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Labrador red fox puppies history and genetics of this color GAIA RED ROSE Labrador fox red is a coloring that does not render as well in photos as it does in person: seen up close it looks so wonderful that it is hard to take your eyes off it. The red fox color does not represent a different color than the yellow Labrador, but is simply a darker shade: it is the ancient coloration of yellow, as it was at the beginning of its history, when this coat type was much more present and then developed into lighter shades through breeder selection. The Labrador Fox Red is nothing more than a darker variant in the shade of the yellow Labrador. The American Kennel Club U. Personally, as a breeder, the very white coat doesn't make me crazy in fact I prefer more biscuity colorations that echo the red fox color a bit. It follows that the term "red fox" to refer to the color of this labrador is improper since it is still a yellow labrador, although comparison with other yellow subject variants might suggest that it is not. Through this darker color selection, in a fairly short time in the first decades of their history , Labrador retrievers fox red and dark yellow Labrador retrievers proved to be among the most popular. In the past, however, fox red Labradors were less common than black Labradors : these dogs were used for work mainly in hunting: for this use, black Labradors tended to be preferred over the others. What is curious is that in the past, fox-red Labradors were more common than light yellow Labradors: the first officially registered Labrador in Ben of Hyde had a dark golden color, tending toward fox-red, a coat that persisted at least until the s. From the mids onward, things changed: lighter yellow and cream-colored Labradors became more common than fox-red Labradors by breeders' choice. Labrador puppies "Red Fox" As pointed out earlier, Labrador red foxes today are found in smaller numbers than in the past, while lighter Labradors are much more common. How come? The reasons could be as follows: During the early years of the breed, dark yellow Labradors were more common, so yellow Labradors probably gave the idea of more exotic dogs, therefore rarer and more fascinating. For this reason, breeders would begin to select almost exclusively light yellow labradors, decreasing fox-red labradors. Since the mids, Scottex has used a light yellow labrador as its mascot in its toilet paper advertisement. This commercial was filmed for years and years in more than countries, and it is therefore quite likely that the idea common to most people about the labrador retriever has become almost inextricably linked to that of the light yellow labrador. Both of the events just mentioned probably played an important role in changing people's idea of what a true yellow Labrador is like. It should also be mentioned that although breeders have long selected mainly light yellow or cream-colored Labradors, in recent years the different shades of yellow Labradors have expanded again. While in the past light yellow Labradors were seen as rarer, exotic, and therefore more desirable, today it is the exact opposite, and red fox "fox red" Labradors are becoming popular again. Are Labrador red foxes purebred? Of course they are, precisely because their history goes back to the very beginning of the history of this breed. Therefore it is certain that they have never crossed with different breeds, unlike the Labrador Silver which is probably a genetic cross with the Weimaraner, in order to have their typical gray fur. Why do red fox puppies cost more? The Labrador Redfox is very rare in Italy but we and other breeders have imported subjects from the best bloodlines in the world such as Keepsake, Kellogg, Brierwood and Deer Creek. The price of a Labrador red fox puppy with all certifications and major bloodlines Keepsake, Cedru can range from 2, to 3, euros. Labrador Red Fox puppies can cost more than other Labrador colors such as black, chocolate or yellow for several reasons. First, the rarity of the Red Fox color could increase its market value. Second, Red Fox dogs may have desirable genetic traits, such as a thicker coat or greater resistance to disease. These characteristics can be inherited by Labrador Red Fox puppies, increasing their value. Finally, Labrador Red Fox puppies may come from high-quality breeders who invest time and resources in parent selection, puppy care, and socialization. These factors can increase the final cost of the puppy. However, it is important to remember that the price of Labrador Red Fox puppies can vary widely depending on the breeder, the quality of the puppy, and the geographic region in which the breeder is located. Suitability for trade, training, breeding and keeping of companion animals R. Fox red Labrador breeders Labs come in three colors, yellow, chocolate and black. As well as some pale, dilute forms of those colors. The red fox Lab, or fox red Lab, is a dark coated variety of the yellow Labrador Retriever. Breeders are selecting darker red Labrador Retrievers to breed from as they become more popular companions than paler yellow Labs. Sometimes known as the ruby Labrador or fox red Lab, these are smart, energetic dogs are best suited to active owners. Yet at one time, almost all Labradors were black. This was partly due to nature, and partly due to a little human interference. Chocolate and yellow Labs were both harder to breed for and less desirable. Horrifically, yellow or brown puppies were often culled at birth! Yet all three colors of Labrador Retriever, black, chocolate and yellow including the red shade , share the same origins or history. Bred to be hunting companions, with bags of intelligence and a friendly disposition. In recent years, these rarer colors are becoming more popular. Which leads to more people selectively breeding for them. And therefore more dogs being born with these coats. Red Fox English Lab vs American Lab The trend in Labrador coat colors swung to paler and paler colors in the s, and remained that way for decades. Especially among the dog showing community. Fortunately a pool of dark yellow or fox red Labs remained popular in the working sporting dog community. Possibly because a pale yellow dog, being far too easy for wildfowl to spot, is not an ideal hunting companion. American Labs are slimmer built, with less stocky heads and chests. They have a stronger prey drive, are a little less forward and playful. Even today you are unlikely to find a Red Labrador with a show background. Any dog advertised as an English fox red Labrador will probably have a pedigree that is a mix of American and English dogs. It is largely from this pool of working retrievers that we now have the stunning fox red Labrador Retrievers that we see today. And because they are often the American Lab type rather than English Lab type, they are often taller and more athletic in appearance than the paler yellow Labs. And if you live in the USA, you may have to do plenty of detective work to find one at all. You may have more luck looking for an American Lab type, from working lines. They are very intelligent and trainable, with loyal, loving personalities. Although they have the usual Lab friendliness, they can also be a little more nervous and wary of strangers and slightly high strung. Lots of socialization and plenty of attention will keep these dogs happy. Coupled with lots of exercise, and both mental and physical activities to keep them busy. Presumably because breeders are selecting for the popular deeper coat color in order to increase puppy sales. There is a lot of pressure on breeders to produce certain colors. But a responsible breeder should not choose parents purely on the basis of color. Especially when there are not large numbers of fox reds to choose from. You may be tempted to skip this — but give it a go — it might be easier than you think! Think of a Labrador as a basically black dog. Black is the default color. The black coat is caused by a pair of genes called the B genes Your dog inherits one from his mother and one from his father — in a pair — like this: BB B genes come in big or little versions. So a black dog could have a pair that look like this instead: Bb Little b carries the code necessary to make a brown coat instead of a black one. BUT, big B is dominant and switches off little b. So little b only gets a say, if two of them get together like this: bb, and when that happens, you get a chocolate Lab! This is done by two little e genes. They also come in a pair like this: ee And when they get together they have the amazing power to completely block the genes that cause black and brown coats. A lab with two little ee genes cannot have a brown or a black coat and so the coat color now defaults to yellow. Now we are getting closer to our fox red color. E genes can also be big like this: EE or mixed like this: Ee, but when that happens the big E switches off the little e, and takes away its power. Yellow vs Red Fox Lab Coats A red Lab is a variation of yellow, and every red dog has those two essential little e genes that switch off black and brown. But then it starts to get a little bit more complicated. It centers on a pigment called pheomelanin. And it is controlled by two different sets of genes. The A gene controls the production of the red color. And the C gene controls whether or not it is fully expressed or diluted. This is what makes things a little more complicated. In fact, I am still over-simplifying it a bit. Otherwise the B gene will override them. And you are back to black or brown. Fox Red Lab Breeders Your first step when bringing any Labrador into your life should be to make sure that this is the right time for you to do this. The next step is to find a reputable breeder of Labradors. Finding a nice fox red stud dog and making a list of all his recent matings is often a starting point. You are most unlikely to find a good breeder who only breeds fox reds. This is because color is not the top priority for a responsible breeder. And remember, in most yellow litters there will be a range of shades. Puppies may darken as they grow, or they may not. No breeder can guarantee you the final color of your puppy. Make sure that both parents have good hips, elbows and a clear eye test, as well as a PRA clear certificate. Then your pup will have the best chance of growing up healthy. Red Fox Lab Puppy Prices When it first starts to trend, a fashionably colored dog may be more expensive, and this is still happening to some extent with reds. My advice is to be wary of paying an unusually high price for a red lab puppy. It could indicate that you have found an unscrupulous breeder who may be cutting corners on health or other important matters. The reason I say this is because many respectable breeders will look down on selling puppies of different colors for different prices. In fact paying the same price irrespective of color could mean you have a better breeder, and a healthier pup! This shade gets increasingly darker over the first few weeks. By three weeks old they are starting to look much more like the Labrador you know and love. By the time you take them home at 8 weeks old they will have that lovely fox red shade. Not all the puppies in a litter will be the same shade, even if both of their parents are fox red themselves. Just like any other Labrador, it will be important to dedicate their first few weeks in your home to getting them settled. Starting to work on important things like potty training and setting food habits. They really benefit from positive reinforcement training. Using rewards to help encourage them to behave in a way that will help them to fit nicely into your family. Start off with no more than a few minutes of formal exercise a day when they are small puppies. And work up to any big walks or runs very gradually over time so as not to accidentally hurt them. Did you turn up here hoping to learn about red fox Labs, only to find us referring to them as fox red instead? There are no consistencies in the way fox red Lab is spelled. Whether fox red is one word or two. Or whether the fox or the red comes first. Of course, we know fox red is much more special than that. At least it means you can spell it any way you like! I tend to say fox red Labrador, you can say redfox or red fox Labrador if it makes you happy. Ultimately they are all just gorgeous Labradors, with a darker shade to their yellow coat. More about Labrador Types and Colors!

What is the Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles? Guest Contributor .Along with the joy of having a Goldendoodle as part of your family comes the responsibility of providing for their nutritional needs. Like every dog breed, Goldendoodles need a diet of high quality, nutrient-rich food to ensure they grow healthily, live vibrantly and maintain their energetic lifestyle. With the right wet or dry food for dogs , you can help them maintain their well-being and longevity. Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Goldendoodles As an active and intelligent crossbreed that is fairly energetic, Goldendoodles require a balanced diet to support their health and vitality. Understanding their dietary requirements, such as the type of protein they need, the role of carbohydrates in their diet and the importance of essential fatty acids, is the first step towards choosing the right dog food. Additionally, considering the potential health issues common to the breed can guide you toward more targeted nutritional choices. All dogs, including senior canines need a moderate to high amount of protein. To choose the best food for your Goldendoodle, look for options with the following ingredients. These sustainable ingredients can help your dog stay healthy and happy at any stage of life: High-Quality Protein Sources Goldendoodles thrive on high-quality proteins. These can be derived from various sources such as chicken, beef, lamb, fish or plant-based proteins like lentils and peas. Protein should be a priority when considering the best ingredients in dog food , as it supports muscle growth and development. Our dog food products contain ethically sourced protein for your pet. Balanced Carbohydrates for Energy Given their energetic nature, Goldendoodles need a balanced amount of carbohydrates for sustained energy. Opt for dog foods with wholesome carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice and vegetables rather than those with simple sugars and fillers. To keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny, look for foods like Rawmix dog food that include essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega.These products contain ingredients like fish oil, flaxseed and certain animal fats high in omegas. Look for dog foods that include a variety of fruits and vegetables, which are natural sources of these essential nutrients. Your pet can also get these nutrients from bone broth. There are many benefits of bone broth for dogs , including stronger bones and joints and a healthier coat. Avoid Artificial Additives, Fillers and By-Products Choose dog foods free from artificial additives, fillers and by-products to provide your Goldendoodle with the most nutritious meals. These ingredients can be harmful over time and offer little to no nutritional value. Always opt for natural, wholesome ingredients when possible. All our dog food at Open Farm contains natural, sustainable ingredients. We never use artificial fillers or by-products; instead, we help you provide your pet with high-quality proteins, carbohydrates and fats to promote an improved quality of life. How much should I feed my Goldendoodle? To know how much I should feed my dog , consider their age, size, activity level and health. Should I choose grain-free or grain-inclusive dog food? If your dog has grain allergies or sensitivities, stick to a grain-free option. If not, consider dog food with healthy grains, like brown rice or millet, for the best nutrition. Can my Goldendoodle eat freeze dried food? When thinking about is freeze dried food good for dogs , it depends on the quality of the food. If your Goldendoodle is thriving on its current diet, there may be no need to change. However, if you notice signs of food intolerance or your dog seems unenthusiastic about their food, it might be time to try something new. Share this post. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Feeding your puppy meat meal is by no means an inherently bad thing. The owner pouring dog food in a bowl. Acana Regionals Grassland The main ingredients in Acana Regionals Grassland are deboned lamb, deboned duck, eggs, lamb meal, and goat meal. Most dog foods use one type of protein, which is perfectly fine, but your Goldendoodle can benefit from eating multiple types of protein. In that case, I strongly recommend considering Acana Regionals Grassland. When to stop soaking puppy food? This brand is among my highest recommended dog foods because of its well-roundedness. The Pomeranian puppy stands in front of a bowl. Unfortunately, some foods are difficult to digest, and in some cases, that can lead to digestion-related health issues, which no owner wants for their growing Goldendoodle. Also, even though this is for bigger breed puppies, there are multiple kibble sizes, so you can get the best size for your puppy to eat. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. Some people mention how small the size of the kibble bag is, as the largest bag you can get is .However, depending on how much you feed your Goldendoodle a day, this amount of food can go relatively quickly, so you can spend quite a bit of money on buying new bags frequently. Giving a Jack Russell Terrier a dog food. Due to the sheer number of dog foods you can find, deciding on one is difficult because it might not offer your puppy all the things you desire. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Not all dog foods are created equal, nor is it a one-size-fits-all situation. Always talk to your vet about the best food choice for your goldendoodle. The protein content in your dog's food should not only be high, it should also be high-quality protein. There are many options available for high quality dog food. Congratulations on your new family member! Your adorable, teddy bear-like bundle of energy and cuddles known as a goldendoodle puppy, who has inherited intelligence , friendliness, and sociability from both of its parent breeds golden retriever and poodle. Obviously, you want a high-quality dog food, so you're probably wondering, "What is the best puppy food? Best Puppy Food for Your Goldendoodle There are a lot of requirements and factors to consider when you're selecting a pet food for your goldendoodle puppy. However, most high-quality puppy foods should be formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of your goldendoodle at any life stage. You should think about: Your puppy's weight and size Your puppy's nutritional needs. It should promote good health and prolong life. When determining what to feed dogs, you should consider their breed, age, size, and activity levels. Since a miniature Goldendoodle is slightly active, it should eat more proteins than grains. We will disclose seventeen of the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles below. Moreover, we will answer frequently asked questions. As a first-time parent to a miniature Goldendoodle, you should read food labels. Check the ingredient list to see if a dog food product can nourish your mini Goldendoodle. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles will provide a protein-rich ingredient as the first thing on the label. If the dog food has grains, they should be the lowest quantity on the label. A miniature Goldendoodle has a higher metabolic rate. Hence, dry dog food for Mini Goldendoodles alone is inadequate. Consider buying food with meat additives. It will keep your puppy more energetic and healthier. You will locate the most appropriate item for a puppy or a senior pet in our list of the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. Also, you will discover the products that most veterinarians prefer and the items that can give you the best value for your money. It contains USDA-approved chicken liver, chicken, and brussels sprouts. Every cup of this fresh food provides up to calories. We picked it as our first choice because the highest ingredient on the list is chicken, a rich protein food. This is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles as it contains forty-nine percent protein, thirty-seven percent fat, seven-point-five percent moisture, and one percent fiber. They also provide omega-3 fatty acids that could promote brain health. We like this dog food because it has no synthetic additives or preservatives. Above all, dog parents can choose from three other proteins: pork, beef, and turkey. The way you select food for your pet is easy. Wait for the company to send you a list of the best recipes for your dog. Lastly, this is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with a subscription plan. Once you choose a subscription, the company will send you dog food consistently. Pros The dog food is hypoallergenic. You can receive a dog-specific recipe. Cons 2. Ollie Fresh Dog Food Here is another choice of fresh dog food for your pet. Ollie produces the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. This product is subscription only. As its top ingredients are protein-based, Ollie Fresh Dog Food is safe to buy. The protein content in this product consists of beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb. You can make fresh or wet food using beef, lamb, chicken, and turkey recipes. As for dry or baked food, Ollie gives you two recipes with beef or chicken. Its food is nutritious since it has antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries and chia seeds. It also has sweet potatoes, which contain a lot of vitamin A and other nutrients. Ollie Fresh Dog Food provides a quiz to help customers pick the correct pet recipes. Pros Can offer recipes for dry and wet food for Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Ollie uses fresh and natural ingredients. Slow-cooking and freezing retain all nutrients. You can serve your dog almost the same type of food you have at home. Cons Only dog owners from the continental U. S can buy this dog. You can only buy it by subscription. This dog food looks like a messy powder. You can make food recipes with deboned beef and salmon. We love this miniature Goldendoodle food for its high convenience and safety. Unlike other dog food products, we have described, this has no chicken recipe. If your Mini Goldendoodle dislikes chicken flavors, this food type fits it best. You can serve it as an only meal or use it as another meal topper. When going out with your pet, you can bring Merrick Backcountry Raw Meal as a snack. Pros Dog food is easy to serve. Your pet can digest it easily. Ideal for dogs that dislike chicken. It has deboned beef. Some customers dislike freeze-dried food. Storage of unused food can be challenging. This dog food is expensive. Cesar Classic Cesar has the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. One of its top-selling products is the Cesar Classic. It is a wet option with many flavors. It provides ninety-one to one hundred and five calories. We highly recommend this loaf to any person with a small budget as it is affordable. You can choose beef, fillet mignon, grilled chicken, or porterhouse steak flavors. All flavors are delicious and soft enough for your miniature dog to chew and digest. If you have a senior dog with teeth problems, you might want to get it this meal. Pros This dog food is soft and easy to chew. A high-quality food product without grains. All ingredients are available in the USA. It is an affordable high-protein diet. Cons 5. It is dry dog food with a high protein content of twenty-five percent. Each cup will give your pet up to calories. Fourteen percent fat is a safe concentration for your dog. Other protein sources are soybean meal, sorghum, and dried beans. We would recommend this diet to owners of adult Mini Goldendoodles. The small puppies might not chew this kibble as it is too big for them. In terms of nutrition, this diet contains omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. These omega nutrients can improve coat and brain health. It is among dog foods with healthy levels of protein. An affordable dog food product. This dog food has energetic whole foods. Cons Small dogs might not handle the kibble size. This food is so oily. This dry dog food has fewer calories. If your adult dog needs to cut some weight or maintain a fit body, the Blue Buffalo food can help it. As you can guess, this adult dog food has the highest protein concentration. As a result, it can help your dog build some lean muscles. Pros Blue Buffalo is a low-fat dog food. Contains no fillers, additives, or by-products of grains, poultry, or dog meal. Ideal for weight loss and maintenance. This food is high in protein. Cons Some dogs disliked this product. It may not fit dogs with sensitive guts. Nutro gives you two flavor choices: brown rice and chicken. The dry kibble provides up to calories per cup. Protein content makes up twenty-eight percent of this dog meal. This product is a balanced diet for your puppy because it has nutrients for promoting body and brain development. Your Mini Goldendoodle will have strong bones, healthy skin, and a glossy coat. Instead, the Nutro Nature Choice diet has kale, spinach, bran, brown rice, pumpkin, and rice bran. All these are healthy foods. Pros A high-quality non-GMO dog food. Boasts high protein levels. An exclusive kibble for puppies. Cons The brand is hard to locate in stores. Slightly expensive for some puppy lovers. One dog food product that could give you exactly that is Sold Gold Wee Bit. It has whole foods like brown rice, pearled barley, and real bison. It is a holistic dog food without any potatoes. The ingredients label shows that this dog meal has a balanced amount of protein, fat, and fiber. Consult about the suitability of this as the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with sensitive stomach. A high-fiber diet can prevent constipation and can also cause an upset stomach. Pros A nutritious dog food item with adequate nutrients. Sold Gold dog food has an ideal bite size for miniature pets. This is a high fiber diet. Cons 9. This dog food is fit for miniature Goldendoodle puppies as it has more protein. Its four recipes include water buffalo, lamb, egg product, and sweet potatoes. The fat content is seventeen percent. You can purchase bags weighing five, fourteen, or twenty-eight pounds. The protein content comes from water buffalo, venison, and bison. The Taste of the Wild has also added fruits and vegetables like blueberries, raspberries, and peas to this product. These are high in antioxidants. Your little pet can also get adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from this dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. We have not found another dog food with probiotics and prebiotics. Hence, this puppy food can help dogs with stomach problems. Pros An adequate level of proteins. Has fruits and vegetables for healthier skin. Antioxidants reduce inflammation in the body. The product has nutrients that improve gut health. It has zero artificial fillers, additives, or preservatives. Cons Some puppies might excrete loose stools. Costly dog food. Solution Sensitivities. This is dry dog food with a salmon flavor. Each cup of this dog food provides calories. The fat and fiber portions are twelve and four-point-five percent respectively. This kibble has ten percent moisture content. Solutions Sensitivities is an affordable dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with sensitive bellies. Its nutrients are easy to digest. The product has no allergens or unsafe artificial additives. Instead, it contains a high-fiber food called chicory root plus coconut oil, chickpeas, and peas. Due to salmon, this best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles from Go! Solutions have high omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Hence, it will give your pet a healthy coat and skin. Pros Go! Solutions Sensitivities Dog Food has salmon protein. Dogs can digest nutrients fast. This dog food has no synthetic chemicals. You can buy it for puppies with digestive difficulties. Ideal for underweight puppies. This is a high-calorie diet unsuitable for obese dogs. Healthy puppies could get overweight. We have picked it as the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles because of this simple fact. Adult dogs weighing nine to twenty-two pounds can eat this high-quality dog food. Another good thing about this best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles is that it can potentially boost brain development. However, we dislike that this dog food provides low protein content and more grains. Pros Appropriate kibble size for small pets. Can give your pet more energy. It can boost skin and brain health. Cons .Protein comes from pork meat, chicken fat, and beef. Victor Classic Hi-Pro is also a grain-based dog diet without gluten. Eighty-eight percent of that protein comes from meat. This dog food can boost immunity through nutrients like selenium and omega fatty acids. Again, the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles by Victor Classic can assist dogs with poor gut health via healthy prebiotics and probiotics. Pros Contains nutrients fit for the immune system. This dog food can boost gut health. Dogs in all life stages can eat Victor Classic Hi-Pro dog food. It has a super high level of protein. Cons It might make some pets have an upset stomach. Some dogs dislike the flavor. The dry kibble has up to thirty-four percent protein, the highest we have seen. One cup of kibble contains calories, making this a high-energy diet. The fat content is half the amount of protein, fiber is three-point-five percent, and moisture is ten percent. If your miniature Goldendoodle loves non-stop play, it can replenish its energy levels with the Crave High Protein Dry Food. As this dog food formula has no grains, it will work for dogs that dislike cereals. Additionally, dogs that require nourishment from grains might not benefit from this item. It contains a high amount of protein. Provides a healthy level of fat content. Cons Can cause obesity in dormant pets. This dog food has no grains. Hence, it could be a perfect choice for an obese miniature Goldendoodle. Offering up to forty-six percent protein from rabbit meat and thirty-two percent fats, this dog food is super healthy. Additional nutrients are five percent fiber and an equal amount of moisture. Finding a high-quality raw dog food product like this is difficult. Thus, you are lucky to read this article on the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles today. It also contains organ meat, bone, fruits, and vegetables. Offering up to 50,, CFU live prebiotics, this raw dog food can boost gut health. Pros Raw rabbit is not an allergen. This dog food has live prebiotics. You can serve raw rabbit food as the main meal or as a topper. High protein dog food. Stella and Chewy is expensive dog food. Some dogs might dislike the food texture. It is in the form of delicious treats for your small dog. Including four different flavors, these treats offer flexibility when selecting the most appropriate taste for your pet. We made this product among the best choices because it is high in protein. It also has other pure ingredients. You can serve it to your pet as it has no gluten or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This dog food is in the form of jerky sticks. Pros This dog food is high in protein from venison and beef. Treats have no grains as the main ingredient. The only flavor of this dry kibble is chicken. If your senior dog loves chicken meat, the Iams Proactive Dog Food could be ideal for it. It has calories per cup and is up to twenty-four percent protein. This dog food has a lower fat content of .It is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles who seven years are and above. Pros A recipe with nutritious free-range chicken meat. Chicken fat can enhance skin health. Ideal for older dogs. This kibble can cause bloating. Some small dogs might not like this kibble size. However, it might only work best for you if you have another high-protein dog meal. However, its fat content of 1. For healthy miniature Goldendoodles, this food alone might not provide adequate protein. Pros Perfect for dogs with indigestion symptoms. Proteins that take a short time to digest. Cons A prescription is a must to get this Mini Goldendoodle puppy food. An expensive food product. FAQs 1. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles puppies is the one you will select from our long list. Mini Goldendoodles do not necessarily need a grain-free diet. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles should have a low number of whole grains for fiber, antioxidants, etc. Ensure a product that has grains also has protein as the highest ingredient. Grains should be gluten-free to prevent stomach issues. Choosing the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles is not enough. You should feed the dog adequate food for its body size and weight. Older dogs should eat four to five cups twice a day. After finding thebest dog food for Mini Goldendoodles, feed your puppy according to its age. Small dogs should eat more often but in small portions. Larger dogs should eat big portions twice daily. We highly recommend Iams Proactive food for Mini Goldendoodles puppy. This dog food is a specific product for senior dogs. Related Posts. Here, is what you need to know about the best dog food to feed your Goldendoodle. Here in this blog, we have covered all the information about the best food for Goldendoodles. What are the nutritional needs of your Goldendoodle dog? According to pet nutrition experts, dogs are different from true carnivores like cats. It means they are meat-eaters primarily but they can also survive on plants. An appropriate diet for a dog is a meal with a high concentration of protein with moderate fat content and limited carbohydrates. Protein is the main component for puppies to grow and develop properly. For adult dogs, it helps in building muscles and healthy body weight. Fat provides a good source of energy for your dog. The best dog food for your Goldendoodle must contain as much protein and essential nutrients. List of the best food for Goldendoodle Goldendoodle deserves the best and healthy diet for proper and healthy growth. Here are some of the best options to feed your Goldendoodle. It consists of chicken as the main ingredient with real fruits and veggies in a meaty broth. Merrick Limited Diet Its major ingredients are chicken and brown rice and are free from soy, dairy, artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors. Taste Of The Wild Ancient Prairie This dog food is a roasted bison and roasted venison recipe made with ancient whole grains. It consists of ingredients like ancient grains which are higher in fiber. This food consists of proteins like chicken, lamb, and salmon for a boost of nutrition. American Journey This dog food consists of large-breed salmon, menhaden fish, and brown rice as a source of carbohydrates protein to provide a high protein diet to your Goldendoodle. Nulo Senior Grain-Free Recipe Dry Food High nutritious food including glucosamine and chondroitin to give joint support this Goldendoodle food is the best-categorized food for your dog. This trout and sweet potato recipe provides a complete and healthy balanced meal for your senior Goldendoodle. Nom Fresh Dog Food This dog food acquired the first rank in best dog food for Goldendoodles according to scientific research. It is a cleaner and healthier food which makes your dog hungry to eat this because of its great look and taste. Purina Pro Plan The food consists of a good amount of fiber to give a healthy and strong immune to your Goldendoodle. Also, it holds the second position among the best dog foods. American Journey Puppy The best and idle food for puppies of Goldendoodles. It consists of tons of crude proteins, and plenty of omega 3s, and is a good source of protein. Here we provide some information about dry, wet, and raw dog food so that you can understand the difference and pick up the best type for your Goldendoodle. Dry Dog Food Dry dog food is the most popular and preferred choice among dog food varieties. They consist of tons of nutrients and a very good taste due to a freeze-dried coating. Wet Dog Food The next option dog owners go for is wet dog food. It consists of dog food with added perks that your dog loves to eat. Raw Dog Food Now, it comes to the last option, raw dog food. It is approximately equivalent to human food and thus it provides the highest quality. Also, it is the favorite and the first choice of picky eaters. All the best foods illustrated here have a more than sufficient amount of protein. Salty foods Foods that contain a lot of sugar Raw food diet items like eggs or raw or undercooked meat can contain salmonella no, the raw diet is not healthy for dogs Why should I feed my Goldendoodle a raw diet? Here are potential risks: You could expose your furry friend to the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw meat can be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. How often should a Goldendoodle eat? When your Goldendoodle is a pup, you should feed them 2 to 3 times a day. Goldendoodle puppies should be eating a puppy formula specifically designed for their growing bodies. P uppy food contains higher fat than adult dog food. Adult dogs should eat at least once a day. Most people will feed their Goldendoodle twice a day as their Goldendoodle tends to be more content with the twice-a-day feeding. When you feed Goldendoodle a few times a day, they are less likely to have any food aggression and will stay full longer. This will help prevent them from destroying things in the house or eating things that they should not eat. How much should a Goldendoodle eat? Usually, the feeding guidelines are on the back of the bag. Sometimes this is a little more than your Goldendoodle needs , especially if they are not very active. A good rule to follow is 1 cup of food per 15 pounds of body weight a day. So a pound dog should eat about 1. You will also need to consider their exercise. Some Goldendoodles may participate in agility or other sporting events. During their training and competition months, you will need to increase their dog food intake to make up for the extra energy, whereas in the off-season, you need to decrease the amount of dog food they eat to help keep them at a healthy weight. What if My Goldendoodle is a picky eater? If your Goldendoodle is a picky eater , there are a few things that you can do to help entice them to start eating their dog food. Add Warm Water to Their food You can try to add a little bit of warm water to their dog food. This will make a gravy-like consistency when mixed with the dry kibbles. It will also make the dry kibble a little softer, and your Goldendoodle may like to eat it. Just a small spoon full added to the food and fully mixed will help. If you do not mix the wet dog food in with the dry food, your Goldendoodle may just eat the wet food off the top and leave the rest of the dry kibble. Switching Diets or Protein Source There may be something in the diet that you are feeding that they do not like. Switching to a different diet or a different protein may help. If you are feeding chicken and rice, try switching a lamb and rice or a duck protein. See Your Vet If your Goldendoodle has suddenly stopped eating their dog food, it may be time to see your vet. Some illnesses will cause your dog not to want to eat. Your vet can examine your Goldendoodle and make sure that there is nothing causing your dog to feel bad to cause them to not want to eat. There are many great treats that are available for your Goldendoodle. Some of these treats also have added nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and supplements that have health benefits too. You can also give your dog fish oil supplements to ensure they are getting enough omega-3 fatty acids, which help with brain development and keeps their coat healthy. Glucosamine can help their joints, which is great for this breed since hip dysplasia is common in both the Golden Retriever and Poodle parent breeds. And a simple multivitamin can help support their immune system. If your Goldendoodle has joint or skin issues, look for a treat that will help with these problems. These treats have added calories that can quickly cause your Goldendoodle to become obese. This means they can carry some traits from their parent breeds, which may even affect their diets. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider when choosing the right food for your Goldendoodle. For instance, adult food can be fed on both wet and dry food. Again, adult dog food needs more protein and fewer calories, while Goldendoodle puppies need more calories. Nutritional Life Stage According to Dr. The table below shows the growth stages and nutritional requirements for Goldendoodles. More importantly, always check with an expert for professional dietary guidance. Nutritional Life Stage.

More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. At Echocreek Poodles our goal is to provide loving companion and show families with beautiful healthy black miniature poodles. Our poodle puppies are beautiful, and intelligent with superior dispositions. We love giving references so you can hear, first hand, happy owners brag about our poodles. We have been breeding for 20 years so we have lots of references including our veterinarian who oversees our program. We breed black Miniatures and occasionally have a brown puppy. We are extremely conscientious about the long-term health of our dogs so we breed only healthy poodles with wonderful temperaments. This ensures healthy, sound pups. Our puppies are raised in our home with our family. They are well socialized from an early age. Each poodle puppy is priced according to it's own merit. Pet puppies are sold with a neuter contract as well as a limited AKC registration and are not to be bred. Puppies sold for the purpose of showing are by contractual agreement. To be added to our waiting list we require a deposit. Your deposit is a guarantee that you want the puppy and cannot be refunded. Please make sure you have thought of all the responsibilities of a new puppy before you make a commitment. We do ask for references before we place our dogs with anyone. Of course we give our references as well, including our veterinarian of over 15 years. New Echocreek Champion !!! For your friendship and for so beautifully presenting our girl! She finished with her second 5 pt Major over Specials! Daughter of Nicki. Beautifully presented by Sara Brooks. Shown by Sara Brooks. Finished with 3 majors at just 9 months September ! Bred by Terry Wellman. Owned by Cynthia Sublett. Shown by Sharon Svoboda and team. Bred by June Bierwas, Juniper Poodles. Presented by Sheila Basinger. Bred by June Bierwas. Please browse the rest of our website to see more of our dogs. Breeds The link has been copied! The Black Poodle is a widely sought after type of Poodle due to its elegant coat and charming personality. It is a coloration that can be present in various sizes of Poodles, including Standard, Miniature, Moyen , and Toy Poodles. Like all other colors of Poodle, black poodles are descended from water-retriever dogs. They have a long history of being both working dogs and companion dogs. There is a dispute about whether the Poodle originated in Germany or France. Either way, Poodles were originally working dogs bred to retrieve shot game and lost arrows. Poodles are a popular dog breed for several reasons. They are intelligent and friendly. They have a beautiful and striking appearance. Also, they have certain hypoallergenic qualities. Black Poodle Appearance and Genetics A black poodle can either have solid black fur over its entire body, or black along with another color. Black Poodles have black eyes, lips, noses, and toes. Entirely black Poodles are one of the most popular Poodle colorations due to their striking appearance. A genuine black Poodle does not have any white or silver tint in its fur. Poodles have both an outer and inner coat. The outer coat is the one that is easily visible. The inner coat is beneath the outer coat and is not so easy to see. All black Poodles have a black outer coat, but some have an inner coat that appears blue or gray. Having a blue or gray inner coat can make the black outer coat appear lighter. Standard Poodles are over 15 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 40 and 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles are classified as being between 10 and 15 inches tall and weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. The smallest size category is the Toy Poodle, which is under 10 inches tall and weighs only 4 to 6 pounds. Moyen Poodles fall between Miniature and Standard Poodles in their size and weight. Usually, Moyen Poodles are 15 to 19 inches and weigh 15 to 25 pounds. The Moyen Poodle is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, but with its growing popularity, it may be recognized soon. Fans of the Moyen Poodle praise their medium size. Their size makes them well suited to being lapdogs but also large enough to keep up with their owners during physical activities and outdoor adventures. You can learn more about the Moyen Poodle here. Regardless of what size category they fall into, all Poodles naturally have a muscular but slim form. Poodles also have long muzzles. Their fur is either corded or curled. Poodle fur is known to require high maintenance. What Causes Black Fur? The black fur color seen in black Poodles is caused by the same process that determines the coat colors of all dogs. These pigments are eumelanin and pheomelanin. To make it simple, if genes connected to eumelanin are dominant within a dog, that dog will have a black coat. The gene that leads to black fur is stronger than the gene for other coat colors. This means that it is easier to breed black Poodles even if they only have a small amount of eumelanin in their genetics. Black Poodle puppies can be born even if neither of the parents have black fur. This can happen if one of their ancestors further back had black fur. The genes that lead to black fur on Poodles do not have an effect on the Poodles' personality or health. Are Silver Poodles Born Black? Some silver or gray Poodles are born silver or gray. But some black Poodles do eventually turn silver or gray. There are two ways a black Poodle can end up turning silver or gray. The fur of true black Poodles does eventually start to turn gray, but this happens gradually when they transition from an adult to a senior dog. In this type of graying, the gray fur will not always spread to the entire body. Often, the graying will start around the muzzle and spread from there. In some cases, a Poodle can be born black and gray prematurely over the first two years of its life. It can be hard or even impossible to tell if a black Poodle puppy will remain truly black. Are Black Poodles Friendly? Black Poodles, when raised with proper training and socialization, are just as friendly as any other coloration of Poodle. Poodles are energetic dogs, so they need exercise every day. They are also intelligent, and thus need mental stimulation as well as physical stimulation. Though well-trained black Poodles are no different from other Poodles in their temperament, they unfortunately face a stigma due to their coat color. Several causes for black dog syndrome have been suggested. Often, large black dogs are portrayed as violent and intimidating in movies and television shows. Black dogs are also known to not photograph as well as lighter colored dogs. The only notable difference is that dirt and tangling can be harder to see on dark coats. Short haircuts are a popular choice for Poodles, since this makes their coils or curly fur easier to manage. Poodles need to be groomed daily. They also need to visit the groomer regularly, unless you feel comfortable trimming their coat at home. Poodles are naturally slim dogs. It is easy for them to become overweight if their diet is not properly monitored. It is important to talk to a vet about the best diet for your black Poodle. One thing that dog owners often forget is that treats used in training can add up in calories over time. Black Poodle Health The genes that cause a black coat in Poodles are not known to be connected to any health issues. As such, monitoring the health of a black Poodle is similar to monitoring the health of any other shade of Poodle. It is important to note that the likelihood of certain health conditions occurring can be affected by the size of the Poodle. Poodles can be affected by a wide variety of health ailments, but there are several that are especially common within the breed. These include: Dental problems All dogs are susceptible to dental problems, including tartar buildup and gingivitis. Heart problems The category of "heart problems" covers a wide array of issues that can affect all dogs. This includes heart murmurs and arrhythmias. Hip and elbow dysplasia Hip and elbow dysplasia refers to painful abnormalities in the hip and elbow bones. Patellar Luxation Patellar Luxation is an abnormality in the kneecap that can cause issues with mobility. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive Retinal Atrophy refers to a group of diseases that cause photoreceptor cells in the eyes to degenerate, resulting in reduced vision. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous Adenitis is a condition that affects the sebaceous glands. These are the glands in the skin that keep skin and fur healthy. When these stop working properly, damage to the skin and fur will result. This is by no means a complete list of health issues that can affect Poodles. Regular checkups at the vet are a must for any dog. Other Poodle Colors Poodles are known for having a wide variety of coat colors. These various coat colors do not lead to any differences in temperament. Possibly the most popular shade of Poodle next to the black Poodle is the white Poodle. Many people feel that white fur makes Poodles appear more soft and cuddly. Brown Poodles come in a variety of shades, from dark brown to a more tan color. Red and apricot are rarer than most other colors of Poodle. Their fur has hues of copper or auburn within it. Apricot is usually considered to be the color most recently introduced to Poodle breeding, so it is more difficult to breed. Not all gray Poodles are senior dogs. Poodles can be born gray. Or, as discussed earlier, they can gray prematurely. Conclusion Even once you have decided to bring a Poodle into your life, you still have many options when it comes to the size and coloration of your new pup. No matter your living situation or personal preferences, between the Toy, Miniature, Moyen, and Standard Poodle, there is sure to be a size that will work for you. And with their multitude of coat colors, you can be certain to find a pup that fits your aesthetic tastes. Many regard the black Poodle as the most beautiful and elegant of all Poodle colorations, and it is easy to see why. Still, with their friendly and energetic personalities, any type of Poodle is sure to bring light into your life. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions!

This hybrid is known for being highly unpredictable when it comes to distinguishing character traits. Even with a litter of puppies, you can expect each puppy to look different from one another. To get an in-depth understanding of possibilities, we need to look at the parents. If a Toy Poodle is the parent, the offspring is sometimes referred to as a Toy Doxiepoo. This dog is most noted for high intelligence, easy trainability, and a friendly temperament. It does well as a family dog, especially around children. Poodles excel in dog competitions. They are quick to learn commands and obey on a whim. This also makes them well-behaved, low-maintenance pets. The Poodle is famous for its luxurious coat of tight-knit curls. This type of coat is low-shedding and touted as hypoallergenic. I mean, a curly-coated Poodle mixed with a short-legged Dachshund? The Dachshund is a hunting breed, which explains their love for chasing down tennis balls they were used to hunt small critters. Though loving and affectionate, the Dachshund has a stubborn streak. This can make training a bit of a challenge. They are also known to bark a lot, but training can break this habit in a heartbeat. The Dachshund coat comes in numerous colors and textures, which plays a big role in how much a Doxiepoo will shed. Dachshunds exhibit short, long or wired hair. Expect low to moderate shedding, depending on the type of coat. Also, this breed is not hypoallergenic. What does a Doxipoo look like? You, as the dog owner, must be open and have no expectations. Keeping the Poodle and Dachshund in mind, the size of Doxiepoo can be small to medium, growing anywhere from 17 to 23 in 43 to 58 cm and weighing from 10 to 30 lbs 4 to 13 kg. The coat colors of a Daxiedoodle can be any combination of black, gray, white, brown or tan. This video starring Doxiepoo puppies showcases just how varied a litter can be. Is the Doxipoo hypoallergenic? Shedding is low to moderate, depending on the long or short hair it may inherit from the Dachshund. As for Doxiepoo grooming, daily brushing will ensure minimum shedding. If a breeder guarantees that a litter of Doxiepoo puppies is hypoallergenic- this is a big red flag. No one can ensure the traits of a hybrid! Doxipoo temperament and behavior You can rest assured that the Doxiepoo is a good family dog. These crossbreeds are well-behaved and loving, though sometimes they do tend to love a bit too much. The Doxiepoo wants to be the only fur baby in your life, and it has been known to not take well to other pets in the household. They are also prone to incessant barking. If you welcome a mini guard that will alert you to any outside danger, the Doxiepoo will not fail you. Doxiepoo training: easy or challenging? The Dachshund Poodle mix can go two ways with training. The Poodle is as quick and reliable as a dog can get, but a Dachshund is a stubborn fellow indeed. The key is to start them young. Early socialization will help Doxipoo pups accept other pets. Exposure to other dogs at the dog park can help with this. Consistent obedience training emphasis on consistent will make the Dachshund Poodle mix obedient, confident, and calm. Maintaining a patient and positive attitude whilst training is also important. Praise your Doxiepoo and reward her with treats. Never yell or use excessive force. Keeping your Dachshund Poodle mix fit The best way to combat disease is by making sure your Doxiepoo gets 60 minutes of exercise per day. Also, this breed is quite hyperactive and needs to burn energy to keep from chewing up your favorite shoes or digging up the petunias. Take your little furball for a walk around the block or to the dog park for some socialization and playtime. Feeding a Doxipoo This breed has a voracious appetite and struggles with obesity. Keep it light on the treats and control the menu each day- never let your dog overeat. A good rule of thumb is to feed your Dachshund Poodle mix 1. Divide this amount into 3 meals. How much are Doxiepoo puppies? Why such a wide range? When it comes to designer dogs, especially one as mixed as the Doxipoo, you want to be informed about your decision. Ethical breeders will tell you that they cannot guarantee how a litter of puppies will turn out, but they can tell you about the puppies parents. They will be happy to meet you at the breeding facility and show you around. Also, ask for testimonials. Reputable Doxiepoo breeders will be able to show their worth by telling you about past transactions with happy customers. They guarantee that the puppy will act or look a certain way. You ask to visit where the puppies grew up, but the breeder refuses. Dachshund Poodle mixes end up at rescue centers this way. They are friendly, intelligent, people-oriented and are loyal to their families. The Doxie is comfortable to be around children and pets, but supervision is recommended. Though, these dogs often pick up the bad traits of its parents, like the stubborn behavior of the Dachshund. The Doxiepoo is mischievous and funny that would love to dig and play around or get cuddled. They would often develop excessive barking behaviors, which might at times be obnoxious, but adds to its quality of being a good watchdog. Care Exercise These little dogs do not need heavy exercise schedules because of their little size. Only a fair amount of exercise and play session keeps them fit. Take your doxie out for a walk every day, since they stay happy walking and running outdoors. Grooming Shedding mainly depends on the nature of the coat your pet doxie was born. General grooming is essential for the dog, though. Brush their coat few times a week, or even daily, to avoid matting and retain the natural sheen. But if you decide to keep it long, grooming them occasional by professional hands is recommended. For curlier poodle-like coats, clip them once in every 1 to 2 months. Health Problems Crossbreed dogs are generally healthy, and so is the doxiepoo. The only health concern might be genetically transmitted or hereditary diseases. Skin and nasal allergies can also be a concern to your doxiepoo. Those with longer or denser hair types might be even more susceptible to these conditions. Training By virtue of its inherited intelligence, training your doxiepoo is not at all tough. They would pick up training very quickly, though, at times might display obstinate behavior. This can easily be resolved by means of rewards and positive reinforcements. Begin your obedience training at its puppy-age and allowing them socialize frequently. This should keep a check on possible behavioral issues like barking habits and stubbornness, as they grow up. Insist on a raw meat diet. At that, a chicken meal can be the first choice, especially for the pups. There is also liver, lamb meal, salmon meal, and other mineral-enriched dog foods that we generally serve to the dogs of its size, with the same health history. If you feed your dog with dry kibble, be sure they are of high quality. Interesting Facts The doxiepoo breed is popular in the Southern states. Doxiepoo has been immortalized in a kitschy pin on web site eBay. Since they differ so much from each other by appearance, identifying a doxiepoo puppy is tough. Doxiepoos are intelligent, self-confident, and spirited little pups. Little is known about how the mixed breed came to be, but dachshund and poodle mixes have become a favorite thanks to their cute appearance and affectionate personalities. Doxiepoos have moderate energy levels and a high need for mental stimulation, and these mixed breed dogs are big barkers that aren't afraid to sound the alarm, says Jennifer Gregory, vice president of Doxie by Proxy Rescue. Appearance The doxiepoo is not a pure breed and, with no breed standard for how these mixed breed dogs should look, there are an infinite number of factors influencing their appearance. Depending on the traits inherited from his parent breed, your doxiepoo can be short and long like a dachshund but covered in curly poodle hair. Or, he might have longer legs and a more petite build like his poodle parent with the straight hair and long noses that define dachshunds. He can also come in a range of colors, including black, brown, grey, cream, white, and numerous color patterns. Though no dog is completely hypoallergenic , poodles' curly, low-shedding hair is often well-suited for people who tend to be sneezy around dogs. A doxiepoo's size can also be hard to pin down. Poodles can be toy , miniature , and standard sizes while dachshunds are either miniature or standard. Doxiepoos are a cross between either dachshund variety and a toy or miniature poodle. This means full-grown doxiepoos can stand anywhere between 5—15 inches tall and weigh 5—30 pounds. Both dachshunds and poodles are known for being self-confident, playful, affectionate with their families, and good with other dogs. Gregory often describes doxiepoos as, " small dogs with big dog personalities. A lot. Doxiepoos tend to be big barkers , too, and want to sound the alarm every time the doorbell rings, a squirrel runs past, and the mail is delivered, which makes most ill-suited to apartment living. Courtesy of dox-atlas. He'll love spending time with his family and will happily accept the role of lap dog. Even strangers can quickly win over a doxiepoo, making fast friends with the pint-sized pooches—especially if treats are involved. Living Needs As small dogs, doxiepoos don't need wide open spaces to thrive. With regular walks or backyard playtime, the breed can live happily in cities, suburbs, or rural areas—but think twice before bringing a doxiepoo into an apartment or townhouse. Not only may their frequent barking rack up noise complaints from the neighbors, doxiepoos with short legs and long, dachshund-like backs may struggle climbing up the stairs, especially as they get older. Doxiepoos can get along well with family members of all ages, but Gregory recommends homes with older children or no children for small breed dogs—they can be more easily injured if a child drops them or trips over them. But if you teach your kids how to properly interact with pets , a doxiepoo could be the perfect buddy for your family. Both dachshunds and poodles are known to get along well with other dogs, but their historic hunting instincts could cause them to see other small animals as something to chase. Introductions to cats and other small animals should be done slowly, with caution and supervision. Care Most doxiepoos require minimal grooming; all it takes is regular brushing and the occasional bath to keep most doxiepoo coats looking their best. But Gregory says those who inherit a coat similar to their poodle parent, or those who have wiry hair or long locks, will need extra grooming and an occasional trip to a professional to prevent matting. Regardless of their coat type, doxiepoos need regular nail trims , ear cleanings , and routine dental care. Doxiepoos hail from athletic stock; poodles and dachshunds were both bred to hunt. The poodle is known as a "duck dog" in France because the breed started out as a retrieving water dog, and the dachshund was bred to burrow into holes in search of badgers. Doxiepoos aren't known as great hunting dogs, but they often retain the energy levels of their athletic working ancestors. Courtesy of the. Choose activities that challenge their intelligent poodle side and appeal to their independent dachshund natures. Training with treats is always a hit! Poodles are super smart and dachshunds are known for being curious—traits that could get doxiepoos into trouble. Regular physical and mental stimulation hello, puzzle toys will help your doxiepoo burn off some energy and alleviate boredom. Health Doxiepoos have a long lifespan , living anywhere between 10—18 years. While mixed breed dogs are generally believed to have fewer health issues than purebred dogs, doxiepoos are prone to some of the same health problems as their parent breeds. Dachshunds, with their long backs, are prone to the disease and doxiepoos that share a similar stature might be affected, too. IVDD causes severe pain, impairs movement, and, in severe cases, can lead to partial paralysis. Medication can be used to treat IVDD, but surgery may also be required. Gregory suggests helping doxiepoos maintain a healthy weight and prohibiting them from jumping on or off the furniture to minimize the risk of back injuries and IVDD. Small breeds like the dachshund and poodle are also at higher risk of luxating patella , a condition triggered when the kneecap patella moves out of its normal location luxates and makes it hard for dogs to put weight on the affected leg. While it's often not painful, more severe causes can cause chronic dislocation, which puts doxiepoos at higher risk of other injuries such as torn cruciate ligaments. History While not much is known about how doxiepoos came to be, their parent breeds both have long and strikingly similar histories. Both dachshunds and poodles hail from Germany, and both were bred as hunting dogs. Dachshunds were bred with long, lean bodies that allowed them to burrow into holes in pursuit of badgers. Poodles, on the other hand, had the waterproof coats and strong swimming abilities needed to retrieve ducks from the water. The dachshund and poodle mix first appeared around , and their playful natures, small stature, and sometimes-hypoallergenic coats have made them a beloved designer breed. Fun Facts You might sometimes hear doxiepoos called by a different name: "doxiedoodles. Doxiepoos aren't the only popular poodle mixes out there. There's also the adorable Yorkie-poo , shih-poo , Cavapoo , and so many others. For a daily dose of doxiepoo cuteness, follow Nutella , Teddie , and Atlas on Instagram. Was this page helpful? Doxypoo Description The Doxiepoo is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Dachshund and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is just under 5 lbs. He loves swimming, digging in the sand, going on walks , and he is an absolute sweet, cuddly dog. He is great with other dogs, especially big ones. His "cousins" are Golden Retrievers and he loves them to pieces. He is very mellow, rarely barks and is an all-around great little addition! She is an incredibly clever and sweet-natured dog, abounding in personality and charm. Her energy seems boundless which makes her a great companion for our adolescent daughter. She has proved to be rugged and dauntless when playing outdoors and yet is also perfectly content to be indoors. She hardly sheds and her coat is very thick and prone to tangling. We will soon be looking into managing this by doing some light trimming. He is nothing but a sweet guy who wants to please. He definitely has hound in him. His nose is always to the ground. When I go for my daily walks with him I take a leash for when we are in town, but other than that he walks by my side or within a ft radius of me. He sleeps by himself in his kennel but loves to come into bed in the morning for an hour or so. Ah, also housetraining was quite easy with him, took about 5 weeks. In the picture attached he is around 4 months old. He looks just like he was when I got him at 8 weeks old. I have people asking me all the time where I got him and if they have more. His mom is a purebred mini Dachshund and his dad is a purebred standard Poodle. They are delicate, and can display watchdog instincts. They might be quite noisy to share a home with and have some health issues you need to consider. The Doxiepoo is a relatively recent cross, growing in popularity. Twenty years ago this mix would be very rare and hard to find, but today they are more prevalent. To learn more about the background of the Doxiepoo, we need to get to know their parent breeds. The Dachshund originated in Germany and can be traced back at least years. This is due to the fact they were bred specifically to hunt badgers, with their low-to-the-ground bodies and long back proving to be perfect for navigating badger dens. Once introduced into America, this breed found immediate love and popularity among the masses. The Poodle was used as water retrievers. A useful companion to duck hunters because of their incredible swimming ability and intelligence. The Toy Poodle variation was first bred in America in the 20th century, to serve as a city-dwelling companion. Doxiepoo Appearance The first generation Doxiepoo will have short legs. In generations after that they could either have long or short legs, depending on which parent they take after. They are likely to have an elongated body, narrow muzzle and floppy ears. The Dachshund sits on short stout legs, leaving them low to the ground. They have a long body, large floppy ears, and a very keen nose. Their coat can come in three main variations—short and smooth, long, or rough and wiry. The Poodle, on the other hand, stands on much taller legs and is higher up off the ground. They are graceful, elegant dogs with short floppy ears. The coat of the Poodle is iconic. It is curly, dense, and naturally corded. It can either be kept long or regularly clipped to a short trim. They will fall anywhere from 10 to 22 inches and 4 to 32lbs depending on the type of parents used. Coats, Colors, Grooming and Shedding There can be a lot of different coat variations in Doxiepoos, due to the many variations naturally present in the Dachshund. Dachshund dogs have short, long or wirehaired varieties. The Doxiepoo could have a curly, corded coat like the Poodle, or they could take after the characteristics of the Dachshund coat, whichever variation that may be. However, the odds are the your Doxiepoo will have a medium length, wavy coat. Grooming requirements depends on what kind of coat the Doxiepoo has inherited. If your dog takes after the Poodle, it may be fairly high maintenance. Daily thorough brushing will be necessary or clipping the hair to a shorter trim to make it more manageable. On the other hand, if they take after a Dachshund coat, weekly brushing may suffice. Are Doxiepoos Hypoallergenic? The Doxiepoo might be a low shedding dog, if their coat is very curly like their Toy Poodle parents is. However, they produce allergen carrying saliva and dander, like any dog breed. This means that there is always the potential for a dog allergy to be triggered in an allergic owner, regardless of coat type. Doxiepoo Behavior and Temperament The Doxiepoo is a curious, intelligent dog. However, they can be stubborn and independent too. They have a tendency to be wary around people they do not know, which can result in tension or perhaps even aggression towards strangers if they are not socialized properly from a young age. However, they do make good watch dogs because of this. If they take after the Dachshund they may prove to be guarded around strangers. They might have more of a stubborn, independent nature than if they take after the Poodle. The Doxiepoo is likely to be very intelligent due to having two intelligent parent breeds, though how easy to train they are can vary. Doxiepoo Exercise The Doxiepoo should have similar exercise requirements to its parents. Despite their small stature, both the Dachshund and the Poodle are active dogs that require a good amount of daily exercise. A moderate length walk for each dog twice a day suits them nicely. Training Doxiepoo dogs take well to positive, reward-based training. However, the Dachshund sometimes proves to be more of a handful to train than the eager Poodles have a sometimes stubborn and easily distracted nature. Depending on if the Doxiepoo takes after the Dachshund in temperament, you may find them to be more of a challenge to train. It may require a lot of patience. High value rewards and lots of positivity are the way forward. Socialisation is also very important, as the guarded nature of the Dachshund can sometimes present itself in the Doxiepoo as aggression to strangers or other dogs. Designer Dog Health Advocates of pedigree dogs express concerns about the health of these mixed breeds and suggest many of these dogs come from inexperienced greedy breeders hoping to capitalize on a fad. However, a study performed in analyzed over 27 dogs of both purebred and crossbred backgrounds and found that purebred dogs were more at risk of certain genetic disorders. According to another study that took place in , Mixed breeds also seem to live 1. Dachshund and Toy Poodle Health Unfortunately, both parent breeds are known to suffer from some health issues that could present themselves in your Doxiepoo. The Dachshund has a type of dwarfism known as achondroplasia. Intervertebral disc disease is a serious issue that can stem from achondroplasia. In severe cases, this can lead to paralysis. Both the Dachshund and the Poodle are known to suffer from a patellar luxation. This is where the kneecap can slide out of place and become dislocated, causing sudden lameness. Another health risk that is prevalent in both breeds is hip dysplasia. This is where the dogs hip joint does not develop correctly, causing painful arthritis. Poodles are known to suffer from many eye problems. Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy PRA , lens sclerosis, and corneal degeneration are all potential issues. These conditions can cause vision loss and in severe cases lead to blindness. The Dachshund is also at risk of developing some of these conditions but to a lesser degree. Doxiepoo Health A Doxiepoo can be at risk of these issues, especially for conditions that are prevalent in both breeds such as patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. This may lead to a significantly higher risk of serious issues like intervertebral disc disease. Not allowing them to jump on and off furniture, or run up and down stairs can help reduce damage. It is incredibly important you check the health of the parent breeds before purchasing a Doxiepoo puppy. Feeding Your Doxiepoo Doxiepoos should be fed high-quality dog food. However, caution must be taken to never overfeed them. Are Doxiepoos Good Pets? The Doxiepoo is a friendly and loyal dog and will quickly become attached to members of the family provided they have been raised well. They would do best within a medium-sized family where they are able to fulfill their daily exercise requirements. This is doubly important if the Doxiepoo has inherited the Dachshunds long back and short legs, as the exercise can strengthen their potentially weak back. They are able to get along with other family dogs provided they have been socialized with them since early life. The hybrid dog looks like a teddy bear with a long body! Thanks to the Poodle parent influence, most Doxiepoos are hypoallergenic making them ideal for people with pet allergies. Are you looking for more information about the Doxiepoo? Want to know more about its appearance, temperament, and cost? Then this guide is for you! What is a Doxiepoo? Like all hybrid dogs, the appearance of a Doxiepoo is not predictable. However, some people believe that it might have first been created around the s. The craze for designer dogs began a few decades ago when the first Doodle mix a hybrid dog having one Poodle parent was created. The resulting cross was hypoallergenic and also smart — which enhanced its trainability. Soon, more and more dog fanciers were demanding small-sized Doodles. One such small Doodle mix was the Doxiepoo. Doxiepoos are cute, cuddly, and compact dogs, having Poodle genes that make them fairly easy to train. This can be advantageous given the fact that the Dachshund breed is known for its stubborn streak. Being a hybrid dog, the Doxiepoo is not registered with the Australian Kennel Club. However, in the USA the American Canine Hybrid Club keeps a track of the parentage and heritage of such hybrid dog breeds and Australia has similar associations. How Big will a Doxiepoo Puppy Get? As stated earlier, it can be difficult to predict the exact height, weight, and appearance of Doxiepoos. Most Doxiepoos weigh between 5 and 30 lb. The delightful little dogs could inherit the curly, tight coat of a Poodle or they could acquire a coat like that of its Dachshund parent. Dachshunds are themselves available in three coat varieties: long, smooth, or wiry. Accordingly, your Doxiepoo could have a short, curly, medium, long, wavy, or smooth coat. As such, no two Doxiedoodles will look the same. After all; canine genetics can be quite complex and the puppies could take after either parent. Doxiepoo puppies are available in various coat colours including red, tan, cream, white, black, beige, liver, brown, chocolate, merle, pied, parti, phantom and combinations thereof. Do Doxiepoo Dogs Shed? The Poodle breed is non-shedding but Dachshunds could shed depending on their coat type. The long-haired Dachshund variety sheds significantly. So, you might want to check with the breeder about which Dachshund type was used in the breeding program. The best breeders of poodle mix breeds, use DNA testing to check for coat traits in their breeding dogs. Traits such as furnishings and shedding genes are particularly important to consider in any breeding program aiming to produce hypoallergenic family pets. However, if it inherits more of the Dachshund genes, then you should expect some shedding. Likewise, a Doxiepoo bred back to a Dachshund especially the long-haired type will have a longer coat that is also prone to shedding. Do Doxiepoos Need Grooming? All Doodle breeds need regular grooming as they have sensitive skin. You can choose to keep your Doxiepoo looking like a Poodle or keep it uniformly clipped in a puppy cut throughout. You can also groom your Doxiedoodle at home- just make sure to brush it daily to remove the trapped debris in its coat. Failure to do so could lead to mats and tangles which can be painful for your dog. Is Doxiepoo a Good Dog? Doxiepoos make excellent family pets provided they get proper training and socialisation at the right age. They mostly get along with kids and since they are inherently playful, they love their company. However, as with any dog, it is important to socialise your Doxiepoo with children from puppyhood. It is equally important to teach children to be respectful to and gentle with the small dog. Doxiepoos generally fare well with elderly or mobility-impaired people. However, they need daily exercise so there should be someone around to train and walk them. A larger Doxiepoo will need more exercise although the smaller Doodles should not be made into couch potatoes. Smaller Doodles are fine with one short walk a day followed by indoor play sessions. Without exercise, these small dogs tend to get bored and restless. Younger Doxiepoos are extremely energetic so you need to make sure to stimulate their bodies as well as their minds on a daily basis. Environmental enrichment activities such as stuffed Kongs , food puzzles, licky mats and snuffle mats will be very helpful in keeping your Doxiepoo puppy stimulated and occupied. Do Doxiepoos Bark a Lot? Doxiepoos are generally happy, affectionate, and cheerful dogs. They are also playful and energetic. However, like all Doodles, they have a tendency to jump and bark. Therefore, your Doxiepoo puppy and you! Untrained Doxiepoos will jump on or bark at every person that enters your home or at anybody they meet on the street. It is just one of the traits of a Doxiepoo. Not everybody appreciates this behaviour. So, you need to train your Doodle to do a behaviour such as sitting quietly for attention. You will also have to be very consistent and patient with training and always use positive reinforcement. Doxiepoos even tend to jump on other dogs. Some dogs can be patient with them but not all. Pay careful attention to how your Doodle greets other dogs. You might also want to enrol your puppy in obedience school, puppy preschool or group training classes so they can learn to interact appropriately with other dogs. The good news is that Doxiepoos are highly trainable. However, training should start from an early age. Can Doxiepoos Be Left Alone? Doodles are known to suffer from extreme separation anxiety. After all; they love their humans and consider them their pack. When separated from you, Doxiepoos tend to feel despondent and insecure. Some bark and whine while others get destructive. Some might even chew their paws raw. If you have to leave your young Doxiepoo alone for long periods of time, consider enrolling it in doggy daycare. That way, your puppy can play with other dogs, get exercise, and also be around people. Adult Doxiepoos might do well being left alone but you may want to have a dog walker come in at least once a day to take them out. Good breeders spend time and money on health testing the parent dogs. The Dachshund dog breed is known to suffer from several health issues and genetic problems more about this later in the guide. Therefore, testing is a must. The best, responsible dog breeders only use healthy dogs in their breeding programs. They react to certain foods especially dairy, grains like wheat or corn, fillers, and other artificial ingredients. The Poodle dog breed is prone to skin issues and eating certain foods causes them to break into rashes, hives, itching, and hair loss. This is often passed on to the Doxiepoo offspring. It is best to consult a vet nutritionist about the right food for your Doxiepoo. These days, there are several types of foods specially formulated for sensitive dogs. You can choose from a hypoallergenic and grain-free diet, homemade food, raw dog food , or special vet-prescribed foods. In general, a diet rich in protein with meats like chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, etc. Most Doxiepoos live a healthy life but any dog can fall prey to ill-health. The Dachshund breed is known to be chondrodystrophic which causes various back issues in them. It is important that you are aware of these issues so you can watch out for the warning signs. The parent dogs should be tested for joint issues and genetic problems in the breed and only dogs that demonstrate excellent health should be used. Poodles also carry the genes for a number of eye problems so good breeders should make it a point to test them through DNA testing and CERF eye exams. Healthy Doxiepoos are known to live for years depending on their size. Smaller dogs generally live longer. The Doxiepoo is a fairly rare designer dog breed in Australia. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Goldendoodle Breeder Servicing Georgia Doodles of NC is an in-home breeder, exclusive to the Goldendoodle breed, offering puppies for sale to families located in Georgia. We are located in Burlington, NC, which is a days drive or let us delivery your puppy to you and meet you at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ATL which is a shorter drive from some of the larger cities in Georgia. Augusta, GA - 4 hrs. Our Air Delivery option is available to bring our puppies straight to your doorstep. We take it upon ourselves to personally travel and deliver each puppy to their forever family with love and care. We strongly believe that this process is more beneficial than relying on a third-party to handle the transportation of our puppies. Why are we an exclusive Goldendoodle breeder? In fact, we own Goldendoodles ourselves. They also make great family dogs as they have a nonaggressive temperament and loveable personalities. We raise these puppies in our personal home and provide them with the love, care, and attention they deserve until they are ready to join their forever homes. What are F-1B Goldendoodles? We strive to offer Goldendoodle puppies for sale that are healthy and well socialized with people and other pets. Moreover, they are bred from health-tested parents to ensure they are at their best. Aside from getting genetic testing done on our adult parent dogs, we also get our puppies screened and examined by a licensed veterinarian. They have a friendly, loving nature and are great for people with allergies due to their hypoallergenic fur. If you are looking for Goldendoodle puppies in Georgia, Doodles of NC can provide you with a furry friend. We offer mini Goldendoodles that are less than 30 pounds and medium Goldendoodles that are 30 to 50 pounds. Learn more about our pricing deposits and how we raise our puppies. Our Dogs. Piper is very good with people and would enjoy living in a home with a single person with no kids or couple without children. Piper may do well with older kids and teens who don't pull on her. She prefers a laid-back, mellow and calm lifestyle, because she is a pretty chill girl. So, a busy, loud or active lifestyle is just not her thing. Piper isn't overly energetic and does not seem to want a great deal of exercise and stimulation. Piper would be happy to be a couch potato with you and watch some good movies, then head out to the backyard and lay in the sun as you do your thing nearby. Once she knows you, Piper is very sweet, affectionate, social and friendly towards people. She is more mellow and not a very high energy girl. She loves attention but can be a little shy, especially around new people. Piper prefers to be by herself at mealtimes and when she has to go outside to go potty. For this reason, a fenced yard would be a requirement for her adoption. Piper is not a good candidate for dog parks, farmer's markets, dog friendly restaurants, etc. Piper is very reactive toward other animals. In the privacy of her own home, backyard and with her own family, Piper will thrive, and you will see her true personality emerge. She will be just fine as an only pet and a wonderful companion for those who prefer only one dog. Closed on all major holidays. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle 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! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Dahlonega Georgia and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Questions about Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Gainesville, GA? We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Goldendoodle puppies for sale near Gainesville? Goldendoodles are one of the most interesting breeds of dogs out there, often described as having the best of both worldsthe intelligence and task-oriented nature of a Poodle, and the charm and outgoing personality of a Golden Retriever. Not to mention, they come in a variety of colors and their curly and wavy coats can create a show-stopping look. Goldendoodles also have a very loyal and friendly disposition and make great family pets. Then, of course, there is their intelligence. Will Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Gainesville cause me to have allergies? Generally speaking, Goldendoodles do not cause more allergies than other dog breeds. However, the presence of pet dander, which all furred animals produce, can cause various allergies in some people. It is advisable to brush your Goldendoodle regularly, as this can help to reduce the amount of shedding and dander production. Most allergies are triggered by genetics, therefore it is impossible to predict whether or not someone will be allergic to a Goldendoodle before they come into contact with the animal. What do Gainesville Goldendoodle puppies for sale eat? Goldendoodles are usually fed a balanced diet of high-quality dry food that is specially made for large breed dogs. Protein should make up between 25 and 35 percent of this food, and it should also include important vitamins and minerals to ensure that your Goldendoodle is healthy and happy. To give your Goldendoodle variety, owners can also feed them fresh veggies, various meats, and eggs for an extra protein boost. It's important not to overfeed your Goldendoodle and consult with your veterinarian to create a feeding schedule tailored to your dog's specific needs. How do I prepare to adopt Goldendoodle puppies in Gainesville? Preparing for a new Goldendoodle can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It is important to start by setting up the home in a safe and comfortable way. This includes providing bedding, daily walks and training materials like toys and treats. Additionally, researching the breed's personality and behavior is key to ensuring success in training. Consider enrolling in a dog obedience class as it will allow you to develop a positive and mutually beneficial relationship between you and your new Goldendoodle. Lastly, make sure to schedule regular veterinarian appointments to ensure your pup stays healthy and happy. Are Goldendoodles for sale in Gainesville considered small dogs? Goldendoodles are typically considered a medium-sized breed. Depending on the size of the parents, some may be smaller and some may be larger. In general, Goldendoodles range in size from 30 to 40 pounds, with smaller Doodles weighing in around 15 to 40 pounds and larger Doodles reaching up to 70 pounds. Whatever the size, Goldendoodles are known for being playful and friendly, making them a great companion for active households of all sizes. Are Goldendoodle puppies near Gainesville active dogs? Goldendoodles are extremely active dogs who thrive when given plenty of activities and exercise. These outgoing, social pooches love meeting people and going places, and require a good amount of daily stimulation and physical activity in order to stay healthy and content. They are happiest when they are running, hiking, playing catch, or discovering new smells on a walk. Goldendoodles tend to be a bit more high-energy than other breeds, so it's important to give them an outlet to expend their energy. Are Goldendoodles in Gainesville good for first-time owners? Yes, Goldendoodles can make excellent pets for first-time owners. They are relatively easy to care for, as they shed very little and require minimal grooming to keep them looking their best. Goldendoodles are highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train and they adore their owners, which makes them great companions. Goldendoodles have even temperaments, so they tend not to bark for no reason, making them ideal for people who live in close quarters. Are Gainesville Goldendoodles for sale considered smart dogs? Goldendoodles are highly intelligent dogs known for their intuitive problem-solving abilities and eagerness to please. These pooches showcase remarkable trainability and enjoy learning and mastering commands, tricks, and agility courses. Goldendoodles also have an incredible memory, picking up habits from their environment and quickly adapting to it. While every dog's intelligence level is unique, Goldendoodles are known for being smart, attentive, and responsive to commands.

Prices for Labrador Retrievers may be influenced by several things. Expect some to be more expensive than others because these canines are grown and raised differently by each breeder. The following are some typical elements that influence the price of a Labrador Retriever puppy. Physical Appearance The yellow Labrador Retriever often commands a more excellent price than the chocolate or black Lab. Labrador Retrievers are available in various hues, including red, yellow, black, chocolate, and Dudley. They can also be categorized as English or American Labradors; the latter is the more reasonably priced canine. Due to their different uses, American Labradors are more commonly employed for fieldwork, whereas English Labs are primarily utilized as show dogs. Click here to learn more. Purebred puppies sprung from a show championship bloodline are unavoidably more expensive than a Lab puppy of pet quality, even though this has little influence on their ability to be loving companions. Although younger canines will cost more, you will get to enjoy them while they are still puppies. On the other hand, an older dog will likely be calmer and cost less money but may have behavioral problems that need to be addressed. Training A puppy will cost more than the usual price if the breeder has previously trained it. Raising a well-behaved dog is also more likely a result. Different breeds require different amounts of sleep, but how much sleep do Labradors need? Even though it is more expensive, this is a better and more ethical choice than purchasing a dog from a backyard breeder or a puppy factory. If you want your puppy to have this certification, be prepared to pay more for a Labrador Retriever. Health Health problems can arise in Labrador Retrievers. The most frequent conditions are progressive retinal atrophy, which causes blindness, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, you should always ask the breeder if they have checked the parents for hip, elbow, or eye issues before purchasing a Labrador puppy. The cost of the puppy will be lower if the pedigree has a history of hip or elbow dysplasia. A reputable breeder will provide health records and certificates for both parents. The puppy will be protected from inheriting progressive retinal atrophy and will have a higher likelihood of having healthy hips and elbows. Because unskilled owners misunderstand how much exercise these working dogs require and cannot exhaust them, American Labradors are more likely to wind up in shelters. An English Lab is unusual to come across at a shelter. That is because they are show dogs and frequently have more seasoned owners. They are also much less energetic, making them a good choice for young families searching for their first dog. Although labs are generally calm and easygoing, a rescue Labrador may not be the best choice for new parents. They may require special attention and instruction because of behavioral problems brought on by previous neglect. Other Factors In general, service dog-trained Labrador Retriever puppies cost much more than regular Lab puppies. An assistance dog must undergo considerable training, which adds significant expenses to its upbringing. To avoid unforeseen costs, ask the breeder specific questions about what is included in the bill. How Much Is a Labrador Puppy? This becomes particularly true if the Lab puppy you intend to buy comes from a line of champions. Labrador Retrievers are a friendly, devoted breed that gets along well with kids. Additionally, labs are very clever, driven, and simple to teach. They are, therefore, excellent dogs for new owners. Particularly in America, it is not difficult to discover Labrador pups for sale. A Labrador can be adopted in various ways, including from dog shelters and breeders. For instance, there are several blends, colors, and types of labs. Click here to find out. However, getting a black Labrador puppy from a top-notch retriever could be pricey. Although yellow labs are not uncommon, because of their high level of popularity, adopting one of these puppies can be expensive. It is less expensive to adopt than to purchase from a breeder. When you purchase from a reputed breeder, you also increase your chances of receiving a healthy puppy. They prepare to move to a permanent home when they are eight weeks old. Before this age, no Chocolate Lab should be sold. Make sure the breeder you choose to get your puppy from is reputable. Avoid puppy mills and pet retailers when purchasing pups at all costs. You must be prepared to pay a little bit more if you want a Silver Lab or charcoal or Champagne. Despite their growing numbers, they are still uncommon, particularly in the UK. This fact has led some people to conclude that breeders only chose to breed this uncommon gene for this purpose. Prices will probably decrease as they grow more widespread, but they might never get to the point where they are comparable to regular labs that adhere to AKC rules. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Tweet on Twitter How much is a Labrador puppy? Including bloodlines, coat color, and the cost of using a reputable breeder. Average Cost of Labrador Puppy The cost of a Labrador puppy can vary depending on a number of factors. Perhaps the most influential factor is who you buy your Lab puppy from. Different breeders can have different priorities in breeding and raising Labrador puppies. Puppy Mill Versus Labrador Breeder Prices There is often a huge difference between what a puppy mill and a reputable health-conscious Labrador breeder will charge for a Lab puppy. In contrast, a reputable Lab breeder who who genuinely cares about the dogs being bred will do both and much more. This can drive up the cost of breeding a litter of puppies quite a bit. So if you compare how much is a Labrador puppy from a puppy mill and a reputable breeder, you will see right away that there is a big difference in the asking price for a puppy. If you find a Labrador puppy for a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. You may want to look deeper before you commit your heart and your wallet to take care of that puppy for a decade or longer. There are three main coat colors for Labrador Retrievers: the black Labrador, the chocolate brown Labrador, and the yellow Labrador. There is also a fourth color that is newly popular, which is the silver Labrador. For many years, the black Labrador was considered the best coat color and everyone wanted a black Labrador. During these years, the black Labrador puppy price was often higher than the price for a yellow Lab or a chocolate Lab. Today, you may still find that Labrador dog black puppy price is higher than the other three standard coat colors, which include yellow or chocolate brown. However, as interest in silver Labs grows, at the time of writing demand is outstripping supply. So right now, you might find that silver Lab puppy price is higher than you would pay for the standard Labrador puppy with a coat color of black, chocolate brown or yellow. Of course, these coat color trends can quickly change. What you want to look for more than anything else, including coat color, is a reputable and responsible breeder who will sell you a healthy Labrador puppy. Labrador Puppy Price and Labrador Type If you are just learning about the history and lineage of Labrador Retriever dogs, you might not know that there are actually two types of purebred Labradors. The two types are the American or working Labrador and the English or show Labrador. The American Labrador dog is the most common pet Lab type and also the most common choice for a working Labrador. The English Labrador dog is the most common choice for owners who want to breed or show Labradors. The two types of Labradors can differ quite a bit in everything from body size and overall conformation to temperament and personality. Do you want to participate in working dog athletic events such as dock diving or you want to go hunting with your Lab? Then you will likely want to purchase and train an American Labrador. In contrast, if you dream of standing in the show ring with a champion Labrador, you will likely be searching for an English Lab puppy to purchase and train. But the gene pool today for purebred Labradors is somewhat limited. So it is vital to ensure your new Labrador puppy has been bred from parent dogs who are as unrelated as possible. They should also be health tested for known serious breed-specific health disorders. Lab puppies can face a number of heritable genetic health issues. The three most concerning health risks are hip dysplasia and eye issues. Another newer serious concern is called exercise induced collapse EIC. If you purchase your new Lab puppy from a health-conscious dog breeder, you may wonder why your new puppy is so expensive. The answer is simple: Your breeder has to calculate the costs of preventative screening and health testing into how much is a Labrador puppy from their kennel. This can cause a lot of pain and dysfunction, including lameness. Lab puppies will start to show signs of hip dysplasia when they are around 6 months old. In very mild cases, your Lab may not display any symptoms of hip dysplasia until well into adulthood. Hip dysplasia is a condition that can be passed along from parent dog to puppy. So it is vital to do health testing on the parent dogs before breeding to reduce the risk that a puppy will inherit hip dysplasia. These health tests are not cheap, however. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia, as the name suggests, is an abnormality in how the bones and cartilage of the elbow joint grow and fit together. Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a congenital condition, which means it can be passed along from parent dog to puppy. As with hip dysplasia, symptoms of elbow dysplasia may not begin to appear until a puppy is 6 months or older. In mild cases, the warning signs may not show up until your dog is well into adulthood. Eye Issues Purebred Labrador retrievers can suffer from a variety of congenital, or inherited, eye disorders. The most serious of these is called progressive retinal atrophy PRA. PRA is a congenital eye issue that can eventually cause blindness. Another serious health issue Labrador retrievers can face is called exercise-induced collapse EIC. Researchers have only recently pinpointed the gene responsible for this genetically heritable health condition, which has allowed development of a screening test. This is in addition to the other costs a breeder bears for stud fees, whelping, weaning, advertising and veterinary care for each a Lab puppy. Your breeder will also bear the cost of microchipping, worming, vaccinating, and flea treating each pup. New Lab Puppy Costs One of the biggest surprises in terms of how much is a Labrador puppy is how much it can cost to welcome a new puppy into the family. For instance, your new Lab puppy will need many supplies , including a home and travel crate a leash and collar an I. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like. And for good reason! Labradors make fantastic family pets, and they are notoriously great with kids. Labradors are also highly affectionate, energetic dogs. However, you may be wondering how much a Labrador Retriever actually costs. The cost of your Labrador Retriever will depend upon several factors. While you may be thinking about that original price tag when you purchase your puppy, there are so many more factors to consider when it comes to working out the true cost of what your Labrador puppy will cost you. This is down to several different factors. One of the most important factors will be down to the breeder that you choose to buy your labrador puppy from. This is a decision that will require a lot of thought and research. Especially if you want to use them with any American Kennel Club events. You can look for an older dog that has been trained for certain things such as dock jumping or hunting. Puppy Mills And Backyard Breeders Choosing the right breeder will be essential when it comes to finding your Labrador retriever puppy. Puppy mills and backyard breeders only care about making a profit from their dogs, so will cut corners when it comes to caring for them. In order to save money, these breeders will do things like miss essential vaccinations. Chances are these dogs could have a bunch of health and behavior issues. Cost Of Feeding A Labrador As with any dog, you will also need to factor in how much it will cost to feed your Labrador. When your labrador starts to grow up, they will need to eat more and more food. Remember that Labradors are large, very active animals. The right amount of food for your dog will differ depending on their age, gender, how active they are, and their daily schedule. Dry dog food The general rule of thumb for an adult Labrador is around 3 cups of dry dog food per day. Typically, this sized dry dog food bag will give you around cups, which should be enough to last your Labrador for around 40 days. This cost will also depend on the brand of dog food that you opt for. Again, the cost will vary from brand to brand. This is presuming you will be giving your labrador a single can a day. You may need to adjust this amount depending on the number of calories they need to consume in the day. One of the best things about Labradors is how easy they are to train. Treats will be a necessary part of this if you want to train your dog. Try these homemade treat options and you may save some money. There are things that you will need to have in place beforehand, such as food bowls, a crate, collar, leash, puppy pads, as well as some basic chew toys. This is also where your puppy will sleep on his first night away from his litter. There are two ways that you can tackle this necessary purchase. Here are our 5 top picks for the best crates for puppies and our best puppy toys to keep your Labrador busy in the crate. Buy a quality crate Of course, you can splash the cash on a high-quality crate that will last your dog for its whole lifetime. If you choose this option, the crate will be much too big for your puppy, and it could also make crate training virtually impossible. You can get around this issue by making a temporary divider that can keep your puppy in a smaller portion of the crate. Some crates are sold with dividers like this MidWest Homes dog crate. This will also allow you to adjust the divider over time to give your Labrador puppy more room as they grow up, and until your dog gets the hang of crate training. Buy a cheaper crate The second approach is that you can buy a crate that fits the exact size of your puppy now. A wire crate design is a good choice to opt for as it makes it even easier to clean up any accidents. Plus when it comes time to put your puppy to bed, all you need to do is throw a blanket over the crate to encourage them to sleep. Once your dog has outgrown this kennel, you will need to buy a larger model. Tips for using a crate for your puppy How to stop your puppy from pooping in the crate Inside Fence One of the best ways to house train your labrador puppy is to invest in an inside fence. This will help to keep your puppy contained in the early stages of potty training. This Amazon Basics foldable pen will be perfect for your needs. Ordering your new inside fence online will make the process much easier for you, and can even help you to save money. This is one of the biggest mistakes that owners can make with new puppies, as they could then start to do their business in places other than the training pads. Stock up on puppy pads! Your puppy will go through a lot whilst you are potty training them. Vet Costs It can be tricky trying to calculate the exact cost of your vet bills when it comes to a new Labrador puppy. The fantastic thing about Labradors is that they are typically a much healthier breed than other pedigrees. There are some diseases to which Labradors can fall victim to. Just like any other dog, they can be prone to suffer from some things more than others. Some of these diseases can even be very expensive to get diagnosed and to treat. The above figures are rough ballpark estimates, but you can see how conditions like these would add up over time. Depending on the severity of the issue, it can get incredibly expensive. It will be different for everyone. Dog Bed You may not think your Labrador puppy requires a soft bed at the start of your journey together. However, as your dog starts to grow older and they gain weight, they will need a good quality orthopedic bed so that they can sleep comfortably. Here are a few suggestions for miscellaneous household items that you might not have considered. Toys for training Your energetic little pup will need an outlet for all that playfulness. Training can be a fantastic way to get them to focus their energy. So you will need to buy training toys to help them learn a trick or two. This will be especially useful if you want to teach your pup how to retrieve things. Another great way to get your pup to use their energy is to invest in a couple of chew toys. These can help your Labrador to burn off some of that energy until you can take them for a walk. Labradors have a bad but valid reputation for destroying chew toys. Dog staples There are of course other staples you will need to buy when it comes to owning a Labrador puppy. Treats will be a must-have, especially if you want to train your new dog. These treats should be soft and have a high nutritional value for your puppy. These should be used to motivate your pup during your training sessions. A collar and leash will of course be important if you want to take your new Labrador puppy out for a walk. You should always have some of these to hand every time you take your Labrador puppy for a walk. The average lifespan of a Labrador is around 10 to 12 years, so this should be a fairly accurate estimate for your new dog. Reasons You Should Still Get A Labrador Retriever While we can easily predict how much a Labrador will cost your bank account, there is no way to measure how beneficial owning one will be to your mental health and physical wellbeing. In fact, there are several studies that show that owning animals, in general, is incredibly beneficial for you. Some of these include improving your health, as they can help you exercise with daily walks. Owning a Labrador can also help to reduce feelings of anxiety, and give you a positive place to focus your attention. Pets such as Labradors have also been proven to reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. They can be a great source of comfort for the whole family, giving you loyal, loving companionship. Labradors, just like all dogs, will come with a healing role in your family life. This makes it hard to measure their true worth as pets, as your new pup will be invaluable to you and your family. Frequently Asked Questions What do I need to know before buying a lab? Labradors are naturally very energetic dogs, so they will need a fair amount of exercise. The benchmark is one hour of exercise each day for a Labrador in good health. Labs are pretty much bottomless pits and will eat whatever you give them. However, because Labradors are highly motivated by food, this also makes them incredibly easy to train. How much does it cost to buy a lab? The cost of a Labrador will vary depending on where you get them from, and how old they are. But so will any dog that you choose to invest in.

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. Let your pet enjoy a fun and interactive playing session with the help of some good dog toys. Here is a list of some of the most popular and affordable toys that are apt for large dogs. This dog food is easy to digest and is free from soy, eggs, dairy, red meat and more to give the right nutrition to your pet. This food is great for giving balanced nutrition to your pet without causing any disturbance in digestive health. Besides German Shepherds, you can use this pack of food to feed adult pugs, beagles, labradors, golden retrievers and more. This is a pack of dry dog food that is meant for dogs above the age of 18 months. Being apt for active dogs, this food can be used to feed most of the German Shepherds that are kept for security purposes and undergo training sessions regularly. If you are introducing this food to your pet dog, make sure that you refer to the feeding instructions given on the packaging to ensure the proper health of your pet dog. Besides German Shepherds, you can even feed this food to Dobermans, St. Bernards and more. Read more about German Shepherd dog food here. Purina Supercoat Adult Dry Dog Food If you have an adult German Shepherd at home, you can buy this pack of dry dog food to ensure a shiny and healthy coat for your pet. This food is a good source of proteins to make the muscles of your pet dog stronger. Regular consumption of this food can even ensure proper digestive health and a good immune system to keep your pet dog happy and healthy. This food is available in a tempting chicken flavour to easily attract your pet German Shepherd for the meal. Since it is free from artificial colours and flavours, you need not think too much before buying it online for your pet. If you are not sure about the quantity of food that is right for every serving, you can refer to the feeding instructions given on the packaging. Besides German Shepherds, you can even serve this food to puppies of other breeds as well. Also read:. Jump on live chat or leave a message. Dog food for German Shepherds With a high drive, large and fast-growing bones and a higher-chance of hip and joint issues than other breeds, the ideal German Shepherd dog food is high in quality meat protein, well balanced and low in inflammation markers. We designed Scratch for great German Shepherds like Vinnie here. What should you pay attention to when picking food for your German shepherd? Is it full of chicken, beef or poultry? This effects joints and overall mobility, as well as skin and coat. Controlling inflammation is vital in older dogs. German Shepherd nutritional needs Like most breeds, German Shepherds have genetic traits not guarantees, but higher likelihood and lifestyle-related health issues to consider, and hopefully avoid. Good breading and genetic testing can reduce a lot of risk, with diet and lifestyle also helping to avoid or reduce the effect. High-protein from quality meat sources. All Scratch meat protein comes from specific source, human-grade meat Ingredients with low inflammation markers to look after those joints. German Shepherd puppy food With fast growing bones and growth hormones in overdrive, German Shepherd puppies require a different diet than smaller puppies. Their food needs to contain: A calcium:phosphorous ratio in a range suitable for large breeds. DHA for brain development Enough salt and electrolytes Tons of protein at least .But not all protein is created equal. Dogs do better with plenty of high-quality animal protein. How much should a German Shepherd eat a day? Different foods give off different amounts of energy. Scratch for instance has more energy in a piece of kibble than most other dry dog foods, so dogs would eat less Scratch than other foods and a bag would last longer. Look for the amount of Kcal per grams. The higher the number, the more energy the food contains. The lower, the less it contains and the more they would need to eat. To find out how much Scratch your German Shepherd should eat a day, take our personalised quiz. If you have a puppy, their feeding guide will update as they grow. Comparing German Shepherd dog food Dog Food. 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. Wet food.As well as it being tasty, there are certain things to look out for when hunting for the best wet food for your puppy. For example, large and giant breeds are particularly prone to orthopaedic problems if they do not eat an appropriate diet while they are growing. That's why you can find food designed specifically for larger breeds. This is easy with wet food but is not as noticeable on treats. The more they eat, the more it will cost you. You should also be aware that your pup will need more food as they grow, and they grow incredibly quickly. You should also always consult your breeder. ShepherdSense has put together a handy guide on what your pup should eat at every stage of their growing development. All dogs can be prone to allergies, but some breeds are more susceptible to developing allergies and the German Shepherd is one of these. Many things may trigger an allergic reaction in German Shepherds, including food products like animal proteins, wheat, eggs, soy or milk and environmental pathogens that are present in their everyday environments such as pollen, dust, perfumes or moulds. Some German Shepherds can also be allergic to flea saliva, leading to a condition known as flea-allergic dermatitis. When this condition occurs the dog will develop irritated skin after just one flea bite, leading to incessant itching, red spots on the skin and inflammation. German Shepherds are known for having thick fur, so brushing and checking their skin daily or weekly is vital to keep on top of any changes. If you think your German Shepherd does have an allergy, seek the help of your vet as soon as possible. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands including John Lewis, Daily Mirror and Grazia. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's rennovating her Victorian terrace and chilling in the garden with her sausage dog Waffle. Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us. 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. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. Deworming Spaying or neutering If you were to add up the cost of all of these services separately, and not part of an all-inclusive adoption fee, the price tag would invariably be considerably higher. Additionally, you can also feel good about adopting a GSD puppy from a shelter, as the proceeds acquired through adoption fees are used to help support the shelter from which you adopted the puppy. This allows a shelter to continue to rescue new animals and relocate them in safe homes. One potential downside to adoption is the time and effort that it may take you to find the right pup for you. Unlike a breeder who is able to provide you with rather specific dates, there is no telling when a new GSD puppy may be available through a shelter. Additionally, purebred GSD puppies tend to be adopted out very quickly, so if you choose this option you must be very diligent and persistent. Be prepared to make lots of phone calls on a daily basis, as it is unlikely that a shelter will call you specifically when the puppy you want arrives, as many others will undoubtedly have the same request. This is because purebred dogs that are ethically raised by responsible breeders are expensive to breed in general. Also, in contrast to a purebred shelter puppy that spends a short portion of its life at the shelter prior to adoption, a breeder must pay all of the costs associated with raising an entire litter for a minimum of 8 weeks, as is mandated by law in many states. Next comes the cost of pre-breeding health checks performed on both parents, prenatal care, stud fees, shots, food, wormings, vet visits, and a host of other unexpected medical costs. You must also figure in the time and effort that it takes to socialize an entire litter, coupled with the fact that many breeders are dealing with more than one litter at a time, and it is easy to see how the costs can quickly add up. Essentially, a purebred German Shepherd puppy from a breeder will cost more because they are more expensive to raise. However, a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder will also come with health and temperament guarantees, so you do actually get what you pay for. For more detailed understanding of adopting a German Shepherd puppy from a shelter versus purchasing one from a breeder, we have an excellent article here that will answer all of your questions and remove all of the guesswork for you. The Cost of the First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership While the amount of money that you spend to acquire a German Shepherd puppy will vary in accordance to the different factors that we have described above, keep in mind that acquiring the puppy is just be beginning of your financial commitment. It is important that you pay attention to these costs, as they can be significant, and may have a bearing on whether or not acquiring a GSD puppy is a good economical choice for you. While there are other related costs, the main costs that you will incur during the first year of GSD puppy ownership can be apportioned as follows: Initial Cost of Your Puppy As described above, this is entirely dependent on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder. This cost varies widely and can exceed several thousand dollars on the high end. Dog Food With so many different dog food brands on the market today, this cost can also vary considerably. From basic dry dog food to available gourmet raw diets, you can spend as little or as much as you choose. Grooming While you can groom your GSD puppy yourself, many people opt to take their puppy to a professional groomer. Necessities such as nail trimming can be intimidating to the first-time puppy owner and may harm the puppy if performed incorrectly. Training While it is our preference that you take the time to properly train your GSD puppy on your own, as this is a unique and irreplaceable bonding experience on many levels for you and your GSD puppy, many people opt to seek professional obedience training. Some people simply do not have the time to do this, or perhaps it is their first dog and they are unsure of where to begin. If this is the case for you, then you should plan on this expense during your first year of GSD puppy ownership. It is, however, important to understand that individually these items do not cost very much, but if you love to spoil your puppy, then costs can add up very quickly! Crate and Divider A crate is another essential item that there is just no getting around purchasing if you want your puppy to be well-trained. Be sure to not make the mistake that many people do by purchasing too small of a crate and then having to upsize as their puppy grows. It is wise to purchase a large crate as well as a crate divider. This way, you are able to place the divider so that the volume of the crate can be increased as your puppy grows in size. Veterinary Care A preliminary veterinary health check and vaccinations are essential. If you adopt from a shelter, these are likely included in the adoption fee. However, if you purchase your puppy from a breeder, you may incur these costs after bringing your puppy home. Keep in mind that you can, and should, also plan on unexpected veterinary bills. What happens when your puppy gets into something that he definitely should not have, and even worse, after veterinary office hours? It is wise to prepare and set aside some extra funds for such emergencies. Heartworms can be deadly, so heartworm preventative medication is a must. Ticks can also transmit disease that may cause severe illness, such as Canine Anaplasmosis , and fleas are wildly uncomfortable for both human and puppies alike. Table: First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership Costs Now that we have gone over the basic essential expenses of GSD puppy ownership during the first year, we can get more specific as to the expenses that you may incur, depending on your own personal preferences. The table below provides a reasonable estimate of all costs associated with the first year of German Shepherd puppy ownership. Keep in mind that, while this is a reasonable estimate, it is still an estimate. There are certain services and items within the table below that are elective, such as boarding the puppy while on vacation or obedience classes. However, as discussed above, there are certain mandatory, nonnegotiable expenses such as food and veterinary care that you must take into consideration. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.