe and which require his attention. German shepherd's original job was to protect the herd from any dangers. The dog's family becomes his herd and as a result this breed does so well as a guard and protection dog. It is a natural instinct of your German Shepherd to react to any changes in the environment and to be alert. A German Shepherd that is not properly socialized will react to each stimuli. As a result the dog will be getting stressed out by everyday situations, for example any time a neighbor walks past your property or if there's an unfamiliar dog on the street passing by. This is the reason why early socialization is so important. A properly socialized German Shepherd will be confident when walking on the street and seeing other dogs passing by, nor will the dog try to attack the neighbor. Be sure to provide enough socialization to dog to build his confidence in the world around. The GSD then can distinguish a dangerous situation from a situation that should not alarm him. Naturally there will be less needless barking as the dog will not react in an alarmed way to normal everyday events. One of the most unrated aspects of a German shepherd is his gentle personality. Despite the large size, German shepherd makes a good house dog. The gentle serving nature is what leads to the German shepherd's most amazing role of guiding the visually impaired. A guide dog helps a blind person to avoid situations that might endanger his blind partner. German Shepherds can also serve as hearing assistance dogs. These dogs are trained to alert their deaf or hearing-impaired human partner to important sounds, like the person's name, a baby's cry, the alarm clock's ring, the oven timer's buzz and the fire alarm's wail. When the German shepherd hears the sound, the dog is trained to go to the person and give a signal, such as a nudge of his nose which indicates that he heard something that the deaf person needs to know about. Then the German shepherd will indicate the source of the sound so that the owner can respond appropriately. A well-trained service dog can do most of the tasks that would otherwise force a person to hire a human helper. Intelligence, loyalty and courage made the breed perfect for a variety of different tasks. The German shepherd's reputation as a police dog is legendary. The reason is versatility. German shepherds are often used for search and rescue, narcotics and bomb detection. See video below for more detailed information about this working dog breed. German shepherd shedding Do German Shepherds shed? Yes, German Shepherds are famous for abundant shedding. The dog's coat changes twice a year and each shedding period lasts about a month or more. To keep your animal looking tidy and to reduce the amount of dog hair clinging to your clothes and furniture, daily brushing is recommended especially during the heavy shedding months. Brushing your dog outside may help to reduce the amount of dog hair you will need to clean up after you brush the dog. Check Price Using a Furminator deshedding tool helps to keep a German Shepherd shedding to a minimum. See German Shepherd Furminator review video below. In the video, a German Shepherd owner is using a Furminator brush on his German Shepherd for the first time. White German Shepherd German shepherds come in a wide range of colors. Black and tan, black and red, black and silver, sable, solid black and even solid white German shepherds. Solid white German Shepherd is the same breed, and the only difference is the color of the coat. When the German Shepherd breed was newer, all-white puppies were frequently born to dark-colored parents. Most German breeders and many American breeders killed the white pups at birth because they were considered defective and could not be registered or entered in shows. Now, German Shepherds of any color, including white German Shepherds are welcome in Agility, Obedience, Rally, and other companion competition events. In the Conformation ring, however, dark, richly colored shepherds are generally preferred, and white German shepherds are disqualified. Solid black German Shepherds are often called Lacquer Blacks. Solid black color can be almost invisible in dark surroundings or at night. The coat length can range from short to long and have the appearance of feathering, flowing or skirting. Regardless of the color of your German Shepherd, your four-legged friend should have the stable temperament that we expect from the breed. German shepherd grooming How often should you bathe a German Shepherd? Bathe your German shepherd every month or so. Be sure to completely wash out the shampoo to prevent skin issues. Thoroughly dry your dog before going outside after a bath. Wipe the dog's ears with clean, soft towel after bath to help prevent ear infections. Dog shower attachment From an early age get your German Shepherd accustomed to having his teeth brushed only use toothpaste formulated for dogs. Brush the dog's teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Provide your German Shepherd with chewable treats that help to keep teeth healthy. Trimming German Shepherd nails is an important part of grooming. If you notice that your pet's nails are too long - it may be painful for the German shepherd to walk. Trim your GSD's nails when you hear clicking sounds as the dog walks on a hardwood floor. Dog ear wipes provide an easy way to keep your dog's ears clean. German shepherd training Start training your German Shepherd as soon as your dog enters your home for the first time. It is important to establish rules from the very beginning, especially with a large breed such as German shepherd. Basic obedience training for German shepherd is a must. Basic commands help you to have a good control over your GSD. If you like teaching your German shepherd the basics, you will probably enjoy teaching the dog advanced skills even more. Advanced skills are needed for show dogs. Playing and walking with your German shepherd helps to raise a physically healthy animal. Training your German shepherd basic commands and helping your German shepherd to memorize names of different objects - such as his toys will help your puppy to develop intellectually. Some German Shepherd owners provide a dog with one new toy at a time and keep repeating the name of the new toy. Let the dog play only with this toy for a few days until the dog clearly associates the toy with the name of the toy. This way you can build your German shepherd's vocabulary from an early age. Do not rush this process and stay consistent. Once you achieved success, keep moving forward. Whenever your dog did something wrong - stay calm and do not call your German shepherd to come to you. If you do that - the dog will associate you calling it with a punishment. It is best to ignore the bad behavior and praise the good behavior. Use one word commands and only say the command once. If you say the command more than once, the dog will think that the command consists of more than one word and as a result may ignore the command if you only say it once down the road. If you let your dog to sleep on a couch today, then it is reasonable to expect the same behavior tomorrow. If your house rule is - no dogs on a couch then be sure to enforce it at all times with no exceptions. Clear house rules are important for you and for your dog. Stay consistent and patient and you are going to achieve success. If your German shepherd is easily excitable and hyperactive, you can help to fix this problem by ignoring hyperactivity and rewarding calm behavior. Learn more about training a German shepherd puppy by watching the video below. German shepherd personal protection training German Shepherds are among the top breeds used for personal protection. Highly intelligent, strong and naturally territorial German Shepherd can be trained to protect the owner and the owner's family. Personal protection involves advanced training techniques and you will likely need to enroll your dog in training classes that specialize in personal protection. Special equipment such as protective clothing will be used during training. Be sure to do a thorough research on training techniques that the school uses and get in touch with people who had their dogs trained for personal protection in that school. Ask questions and take your time before you select the right dog training school and instructor to train your dog. Selecting the wrong instructor can be a disaster for your dog and for you. Do your homework and research before you commit your GSD to the training. Protection dog training is a costly and time-consuming process. Protection dog training may take about a year and sometimes even longer. A properly trained for protection German Shepherd will be able to protect you in any environment, not only in the artificial environment where the dog got the training. The dog will be able to think independently from you rather than rely on your commands during a real life situation when you may not have the time or opportunity to give the dog any commands. At the end of the training you and your dog will have a partnership type of relationship rather than a master-servant type of a relationship. Protection dog training involves educating not only the dog but also the owner will need to gain a lot of knowledge of how to handle a personal protection dog in order to enable the dog to do its job right. The dog in turn will be able to protect your family members from attacks, abduction attempts, and during home invasion if of course the dog was trained not only for sport but for real life situations. These types of dangerous situation require that the dog makes independent decisions in a quickly changing situation. To get the dog to the level where he is able to make the correct decisions based on real-life threats, the owner needs to develop a mutually understanding relationship with the dog that completed the training. Keep in mind that the fully trained dog will need to complete re-fresher courses every twelve to eighteen months which can add up to expenses already spent on training the dog initially. There are plenty of dog trainers that claim that they are able to train your dog for a real life protection. Pay close attention to how the training is conducted. Are the dogs trained only during the daytime and on the same territory? If so - the dog may not properly react at night and in a different setting when the real attack takes place. Are the trainers always wearing protective sleeves and the training attacks are following the exact same set routine every time? Is the dog only trained to respond to one attacker? If you have a positive answer to any of these questions then the protection training is done for sport rather than for a real life attack situation and the dog can not be considered to be a trained protection dog. Best dog food for German Shepherds Feed your German shepherd twice a day. Make sure that you are feeding your German shepherd quality dog food that does not include corn for protein as some German shepherds may be allergic to corn protein. German shepherds need to have access to clean drinking water throughout the day. Pick a high-quality dog food made for large-breed dogs. Cheaper dog foods contain too much fat or vegetable protein, and this can lead to rapid growth which in turn can result in hip or elbow dysplasia. Lower quality ingredients may result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can cause skeletal complications later in life. An active pound 36 kg adult German Shepherd needs to eat approximately four cups ml of premium dry kibble food or two-and-a-half pounds 1 kg of fresh meat and bone each day. Owning a German Shepherd pros and cons Remember the following basic requirements if you are thinking of getting a German shepherd dog: the dog requires daily exercise, training, and of course your time and attention. Without enough exercise your German shepherd is more likely to get joint diseases as well as become destructive. Lack of regular exercise leads to weakened muscles and heart. Exercise your German shepherd by walking, running with dog pals, playing fetch, swimming, etc. They are very active dogs with tremendous learning capability. German shepherd is a big dog and at least basic training is necessary to provide the owner with a good level of control over the dog. The German shepherd enjoys both mental and physical stimulation and can greatly benefit from training lessons with either the owner or a dog training professional. You are also building your dogs trust by walking the dog, feeding him and by playing dog games with your German shepherd. Bonding with your German shepherd is a process and as you are spending time with your dog, the bond grows into a lifelong friendship. If your German Shepherd spends a lot of time in the yard, it is a good idea to provide the dog with a comfortable dog house. A dog house helps to protect the dog during inclement weather. If you live in a warm climate, choose a dog house with good air flow to keep the German Shepherd comfortable during hot days. Due to their emotionally stable nature German shepherds make a great addition to families with children. German shepherds are protective of their family, and can be very territorial. Before you get a German shepherd, research the temperament of the puppy that you are planning to get. The temperament of the dog is shaped by the genetics and the environment in which the puppy grows up. Socializing the dog from an early age, providing the dog with plenty of positive interaction with humans and other dogs is very important for raising a well adjusted dog. Cons and pros of owning a German Shepherd - video Where to get a German Shepherd You can get a German shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder or from a German Shepherd rescue. In both cases it is beneficial to learn as much as possible about the dog's temperament to ensure that the dog is a good fit for you and your family. Breeders provide their puppy buyers with complete health records for their pup, a four-generation pedigree, and the proper paperwork to register the dog. Be sure to find out whether the breeder conducted an x-ray testing for hip and elbow abnormalities prior to breeding and ask to see the results. Another option is adopting a German Shepherd from a shelter or a German Shepherd rescue organization. Many wonderful dogs end up there through no fault of their own. Dogs are given up for adoption for many reasons, most commonly because of changes in the owner's situation. A dog owner finds a job in a new town and the family can not take the dog with them. A family member develops an allergy to the German shepherd. The owner dies and no one in the family is willing to take the dog. When you adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue organization, there may not be much information available about the German shepherd's past. Ask the person handling the adoption to tell you as much as possible about the dog's behavior while he was in their care. German Shepherd puppies are sometimes found in shelters or German Shepherd rescue organizations, but most of the dogs are either adolescents or adults. There are some advantages to getting an older dog. The older German Shepherd may already be housetrained and may know some obedience cues and have other good skills. If you are set on getting a German shepherd puppy, then you may need to wait a while to get one from a shelter or from a German Shepherd rescue organization. In case you are selecting a pup from a litter of multiple German Shepherd puppies, be sure to pay close attention to the way puppies interact with one another. Observing the puppies will help you to understand each dog's inborn personality traits that will normally get more prominent as the puppy matures into an adult German shepherd. There's also a very simple puppy personality test that you can try and it will help you to quickly assess the character traits of all puppies in the litter. Inborn temperament along with the environment where the dog is growing up will be the main factors that determine the character of the full-grown German shepherd dog. If you invest your time and energy into developing your German shepherd from an early age, treat the dog with respect and expect the same from the dog, you will enjoy years of rewarding experiences with your German shepherd in return. Choosing a German shepherd puppy will be easier if you already know what you'd like your dog to accomplish. If you are looking for a German Shepherd to participate in competitive sports such as Obedience, Agility, Tracking, or Herding then seek out breeders whose German shepherds have proven their potential in the sports that interest you. The same approach works in case you are looking to exhibit your German Shepherd in Conformation shows. You would need to narrow your choices of German shepherd breeders to those whose dogs have proven accomplishments in Conformation shows. Conformation shows are competitive events where German shepherds and purebred dogs of other breeds are judged against the written Standard of Perfection for their breed. The Standard describes the ideal appearance, gait, and temperament of the breed. Males and Females are judged separately, and the winner in each sex is awarded from one to five championship points. The number of points is determined by how many dogs compete. Winners in both sexes are then judged together, along with champions, and the dog among them is selected as the Best of Breed BOB for that day. That dog then goes on to compete against the other BOB winners in his group. German Shepherds are in the Herding Group. A Conformation dog must be kept in peak of health in order to win. To find the right German shepherd for protecting your farm animals from predators you would naturally go to a breeder whose dogs have a proven record of related protection work. Temperament, structure and talent can all be inherited and passed down from German shepherd parents to pups. Training and the right kind of stimulation can enhance and strengthen a German shepherd's inherited potential. To excel in a particular activity or sport, the potential must be present from the beginning. As you are choosing a German Shepherd puppy for a certain activity or sport, it would be a good idea to bring someone experienced in the field to evaluate the pup or dog before you make the final decision. For example, Obedience trials test a dog's response to his handler. The German shepherd must obey verbal commands and hand signals immediately, precisely and willingly. The handler is allowed to command the GSD once, and then must give no further cues until the exercise is finished. Between the exercises the handler is allowed to praise and pet the dog, but the dog must remain under the handler's control. There are several levels of difficulty in Obedience, with a title to be earned at each level by attaining three to ten qualifying scores at that level. A qualifying score in Obedience is or better. A perfect score is .Obedience levels include Novice Obedience, Open and Utility level. In Rally, the German shepherd and handler heel together around a course of numbered stations, each with a sign indicating an exercise for the handler and the dog to perform. About fifty exercises test the dog's and handler's teamwork skills. In Rally the handler is permitted to talk and encourage the dog. For Agility, dogs are judged on speed and accuracy over a course of jumps, tunnels, ramps and other obstacles. Each German shepherd is timed as he individually races over a numbered obstacle course as directed by his handler. In Agility the dog performs the jumps and obstacles and the handler does not. An experienced Agility German Shepherd learns to respond instantly to subtle movements of his handler's shoulders, hips, and knees on the course, as cues for changes in direction or pace. Types of German shepherds There are two types of German shepherds: the working line German Shepherds and the show line German Shepherds. There is a significant difference between the temperaments of the two types. The show line German shepherds tend to be more calm and mellow. The working line German Shepherds are more hyper and high energy than show line dogs. Working line type of German shepherds do well with more active owners that spend plenty of time exercising the dog, playing and walking with this active animal. Be sure to select the type of German Shepherd that matches your level of energy. For example, if you are a couch potato then it would be a mistake to get a working type German shepherd. The reason is that a working type German shepherd that is not sufficiently exercised will turn into a frustrated animal and as a result such dogs tend to damage furniture or shoes which is a sign of a dog that is frustrated. Working line German Shepherds are more appropriate for people who enjoy running, exercising and other physical activities that can provide enough exercise for your dog. German shepherd health issues German shepherds tend to have joint problems as they age. If you notice that your dog is beginning to have trouble walking take it to the veterinarian. Your veterinarian can prescribe the appropriate medication that will help your aging dog with the joint pain. German shepherds are also predisposed to hip dysplasia. For healthy German Shepherds and for German Shepherds with joint issues or arthritis, getting a good quality orthopedic dog bed allow him to get a good rest. The dog may start preferring sleeping in his own bed rather than trying to take over yours. Pannus, which is an inflammation of the corneas of both eyes is a common eye disease that affects mainly German shepherds and German shepherd mixes. Bloat is another dangerous condition that German Shepherds are susceptible to. Signs of bloat include the dog trying to vomit but nothing or little comes out, the dog appears uncomfortable, whining, pacing, sitting up or getting back down in an effort to eliminate the discomfort. Obvious abdominal pain, abdomen may feel tight, like the skin of a drum, heavy salivating and the dog may go into shock where the gums turn pale color, elevated heartbeat and irregular, shallow breathing may be observed. Take the dog to the veterinarian immediately if you see any of these signs of bloat as bloat can turn deadly within an hour. Call your vet and let the vet know that the dog is potentially suffering from bloat before you leave your home so that the veterinarian will be prepared to take care of the dog as soon as possible. To minimize the risk of German Shepherd developing bloat, feed the dog twice a day and use slow feeder dog bowl that helps to slow down a fast eater. The dog should eat in a calm state of mind as an excited dog swallows more air along with food, which is associated with bloat. German shepherd origin German shepherds originate in Germany and their ancestors were the shepherding dogs. The breed was created by Max von Stephanitz in .Max von Stephanitz started a breeding program using the best dogs he could find in order to create an exceptional working dog. Back when the breed was developed, shepherds needed a dog that could do more than push a few sheep around. The dog had to have a good nose for tracking a lost sheep. They needed a helper that could work all day, that was fast and could work independently. As a result the German shepherd breed was developed. Compare German Shepherd to other large dog breeds. Marissa Taffer is a consultant, writer and strategist based in Philadelphia. She lives and works with her rescue dog Charlie, a certified therapy dog. But have you wondered if the German shepherd makes a good pet? Learn all about this magnificent breed and decide if adding one to your family is the right choice. About the German shepherd German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs, and for good reason. They are loyal, protective and agile dogs. The average German shepherd stands between 22 and 26 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 50 pounds. Male dogs fall to the higher end of this range and females on the lower end. As their name implies, the German shepherd originated in Germany. In the late s a a German cavalry officer, Captain Max von Stephanitz began working to breed the ideal German herding dog. He bred herding dogs that at the time had some variety from district to district in the region until the breed began to resemble the German shepherd we see today. As there became less of a need for livestock herding, he promoted these dogs as working dogs — great for police and military work. Which is why they still hold many of these jobs today. When bringing a German Shepherd into your home, you want to ensure your dog will have a job to do. Otherwise, this pro can quickly become a con. Loyal to family In addition to making a great working dog, the German shepherd can be trained as a personal protection dog for the family. This works well because these dogs form deep bonds with their families and can naturally become very protective. While these dogs may easily learn to watch over your kids, remember not to leave young children unattended with dogs. Do well in almost any climate From warm weather too cooler temperatures, these dogs can live and work in any climate. Their double coat keeps them warm in the winter but also protects them from the sun and extreme heat in the summer. Like any other breed you still want to ensure they have access to shelter when needed as extreme temperatures can increase the risk of things like frostbite and hypothermia or heat stroke. Attractive dogs These handsome dogs come in a wide variety of colors. These include black, blue, grey and even white. Active and need a high level of exercise Although this can fall into the pro column for families who are very active, it is important to remember that these dogs need to work. So, you need to make sure you have a plan to give your pup enough physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy every single day. With a life expectancy anywhere from years, this is a lifetime commitment. Even as these dogs age and start to slow down, they will still need some work to do that is appropriate for their level of fitness. This type of personality can come in handy for certain types of working dogs. With a family pup, it might mean you need to bring strangers into the house slowly and carefully. When having a party, be sure to give your dog a quiet place to retreat to if they become overwhelmed. Some German Shepherds bark…a lot If you live in close proximity to some neighbors, they may not appreciate a pup who can turn up the bark volume at every person, squirrel or leaf that blows by. In order to minimize barking, German shepherd owners can teach their pup the quiet cue and reinforce being quiet instead of barking. Is a German shepherd a good family dog? The short answer is maybe. It really depends on your family and your lifestyle. It is important that potential owners of German shepheds have a plan to ensure that their dogs have a job to do and enough space to get some exercise. Like any other dog, German shepherds need proper training and socialization. This means exposing your dog to as many people, places and things as possible when they are young. You also want to make sure your dog is under you control. A 90 pound German Shephard dragging you around town can be downright dangerous, so leash manners are a must. A good and reliable sit, down and come will also help you keep your dog well under your control. At Ollie , we know a thing or two about feeding German shepherds. This breed is one of the 10 most popular of all of our customers. German shepherd parents know Ollie will deliver delicious and nutritious food their pups will beg for meal after meal. Our recipes packed with human grade carefully selected proteins and combined with delicious and wholesome high quality fruit, vegetables and grains will keep your best friend full, happy and healthy. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie. The German Shepherd is a well-rounded breed of dog and there is a reason for its popularity among dog lovers! They are usually very easy to train and learn quickly, due to their love of learning and how much they love being with their owners. Loyalty The German Shepherd also has a reputation for being an extremely loyal breed of dog. There have been stories throughout the years describing the loyalty of the German Shepherd, from the German Shepherd who helped keep a child alive to the German Shepherd who died protecting his beloved owner. These stories of the heroism of a German Shepherd are not few and far between, either. All over the world, the loyalty of the German Shepherd is renowned and celebrated by fans of the breed. Affectionate In addition to their loyalty, German Shepherds also tend to be a very affectionate breed of dog. They are quick to bond with their owner though sometimes this bond maybe with only one person in the household! While they can vary from dog to dog in how cuddly they are, there is a universal level of affection in the German Shepherd breed and all of them generally enjoy being around their owners and being directly involved in the goings on of a household. Guard Dog German Shepherds also make excellent guard dogs , even if they never receive the proper training to do so. As part of their often extreme loyalty to their owners, the breed has very high protective instincts which makes them a great choice for those who are looking for a dog to watch over their house and deter potential thieves and attackers. Athletic Another big pro of the German Shepherd breed is their athleticism, high energy level, and good work ethic. These dogs love being active! The German Shepherd is a popular choice for those who enjoy physical activities such as hiking , running , swimming , or other sports. German Shepherds do well in the rural countryside and in the heart of the city. Provided their physical and mental needs are being met, they make great dogs for apartment or condo living. They also do well in a variety of weather and temperatures, from hotter parts of the world to some of the coldest and wettest locations. Their intelligence, loyalty, and bravery also mean they are less likely to shy away from new experiences and encounters though this can vary based on their individual history and socialization training. Family Dog The German Shepherd also has a well-earned reputation for being a great family dog. Provided they are trained from a young age and socialized appropriately, German Shepherds do very well with children of all ages and sizes. They can thrive in busy family environments and their loyal and affectionate nature means they are often gentle and patient with children. They also tend to have a higher level of tolerance than other breeds, and as long as the children have been taught how to interact with dogs in an appropriate and safe way, a German Shepherd is likely quite happy to indulge a child in their often unique play scenarios and environments. While their popularity has its own set of pros and cons which we discuss in part below , in general, the popularity of the German Shepherd makes them easy to locate if you are on the search for one. In addition to rescues, there is a large network of reputable German Shepherd breeders who strive to highlight the best of the breed while reducing the number of genetic issues the breed currently faces. Health Issues Unfortunately, one of the biggest cons to the German Shepherd breed is a plethora of health-related issues. Due to poor breeding over the years which is also discussed further down in this list , the German Shepherd tends to be prone to genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. While there are many other potential health issues German Shepherds may face, these three health conditions are the most prominent and most common. While each of these disorders and many others have testing available for dogs that someone is considering breeding, many unethical breeders choose not to conduct those genetic tests and thus the conditions are still widely seen in the breed as a whole. German Shepherds are also prone to diet sensitivities, skin conditions, heart problems, and certain cancers. Grooming Requirements While there are certainly other breeds of dogs that require much more grooming than the German Shepherd such as the Siberian Husky or many of the Poodle crosses , the German Shepherd does still require a moderate amount of care when it comes to their coats. Depending on the coat type of your German Shepherd, they may require weekly brushing to avoid matting and at least twice per year a German Shepherd will shed heavily check out our article on how to deal with the shedding! However, they do not require shaving or any type of breed cuts unlike the Poodle and other breeds who require more specific grooming to maintain their coat health. Separation Anxiety One of the not-so-nice reputations that the German Shepherd has gained is their propensity for separation anxiety. This is largely due to their loyalty to their owners and their dislike of being left alone for long periods of time, and much of the time the anxious behaviors are not clinical separation anxiety that requires veterinary intervention but rather separation anxiety that can be dealt with under the guidance of a reputable trainer or behaviorist. If a German Shepherd is not conditioned to being away from their owners and left alone for long periods of time, they may develop anxious and destructive behaviors including chewing, digging, scratching, and excessive vocalization such as howling and whining. Poor Breeding As we discussed above, the popularity of the German Shepherd makes them easy to find but this popularity has also resulted in poor breeding and many unethical breeders who choose to breed for profit rather than for the love of the breed. There are many, many backyard breeders and puppy mills dedicated to the German Shepherd and it can be difficult to locate a well-bred dog from a reputable breeder. This poor breeding has led to many of the genetic issues the breed faces, as well as a risk for increased aggression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders in the breed. Behavioral Issues As with many breeds of dogs, the behavioral issues a German Shepherd displays are largely related to their genetics and how they were raised. In line with the poor breeding practices of many German Shepherd breeders, certain behavioral issues can be present in the breed. This can include an increased level of aggression and lower tolerance to external stimuli, obsessive-compulsive disorders such as circling and pacing or chewing of themselves or others, excessive licking , excessive fear responses, and other genetic issues as a result of poor breeding. Energy Requirements One of the pros of a German Shepherd is their athleticism and high energy levels, but this can also be considered a con for some, especially if you have two German Shepherds. If a German Shepherd is not adequately exercised both physically and mentally , they risk developing destructive habits and other behavioral issues that can be hard to fix. Vocal Dogs For some the bark of the German Shepherd is plus, but for many others, their love of barking, whining, and expressing themselves vocally might be a bit too much. This is especially true if you live in an apartment or neighborhood setting. While this vocalization can be reduced if the dogs are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, it can be a lengthy and sometimes frustrating experience trying to deter the barking. Investment This last con is not exclusive to German Shepherds, but the breed may be more prone to being an expensive dog to keep due to their larger size and potential for health-related issues. As a larger breed of dog, German Shepherds require a larger amount of food which can add up over time. In addition, the breed does frequently experience dietary issues so special foods with limited ingredients or more unique protein sources might also increase their food bill. Due to the risks of health issues such as dysplasias and other genetic conditions, German Shepherds also often require additional health screenings and veterinary care especially in their senior years to help manage these issues. Outside of monetary investment, German Shepherds also require a hefty dose of energy investment from their owners. As a high-energy breed, they need frequent and vigorous physical exercise. Their high intelligence also means they can get bored easily so they will need more mental stimulation as well. The German Shepherd is also very owner-oriented and so many require quite a bit of affection and attention from their owners which can sometimes be difficult for owners to deal with if they want some time alone. The benefits of getting a puppy include being able to really shape the puppy and ensure that you have a well socialized, happy, and healthy German Shepherd once they reach adulthood. The downsides to getting a puppy include having to go through the potty training process, the teething phase, and the general work that comes with having a curious young pup! The benefits of getting an adult German Shepherd include little to minimal work when it comes to potty training, less or no mouthiness, and many adult German Shepherds who have already received basic training. The risks of getting an adult German Shepherd include training issues for dogs who received poor socialization as a puppy, bad habits that have been instilled in them by previous owners and which may require some work to change, and less time with your German Shepherd as they may already be well into their adult or even senior years. Getting A German Shepherd From A Shelter With pet overpopulation at an all-time high, adopting a German Shepherd from a shelter or rescue group is a great option to help a dog who is at risk and to open up space in the shelter or rescue for another dog. Due to their extreme popularity, you can frequently find purebred German Shepherds at many local shelters. Purebred puppies are also frequently available during the peak of puppy season. There are also a variety of German Shepherd rescue groups throughout the country , and many of these groups can arrange for the transportation of your newly adopted dog through a network of volunteers. Visiting with the German Shepherd you are interested in will allow you to see if there are any concerning behaviors, and oftentimes many shelters and rescue groups have a full history of the dog and insight into their behaviors and health. While some rescue Shepherds may require a little bit of initial work, their intelligence, trainability, and need for affection usually mean they are quick to learn and adapt to their new home and lifestyle. Getting A German Shepherd From A Breeder If you opt to go the breeder route to get your German Shepherd, make sure you are very thorough in your research when choosing which breeder to get your pup from. As we discussed above, the popularity of the German Shepherd has led to a lot of poor breeding practices. Backyard breeders and those who primarily post their puppies through social media and sales sites should be avoided. Similarly, any breeder who does not allow you to come and visit the parents of the puppies or who does not want you to see where the puppies are being raised is another red flag. Responsible breeders will have contracts that go with their puppies, and they should also be providing you with the genetic test results that prove their dogs are healthy and free of any genetic defects like degenerative myelopathy. Female German Shepherds should also get breaks in between litters and there should not be back-to-back breedings so she is allowed time to recover from each litter. Unethical breeders care little for the health of their German Shepherds and many will breed their dogs constantly resulting in strain on the mother and unhealthy puppies. Good places to start your research for ethical and responsible German Shepherds include German Shepherd breed clubs , local dog clubs, the AKC website, and through word of mouth with other German Shepherd lovers. Closing Thoughts German Shepherds are a wonderful breed of dog, but they might not be the dog for everyone. Carefully considering what a German Shepherd requires and how those needs fit into your own lifestyle is part of responsible pet ownership. If you like the look but not the breed, consider finding a dog that looks similar to a German Shepherd instead. Researching where and how you will get your new pup is the next step, whether you are opting to go through a responsible breeder or adopting from a shelter or rescue. My 2 German Shepherds and 1 Siberian Husky mix keep my busy, along with my 8 cats I am also a crazy cat lady and my axolotl Fin Diesel he's all about family. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

This aggression can stem from fear or insecurities. These behavioral issues can sometimes make our French bulldogs cease to be sources of amusement and begin to look like an issue that needs resolving. It is not unusual for your French bulldog to find a couple of things valuable. And it can be anything, from food to a spot on the couch, to your favorite hoodie. But it starts to become an issue when your Frenchie begins to growl, lunge, stiffen or bite whenever you go near these things of apparently high value. It can be annoying and frustrating, but you would have to do away with the frustration to handle the situation effectively. Here are some tips on how to discover and discourage this behavioral issue. What Is Resource Guarding? Resource guarding is when a dog tries to defend and protect any valuable resource like food or a toy. In mild cases, your Frenchie may only stiffen up at your approach, give you a look or simply turn his head, but in severe cases, your French bulldog might give you whale eyes, lift his lips, bare his teeth, growl or even bite. This can be very chilling and honestly quite alarming. Resource guarding can also happen if there are other pets around. Sometimes, your dog may resource guard you against the other pets. Resource guarding can also be called "possessive aggression," and the "cuteness" wanes very fast. Until a dog starts exhibiting signs of resource guarding, one may never know for sure if they are capable of it. Resource guarding is not confined to any particular breed of dog, neither is it limited to any sequence of occurrences. It all depends on the individual dog. Resource guarding poses such a problem because most dogs who behave in this manner do not differentiate between who is coming to take their valuables and those merely walking by. To them, the only thing that matters is what they think might be a threat. Many owners have often wondered why their dog seems to eat faster or guides his toy when they approach. It can be a wonder, but any dog resource guiding isn't mainly focused. They are just responding to the trigger and not the actual action. If you have kids, you especially cannot overlook or ignore this behavior. Resource guarding plays a considerable part in the statistics of reasons why dogs bite children. Your Frenchie may feel very sorry and remorseful, but the harm has already been done. It helps them to survive on the limited means they have to hunt for. For a domesticated dog, however, it is not a great instinct. Resource guarding often starts long before we begin to see these visible signs. To prevent accidents from occurring, you should keenly observe your dog for anything that may seem amiss. This would help you to nip it in the bud before it progresses to the apparent signs of growling, lunging, biting, and being generally terrifying. You should lookout for some of the more subtle signs if your dog freezes when you approach "my precious," if he moves the item farther, if he braces himself over the thing, if he generally seems to watch you intently. You should pick up on it and begin to discourage it. Sometimes, we need to reassure our Frenchies that there are more than enough resources available to them. We need to institute an understanding that removing an item will most often result in giving him something equal or better than what he had. Anytime your Frenchie gives up something willingly, or in obedience, it needs to be rewarded so that resource guarding does not become an issue. When our canines begin to resource guard, the first human instinct might be to punish the attitude out of them. This only results in more resource guarding. That is why it would be better to speak to a professional trainer and get their thoughts on the next step. But below are some helpful tips. How To Handle Resource Guarding? What Not To Do There are some knee-jerk reactions to resource guarding that just do not help. And while it is understandably frightening and embarrassing, the goal is to discourage such behavior, not make it worse. If your Frenchie realizes that his growls of discomfort at your approach will only result in some sort of punishment and the loss of his valuable item, the next time you approach, he is more likely to skip the growl and go straight to biting. It is pretty similar to our reactions as humans. If you keep reaching for my stuff and you ignore my warnings, you've got a smack coming your way, buddy. The point is, you shouldn't take away the vital signs your dog uses in communication with you. Your Frenchie can't explain to you that this is your last warning; growling is all they have, don't take it away. Some might not mind, but others mind the disturbances very much. Sometimes, you might want to form a habit of taking away your Frenchie's food or chews to show them that you are their lord and savior. This may work on some French bulldogs, but it generally breeds resource guarding. This is because constantly taking away their stuff will only annoy your dog and teach them that you are here to take away when they see you. This is not the impression to form in your Frenchie. There are other ways to be firm and put your feet down; you should habitually do it with their food and toys. This tip, however, will only work for mild cases of resource guarding. What To Do The best thing is to start training and socialization early to prevent resource guarding against developing. But if you rescued an adult dog from a shelter or inherited one from a family member, this point is moot. You can handle resource guarding in your Frenchie by desensitizing him to your presence. This usually takes time, involves a lot of steps, and requires a lot of patience. Suppose you cannot afford to take much time; you should speak to a dog behaviorist about your options. If your Frenchie suddenly develops resource guarding, you should visit the vet. A change in behavior or sudden aggressive behavior may be signs of an underlying health condition. You must handle the situation in the right way, don't ignore it. Face it heads on along with your vet and animal behaviorist. Reach Out To Us To get more information on caring for your canine buddy, reach out to us today. Sign up for our Frenchie Blog. Leave a comment. Friday 25th of August Great Article eric Saturday 15th of April my recent rescue of a 3 year old supposed puppymill frenchie momma. I will probably have more questions later. It's not easy to take on the responsibility of a dog with behavioral quirks, but with some effort, you can help her become a happy and well-adjusted pet. Here are a few tips to get you started: Socialize her as much as possible: She might not have been socialized as much as she could've — ideally this is done when they're puppies, but you can still get behavior improvements in adult Frenchies through socializing. My Frenchie used to be scared of new people and always would bark at them.Supervise playtime: It's important to keep a close eye on interactions between the Frenchie and your pug, especially when toys are involved. If the Frenchie shows signs of aggression, such as growling or snarling, immediately remove the toy and redirect her attention to a different activity. Introduce new experiences gradually: If the Frenchie is not used to being around children, it's important to introduce her to your grandchild in a slow and controlled manner. Start by having the child sit quietly while you hold the Frenchie on a leash. If the Frenchie shows interest but no signs of aggression, you can gradually increase the amount of time they spend together. Seek professional help if needed: If the Frenchie's behavioral issues persist despite your efforts, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide tailored advice and training techniques to help the Frenchie overcome her fears and insecurities. Remember, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Frenchie momma become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family. Best of luck! My biggest problem is Squirrels. We live on 2 acres and yes lots of squirrels. I am trying to figure out how to keep him from just taking off full speed after them. I even walk him on a leash no pull harness it terrifies me when takes off while being on a leash, he is very strong. I started making him stop walking before he takes off, before we start walking again. Our yard is fenced however he started running to fence or tree trying to climb it. I want him to have free time to run and play. It seems like you're on the right track with the no-pull harness, but they definitely aren't an easy fix to a problem like this. My Frenchie is the same way, she likes to chase squirrels, bunnies, and other animals in our backyard. She's actually got a few bunnies — I don't think the squirrel toy we have helps lol. Here are a few suggestions for your situation: Use a deterrent: Consider using a deterrent such as a motion-activated sprinkler or ultrasonic device to discourage squirrels from entering your yard in the first place. Impulse control training: Practice impulse control training by making your dog stop and refocus his attention before taking off after squirrels. Positive reinforcement training: Train your dog with positive reinforcement, teaching him a "leave it" command to ignore squirrels and focus on you instead. Avoid punishment: Avoid punishing your dog for chasing squirrels as this can lead to fear or anxiety around them. Instead, focus on redirecting his attention to more appropriate behaviors. Physical and mental stimulation: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation through regular walks, interactive toys, and training sessions to help reduce your dog's desire to chase squirrels. Long leash: Consider using a long leash to give your dog more freedom to move around the yard while still having control over him. Safe and secure outdoor space: Create a safe and secure outdoor space for your dog, such as a fenced area or an enclosed playpen, where he can run and play without chasing squirrels. Professional guidance: Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for additional guidance and support. It's important to remember that training takes time and patience, so don't get discouraged if progress is slow. With consistent training and reinforcement, your dog can learn to control his impulse to chase squirrels and enjoy his free time in the yard without the need for a leash. Thanks for your comment. We'll try to help you to the best of our abilities. We have tried turning our backs to her but that was not a success. Do you have any helpful tips? We need help! Here are some tips to help with your Frenchie's biting and jumping: Teach "off" or "down" command: When your Frenchie starts to jump or bite, firmly and calmly say "off" or "down" and redirect her attention to a toy or treat. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Frenchie with a treat or praise when she listens and stops biting or jumping. Consistency is key in reinforcing good behavior. Provide plenty of exercise: Make sure your Frenchie gets enough exercise and playtime to help reduce her energy and prevent her from getting too excited and jumping or biting. Practice good playtime: Encourage your Frenchie to play with toys and not with people's feet or ankles. Provide plenty of chew toys and interactive toys to keep her engaged and occupied. Consider professional training: If these tips don't seem to work, you may want to consider professional training for your Frenchie to help modify her behavior and learn more positive ways to interact with people. I hope these tips help, and good luck with your Frenchie! FrenchieWiki Community. YouTube 8 Easy Ways to Control a French Bulldog's Aggressive Behavior If you find that your dog is constantly growling, snapping, or trying to bite at other people or other dogs, it is evident that your dog has a pretty serious behavior problem. When dogs become aggressive, it is one of the biggest reasons why dog owners consult professionals for help. Most of the time, they consult a dog trainer or some type of dog behaviorist. Most of the time, it's not just for dogs that are larger in size either. Dogs that are more of a dangerous breed are more likely to express aggressive behavior as well. However, any dog of any size and breed is capable of being aggressive. It can be a pretty difficult experience to handle, especially if you have a dog that is usually very mellow and kind and suddenly starts to bark or growl or display very aggressive behavior. It might even bite someone that it has known for a while even though it wouldn't normally do such a thing. It can be pretty hard to know what to do when your dog starts to show this type of behavior, especially since there is a chance that things will get out of hand. Even though your dog's aggressive behavior cannot be easily swept away overnight, there are lots of things that you can do to control this type of behavior and help your dog behave better. If you are concerned about your french bulldog acting aggressive, here in this article we will go over the steps that you can take to control it. Here are some ways that you can fix it. Usually, when your french bulldog is acting aggressive it means that the dog is either preparing for an attack or trying to defend itself against a potential attack. Behavior like this usually involves the dog becoming very stiff and uptight. It will also start to growl, snarl, show its fangs and might even start to lunge or bite at the thing that is trying to attack it. When you see this behavior, the first thing you should try to do is figure out what it is that is causing your dog to be so alarmed in the first place. If someone is trying to approach your dog while it is eating on a bone or chewing on something it likes, it will probably growl at them. Most dogs will also act aggressively towards people that they don't know and children as well. Sometimes when the dog is acting aggressive, it is not always toward a person. Most dogs will actually become hostile towards other dogs and other types of animals. Some of them only act this way towards only certain types of animals. Perhaps it only acts hostile or aggressive towards cats, certain types of birds, or even certain objects like cars or broomsticks and sports balls. What you need to remember is that until you know the reason why the dog is being aggressive, you won't be able to come up with a proper plan to dispel the hostility. There are many types of aggression that a dog can have. Here are some examples: 1- Territorial Aggressive Behavior This means that the dog is being aggressive because it is trying to defend either you, the home or something it possesses from a possible threat or intruder. This is especially evident in mother dogs. They will be very protective of their pups and even act aggressively towards anyone or anything that approaches them. For example, food, dog toys, any type of bone or anything other things that it is interested in. But it will proceed to attack if it is being cornered. The dog will attack something that is causing the fear in order to defend itself, before attempting to get out of the situation. Dogs that do this will usually give off signs that they really want to avoid drama before they actually attack, such as looking the other way or moving backward. If your french bulldog has not been trained properly around other animals it is more likely to act aggressively towards other beings in social situations. When it is being restricted this way, it will show its frustration. Sometimes the dog might also become overly excited when it is going on a walk or doing something else and will bite. This can also happen if the dog isn't able to get to the animal that it wants to attack so it will become aggressive towards other animals that are nearby. According to this article , it is true that aggression is dangerous for both the dog and other beings in the environment. According to Science Direct , this is most common with intact animals, but this situation can be taken care of if the dogs get spayed and neutered. Usually, when it is chasing an animal it will become aggressive because it sees the animal as a threat. This is important to keep in mind because it can happen with children as well. Dogs that often show predatory aggression may end up biting the kid even if it is an innocent game. How to Stop Your French Bulldog's Aggression When your french bulldog is being aggressive, try to keep a record of everything that led up to it being hostile. This will be very helpful for you when you are trying to figure out the next step. You won't be able to come up with an effective resolution is you find out the reasoning or cause for this behavior. According to Science Direct , you can also try to get a behavioral test done in order to get more information about the dog's aggressive behavior. This behavior is just one piece of the whole problem. There are many ways that you can take control of this and help your french bulldog react in a more positive manner. However, remember that this is going to take time and dedication. You might also have to consult a professional after a while as well. To get more information on how you can take action against aggressive behavior, check out this video for more. Here you can learn steps to take control of the environment. Some of the health problems in dogs such as brain problems, hypothyroidism, and very painful wounds can result in this type of behavior. Try getting in touch with your veterinarian to see what could be the problem. You may be introduced to a variety of medications or treatments but this is what will improve the situation. This is a serious problem that your dog is facing and is most likely something that owners cannot fix on their own. A professional will get things straightened out and help you find out what is causing this problem and how you can prevent it in the future. You can probably get referrals from your veterinarian. This article suggests that behavior rehabilitation might also be something that you can go over with a professional in order to help the dog behave. Most of the time, you can try to carry out positive reinforcement in an effort to introduce the dog to a new way of behaving. For example, if your french bulldog is usually pretty uptight or hostile toward strangers, try distancing yourself from anybody that your dog is not familiar with. Make sure that are far enough away so that the dog isn't ready to start growling. Once you see that this is working, start giving the dog treats and slowly get closer and closer to the person until there is no hostility. Remember to continue to be positive to the dog and let it know that this the right thing to do. Once this happens, it will start to realize that unfamiliar people will help it get treats and it will slowly become less and less aggressive toward strangers. You can use this same method in any situation. However, this can usually backfire and make the situation much worse. If you become aggressive in an effort to eliminate the dog's aggression, it might feel like it needs to defend itself and might even attempt to attack you. Avoid hitting the dog, yelling at it, or doing anything else that triggers aggressive behavior. Doing this can also make your dog want to attack or bite other people that are around, even though they didn't do anything. For example. If your dog is growling at other people in the area it is trying to say that they are making it uncomfortable. At this point, you might need to look into getting your dog medication in order to help the problem. One of the biggest things you have to keep in mind is that if a dog is constantly under some sort of stress or fear or anxiety, it won't be able to properly learn anything that you are trying to teach it. If your french bulldog is always being hostile around children, you might have to make pretty big changes if you have kids. Or you might have to come up with a way to find a new home or a new area for the dog so that only adults are ever around it. This study confirmed that certain things in the dog's environment can contribute to its fear, aggression, stress, and many other things that can result in bad behavior. You should instead try to bring new things to the dog that it might like even more. New toys, new bones, and other things. If it is holding it, playing with it or guarding it, you can probably get the dog to drop that item and give it a new item in exchange. Once the dog has stopped guarding the items and gets the new one, you can continue using this method time and time again. Once this routine has been effective for a while, the dog might begin to realize that there is no need to be so aggressive in an effort to keep valuable items in its possession. This will prevent the dog from taking them while you're not paying attention. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Proper socialization and early exposure of French bulldog puppies to various people, animals, and experiences is essential to avoid unwanted behaviors like aggression in the future. However, when it comes to character and temperament, not every two Frenchies are the same. This brings us to an important point: Every French bulldog is an individual. Like any other dog breed, French bulldogs can be territorial and become aggressive to other dogs unless the dog owner nips the unwanted behaviors in the bud. He may enjoy rough play, which can provoke fights with other dogs. A fearful French bulldog can also bark and attack stranger dogs of the same sex, especially those larger than themselves, because he will feel threatened. He can lunge at other dogs when they come near his toys or if you give the other dog more attention. Why is my French bulldog so aggressive to other dogs? Dogs communicate with each other — and with us — in a thousand ways. They use body language and also sounds — barking, growling, squeaking. Sometimes a game between two dogs looks as if they are aggressive towards each other, but they are just playing. Sometimes it might feel like your French bulldog gets aggressive to exert dominance over other dogs or you. Your French Bulldog might get unusually aggressive to other dogs because it is simply afraid of them. Interestingly, dog owners can also induce fear of other dogs in their pets, for example, by always picking up your Frenchie whenever another pet approaches. Or jerking the collar when your French bulldog even looked in the direction of another dog. What did they teach this way? That other dogs are dangerous and best avoided. And if that other dog approaches, and there is no way to escape, your dog must scare away the intruder by attacking. Pain Sudden aggression can often be linked to pain or disease. Your French bulldog might be hurting, or he can feel irritated due to chronic illness. Aggression due to pain or illness often comes out of nowhere. If your friendly Frenchie has suddenly displayed a drastic change in temperament and turned aggressive to his fur friends, it warrants a visit to a vet. Defense Defensive aggression relates to guarding resources such as toys or food or protecting the property. French Bulldogs, in particular, are pretty alert pets, and they often assume the role of family guardian and a watchdog. An adult dog will react to a door opening or a noise in the stairwell. They can also throw themselves at the window when they see another dog passing by. Observe your Frenchie closely to identify what triggers a fear or self-defense response. Try to avoid exposing him to those triggers. The sooner we begin to teach a French Bulldog correct reaction, the greater the chance of getting rid of aggressiveness in the future. Step 1: Visit a vet Before jumping into dog obedience training , rule out any potential health problems your French bulldog might be dealing with. If your French bulldog feels uncomfortable when other dogs approach him on the street, lead him the other way. If your bulldog gets aggressive when he sees other dogs outside the window, decrease his vision by using curtains. Step 3: Control your emotions You should stay calm when teaching your Frenchie proper manners toward other dogs. Never strain his leash, or show signs of irritation or nervousness. Also, ensure you are always prepared to reward your French bulldog with a favorite treat. Every French bulldog is an individual. Like any other dog breed, French bulldogs can become aggressive to other dogs unless the dog owner nips the unwanted behaviors in the bud. Your goal is to focus all his attention on yourself. Your dog should look directly into your eyes. You can teach this behavior by using a treat held directly in front of your eyes or a clicker. Initially, work on the command at home and then in increasingly distracting places: in the yard, park, and street. In case of a positive response from your French bulldog, you can gradually reduce the distance between dogs. In this stage, your goal is to teach your Frenchie to completely ignore other dogs upon your command. The dogs we want to introduce your French bulldog to must be well-socialized and fully indifferent to barking, growling, and any form of aggression from other animals. This is absolutely crucial — otherwise, you can lose all the work done. The contact with another pup must occur in a neutral, calm area without any stimuli. Make your Frenchie feel as comfortable as possible, so you should not under any circumstances tighten the leash, get nervous, shout or show negative emotions. Keep the first few meetings short — just enough time so the dogs could sniff each other. If your French bulldog behaves well, reward and praise him generously to associate the contact with another pet with something positive. If the encounter gets tense, never pull on a leash and shout. Instead, diver your French bulldog with a treat, favorite toy, or a learned command. Training your French bulldog to unlearn aggressive behaviors toward other dogs requires a lot of patience and consistency. Nevertheless, it is definitely possible. Young French bulldogs can display an excessive amount of energy and hyperactivity. This can result in all sorts of unwanted behavior: chewing on furniture, jumping on strangers, or baring teeth at the sight of other dogs. The hyperactive stage in French bulldogs can last up to the age of 4 or even longer. However, with proper socialization with people and other animals, as well as with dedicated training and sufficient exercise, your French will eventually calm down. Summary French bulldogs are gentle and playful animals that usually get along well with other dogs. A French bulldog who has been poorly socialized or given leeway when displaying territorialism or other unwanted behaviors in the early years can become aggressive to other dogs. A sudden outburst of aggression towards dogs or other animals can also be connected to pain or chronic disease. Sometimes, the process may even take several months. Post Views: 3, Any dog may become threatening. Aggression can happen if a dog feels trapped in a place without any way of escape or if it feels that your intentions towards them are also one of aggression. Most dogs have aggressive behavior only if they feel they are in jeopardy, unable to flee, and have a feeling it needs to protect themselves. Listed below are some common fears your dog may experience. Talk to your vet about the appropriate course of action. Most likely, a rescue dog will require obedience training with a trainer specializing in training abused dogs. Little French Dog participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Illness and Injury can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Several medical conditions can cause your dog to become violent. WheAg that has not shown any signs of aggression unexpectedly starts to growl, snap or bite, which would be triggered by injury or sickness. Your unexpectedly aggressive dog might have an illness or injury that causes significant discomfort and anxiety. Pain is the most frequent cause of dog aggression. Several potential causes of pain involve inflammation, bone fracture, internal injuries, multiple tumors, and puncture wounds. Brain diseases, tumors, and neurological shifts in older dogs can contribute to the development of aggression. Possessiveness can cause your French Bulldog to have aggression. Possession aggression or property protection happens if a dog possesses food , toys, bed, yard, or other items of interest. Dogs that demonstrate possession hostility may snarl if someone comes to their food bowl or gets too close when playing with their favorite toy. Aggression can differ between dogs and objects; it feels like it needs protection. It all depends on the level of value the dog has placed on its items. Your dog may not mind, for example, if you pat it while it is enjoying its toy, but it could turn and bite at you if you do the same thing while they are eating. Establishing Dominance can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Dogs often show aggression to determine dominance. Usually, this applies more to other dogs, but this can happen to people also. Growing, snapping, or biting happens whenever they think their role is threatened. Regrettably, people sometimes confuse the source of dog aggressiveness as dominant behavior when there might be another cause. Be diligent not to confuse the aggression in your dog. Therefore, efforts at corrective action may potentially make the problem worse. Frustration can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Aggressive behavior caused by frustration is redirected to violence or barrier anger. This agitation is also seen in dogs who spend lots of time tied up, held back on a chain or rope. A dog chained in a backyard may spend a day tugging to get to another dog living across the road or in an adjacent yard. A dog restrained all day usually barks and becomes more fiercely as agitation grows. The dog could transfer their frustration and snap at you when you approach. Genetics can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Reckless breeding is yet another major cause of aggression. This characteristic is partly inherited, and if you breed two dangerous dogs, their descendants will more than likely show aggressive behavior at a particular stage. Always buy from reputable breeders who can show you the parents and their temperament. French bulldogs physically harming other pets or animals are uncommon, which can be avoided if you bring both pets at a reasonably young age, such that they develop together. French Bulldogs are not known to bite people. Do Frenchies like kids, cats or other dogs? General French Bulldog Temperament These little dogs are loyal, loving, laid back and affectionate. They will enjoy curling up on their owners lap, and will be happiest when they are together with you. Frenchies are also intelligent and eager to please. They can take well to training, especially positive, reward-based methods. But, there are times when these little dogs can show less-lovable traits. Every dog has teeth, and therefore the ability and potential to bite if they feel threatened or backed into a corner. But these behaviors in a dog that is under a year old are almost always a result of playful intensions. The best thing to do to avoid these situations is to disengage, put them somewhere safe and take a time out. If your Frenchie is biting, growling, and snarling, but they are still a very young puppy, they may just be exuberantly playing. But over 18 months old and you may have an aggressive dog on your hands. The most common cause of biting or growling in this breed is anxiety. Fearful dogs may try to hide, or run away before displaying any aggressive behaviors. However, a few Frenchies can some guarding instincts. They feel uncomfortable with visitors entering their home, and might even try to protect or defend the property and their family. Barking, raising a lip, snarling and snapping at your guests is a sign that your dog is not happy with the intrusion. Resource guarding is another potential cause of aggression in dogs, and one that owners can accidentally make an awful lot worse. We used to be advised that removing the food bowl repeatedly would teach our dogs to share their dinner, but we know better now. The right thing to do is to add more food as they eat, not snatch away something they value and were enjoying. Making them nervous that they might not get to hold onto this prize. French Bulldog Socialization Well socialized dogs are less likely to react with fear-based aggression when they are older. Make it your mission from 8 to 16 weeks old to take your dog as many places as possible. All those you will want to bring them to when they are older. Train stations, bus stops, the school gates. They all help to teach your pup that everywhere you go is normal, and everything they experience is safe. Invite lots of different visitors over to your home, of a variety of ages. Make sure everyone that arrives is given a handful of kibble to offer your puppy. Make guests something to celebrate, not to fear. Kids and French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are popular family dogs partially because they often get on well with the kids that they live with. This can lead to aggressive reactions, such as growling or biting, if your pup gets hurt. And potentially a lifetime reluctance to spending time with younger people. Do Frenchies Like Other Pets? In my experience, this is a breed that does best alone most of the time. People tend to have the best luck in this respect if they introduce new canine family members slowly, and carefully. Frenchies are likely to be okay with cats that they grow up with. However, they may not do well with cats outside the home, even if they live with one. Overall, the French bulldog temperament is calm, cool, and collected, making Frenchies good family dogs that love to be around their people and are happiest when they give and receive affection. An aggressive dog often becomes so due to a lack of dog training or less-than-ideal breeding situations, like coming from a puppy mill. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? Are male French Bulldogs aggressive? What aggressive behavior might the Frenchie dog have? Is the French Bulldog temperament right for my family? Can dog training curb aggressive behavior in a Frenchie puppy or adult? Understanding the French Bulldog personality and signs of aggression can lead to a better understanding of this bulldog breed. As a rule, French bulldog aggression is rare, but it still can happen. French bulldogs are, by nature, a stubborn breed. Their stubbornness can sometimes lead to training difficulties, manifesting into disobedience and other undesired traits and behaviors. Frenchies can also become very anxious when separated from their loved ones, even if only for a few minutes. When a dog is overly anxious, they can become more susceptible to aggressive behaviors, even toward those they love. Here are some common signs of aggression to be on the lookout for with your Frenchie: 1. However, both female and male dogs of the breed can be very stubborn, making them seem unruly. Instead, Frenchies just like doing things their own way. As a French bulldog owner, you might find that your pup is challenging to train because of their stubborn nature. How does this relate to aggression? Aggressive tendencies often come from a lack of training or an inability to train properly. As a puppy, your Frenchie will learn basic obedience and socialization with a trainer. These tasks are crucial to raising a well-behaved and well-mannered dog that enjoys being around other animals and people. Without this fundamental training, your older dog may feel timid or aggravated around others, leading to potential aggression. The best thing you can do for your Frenchie and your family is to ensure that your dog gets proper training as a puppy. Also, work on socializing your pup frequently during the first three months of its life to help them get used to being around people and animals. Growling Growling at other pets or people in the family can be a sure sign that your dog might be on the verge of becoming aggressive. More often, it shows that your dog is scared, angry, or maybe even in pain. This is known as positive reinforcement, and it rewards your pup for positive behaviors rather than scolding it for negative behaviors. A vet visit can rule out any physical ailments that could be causing your dog pain. Professional training can help with people and animal aggression and other fears your dog might have. For example, if your Frenchie begins growling when a child interrupts it from a nap and continues to play with the dog, the next step might be to snap. Because the causes are usually the same, the steps needed to curb the behavior are similar. Giving your dog plenty of chew toys to play with and avoiding rough play may also teach better mouth habits. Common signs that your dog could lash out include: Arching its back Stiffening its tail or tucking it between its legs Baring teeth Hair sticking up on the back of the neck Tensing its body Laying ears back or standing them up tall Staring at a target If you notice any combination of these signs in your French bulldog, you should work on getting its attention and removing your pup from the situation as quickly and smoothly as possible. You need to stay calm in this situation, or your dog could pick up on your anxiety and attempt to attack its target. Remember to reward your Frenchie when its attention goes back to you and it complies with your guidance. Jealousy Does your Frenchie puppy or adult seem agitated when you give another pet or person attention first? Jealousy can run rampant in French Bulldogs, a breed that loves being the center of your attention. While this jealous streak might seem cute in puppies, it can easily give way to aggressive behaviors as your dog ages and thinks this behavior is acceptable. Instead, walk away and wait to reward your dog after it calms down. Strong Demand for Attention and Affection A significant part of the Frenchie temperament is the desire for attention. These small dogs crave affection, even though they like it at their own pace! In contrast, others might desire attention so much that they are willing to behave aggressively to get it. For example, your dog might learn to sit on a special mat or blanket when it wants to play rather than scratching at your feet for attention. Excessive Barking Barking excessively can be a sign of dog aggression, especially if a dog is territorial or has separation anxiety. These problems stem from fear, and a fearful dog can be on edge and unpredictable, so aggression is always something to watch for. Does your pup bark when it sees another dog near its yard? Does barking happen when you leave for the day and during crate training? Does your Frenchie tend to bark more to get attention? Once you figure out the cause, you can work on positive reinforcement training to reward your pup for participating in good behaviors, like sitting and waiting when someone walks by with a dog, instead of barking. Like other signs of aggression, barking can also come from pain. Desire for Dominance French bulldogs sometimes have a desire to be the dominant one in the pack. This usually happens with male dogs, but female dogs can have the personality trait too. You might not know whether your dog craves dominance until you have a new pet in the home or you send your Frenchie on a playdate with other dogs. Adequate training and socialization during puppyhood are critical in preventing a strong need for dominance that could develop into more aggressive behaviors down the road. Fear or Anxiety Anxiety, especially separation anxiety, is prevalent in the French bulldog. They might soil their crate, scratch or chew furniture, and display other negative behaviors when you leave home. However, the Royal Frenchel stands out in many ways from the French Bulldog, and their benefits may give you a different outlook on what dog breed is best for your family. Each pet owner that meets the breed falls in love with their larger-than-life personalities, even as a tiny puppy. Frenchies exhibit many of the same characteristics, but their stubbornness can often get in the way of becoming an obedient member of the family. In contrast, the Royal Frenchel can be an incredible service dog. Their intuition, combined with their trainable personalities, make them one of the best dog breeds for people looking to add a service or therapy dog to their family. The Royal Frenchel is rather laid back and happy-go-lucky. Another area where Royal Frenchels stand out is with their health. French bulldog health problems are many; allergies, ear infections, breathing problems, and spinal disorders are just a few issues that plague the breed. However, Royal Frenchels have a 10 times lower percentage of health problems as a breed than the French Bulldog. What does that mean for you? You may also spend less time and money on veterinary trips, medicines, and treatments for health problems. Improper socialization, training, and breeding can also cause Frenchie aggression. The Royal Frenchel comes from a reputable breeder devoted to giving each Royal Frenchel family the tools they need to transition their new dog into their family. That includes tips and resources for proper socialization with children, adults, and other animals to prevent fears and anxiety that cause aggressive behaviors. We want to help you succeed with your new fuzzy family member.