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You may like: Boerboel golden retriever mix. Brittanys were born to be gundogs They have birds in their heads. These lively dogs are versatile hunters and family dogs more closely with hunters than other pointing breeds. If you can meet their intense energy and exercise requirements, This could be the dog that is right for you! The Brittany dog is a beautiful breed. Brittany dog breed is a cheerful elegant gundog that is often described as hyperactive or the ideal family companion. The truth lies in your interests and levels. As with all breeds of sport, Brittany is energetic and is an energy-hungry dog, which, along with other traits, could make him a great choice for the right home. In other countries, they are still referred to as Brittany Spaniels. The Brittany is 31st out of breeds and breeds recognized by the AKC. Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers were first developed in 19th century Scotland as hunting dogs specializing in land and water retrieving. It is one of the most popular dogs across the United States. These playful, water-loving pups were originally developed to catch fowl to hunt. It is difficult to predict the specific temperament of Brittany spaniel Golden Retriever mixes, as different dogs tend to have individual temperaments that can be affected by their socialization and training. It is critical for any pet owner, regardless of the breed or mix, to provide consistent and proper education for their dog in order to develop a friendly demeanor. These dogs are extremely good at interacting with both small and older children. They are great in a peaceful, tranquil, and relaxing setting. They do not enjoy any intense exercise or physical exercise. Also, they can be a good friend to any calm and relaxed dog at the earliest moment. They need affection, love, and lots of attention. They need time to warm up. Brittany Golden retriever mix loves to study strangers before giving their thumbs up. They might become friends after the examination. Brittany Golden Retriever mixes possess a unique temperament that exemplifies qualities from both parent breeds. These dogs are excellent when it comes to getting along with children and older adults alike. They fare well in tranquil, peaceful environments and do not require excessive physical or athletic activities. In addition, they can become fast friends with another docile and chill canine. This type of dog loves to bond with their owners and will need patience as they warm up to strangers during the initial introduction process. Providing affection, love, and plenty of attention is essential for them to feel secure in their environment. Health Issues. The Golden Brittany spaniel mix is a strong and healthy breed on the whole. However, it is important to be aware of certain potential health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. To ensure your pet remains in tip top condition, regular vet checkups and vaccinations are recommended to prevent any complications down the line. Exercise Requirements. This active dog breed needs plenty of exercise and stimulation on a daily basis. Taking them for a walk or jog is great, as is giving them the opportunity to play fetch or visit the dog park. Grooming requirements. The Golden Spaniel mix has moderate grooming needs that should be attended to on a regular basis. Brushing a few times a week will reduce excess shed hair and keep the coat looking nice and healthy. Trimming the nails regularly is also important, as well as cleaning the ears with a damp cloth to prevent dirt or wax buildup. Coat and color. The coat of a Brittany spaniel Golden Retriever hybrid dog is medium-length and can be straight or wavy. The most common colors are gold, cream, and white. However, they can also be black, brown, or red. To ensure that the dog stays healthy, physical activity and proper socialization and training should be provided. Additionally, coat color and other features depend on which parental breeds are used in the mix; therefore, it can vary significantly from one pup to another. You may like: Basenji golden retriever mix. Size and weight. Brittany spaniel Golden Retriever mixes are typically medium-sized dogs, measuring between inches and weighing between pounds. Generally speaking, these hybrid pooches make excellent companion animals for active families. Life expectancy. The life expectancy of the Brittany Golden Retriever Mix will depend on the life expectancy of its parents. The life expectancy of a Brittany spaniel Golden Retriever mix is years. They must be vaccinated against certain common health issues like parvo, rabies, distemper, and bordetella. Prior to adopting the dogs, verify their health. You may like: Dalmatian golden retriever mix. Are they get along with other pets and children? The Brittany Golder Retriever Mix is renowned for its ability to excel as an ideal family pet. This hybrid breed is famous for its intelligence, friendliness, and affectionate nature — qualities that make it particularly well-suited to a domestic setting. All in all, this particular dog variety makes an excellent choice due to its good temperament and charming disposition. Brittany spaniel Golden Retriever Mixes make great family pets that are loyal and loving. They are also very intelligent, making them easy to train. However, they require regular exercise and plenty of space to run around. If you are looking for a new furry friend, this mix may be perfect for you. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. They can be fun and exciting but require lots of care and attention to live lifelong happily. They tend to be friendly by nature and love. A Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix will always love to perform in any outdoor activities with you as well as with your kids because they are one of the hybrid dogs of golden retrievers who are known for their friendliness. A Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix is not only going to do its best in any outdoor session but is also going to protect your dog and kids from any threat. They are also known for their alertness which makes them a good Great watchdog too. After understanding a quick brief on what exactly a Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix is, it is very important to know the physical appearance of a Golden Retriever Brittany Spaniel Mix. So, to get an idea of what exactly a Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix looks like, here are some pictures. Each of the Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix puppies is going to differ from one another depending upon whom and how much they have inherited most of their traits. On the other side, if a Golden Retriever Brittany Spaniel Mix inherits most of its physical traits or genetic from the Brittany Spaniel then you can expect them to be more like a Brittany Spaniel in terms of appearance. It is quite common in the hybrid dog as well as humans. There is no exact physical appearance information available on them all over the internet because they are hybrid. Whatever you do or how much you do your research, you will only end up with an unpredictable answer. Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix Coat If you look at the coat of the first parent golden retriever, you get to know that they can come in a single-layered coat or a double-layered coat depending upon the type of coat. Plus, you can also get a Brittany Spaniel in the coat. However, it has been noticed that most of the time, both breed comes in a single coat which makes the offspring also a single-layered coat breed. A Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix can be single layer coated breed depending upon their parents too. Due to its first parent golden retriever, Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix can inherit the golden pride from its parent. However, it is unlikely to find a Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix in an unrecognizable color that their parent never had. Let me tell you, the characteristics of a Golden Retriever Brittany Spaniel Mix is also impossible to know because it may fluctuate from puppy to puppy depending upon from whom and how much they have inherited from each of their parents. So, here you will get to know about the weight, height, and lifespan of a Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever Mix. Plus, they require special care and attention to live a healthy life. To be on the safe side, occasional testing done on the hips, elbows, and skin is necessary. This is the best possible way to eliminate any kind of threat at an early stage. Plus, I would highly suggest you go for the occasional testing near your veterinarian with your dog done on their hips, skin, and elbows so that you can recognize any potential threat at an early stage and address it properly. Whatever their parents had, the offspring is going to carry the same. Let me clear one thing, the health concerns that have been mentioned here are the expected ones and there is no guarantee that only these health problems are going to irritate your dog. Other health concerns may also irritate your dog in the future that has not been discussed in this article because they are hybrid dogs. Brittany Spaniel Health Problems. Both parent breeds are gentle, loving, intelligent, and affectionate dogs that make great family pets. They are also both very intelligent breeds that are easy to train. The Mix of these two popular breeds is a dog likely to be friendly, devoted, and eager to please its owner. The Brittany Golden Retriever mix is likely to be a good fit for a family with children. They are also likely to get along well with other pets in the home. These dogs need moderate exercise and do best in a home where someone is around during the day. They are not suited for life in an apartment or condo. If you are looking for a devoted, loving, and friendly dog that will be a great addition to your family, the BrittGolden may be the perfect dog. Grooming Requirements. However, they will need regular brushing to ensure their coat stays healthy and free of knots. If your pup is a heavy light or heavy shedder, you may need to increase the frequency of their brushing sessions. It is important to use a shampoo appropriate for their coat type to avoid drying out their skin. Overall, the Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever mix is a great dog breed for those looking for a low to moderate maintenance pet. Dietary Requirements The dietary need of a Golden Brittany Spaniel should be high-quality dog food that is meant for their age, weight, and activity level. One important factor to remember is that this breed loves to eat; therefore, it is essential to monitor their meals and not allow them to overeat or become overweight. According to the American Kennel Club, dry food is the best option for this type of mixed-breeds. Provide foods for your pup with the right balance of nutrition that is effective enough to support their daily activities and growth. It is best to ask your veterinarian what they recommend specifically for your pup since each is different. A good rule of thumb to follow is giving them two meals a day; however, some owners prefer to give three smaller meals instead of two larger ones. Ultimately, it is up to you and what works best for you and your pup! Just like humans, dogs need water to stay hydrated throughout the day. It is important to have a bowl of fresh water available at all times. Depending on their activity level, some may need more than others. For example, if they just went for a long run or played outside in the heat, they will need more water to rehydrate. On the other hand, if they are relaxed indoors, they will need less. Be sure to always check their bowl and refill it when necessary. You can also add fresh fruits and vegetables to their diet, and supplements like fish oil, chondroitin, and glucosamine are effective enough to protect their joints as they age. Although this is not required, some pet parents find that their pup enjoys it, and it provides them with extra nutrients! Just be sure to do your research on what fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs to consume before adding anything to their bowl. They need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day, including playing fetch, going for a run, or swimming. They are intelligent and eager to please their owners. However, they do need a lot of exercises and mental stimulation. A tired dog is a good dog! Here are some tips on how to train your Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever mix: Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement such as treats or praise to reward your dog for good behavior. Be consistent with your commands and rewards. Introduce new commands and challenges gradually. Make training fun for both you and your dog! With proper training, your GoldenBritt will be a well-mannered dog that is a joy to have around. Also, early socialization is important for this breed. Socialization exposes them to different people, animals, and environments, making them more confident and less fearful as adults. It is never too late to socialize with your dog but the earlier you start, the better. Here are some ideas on how to socialize your Brittany Spaniel Golden Retriever mix: Take them to different places such as the park, beach, or hiking trails. Invite friends and family over to meet your dog. Enroll them in doggy daycare or puppy kindergarten class. Expose them to different animals such as cats, birds, and other dogs. By socializing with your dog, you will be setting them up for a happy and successful life. This is just an average because the Price could be more or less depending on the breeder, bloodline, availability, and location. The litters are usually small, with only four to six puppies. You can find a Golden Retriever Brittany Spaniel Mix for sale from various sources, including breeders, adoption centers rescue organizations , and online retailers. Also, it would help if you asked for health insurance clearance to be sure the puppy is free of genetic defects. Lastly, online retailers are an option but be very careful as many scams are out there. When looking for a Mixed-breed puppy, keep in mind that the Price is only one part of the equation. However, like all mixed breeds, they can be susceptible to health problems. Some of the most common health issues that affect this Mix or they can inherit from their parent breeds include: Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. It is more common in large breeds but can affect any size dog. This is due to the shape of their ears, which can trap moisture and dirt. Subvalvular aortic stenosis: This is a heart condition that can be fatal. It is more common in Golden Retrievers but can affect any size dog. If you are considering getting a GoldenBritt, be sure to do your research and talk to your veterinarian about the possible health problems that could affect your dog. A loyal and loving dog that will make a great addition to any family. And always remember — they may be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but these dogs definitely require plenty of exercises and human interaction. Thanks for reading, Kindly help us share this article if you find it helpful. Post navigation. Lambert November 22, Britney spaniel golden retriever mix is a beautiful mixed breed. When a golden retriever and a Brittany spaniel are crossbred, their mixed dog is produced. These dogs are more like a golden retriever and less like Brittany spaniel. Their body frame is more like Brittany spaniel. They may have some patterns on their coat. The common coat pattern available is a blonde ticking pattern. The texture of their coat is wavy. They have a very beautiful fringe on their legs and their tails are spectacularly plume. The temperament and other traits of these dogs are dependent on genetic dominance. Contents Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix Temperament The temperament of Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is a mix of both parent breeds. These dogs have very good compatibility with small as well as older kids. These dogs do well in a quiet, calm, and relaxed environment. They are not into an intense workout or physical activity. They can be friends with any laid back and balanced dog at the very first moment. These dogs require love, affection, and a lot of attention. They take some time to get warm-up. Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix likes to investigate strangers before giving them a thumbs up. They may become friendly after investigation. Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix Size The size of Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is dependent on the genetic dominance and the size of its parent breeds as well. These dogs are medium in size and compatible to keep in a small house or apartment. The healthy weight of a Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is around 41 pounds. Their height is up to 24 inches from the shoulder. Their weight may reach up to 75 kg. These dogs may take up to one year to become a fully grown animal. Their weight may be achieved in more than one year. These dogs are family dogs. Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix Adoption The adoption of Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix requires full mental satisfaction. Go through the profile of these dogs before adoption. Find a pet according to our demand and routine. The Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is not fancy dogs. They can easily adapt to the basic routine of your life. They are very obedient. The adoption can be done from a rescue center and a shelter home. The prices at these pickup points are low compared to the prices of a well-known breeder. These dogs require appreciation of even little basic tasks. It encourages them to be obedient and please their people. Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix Lifespan The lifespan of Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is up to 15 years. They may live even longer than that if proper care and attention are provided to them. They can last up to 20 years. There may be some health issues associated with these dogs. They should be vaccinated for some common health problems including distemper, parvo, rabies, and bordetella. Before adopting these dogs, check their health status. Check if they are tested negative against anaplasmosis, Lyme, Ehrlichia, and heartworm. If you are going to adopt a pet for the first time, think twice. Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix Price The price of a Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix is high. These dogs may cost in the range of dollars to dollars. The size, age, color, and traits affect the price. The price of a pedigree differs from the price of a puppy. These dogs require grooming sessions as well. Their coat requires brushing and cleaning. So, always expect some extra expenses on these dogs. If you are buying them from a shelter home or from a rescue center, the prices will be comparatively low. If you contact a well-known breeder, he may charge his desired price for the puppy. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Brittany is known for being intelligent, agile, and happy. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Brittany or the Golden Retriever? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Brittany Golden Retriever Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Brittany Golden Retriever Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Brittany Golden Retriever Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. He was developed in the Brittany region of France between the 17th and 19th centuries and came to the US during the 20th. The first known account of hunting with a Brittany happened in , when an Englishman wrote down his experiences in hunting with a small, brown and white dog that performed exceptionally well in thick brush. The dog pointed instinctively, retrieved happily and was easy to manage in the field. The hunters of today choose the Brittany for many of the same reasons. Black-and-white Brittanys were also excluded. The Brittany arrived in the U. The American breed standard retained the prohibition of dogs with black in their coats, but eliminated the requirement of a naturally short tail. Even today, there are subtle distinctions between French and American Brittanys. This article deals with the American variety. Like many people of his era, he spent a lot of time trying to perfect different breeds. In fact this guy spent a great deal of his life breeding all kinds of different dogs to get various breeds. He was an avid waterfowl hunter so with the Golden Retriever he was looking for a strong, avid hunter but also a dog that was even-tempered in the home. Through various iterations and the breeding of many different breeds of dog, the Golden Retriever slowly emerged. At that time, they were classified as "Retriever — Yellow or Golden. The AKC officially recognized the breed in

This recessive gene dilutes any black pigment on the dog including coat color, nose leather, foot pads, toe nails, lips, etc. It also affects their eye color. Blue pups have a beautiful light gray coat as babies, as they age however is usually darkens up quite a bit, the ones that darken up are called "steel" blues. To the untrained eye, they can be mistaken for regular blacks. There is also "Powder" blues, they tend to lighten up in color and always stay a very noticeable gray color. Powder blues are not seen very often. A blue pup with sable markings We have a couple blues and a few dogs who carry the blue gene. We choose these dogs first and foremost because their temperament, structure and health aligns with the goals of our breeding program. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! We have produced non-traditional colored GSDs that compete in obedience, agility, nose work, etc. I personally love the non-traditional colored German Shepherds. These colors are been in the breed since the beginning and our foundation girl Rose just happened to be a blue! Showing 1 - 22 of 22 resultsPage 1 - 22 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.Urgent Husky puppies Edmonton 2 beautiful puppy left male if fluffy one two brown eyes and female is all white with one blue eye one blue hazel they have probably one of the best temperament I've ever seen very playful very happy.Both parents are blue and tan German shepherds, 60 and 95 pounds, lower energy levels both very nice.They are socialized, vet checked, health certificate, vaccinated, and ready for their new homes! Straight backs. We are a small family-owned dog.Well socialized, affectionate and brave. German Shepherd Blue heeler mix. Located in Hepworth. One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Ready to go to their homes now! Purebred farm raised German Shepherd Puppies available. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.She is a registered longcoat german shepherd, she is a blue and fawn sable. She is a sweet girl and loves just being a couch potato. German shepherd blue Heeler pups!!! Roseisle Two gorgeous females left. Both are very friendly and good with kids. Dad is German shepherd. Both parents are fantastic with people. Puppies are dewormed. She has her first round of needles and is ready to go to her.He is very playful and is 7 weeks old. Vaccinated and de-wormed fully. Pee pad trained. He is peepad trained and goes outside to potty. Browse other categories in Pets in Canada.

Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof , and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador. Continue to 2 of 16 below. Continue to 3 of 16 below. Continue to 4 of 16 below. Continue to 5 of 16 below. Continue to 6 of 16 below. A little training will go a long way. Continue to 7 of 16 below. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones. Continue to 8 of 16 below. Pet Project Updated May 25, 3. Are you in the mood to see some adorable photos of Yellow Labrador dogs? This is a list of some of the cutest Yellow Lab photos. You can add your own special Yellow Labrador Retriever photos to the list, and you can vote for your favorite pictures of Yellow Labrador Retrievers to get them ranked higher on the list. The English Labs are heavier, thicker and blockier. The American Labs are from American bred stock and are tall and lanky. Their double coat is smooth and comes in solid black, yellow or chocolate. Labs love to play in water, and are very good-natured and eager to please. They are large dogs, some reaching to over pounds in size. They are also very energetic and need regular mental and physical exercise to keep them stimulated or they can become high-strung. These large dogs excel at almost everything, and can be used for service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, search and rescue and sledding, among many other activities. Labrador Retrievers have a strong willingness to please and are highly intelligent. These beautiful animals make excellent service dogs and are a top choice for service dog work. The nose and eye rims are black on Yellow Labrador Retrievers, and their coloring is a pretty yellow. Enjoy these cute pictures of adult and baby Yellow Labrador Retrievers, and see what great dogs they can be! The inspiration of this blog. Thank goodness he was so cute because he was by far the most difficult puppy to crate train. For those of you interested in crate training your puppy let me tell you…some puppies are easy and take to the crate right away i. While other puppies can take up to months to adjust to the crate i. Stetson is a purebred black Labrador Retriever. He has a big block head and is not the most athletic dog. Now for the good part…take a look at these adorable pictures of my little puppy in training. Nowadays Stetson is almost 2 years old and rarely ever barks. Take a look at these adorable pictures. If so, then fill out the form below and receive the entire Cutest Puppy Ever series daily via email. The final article of the series will allow you to vote on your favorite puppy! Be sure not to miss one puppy picture by filling out your email address in the form below. Enter your email address: One final note. If you are a member of any of these website then can you please stumble, digg, and reddit this post. I added some links to the bottom of the page that will allow you to quickly stumble, digg, or reddit us. Did you read the other articles from this series?

Unfortunately, this sometimes includes cats. Dogs inherited this prey drive from their wolf ancestors and despite being domesticated over 12, years ago, they still have this instinct ingrained in their behavior. We can still be friends! Contrary to popular belief, cats and dogs can actually be best friends! With a little bit of forethought and patience, your French Bulldog is sure to do great around cats. You want your Frenchie to be able to respond and behave in any situation to reduce the risk of injury. Realistic expectations Have realistic expectations for the first few meetings. Just like us humans, it takes time for pets to develop a friendship. Be patient. Picking the proper location for your pets to meet for their first time is crucial. Just your cat and dog. The last thing you want to do when introducing your French Bulldog to any cat is to immediately place them a room together with no rules! Keep the two separated at first; let them adjust to their new environment. Once you have the cat and dog going about their own business, as usual, they are ready for their first meeting. The first meeting The first meeting should be brief. Around ten minutes is a good guideline. Reward your dog for calm behavior with praise and treats. Your meetings should be similar to the first one until your Frenchie has calmed down and is ignoring the cat. Your cat will be comfortable when it is calm, eating and using its litter box as it does normally. If you feel things are getting out of hand, separate them immediately. As things go on You can slowly increase the amount of time they spend together over time. If you notice any signs of aggression or anxiety from either animal, stop the meeting immediately and reduce the duration of the next meeting. Keep the leash on just in case, but keep it loose enough so he can move as he wishes. Never leave them alone unsupervised This is especially important in the early phases of their friendship. You never know when things may go wrong; it just takes one accident. Exercise and walks to tire out your Frenchie Before your Frenchie and cat meet, it is always a great idea to go for a walk or play fetch to tucker him out. It gives you complete control over the situation and lets you stop things the moment they get out of hand. Reward calm behavior Positive reinforcement is much better than yelling and reprimanding your dog. Why should I be concerned? A large part of communication in both humans and animals is body language. Unlike us humans, animals obviously cannot verbally communicate; their body language is their only method of communication. Confusion over body language For example, a dog may raise its paw to the cat to signal it wants to play, however, the cat might interpret this as a form of aggression and attack the dog. Another example is that cats often rub up against people or dogs to be friendly, but your dog might take this gesture as a threat. An overexcited Frenchie can seriously injure or even kill a cat. Cats can also seriously hurt a Frenchie with just one scratch. Be extra precautious if the cat is known for swiping at things. What to do if things get out of hand Warning signs If you notice any of the following signs, you should be wary of going on with their meetings. If you are determined for them to have a good friendship, you might want to consider getting help from a professional animal behaviorist. Your Frenchie is overfocused, ignores you, and lunges at the cat when it moves. This situation could end dangerously Your Frenchie lunges, growls, or shows any signs of aggression toward a calm, quiet cat. The cat is growing, hissing, or swatting. Give the cat a break and try again in a few days. The cat is obviously not happy around your Frenchie. The cat is not eating, drinking, or using its litter box when the dog is around. There are steps to follow when introducing your dog to a new cat that will set everyone up for success. You will read more about helping your Frenchie and new cat live together peacefully, but some tips can apply to a cat friend that does not live with you. While Frenchies can usually meet and get along with new dogs pretty well, this can be trickier with a cat. Anything is worth a try, though! A basic yet important condition for dogs and cats intermingling is that neither of the two has had negative experiences with the other to date. If a cat has been frightened by a particular dog before, it is highly unlikely that the cat has forgotten and will be able to exist comfortably around that dog. The same could be said vice versa. Introducing your dog to a new cat and socializing the two pets at a very young age, ideally under several months old, is your best bet for the two getting along. They have completely different origins and languages. These facts result in cats and dogs not clicking very well. Origin Cats descend from an ancient wildcat and are known to have domesticated themselves when farming began, and cats stayed around for food. Dogs descend from wolves who are social and loyal, which may be why dogs get along with people so well. Because cats and dogs are so different, introducing a dog to a new cat can be difficult. Preparing for the First introduction Luckily for Frenchie owners, Frenchies are usually good at getting along with others by their affectionate nature. While Frenchies and cats have a good chance of living together in perfect harmony, there is some prep work you can do when you are going to introduce a cat to your Frenchie. Plan the Introduction In order to succeed, you must prepare everything precisely for the first meeting. There needs to be another person present in the initial phase. This means that one person will be in charge of the cat while you are in charge of your Frenchie. It is important that you can be fully focused on the first meeting. Special events, such as visiting friends or a family reunion, should not take place at this time. Not only can many people disturb this first introduction, but so can loud music or sounds from the television. Therefore, plan the meeting in a quiet space. Choosing a New Cat to Meet my Frenchie If you do not have a specific cat in mind to become your second pet, it is best to choose a cat that fits well with your current situation at home. You should account for the character of your Frenchie. While most of them are peaceful and calm, some can be a little more hyper or active. For example, if you have an older French Bulldog at home, the new cat should be fairly quiet and not too wild. This thought process for your new pet can also be applied if you already have a cat and are getting a new French Bulldog. The same goes for a Frenchie meeting a cat friend, not a new cat roommate. Keep in mind that adding a new dog to a family with a cat can be a harder transition than adding a new cat to a family with a dog. Prepare Your Home for Introduction When you know that you are getting a new pet or a different animal is coming to visit , there are tips for preparing your home to ensure that introducing your cat to a new dog will go well. A place that is fairly new to both animals is best. Escape options: A specified way to escape can help prevent conflict. Let this place be known to the other person so that either of you can grab the pet you are responsible for and get out if needed. Comfort for cat: As mentioned, this introduction will likely be more difficult for the cat. Have something like a scratching post , a raised board, or an empty window sill where the cat can go. This will also allow them to observe the dog from a distance. Private spaces: If this introduction is amongst both your pets, make private spaces for the pets. Set up a dog and cat bed with toys in separate rooms away from the other pet. Allow time to relax and regroup alone with the pets. Food bowl and litter box: Spatial separation is also recommended for pets during feeding time. To prevent food envy, it is best to feed the animals at different times. Just like the food bowl, the litter box is absolutely taboo for the dog. The cat in the litter box needs its rest and reacts very sensitively to a disruption of their privacy. Often dogs tend to eat excrement in the litter box, after which the cat turns to other places and pollutes it. You can caress the fur of both animals with a dry cloth and place it on the feeding place of the other animal. This allows the two pets to get used to the smell of the other and connect the smell to something positive through the combination with food. If a cat enters a dog household, you should give the cat the opportunity to explore the area by himself for the first encounter to get used to smells. Treats: Have treats ready for both pets in the meeting area. They will be used for positive reinforcement in the first introduction. Introducing your dog to a new cat still takes some effort and time after the preparation. There is a good chance that the dog and cat will not immediately hit it off, given their nature. You are prepared, and you know what to expect. With that said, make sure neither pets are hungry. Make sure the space where pets meet is quiet, and leash your Frenchie. Putting your dog on a leash is extremely important to avoid potentially dangerous situations with the two pets. Stress and Anxiety at First Contact When you and your Frenchie are ready, allow the other person to bring the cat into the space. Let the cat decide how close it wants to come to the dog. Anxiety and nervousness generally prevail and are gradually replaced by a certain curiosity about the new housemate. Relaxation is Key It is important that you radiate peace and serenity. If you are tense or nervous at the first meeting, you will probably also transfer this to both pets. Gently pet both animals and use a calm and quiet voice when speaking. You can ask your dog to sit and only praise him if he manages to stay calm in the presence of the cat. A treat helps as positive reinforcement. For this to work, they should only be rewarded if the dog or cat has behaved well. No matter how well the meeting may go, end it after a few minutes. Getting Used to Each Other After the first introduction is over, practice is key! Depending on how much anxiety the cat displays, you should limit the acquaintance in the first few days to a few minutes a day. In the remaining time, the animals can stay in separate rooms. Initially, it is sufficient for both animals to have 1 or 2 meetings of five minutes a day each. After about two weeks, if you notice that the excitement is decreasing, you can extend the meeting time to 10 or 15 minutes. Do not force both animals and let them decide when they are ready for a longer time together in a room. As an owner, you know your pets best, and you will be able to see when the curiosity of the new roommate is greater than the initial fear of each other. Only when the dog no longer sees the cat as prey or an intruder, and the cat no longer sees the dog as a predator are they really ready to hopefully interact on a friendly level or at least live peacefully together? It will take time for them to get to know each other. Once the pets show civil tolerance for one another for a period of time, bring them in a space together more while you focus your attention on something other than the animals. Have your two pets together in a space while you cook, read, or chat on the phone. This shows your Frenchie and the cat that it is normal that they live together in the same house. Leaving the Two Alone Together Leaving your home while your Frenchie and cat fend for themselves together will take quite some time. This can take several months to a year. Use your best judgment here. Be sure that they only react nicely to one another and that you have seen no harm done to one another for a very long time. Until you are completely comfortable leaving them alone together, keep them in separate spaces i. The Road to an Established Team Introducing your cat to a new dog has likely taken some time. The goal is that your patience will pay off, and your French bulldog and the new cat will be a successful team who lives together happily. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. We had good results, and our French Bulldog temperament with cats has been fine well with our own cat anyway! Do French Bulldogs get along with cats? French bulldogs are good with cats, as long as you make sure the introduction is done slowly and surely. In this guide, I am going to firstly talk about how our cat got used to having a French bulldog in the house, with the steps we took to make the introduction as smooth as possible. Then after that, you can see results of a survey, plus some additional information on other things you might want to try to help them get along. There is also some details on what to do with an older Frenchie when a kitten comes into your home. French Bulldog temperament with cats: our personal experience We had a cat way before we got our Frenchie, Claude. Poopie was 11 years old when Claude arrived in our home and to be honest, we were worried on how she would react to a hectic puppy invading her space. Poopie has always been very territorial. I remember a conversation I had with my wife before we committed to buying our Frenchie, that all hell was going to break loose when we got home. My wife and Poopie the cat proved me wrong. In fact, in the video below you can see our French Bulldog and cat playing together with a laser pen. Using the steps below, we limited the amount of fur flying, and now have two pets that live in relative harmony together. Claude was around 14 weeks old when we first got him, and using a crate was an essential part of training. To introduce him to Poopie that cat, we placed him in his crate, and then let her wander into the room. Her first reaction was shock. Her hackles went up, and she stalked around the room. But after a few minutes her curiosity got the better of her, and she went up to the crate to sniff and check him. It was time to let him out. Before doing so, we placed our cat up on a table, so she had the higher ground and was in a position of strength. Claude ran out and wanted to play with her — he was a puppy after all — and our cat looked at him with a mix of displeasure and still the curiosity. They are now great friends. After about an hour, she got bored of sitting on the table, and jumped down. He chased her around the kitchen, she gave him a swipe, and he seemed to know his place in the pecking order after that! Mainly this was with our dog. For example, if he jumped up at the cat, we would be firm with him. But if he was relaxed and gentle with her, we praised him and gave him a treat. That let him learn that good behaviour is to be rewarded. Give your cat plenty of attention Poopie the cat was used to having her own space, so having Claude suddenly on the scene did put her nose out of joint — and understandably so. Watch for problems and warning signals And lastly, look out for any signs that trouble could be brewing. For example, is your Frenchie exhibiting signs of aggression, or is your cat looking stressed. Cats can urinate indoors when they feel threatened, or go off their food completely. Either of them could also start lunging, swiping, scratching and biting at each other. If this happens which it rarely did for us thankfully , then give them both a break for 24 hours and keep them separate for a while before trying again. What to do after the introduction and longer term I believe a lot of our success was due to the fact that our Frenchie was smaller than our cat when the introduction happened. That must have meant that she felt less threatened than she would have done if he was a fully-grown Frenchie coming into her territory. This is definitely the key to keeping our French Bulldog temperament and behavior ok with our cat. This gives her a feeding place where she can relax and eat without our Frenchie wolfing down her food before she gets a chance. French bulldogs are greedy and will eat anything that they find. It is so important to do this, because cats are very territorial, and French bulldogs are very greedy, so it could be a potential flashpoint. They might even end up sharing a bed Our pets have now known each other for over 2 years. And yes, they will even share a bed themselves together they get along so well! Please note: Quick disclaimer here, this is his crate from when he was a puppy and we were training him. The only time that crate door is ever shut is if we have a visitor come to our house who is nervous of dogs. We occasionally also let them both come upstairs and chill out with us on our bed. You can see them both doing just that in the photo below: They get along so much that they will even share our bed from time to time! Do our French bulldog and cat get along ALL the time? No, and I would be lying if I was to say it was complete harmony all year round. There have been a couple of instances in the last 2 years when our cat has given our Frenchie a swipe. Sometimes our French Bulldog is scared of our cat. Usually it happens when the dog is excited. Occasionally when Claude has the wind up his tail, he will chase our cat. That can be in the kitchen or round the garden. She will always out pace him though, and quickly finds sanctuary up a tree or on a table. And the weird thing is, a few seconds later she will come down and they will both act as if nothing has happened. Well, this is a slightly different issue. When Claude sees a cat in our neighbourhood, he is naturally inquisitive, and his first instinct is to run up to it. The cat, who probably hates all dogs, gave Claude a very deep scratch across his nose. We ended up having to take him to the vet. Will my cat get on with a French bulldog though? So, I did the next best thing, and ran a poll on Facebook to see what other people say. Yes, but they just tolerate each other really. This is what happened when I asked Frenchie and cat owners what they thought. So, what does that mean for you? Nothing in reality as it really does boil down to the individual cats and dogs in question and how you manage it. The best tips I found for this was on the Adopt a Pet website. You can see how they do it on their 6 step guide. Which dogs are good with cats? As part of my research into this guide, I also wanted to find out which dogs are good with cats, and whether any particular breeds are better than others. If you already own a cat, and are thinking about getting a Frenchie, you might also want to consider some alternative breeds. I found this list on the BarkPost. Labrador Retriever. This small breed has won the hearts of millions of pet owners who just have to have one of these wrinkled smoosh-faced doggos in their homes. But what if you already have a cat? How do French Bulldogs and cats get along? Environmental factors and genetics always play a role in personality, but generally speaking, adult Frenchies are a small, loving breed with big bat ears and little love for exercise. Image by Martin dalsgaard from Pixabay There are some slight differences between females and males, too. Males are more likely to be playful and assertive, whereas females tend to be more docile and timid. If the dog has a bad upbringing in its formative puppy months, undesirable traits may become part of its adult personality. They also tend to have a bit of a stubborn streak which solidifies as they age. If you start young, though, no dog is beyond training. Frenchies love to be the center of attention. They want that coveted spot on your lap just like cats sleep by your head. Depending on the personality of your cat, the two may end up feeling competitive over who gets to snuggle in the prime positions on or near their person. If both of them are fairly stubborn, you may have a bit of a trial in training them to get along. The important thing is to never neglect one in favor of the other. If you take the time to introduce your new pup to your cat the right way, this will help solidify their friendship and make them feel more secure in their relationship with you, too. It just might take more time for them to come to a mutual understanding. Here are the steps of introduction you should follow for a smooth meeting: 1. Separate Them at First Delegate a room for your cat and then let your pup roam around the house, getting used to their new environment and all the strange smells and items. You can keep them separate for a few days at first until they become familiar and comfortable with the smells of each other. Image by Mar from Pixabay 2. Bring in a Barrier The next step is letting them see each other so they can finally realize who that smell is coming from. It should also be done in short intervals at first — ten minutes is more than enough — and if you feed treats and reinforce good behavior with praise, even better! Monitor both their body language and behavior, and remove them if you notice any signs of stress or aggression. Give your unsettled pet plenty of comfort, and keep attempting these barrier-distance interactions until they manage to endure it comfortably with as little stress as possible. But be close at hand at all times, ready to intervene if you notice any unhappiness. Your cat might start purring and biting, or your pup might display stress signals like yawning or shaking. Either way, simply remove them from close proximity and try again later. Remember to reward their tolerance for each other with praise and treats , and they will grow to accept the other more readily with your encouragement. Perhaps your cat is too old to put up with the energy of a puppy, or maybe your pup is too anxious around your kitty. Even with the best socialization practices and techniques, some throwback genes may make this meeting a tough one. This is only likely to make them more anxious around each other and provoke aggressive behavior. Try to discourage bad behavior if you see it happening. If your cat is harassing the pup and taking swipes at them, a timeout is in the cards for your kitty. Call in a behaviorist. This french bulldogs and cats post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase I will most likely receive a small commission. Just wanted to make sure you knew. Related Posts:.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You probably already know that learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy can be a stressful time. But… once you know these easy steps, great things happen! Knowing how to potty train your German Shepherd is vital to having a happy, comfortable life with them. Use this training consistently to have the most effect. A proactive approach works best. Which means you should… focus on preventing accidents, instead of waiting on them to happen! Follow a strict feeding and bathroom schedule to see the best results. Basically, you teach your German Shepherd puppy the right potty skills… until it becomes a habit humanesociety. The key to quick success is taking your pup out every 2 to 3 hours and never giving the opportunity for them to have an accident inside. This means at least 8 to 10 trips outside every single day! In their welcoming and safe crate either resting, eating their meals, or enjoying a play toy. In an exercise pen or playpen with a strict potty area. Under your direct, undivided attention. This means you are always watching your pup. All it takes is for you to check your phone for a few seconds for your pup to have a toileting accident! You can either use a crate to speed up their potty training or provide them an area indoors to eliminate. I prefer the crate method. Housebreaking with the use of a crate speeds up your success rate incredibly! But you want to use the crate positively so they learn to love their little den. Make their crate an enjoyable and inviting place to go. How to show your pup how to love their crate: Never force your pup into their crate! Take your time with crate introduction and allow them to explore under their own will. Serve your pup at least one meal a day inside their crate. Use a Kong with their meal stuffed inside and mixed with a small spoonful of unsweetened Greek yogurt or peanut butter to entice them to stay and work on the Kong inside the crate. Offer treats when they willingly go inside to rest or explore their crate. Use a verbal cue when you want your pup to go into the crate. You can learn all the benefits of teaching your dog to use their crate in this easy post on crate training your German Shepherd successfully. Check it out to get the complete facts, tips, and step-by-step instructions to perfect crate training today. Use Puppy Pads You can use puppy pads if you need to… or skip to step 4 to learn potty training without pads. Not going to use puppy pads? You can skip to step 4. But… if you prefer to use puppy pads, then you need an area where you always take your dog when they need to go to the bathroom. Preferably place their pads near the door that you eventually want them to use to go outside. Place more pads down than you think you need at first. This is because puppies have poor aim and also may find a spot they prefer other than the one you pick. After a couple of weeks, you may remove the extra pads until there are only two puppy pads on the floor in the primary area they prefer to go. Keep the food and water area away from the puppy pads in another place. Using Puppy Pads Successfully Change your puppy pads as they become soiled. But a lightly soiled pad is attractive to your pup in the beginning stages of training and helps them learn the right area to potty indoors at first. Once they are reliably using the correct spot, you need not continue to use this trick and can throw away the pads as they become too soiled. Training Them to Go Outside After Using Pads Indoors If you set up your pads near the door you use to take them outside to their elimination area, then you can transition them to go outside more easily. So, place or move your puppy pads closer to the door from their original spot to begin the transition to the outdoors. When your pads are close to the door, watch them for their elimination signs and get them to the outside as swiftly as you can. While I generally use a crate to house train my German Shepherd puppy I also totally understand that you might prefer to learn how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy using a puppy pad for any number of reasons. Teach Them a Potty Routine Every day, follow the same routine and schedule to keep your puppy from having accidents inside your house. Teaching your dog to eliminate outside means that you must have a strict schedule. Watch for signs that your pup needs to go potty so you can avoid indoor accidents. Morning Potty Routine First thing in the morning when you let your pup out of their crate or from their sleeping area take them to their potty spot. If in doubt, carry them outside yourself. If you will not leash your pup when you take them out in the morning, then run ahead of them to lead them outside quickly. If you have stairs, carry your pup since rushing downstairs on a full bladder is never a good idea. Outside Potty Routine Stay with your pup until they do their business. You can place your pup in a small confined area to go potty or keep them leashed to you. Stand quietly until they potty. Then, praise them and offer a tasty treat. This can bore you at first, but potty training a German Shepherd puppy becomes easier every day. After 10 to 15 minutes, take them out of their crate and repeat the above process. Learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy takes repetition and patience. How do you know when to take your GSD puppy outside to potty? Take them out after a nap. They need to relieve themselves after sleeping or napping in their crates. Take them out after a play session. Take them out after they drink a large amount of water. Take them out first thing in the morning and the last thing before you place them in their crate or go to bed. Take your dog out when their body language says they are searching for a potty spot! You should take out your German Shepherd puppy every 2 hours for an 8-week-old pup. Add an hour for each month your pup is old. So, a week-old dog needs to go out every 3 hours. And a week-old German Shepherd needs to go outside to relieve herself every 4 hours. Puppy Age How often do you take them outside to potty? Most dogs do not have full bladder control until they are six months old. This means that even if your puppy does learn to hold it, accidents may still happen if it is left inside too long. Not potty training early can extend the process and make things harder. As the puppy grows, the mess and smells will increase. It is also harder to break an existing habit than prevent one from starting in the first place. How long on average does it take to potty train a puppy? If everything goes according to plan, your German Shepherd can be potty trained within five days. However, that does not mean your pup will be able to be locked indoors for eight hours while you go to work and not make a mess. Therefore, a two-month-old puppy needs to go out every two hours. A three-month-old can hold for three, and so on. German Shepherds also often have a high play drive and might completely forget that they need to potty when they want to play instead. There are few things more frustrating than playing outside with your puppy for an hour, only to have them calm down enough to relieve themselves the moment they come indoors. Have a complimentary diet An upset stomach is one of the most common setbacks in housetraining. In particular, puppies are vulnerable to garbage gut because they tend to eat anything smelly or exciting. This is another reason to make use of a crate. Excellent digestive health is not only good for your puppy, but it makes it much easier to stick to your routine. Use a specific door By now, you might be noticing a theme of consistency and routine emerging. Taking your puppy out through the same door helps condition and imprint the housetraining process on your dog and will also serve you later when your dog learns to always ask to go outside at the same door. Leash and lead The leash or lead is a further way of conditioning your puppy. The lead ensures that you can keep them close and make sure they always go to the specific spotty to potty. Do some research on the best collar for German Shephards , as there are some breed specific requirements. Then give a treat or some playtime to reward the correct behavior. Guide your dog back inside A potty run needs to be conditioned as a potty run. While praise, playtime, and treats should be used to make it a positive experience, your pup must learn to stay focused on the task at hand. Creating a negative experience for your dog is more likely to cause sneaky behavior such as peeing and pooping secretly out of fear that you will reprimand them if caught. Make sure you check on your puppy at least twice throughout the night Set an alarm clock and check if your puppy is awake and restless at least twice a night. This is your cue to take the pup outside. If the crate is near your bed and you are a light sleeper, you will likely wake when you hear rustling or whimpering. Stick to a routine A rigid routine is the quickest and smoothest route to a house-trained puppy. Be sure to take the puppy outside as soon as it wakes up in the morning, as well as after a nap, after playtime, and after meals. Until they are at least twelve weeks old, they should be taken out a minimum every two hours during the day. Positive Reinforcement As with all dog training, positive reinforcement works best. Make sure to praise and reward within three seconds of your puppy going potty to make a positive association. While your German Shepherd is learning that the entire house is out of bounds for elimination, the crate is a useful tool to avoid accidents. Once this has been achieved, you can gradually allow your puppy more free rein indoors. Pee Pads are not helpful. Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below. Check Price on Amazon 1. If the puppy is running towards you, for example, you can begin clapping. For now, notice the following and set distinct anchors for each. For the time being, you should avoid anchors that are excessively similar to one another. My German Shepherd Willow — 8 weeks old 2. As you train your pup to understand and respond to more complex commands, this helps eliminate a lot of the resistance. As a result, the initial step should be to persuade your German Shepherd to stick close to you. We all know that dogs are descended from wolves, and wolves follow the pack leader, which means you! Needless to say, when training a 2-month-old German Shepherd puppy, you have to incentivize him to follow you. You need to build a positive reinforcement loop and let your German Shepherd establish an association between following you and receiving a pleasant experience. You can start taking unexpected turns and training your puppy to follow you despite the direction changes after your puppy has become motivated to follow you for the reward. At a young age, you should take your puppy out and about and allow him to utilize his sociability potential. One method is to pay visits to friends and family. You might also look for a dog park and take him there. Keep in mind that your pet is still learning to walk with you and follow directions. Make sure your pup has a positive experience outdoors. It is worth noting that you should socialize and introduce him to new experiences as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training You should start potty training your German Shepherd puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. I cordoned off a small area and added some bark chippings. Even now, my GSD will not go on the sidewalk or hard surfaces! It has to be grass or somewhere soft. Next, you need a potty training schedule. Always take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, hourly, and before retiring to bed. Deter Biting If you read my blog regularly, you know that I am opposed to punishment-based training. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can actually cause aggression. If someone recommends such negative approaches, you should approach a qualified trainer and learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy not to bite. Instead, you can wait until your GSD bites during a positive activity before stopping it. This will help to anchor the result better. For example, if your German Shepherd puppy fiercely takes a treat from your hand, you can withhold the second treat until he learns to take it gently. You should act upset and convey that what he has done has hurt you. Use positive reinforcement to encourage proper behavior by rewarding with a treat. Your German Shepherd will quickly learn that good behavior is rewarded with good things. Puppies must continue to learn bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the work their mother taught them and what they learned from their littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You have to use your best judgment and patience when training your dog. In general, by the tenth week, your German Shepherd will be mature enough to understand self-control. Teach the Heel Position While your 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy will initially follow you, adjusting your pace will soon have him walking alongside you in the heel position, on your left side, without a leash, harness, or fear of punishment. To train your puppy to assume the natural heel position, use a clicker, whistle, or use your voice as a marker. Chances are, at first, your German Shepherd will also try to change his pace to walk behind you because of habit. You can avoid this problem by walking where your dog is used to. Assume Positions on Command — Sit, Down, Stand Your 3-months old German Shepherd puppy is now old enough to learn how to sit, stand, or hold a down position. You can teach him these new skills and assume a heel stance, which you have previously taught him. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included a clicker, whistle, clap, or saying a specific word to show your German Shepherd is doing a good job, generally followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! You used to whistle when your GSD approached you; now, you must whistle for him to start his run. This is the foundation of his recall training. While this allows the puppy to be more social when visitors arrive, an adult dog must learn to walk outside without behaving badly. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training, for example, teaching him to touch a target with a specific part of his body, such as his paw or nose. Remember that your German Shepherd may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. I recommend teaching your German Shepherd to use his nose to touch your hand. This is a fantastic bite substitute! Hand targeting is a fun way to train your dog to trust you while also getting him to use his brain! Begin by asking him to sit for a few seconds and gradually extend the time. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your German Shepherd to public parks and he has watched other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your GSD may not bring the toy back to you for a second time, but he will eventually figure it out. Over the next few weeks, you can gradually turn it into a game of fetch, rewarding your puppy with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of German Shepherd training, you will continue toilet training to a degree of independence. Maintain a regular schedule and match your walks with his natural cycle to coincide with when he needs to go. Teach Your German Shepherd to Walk on the Leash Learning to walk on a leash outside is an important element of dog training. Use it to control your German Shepherd and then test his ability to follow commands off-leash. Many dog owners will opt for a rear attached harness. How to Train a 5 Month Old German Shepherd Puppy You have adequately socialized and trained your dog to recognize and associate attention, toys, walks, and food as rewards. Your five-month-old German Shepherd puppy is now ready to be put to the test for general obedience and the capacity to deal with distractions. These could be other dogs, strangers, or animals like squirrels or birds. But, if you introduce distractions gradually, your five-month-old puppy can deal with them. You must be ready for your dog to run ahead of you now! Assume, however, that you have built a strong bond with your puppy and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay close to you and prove his loyalty by sticking by your side. The good news is that all of your past training will make it easier for your dog to obey your instructions. Conclude Potty Training Your German Shepherd has had months to learn how to tell you his need to go potty. He has also likely refined how to hold his bladder instead of peeing on the floor. As a result, if your dog makes a mess, you can express your displeasure through your body language. But, all dogs can still have the odd accident up to one year old. Besides, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened. This is known as either excitement or submissive urination. During this time, energy levels increase , especially in larger breed dogs. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old German Shepherd can exercise for one hour if you split his walks into two thirty-minute sessions. To train your 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy, start with two commands that will be most useful. As previously stated, you will be exercising your German Shepherd much more frequently from now on. You can teach these commands or tricks in any order from six months onwards until your German Shepherd is a well-trained adult. This is an excellent skill to teach your GSD and is one of the commands taught to police and protection dogs. This is a difficult task, but your German Shepherd will eventually master it if you practice and keep consistent. The eighth month is the time for training your German Shepherd to go to different places upon hearing your command word. This could be for practical reasons or to maximize the intellect of your dog. Alternatively, you might spend the ninth month teaching him a fun party trick! Teach Your German Shepherd to Spin By dangling a tasty treat in front of your German Shepherd and moving it in a circle until he starts to spin, you prime him for a command anchor. After a week or so, you teach your German Shepherd to follow your finger without first using a treat. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he obeys the command. By the third week, you should be able to ask your dog to spin without using your finger to guide him. It might take an extra couple of weeks, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your dog to learn previous commands better. You can train him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now develop this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your one-year-old German Shepherd continues to learn at the same rate as he has since he was six months old. What will change is that your dog will interact with other people more frequently. You can train him to do additional tricks to give him a more appealing presence. This will deter him from merely barking for attention. You should also review previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. If anything, this is the period where you tailor his training to your convenience. But now is the time when your German Shepherd must learn to be harmonious with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your doggo to be compatible with modern adult life within reason. Do not be alarmed if you have an month-old German Shepherd who appears to have had no previous training! Start by establishing authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your new friend recognizes your authority and sees you as his leader, treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. You should train your German Shepherd puppy for short and frequent sessions, ideally minutes, several times a day. As your puppy grows and matures, you can gradually increase the duration and complexity of the training sessions. What are the most important commands to teach my German Shepherd puppy? Come command helps to call your puppy back to you in case of an emergency or when you want to end a play session. Heel command teaches your puppy to walk calmly beside you on a leash, and Leave It command helps to prevent your puppy from eating something harmful or dangerous. German Shepherds are a highly trainable and intelligent breed. Your job as a trainer becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule in place and stick to your routine. My month-by-month German Shepherd puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and make him into the cherished companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Puppy accidents are inevitable and can also be the most frustrating part of welcoming a new dog into your household. However, with a little bit of patience and the commitment to establishing a routine, you should get your GSD puppy potty trained in no time. This article will dive into how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy as well as give you step-by-step instructions and tips for success. German Shepherds become aware of their ability to control their bodily functions at around 3 weeks old. However, it is best to start potty training as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually, this is around 8 weeks of age. So, a 2-month old can hold their pee for about 2 hours. To avoid accidents, take them for potty breaks once every hour. No, not all adult German Shepherds are potty trained. Nevertheless, the general process of training an adult is pretty much the same as potty training a puppy. The key is in setting your rules and establishing a routine from the beginning. Ideally, choose a relatively quiet place. German Shepherds, like many other dog breeds, are creatures of habit. Having a designated potty area and using it consistently is key to making this process work smoothly. When dogs eliminate, their urine and feces leave behind a unique scent. Smelling it will signal to their brains that it is, indeed, time to go potty. Step 2: Establish a schedule Just like having a consistent potty area, sticking to a regular schedule is essential. Take very young puppies to their designated potty area every hour. As they age and as they become familiar with the routine, you can lengthen the time between their potty breaks. Start by choosing a command and sticking with it. When your pup gets to their potty spot, say your chosen command. Then say your command again and praise your pup as soon as your pup has successfully eliminated. You can usually tell this by their body language. Keep doing that until you can just give the command and your pup knows to squat and poop. Step 4: Reinforce positive potty behavior Whenever your GSD pup potties successfully, give them a good time! Reward them especially when they potty on command. Make sure you give them lots of praises and maybe a good head scratch. Depending on what motivates them, reward them with food or play. Step 5: Give it time and patience Following these steps will give you the best chance of success, but expect it to take some time. Top Tips for Potty Training Success German Shepherds are easy to train , so by following the proper potty training steps, you should get your GSD pup housebroken in no time. Nevertheless, here are some tips that will set you up for success and allow you to get over this tedious phase much more quickly: Tip 1: Make crate training a priority Crate training offers plenty of critical benefits, especially to puppies. Apart from providing a private space where they can feel safe, the right crate can be an excellent housebreaking tool. Tip 2: Establish a routine German Shepherds tend to thrive on a daily routine, so try your best to make every day the same for them. It will also help you more accurately predict when they need to go potty. Try to limit feeding times to three times a day for puppies younger than 6 months. German Shepherds that are at least 6 months old can eat once in the morning and then again in the evening. Tip 4: Withhold water at night Dogs should always have access to clean drinking water, but free access to a water bowl will make potty training more difficult. Once housebroken, your dog can have free access to water. When you take your dog out to potty, try to keep yourself relaxed and only talk when giving the potty command. This will also make your post-potty reward extra special. Disciplining your puppy for a potty accident is likely to do more harm. It will lead to negative potty behavior like being afraid to eliminate in your presence as well as feeling anxiety over having to pee or poop. Just clean it up and hope you can both do better next time. If your dog is having accidents too regularly, you likely need to take your dog out more frequently to prevent it. This is also the best way to maintain proper hygiene and good health. Tip 8: Listen and observe Dogs have their own way of communicating and will be especially communicative when they need to go potty. Some dogs might whine while others paw at the door. You just need to establish a routine and give them time to develop full control over their bladder and bowels. As long as you are committed to following your protocol, you should be able to enjoy a fully housebroken dog soon enough.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Before we get into the nitty-gritty of choosing the right German shepherd puppy for you, there are several things that you may want to consider. Is this the right breed for me? It breaks my heart that more and more German shepherds are being abandoned or dumped by first-time owners who are unprepared or uneducated about the breed. When choosing a new canine companion, most people often ask what kind of puppy they want instead of what kind of dog they want. And here lies a big difference between the former and the latter. All puppies, no matter what the breed or cross, traverse their first year through the exact same phases, but when they reach adulthood, each dog can have different breed-specific characteristics. Can you afford the cost of owning a German shepherd? Where do you live? Is your apartment German shepherd friendly? Is your home big enough to house a full-sized German shepherd? Do you have enough time to care for a German shepherd dog? Are you willing to sacrifice weekends and evenings to train, socialize, and exercise your shepherd? Do your family support your decision to get a German shepherd? Is there someone in your family who is allergic to dogs? How will you share responsibilities? If you live alone, do you have someone to assist you? Is there a doggy daycare nearby? Sure, female shepherds may tend to be a little more protective of their owners and people, whereas male shepherds may tend to be more protective of their territories. Females may be a bit more affectionate but more prone to mood swings, while males may be more dominant and aggressive. Neutering can make male German shepherds less aggressive and less likely to roam looking for available females. Today both sexes can equally be equally loving and loyal to their owners and families, and both can be equally brave and protective. In conformation, SV and other organizations recognize both male and female. Female shepherds are smaller and appear more refined or feminine than the male ones. Really, when faced with the question of which sex is best for you? It really all boils down to the individual puppy. Most owners get their German shepherds from a breeder, a shelter, and a rescue group. Out of the three, a breeder is the most expensive but the best place to get your future shepherd. Be cautious with breeders who are reluctant to share information and stories about their dogs. Another sign of a reputable breeder is that they have a take-back policy on all their puppies. Where do you find a list of potential breeders? You can find potential German shepherd breeders through the internet, specifically through major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club or local breed clubs or through advertising the local paper or magazines. Some people even go to the extent of attending dog shows and performance events to find the best breeders in their area, which I encourage you to do if you have time. Sometimes you can find wonderful German shepherd puppies at the local shelter or rescue group. Adopting a rescue shepherd is considerably less expensive than buying a puppy, and you can potentially save their lives. Just understand that they are a bit more of a gamble. Visit The Puppies More Than Once When scouting for a potential puppy, you may be headed to a number of different breeders and shelters. Ideally, you want to visit when the puppies are awake, not when they are napping or sleeping. Ask to stay for a couple of hours so that you can observe how they are playing together. But they are not all alike; they can range in temperament from very bold and outgoing to quiet and shy. When observing a group of German shepherd puppies playing together, you may notice that some pups are bossier than others. You may also notice some puppies that are more cowardly than others. The group of pups you should be looking at and working to decide is the puppies that fall somewhere in between the two extremes. These puppies are exuberant, curious, playful, but not too domineering or pompous in manner or behaving timidly. From this group, you can decide which one to pick. As a rule of thumb, choose a puppy with a temperament that will work well with yours. A good breeder should have done puppy testing when the pups are between 6 and 7 weeks of age. This means they should be able to tell you which puppy has a personality that will complement your own. Male German shepherds tend to stand between 24 and 26 inches tall and weigh between 85 to pounds. Female shepherds are about 20 to 22 inches in height and weigh from about 60 to 75 pounds. German shepherds have a double coat, meaning they have two layers of fur: a medium to long outer coat and a thick, soft undercoat. The length of the outer coat can vary from short to long. The coat can have a range of colors. The most common is black and tan. Other colors include all black, sable, or white. This will help him to point you in the right direction toward a particular pup. Often if your breeder has not already picked a pup for you, you will find a puppy that is naturally drawn to you. Walk over to the puppies, play with them, and rub them gently, then walk away. There will usually at least be at least one puppy that will follow you as you walk away. Play with this puppy and walk back. Kneel and call the pup to you. Are their coats healthy and shiny? Are their eyes clear and bright? Are their living areas kept clean with no visible signs of illness? As touched on earlier, you should ask for a detailed medical history too, such as vaccination records, hereditary diseases, etc. A good breeder should provide you with a health guarantee in the form of writing it. This health guarantee guarantees that the puppy is healthy at the time of the sale. Depending on the contract, you will be given 48 to 72 hours to ensure that the puppy is indeed healthy. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Japanese Spitz is known for being obedient, intelligent, and playful. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Japanese Spitz or the Labrador Retriever? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Japanese Spitz Labrador Retriever Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Japanese Spitz Labrador Retriever Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. It made its debut at a dog show in Tokyo, Japan in .They were originally a chinese breed but made their way to Japan via several German Spitz dogs. These were of course crossbred with other small white dogs from all over the world to create what you see today. After the Second World War they were exported to Sweden and from there they made their migration across the globe. This dog is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. Labrador Retriever History Labrador Retriever, also called a Lab, is a retriever-gun dog—hence the name. The Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds in not only the United States but in the United Kingdom as well. This breed is also frequently trained as a disability assistance animal and are still prized as a sporting and hunting dog to this day. Known for being a loving, loyal and smart breed, the Labrador Retriever is a strong choice among families for the types of dog to bring home. They are great with kids and love to play as much as they can, so going on family adventures is just as exciting for them as it is for the family. The ancestors of the Labrador Retriever—a St. At the same time, over in Canada, the St. In the s, many ancestors of the breed were imported from Newfoundland to Europe to be used for gundogs. Moving forward to s, the 3rd Earl of Malmesbury, the 6th Duke of Buccleuch and the 12th Earl of Home came together to breed what is now the modern Labrador Retriever. In terms of the history of the subtypes of the Labrador Retriever, there is a Yellow and a Chocolate option for this breed. The first Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in while the first Chocolate Labrador Retrievers were established in the s. There is also a black Labrador Retriever. Along with their dashing physical attributes, spitz dogs seem to also share a strong sense of independence—which doesn't seem to interfere with their dedicated love for a special human or two much! What Is a Spitz Dog? Although some spitz dog breeds are loosely related, they're actually not all the same. Lisa Peterson is the breeder content creator at Embark. She tells Daily Paws there are 25 purebred spitz dogs, each hailing from several regions around the world. Peterson says like most purebred dogs, spitz breeds were designed to help humans. But if you're curious about their origins, Peterson says their breed ancestry can be identified by their DNA. We've highlighted some of the top spitz breeds to give you the lowdown on which one or two! Types of American Spitz Dogs These spunky pups worked hard to get where they are today! Breed professionals call them 'prick' ears, and they're common among spitz dogs like Alaskan malamutes. Companions of the ancient Mahlemiut Inuit tribe, mals, as they're often called , shared the heavy loads of their migratory quests across the Kotzebue Sound in northwest Alaska—and distracted polar bears! So naturally, they're used to daily vigorous activities and tasks that keep their sharp minds on point. Start socializing a mal puppy right away and he'll be a terrific—albeit sassy! Although they sport a snow-white coat, Eskies aren't sled dogs, and have nothing to do with the Indigenous group of people of Alaska, Eastern Siberia, and Northern Canada. According to their breed club , these easily-trainable , intelligent dynamos became American circus stars in the early s, dazzling audiences with their feats. If you've always wanted to teach a dog agility skills , an Eskie might be for you. His ancestry dates back more than years. Viewed as a symbol of happiness, health, and long life in his native country, the Akita became popular in the U. Large and in charge, he's a staunch but loving guardian of his people, which means he might snuff at strangers. An Akita also has a strong prey drive , so always take him on long but leashed walks so you both can relieve stress. As one of the world's oldest breeds , she comes by her regal bearing naturally, as her ancestors were companions of emperors. Best suited to adults, she might not be the snuggliest—um, pounds is a lot of lapdog! She settles into apartment living quite well, as she doesn't need a lot of exercise, but start positive reinforcement training early. A Jindo will fill that role well. This athletic spitz hails from South Korea's Jindo Island, and is considered a national monument. However, no one is quite sure how he got there! He could have traveled with sailors on Chinese trade ships or been left behind after Mongol invasions. Still relatively unknown in the U. This national treasure, now the country's No. Experienced dog owners love their independence and truly goofy personality. Make no mistake: Shibas will wander off in an instant, so if you're not leading them on outings in a comfy harness , make sure they have a fenced play area—these clever and curious doggos are exceptionally skilled at 'keep away'! It's possible he's a crossbreed of many other canines in the spitz line. Like all double-coated breeds, this darling is going to ' blow coat ' at least twice a year, shedding like a gorgeous white fur hurricane. But frequent grooming is a minor tradeoff to have such a spirited, happy, and bright pooch who loves dog parks , playtime, and his closest humans. Other Asian spitz breeds:. Categories Dog Breeds , Dog Fun From the water retrievers to the hounds and bulldogs, the canine kingdom has some all types of unique dogs. Spitz dogs are some of the most interesting types of breed. And some of the most popular dog breeds are considered spitz dogs too. In short, spitz dog breeds are dogs known for their long and fluffy coats. These dogs tend to have erect ears and a sharp muzzle. For example, most spitz dogs will have pointed upright and relatively small ears. Their almond shaped eyes sit above their sharp muzzles and strong jaws. These dogs have a dense and fluffy coat. All spitz type dogs have double coats , which just means they have two layers of fur undercoat and top coat. According to Canidae, spitz-type dogs are typically intelligent breeds with a curiosity for life. They tend to be overall good dogs with a sweet disposition. In fact, some spitz breeds are known for their undying loyalty, such as the Akita Inu and Husky. When it comes to the human-dog relationship, the spitz breeds tend to develop a strong bond and love nothing more than to play with their favorite people of the pack. Even if I move her, she comes right back. For these reasons, these dogs need firm and consistent training. Where do Spitz Dogs Come From? However, we do know these dogs likely originated from the blistering cold regions of the arctic circle. Almost always, they were developed to help their human companions with outdoor working tasks, such as herding, hunting and pulling sleds. Though, they were much bigger in the past. Siberian Huskies have a portion of their genome that traces back exclusively to this ancient Siberian wolf. Although prehistoric wolves are extinct, their genetic legacy has been passed down to many spitz breeds, including the most popular Arctic sled dogs. Pomeranian Highlights: Cheerful, Playful, Fun-loving The Pomeranian is one of the most common spitz type dog breed in the world. They may have a small body, but Poms come with a big dog personality and demeanor. Always inquisitive, these toy breeds are all about companionship and human interaction. But keep in mind, the shedding can get a little excessive. Pomeranians are undeniably loyal companions. As a matter of fact, the two dog breeds are closely related and share the same ancestry surprised? Weighing about 25 pounds and growing up to 15 inches tall, the German Spitz is what we imagine the old sled-pulling Pomeranians to be like. For instance, German Spitzes are just as lively and attentive as any other spitz breed. They check all the box marks for key spitz characteristics, including the notoriously heavy shedding thanks to the thick double coat. Huskies are often misunderstood dogs. Their adventurous spirit makes them likely to run if given the chance. Although the two breeds are similar, the Malamute is much larger. These dogs are one of the oldest dog breeds around and believed to be genetically linked to the domesticated wolves that traveled with Paleolithic hunters. Like the Husky, Alaskan Malamutes are world-class sled dogs. They are always vigilant, but not too aloof around unfamiliar humans. These dogs are not historically connected to eskimos. In fact, you can call the German Spitz the direct ancestors of the American Eskimo. The smile keeps them from drooling, which is can be useful in sub zero temperatures and prevent icicles from forming. For example, Samoyeds are much larger and can grow up to 24 inches tall. Samoyeds are gentle enough to play with kids, but also big enough to withstand the rough play. Oh, and they have the signature spitz coat too. They were bred to be courageous hunting dogs that specialized in tracking birds. A Finnish Spitz will run ahead and follow a bird until it lands on a tree. The dog will continue by running around the tree and barking. But when it comes to hunting, they hunt like a skilled dog. Unlike the Finnish Spitz, the Lapphund was not meant for hunting. Instead, these dogs were developed to be excellent reindeer herding dogs. After all, reindeers can weigh up to pounds! Plus, their vigilant nature makes them hesitant with the unfamiliar. Although they love barking and shed like all the other spitz breeds, Lappies are very popular because of their top tier companionship. These dogs were once companions and guardians that traveled across the continent with Vikings. However, the Norwegian Buhund has come a long way since its Viking days. The Buhunds are the ultimate home dogs. Expect your Buhund to weigh up to 40 pounds and standard nearly 19 inches tall. Believed to have sailed with the Vikings , these robust dogs are among the oldest in Europe. Norwegian Elkhounds have all the physical traits that make them obvious spitz dogs. But what makes them unique is the silver-gray and black coat that gives them an exotic yet elegant look. From their sturdy legs to their muscular frames and powerful thighs, they were built to work hard. And despite their relatively modest size, they were used to hunt the most fearsome and biggest wild game. Elkhounds mainly helped with taking down elk and bears. How many dogs can do that? At least, in regards to what they were bred for. They are the only dog breed developed for puffin hunting. Norwegian Lundehunds were bred on a remote island , called Vaeroy just off the coast of Norway. This island is home to over a million puffin birds. They were exceptionally good at this job. Fortunately, puffins are endangered today and these dogs are just friendly companions for homes all over the world. Historians believe these dogs roamed across the continent over a thousand years ago. Around the 8th or 9th century, they were believed to be brought into Wales, which may explain their similarities to the Corgi. For example, the erect ears, sharp snout and elongated bodies are seen in both. With sufficient exercise, Swedish Vallhunds are cheerful and affectionate spitz dogs. They have all the qualities of a spitz breed, including pointy ears, curly tail and dense coat. The Norse settlers needed herding dogs to help on the farm, which was how the Icelandic Sheepdog was born. Despite their fox-like appearance, the Icelandic Sheepdog is very approachable. These dogs still herd today, but more and more are entering the homes of families all across the world, especially in Iceland. While many spitzes are known for having a fox-like face, the Keeshond is most famous for the look. In the past, they were guard dogs and companions often working on Dutch vessels alongside sailors. The biggest difference between the Chow Chow and other spitzes is the head shape. Other spitz dogs have a sharper snout with longer, erect ears. The only commonality is the dense double coat. Chow Chows are as friendly as any other dog breed. With a muscular frame and an impressive stature, these heavy-boned spitz dogs represent dignity, courage and undying loyalty. Akita Inus are reliable and dependable companions. They get along great with family and familiar people, but are always alert and wary of others. Originally bred in Japan as a small hunting dog, Shibas have quickly become companions in households all over the world. Most Shibas are very independent, strong-willed and also have a bit of a stubbornness to them. Although they have bold personalities, they can also be highly affectionate in the home. Just call them the comedians of the spitz-type dog breeds. Loyal and sweet-natured, the Japanese Spitz is up for anything. All they want is to spend quality time with their owners. In terms of physical appearance, they look very similar to many other spitz dogs. They make incredible kid-friendly dogs, but at the same time, are decent watchdogs due to their alertness. Given their jobs as guardian dogs, you can expect them to be alert and vigilant. They may not be as big as other dogs, but they have a dominant personality. They require consistent and firm training , but also plenty of socialization. Off the field, they can be affectionate companions. But despite their fun-loving nature, the Schipperke was actually bred as a working dog. In fact, this Spitz breed was actually developed for ratting and sometimes as watchdogs. They have a strong neck, but also a powerful set of jaws. Combine these traits with their stealthy cat-like hunting style, and you have one of the best rat hunters ever seen. And yes, their iconic solid black coats also help them in stealth mode. These spitz dogs have the energy to keep up with active children. Korean Jindos embrace all the traits of a typical spitz dog. In fact, Jindos usually pick one member of the family to treat as their alpha. That said, these dogs tend to do well with one owner. In the past they were fierce and skilled hunters. These dogs tend to be very territorial. In addition, they can be overly protective of their pack at times. A Jindo will be suspicious of other dogs and humans. These eerily-similar spitz dogs have a lot of similar traits that extend far beyond their physical looks. For example, both dogs are playful, energetic and love to romp around with a cheerful vibe. At one point, the Indian Spitz was by far the most popular breed in India. In fact, they reached peak in popularity during the late 80s. However, with the import of a variety of foreign breeds, their population started to dwindle over the decades. What makes the Indian Spitz unique is their versatility and ability to adapt to many environments. This was what, in fact, breeders wanted from the breed when developing the Indian Spitz. For this reason, the Indian Spitz is able to live in the harsh climate presented in India. So which spitz dog is your favorite? Did we miss a breed that deserves to be on this list? Let us know in the comments section below. Posts you may like:. Erica Puisis writes about home products for The Spruce and specializes in interior design and plant care. What is a Spitz Dog? Breeds classified as spitz dogs have similar features—particularly long, fluffy fur along with pointed ears and noses—and typically hail from regions with harsh winters. Their coats are insulating to keep them warm in cold conditions, and many are white. Some spitz dogs have tails that hang down, but most are curved up to rest over the dog's back. This description sometimes gets blurred between certain breeds, making the exact number of spitz breeds impossible to nail down. However, according to breeds registered with the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club, and the international organization FCI , there are about 50 to 70 spitz dog breeds. Including large and small breeds, some of these dogs are bred for hard work and others are bred for hardly working—instead they prefer to snuggle up as a companion dog. Tip Spitzes are double-coated dogs, and they shed profusely. Some drop their undercoat once or twice a year, and they will still drop hairs in between these shedding periods throughout the year. The best way to manage the dust bunnies around the house is regularly using a deshedding tool or ordering a deshedding service from a groomer. Breed Characteristics Features that unite this dog type include a wolf-like or foxy appearance with pointy ears, curled tails, almond-shaped eyes, and thick coats. With their double coats and curled tails, many are bred to be able to handle cold weather conditions and often originated in regions that experience harsh winters. A curled tail helps to protect them from cold weather. The coiled tail usually rests on their lower back or backside, helping to keep the heat in and making them less likely to catch a chill while outside or away from home for long periods of time. Here are 40 spitz dog breeds that range from recognizable to very rare. They are native to Holland and were kept as guard dogs and companions on the barges that sailed through the waterways. The Keeshond also sports a thick frill of fur that covers the shoulders and chest. You can find their thick coats in varying shades of gray, black, cream, or a combination. Its wolf-like appearance runs strong, and seeing this working dog running through the frozen wilderness of its home makes you do a double-take—was that a wolf? The Siberian husky was bred for companionship and work, making them a great family dog for those who are up to their intense exercise requirements. Breed Overview Height: 20 to 24 inches Weight: 35 to 60 pounds Coat and Color: Eye color is typically blue or brown or one of each ; double-layered coat can be black, gray, red, brown, tan, or white. These happy, playful dogs are on the smaller end, topping out at 18 inches tall. Their ancestors traveled to Iceland with Norse settlers. Bred for herding sheep and ponies, these dogs were the forefathers of the modern Iceland sheepdog we know now. Breed Overview Height: 16 to 18 inches Weight: 25 to 30 pounds Coat and Colors: Waterproof double thick coat, which can be short or long, and in a variety of colors: fawn, cream, chocolate, black, and gray; all variations have white markings and sometimes have a black mask Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years 04 of 40 Pomeranian ShutterRunner. The Pomeranian is a toy dog breed that is no larger than 7 pounds. Though these tiny fluff balls lack wolf-like sizing, they still sport the famous pointed ears, long snout, and curled tail. They may be small, but they have big personalities. They are playful, bold, and intelligent, making great family dogs and watchdogs. Breed Overview Height: 6 to 7 inches Weight: 3 to 7 pounds Coat and Color: Thick coat with an abundant frill of fur that covers the shoulders and chest; colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, gray-shaded, tan, orange, brown Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years Continue to 5 of 40 below. These gorgeous white dogs are pack-oriented and form close bonds with their people. They are kind, hard-working, social, and loyal. Famous for their permanent smile, these pups have a friendly personality to match. They are loyal, bold, and confident. However, they are independent and strong-willed and can form very close bonds with their people. The shiba inu boasts a fox-like appearance —red color and all. They also come in black and tan-colored coats. They were kept as companions, guards, hunters, and haulers. These distinct dogs are known for their blue-black-colored tongue, wrinkled face, and neck ruff. Though they are serious-mannered and aloof with strangers, chows can form extremely loyal bonds with the humans they love. These dogs made it to America in the s and quickly became loved for their smarts, good looks, and eager-to-please attitude. They make wonderful, loving companions for anyone searching for an adventure buddy. Breed Overview Group: Non-Sporting AKC Height: 15 to 19 inches for standard; 12 to 15 inches for miniature; 9 to 12 inches for toy Weight: 25 to 35 pounds for standard; 10 to 20 pounds for miniature; 6 to 10 pounds for toy Coat and Color: Black nose, lips, and eye-rims with thick ruff around the neck and shoulders; the thick, white coat may also be seen in cream or "biscuit" Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years Continue to 9 of 40 below. Despite their large size, these dogs are big softies and love to play an active part in the family unit. They make gentle, affectionate companions and generally do not make good watchdogs because of how friendly they are. Their dynamic way of life in Alaska means they need plenty of exercise. Anyone looking to add a lovable Malamute to the family will need to give them the exercise and loving attention these pups require to thrive. They were used on farms as herders, guards, and all-around farmhands. Today, the Buhund is still used for active farm work in Norway. They are confident, smart, and very loving, making this spitz dog breed a wonderful working companion. These dogs were highly valued and loved, and some are even found in the tombs of their owners, alongside their sword and shield. The elkhound is mentioned in Norse history and mythology. Like the Norwegian buhund, the elkhound was used around the farm for herding and guarding. And, as their name suggests, the elkhound was also used for hunting elk. These brave, loyal, kind-hearted dogs make delightfully devoted companions to the adventurous type. Bred to hunt "lunde" or puffins among rocky cliffs, these dogs have six working toes on each paw instead of dewclaws. Their necks are very flexible and can bend backward so far that their heads touch their spines. They have the ability to fold their pointed, upright ears closed, forward, or backward. And their front legs are so flexible that they can extend them completely to their sides. Breed Overview Height: 12 to 15 inches Weight: 20 to 30 pounds Coat and Color: Double coat with a harsh, short outer and a soft and dense undercoat; males have a thicker ruff around the neck; coat may be black, white, sable, gray, or red; black hair tips that darken with age and can also have white, white with red, or dark markings Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years Continue to 13 of 40 below. Japanese Spitz may live 3 years more than Labrador Retriever. Japanese Spitz may have less litter size than Labrador Retriever. History Japanese Spitz Sale Spitz dogs include quite a few dog breeds and these dogs all have similar characteristics — pointed, erect ears, slanted type eyes with thick fur. The Japanese Spitz was developed by Japanese breeders at the time of the s, and bringing in quite a number of dog breeds to do so. The breeders started with the white German Spitz dogs but later other white Spitz breeds were imported and crossed into this developing breed. The dog became recognized by other kennel clubs of the world. Dorset Eskimos are the people who settled down first in Newfoundland. Newfoundland was discovered in by the Bristol traders from England. The people in the Newfoundland used Lab to help them during fishing. They were recognized as a kennel club breed in England. The Lab has its special talents in fishing, it nicely holds the fish in its mouth and swims well to bring it to the fisherman who was its master. They are also used to hunt game birds and waterfowl. The dog stands at 25 — 38cm, both male and female and weighs anything between 5 to 10kg. The double coat of the dog is thick and white and the puppies look like large snowball. Temperament: The pure-bred Japanese Spitz, just like other Spitz dogs are smart, inquisitive dogs who show loyalty to their owners, getting on well with children in the home and making a good family pet. They can be quite stubborn, so training and socialization becomes important if you want him to be obedient. Training is easy as he is an intelligent, bright little dog. He can tolerate cold weather quite well but as a companion dog, he prefers being indoors with his human family. Even though they are small dogs, they are protective and make good watchdogs. They were bred to be companion dogs and they take this role seriously, being loyal, entertaining, fun, friendly and loving with their human family. It is why they are becoming such a popular breed as they have an amicable nature, getting on well with other pets as well as children. Labrador Retriever Sale Lab is a nice companion and also it helps in doing several works if it is trained. Lab is the America's most popular breed. They help the hunters, works with police and also serves physically challenged people. They are very friendly and it helps people so much by doing many works. They have very good sensitivity and are so affectionate with family members. They have very high energy level in their young stage. The Lab is a muscular and athletic dog. They are sweet natured and well deserved. Lab needs physical and mental activities regularly as they are very intelligent and energetic. The pure bred Labs have black, chocolate and yellow colours. They are very interested in hunting and roaming. The young Lab should be given training to swim as a child, as they likes it very much. They takes more time to mature hence remaining as teenager for a long time when compared with other breeds. Characteristics Japanese Spitz Sale Your Japanese Spitz is going to make you a superb companion and you want to ensure that you are well prepared for him when he arrives. He is feisty, charming, social, bright, alert, active, loyal and loving and you want to be sure that he has everything laid on as a 4-legged family member. He isn't a high maintenance dog, he isn't demanding and if you love and care for him, you'll find that he fills a vacancy in your life that you'll never want to be without again. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Japanese Spitz Overview The Japanese Spitz was bred to be a small companion dog that is cute, loyal, friendly, and smart. Although they are a relatively new breed, Japanese Spitz dogs are becoming increasingly popular due to their pleasant temperament, their ability to get along with other dogs and children, and their fairly low grooming needs, among other traits. They also tend to be healthy dogs with a longer-than-average life expectancy. Dogs of this breed adapt well to apartment living and have low-to-moderate exercise needs. At least one walk a day should keep them happy and prevent boredom, along with the destructive tendencies that are seen in dogs of almost any breed when they are cooped up too long without physical and mental exercise. Japanese Spitz dogs respond well to training and learn quickly. Japanese Spitz Highlights Japanese Spitz dogs have fairly low grooming needs, despite the appearance of their beautiful, white coats. Two good brushings a week should do the trick. Despite being similar in appearance to the American Eskimo Dog, Pomeranian, and Samoyed breeds, the Japanese Spitz breed has its own history and is recognized as a separate breed by many kennel clubs around the world. Japanese Spitz dogs have a bark that is louder than what you might expect from their size, and they are known to be fearless, especially when protecting their families. Although they make good apartment dogs, Japanese Spitz dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods of time, or they may get anxious. These dogs are very smart and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Japanese Spitz dogs are family-friendly. They are known to be playful and gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other dogs in the household. The first dogs of the breed were descended from several white German Spitz dogs that were brought to Japan from China. Over the next few years, many other white Spitz breeds were imported from all over the world, and they were crossbred to produce more desirable traits in the emerging Japanese Spitz breed. In the s, Japanese Spitz dogs were exported to Sweden, then England, and then around the world. Eventually, national kennel clubs all over the world recognized the Japanese Spitz as its own breed, though many of these kennel clubs still vary in their breed standards, especially when it comes to what size these dogs should be. The American Kennel Club is an exception, as it does not recognize the Japanese Spitz as a separate breed, mostly because of the strong resemblance to the American Eskimo Dog. The breed still continues to grow in popularity around the world. Japanese Spitz Size Many kennel clubs disagree as to exactly what size Japanese Spitz dogs should be, but they range in between 10 and 16 inches in height at the shoulders. Females tend to be smaller than males on average. The usual weight of dogs in this breed is 11 to 20 pounds. Though there is disagreement about the proper size of the Japanese Spitz, they are usually larger than Pomeranians, which share many common characteristics. Japanese Spitz Personality Japanese Spitz dogs are prized for their wonderful temperaments. They are very family-friendly and have a playful spirit. Their energy needs are fairly average. One good walk a day should suit a Japanese Spitz just fine, and they might also appreciate a chance to run off leash. Because they are good with other dogs, a trip to the dog park will let them run freely and burn off any excess energy. That said, every dog should have socialization training, regardless of breed, before interacting with other animals. Japanese Spitz dogs are known for their courage and protective nature. They will bark, surprisingly loudly, at strangers who enter their territory, though they will calm down if humans they trust reassure them. They should be introduced to visitors comfortably. Japanese Spitz dogs soak up training well, and they are quite intelligent. Japanese Spitz Health The Japanese Spitz dog breed is known to be fairly healthy with few of the genetic conditions that affect other purebreds. They may, however, be prone to luxating patellas—a condition where the kneecaps become dislocated. They may also have runny eyes from time to time, and their skin may become dry if they are bathed too frequently, which is why it is important to only bathe a Japanese Spitz when it is necessary. Owners should watch out for these conditions and maintain regular vet visits to catch and address any health concerns. Japanese Spitz Care Japanese Spitz dogs tend to be low-maintenance and require fairly basic care. Their teeth should be brushed regularly as recommended by a veterinarian. Their ears and paw pads should be checked for signs of infection, parasites, or debris and kept clean. Keep up with regular vet visits to maintain good health for your Japanese Spitz. Japanese Spitz Feeding A Japanese Spitz dog diet should be formulated for a small-to-mid-sized breed with average energy and exercise needs. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your individual Japanese Spitz and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Even though they look like they have high grooming needs, they do not. Their coats have a texture that usually repels most dirt and debris. That said, their coats are thick, and they must be brushed to prevent knots and matting. Japanese Spitz dogs should be brushed at least twice a week with a brush that reaches to the undercoat. This will dislodge some of the dead hair and reduce the need to clean up after shedding, as well. Their coats tend to be dry compared to other breeds, which is why they should only be bathed as needed. Frequent bathing can remove some of the natural oil and moisture from the hair, which can cause itchiness. Overall, the grooming needs of the Japanese Spitz are quite low compared to many other breeds. Their small size also means that they are unlikely to accidentally knock kids over or play too rough. A Japanese Spitz will make a loving, protective playmate for most children. That said, it is still important to supervise play and to instruct youngsters on how to properly handle and treat pets. Any dog can nip when they are afraid or uncomfortable. Japanese Spitz dogs also tend to do well with other pets in the house. They are not naturally aggressive. However, it is still important to keep up with socialization training with any dog to make sure that they remain comfortable in the presence of new pets and animals that they might interact with. Japanese Spitz Rescue Groups If you are interested in adopting a Japanese Spitz dog, you may have some trouble finding a rescue that specifically caters to this breed. However, you can try following Rescue Me! Spitz Rescue on Facebook, which is a group that regularly posts links to adoptable Spitz dogs. You can also try our adoption page that lets you search for adoptable dogs by breed and zip code. More Info For You. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Dog type A German Spitz A spitz the name derives from the German word spitz, meaning "pointed", in reference to the pointed muzzle is a type of domestic dog consisting of 68 breeds, characterized by long, thick and often white fur, and by pointed ears and muzzles. The tail often curls over the dog's back or droops. While all of the breeds resemble primitive dogs, smaller breeds resemble foxes , while larger breeds resemble jackals , coyotes , wolves , and even dingoes. The exact origins of spitz dogs remain unknown, though most of the spitzes seen today originate from the Arctic region or from Siberia. They often have an insulating , waterproof undercoat that is denser than the topcoat to trap warmth. Small, upright ears help to reduce the risk of frostbite , square proportions and thick fur that grows on the paws protects the dogs from sharp ice. Many spitz breeds, like the Japanese Akita and Chow Chow , retain wolf-like characteristics like independence, suspiciousness, and aggression towards unfamiliar humans and other dogs, and they require much training and socialization when they are puppies before they become manageable in an urban environment. Some, such as the Karelian Bear Dog , are more difficult to train as companion dogs. Some breeds, such as the Pomeranian , have manes. Several spitz breeds such as huskies are bred for one purpose only. However it is common for many spitz breeds such as the Russian laikas to be general purpose dogs in their native lands, used for hunting, hauling, herding, and guarding. This trend is most evident in the tiny Pomeranian , which was originally a much larger dog closer to the size of a Keeshond before being bred down to make an acceptable court animal. The Keeshond, the Wolfspitz variety of the German Spitz , is an affectionate, loyal, and very energetic pet that was bred as a watchdog for barges hence the name Dutch Barge Dog. Often, these breeds are recognized for their "smiling" mouths.

Find more Pug puppies for sale in closest states: Tennessee , Kentucky , Illinois , Arkansas , Iowa , Mississippi If you have never owned a Pug before, or are interested in reading more information, check out our Pug Dog Breed Information page. Latest Dog Articles Tips novice dog breeder A complete and accurate answer for you, no one can give, because it all depends on many factors, the life of a breeder. By and large it all depends on the purpose for which purchased the dog, who will care for her, where you'll have it, and where and by w Methods of teaching a puppy Establish a connection with a young puppy can by feeding him from his earliest days. The puppy should pnyat you for it - the power supply. She should realize this and get used to you as an owner. The same way you can teach your puppy to respond to his nic When we get a dog, immediately the question arises as to accustom the puppy home "walk" in the toilet. In fact, it is not difficult. As a rule, the need arises after active play, sleep or eat. Surely, you know that pets, on the paws have pads with scent glands. So they scrape the ground and the front and hind legs, thus mark, so to speak, its own territory. Paws they scrape after urination, and also after a bowel movement. Dogs in general are b How to properly care for the puppy Many readers ask the question, when you can take the puppy home? Typically, the pups can already take vtoroi after vaccination, the first at six - the eighth week, the second - after 2 weeks after the first vaccine. At this point, you can already walk the If you like a little dog with a character, you may want to consider the candidacy of the Yorkshire terrier. These dogs are so sure of themselves that are not afraid of dogs, even in spite of the pocket size. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Email: betsneal yahoo. They occasionally have Pug pups available so keep updated on their Facebook page for new information. Kings Creek has been breeding Pugs since .Kings Creek is passionate about quality puppies and is more than happy to offer prospective owners references from prior purchasers and their veterinarians. All pups come with a health check, vaccines, and deworming, as well as a two-year genetic health guarantee. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. Exercise Grooming The pug has origins majorly from China and Netherland. The Modern pugs are imported from China; the earliest breeds have also been known to originate from there. However, the pugs have a history with royal families in the Netherlands and England. The Modern style pugs were brought in to Britain in from China. The pugs were tended by the ruling families in China. The imperial court kept pugs because they were treasured by the Emperors who assigned guards to protect them while they the pugs lived in extravagance. Keeping pugs in Europe started at the House of Orange in the Netherlands. The pug became the official pug of the house after it saved the Prince of Orange from Assassins. Although these pugs were said to have been brought from China, the pugs from Europe at that time, as seen in pictures depict longer legs and nose. The pugs became prominent in the United States in the nineteenth century. They easily became family companions and show dogs. They became recognized by the American Kennel Club in .This occurred in , it was the first time a pug would be winning the show since it began. The pug would do anything to please its owners this is what makes them suitable to keep in many homes. Their loyalty is unwavering, they do well with children their calmness and sturdy physique allows them to tolerate children easily. Their Alertness makes them good security dogs but they are not predominantly used for security purposes. Pugs are stubborn, but this does not transform into aggressive manners. The pug thrives indoors. It is usually kept close to families that own it. It is classified by most Kennel Clubs as a toy dog. Despite their adaptation to heat, pugs cannot thrive well outdoors in hot and humid regions Pugs do not require high-intensity exercises; however moderate exercising will be sufficient. A reserved and reasonable amount of space for the dog to move around is ideal. The pugs have a fine coat that is sufficient to protect them from heat and cold. Maintaining a pug has low requirements. However, wrinkles and eyes have to be cleaned daily. Our Pugs puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Pug Puppies for Sale.

Here is German shepherd puppy for sale near me that, can be helpful to found a new puppy. First things, first research the breed you want. I would recommend getting an all breed dog book at your library or local book store to help you in choosing a puppy. Get a book that gives details about the breeds temperament, energy level, adaptability, size, trainability, etc. Many people will pick up a dog magazine to check out the dogs for sale advertisements in the back. For example, some large dogs do better in apartments than certain small dogs. Some dogs are very independent and are more difficult to train. There are grooming requirements to consider. German shepherd puppy for sale near me provides an adoption opportunity- We would like all potential adopters of this noble breed, the German shepherd, to do research on these good dogs. German shepherd dogs are not for everyone. If you are not willing to vacuum your house several times a week, a German shepherd is not for you. They shed and they shed a lot! That being said, we cannot think of a more loyal, smart and loving breed of dog. They return so much more than we, as their human counterparts, could ever give them. Show them love and respect and they love and respect you twice as much. If you are fully aware of the expenses of responsible animal ownership and are prepared to give an animal a good home then you can adopt German shepherd puppy from German shepherd puppy for sale near me. Features that you can found in German shepherd- Our main goal is to provide your family with not only a solid obedience and family protection dog, but also a guard dog that will be loyal, willing to please and a fun dog that will become not just a protector, but a member of the family and a best friend to you and your children. A Trained dog that can go anywhere you can legally go and an obedient dog that you will want to take with you not just for the protection, but for the pure enjoyment of their company. The all-black and sable varieties are acceptable according to most standards; however, the blue and liver are considered to be serious faults and the all-white is grounds for instant disqualification from showing in conformation at all Breed and specialty shows. German shepherd can be Use as a working dog- German shepherds are a popular selection for use as working dogs. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally thousands of German shepherds have been used by the military. Usually trained for scout duty, they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. The German shepherd is one of the most widely used breeds in a wide variety of scent-work roles. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching, narcotics detection, explosives detection, accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. We have answers. They may try, but the reality is that finding the perfect food for your dog right away is extremely difficult to do. Reputable German Shepherd breeders in Sacramento will always recommend that you contact a veterinarian directly if your pup is showing any signs of food allergies. In fact, it is much more likely that you will come across a smaller, backyard breeder or even a large puppy mill misrepresenting their business online. Puppy mills in particular often fall into the trap of inbreeding which can cause a lot of issues for future owners down the road! The breeders and businesses in our network are never working with the goal of producing the cheapest German Shepherds for sale in Sacramento. Rather, top-rated breeders tend to off a more boutique experience that involves exceptional breeding standards and even puppy transportation to the most convenient airport for both parties. Can I find a German Shepherd for sale in Sacramento near me? Of course. Our network is expansive and contains hundreds of the top rated puppy breeders from all across the country. No matter the color, size or location of the dog you are looking for, we definitely have you covered! How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? The top-rated German Shepherd breeders in the Uptown Network offer nose-to-tail health checks for all of their puppies, which includes a thorough examination of the entire dog and their health history! Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? Most dogs need more than a quick walk around the neighborhood every day to stay happy. For dogs, getting plenty of exercise can improve their daily moods, reduce destructive behavior and wear them out so that quiet time is easier to come by late at night. In order to ensure that our customers avoid all of the trouble that comes with backyard breeders we have employed an expert team to screen each and every application that is received! Because of the strict vetting process that our team has developed for filtering applications the breeders you will see below are some of the best in the country! Your new puppy could be just a few clicks away! What should I expect from my new German Shepherd puppy? You should expect an affectionate, loving puppy that wants to be around their family all of the time. What are some of the most intelligent and easy to train breeds? German Shepherds can be extremely intelligent! They were bred to be working dogs and have the memory to understand tasks and complete them alongside their owners. Finding a breeder you can trust is key to getting a healthy, well-behaved dog. Here are a few tips to help you find the right breeder. Lastly, a good breeder will have a long waiting list and will not stress out the mother dog. This kennel has been in business since and has consistently bred quality puppies. They have even participated in dog shows and have their website. The Velknerhaus GSDs also work on a small scale so they can give extra attention to their litters and parent dogs. This breeder specializes in old-fashioned German Shepherds and is a well-respected breeder. The owners of this small-scale operation have been in business for more than 30 years and have the best temperaments in the area. Dakonic German Shepherds is a working-line dog farm in Anderson, California. Their goal is to produce dogs that are both dependable and trustworthy. Their dogs are great companions, sports partners, and work partners. Regardless of your color preference, Rotterbarental German Shepherds in Sacramento Ca are the best place to purchase a German Shepherd puppy. They specialize in black, red, and traditional tan colors. The dogs are raised in foster homes and have excellent temperaments. They are also great family companions. For a great German Shepherd puppy, choose a breeder with a long history and a good reputation. The breeder is a member of both organizations and screens prospective buyers thoroughly. They ensure that their puppies are healthy, vaccinated, and trained before they are sold to potential owners. They also offer dog training and boarding as well. They can even help you import a German Shepherd if you need assistance. This breeder has exceptional West German bloodline dogs. They breed one or two litters of shepherds each year. They strive to sell only the best German shepherds. They also conduct genetic screening on each pup. And they provide Early Scent Introduction and Early Neurological Stimulation, so your puppy is confident from day one. And the breeder provides a two-year health guarantee. Lastly, be patient. If you love children and are willing to train them, these dogs are great companions for kids. His donations have helped the rescue keep running. Despite a large number of dogs the organization has at the shelter, most of them are too old to be adopted. Some of them have been returned to the shelter several times. However, Foran has never turned down a dog and has a great track record. Share this:.