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This comes at no extra cost to you. As a new Golden Retriever puppy owner, you may be wondering about when important puppy milestones happen, such as: When do they lose their puppy teeth? When do they stop growing? When do they finally stop biting? When do they sleep through the night? These puppy behavior stages and developmental milestones will differ from individual to individual, but this timeline can give you a general understanding of what to expect with your puppy. Day 1: Puppy is born You could also call this the best day ever. After carrying the pups for about 9 weeks , mom is ready to give birth! The average litter size for Golden Retrievers is 8. Their eyesight is very limited, and their soon-to-be-brown eyes are sometimes blue when they first open them. And as you know or will soon find out , they are very sharp. The puppy kibble is soaked in water, mashed up, and introduced to the pups. They work up to eating solid food about four times per day while still nursing from their mother. Because puppies need to complete weaning, most breeders wait until the puppies are 8 weeks to 12 weeks old before they send their pups home with their new owners. You can also start training them at this age the best way to stop bad habits is to not let them start! Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Download the Potty Training Cheat Sheet here! The biting phase is one of the toughest behavior stages for puppy owners. Golden Retriever puppies lose their baby teeth at around 4 months of age. Sometimes he would be chewing and then start to play with something on the floor. Most of the time when that would happen we would find a tooth laying there. This depends on the gender and your individual dog. And this is definitely a conversation to have with your vet, as spaying or neutering your Golden Retriever too young can have adverse health effects. Females are typically inches tall, while males are inches tall. It becomes their undercoat. At one and a half years old, Goldens have typically grown out their full coat. Related article:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.
It is suitable for the teeth It is good for the liver. It provides adequate nutrition. It is rich in PUFAs. It is enriched with colostrum. It has a high fibre content. It contains glucosamine for maintaining bone health. It has omega fatty acids. It is easy on the gut. It is uniquely formulated for puppies. It is suitable for weight-watching. It is enriched with DHA. It is suitable for digestion. It helps muscle growth Best overall product: There are many dog food options for German Shepherds available in the market, and each of them has a unique formula and offers exciting benefits. It gives your dog a complete and balanced meal with the right amounts of protein, fats and fibre. It takes care of adequate muscle and bone growth, is easy to digest, and is good for their teeth. Best value for money: For just Rs. It is also great for their coat and keeps it shiny and soft. It promotes muscle development and is easily digestible. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals. How To find the right fog food? We must give our pets proper nutrition with their food. A good diet is the best way to ensure a healthy dog. Dog foods for german shepherds must include the right quantity of proteins, fats and fibres. They should be a balanced meal to ensure good muscle growth, good gut health and a shiny coat. You must also ensure that the dog food provides adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to make up a sound immune system. Since most dog foods come with flavour options, you can choose the ones your dog likes best and make their meals enjoyable. You may be interested in Product. This high energy comes from their original purpose as sheep herding dogs, bred in Germany in by Max von Stephanitz. Stephanitz thought German Shepherds were everything a dog should be; intelligent, loyal, hard-working and beautiful. While no longer sheep herders, German Shepherds maintain high energy levels and muscle mass. Because of this, they are often used in police forces worldwide or as guard dogs. This breed requires proper nutrition, including protein, fats, and carbohydrates from healthy sources to maintain their health. Dog Nutrition for German Shepherds As large, active dogs, German Shepherds require lots of protein and carbohydrates to build muscle and maintain energy levels. For example, wild caught salmon dog food can provide all the protein your German Shepherd needs to maintain muscle mass. While many people give their dogs high-fat treats, other foods, such as cooked dog food , can provide the high-quality fats necessary to keep your German Shepherd healthy. These are easy to digest and provide the energy your dog needs to be playful throughout the day. Avoid foods with corn, wheat or soy as they are harder to digest and offer less nutritional value. German Shepherds suffer from various health risks, such as osteoarthritis and digestive problems. Like other dogs, they can also have an allergy to proteins , such as chicken. Try switching to healthy wet dog food if you typically use dry food. Best Food for German Shepherds with Allergies For German Shepherds with allergies, check the ingredients of all foods and treats before you buy them. If your dog cannot have one type of protein, try another, but make sure it is high-quality and ethically sourced, so your dog still receives all the benefits and nutrition it needs. Open Farm carries a variety of protein sources for your dog, such as beef, turkey, salmon, chicken, whitefish, lamb and venison. One way to help with this is to take advantage of the benefits of bone broth for dogs. Bone broth improves joint health and strengthens tendons and ligaments to help your German Shepherd remain mobile and healthy. Open Farm carries a variety of wet, dry and freeze dried dog food that meets the unique dietary needs of German Shepherds. Our food contains humanely sourced beef, lamb, chicken and fish, healthy fats from sources like coconut oil and whole grains like oats, barley, rice and millet to ensure the health of your German Shepherd for years to come. Shop our sustainable, high-quality dog food to give your dog the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy. Disclaimer: This article is meant only as an example meal with fully balanced nutrition, please reach out to our customer experience team if you have any questions about your pet's own unique circumstances! Share this post. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement.
Contact Us We have a beautiful litter of stunning chocolate labrador girl puppies available to only the best loving homes, born on 22nd July. Our dogs are championship show winners, and our puppies are bred from hip X rayed, eye tested parents of superb quality from long-established proven bloodlines, with wonderful temperaments. We would like potential Labrador owners to realise that it is a huge responsibility and long-term commitment purchasing a chocolate labrador puppy, which is going to mature into a large, strong dog requiring plenty of daily exercise. Homes where the puppy is to be left alone all day are unsuitable, as labradors require company, affection, house-training and exercise. It will be necessary to have a fully-fenced garden and, whilst our labradors are wonderful with small children, puppies should not be regarded as their toys and they must be very well cared and above all loved. Since then family life at Llanstinan has included a house full of Labradors, later to include blacks and yellows. The first litter was bred to give Lynda's 4 young children an insight into life with Labradors. All Llanstinan labrador puppies are insured, microchipped and have excellent pedigrees. They are sturdy chunky puppies with lovely heads and superb outgoing temperaments. They are always whelped in the house, are lavishly reared and are very well socialised with other animals and small children. Lots of relatives of the puppies are resident at Llanstinan, including mother, sometimes father, grandmother, and great grandmother, along with aunts and uncles who all welcome visitors giving a true labrador welcome. Puppies leave for their new homes after they have been checked by the Vet and micro-chipped. They leave with a full puppy pack which includes copies of both parents' health certificates, a 5 generation pedigree, contract of sale and a detailed diet sheet. A copy of Ann Britton's book 'Labrador Retriever' - understanding and caring for your breed, is also given to each new puppy owner. The author of this excellent book, Ann Britton has spent a lifetime with labradors. She judged bitches at Crufts , she is an international show judge and is a breeder of Champion labradors. She also has a weekly column in 'Our Dogs'. Her dogs, several which have Llanstinan breeding, can be seen on www. The children used to dress them up, sleep with them, play with them, and love them. Now the children are all grown up, their own children all have an endless passion for our gorgeous chocolate brown labrador puppies. Chocolate Lab puppy Gallery. We love all of our fur family of animals as our own. Each one is a precious life who we raised for the joy of contribution as "YOUR" lifetime family member for you and yours. Here at our unique ranch, we breed Top Show Quality English Style Labradors, American Quarter Horses, Arabian Horses and a menagerie of fairytale like small animals in a certified wildlife habitat and preserve, with 47 years of agriculture and breeding experience. Our life and our home is dedicated to these beings and making life long lasting friends with our community. We don't own our animals, Our animals own us! Our dogs are part of our family, No mass production. They get the best quality feed and natural nursing. They are gently held and cared for as infant babies would be. They are loved and socialized with people and other animals. We will provide you with our recommendations from many years experience. Reserve your labrador puppy with select look, color, gender, temperament and perfect match! A Furever Friend Our lab puppies have been adopted as high quality pets, as contribution for other breeding programs, for service and therapy, for agility, hunting and great companionship! They love to cuddle for a good movie snuggled on the couch and play during the day. They care, they have feelings and they know what you require from them. What would it be like to have one of these puppies? We like yogurt!!! Around the clock for the first 8 weeks of their lives, we assure they are properly eating, exercising, give them lots of love, kisses and begin socialization. Introducing them to unusual sounds, activities, animals, toys, obstacles, etc. At 8 weeks, they are ready to be adopted and go home with their forever families! The fun begins! Or do you prefer black lab puppies? We evaluate our english lab puppies which are best for show, breeding, pet, service and therapy. Investing in a healthy breed quality Labrador puppy ensures a long life of optimal health enjoying every moment of your time together. He's our sweet stocky beautiful block head boy and is available at STUD. Proven as an ultimate producer of show english lab puppies. Breeding for the betterment of the breed is our primary focus. Outstanding Pedigree Rain Forest. View our accreditations descriptions Good morning Bryce and Gina, I want to let you know how the chocolate chunk has been doing and send an updated picture! Moose is also excellent at sitting on command. Hope all is well with you and your family! Emily T. From the start you all were very caring and informative. You have prepared us well for our long journey ahead with our baby boy Oakley A. A Tucker. I want to thank you for always being there to answer all my questions and the pictures you would send our way, it always brought a smile to my face. It has been 3 days since my children A. It was worth a million to see there reactions and smiles, Oakley greeted them all happy and with so much love. On our drive back we actually were afraid we left him in San Antonio lol not once did he make a sound. He gives us so much love that its so easy to give it back. He only has had 2 accidents since arriving both our faults, and he has slept through out the whole night after the first day. The first day he just woke us up twice to go potty but went back to sleep. At the vet he got checked and they said he was perfect and amazing. They were so in love with him. The vet said he was so well taken care of and it showed, we did credit it all to welcome home labs. Today he started his obedience training lessons at home and the trainer was amazed to see such a well tempered labrador. She was actually speechless as she saw how well he obeyed commands already. So thank you again for giving us our newest family addition and we only hope we can give him as much love as you have given him and that he deserves. We will keep in touch. Thank you, Angel, Jolyn, A. This is a dream come true. I have always loved labs. I have done my research on the breed and I knew what I wanted. Welcome Home Labs has fulfilled that and then some. From the first day, it has been a pleasure getting to know you. You took the time to match me with a puppy that would fit with what I was looking for. You gave me an option. I promise to take good care of Monroe. She is already loved. I know she will be an awesome addition to my family. She will have a big fall with a few planned hunting trips for grouse at the shack, then Iowa for a pheasant hunt, and ending the fall with a duck hunt. These will be short trips, just to get her started. Aside from hunting, she is going to join Karney in being a family pet. I have a feeling my bed is going to get very crowded this year. I will send pictures to update you on her progress. I would recommend your kennel to anyone looking for a good experience and a beautiful Lab. Please, enjoy these cookies. A big thank you to your kids for loving on my little girl. I will let you know when we get back to International Falls. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. Life Span Did You Know? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds. The Chocolate Labrador Retriever is not a distinct dog breed from other Labs, but it is a separate coat color variation that is specifically bred for. Similar to the other standard coat colors of Labrador Retrievers, Chocolate Labs are energetic dogs that get along well in a family setting. As a Retriever, they also make great hunting dogs and have also been known to fill other working dog roles including service dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and more. They are even one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units. A point of interest is that all modern Chocolate Labrador Retrievers can be traced to three specific Black Labradors that lived during the s. Chocolate Labs are industrious little pups. They were bred for retrieval and will often sniff about for something to get into. They are also one of the most affectionate dog breeds and absolutely love being with their favorite humans. Properly socialized and well-trained, Labs are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are famously even-tempered and playful. This makes them fantastic dogs for a growing family, as they tend to be gentle and patient with little ones. They can have a high prey drive. They usually do well with small pets within the family that they have been raised with or socialized around, but likely will still have the urge to chase other animals while out and about. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. After all, strangers are just more people to give them attention and play with them. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers may be high-energy dogs, but they are also highly adaptable. They will thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can run freely. They can adapt well to apartment living as well as long as they get plenty of daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. Their natural urge to dig and bark when they are bored or agitated can be quelled with a little training and exercise. Although they can handle some alone time, Labs love to be with their families and thrive on attention from them, so they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Chocolate Labs also have a water-resistant double coat that makes them well-suited for most habitable climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat. Although they can handle some cold and will likely love to play in the snow, they are not a snow dog breed and may need to bundle up while out on walks in areas with harsher winters. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chocolate Labrador Retriever can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, hereditary myopathy, and heart disease. There is also a condition with a genetic link called exercise-induced collapse EIC , which can occur in young adult Labradors. Carriers of this can be identified by DNA tests and it is advised that breeders test for this and avoid practices that would produce the disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are incredible companions and are also one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Their energy can make them a handful at times, but their intelligence, adaptability, patience with people, and eagerness to please make them easy to train. Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds , so they pick up on things easily. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, a Chocolate Lab will do their best to respond as expected and will often exceed expectations. Chocolate Labs have a short, water-resistant coat that will shed year-round. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath are all that are needed to keep a Lab coat healthy and looking great. They may need baths more often if they are avid swimmers, go on a lot of outdoor adventures, and get dirty a lot. Floppy ears tend to trap dirt, moisture, and debris. Proper dental care for dogs is imperative to help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease or tooth decay later in life. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene chews. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds and need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but your Chocolate Labrador will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood and tend to maintain that puppy-like energy and maturity until they are years old. Swimming can be a great lower-impact activity and Labrador Retrievers are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. Between that, their water-resistant coat, and webbed toes, you may have trouble getting your Chocolate Lab out of the water. Fully-grown Chocolate Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Chocolate Labs generally live for years on average. Fourteen years later, the American Kennel Club did the same in .Featured Chocolate Labrador Retriever Article.
They should be fed, on average, 3 cups of food every day. Space out their feeding at appropriate intervals. But just like most aspects of the Frenchie Labrador, their activity level depends heavily on which parent breed they take after most. A Frenchie Labrador with more bulldog in them needs less activity per day — roughly minutes. However, if they favor their Labrador side more, they need approximately double that in daily activity and exercise. Your pup might just be too smart for their own good. When not properly stimulated, intelligent dogs can turn to undesirable habits such as unnecessary barking or chewing. Their short hair makes it easy to groom them as well. A big thing to note is that the Frenchie Labrador is not hypoallergenic. If you have allergies to dog hair and pet dander, this might not be the best pet for you. Other than their hair, Frenchie Labs may need special face cleaning—particularly if your pup has more French Bulldog in them. Your dog may have some skin fold in their face that will trap dirt, grime, and whatever they decide to get into. They do, however — like most designer dogs — take on inherited illnesses from the parent breeds. Fortunately for the Frenchie Labrador, most of their potential health issues can be prevented or mitigated through a properly balanced diet. Minor Conditions. Jo Parcels Jeannie There is nothing like the feeling of being loved unconditionally. Labradors are excellent family dogs. Labrador puppies are highly intelligent, good-natured, very willing and eager to please. Labradors are among the top choices for service dog work. Labs love to play, especially in water, never wanting to pass up the opportunity for a good swim. These lively dogs have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are wonderful with children as well as with other dogs. They crave human leadership and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs are easily trained. All of our mom's and dad's are Health checked by pre lim, background, or OFA certified! Take a look at our available puppies on our Facebook page: Come find your forever family member! Meant 2 Be Puppies are different because of all the love, attention, and care they receive from birth. Right from the start they know they are special. And when you bring this special addition to your home, you will see your puppy will instantly become a part of your loving family. The Labrador breed is the perfect breed for any family. Our puppies are bread and trained with families in mind. That's why we don't sell our puppies, we adopt them out to good qualified families. When you come to Meant 2 Be Puppies you can be sure you are getting the highest quality in Labrador puppies and a wonderful addition to your family. Contact us! We'd love to hear from you! Of course we have always shared this information with our clients. Recently one of our clients mentioned it would be good to put a link to the products on our website so they would be easy to fine. We have been using NuVet products for years. Just be sure to use the order code and receive their most current discount rates. Call us today at .The puppy in the above commercial is one of our precious pups! We have been raising French Bulldogs in Southern California for 12 years; before anybody knew what kind of breed the adorable Frenchies were. We fell in love with the silver blue French Bulldogs and we now specialize in the silver blue Frenchies. Our French Bulldogs are small with muscular type bodies from the shark lineage from Hungary and are adopted to proud families across the USA. Our Frenchies are top-of-the-line French Bulldogs with sweet personalities! Lab Puppies Health guarantee - Breeder commitment. Lab Puppies Parents, hips, eyes, elbows, or background checked. Lab Puppies Our pups are in a Calendar month of February! The first gem is the French Bulldog. It was originally developed from the English Bulldog. To be more precise, the Toy Versions of the English Bulldog. The breed was used entirely by lacemakers in England. Its popularity suffered numerous blows during 18th Century England. After that, it was transported to France. The breed was developed further there and became more popular. The Labrador Retriever is the second gem. It is one of the most heartwarming and friendly breeds. It was originally birthed in Newfoundland. Newfoundland is a region of Canada. The purpose of this breed was retrieving. Retrieving what? Numerous things, like fishnets and prey. Unfortunately, its population died down in its native area because of outrageous dog taxes. The breed survived and boomed in America. It has the shape of a Labrador and the face of a French Bulldog. The coat of the Frenchie Labrador borders on the slightly medium-length side. The Frenchie Labrador will have a slightly shortened muzzle and long ears. Its proportions can more than vouch for that previous statement. The height range of the male Frenchie Labrador is 17 to 18 inches. The female Frenchie Labrador will usually be 16 to 17 inches tall. The weight ranges are 40 to 50 lbs for males and 35 to 45 lbs for females. Consequently, it is only right for the Frenchie Labrador to have a long lifespan too. Commonly the Frenchie Labrador will have a healthy lifespan ranging between 9 and 15 years. The healthier your breed remains, the longer it will live. The normal range of the cost of the Frenchie Labrador is to dollars. You may have some difficulty finding markets with this breed. The price will change based on the health of the Frenchie Labrador and the pedigree of its parents. The Frenchie Labrador will get along with most breeds. Humans, it will never have a problem with. The Frenchie Labrador can safely be set around children. It will never harm them; instead, it may even babysit them. Training the Frenchie Labrador is a walk in the park. The Frenchie Labrador specializes in the trick department. The more it learns, the more it wants to entertain. It is, in simple words, a thirst for knowledge that keeps spiraling out of control in a good way. You may use a Dog Training Book for the training purpose. You will also have to use Dog Treats to train it properly. Caring for Frenchie Labrador As a human and companion, it is your job to take good care of the Frenchie Labrador. Good care means giving it a healthy environment and upbringing, so please pay attention to this section. This piece of information is vital in determining its nutritional needs. Normally the Frenchie Labrador will require about two to three cups of healthy Dog Food. You may use a choice of your own Dog Food. You will only have to brush its coat at most three times per week. You can brush it more often to regulate the natural oils produced by its skin. The Frenchie Labrador will also need to be bathed after every month or two months. You may bathe the Frenchie Labrador more often if the situation demands it. You are advised to trim its nails and brush its teeth. Brushing its teeth should be an activity repeated every day or two days. As long as you can tap into reserves of energy, it will be fine. You will have to make the workout sessions dynamic and interesting. We recommend using a healthy choice of mental and physical exercises. About 60 minutes each day for its exercise should be enough. If you do want more guidelines, then we recommend looking after it in its formative years. Please keep it safe from vigorous activity and ensure that it receives socialization and training from those years. You are also advised to keep its ear clean. The long ears of the Frenchie Labrador can become quite troublesome if not cleaned properly. Frenchie Labrador Health The main thing that we want to tell you is that the Frenchie Labrador does need attention and care. The health problems and weaknesses that the Frenchie Labrador faces are numerous. We recommend giving the Frenchie Labrador weekly thorough examinations. Otherwise, by the time the condition is diagnosed, it may already be too late. The smallest things can make the greatest difference. Accordingly, a diet is a definition of how healthy your buddy is meant to be. Breeds Similar to Frenchie Labrador.
Both of which conduct yearly inspections and verify my dogs are all well cared for. I have been breeding Golden Retrievers since .I hold a degree in Animal Science. I have worked several years in an active animal hospital. I administer most of my own vaccines, conduct progesterone testing with my own machine determines best timing of breeding through collection of blood sample , and I conduct my own ultrasound at home for confirmation of pregnancies. I conduct natural breeding with all my dogs. Delivery of puppies also occurs at my home naturally unless an emergency health issue dictates otherwise. I am very passionate about the care of my dogs and strive to have the healthiest and happiest puppies possible. If you would like to see more detailed information about Hilltop Golden Retriever, please continue to read on and click through all the tabs of this website. Hilltop Golden Retriever Location: If your still unsure of where South Westerlo is located, we are about 25 minutes northwest of Catskill and 35 minutes southwest of Albany capital of NY. We are closest to Albany International Airport if you are looking to fly. If you are looking for a direct flight, you might want to look into Newark but would require a car rental and some travel time on the road. If you are traveling from decent distance away and in search of a hotel. If your early for your puppy pickup appointment and looking to get something to eat, a few minutes away in Greenville you can find the Tasting Lab or the Tiny Diner to sit down at. If you want something quicker check out the hot dog stand in front of the Tiny Diner or the Dunkin Donuts just up the road off of .I worked several years as a veterinarian technician assistant in a very active animal hospital. Over the years I learned so much and gained a lot of experience that has helped me excel as a breeder. While I was attending college, I ended up meeting my husband. He also shared my passion in dogs. She was my dream come true and truly encouraged me to be the breeder I am today. I fell in love with a dark female puppy from the litter. Over time and seeing so many families pleased with our puppies we wanted to grow. We felt that a large property was a must for our dogs to exercise and play. We ended up selling our first home and purchasing the house where we reside now. Technically our mailing address is in Greenville however we are in fact in South Westerlo within the hills of Albany county. Both of our families are from the area, so the transition was very supportive and the location is very easy to travel from or to the New York State Thruway or from Interstate I.Soon after our move we have spent so much time with creating the best environment and care for our dogs. Throughout the year we get visited by the state and AKC to verify our dogs are in the best care possible. Everything was thought of during this build. The building consists of two floors. Fans are optional throughout the entire interior. We have additional propane heaters that will work with no electricity. The floors have built in drainage and are covered in grippy flecked epoxy. Our dogs have constant access to water and have comfortable Kuranda beds to lay on. We have designated areas for our older puppies after mom is done nursing them. These areas consist of very nice over-sized play areas. The walls are made out of washable white plastic, and we use g-flooring with fresh wood chips for the bedding. The puppies have plenty of toys and their own Kuranda bed s that they love to lay on or hide below it. Our outside run area consists of a fully covered roof, so our dogs are protected from the elements, with lighting and fans. The play area has over feet of beautiful black chain link fencing. The large play area also offers a doggy playground area where they have plenty of toys to tug and pull on. About our Dogs: We strive to provide the best and healthiest lines of Golden Retrievers. We spend endless hours in search and communication with multiple breeders from all over the United States. Checking pedigrees and clearances prior to committing with a new line. We have made some amazing relationships with some of the best breeders, all of which share the same common goal of breeding healthy AKC Golden Retrievers. We raise and train all of our puppies within our home. We work with commands, potty training, and socialization on many different platforms and various environments. Early on we are verifying their personality and traits are conclusive with a possible prospect for future breeding. As time goes on, we decide if they are a good candidate or not for breeding. If they are a good candidate additional health testing is scheduled per their age. We conduct several medical tests to verify healthy lines prior to breeding. The health tests set us apart from most breeders that claim their dogs are healthy per a veterinarian check or that claim that they conduct DNA genetic health testing but nothing else. One of the first health tests that we conduct and one of the most important tests on all our dogs, is DNA genetic testing. We have used Animal Genetics in the past but have been shifting towards using Embark. This test allows us to verify we have the best pairing of parents prior to breeding and that we are not passing on bad genes that could be avoidable issues in the future. After our dogs turn 1, they proceed to get OFA testing of their eyes and heart. A specialist either looks at their eyes or heart to verify they have no health conditions that could be passed to their offspring. If we are lucky enough that our young golden passes, we will move forward to the next health testing stage. The next health test that we typically conduct once our young golden is 1. While they are sedated to have these x-rays we usually also have Penn Hip testing done. Also, per our vet the Penn Hip is a better test to know the overall health of the hips as they test the elasticity and movement rather then judging based on an image. Last health test we do is done at the age of 2 years old. As the dogs age their bones calcify, a dog with failing elbow or hips younger then 2 could very well change to passing once they turn 2. Under each dog there is a link from K9 data. Unfortunately K9 data will not allow preliminary testing information in the link which is the OFA elbow and hip test results if the dog is under 2 years of age when the test is conducted. However we do list the preliminary test results under each dog. Once we have the official results K9 data will be updated to reflect their latest test results. We are constantly conducting health tests and updating K9 data as well as the webpage. Lots of factors could play into why a dog could fail their OFA elbows or hip tests. It may not necessarily be genetic but instead could be from the environment that they are raised in. Limiting their jumping heights is extremely important. Simply slipping on ice can cause unforeseen affects to their overall development. It is also highly recommended for additional joint supplements as they grow, we prefer the use of NuVet supplements see link on website tab for further information on NuVet products. Lack of vitamin C in their food is another considered attribute to not having passing scores. All of these factors are highly overseen during the raising of our potential breeding dogs. Unfortunately, sometimes our dogs do not pass all of their tests. We sometimes keep them, but we also have found amazing homes for them. We are even more particular in their home placement as we know their personalities and what would be the best fit. They will be spayed prior or be contracted to be spayed soon after being placed in their new homes. We are very focused on ensuring we know our breeding stock through both their individual health and their genealogy testing. Our dogs and puppies get a lot of socializing. Daily they are engaged with our other dogs, our young sons, our friends, and other family members. They all get a ton of love and attention. This ensures they keep up on their house manners and it also makes it incredibly easier when pregnant moms deliver within our home. Our dogs are not kept outdoors like you might see with other breeders. We also have them go into large fenced in play areas where they play in large groups with each other. We do not show our dogs or conduct any competitions with them. When I am not raising my children, I am constantly spending time with my dogs or interacting with potential customers. My husband works many hours in his law enforcement career to dedicate any additional time in competitions, trials, or shows. Once he retires and the children are older, we may pursue that however it is not our current focus. Some of the lighter goldens that we have also known as English Creams do have championship titles in their bloodlines as does our darker red field goldens. Any of our puppies with proper training could and would be amazing for shows or hunting trials as its in their bloodline. About our Puppies: I usually make the determination of puppies after 30 days of a breeding. I have my own ultrasound machine and can get a good determination of how many puppies are present. It does not give me an exact count. Only way to really narrow down the number of puppies is by an x-ray, around the day mark. I do not conduct my own x-rays and that would require a visit to the animal hospital. To reduce stress on mom and the puppies we do not do x-rays. I get a final count upon delivery keeping mom where she is most comfortable. Delivery of puppies take place in my home around the days after being bred, unless an emergency C-section requires otherwise. Typically, all our puppies are delivered naturally. Someone is always with the mother for the entire delivery. It is very strenuous but has the best outcome for both mom and pups. When all the puppies are born, we will post pictures on the Facebook page. We will then reach out to anyone on our waiting list. If by chance, there are any extra puppies we will make an announcement on Facebook after exhausting our wait list. Sometimes people back out and puppies do come up available at various times. During the initial few days into the few weeks mom and puppies are spending a lot of quality time together. We are keeping a close attention that everyone is gaining weight and seem to be progressing. The pups are handled daily by us. After about 2 weeks eyes and ears will begin to open. The fourth week they are starting to find their legs and moving around exploring. The fifth week if all are doing well, I begin the weaning process where mom is nursing less and less as I introduce kibble to their diet. We begin the deworming process and also begin the first vaccine. We do not travel with the puppies to an animal hospital. I feel it could be stressful for the puppies and creates an opportunity for the puppies to be exposed to other pet sicknesses. I have a traveling vet come and conduct full physicals on all of the puppies. You will receive a copy of her report in the puppy folder upon pickup date. We have outside play areas and toys for them to interact with. They will also be played with by children and handled by adults. They will have several toys to interact with. Obstacles will be in there play pens to learn jumping and crawling. Process Purchasing a Puppy: If you decide that you would like to move forward with getting a puppy, we recommend that you first look at the females and the males that we have. Sometimes the males could change if multiple females come into heat at the same time. We also have an additional tab where you can view planned future breeding so you can have a better idea of potential pairings. Next, I would like to have a phone interview so we can find out more about yourself and the home that a puppy of mine would be going to. In our discussion I would like to know which mother you were leaning towards and whether you prefer a male or female puppy. I can go over all additional questions that you may have including total costs. If both parties are fully satisfied, I will move forward with sending you over the contract. I sell all my puppies with limited AKC registration. Under certain circumstances I will offer full AKC registration for an additional charge. If you are wondering what the difference is between limited and full registration. Limited registration means you can never breed a puppy from me and it will be expected upon proper age that the dog is spayed. Full registration is only for breeders that want to purchase a puppy with intentions of breeding. I am not against giving another breeder full registration however it must be discussed prior, and all requirements must be met that I have. I do require the final payment to be in cash upon pickup of the puppy, so there no issues of bounced checks or issues with sending monies from one bank institution to another. No exceptions. I typically only reserve the first 3 females and the first 3 males as there are no guarantees of how many puppies are born. I go in order of when I am contacted. For an example if you contacted me in May for a female, and John Doe contacted me in January for a female from the same mother then John Doe will get first pick and you would get second pick. It seems to be the fairest method I have come across and will be moving forward with that process unless I discover a better way. I also reserve the right to have first pick so I can sustain my future breeding line as it dictates. I do not allow visitation to the puppies until they are ready for pickup. It also increases the chances for the puppies to get sick and potentially all die from a condition call parvo, as they are not full vaccinated. I have scheduled meetings with individuals that would like to meet me and the adult dogs fully vaccinated prior to making a commitment but not when I have current litters. I would recommend if you want to see the puppies earlier to log into Facebook and follow my page on there. I conduct live videos where you can see all the puppies. After a few weeks old we begin to collar them so you can tell them apart better. I do not place or pick certain pups for certain homes. Some people may not like that due to a puppies drive or behavior. I personally feel training is key to your dogs behavior. You have to spend time with this puppy and be consistent. Goldens just want to please you, but they will test you to learn their place in the household. If you lack experience in training dogs, I do recommend you work with a trainer and read literature so you can achieve the most success with your puppy. You will get an hour to choose your puppy. Please be mindful as I will have others scheduled after your hour of time is completed. I will need some of that time to go over paperwork that is required through the state to complete. I have no problems if you want to bring a trainer or conduct your own tests to see if one puppy might be a better fit based on their opinion. Please be respectful of my property and do not go adventuring around wherever you may like without me being present. Once you pick your puppy and all paperwork has been completed, you will be provided with vet records of your puppy and the vaccines that were previously given. At this time, I do not microchip any puppies. I personally feel the best time to microchip a puppy is when they are sedated which I recommend during the spay. We do require that you schedule an appointment with your vet within 14 days of the pickup date. You may want to schedule this prior to arrival as animal hospitals have been extremely busy. We will have gift bag for you. There will be some surprises in there for your pup, including enough puppy food for the next several days so you can either remain on it or gradually change the food to one of your liking. We highly recommend slowly changing the food over time if you decide to change it as they have extremely sensitive stomachs at this age. The only thing he knew was his name. We were new parents and all we knew was that we liked to hunt, and Rusty was a heckuva duck dog. Long story short, we purchased a mate for him from Torch Flinn in , Tigathoes Morning Mist, as we couldn't bear the thought of life without a big red golden. Over the years thoughtful outcrosses with exceptional Canadian field studs enabled genetically safe line breedings with emphasis on the strengths and talents of the dogs we knew intimately. Not just names on a pedigree, we know health and accomplishment statistics on siblings, offspring, and offspring of siblings. Adirondac Goldens excel in so many venues because the traits a Master Hunter needs are the same that every competitor must have - - - work ethic, courage, perseverance, athleticism, and problem solving skills. The puppies just need to go home with the right owner, and we like to think that "pick of the litter" goes home with every buyer. A dog craves purpose. Dogs want to expend energy, solve problems, engage with others and embark on interesting adventures. Dogs are eager to comfort or protect; to herd or to hunt. A dog's purpose is it's passion. Preference is given to working homes.
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. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Tulsa location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands. Smart Golden Retriever puppies do great with early training. Complete Golden Retriever puppy training typically takes a few months. Dog Training Elite Tulsa offers specialized in-home training. Working with a Golden Retriever puppy and the owner directly in the home prevents puppies from being distracted and allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual puppies, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a puppy has completed in-home training, Dog Training Elite Tulsa offers puppy group classes for further training. Beginning Golden Retriever training in the home also helps owners bond with their pup so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. Training can be great mental stimulation, so a great exercise for Golden Retrievers as they get older is progressing their training. Once your puppy has mastered sitting, for example, train them to maintain the position until released. Once your puppy is a bit older, explore other sports and activities. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. True to their name, Golden Retrievers love retrieving things! Golden Retriever Specific Tips Weight Management Golden Retrievers can easily become overweight so owners will need to help manage their food intake. Golden Retriever Specific Tips Make it a Family Affair If you have adopted a Golden Retriever puppy to become part of a family, make sure all kids and adults are on the same page with training and all practice basic tricks with the family dog. Dog Training Elite Tulsa has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Tulsa training method. Golden Retriever training can help you establish routines and learn how to be consistent about enforcing them. All Sizes. All Ages. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite Tulsa uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Tulsa never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite Tulsa training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your Golden Retriever puppy into a loyal and loving companion? Find a trainer near you today! We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! Best dog trainers ever. I have worked with several other trainers. David and Kristin are by far the best.
They are located in Londonderry, New Hampshire. Their About Us section says that Erin lived with dogs all of her life , as her mother also had a breeding program. On the other hand, Brendan is a certified dog groomer. Erin and Brendan run Granite State Labradoodles along with their three children. If you acquire a puppy from Granite State Labradoodles, you will receive lifetime support from them. Furthermore, each puppy has a two-year health guarantee. Although their process is quite meticulous, you can be sure that your pups will be in optimal condition once they arrive at your house. You can find more information about their pets at the Granite State Labradoodle website. Contact Information: Granite State Labradoodle granitestatelabradoodles. The list provided in this article will be useful for you to meet the next member of your family. 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. Contact Us We have one male pup available! Alexander is a beautiful white doodle looking for his forever family. Email us at gougefamilylabradoodles gmail. Why Labradoodles? After years of searching for the right family dog, we are excited to share our answer with you. We love our Labradoodles, and understand why this combination has become so popular. Non-shedding, non-smelling, usually hypoallergenic, mid-sized, with calm friendly temperament, Labradoodles are dogs anyone can love. Our mission is to breed family dogs, so others can enjoy their best friends as much as we do ours. As our puppies grow up nearby and across America we are very happy to hear they exhibit the good traits we love so much in their parents. What exactly is a Labradoodle? It can be confusing. Our puppies are multigenerational, the product of two F1B parents. What are those traits? Our dogs are calm, people-loving, obedient, playful, with lots of wavy non-shedding hair. They don't have that "dog smell". They interact well with children and other animals, and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. They do let us know when visitors arrive, but don't generally bark too much without a reason. Our Dogs Ginny is our new female. We are excited to bring in some red, and she is smaller than our other dogs. She isn't ready to be a mom yet, but stay tuned for summer .Zoe, taking a break. She was our original Labradoodle, and produced several beautiful litters of puppies. Sadly, we said goodbye to Zoe in September of .She truly was the best dog ever, the perfect companion for walks, camping trips, and slow days at home. We have plenty of dogs here still, but we miss her greatly. Marley, with us on a trip to the lake. He is very friendly and gentle, and many families hope their puppy will turn out just like him. Bree, our current mom, is bigger and curlier than the other dogs, and is the only female we are breeding at this time. She may have one more litter next year. Marshfield, Vermont, USA. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Jericho Vermont and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. The love and caring that Alex and Pam put into the raising of their pups is extraordinary! My family did not anticipate having to search for a puppy; we unexpectedly lost our 16 year old Cockapoo in March. Pam, especially, made this process seamless. She answered emails within a few hours and answered ALL questions thoroughly unlike other breeders. She kept us updated when the puppies arrived and as they grew up. The amount of time and love that Green Mountain gives to each litter is incredible. They are so loved and well cared for and it shows! As a new puppy owner you are also set up for success with all the information and support you are given. We are so happy with out new addition to our family! I would highly recommend Green Mountain Australian Labradoodles! I highly recommend them and their doodles! Bentley is the best puppy I have ever met! Healthy and perfect size for our family. Pam does it right,returns emails and phone calls the same day. Goes out of her way to accommodate her forever home pet owners. Thank you for Copper! Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Vermont? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Vermont. Our dogs are non-shedding AND hypoallergenic— really! Friendliest Dispositions Our Labradoodles are renowned for their calm, friendly demeanors. Doodles are the perfect friend to tag along on all of your adventures, from quick jogs in the park to long naps on the sofa—life is simply more fun with a Labradoodle! Extremely Intelligent Training your Doodle is a cinch thanks to their elite heritage that includes both the intelligent Poodle and the obedient Labrador Retriever. The Uptown Family We think of our puppies as family—a family that you become a part of when you bring home one of our Doodles. Because we want to help you raise the ultimate puppy, we also offer the best food, most effective supplements, and great training materials for your new best friend. Perfect Family Pet Labradoodles can thrive in so many different living situations, whether you have a big family or a small one, lots of kids or lots of pets, or you happen to be active and outgoing or relaxed and quiet. The key takeaway here is that Doodles just love people. That means more of our happy, healthy puppies are now available in all 50 states—including Vermont. Our breeders follow strict standards to maintain the wellbeing of both our parent and baby Doodles, which is one of the reasons our dogs are in limited supply—and high demand. Elite Vermont Labradoodle Genetic Lines Our breeders are always searching for ways to improve our genetic lines, which means less hereditary diseases, better personalities, more luxurious coats, and a whole lot more love to go around.
Panosteitis in Dogs Grow.Panosteitis in Dogs Growing Pains Panosteitis, also known as growing pains, refers to a self-limiting yet painful bone condition involving the long leg bones of young large breed dogs generally between ages 5 and 18 months. Panosteitis may occur in more than one bone at a time or may move around, causing a shifting leg lameness. The lameness tends to occur very suddenly and usually occurs spontaneously and without a history of trauma or excessive exercise. Causes of Panosteitis in Dogs Symptoms of Panosteitis in Dogs How will the vet know if my dog is having growing pains? Treatment Options for Dogs with Panosteitis Can growing pains be prevented? When to Contact a Vet Read more: Have more questions about growing pains in dogs? Panosteitis is a condition that affects young, rapidly growing dogs. Causes of Panosteitis in Dogs The underlying cause of panosteitis is unknown, but genetics, stress, infection, metabolism, or an autoimmune component may be factors. Since German Shepherds seem to be particularly predisposed to panosteitis, there may be a genetic component to the disease, at least in this breed. Inappropriate nutrition may also predispose some dogs to this condition. Symptoms of Panosteitis in Dogs The typical symptom is a sudden, unexplained, painful lameness limping of one or more legs. The lameness may be mild or severe. The affected bone will be painful to the touch. Other symptoms such as fever, decreased appetite, lethargy, or weight loss may be noticed. Panosteitis tends to have a cyclic nature, with periods of worsening symptoms followed by periods of improvement. The pain often shifts from leg to leg. Each episode of lameness may last for a few days to a few weeks, and the period between episodes is often about a month but may vary. How will the vet know if my dog is having growing pains? When your vet examines your dog, panosteitis will be suspected if the patient shows pain when pressure is applied to the affected bone s. The diagnosis is confirmed by radiographs x-rays , which usually show a characteristic increase in the density of the affected bones. The degree of change may not correlate to the severity of the lameness. In some cases, radiographic evidence may not be present for up to ten days after lameness begins; in these cases, repeat x-rays taken 2 weeks later will confirm the diagnosis. After the condition has resolved, the bone density normalizes and the bone looks normal on radiographs. Treatment Options for Dogs with Panosteitis Although this disease is self-limiting, and will spontaneously resolve, during episodes of lameness the condition is very painful. During episodes of lameness, exercise should be restricted. Between episodes, light to moderate exercise should be encouraged, but hard or vigorous exercise is discouraged, as are very long walks. Can growing pains be prevented? There are currently no known preventive measures for this medical condition. In general for puppies, it is important to feed a high-quality diet that has been formulated for growth there are diets specifically for large breed puppies and to restrict the quantity fed to keep the dog at a lean, healthy body weight. Do not allow your puppy to become overweight. Consult your vet for further advice on the most appropriate nutrition for your dog. When to Contact a Vet A dog with panosteitis will present with acute lameness brought on suddenly, which can range anywhere from mild to severe. As is the case with any lameness in your pet, do not delay in making an appointment with your vet. Panosteitis can last from 2 to 5 months. If your dog has signs that last longer than 5 months, you should go to the vet for a re-check. Read more:. By Emily A. Fassbaugh, DVM on Oct. Panosteitis in dogs, also known as pano, is a condition that affects the long bones of the legs. Because it most commonly affects large-breed dogs that are less than 2 years old, it has been called growing pains in dogs. Unfortunately, it can occur in multiple legs and move to a different leg after the first leg gets better. Symptoms of Panosteitis in Dogs The predominant symptom of panosteitis is limping and leg pain. The pain can come on suddenly and then resolve very quickly. It can also be hard to know when your dog is in pain. If you gently squeeze the long bones of their leg, sometimes your dog will cry out or pull the leg away in pain. It can be so painful that they will not want to use the affected leg. Causes of Panosteitis in Dogs Panosteitis in dogs is similar to growing pains in people. Because large-breed dogs—especially German Shepherds —are prone to it, there is a genetic component to this disease, but there is no identifiable gene mutation that causes it. Typically, it occurs between 6 months and 2 years of age, but you can sometimes see it in German Shepherds over 2 years of age. The disease affects the mid-shaft of the long bones and causes production of bone inside of the marrow cavity. High-protein diets may predispose large-breed dogs to panosteitis, so it is important to feed your dog a high-quality, large-breed puppy food to help prevent it. For the physical exam, your veterinarian first watches your dog as they walk to identify which legs are affected. Then, the vet performs an orthopedic examination by firmly pressing on all parts of the legs, back, and neck to check for pain reactions. Dogs with panosteitis will feel pain when the vet presses on the long bones in their leg. Your dog may tense up or even cry out and look at the spot that is painful when the veterinarian squeezes the bone. X-rays can also help diagnose panosteitis in dogs. Ordinarily, the bone marrow is darker than the outside of the bone, called the cortex. In panosteitis, the cortex bone can be seen extending into the dark marrow cavity. However, signs of pain can occur up to 10 days before the x-rays show changes, so a normal x-ray does not necessarily mean your dog does not have panosteitis. But x-rays do help rule out other causes of bone pain in dogs, such as infections, tumors, and broken bones. Treatment for Panosteitis in Dogs Treating dogs for panosteitis primarily involves nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Restricting your dog's activity also helps. Recovery and Management of Pano in Dogs An episode of panosteitis typically lasts a few weeks and then goes away. It sometimes happens again, in different legs, weeks to months later. Fortunately, after your dog is 2 years old, pano usually stops with no lasting inflammation or pain. Your veterinarian can also prescribe a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as carprofen , to relieve pain. How do I know if my puppy or dog has growing pains? Puppies or young adult dogs with growing pains often suddenly start limping with no known injury. Visit a vet for confirmation. How long do growing pains last in puppies and dogs? Typically, each growing pain episode lasts weeks. Once your dog reaches age 2, growing pains usually cease. Emily Fassbaugh grew up in San Diego. She attended the University of California, Davis for both her undergraduate studies in Animal.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Fever Painful to touch Diagnosis: vets first Although Panosteitis has been found to be of non-concern to health in later life it is a painful condition and can interrupt those all-important puppy experiences. Seeking veterinary advice will rule out any other issues that have similar signs and symptoms such as bone diseases and give you insight into how to manage Panosteitis. A touch test paired with background information is usually enough to diagnose Panosteitis, but in some cases, an X-ray may be required. What does treatment look like? Unfortunately, there is no exact cure as it generally resolves itself before the age of 2. Treatment relies heavily on pain relief through veterinary advice and the management of exercise and nutrition. Providing your puppy with a balanced puppy diet high energy, moderate protein and calcium levels is thought to aid prevention and manage Panosteitis, along with supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Playing, walking and running on hard surfaces can apply pressure on the bones and joints and so reduced exercise with low impact can help manage and prevent further inflammation. This is where hydrotherapy plays an important role in Panosteitis management. Further treatment: extra cuddles if you can possibly fit any more in How can hydrotherapy help? As mentioned, exercise on hard surfaces for prolonged periods of time can increase the pressure within their bones, but puppies need those all-important experiences and exercises throughout the day so what do you do? With hydrotherapy , the water is warmed to around degrees which are known to reduce pain and inflammation and increase blood flow around the body aiding growth. For larger breeds like our puppy star Flossie 8 months old growing can have its complications. As the bones and joints develop they have a great amount of pressure building due to their size. Usually, puppies will fully develop between months but for our larger fluff balls, this can take a little longer, meaning exercise can be cut short for the majority of their puppy stages. With hydrotherapy your puppy will be able to experience a new safe environment that is designed to reduce strain on their bones and joints, building confidence with swimming and strength whilst meeting new people during their important stages of growth. Here at Fit4dogs, we have put together a brand new Water Pups puppy water confidence program, initially to get your puppy confident in and around the water at a calm step-by-step pace, gradually building confidence until they are confident enough to swim. Then we are able to start them with some gentle swimming sessions to help with those growing pains. Drop us a message or give us a call to find out more about our Water Pups program which includes private access to our great A. We are here to help your puppies grow up as happy and healthy as can be. If you have any concerns about Panosteitis or if your puppy is suffering from growing pains, please contact a member of the Fit4dogs team via our website www. At the same time, however, your dog may struggle with growing pains that can literally produce bouts of painful lameness, a problem known as panosteitis. Take a look at four key points all large-breed dog owners should know about panosteitis. Panosteitis Accompanies Rapid Bone Growth Panosteitis usually affects the long bones of larger, fast-growing breeds such as German Shepherd Dogs, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Great Danes, usually appearing during the first two years of growth. This mysterious condition may stem from a combination of inherited traits, excessive protein consumption, or infections. In panosteitis, the marrow inside the leg bones fills up with a kind of fibrous tissue called woven bone. Eventually, the body replaces the woven bone with normal bone where necessary, dissolving any remaining woven bone in the marrow. Panosteitis Can Cause Recurring Symptoms Just as human teenagers can experience growing pains during growth spurts, puppies and young dogs with panosteitis typically suffer from bouts of acute pain in their leg bones. The pain may come and go, shifting from one leg to another. Your dog might go several weeks at a time with no symptoms at all between bouts. The pain of panosteitis can cause obvious, debilitating lameness in growing dogs. Sometimes, other panosteitis symptoms occur alongside pain and lameness. An affected dog may lose its appetite, losing weight as he or she loses interest in food. Some dogs may develop a fever or appear lethargic. Your veterinarian will most likely schedule two sets of X-rays, one at the initial evaluation and the next a couple of weeks later. If the cloudiness has grown more prominent or severe between the two diagnostic visits, your dog almost certainly has panosteitis. However, your veterinarian can provide supportive care to ease the accompanying pain and lameness until the condition finally resolves itself. Added pain relief is very important in helping to heal and keep your pup comfortable. Instead, there are specialized NSAIDs that work safely for animals to give them excellent pain relief. Let your veterinarian prescribe the right dosage for your individual pet. NSAIDs can cause problems in dogs taking certain other medications. You can help your young dog cope with panosteitis through smart home care as well. Feed your dog a balanced diet of food specifically for puppies. Ask your veterinarian about supplements that support healthy bones and joints. If your not-so-little friend displays the symptoms of panosteitis, make an appointment for him or her at 1st Pet Veterinary Centers. We can run the necessary diagnostic tests and prescribe the right treatment to help your puppy get through those growing pains more easily. This entry was posted in Pet Health. Bookmark the permalink. Our experienced, compassionate team, large variety of available services, and state-of-the-art animal hospitals are all designed to give you the peace of mind that your pet is receiving the best care possible. Written by Dr. In panosteitis, the superficial layer of the bone known as the periosteum becomes painfully inflamed. Simultaneously, rapid growth within the bone makes way for additional discomfort. While the cause of the disease remains a mystery, we speculate that mineral oversupplementation through the diet , infections and genetic factors play a role. High calcium intake, in particular, is associated with this disease. Dogs between the ages or 6 and 18 months are the most likely patients, though the official range is between 2 months and 5 years. In the case of our female patients, the onset of this disease can be associated with their first heat. The symptoms of panosteitis vary widely in severity. Some dogs will be almost imperceptibly affected while others experience moderate pain. In rare instances, the pain may be so severe that the dogs must be humanely euthanized for lack of effective pain control. Thankfully, panosteitis is a self-limiting condition, meaning that the symptoms resolve by themselves in a matter of days or weeks, though a significant percentage may be affected for months at a time. Symptoms and Identification In all cases, the long bones of the limbs are painful. One or more bones may be affected. Dogs may limp, but others may simply appear lethargic or display a decreased appetite. A "shifting leg" lameness is common for these dogs. In other words, one day they may limp on the hind limb, another day on the front. Palpating pressing on the middle of the shaft of the long bones of the limb, thereby eliciting pain, is a necessary part of the physical exam for all suspected sufferers. X-rays then provide confirmation when a telltale brightness is seen within the core of the affected bones. Note that some dogs may need to be sedated or even anesthetized for best results on the X-rays. Affected Breeds Panosteitis is most often seen in the following breeds, listed in order of prevalence note that some smaller breeds are included, as well :.
Life Span Did You Know? A mixed dog breed can take on the characteristics of either parent breed or be any combination of both of them. If a Siberian Husky Mix takes after their Siberian Husky parent, they will likely be a high-energy dog that loves its family, has an urge to wander, and needs plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Siberian Husky Mixes are usually loving and affectionate towards their family. With proper training and socialization, they get along well with other dogs and children. With a Siberian Husky as a parent, the Siberian Husky Mix will likely have a high prey drive and an urge to wander. Puppies will often take cues on how to behave from their mother, so meeting the mother dog in-person can give you an idea about the temperament of your Siberian Husky Mix. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix and meeting the mother dog can help you determine what to expect in your Siberian Husky Mix. A Siberian Husky Mix is moderately adaptable. Because Siberian Huskies are so high energy, they are not a good fit for apartment living. Their endurance, paired with their wanderlust, makes them better-suited for homes with room to run and a securely fenced backyard. They also are better-suited to moderate or colder climates due to their heavy insulating coats. Huskies also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and are easily bored, so they need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise. A mixed breed can sometimes end up with more robust genetics and not be prone to any of the health conditions common to the parent breeds. There is also the potential that they could be prone to conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Some potential health conditions to be aware of from the Siberian Husky side include eye disorders like Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Corneal Dystrophy, and Cataracts. To get a full picture of what to be aware of in your Siberian Husky Mix, be sure to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix, the genetic history of the parents, and any relevant health clearances. Knowing this information can give you an idea of what to expect and can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. A Siberian Husky is highly trainable, but can be stubborn. Usually, obedience training is recommended with Huskies, especially for novice dog owners. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea about what range of trainability to expect in your Siberian Husky Mix. Attending training classes with your puppy is always a good idea as there are always new things to learn and will help you be prepared to train your Siberian Husky Mix successfully. If the Siberian Husky Mix takes after their Siberian Husky parent, their coat will be thick and dense. The other parent breed in the mix may result in a lower-shedding coat or other coat variation, which could affect the grooming level of the coat. Regardless of coat type, there are other grooming tasks that every dog needs including nail care, dental care, and ear care. Nails that are too long can make movement uncomfortable or painful for your dog. By trimming them monthly, or more often if needed, helps keep nails shorter and movement more comfortable for your dog. Dental care for dogs is so important, but is also often overlooked. Dental disease is one of the most common, and preventable, health issues in dogs. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to ear infections simply because they are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. This will make grooming your dog much easier as they continue to grow. A Siberian Husky Mix is likely to be a high-energy dog that requires a lot of daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Trips to the dog park , hiking, swimming, games of fetch, running, dog sports, and more are all activities that can help your Siberian Husky Mix expend some extra energy. The other parent breed in the cross can have a big effect on the size of your Siberian Husky Mix. A Siberian Husky usually stands 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 35 and 60 pounds. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog in-person can give you an idea of what size to expect in a Siberian Husky Mix. A Siberian Husky typically lives 12 — 14 years. The other parent breed in the cross may affect the life expectancy of a Siberian Husky Mix. Talking with the breeder about both parent breeds can give you a better idea of what could be typical for your puppy. They served in this capacity again for the Byrd Antarctic expeditions. Featured Siberian Husky Mix Article. You will also have to have a puppy that is properly socialized with other dogs and people. There are several reasons why it would benefit you to spend some time looking over various breeders and decide which one is right for you. A purebred dog comes with a pedigree that gives you a certain level of confidence when it comes to selecting a puppy. With a puppy, you have a bond of loyalty, trust, and love that you can only get from your own pet. However, you should realize that many genetic defects will be more noticeable if you choose a purebred dog as opposed to an imported puppy. Purebred dogs generally have a full set of genes, and they are also highly monitored to ensure that their health is in good shape. The problem with purebred dogs is that they are more expensive than their imported counterparts. If you are unable to afford a purebred, then it is recommended that you look into the imported dog. You may be able to find an animal that is purebred but with fewer genetic lineages. Breeders will also want to know if you are willing to pay extra for additional services that they offer. The majority of breeders will want to know the type of background you have, and what types of diseases or health problems you are trying to protect your dog from. You should be sure that any health care provider that you are considering will do their best to work with you to find the right dog for you. If you want a purebred dog, you may be able to find one that is fully tested and licensed to give you a healthy and protective dog that will be easy to care for. However, if you are hoping to find a purebred dog, you should be prepared to pay a higher price. You can find out if you can find a suitable animal by checking out different breeders to see what they have to offer. A purebred dog can give you a lot of health benefits and guard your family members from many ailments. However, it will cost you a few hundred dollars more in the beginning, and there are other factors that you should consider. In this case, it is important to make sure that you do your research before you commit to purchasing a purebred dog. If you want to keep your costs low, it would be a good idea to find a breeder that has started as a purebred owner. They may be more willing to keep the breeder lines pure to keep the costs down. Be sure to check with breeders that you are interested in, as they may have several options available to you. You may also be able to find mixed breeding, which is great if you are not ready to start with purebreds. If you want a purebred dog , it is highly recommended that you work with a breeder that is still working as a purebred. You should be able to save money by buying a purebred dog, but you should be aware that you will be doing business with an individual that is used to running a business, and he or she may not be completely hands-off. You will also have to deal with the breeder of the purebred dog and a vet every time you need a veterinarian and routine check-up. Several different German Shepherd Breeds are commonly used in breeding programs. They have the advantages of good temperament and working ability as well as speed and agility. This breed is also good with children. It is important however that you get your German Shepherd from a trustworthy breeder who will gladly share all the necessary information about proper nutrition and grooming as well as offering help and support after you bring your new puppy home. When looking for German Shepherd mixes in PA it is also important to remember that they are very susceptible to health problems such as congenital defects and genetic abnormalities. If you would like to have a healthy and happy adult dog, you need to ensure that the parents of your German Shepherd mix have been tested for health issues. Breeding and selling German Shepherds is a delicate procedure because of their complicated temperament. They can be very stubborn in terms of training, but they have an uncanny ability to make amends when they do bad things. That said, this does not mean that your new dog cannot be naughty, just that they need to be kept in line. You may want to consider getting a puppy or a young adult dog from your local rescue to take care of your German Shepherd mix dogs for sale in PA. Grooming is another important part of owning dogs. Even though they have long coats, it can be difficult to brush and bathe a dog with a long coat. To get the best results, you should invest in a professional groomer who also has experience with German Shepherds. You can also groom your dog yourself, but most dogs will not appreciate the extra attention. Be sure to also get them to wear a collar and leash when they are outside. If your German Shepherd mix dogs for sale in pa have had long hair for most of their lives, you will have to undertake extra steps to handle and look after them. Since they have a much shorter coat than their long-haired cousins, they require different grooming techniques. You will have to get your dogs to use a comb and take regular care of their hair since hair breakages can lead to skin and coat problems. Also, regular grooming will help you learn to recognize potential skin problems early on. Socialization helps them develop a healthy, positive attitude towards people and other animals. It also prepares them for life as a family pet, since they will learn to respect and obey their master. You can choose from a variety of dog breeds to create the best match for your puppy. Some breeds of German Shepherd puppies on the market today are crossbred to create the American Kennel Club Standard, so you can be sure your puppy will be healthy and happy. German Shepherd mix dogs for sale in pa have a wide variety of health problems, and you must make sure you are buying a healthy, happy dog. This breed sometimes suffers from hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the spine and hip joint do not connect properly. Other common problems include skin infections, allergies, breathing problems, kidney or liver disease, and eye problems. He or she can also give you help in choosing the best puppy to get and may even know of a good kennel where these dogs are raised. You can also research online and there are lists of reputable breeders available, but you may still need to put in a bit more of your own time to find the right puppy. Share this:.
kansas city labrador puppies - Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The American Bulldog is an agile, confident and loyal protector for his human family, as well as of personal property. He is a gentle, affectionate and loving companion, albeit fearless and ready to strike should any intruder cross his path. An energetic, active working dog, the American Bulldog exudes a dominant, powerful and athletic appearance, with strong muscles and substantial boning. He gets along well with young children, as well as dogs and other pets so long as he was raised with them from the start. The American Bulldog does not do well when left alone for prolonged periods of time. With proper socialization, training and regular exercise, the American Bulldog is a true companion and excellent watchdog. Upkeep Because of his working past, the American Bulldog is quite familiar with being outdoors, but like most dogs, he thrives on living indoors with his owner. As such, he should be frequently exercised with plenty of engaging activity to burn off energy and combat boredom, avoiding consequential destructive behavior. Otherwise, the American Bulldog is a relatively low-maintenance breed, requiring not much else than mopping up his regular drool and slobber and minimal grooming for his short, fine coat. Known for his strength, courage and ease around livestock, the breed began being used for bull baiting before it was outlawed in England. Consequently following the ban, the breed was replaced with the less athletic, shorter and stockier English Bulldog. Meanwhile, the original bulldog type was preserved by working class immigrants, who brought them on their journey to America to use as all-around working dogs on farms and ranches in the South. Johnson worked to revive the breed alongside Alan Scott and other breeders. Today, the modern American Bulldog as we know it remains a well-rounded working dog, courageous guard dog and faithful family companion. Related Content. Show more How much grooming does an American Bulldog need? American Bulldogs have short fur that generally only needs an occasional brush. American Bulldogs often have skinfolds which require regular cleaning. Speak to your vet for advice on how to do this for your dog. Show more What size crate do you need for an American Bulldog? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully s.To find out more about potential health issues.Are American Bulldogs easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and prior experiences. So, every American Bulldog temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They d.Show more Are American Bulldogs good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. Dependence 1. American Bulldog Lifespan This is a breed that you will spend many years with and form a strong bond with. Typically speaking, they are known for their physical strength and great health which contributes to a lengthy life. When fed a proper diet, exercised on a regular basis, and given the care and affection they need, these fur babies usually live between years and some live even longer than that. Ambulls are full or energy which has part to do with why they are considered an athletic dog breed. Helping your furry friend release their energy is crucial when it comes to maintaining proper behavior. To be perfectly clear, this is not a breed that does well with simply being kept in a back yard. Daily exercise as well and mental stimulation is an absolute must. The happiest Ambulls are those that participate in regular playtime with their humans. They also like to switch up activities rather than doing the same thing over and over again. Being such a high energy breed, these fur babies can be challenging for some people, especially those that are often away from the house. However, the challenge is more than worth the effort as long as you are willing to put in the work. Types Of American Bulldogs You might be surprised to learn that there are actually several different types of Ambulls. While each is quite similar to the others, they do have their own distinct differences. Their bodies are muscular and broad and they also have very short muzzles. Contrary to other types of dogs from this breed, the Johnson has very low energy levels and will need encouragement to get the exercise they need. For this reason, Johnsons can easily become overweight. However, they are extremely loving and enjoy pleasing their humans. They are also protective when needed, but friendly the majority of the time. Painter Margentina This is another well built and strong dog from the Bully line. Unfortunately, these Ambulls come from a dark past. They were bred solely for fighting. Even though this is no fault of their own, their past has led to some aggressive behaviors. The good news is that they are intelligent and trainable so these behaviors can often be curved. However, a Painter would likely not make a good fit for a first-time owner or someone with small children in the house. However, unlike the Johnson, these fur babies are incredibly active and require regular exercise as well as mental stimulation. Their appearance is also slightly different from most dogs in this breed line due to their long legs, muzzle shape, and lean stature. As their name suggests, they are typically found in the south. However, they have been expanding across the rest of the country. They make amazing companions and have an excellent temperament. Their energy level is often somewhere between the Johnson and the Scott. Ambulls are a breed that require a fair amount of exercise. In order to keep your furry friend healthy, they should participate in hours of physical activity per day. While two daily walks for about minutes are a great place to start, additional exercise will be needed in most cases. The good news is that exercise can be fun for both of you. Try activities such as fetch, tug of war, or frisbee. American Bulldog Temperament Temperament and personality are important things to keep in mind before adopting an American Bulldog. The good news is that Ambulls have an incredible temperament. This breed tends to be loyal, affectionate, and gentle. They make amazing family dogs and are incredibly good with children. However, this also contributes to their ability to make excellent guard dogs. Training from a young age is quite beneficial with this breed. While they are eager to please their humans, establishing yourself as the pack leader as soon as possible is crucial. Are They Easy To Train? Truthfully speaking, training an American Bulldog can be a daunting task, especially for a novice trainer. This breed loves to please their humans, buy they also have a muscular build and a strong personality that tends to lead to them wanting to have things their way. The most important thing when training an Ambull is to use reward based training rather than discipline based. Reward based training will make the experience more enjoyable for both your fur baby and you. Here are the best steps you can take when training an your fur baby. Socialize with other animals and people from a young age. Let your fur baby set the pace with their socialization. Begin obedience training as soon as possible. Use both hand and voice commands. Stay patient throughout the process. Impatience will only delay training. Remain consistent to avoid taking steps backward. Never use physical punishment against your dog. Be firm with your commands without being harsh. Use rewards to reinforce positive behaviors. Establish trust as well as a bond with your furry friend. Typically speaking, an Ambull can weigh anywhere between pounds. They often stand between inches high. However, keep in mind that these sizes and weights are simply the breed standards. Ambulls can easily be much larger or even smaller at times. Are They Good Guard Dogs? Due to their protective nature, large build, and high levels or bravery, this breed does make an excellent guard dog. They are quick to intervene if they sense their loved ones are in trouble and will put themselves in the line of danger without hesitation. One thing to keep in mind is that their protectiveness can lead to excessive barking at times, but this behavior can usually easily be corrected with training. American Bulldog Health Issues While Ambulls typically live long and healthy lives, they do have health concerns to watch out for. The most worrying is the chance of bone cancer. However, the risk is relatively low in most cases. The most common issue to watch out for is obesity which is why these fur babies should never be allowed to free feed and should receive regular exercise. Other health concerns to watch out for include: 1. Hip Dysplasia.
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kansas city labrador puppies - Follow Country Living on Instagram. It comes with four PVC protective covers in case of any damage to the bottom of the pool. This design can withstand seriously hot weather and has a soft base to ensure extra comfort for your pup. The sprinkler pad just needs to be plugged into a garden hose to work, and you can adjust the water pressure and the spray height from there. Another perk is that the bottom of the pet pool is non-slip, which provides safety for use. It is quick and easy to pop-up and comes with built-in drainage holes. Great for traveling and staycations, it's made using durable PVC material which prevents punctures. It's made from extra-tough PVC, so it will stay secure while your dog is playing around without the edges collapsing. It also features a built-in drain valve that you can attach your hose directly to, making it super-easy to fill and empty, plus it won't cause any unnecessary water damage to your lawn. The non-slip bottom will help keep your pet and child safe while splashing around, too. Watch Next. UKC Classification: Herding Dog To prevent over-guarding and aggressive behavior, German shepherd dogs should have socialization and obedience training at a young age. German shepherd dogs reach a maximum of about 25 inches in height, and they weigh up to about 95 pounds 41 kilograms. He is a well-proportioned dog. The head is broad and tapers handsomely to a sharp muzzle. The ears are rather large and stand erect. The back is level and muscular, and the tail is bushy and curves downward. The coat is thick and rough and may be black, tan, black and tan or gray. The coat should be harsh and of medium length; however, long-coated individuals occur often. The breed lives about years. Personality: German shepherd dogs get along well with children and other pets if raised with them, but in keeping with their guarding instincts, they tend to be leery of strangers. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. Some poorly bred German shepherd dogs can be high-strung and nervous. Coupled with poor socialization and inadequate training, over guarding and aggressive behavior are risks. Living With: Because German shepherd dogs are large and powerful and have strong guarding instincts, great care should be taken to purchase German shepherds from reputable breeders. Poorly bred dogs are more likely to be nervous. To prevent over guarding and aggressive behavior, German shepherd dogs should be carefully socialized from a young age and be obedience trained. They should be with the family and continually exposed under supervision to people and other pets around the neighborhood; they should not be confined to a kennel or backyard either alone or with other dogs. German shepherd dogs are active and like to have something to do. They need ample exercise daily; otherwise, they can get into mischief or become high-strung. The dog sheds heavily about twice yearly, and the rest of the time sheds a lesser amount continually. To control shedding and keep the coat nice, brush at least a few times a week. History: German shepherd dogs are, as their name implies, a breed that originated in Germany. They were developed beginning in the late s by crossing various herding breeds. The breed was subjected to stringent selection and it progressed quickly. In the United Kingdom, the dogs are known as Alsatians because fanciers of the breed there wanted to protect the dog from anti-German sentiments after World War I. German shepherd dogs were introduced in the United States by soldiers returning home from World War I. The breed caught the public eye because of movie stars Strongheart and later, Rin Tin Tin. The first guide dogs were German shepherd dogs. Today, they are one of the most popular dogs in America. The German shepherd dog is a herding breed known for its courage, loyalty and guarding instincts. This breed makes an excellent guard dog, police dog, military dog, guide dog for the blind and search and rescue dog. For many families, the German shepherd is also a treasured family pet. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Shepherd Dog Overview The German Shepherd Dog, recognized as the Alsatian in Great Britain and various parts of Europe, stands as one of the foremost canine breeds globally, often finding its place in the top 10 most favored breeds in the United States. Its distinction and fame can be attributed, in part, to a poignant tale from World War I. Amidst the turmoil of war, Corporal Lee Duncan rescued a young puppy from a war-torn breeding kennel in France. This pup, later named Rin Tin Tin, would become a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, starring in numerous films and amassing an astonishing 10, fan letters weekly during the pinnacle of its stardom. Beyond the silver screen, the German Shepherd has embraced a multitude of roles. From aiding the visually impaired and apprehending criminals to detecting illicit substances and serving in the military, this versatile breed has exhibited its prowess. It has also demonstrated its compassion by visiting the sick and exhibiting its herding instincts with livestock. Originating as herding dogs tasked with day-long duties, they possess substantial energy levels, necessitating ample physical activity and mental stimulation. A lack thereof can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking and destructive chewing. Characterized by an aloof and occasionally wary disposition, they excel as vigilant watchdogs but may not exude the warm welcome typical of a family pet. Nevertheless, early exposure to diverse situations and individuals during puppyhood can cultivate adaptability. Descendants from American breeders often prioritize the pursuit of dog show accolades and distinctive aesthetics, sometimes at the expense of traditional working abilities. These dogs tend to exhibit heightened energy and determination. Thus, a visit to a shelter provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with your potential lifelong companion before making a commitment. German Shepherd Dog Highlights Renowned for their vigor and intellect, German Shepherds thrive when engaged in various activities such as learning, playing, and purposeful tasks. Daily routines should incorporate both physical exercises like jogging and Frisbee, as well as mental challenges like training sessions. The German Shepherd may not be the ideal choice if your schedule frequently keeps you away from home or requires extended absences. When left alone, they can develop feelings of unease or monotony, which might manifest through undesirable behaviors like excessive barking , chewing, and digging. German Shepherds often exhibit an aloof and cautious demeanor towards unfamiliar individuals. Initiating obedience training, commencing with puppy classes, aids in familiarizing them with other dogs and humans, while also instilling fundamental canine etiquette. Crate training proves invaluable not only for housebreaking purposes but also in instilling a sense of tranquility and contentment when separated from their owner. This aspect is particularly significant for the German Shepherd, as they can experience separation anxiety, leading to heightened distress when left alone. While they excel as vigilant watchdogs, it is essential to avoid chaining or tethering the German Shepherd solely for guarding purposes. This practice can result in frustration and potentially aggressive behavior. Optimal living conditions involve indoor coexistence with the family, along with access to a spacious, enclosed yard where they can expend their abundant energy. Consider exploring local shelters or breed-specific rescues for your next furry companion, including German Shepherds. Adopting from these sources before resorting to a breeder not only benefits the dog but also offers a chance to make a meaningful difference. An officer in the German cavalry, Captain von Stephanitz harbored a distinct ambition: to cultivate an unparalleled German herding dog. In preceding centuries, German farmers and their European counterparts relied on dogs to manage and safeguard their livestock. Certain canines gained legendary status for their herding prowess, prompting shepherds to traverse great distances to mate their female dogs with distinguished sires. However, as von Stephanitz astutely observed, the local herding dogs had yet to evolve into a distinct and unified breed. In , upon retiring from his military career, von Stephanitz embarked on a new chapter dedicated to his passion: experimenting with dog breeding to fashion an exceptional German herding dog. Drawing inspiration from the British, renowned for their exceptional herding dogs, von Stephanitz studied various breeding techniques. He traversed Germany, attending dog shows and closely observing German-style herding dogs. Amidst the fine examples he encountered—athletic, intelligent, and capable—he found a crucial element lacking: a single dog that encapsulated all these traits. While von Stephanitz initially intended the breed to excel in herding, the industrialization of Germany led him to envision a different path. Among them was an American corporal from Los Angeles, who rescued a newborn puppy from a war-ravaged kennel in France. However, the aftermath of the war introduced challenges. By , he recognized certain unfavorable traits emerging in German Shepherds, such as poor temperament and dental issues. He instituted a rigorous quality control system, requiring dogs to pass rigorous tests before breeding, assessing intelligence, temperament, athleticism, and overall health. American breeding prioritized appearances and show wins, while German Shepherds from Germany remained steadfast in their working abilities. In the face of performance challenges and genetic health concerns among American-bred dogs, a shift began, with some U. This breed falls squarely within the medium to large dog category, characterized by a strong and robust build that exudes both elegance and power. Adult German Shepherds typically possess a height range of 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm at the shoulders, with males often standing slightly taller than females. However, these measurements may vary based on factors such as genetics, lineage, and geographical regions of breeding. This weight range contributes to their substantial and muscular appearance, reflecting their historical role as herding and working dogs. Their well-proportioned body structure, characterized by a level back, strong hindquarters, and deep chest, further emphasizes their agility and strength. While their imposing stature contributes to their role as capable guardians and protectors, it is important to note that their size is coupled with intelligence and an eager-to-please temperament. This blend of physical prowess and mental acuity positions them as versatile companions, excelling in various roles such as search and rescue, police work, service, and family pets. Maintaining an ideal weight and overall health is crucial for the well-being of German Shepherds. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care contribute to their longevity and vitality. These dogs are inclined toward reserve, forming connections not instantly but deeply, and once those bonds are forged, their loyalty knows no bounds. Within their family circle, they exhibit an affable and approachable demeanor, yet when faced with threats, they can transform into stalwart protectors, showcasing their exceptional watchdog abilities. Endowed with remarkable intelligence and trainable instincts, this breed thrives when given a purposeful task—no challenge is too great. However, one aspect that requires careful consideration is their need for companionship and engagement. Prolonged periods of solitude do not align well with their nature. Without the necessary interaction, exercise, and opportunities to engage their sharp minds, they can experience boredom and restlessness. A German Shepherd left under-stimulated and isolated from family activities may resort to undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking and destructive chewing. In line with all canines, early socialization proves pivotal for a well-rounded development. The German Shepherd should be exposed to diverse people, environments, sounds, and encounters during their formative stages. Such socialization lays the foundation for an adaptable and balanced adult dog, equipped to handle a variety of situations with confidence and ease. By embracing these qualities and providing suitable outlets for their energy and intellect, the German Shepherd can evolve into an outstanding companion and guardian, embodying the best of their remarkable personality traits. German Shepherd Dog Health German Shepherds typically enjoy good health, yet, akin to all breeds, they have susceptibility to specific health conditions. Hip dysplasia can manifest with or without apparent symptoms. Some dogs may display lameness and discomfort in one or both hind legs, with arthritis potentially developing as they age. Screening for hip dysplasia through X-ray assessments is conducted by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. The consequence is painful lameness. Veterinary recommendations could encompass surgical intervention or pain management medications. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus Bloat : A life-threatening situation predominantly affecting deep-chested large dogs, bloat occurs when the stomach distends due to gas or air and subsequently twists. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent shock and possible fatality. Suspect bloat if your dog exhibits abdominal distension, excessive salivation, retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, and rapid heart rate. Dogs with DM struggle to coordinate hind leg movements, often progressing to an inability to walk. Treatment options are limited, although rare instances might involve vitamin deficiencies, necessitating vitamin supplementation. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI : This genetic pancreatic disorder diminishes digestive enzyme production, leading to impaired food digestion and absorption. Symptoms include gas, appetite loss, weight reduction, altered stools, and increased hunger. Allergies: German Shepherds are susceptible to various allergies encompassing contact and food sensitivities. Indicators may involve persistent scratching, paw licking, and facial rubbing. Consult your vet if such symptoms emerge. This translates to a surplus of energy that necessitates daily exercise for release. Extended periods of solitude without physical exertion can result in issues. Boredom and inactivity pave the way for undesirable behaviors, such as chewing , digging , and barking. To satiate their energetic demands, German Shepherds require both physical engagement jogging, playful sessions at a dog park and mental stimulation participation in agility or obedience competitions. Similar to many herding breeds, German Shepherds have a penchant for vocalization. Furthermore, these dogs have an inclination for chewing, and their formidable jaw strength can swiftly demolish various materials. German Shepherd Dog Feeding Tailoring a diet for a German Shepherd Dog requires consideration of their large size and elevated energy demands. Seeking guidance from your veterinarian or a certified nutritionist is prudent to determine the appropriate nourishment and portion sizes for your German Shepherd. As they progress through puppyhood, adulthood, and senior stages, their dietary requisites will evolve. Remaining attentive to these nutritional shifts is crucial. For German Shepherd puppies, particular attention is necessary when it comes to feeding and physical activity. Their rapid growth between four and seven months leaves them susceptible to bone-related issues. To mitigate such concerns, a high-quality, low-calorie diet is advisable to regulate their growth rate. Grass surfaces are more suitable, and puppy agility with minor jumps is permissible. Cautious portion control is essential to prevent excessive weight gain and potential joint complications. Striking a balance with treats, promoting regular exercise, and adhering to scheduled mealtimes, as opposed to constant access to food, safeguards against overfeeding. By being attentive to their dietary needs and mindful of their activity levels, you can contribute to the well-being and overall health of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Dog Coat Color And Grooming Originally bred to manage flocks in challenging climates, the German Shepherd boasts a medium-length double coat that suits this task impeccably. This coat serves as a natural shield against rain, snow, and prevents the accumulation of burrs and dirt. The German Shepherd exhibits a diverse range of coat types and colors. The outer layer features dense, straight hair that lies close to the body, occasionally presenting a wavy or wiry texture. Notably, the American Kennel Club does not endorse white as an accepted color for conformation shows, though they remain eligible for other competitions. Prospective German Shepherd owners must brace for hair on various surfaces, from clothing to furniture. While no foolproof remedy exists for shedding, regular brushing , ideally two to three times a week, can help manage the hair situation by capturing more in the brush than on furnishings. A reliable vacuum cleaner also proves advantageous. Despite their shedding reputation, German Shepherds tend to maintain a fairly clean and odor-free disposition. Supplying durable and secure dental chew toys or bones can combat tartar buildup, especially on the back molars. Supplementing this with periodic brushing using a soft toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste enhances gum and teeth well-being. German Shepherd Dog Children And Other Pets A well-trained German Shepherd that has been exposed to children, especially during their puppyhood, can make an excellent companion for kids. Some liken them to a blend of a caretaker and a guardian, as they exhibit gentleness and protective instincts towards the youngsters within their family. However, given their size, there is a potential for accidental bumps with toddlers or small children. Their reserved demeanor translates into a cautious approach with unfamiliar kids, yet their reliability generally prevails. While not overtly exuberant, German Shepherds can harmoniously coexist with other dogs and pets, provided they receive proper guidance from their early days. In such cases, enlisting the aid of a professional trainer or seeking guidance from the rescue organization, if you obtained the adult German Shepherd from there, can prove beneficial. German Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups Many individuals acquire German Shepherds without a comprehensive grasp of the responsibilities associated with their ownership. A multitude of German Shepherds are seeking adoption or foster care, and numerous breed-specific rescue organizations are spread throughout the nation. Below are a few links to a few of these German Shepherd rescue groups. They can be aloof, and you definitely have to earn their trust. Early social interactions with kids, babies and other animals is also important if you want your German Shepherd to be well-behaved around guests. With the proper education, this easy-to-train pup can be a great family dog. German Shepherds are born talkers. But training and exercise can help curb a lippy pup and keep their barking to when you need it the most. These dogs are incredibly smart, and they are at their best when they have a job to do, whether working as a police or military dog, doing tracking or search and rescue, serving as a guide dog or at home practicing scent work or solving puzzles for a treat. German Shepherds need regular grooming , plenty of exercise and a lot of training. However, these pups are quick studies, and all your efforts will be rewarded. Their dense double coat protects them from sun exposure and keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Brush your pup every day with a pin brush to keep the coat shiny, clean and healthy, especially in the spring and fall when they shed the most Warning: They shed a lot. Bathing too frequently can strip their coat of its natural oils, so plan on bathing your German Shepherd every three to four months, or when they get really dirty. If you do see signs of infection, call your vet. Get the how-to here. Because they are a large-sized pup and wary of strangers, an untrained dog can be unruly. And their training should start early. Socialize your puppy with other animals and people and introduce them to new experiences and objects. Puppy school is a great way to get them used to other people and dogs and start their obedience training all in one place. Obedience training usually includes skills like sit, stay, come and how to walk nicely on a leash. Bred to herd cattle, Shepherds are often nippers as puppies, and you may have to navigate the teething phase for about six months. Participating in canine sports like agility, tracking and herding are great ways to train your pup, get some exercise in and strengthen your bond. Remember, the best German Shepherd is a busy German Shepherd, and enriching their environment by giving them something to think about and do will have tremendous benefits. You should talk to your veterinarian about a feeding chart that will let you know how much and how often to feed your dog based on their specific needs. German Shepherd dogs often get upset tummies, and their skin is notoriously sensitive. Pick a dog food with highly digestible proteins and nutrients that support skin health. Small amounts of cooked vegetables and eggs can also be beneficial to German Shepherds, but again, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your pup gets the nutrition they need. Just like with you, snack calories count! Exercise German Shepherds have a very high energy level, and you need to use up all that energy to keep your pup well-mannered. So, plan on spending about two to three hours every day focused on physical and mental activity. This could include scent walks, where your dog is allowed to stop and sniff whatever engages them, brisk jogs through the neighborhood or a game of fetch in your backyard. German Shepherds are known for their speed; they can run up to 30 miles an hour. Do you like to swim? Outdoor adventures, like hiking, are also a fun way to get off the beaten path and give your pup new scents to discover. Mentally stimulating activities can be just as tiring as physical ones. Hide treats under boxes, so your pup has to push the boxes around to get the treat or feed them in a creative way like stashing kibble in different spots throughout the house or use interactive feeding toys. These are great ways to get a German Shepherd to engage their nose and stimulate their mind. Ideal Environment The most important factor in raising a German Shepherd to be happy and healthy is a pet parent with the time and patience to train and play with them. As long as they get out and about for frequent exercise and do mentally stimulating activities in the home, they can be fine in apartments. To keep stress to a minimum, take your dog out during less busy times of the day and plan routes that are less hectic. Despite their tough exterior, German Shepherds have a soft center. They can get very lonely if left by themselves for long periods. So, if you have to be gone for a while, check them into doggy daycare or schedule a pet sitter to come by and play with your pup. Back to Top German Shepherd Health German Shepherds have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, but are prone to a number of health problems. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: German Shepherd health issues include these degenerative joint diseases that can cause pain throughout their life. According to the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals, about 20 percent of German Shepherds have hip dysplasia. Look for signs like limping and decreased range of motion. Treatment can include weight loss, reduced activity or surgery. Degenerative Myelopathy: A neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord, this disease can lead to paralysis of the hind legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind legs and difficulty standing up. There is currently no treatment for it, but physical therapy can help preserve the muscles and prolong the use of their legs. Cancer: German Shepherds can develop certain types of cancers, including hemangiosarcoma malignant tumors that often develop in blood-rich areas like the heart or spleen , bone cancer, lung cancer and intestinal cancer. Signs of cancer can include lethargy and loss of appetite. Depending on the severity, treatment options can include chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. Bloat: This can turn into a life-threatening condition where the abdomens swells and twists, and it is more common in dogs with deep chests like German Shepherds. Allergies: You sneeze, your pup scratches. If you see your pup scratching a lot, it may not just be itchy skin—your pup likely has allergies. In the late s, Captain Max von Stephanitz set out to create the perfect German herding dog capable of keeping sheep in line and protecting them from predators like wolves and cross-bred different dogs from northern and central Germany. He spent decades promoting the breed and even created the first club devoted to German Shepherd dogs. When herding became less of a necessity in the s, their history took a turn when von Stephanitz decided German Shepherds would make the ultimate K-9 or police dog. The original Rin-Tin-Tin was born in .However, during the world wars, their popularity wobbled due to anti-German feelings. But this pup, with their wonderful personalities, was not down for long. Today, the German Shepherd is the second most popular dog breed in America. What is the price for a purebred German Shepherd puppy? You can also reach out to German Shepherd rescue organizations to adopt one or keep an eye out for a German Shepherd who needs a home at your local animal shelter. No, German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Their shedding can spread pet dander throughout your home, making them a breed to avoid for allergy sufferers. Are German Shepherds aggressive? Because they are some of the best guard dogs in the world, it would be easy to dismiss German Shepherds as aggressive. Yes, they are wary around strangers and will lay down their life for their family, but with proper training and socialization, this pup can be a great family pet. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids if they are properly trained and socialized. Also, be sure children are taught the proper ways to engage with dogs, including not invading their space unless they ask first. What are the most popular German Shepherd names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common German Shepherd mixes? Pet parents looking for a more independent and low-maintenance dog should definitely look elsewhere. Female Names. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! High History of the German Shepherd The ancestors of German shepherd dogs acted as both servants and companions to humans for hundreds of years. Developed from old shepherd and farm dogs, the German shepherd dogs we know today were first introduced in Germany in .Captain Max von Stephanitz is credited with the breed's beginnings. During World Wars I and II, the word "German" was dropped and the breed was referred to as the shepherd dog or the Alsatian a name that is still often used in Europe. Worldwide interest in the breed began rising in the early s and the German shepherd was recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC in .In modern times, the German shepherd remains one of the most popular dog breeds, currently ranking fourth in the AKC listings. Cross-breeding these dogs with Shiloh shepherds resulted in king shepherds. There is recent controversy over the breeding of show dogs to have a sloping back rather than the straight back seen with working dogs—this practice has been criticized as leading to poor gait. They are well suited to families of all types but are best acquired as pets when they're young so they have ample time to be trained and adjust to life with their humans. Your German shepherd probably needs more exercise than you think—a daily walk is not enough. If you're a jogger, a German shepherd can be a good running companion. Your dog needs to run, play, and explore to prevent frustration, boredom, and pent-up energy. A dog that is bored may develop problems such as barking, digging, and chewing. German shepherd dogs are better off in a home where there is a fenced yard for play rather than an apartment. However, it's even more important that your dog is given plenty of attention and not left alone most of the day. Grooming German shepherds have coarse, sometimes wiry, medium-length hair with thick undercoats. Their coats should be brushed every few days to combat their relatively high shedding rate, which can be lessened by routine grooming. Still, you should be prepared to have dog hair on your clothing and furniture—you'll need to vacuum frequently. Luckily, a German shepherd's coat also resists dirt and debris, so you won't need to bathe your dog more than once a month. In fact, too-frequent bathing will strip out the oils that keep its coat healthy. Remember to keep your dog's nails trimmed to help them walk around comfortably. You should also help your dog maintain good dental hygiene by brushing its teeth a couple of times a week. These dogs like to chew and have powerful jaws, so keep durable chew toys available. Training German shepherds can be very gentle companions and family protectors with proper training and socialization. It's an ideal breed for active households, and the intelligence and protective demeanor of this breed can make it a good choice for families with children as long as the dog is properly trained. German shepherds can sometimes become anxious or even aggressive if not properly trained and handled. These dogs will ideally be trained to perform a duty and will take pride in such. The breed's intelligence and desire to work should make training fairly easy. Proper socialization is also necessary to make sure your German shepherd does not become stressed or scared when meeting new people or animals and seeing new environments. They're typically aloof around new people and may be suspicious. Additionally, German shepherds may have a tendency to chase cats and other small pets and may not be a good fit for a multi-pet household unless raised together. They also may not get along with strange dogs, especially of the same sex, which may be a problem when you visit a dog park. Common Health Problems Responsible breeders strive to maintain the highest breed standards as established by kennel clubs like the AKC. German shepherd dogs bred by these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions, however, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. The following are some conditions to be aware of: Hip dysplasia : This genetic orthopedic disorder affects the hip joints of many large-breed dogs. It causes pain, limping, and degeneration of the joint. Elbow dysplasia: This is another orthopedic problem that is similar to hip dysplasia, but affects the dog's front legs, rather than the back. Elbow hygroma : This alarming, but non-cancerous growth is a fluid-filled swelling over the dog's elbow. It is usually caused by minor trauma, and although unsightly, normally does not cause the dog pain unless the hygroma becomes infected. Gastric dilatation-volvulus : Also called bloat, this is a very serious condition that occurs when a dog's stomach expands with gas or food and then flips within the abdominal cavity, cutting off the exits from the dog's stomach. Bloat can be fatal without prompt treatment. Degenerative myelopathy : This progressive neurological condition affects a dog's spinal cord. It starts with weakness in the hind legs and ultimately progresses to paralysis. You may also want to mix canned dog food into the kibble for extra flavor and interest. German shepherds are prone to bloating and possible stomach torsion, so you'll want to avoid giving one large meal a day and having the dog gulp it down. Be sure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water. Monitor your dog's weight and address any overweight issues early, as obesity will shorten your dog's lifespan. You can also discuss nutritional needs with your veterinarian to get recommendations for feeding schedules and dog food types throughout your dog's life. Where to Adopt or Buy a German Shepherd If you think you'd like to adopt a German shepherd, start by contacting one of the following organizations: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions These groups will be able to provide guidance and next steps for adoption as well as direct you to reputable breeders if you choose to go that route. The AKC also boasts a marketplace where you can inquire about AKC-registered litters that have been cared for and raised according to breed standards. German shepherds, especially German shepherd mixes, are very common at animal rescues, so if you aren't concerned about your dog being purebred, or you simply prefer to rescue a pet rather than purchase one, it's always a good idea to start your search with local animal rescue organizations. German Shepherd Overview German shepherds are perennially popular dogs and will continue to be looked upon as desirable and loving companions for decades to come. Provided you can meet their requirements for training, exercise and companionship, they are sure to be a great addition to your home and family. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Eventually he found the variations he fancied, bred them, and later his breed was used by the Germans in WWI, making them a working class dog. Despite the fact that many German Shepherds returned home with US soldiers, they were actually around the US before the war, they just had their rise to fame due to how well they serviced the soldiers. But some credit the popularity of German Shepherds to a famous Hollywood star. Rin Tin Tin, anyone? You see a beautiful German Shepherd, and while you want to run up and pet it, you know better, as those watchful eyes are questioning and assessing you. These dogs are naturally aloof, and commonly reserved in the face of strangers. They need exercise, immense amounts of stimulation, and to be constantly around those they love German Shepherd separation anxiety is a huge issue with these canines, as they freak out without the presence of their owner. In some ways, this dog is truly the alpha personality: calm, assertive, assured, confident, hyper-intelligent, powerful and athletic, and with the size to make you hesitate. Then at home the German Shepherd behavior is loving, quiet, calm, and even spunky at times. Training a German Shepherd This dog was bred to be trained. They love to learn and be challenged, and in turn love to challenge when given the opportunity. At home you need to establish yourself as the alpha, and this is one of those breeds that benefits from the owner holding a firm never aggressive hand. Early-socialization is a must, too. Expose them to other dogs, people, and environments right from the get-go. These dogs have a tendency to be extremely guarded, and that temperament—while appropriate in some situations—needs to be ironed out early, or a German Shepherd can be dangerous. With that being said, the German Shepherd puppy has a lot of energy. They love to swim, play Frisbee, play fetch, go on hikes or do anything that involves nature , and chase you around. Be sure to incorporate their exercising routines into their obedience training, as physical and intellectual stimulation is the key to a behaved and well-tempered German Shepherd. Their staunch loyalty and impressive physique make them an adventure buddy, a lover of the family, and a dog powerful enough to protect those most cared for if the situation calls for it. Not to mention that a purebred German Shepherd looks simply stunning in their black and brindle coat, with their sleek and elegant faces always poised with a certain type of stoicism lost in most breeds. Feeding Requirements for a German Shepherd Your German Shepherd should eat cups of high-quality dry food per day, broken into two even meals. Still, age, metabolism, weight, and activity-level are all integral factors that need to be considered when administering a balanced diet. Know that these dogs can tend to develop joint and leg related problems in their older ages, and be sure to provide the healthiest food for them to grow properly. In terms of hygiene, brush their teeth times a week to avoid tartar and bacteria build ups. Are German Shepherds Good with Children? The overall answer: absolutely. If raised properly, the German Shepherd will take the children as their own, love them indefinitely, and protect them at all costs. The German Shepherd characteristics make fantastic additions to the household with children. With that being said, their temperament around children depends on how well they were socialized , trained, and introduced to the youngsters. But, since they do have the 2 spot on the most popular list, this means there are puppy mills out there striving to produce a large quantity of puppies, without any regard for the responsibility they have in maintaining quality as well. These clearances need to be given by certified establishments. This means that German Shepherd hip dysplasia is very common within this breed. Symptoms include pain when walking, an abnormal gait, lameness in the leg s , and at worst immobility. It can cause lameness in the leg s , difficulty straightening the joint, an abnormal gait, and at worse immobility. There are preventative measures, treatments, and surgery available for this condition. Degenerative Myleopathy: this degenerative disease directly affects the spinal cord, gradually inhibiting its ability to communicate with the brain. In some cases, there are treatments available and dietary changes that can right the disease, but more often than not the dog is put down. Keratitis: this condition occurs when the cornea inflames. Other resources. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, naturally protective, and friendly. Without proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can develop nervous habits and overly-protective behaviors, just like most breeds. You might be wondering: What traits should I be watching for in my German Shepherd puppy? This intelligence, when left to its own devices, can lead to problematic behaviors. With early training and socialization though, you can help to prevent some of these common issues from coming up. A few of the most common include: Over-Protectiveness — German Shepherds are naturally protective. They want to protect the family unit. This protectiveness can become problematic if it manifests as aggression towards strangers or other animals. Examples include lunging at the mailman, or aggressive barking at passers-by. Introduce them to new people, new situations, and new noises. Socialization helps your puppy develop confidence and to learn what types of people and situations are non-threatening. Unfortunately, when they become over-territorial, this can be unsafe for visitors. Often, too, Shepherds can become territorial over food, growling, barking or lunging at anyone or other animals that come into their space. Exercise, obedience training, and rewarding calm behavior can all help to alleviate territorial aggression. Digging or Destructiveness — German Shepherds, require rigorous mental and physical exercise. They get bored very quickly, and often, this boredom manifests itself in destructive behavior. When bored, your pup might try to seek attention too, another common reason for the destructive behavior, like digging excessively or chewing up a shoe. Providing daily physical exercise, as well as training mental activity can help prevent boredom. Nipping — Many young dog breeds nip starting at around 6 to 9 months old. This is fairly typical behavior, but with Shepherds, it can be a bit scarier as get bigger. Separation Anxiety — German Shepherds, love you and want to always be by your side! Unfortunately, work and vacation make that impossible. You might also start with shorter trips when you first bring your pup home. Obedience training is imperative, and you should include your whole family in the training process. This will help your dog learn that he is not the alpha. Ultimately, the best way to weed out problematic behaviors is to start a training regime very early. German Shepherd puppies want to learn and put their intelligence to good use. Owners must be consistent in their training. Using the right cues, rewarding the right behaviors, and communicating with your dog properly is very important. The best way is to learn the right way to train a pup is to seek the help of a German Shepherd trainer. Taking a course teach you how to properly communicate with your dog and provide you with techniques to redirect negative behaviors. It starts with the breeder. Find a breeder that breeds for temperament and health. The best breeders take great care to produce animals that are calm, confident and loving. It requires careful pedigree planning and selecting the right sire dad and dam mom who show well-adjusted temperaments. Similarly, the best breeders will also be happy to provide a pedigree for the animal and are glad to answer the phone when you have any training concerns. For more information or if you may have questions, please contact us here.