red german shepherd puppies near me

First and foremost, you want to give your dog or puppy something safe. Otherwise, it can be unhealthy for them or even worse, dangerous. If you follow the tips listed below, it should help you find something perfect for them in the end. As tempting as it may be, never give your dog bones that are cooked. When considering store-bought bones for your dog, you should check with your vet first to make sure they are the right ones after all. If you choose rawhide bones, make sure there are no additives, preservatives, gelatin, or artificial sweeteners. Make sure the bones are all-natural. Feel free to give your dogs raw bones made of chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef. You should always give your dog a bone only after a meal, and your dog should never be given pork or rib bones. Finally, always give your dog a bone that is longer than its muzzle to make extra-sure your dog is safe. These bones are perfect for German shepherds because they are durable, safe, and last a long time. They also come in a variety of flavors that will keep your dog coming back for more. Related Questions 1. Can German Shepherds Chew on Bones? Yes, and the best bones for German shepherd dogs and puppies are either natural or synthetic bone chews. Can Dogs Digest Cooked Bones? Not really. Only give dogs raw bones and not cooked because they are both easier to swallow and easier to digest. Ideally, dogs should not get more than one to two bones per week, and you should always allow a few days in between each feeding just to be extra-safe. If you have any questions or concerns, always feel free to consult with your vet before providing bones to your dog. Why Trust Us? At TrainYourGsd. Related posts:. German Shepherds love to chew on bones but there are some dangers associated with this popular canine pastime. Giving your dog the right bone will lead to many happy hours of chewing. Make sure you know the differences so you can avoid any possible mishaps. The Best Bones For German Shepherd are large uncooked beef or lamb shank bones that are bigger than their mouth so that they are unable to swallow it whole. Because of their softness, they have a tendency to splinter while your dog is chewing on them. This can cause serious injuries to the digestive tract, mouth and throat. This article will answer some common questions people have about bones, some misconceptions and of course a list of our favorite bones for your German Shepherd. We will also tell you what to do if the worst case scenario happens and your precious pup swallows a bone. Is it safe to give your German Shepherd bones? Giving your German Shepherd a bone can be safe if you take the proper precautions. However anytime you give a dog a bone there is a risk involved. Here are the risks of giving your German Shepherd a bone: Blockage Fragments of bone can become stuck in the small intestines resulting in a blockage. Surgery may be required to remove them. They can also pierce the wall of the intestine causing Peritonitis. Parts of the bone can also make there way all the way down the GI tract to the large colon. They can collect there, causing constipation and severe discomfort. The resulting trauma can cause bleeding in the rectal area. The vet may have to use an enema or manipulate the bowel to remove the fragments. Bone stuck in the stomach If a piece of bone is too large, it may be unable to make its way out of the stomach. This can result in abdominal surgery or an endoscopy to remove the bone fragment. This can cause an infection referred to as Peritonitis which can be fatal. Cracked Teeth Dogs can crack their teeth chewing on a hard bone such as a store bought cooked bone. This can lead to costly dental bills from the resulting extraction or even possible root canal needed to fix the tooth. Not to mention the pain it will cause your dog. Mouth and tongue injuries When a piece of the bone breaks off into the dogs mouth, it can be super sharp, cutting the roof of the mouth or piercing the tongue and cheek. Obstruction of the airway A bone that is too small can get lodged or stuck in the dogs esophagus causing them to choke. Pieces or shards of the bone can also get stuck in the trachea making it hard for your dog to breathe. Raw bones can be contaminated While raw bones are by far the safest choice, they can be contaminated with certain dangerous pathogens. When it gets stuck behind the lower canine teeth, it is very tough to get dislodged. Sometimes the only remedy is a trip to the Emergency Vet where your dog might need to be sedated or anesthetized to remove it. What are the benefits of giving my German Shepherd a raw bone? Although this topic is highly debated in the dog world, there are benefits to giving your dog a raw bone. You must decide for yourself if the benefits outweigh the risks. I personally think they do. Here are some of the benefits that your dog will get from a raw bone. Clean Teeth A raw bone is a great substitute for brushing your pooches toothy trains. Chewing on the bone helps stimulate the saliva enzymes and helps get rid of any food trapped in your dogs teeth. It also prevents the build up of tarter and keeps the teeth healthy and clean. This will help to avoid any trips to the vet for extractions or scaling of the teeth. Ten to twenty minutes of chewing after a meal should do the trick. Helps dog avoid bad chewing habits A nice raw bone can be a great way to distract your dog from any bad or unwanted chewing habits. Some dogs have a habit of chewing on clothing, furniture, socks. A bone will keep there attention and hopefully prevent them from any negative chewing habits. They contain calcium phosphate which can be up to four times easier for your dog to digest verses other common calcium supplements. Raw bones are excellent for larger breed dogs such as the German Shepherd. Because of their quick growth, they need the extra calcium for their large skeletal system. The best types of raw bones to give your dog: Frozen raw bones Freezing bones before giving them to your dog is a great way to slow down their chewing and digestion. Large raw bones The size of the bone will depend on the size of the dog but in general you want to give your dog large raw bones that are bigger than their head and a greater length than their muzzle. A German Shepherd for example, will require something large such as a lamb breast or a turkey neck. Meaty raw bones Raw bones with plenty of meat on them are the best for your dog. You want to have a good balance of meat to bone. Excess bone without the meat can cause constipation. If the bone is a little bare, some additional meat on the side will help even things out. Bones to avoid giving your dog: Antlers Avoid any types of antlers. They are too hard for your dog and can wreak havoc on their teeth causing injuries. Bones that are cut up into small pieces This would include knuckle bones and ox-tail bones that have been cut. Cooked bones Cooked bones that you buy from the store are the worst choice. The softness of these bones can lead to splintering which can cause injuries. Rawhide Bones Stay away from these bones as they are a choking risk. The rawhide can get soft after your dog chews on it for awhile. Because of this, your dog can easily tear off big chunks which can be swallowed if unsupervised. Small bones Smaller bones are a choking hazard. Stay away from chicken, pork or rib bones which are common but unfortunately dangerous. They are more prone to splinter causing damage to your dogs mouth. Tips for giving your dog a bone: Avoid bones that have been cut the length of the bone. Bones that have been cute the entire length of the bone are more likely to splinter and have sharp edges. Avoid giving bones with marrow to dogs with Pancreatitis. Instead try giving them an alternative. Avoid giving bones to dogs with previous dental work. Dogs that have had any teeth restored are in danger of braking those teeth. You are better off not giving them a bone. Instead give them a safe alternative. Freeze bones when they are not being used. Keep the bones in the freezer when they are not being used. It will help avoid contamination and help slow down the time it takes for your dog to chew a bone. Give your dog a bone following a meal. Let your dog finish their dinner. Then throw them their favorite bone. It should slow down the aggressiveness of their chewing lessening the chance of them swallowing part of the bone. Never leave your dog unsupervised with any bone. They can chew for too long and the bone can become small enough for your dog to swallow. They can also bite off pieces that can become stuck in their throat or pierce the inside of their mouth. Ten to twenty minutes is a sufficient amount of time for your dog to chew its bone. Throw away bones when they get old or worn down. Once a dog chews on a bone for a long period, it becomes more brittle with more chance of splintering. Throw it out and get a new bone. Bone powder as an alternative: If you are concerned about the repercussions of giving your dog a raw bone, you can grind them down into a powder and sprinkle it on their food. They will get the benefits of the minerals and nutrients without the risks we discussed earlier in the article. The calcium phosphate alone is enough to make the whole process worth it. Keep in mind, your dog will miss the benefits of chewing which can include healthier teeth and less anxiety and stress. Best coarse of action if your German Shepherd swallows a bone: Dogs love to chew and they love to eat. This can often times lead to your dog swallowing part of a bone and sometimes even the whole bone if is too small. You will definitely want to keep a close eye on your pooch when they are chewing on their favorite bone. According to Dr. Most of the time, the bone simply dissolves. He recommends staying away from large beef vertebrae especially from the butcher. Dogs have a tendency to want to swallow it since it is hard to break into smaller bits. It then can become stuck in the lower esophagus in the chest resulting in possible surgery to remove the bone. If he is and you can locate the bone in his mouth, try to safely remove the bone and clear the airway. If you cannot do this safely, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The second step to take, if your dog swallows a bone and seems fine, is to contact your veterinarian and ask them what to do. The size of the bone swallowed will determine the best course of action. On rare occasions your vet may decide that surgery is necessary to remove the bone. Step three is to wait and monitor your dog. If your dog becomes sick after swallowing the bone and starts to vomit, call the veterinarian immediately and try to take them in as soon as possible to get checked. Symptoms to look out for: Abnormal movements Blood in their stool or diarrhea Constipation. After all, bones provide numerous benefits including providing calcium and phosphorus, help to keep teeth and jaws healthy, and are good to relieve boredom, stress, and anxiety. Check out the list below to see the common misconceptions that people have about dogs eating bones. Never feed your dog sharp, small, cooked, pork, or rib bones. Only bones from home are safe, in most cases. In any case, bones should be disposed of after a couple of days as bacteria will form. Not all dogs can chew on bones. Many German Shepherds have poor or weakened teeth. Whether they have tooth decay, exposed enamel, or gum disease, chewing on a bone can cause instant sharp pain for your dog. Rubber or plastic bones are a safe alternative for dogs to chew on. They can be equally as dangerous as splintered bones, so choose wisely. You can see below my recommendations. Now that you know what to avoid, you can find good bones that fit within the healthy parameters from the previous section. Here are the five risks of feeding cooked bones to your German Shepherd: When bones splinter, it acts like glass. Choking is another common risk of eating cooked bones. If your German Shepherd is chewing on a bone, a piece can easily break off and go down his throat. Bones are incredibly dense, which is why they can lead to blockages when consumed. If your German Shepherd manages to swallow a piece of a cooked bone, it can get lodged in their digestive tract and cause a blockage. Sometimes, the only way to remove it is to pay for surgery. Some German Shepherds are sensitive to bone marrow, which becomes easily exposed from chewing on cooked bones. If your GSD has a sensitive stomach , then ingesting too much bone marrow could cause sickness and diarrhea as it is too rich and high in fat. Loose teeth can become shattered or ripped from their roots. Raw Bones vs. Chew Toys for German Shepherds Large raw bones are typically a safe choice for your German Shepherd to chew on, as are most chew store-bought bones. If you pulled them from a large animal, most big bones are the perfect size for German Shepherds. Raw bones should be big enough to prevent your dog from swallowing them whole. On the contrary, your GSD will get a nutritional boost from the raw bone from the calcium and phosphorus. Cons of Raw Bones You have to be very precise when choosing a raw bone for your dog. Bone marrow can cause all sorts of stomach issues if your dog is prone to tummy upsets. Supervision is necessary. Pros of Chew Toys Bones Convenient and easy to find. They allow you to continue to provide bones for your dog without requiring you to buy raw meat. Plastic bones last much longer than raw bones. If you choose a heavy-duty plastic bone, such as the Nylabone mentioned above, then your German Shepherd will be able to enjoy it for quite some time, and they also come in a range of flavors. Your dog will have to enjoy the task of chewing without being able to gnaw away at delicious raw meaty bits. Choose a flavored chew bone for your dog. The Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is a hot choice for thousands of pet owners. The wishbone shape is ideal for dogs to grip and hold. It lasts seemingly forever, and the flavor stays around, unlike some chew toys. You can choose from chicken, bacon, or peanut. They can cause cracked teeth and other dental injuries. When the rawhide becomes soft it becomes easy for your GSD to break chunks off and swallow them. Puppies have delicate teeth and jaws, so they need softer bones that are easier to chew and digest. Here are some good options for German Shepherd puppies: Raw chicken necks or wings: These bones are small, soft, and easy to chew. They also contain cartilage and connective tissue, which can be beneficial for joint health. Raw beef marrow bones: These bones are larger and harder than chicken necks or ribs, but they contain a lot of nutrients and can be a good option for teething puppies. Additionally, any bone should be given under supervision and taken away once it becomes small enough to swallow whole. In this case, you will need to monitor them and keep an eye on their stools. However, if your GSD has accidentally eaten a cooked bone such as a rib or small chicken bone and they swallow a splinter, then you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Signs of intestinal obstruction include vomiting, lethargy, a painful tummy, and having no desire to eat. The sooner you can have your vet take a look, the sooner your dog will be safe. Note: Always watch puppies when they chew bones. They might literally bite off more than they can chew, so you need to be there to remove anything sharp or too small for their mouth. Final Thoughts German Shepherds love meaty bones just as much as any dog. As long as you follow the safety suggestions found in this post you can safely let them enjoy a good chew. Choose large raw bones bigger than their muzzle. Raw beef or lamb shank bones are a good choice. Supervise your dog at all times. There are many good alternative chew bones. Related Posts You May Like:. Benebone Puppy Chew Toy Check it out! Our Buying Guide Hey there, so you are looking for the best chew toy for your German Shepherd, and you want to make sure you pick the right one? You are in the right section. Here, we talk about different chew toys for GSDs and include some things you need to consider before clicking the buy button. Material Type Rubber: This is one of the safest and non-toxic materials used to produce chew toys for dogs. While rubber might seem indestructible, some dogs have been able to chew through them. A high-quality rubber chew toy would last longer than cheaply made ones. Rope: Rope or Jute is another material type you should expect to see. This kind might not last up to a month if you have an aggressive chewer at home. However, they are perfect for playing tug of war with your dog. Nylon chew toys usually have flavors that dogs like; most GSDs would find nylon chew toys irresistible. You should consider buying a very durable product that your dog would have a hard time destroying. It is built specifically for large breeds and aggressive chewers. Not all rubbers are safe! Being a die-hard dog lover, I have seen some breeds ignore some products due to their weight. A money-back guarantee policy ensures that you get a better replacement or a refund in case of a mishap. Dogs love to munch on almost everything, but not all might be safe. If you have a German Shepherd obsessed with chewing, you should get a chew toy for them. At what age do German shepherds stop chewing? Research has shown that German Shepherds stop chewing at months; however, some GSDs might retain the chewing habit after the time. How do you stop destructive chewing? Destructive chewing can be a big problem. One way to stop it is to give your dog plenty of exercises that will fend off boredom. How to Make the Right Selection The first step to making the proper selection is to check out the buying guide section above; we covered most of the primary things to help you make the appropriate choice. Feel free to read through again before deciding on which product would be best for your German Shepherd. You may also enjoy reading:. Buy on Amazon Rawhide bones are another popular type of chew bone, and they offer several advantages over natural bone. First and foremost, rawhide is a lot cheaper. When we compare that to our winner a natural bone product , we see that it only offers 8 bones for about the same price. Thus, this product offers good value. Rawhide also tends to last a lot longer than natural bone, as it cannot be so easily crunched and swallowed. That makes it great for those times when you have to be gone for a while. These bones are not exactly edible, but they can be digested with little trouble. We like the fact that this product contains no additives or chemicals. If the advertising is to be believed, this is just pure rawhide and nothing else. Without any kind of binding agent, these rolls tend to come unrolled pretty easily. The dog can still chew them at that point, but there is a much bigger chance of choking when all those thin shreds come into the picture. Alternate Product 2: Devil Dog Antler Chew Pros Harder and stronger than ordinary bones No mess or odor Sourced from wild elk with no cruelty Perfect for aggressive chewers Rough texture helps to naturally clean teeth Cons Kind of expensive A lot of natural variation Buy on Amazon At this point, you might be wondering why we included an antler on our list. You may not know this, but antlers are made of bone. Antlers and other horns are a little different from structural bones, being harder and stronger than most. If you are dealing with a dedicated chewer who shreds normal toys in a matter of hours, this might be just the solution you need. FAQ Dog bones are not a particularly complex subject, so you should now have a good grasp of the things you need to know. Selecting the right bone is just a matter of balancing all the relevant factors and choosing the product that suits your needs. The answer to this question will depend on what you mean. If you mean a literal bone from an animal, then the answer is yes. In the wild, it is perfectly natural for canines to eat bones. It represents an important source of calcium, and the marrow provides all kinds of nourishment. None of that applies to bones made of synthetic materials like nylon or plastic. Treat bones, of course, are meant to be eaten. If you can afford to get your dog natural chew bones, that is probably the best option. While there is nothing wrong with the other choices on our list, natural bones are the safest bet. Dogs have been gnawing on these things since the dawn of time, so why try to change them now? At the same time, you should realize that natural chew bones are a lot more expensive. To be honest, all chew toys present at least some hazard of choking. If a dog swallows large pieces of rawhide, it can create an intestinal blockage that might require surgery to remove. We will discuss their pros and cons and give general recommendations about each type. Natural Bones This is the ideal choice, but a lot of people cannot afford them. On the upside, not all of them are so expensive. We might look at our best value product as an example of a low-cost natural bone. The main benefit of natural bones is the fact that they provide extra nutrition to your dog. Between the calcium in the bone itself and the nutrients in the marrow, this is almost as nourishing as a meal. Of course, there are some issues here. Natural bones are usually roasted before being put on sale, and this can make them very brittle. In some cases, this can lead to splintering as the dog chews, and that can be dangerous. Thus, we would recommend that you avoid natural bone products that seem excessively dry and brittle. Nylon Bones Nylon bones offer some definite advantages, but they do have one big problem: They are non-digestible. Because of that fact, nylon bones will always present the danger of intestinal blockage. These bones also tend to be harder than most, meaning that they are best suited for large dogs. On the upside, nylon bones will usually last a lot longer than most others. When they do break, they tend to break into large pieces. Still, we would recommend that you not allow your dog to use nylon bones unless you are there to supervise. These are generally molded from a mix of substances that dogs like. Meat by-products make up the majority of their bulk, but vegetable material is also usually present. Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not strict carnivores but are more like omnivores who prefer meat. Like all treats, these are not designed to serve as a primary food source. They are a lot richer in fat than most kibble, so they could cause your dog to gain weight after too many of them. Rawhide Bones These are probably the cheapest and most common chew bones, and there are reasons that many people prefer them. Rawhide is a relatively safe material, as dogs can eat a fairly large amount of it without issue. We have already talked about the dangers of this material, as it can cause various problems if your dog eats too big of a piece. Statistically, the chance of your dog being harmed by rawhide is pretty small. That being said, we would recommend that you stick with the small chews, just to stay on the safe side. Dog bones are generally not complicated, but we have tried our best to educate you as to the finer points of the subject. Even if you use natural bone, this risk is still present. If we have succeeded in that goal, we hope that you will leave a comment below. Recommended reading. Luckily, the options and quality of bones available are many that you can choose your pick from. What to choose in bones? Well, reconsider your options. The bone splinters that chip away when the dog tries to chew on it, can cause choking, the sharpness of broken bones can cause lacerations in their mouths and all the other innards. Why put your only loyal companion you may have in this entire world through so much misery in the name of feeding him? If not, then what? Doggy biscuits? May be. And also treats that looks like bones, tastes like bones, are twice as nutritious and thrice as safe! Cooked Bones for German Shepherds Cooked bones are simple to shatter after swallowing, and dogs have even perished from gnawing on them. Since they are simpler to ingest and digest, they give dogs raw bones. Cooked bone should never be fed since they can shatter and cause harm. Watchdogs when they consume raw bones. When giving raw bones to dog friends, keep them apart. Avoid using big, heavy bones that could break teeth or become hooked in jaws. The bones should be larger than their muzzle to prevent them from swallowing it whole. Do not feed cooked bones to your German Shepherds. Remove small pieces of raw, broken bones. Never feed cooked bones, as they are dangerous for your dog. Supervise dogs while they eat raw bones. Separate dog friends when offering raw bones. Stay away from large weight-bearing bones that can break teeth, get caught in jaws, etc. Antlers have become more popular, but more and more dental injuries are reported. Pork and rib bones are the bones most likely to splinter. Raw bones are much healthier and safer for them to swallow. You should give one to two raw bones weekly and wait a few days between the next serving. Rib Bones for German Shepherds Pork and rib bones are the bones most likely to splinter. You can feed your German Shepherds two types of bones: edible and recreational. Avoid chicken, pork, or rib bones, which are common but dangerous. The 10 best dog bones available on the internet. Choose your pick. Shaped like an antler, made of real bison, this delicious, for dogs treat comes in varying sizes, making this dog bone treat suitable for dogs of different sizes, built and age. Nylabone offers sizes from small to medium and large. Small is for dogs weighing up to 20lbs, medium for up to 35lbs and large for larger dogs weighing a whopping 50lbs! The product act in compliance with the nutritional values set by The Associationof American Feed Control Officials and has no artificial and hard to pronounce chemicals, flavors, preservatives and colors. With its high durability, Nylabone lasts long, making your dog feel satiated for long reducing the risk of your furniture and favorite hugging pillows to be their chew toys instead. Cons For something that is famous, for obvious reasons, Nylabone Healthy Edible Wild Dog treats faces a common nemesis as is with everything famous and in demand. That being counterfeit products, copying from the name to physical feature and even taste. The quality and health benefits that are associated with the real thing is just not the same. So, Be Wary! As the name suggests, these are made of only one ingredient which is good-ol cow bones. It is made in the USA and the bones come from cows that have been fed on grass and all things organic. There is a bit of meat on the bones which has been roasted so the meat on cooked bones does not go bad. Because of its durability, it is especially suitable for aggressive chewers and the dogs can go chewing it for days, taking breaks only to get back to it without losing interest. Though, due to its roasting, the bones could have got brittle, causing bigger dogs like German Shepherds to chew these down to smithereens. It has no funny and processed ingredients making K9 Connoisseur a little more costly options in dog bones. But then, what is a little extra money when it comes to feeding your dog the best organic options in dog treats. Due to the superior quality and amount of protein in it, K9 Connoisseur is an excellent food source for your canine that is training too hard to be worthy of your company, keeping it strong, healthy, muscular and agile. Pros With the absence of anything rawhide it is the untanned skin of an animal which is prone to get infected if not exposed to the sun for a specific time period , it is healthy for your dog and so safe. The size and the close-pack packaging it comes in, makes it pantry friendly and easy to store. Cons Sometimes because of over exposure to heat, faulty packaging or shipping issues, splinters may come off the bone creating choking hazard for your furry companion. Antlers have a reputation of being the most wholesome of dog foods out there, owing to its resistance to splintering. In comparison with rawhides, antler dog chews are not dangerous, giving you the peace of mind to just throw your dog the raw bone, and be done with it sometimes you just need that kind of assurance. .Like other things, namely Bully sticks and pigs, antler dog chews are not stinky and are very clean, providing yet one more nutritional pleasantry. Pros The tough exterior of the Elk Antler gives the dog a good gnawing, keeping the teeth safe with the absence of funny chemicals and additives. Enriched with calcium and minerals and no fat and additional calories, Elk Antlers makes it a healthy option against many bone-based food options in the market. Cons While Elk Antler are safer for your dogs, be mindful about ordering the whole antler instead of the ones that come in split form. Though your dog will enjoy the exposed marrow that fills the length of the split, it does make it dangerous for your dog because of easy splintering. A visit to the ER and sometimes surgery just adds to the cost. The price tag that grace the Elk Antlers is off putting which may sway many potential buyers in other product directions. When it comes to producing dog treats, Milk Bone ranks amongst one of the most trusted dog food brands. More than any other dog food, especially a bone to be chewed, Original Dog Treat biscuits are treats that you give your dog for behaving itself. Due to its crunchy texture, younger dogs enjoy these more than the older ones. Milk Bone has gone over the board in fortifying their nutritional value by packing 12 vitamins and minerals in theses treats. Milk Bone packs over a hundred treats in a 10 pound package which gives it a crazy, wholesale-like charm of wanting to buy it in bulks. Pros Vet approved, these Milk Bone Original Dog Treat Biscuits, keep the tartar build up at bay and nourishing your adorable woofer with 12 additional vitamins. The nourishment level saves the pickiest eaters from becoming malnourished. Vitamin B in the formulae helps energize the metabolism and help nourish the nervous system. Changing the packaging and zip locking the treats in something safer have still given birth to these bugs which is frustrating for obvious reasons. For best taste, quality and conserving, these bones are roasted with a little meat still clinging to the bones. In case your pooch has any gluten allergies, or not, feel free to give them these chews as they also come free of wheat, soy and corn. Not a bad deal at all, right? Pros In general, these bones are considered safe. These have been known to help dental health, satisfy chewing urges making your furniture safe and whole. Cons Some dog parents are not happy with the origin of these bones. Some of the dog parents have complained that there is dry meat on the bone which, if your dog is a particularly aggressive chewer, it can demolish it pretty quick. Some dogs have swallowed the shattered bones too, whereas as these treats are supposed to withstand aggressive chewers. This particularly risk the canines breaking, indigestion and sometimes death in extreme cases. Of all the dog chews on the list so far, this one is an usual but delicious one. These chew sticks are non-edible, made of nylon and taste like peanut butter. The more your dog chews on it, the more peanut butter flavor and aroma it gives off. If your dog has destructive qualities because he is bored or just because he is naturally rude, keep these toothsomes around in case you feel like your pooch is going rogue. Non-edible treats like these acts as particularly bad-ass toothbrushes for your dogs, i mean good enough to get plaque and other built up off of their teeth. After all, the flavor and aroma increases for some reason the more a dog chews on it. The end, certainly justify the means. Pros It has no rawhide, is affordable and is made of real peanut butter. The dogs clearly find these delicious even the crankiest lot. Cons For some dogs the relatively synthetic formula makes it very hard for some dogs to chew on it. This also make it very unappetizing for many dogs to even go near the Pet Qwerts Bark Bones, says some of the buyers. Unless you are very sure that your dogs would want these, do not make a bad choice in choosing these for your picky pets. Except for the change in flavor profile, there is no other prominent difference. These are nontoxic and hypoallergenic make it chew safe for your dog. Pros The curvy shape of the bone makes it easier for the dog to pick and hold it in their mouth even if they are running. These are unbreakable, even with excessive chewing and dropping hard. Imagine the dog swallowing the sharp bits incase they manage to dislodge even a scrape! Awww cute! Your cute little pooch would look even more cute holding it in its paws, chewing angrily on it like a hungry cutesy baby, fighting over his own thumb, sucking aggressively, expecting it to magically sprout a milk fountain! Benebone, the brand proudly acknowledges its proud USA sourcing of top quality ingredients for superior taste and smell, that is fused into the toy. Be careful to replace the Dog Chew Toy when you deem fit or according to the instructions on the package. Pros A lot of dog parents are happy with Benebone and have reported their pets being very happy chewing on them. The easy grip is another advantage. The product is worth the price. Cons For some dogs, these toys have caused them broken teeth. In some cases the damage has been permanent as the dogs have lost teeth permanently, causing severe distress to the dogs as well as its parents. This one is yet another no brainer. As to, why we chose it to be in the top nine of the food chain? Resultantly, the Mammoth Femur Bone Dog Treat tastes better and is choke-full of nutrition, in a good way of course. Because of the health complications associated with packing, storing and shipping raw meat, the femur is roasted slowly which cooks the meat and the bone just enough to give the treat shelf longevity as well as making it safe for your dog to joyfully chew on and be merry. The way it is cooked, ensures any kind of bacterial contamination to be killed, making the Mammoth Femur Bone to be healthy and safe for consumption. The teeth stay healthy and clean and the gums and jaws sufficiently stimulated. With the size of the treat, it is ideal for medium to larger dog kind. Pros These bones are easy to digest , delicious and conveniently packed. Cons Despite being very expensive a trait that a customer naturally associates with good quality and value , the Mammoth Femur Bone has not lasted long. Puppies stat teething between 6 weeks and 6 months of their life. So keeping chewing stick with your baby dog love you more than you can imagine. This makes their gums itch which is why they would want to sink their rapidly falling teeth into anything they could find. This includes your feet, hands, clothes, rugs and everything else endangering your pup with infections and the like. N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats are a better choice thank your ankles when you want to keep them occupied with something safe. Its all natural and preservative free formulae makes it safe for your still very vulnerable dog. The taste makes it palatable for most of the pups without any odors making its presence around the house a no hassle. Cons Because it is very soft, many pups have bit pieces off of these treats making it not very durable. Well, I have given mine, listing 10 of the highest rated Dog Bone Chews. As a responsible dog-parent, it is up you to do your research and chose the best treat that your dog-friend is so worth of. Good luck. Frequently Asked Questions What are the misconceptions about why dogs love chewing bones? There are a lot of misconceptions and theories when it comes to bone snack, but in matter of fact dogs raw bones are safe snack when given in proper supervision. Bones not only help in filling phosphorus and calcium along with that it is a great exercise for jaws, some studies suggest that it can help dogs relieve anxiety and stress so feel free to give your dog a yummy snack. Can German shepherds chew on bones? German shepherds can absolutely chew on bones under correct supervision, swallowing them can cause health issues, for the safe side let your dog throw away the bone when it had enough chewing marks. Can my dog eat bones? Yes dogs can eat bones to stay healthy and to help their brain stimulate better. It is a great source of phosphorus and calcium. How often it is safe to give dog bones? It can vary depending between once or twice a week, it is best to consult your vet for proper guidance some dogs like to chew on bones more frequently. Can a German shepherd eat chicken? Well interestingly dogs can eat various human foods ranging from pork to chicken,you can also give your dogs yogurt and vegetables and they will enjoy a lot. Can my German shepherd eat eggs? If we talk about raw eggs there are some reservations and health risks whereas cooked eggs are perfectly fine. You might also like. They are filled with natural marrow with no added additives. The natural marrow bones are bacteria-free and safe to consume. The bones are handpicked and inspected, to enhance quality and consistency. They are odor-free, have a perfect texture and thickness. They keep the teeth clean and effectively remove tartar build-up and plaque. Pros They are sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle Made from one natural ingredient Effectively removes tartar build-up and plaque They have a perfect thickness Cons Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Bones If you are looking for grain-free bones for your German Shepherd, the Blue Buffalo wilderness wild bones are a great option. These bones are great for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. They contain zero poultry by-products, and they are formulated to strengthen the canine. They are perfectly roasted for your German Shepherd to enjoy a rich meaty taste. They are natural and have no artificial ingredients or additives. The bones are gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free. For a large breed like a german shepherd, these bones last long and can withstand aggressive chewing. They are stuffed with beneficial ingredients to keep your dog healthy. The bones are formulated to give your dog a healthy jaw. The rich taste makes the dog want to chew throughout, therefore strengthening the jaw. Pros They have a rich beef taste They are slow-roasted to preserve the taste They are natural.

These desirable qualities are a result of meticulous breeding practices and superior genetics. Ritterhund K9s are specifically bred for stability and soundness. Our German Shepherds exemplify the values of Obedience, Protection, and Service, making them exceptional ambassadors. While they possess strength, endurance, and speed, they are also affectionate and devoted family companions. These are the dogs you can rely on to safeguard your home and watch over your loved ones when you're away. German Shepherds view their family as their "pack" and are instinctively protective. They can cuddle with your toddler and accompany your child to the school bus, but should any threat arise, their strength and fierceness will manifest as an unstoppable force. When you become part of the Ritterhund Family, you become a lifelong member. We take great pride in our breeding program and are committed to surpassing expectations for both our K9s and customers. If you are fortunate enough to own a German Shepherd with these genetics, then you understand the difference in these K9s. Bomber is an absolute legend in the K9 Community. These puppies will be large, have high and medium drives, and be steady-tempered. We put countless hours into raising them with the proper foundation they need. Structural balance and harmony that you will only find in this genetic combination we have in this breeding. We are very selective in the homes in which our puppies are placed. A family who is educated on the breed, lives an active lifestyle, and who are willing and able to put the time and effort into properly raising their puppy. We are located near the Central Coast of California. We hand deliver our puppies to their new owners if within reasonable driving distance for no charge. Air in-cabin flight nanny and Ground transport are available for an additional charge for customers located out of the surrounding areas or state. We highly recommend placing a deposit early as our puppies do go quickly. Please download the puppy application or contact us via email or text for details. History: Origins of the German Shepherd The reason most people picture GSDs as police or military dogs is because they were bred to work! As their name suggests, German Shepherds were bred in to herd and protect sheep in Germany. Sought after for their unique coats, and protective nature, the GSD makes an ideal guard dog. If you choose to add a Black German Shepherd to your family, you will certainly be impressed with how easy he is to train! As historic working dogs, GSDs are known for their intelligence and trainability. Breeding litters of all Black German Shepherds is difficult and usually requires two black parents - though sometimes, a black and tan GSD could produce all black puppies. Or, you could adopt one from a local shelter or rescue organization! Temperament: What to Expect from Your Black German Shepherd Like most dogs, the Black German Shepherd will thrive with early and frequent socialization with pets and people of all ages. While they are naturally pretty friendly and loving, they may warm slowly to strangers. But, they are incredibly loyal and devoted to every member of their families! Working dogs love to have a job and the Black GSD is no exception. As a house pet, your Shepherd will likely make up a job of his own - protecting and guarding the family. Ever watchful with those adorably alert ears, the Black German Shepherd will let you know if anything is going on in or around the house. Best suited for families that are home most, or at least part of the day, the Black German Shepherd may suffer separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This loneliness can lead to excessive barking and other destructive behaviors. All German Shepherds are large, powerful, and have great exercise requirements to avoid developing negative habits. They will do best in families that understand and accommodate their specific needs. For example, a small puppy may require about 2, calories per day, spread over a total of four meals. Then, around six months or so, you can reduce the number of meals to two or three. Eventually, as your Black German Shepherd becomes an adult you can switch his food to a large breed adult blend. And you can reduce his calories to about 1,, divided into two meals per day. Of course, your vet is the best resource for any specific nutrition questions! As a large, working breed your GSD requires at least one hour of vigorous exercise each day. As a whole, German Shepherds love to swim, run, hike, and they could spend hours playing brain games. This is why they are so favored by law enforcement and the military. Black German Shepherds are no different. Like we mentioned earlier, the most important part of training entails early and frequent socialization to many different people, places, and things. If your puppy has never met a man in a hat, he may feel threatened by them later on. This could cause excessive barking, and even growling and aggression if a man with a hat comes over to your home. To avoid these problematic behaviors, make sure you use those puppy months to your advantage. Introduce your Black German Shepherd to the mailman, the neighborhood kids, the group of cyclists that bike by your house every morning. And when he responds appropriately, reward him with love and praise in the form of petting and toys or small treats. Negative training methods like punishment are proven to cause deeper behavioral issues. So sticking to positive, rewards based method is always best. Not only will it build trust and provide clear boundaries, it will make your Black German Shepherd puppy very happy! During this time, daily brushing may help the process along. But during the rest of the year, your Black German Shepherd should only require a good brushing once or twice a week. When it comes to keeping clean, try to spot clean dirt or mud, and only give your GSD a full bath every couple of months. Bathing him too much strips his skin and coat of their natural oils and dries them out. Ears should be checked at least once a week, more if your Black German Shepherd swims often. Because they stand erect on their heads, instead of flopping over like most dogs, the GSD ears tend to get dirtier than others. But no worries, you can simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth! And of course, because grooming can be stressful to some dogs, start gently brushing and bathing your puppy as soon as you bring him home. This will help your Black GSD grow accustomed to the process and accept it as a normal part of his life- instead of something to be feared. Heath Considerations: What to Know about the Black German Shepherd In addition to the Bloat that we mentioned in the feeding section, large dogs are also more prone to issues with their hips, elbows, and joints. This condition is caused by abnormal development and leads to pain and disability. It can usually be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery in extreme cases. All reputable breeders will have this information available. Osteoarthritis is also common in large breeds as they age. This condition causes the joints to deteriorate over time, leading to pain and disability as well. However, it can be managed successfully with medications and supplements. The best way to help your Black German Shepherd live a long and healthy life is to keep up with his annual vet visits. Preventative medications and vaccinations are an integral part of raising a happy, healthy pup! They are easy to train and will love you for life! With proper socialization and boundaries, the Black German Shepherd will become a loyal and obedient companion to the whole family. Of course, they also love a good brain teaser and will strive to solve any puzzle. One of the smartest breeds to exist, the German Shepherd is a favorite to many! So what do you think? Has he won your heart? However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

French bulldog puppies Annapolis Valley I have 2 girls and 1 boy available. Please Contact American bulldog puppies Halifax Puppies come with their first set of vaccines, several deworming's, and vet record. Parents on site. Puppies are well socialized in home with people, children and other animals. The gas-injected glass-filled polypropylene seat back and chair legs are both rustproof and UV protected. Award-winning and ergonomically designed for comfort lumbar support and tested up to lbs. Color; Fawn. Growing up in house, playing with kids. Health checked, Chipped, dewormed, vaccinated. Puppies come dewormed, microchipped, vaccinated up to.We've been breeding this cross for 8 years and they absolutely give you.They will be dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped, and sent home with a small bag of food and their favorite.For more pictures of the colors just message. They are all good to go. Willing to negotiate price. They come with vet papers. Natural colours. Exotic woods used for colour. Available for order. Well socialized with cats,dogs and children. Serious inquiries only. Showing 1 - 20 of 20 resultsPage 1 - 20 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Color; Fawn. Growing up in house, playing with kids. Health checked, Chipped, dewormed, vaccinated. French bulldog puppies Annapolis Valley I have 2 girls and 1 boy available. This is my 3rd litter of this mix, same Dad. I own both parents , both have great temperaments.Lilac female and a fawn male. Pups have been vet checked and vaccinated to date. I own both parents , both have great temperaments and are great with kids. Parents are BBOA.Come with health certificate and puppy starter pack 2 puppies left. Male .Dartmouth Hello everyone, we had a beautiful litter yesterday!! The last 2 pictures are of mom and dad, both ckc registered, dewormed, health checked.Please Contact American bulldog puppies Halifax Puppies come with their first set of vaccines, several deworming's, and vet record. Parents on site. Puppies are well socialized in home with people, children and other animals. Puppies come dewormed, microchipped, vaccinated up to.We've been breeding this cross for 8 years and they absolutely give you.They will be dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped, and sent home with a small bag of food and their favorite.For more pictures of the colors just message. They are all good to go. Willing to negotiate price. They come with vet papers. Well socialized with cats,dogs and children. Serious inquiries only. Call or text for more info! Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location.

Please keep in mind that these are estimates to give you a general idea of how tall your French Bulldog puppy will be. At what age is a French Bulldog fully grown? A French Bulldog will reach close to their full weight around eight to twelve months old and maximum height around nine to twelve months of age. French Bulldogs will continue to slowly fill out anywhere between nine to fifteen months of age. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. How big should a 6-month-old French Bulldog be? A male French Bulldog will weigh between 17 and 22 pounds at six months old and have an average weight of .A six-month-old female French Bulldog will weigh between 13 and 20 pounds with an average weight of 17 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand around seven to nine inches on average. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. French Bulldogs usually reach their full height when they are between nine and twelve months old. As short dogs, French Bulldogs barely double in height from three months of age to 1 year old. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, this is a telltale sign that they are still growing! What is the size of a full-grown French Bulldog? Most female French Bulldogs will weigh about 17 to 24 pounds, while male French Bulldogs weigh about 20 to 28 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand 11 to 13 inches tall and have a muscular, heavy-boned build. How do I make sure my French Bulldog is healthy? As a purebred dog breed, French Bulldogs are more prone to genetic health problems. In particular, French Bulldogs are predisposed to skin problems, ear infections, diarrhea, eye problems, spinal injury and respiratory distress caused by their brachycephalic syndrome. Brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have a flat nose and shorter esophagus, creating a heightened risk of breathing problems. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that about half of French Bulldogs have significant breathing problems and .In addition to this, French Bulldogs are prone to obesity , which can lead to type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, disc disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and further respiratory issues. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to save on veterinary expenses and ensure that the cost of care never interferes with the essential treatment your pet deserves. Most French Bulldogs do well with a leisurely walk or active playtime. Be careful with taking your French Bulldog out in hot weather though as their brachycephalic syndrome makes them prone to overheating and heat stroke. As a general rule temperatures over 80 degrees should be avoided for French Bulldogs. As loving pet parents, we never want to think the worst could happen to our furbaby. However, we must prepare for both everyday costs, like vaccinations and veterinarian appointments, and emergencies. Dog Insurance is here to help you with emergency costs, as well as expected costs like veterinarian care see the wellness options many pet insurance plans offer. Only .Pet insurance can help you provide your pup with quality routine and emergency care. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Key Takeaways On average, French Bulldogs weigh between pounds at age one, with inches in height. French Bulldogs stop growing around months old, so pet owners should be mindful of weight gain after their first birthday. As a breed, French Bulldogs are exceptionally prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing problems and lead to a number of secondary health concerns. Use our French Bulldog growth chart to monitor your puppy's weight and ensure they stay within a healthy range. Pet insurance promotes positive veterinary care and offsets the cost of services should your Frenchie get sick or injured at any point in life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The early months are critical. The timing is vital. Some apply to all dogs, such as distemper and rabies. If your French Bulldog is in contact with other pups, you should get him a kennel cough vaccine. Likewise, if you take him on the trail with you, consider getting him a Lyme disease vaccine. They are starting to learn social skills and how they fit in the hierarchy with their littermates. They are becoming more independent and starting to show signs of their unique personalities that will define them as adults. Socialization is critical at this age as it will determine how well he gets along with other people and pets. Anything is fair game for this pup. You can transition him to a dog food for pups at this life stage. A French Bulldog reaches his adult size at 12 months. Unfortunately, this pup has a relatively high tendency to gain weight. That puts him at risk for many chronic health conditions that can complicate the ones associate with him being a brachycephalic breed. That brings a host of other health issues that advisable to avoid. While breeding also can have adverse effects, keeping your pet intact may offer a viable option. More likely, stunted growth is the outcome. Growing up takes a lot of energy. The danger of stunted growth also extends toward so-called teacup varieties. These pups are at a greater risk for health problems because of their size. We recommend buying puppies from reputable breeders who understand the particular needs of the French Bulldog. The best way to gauge the weight of your French Bulldog is to look down at his body shape from above him. He should have a well-defined waist. You should also be able to feel his ribs. The feeding guidelines on the back of the package or can are not written in stone. Base his feeding schedule on his current weight and state of health. An online calorie calculator can help you plan his mealtimes correctly. Conclusion The cuteness of the French Bulldog makes it easy to overfeed him. His cute face begs for a treat. It will reduce his risk of chronic health conditions and improve his quality of life. After all, you want him to hang around as long as possible as your BFF. See also:. Final Thoughts A four months old French bulldog puppy is in such a stage where it is only starting its teething process and is being aware of its surrounding by exploring. Therefore, it is really important in this stage for you as a dog owner to give proper support, care, and love to your 4 months old French bulldog puppy. Accordingly, for this reason, you must be aware of the appropriate height of your 4 months old French bulldog which is inches so that you can determine its needs and wants accordingly. It is very beneficial to be aware of such weight range of your Frenchie so that you can act accordingly. Accordingly, this is important to remember because this distinction will help you to modify your care, exercise requirement, food intake, training techniques, and so on accordingly. Your four months old French bulldog needs to be given high-quality and vitamin filled food so that the food assists in their growth. Accordingly, at this time, you should give your 4-month-old French bulldog kibble or pet food. In addition, it is better to give your 4-month-old French bulldog dry pet food rather than giving them raw food. How much should a 4 month old french bulldog eat? It is really important to maintain a proper and precise diet for your 4-month-old French bulldog. Accordingly, your four-month-old French bulldog should only eat 1. In addition, this amount of food again should be separated and divided into three meals per day. Moreover, how much your four-month-old French bulldog should eat can also depend on the activity level of your dog, the size of your dog, and its metabolism. Accordingly, if your 4-month-old French bulldog seems to be very active and plays quite a lot, then you need to increase the quantity of food you give to your bulldog puppy. However, when French bulldogs bark, it can be due to several reasons. Accordingly, these barking behavioral traits in 4 months old French bulldogs can be an indication of seeking attention or asserting their protective behavior towards the owner. Moreover, another reason why 4-month-old French bulldogs may bark is due to some pain they may be facing. In addition, French bulldogs who are four months old also like to be near their owner and when they are left alone, they will bark for getting the attention of their owner. Moreover, sometimes the behavioral trait of barking in your 4-month-old French bulldog can be due to genetics as well. Biting: It is very common for your French bulldogs who are four months old to bite their owner because this is their teething phase which is making them bite everything. In addition, along with their teething phase, they will bite solely as a fun activity as they like to explore things with their mouth at such a young age. In addition, the biting issue is not a big concern when you have a four-month-old French bulldog however, as they will grow up, it can be a matter of concern. Aggressiveness: It is not that common for your 4-month-old French bulldog to show aggression that severely. However, aggression in four months old French bulldog can basically come from the lack of socialization or can be due to the starting of the instinct of being territorial. How much sleep does a 4 month old french bulldog need? It is really important that your 4-month-old French bulldog is well-rested and has a proper sleep routine because it will assist in their mental and physical growth. Accordingly, your 4-month-old French bulldog puppy needs at least 18 to 19 hours of sleep a day. In addition, such a sleeping routine will help your 4-month-old French bulldog puppy to relax its muscles, rejuvenate its energy, and to be well-rested. How much exercise for a 4 month old french bulldog? Accordingly, you need to make sure your 4-month-old French bulldog is getting enough stimulation, and therefore it is better to let them do walking exercises for 20 minutes each day. Accordingly, they should work slowly and will only walk the miles that can be covered within the 20 minutes time period. In addition, this will help to increase mobility and strengthen the joints of your French bulldog puppy. Additionally, these subtle exercises will really help your four-month-old French bulldog puppy to experience several places, socialize, and sniff things for their pleasure. How to train a 4 month old french bulldog? It is really important to train your 4-month-old French bulldog on different matters so that it is easy for you and for your dog to live effortlessly. Therefore, being knowledgeable about the proper ways of training your 4-month-old French bulldog can help you to act accordingly. Potty train: When your French bulldog is somewhere between one to six months old, you need to make sure to potty train your bulldog as soon as possible. In addition, to potty train your four-month-old French bulldog, you need to maintain a specific and scheduled potty break. Accordingly, you need to make sure to take your 4-month-old French bulldog puppy outside or to the potty mat especially after they wake up in the morning, after a meal, after they drink water, or as soon as you see your bulldog puppy start peeing. In addition, there are also other signs that you need to watch out for which may indicate that your bulldog puppy is about to go to the bathroom. Accordingly, these signs include barking, staring, whining, and sniffing. Moreover, once you look for these signs and understand the indication, you need to make sure to take your 4 months old French bulldog outside or to potty training pads. Crate Train: Your 4-month-old French bulldog needs to be crate trained. Accordingly, crate training can be tricky. Moreover, you now need to let your dog hang around the crate on its own for a couple of days so that your 4-month-old French bulldog has time to get adapted to the new circumstances. Furthermore, once you see your French bulldog puppy going inside of the crate on its own and finding it comfortable, you can then start the practice of closing the door but you need to make sure to not do it for long intervals. Obedience training: You do not want your four-month-old French bulldog to be overexcited which can cause minor health risks or a lack of self-control in the dog. Accordingly, teaching your 4-month-old French bulldog to sit before asking for things nicely is really important for them to acquire self-control. Excellent nutrition is important in order to have a healthy and happy dog. There are many varieties of food out there; wet, dry, freeze dried, raw, or cooked. Regardless of what food you decide on, they do need to be on a high-quality and nutritionally balanced dog food. What are the signs of high-quality dog food? The food should contain lean meat-based protein sources such as chicken , turkey , pork and beef. Feeding Your French Bulldog at Different Life Stages Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress on adult dog food. As young puppies, they have a huge requirement for calories and high-quality ingredients to promote puppy growth. Puppies grow rapidly during the first six months of their life and they continue growing more after this period. Without proper nutrition, they might be stunted and underweight. Check out our other article to learn how to switch puppy to two meals per day! Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress to adult dog food. This food will provide the nutrients and calories required to maintain an adult weight. Very active dogs will need more calories while sedentary dogs will need less. Dogs that have been neutered will have slightly different nutritional requirements than other adult dogs. They generally need fewer calories to prevent weight gain which can happen in the months after neutering surgery. This can be achieved by feeding a diet with relatively low carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein. Senior dogs require highly digestible foods and a good source of omega fatty acids for potentially stiff joints. They might require varying levels of protein depending on their kidney function and body condition. Good quality nutrition will keep your dog at optimal body condition and health. Feeding stage-of-life specific recipes allows your dog to have the optimal nutrients for the life stage they are in. However, regardless of small differences, most dogs will loosely follow the growth chart below. Age of French Bulldog.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. 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.

Tell your golden what a good boy or girl it is and offer a treat right after the deed is done. Recommended Videos Be consistent If you want to teach your golden to go outside, you must be consistent. Set an alarm for certain times of the day to go out, so your golden has plenty of chances to get it right. Be realistic about how long your golden can hold it. That will allow you plenty of time to help your puppy make the transition to following the rules of your house. Use the potty command To help ensure your golden does its business, add in the potty command. Each time your dog eliminates after the command, offer praise and treats. It could take some consistent practice for it to go outside, and it may arrive in stages. Your puppy may have trouble at night for a little bit until it understands the schedule and is able to make better decisions. If you find that your puppy is having a lot of trouble getting the command, take a look at your process. Are you expecting your puppy to go too long between potty breaks? Are you inconsistent with your praise or timing? Sometimes, a simple change in your process could finally help your pet over that hurdle. How do I train my golden retriever? Offer praise and treats each time your puppy is successful. This is unhealthy and dangerous. Your puppy will need time to get things right. If you only punish your puppy, it may hide to go to the bathroom to avoid the punishment. The training process may take patience, but goldens are highly trainable dogs. Your puppy is ready to be part of the family and needs a little encouragement to understand the rules and behavior you want to see. Editors' Recommendations. An hour later, the puppy has been running around the house, chugged a bunch of water, pees in the house again, and it starts all over… So how do we stop this cycle from happening? Step 1: Take Them Outside Often Some people recommend taking your puppy outside every 20 minutes, while others recommend every hour. The point is, take your puppy outside often before they need to go. Puppies can hold their bladder for about an hour per their age in months, so a two-month-old puppy can hold it for about two hours, a three-month-old puppy can hold it for about three hours, and so on. But now that playtime is over they suddenly remember they have to pee and this nice carpet looks like the perfect spot! You can use this to your advantage by taking them to the same spot every time. To stop this, you need to clean up accidents with an enzymatic cleaner , not regular soap and water. One issue that many people make we made it, too is praising them too loud and too soon, and interrupting them. Then grab them and bring them outside to their spot and if they finish going, praise them like normal for going outside. So if you do all of the steps above, how long should it take for your puppy to be potty trained? All puppies are different, but it can take two weeks to a few months for your golden retriever puppy to be potty trained. Learn more » Golden Retrievers are intelligent, social dogs that love being around people. Potty training a Golden Retriever puppy can be frustrating and messy, but with some consistency and patience, your dog can be taught how to appropriately handle his business. Just keep in mind that accidents will likely happen. A puppy can typically hold its bladder 1 hour for every month of age, which means a 3-month-old pup can control its bladder for 3 hours. Once you pick a bathroom spot for your Golden, always take him to that spot on a leash. Reward Your Puppy Every Time He Eliminates Outside As soon as your Golden does his business outside in the designated area, reward him with praise or give him a yummy dog treat. Crate Train Your Golden A dog crate can come in very useful when potty training a puppy, as it allows you to watch for signs he needs to go out. Just make sure the crate you use is big enough for your puppy to move around freely but small enough to stop him from using a corner as a pee and poop spot. When done correctly, crate training can teach your dog to enjoy spending time in his crate. Image Credit: Parilov, Shutterstock 5. Clean Up After All Accidents Dogs have the habit of eliminating in the same places over and over again. This is why you should clean up after any previous accidents your Golden pup has had. Use an effective enzymatic cleaner that will do a good job of cleaning up and removing the smell of pee and poop. Image Credit: Olimpik, Shutterstock 7. When food is offered at the same times each day, potty training your Golden Retriever will be easier for you and your pup. Conclusion Potty training a Golden Retriever is not all that difficult to do if you follow these helpful tips and tricks. So they eventually pick what they think is an ideal spot and go potty out of necessity. We all know that puppies pee-a LOT! It seems like they have tiny little bladders. But how long can they hold it before they have to go? Usually, puppies can hold it for somewhere around an hour per month of age. So if your puppy is one month old, one hour, two months old, two hours, three months old, three hours, etc. You just take them outside to go potty and praise them when they go outside. You just take your pup outside before it has time to realize they need to potty. Instead, it ensures that your pup goes outside and never gets the idea that going inside is acceptable. Most pup parents screw up by not taking their pups outside frequently enough, so they have accidents in the house. They go on to get mad at the puppy who has no idea why their owner is scolding them. A little while later, after the pup has drank a bunch of water or wolfed down a ton of food and then had a good romp, the puppy goes in the house again and starts the process all over again. Some say every hour, while others say every 20 minutes. This means to potty train your puppy quickly, you should avoid these accidents entirely and keep ahead of them. This is NOT playtime! Puppies have the attention span of goldfish, so even though they went outside with the initial intention of going potty, they can completely forget why they came outside when they start playing and then just not go. Instead, you can walk around in circles around the area or pace. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for you. Golden Retrievers were originally bred to be hunting dogs, which means they come equipped with an intensely strong sense of smell. Neither soap and water nor regular household cleaners are going to work, no matter what exaggerated claims they make about their odor-fighting power. The reason enzymatic cleaners work is that they chemically break down the odors and destroy them. Golden Retrievers respond really well to positive reinforcement. In fact, they eat it up. They love making you happy! You should be vigilant about supervising your puppy, and not just for potty training reasons. Crate training your Golden Retriever puppy is a great idea. Remember to praise them for going potty outside! Step 5: Handle and Clean Up Accidents Properly The unfortunate truth of potty training is that there will inevitably be accidents. If you catch them in the middle of going potty in the house, find a kind way to startle them. Say it quickly, clearly, and use a voice a little louder than your usual speaking voice. If your puppy finishes going potty outside, then you should praise them and maybe give them a treat. How long does it take to potty train a Golden Retriever puppy? Every puppy is different, and so is their learning speed. You can expect it to take anywhere from two weeks to a couple of months to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy. This can include things like barking, pawing, biting, or nipping. My Heidi grumbles at me. Sitting by the front door or scratching at it. I once had a dog that would go stand at the door and wag his tail when he had to go. It can be a really frustrating process for everyone involved. There will be mistakes, made by both your puppy and you. Depending on your puppy and your training techniques, it can take somewhere between 2 weeks and a couple of months to potty train a Golden Retriever puppy. Because Golden Retrievers are large breed dogs, they tend to pick up potty training faster than smaller breeds. Your puppy can only hold their bladder for around one hour per each month of age. So, if your puppy is 3 months old, you can expect that they can hold it for around 3 hours. Plan to wake up throughout the night to let your puppy out. Adopt the NOAH potty training strategy. And take your puppy outside before you think they have to go. This means letting them out every 30 minutes. Any time your puppy has an accident inside, clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the odor. If you happen to catch your puppy having an accident in progress, interrupt the action, and take the puppy outside. If your puppy resumes going potty outside, then praise and reward them. Praise and reward your Golden Retriever puppy every time they go potty outside, or where you want them to go. Pay attention to your puppy and learn the warning signs that your puppy needs to go. There will be a learning curve. For instance, some puppies prefer grass over things like dirt and mulch. Once you figure that out, you can take your puppy to a nice grassy place to potty. Crate training goes hand-in-hand with potty training. Use the NOAH strategy and try to avoid accidents in the house at all costs. This will make the process go a lot quicker. And lastly, learn the warning signs that your puppy provides to let you know that they need to go potty. There is nothing cuter than a puppy… until it makes that first hot, steamy mess on your new Persian rug. Potty-training frustrations have formed more than a few wedges between new pet parents and their fur babies. Fortunately, with a bit of knowledge, consistency and patience, spending time on your knees scrubbing up pet stains can be a thing of the past! Training Methods to the Madness There are four popular house-training methods utilized by owners: Crate training Constant-supervision Umbilical-cord training. Some people stick to one method, while others use a combination of these different approaches to best suit their lifestyle. Crate Training Crate training works on two genetic principles: the safety of a den and the need to keep it clean. When the pups are old enough, they learn to eliminate outside of their den. Your puppy has these same genetic rules in his brain: the den is a safe place and it needs to be kept clean. Crates utilize these instinctual rules. Therefore, if you put your puppy in the crate, he learns to hold his bladder until you take him to the appropriate spot. The crate is a tool to utilize any time you cannot actively watch your puppy. When your puppy is out, you MUST supervise him at all times. Any time he has an accident in the house, this sets your training back. Some people feel that crate training is cruel. Crates are simply tools. Crate training gives you a break. So go take that bubble bath without fear of an accident! Crate training means no indoor messes to clean up, and no indoor potty smells to trigger repeat performances after being attracted by the scent. When puppies get used to sleeping in their own filth, they lose this natural instinct to keep their crates clean. If crate training is only used to confine your puppy for long periods of time, he may associate it with negative things — such as isolation. Make sure you use the crate in positive ways so your pup associates comfort and good things, such as food, with the crate — not just being left alone. Who Should Use Crate Training? Paper Training Paper training teaches a puppy to go to the bathroom on paper or puppy pads. This allows you to control where your puppy piddles. Begin by putting the puppy in a confined area of the house with tile flooring for easy clean up. Puppies like to eliminate on soft places, so putting paper down gives them this solution. Put paper or puppy pads on all hard surfaces. Your puppy will avoid eliminating on his bed and will use the paper, since it covers all other surfaces. Once he gets the idea, you can slowly begin eliminating the paper, starting with material closest to the bed. Leave a small piece of slightly soiled paper where you want your puppy to continue to eliminate. This utilizes the principle that puppies like to eliminate where they smell their previous offerings. The goal is for your puppy to learn to go only on the paper. If you want to eventually have your puppy eliminate outside, you can then slowly move the paper towards the door, and then put some paper outside. When your puppy goes to the paper inside, you can open the door and let them go on the paper outside. You then slowly take away the inside paper until they are going to the door to use only the outside paper. Cons of Paper Training If your goal is to get your puppy to eliminate outside, paper training can lengthen house training because your dog is taught to go inside the house first and you then have to basically re-train them. You also have a lot of stinky messes to clean up. Who Should Use Paper Training? Paper training gives your puppy room to play, while still allowing him to eliminate without the need for owner intervention. Constant-Supervision Training Constant-supervision training means that you never take your eyes off your puppy. You learn how to identify when you puppy needs to go, and at the first signal of circling or sniffing you scoop up your fur kid and take him to his potty spot in the yard. This training method requires a lot of intense observation and is best suited for only the most vigilant of owners. Pros of Constant-Supervision Training Your pup has a lot more freedom, and you are there for his every action. When you turn your back for a second — and you will — your puppy will sneak off and make a mistake in the house. This method can take longer than crate training. You must have the time to completely devote to your puppy during the housebreaking period, or you will be cleaning up a lot of messes on your carpet. Constant-supervision training may be best if you have plenty of time to devote solely to the new addition. You must also be constantly home during the potty-training period. You still watch your puppy during his every waking moment, but you use a six-foot leash to keep him tethered to you. You then watch for the signals that your puppy needs to go and take him outside. Pros of Umbilical-Cord Training You only need a leash to start the training, and you can also train your puppy to walk on the leash at the same time. Your puppy gets the exposure and socialization that comes with going everywhere with you. Cons of Umbilical-Cord Training You must have your puppy tied to you at all times, which can be difficult. This can be dangerous if they get caught up in something. If you like constant-supervision training, but want the added security of not losing track of your pup, umbilical-cord training may be a better option. Again, you must be able to keep your puppy with you wherever you go during the day. Your puppy is not eliminating in the house to be spiteful. Do NOT personalize this process. At 8 weeks, most puppies cannot last past two hours. At 12 weeks, this time extends to three hours. At 16 weeks, puppies can wait up to four hours between potty breaks. Punishing a puppy when you find the mess is not helpful and damages your relationship. If you find a mess, simply clean it up. Puppies operate on schedules. When you adapt to the same schedule, you can anticipate their needs and set them up for success. Puppies potty after a long nap, after a meal and after a good play session. They will also need to go out first thing in the morning and right before bed. Your puppy will give you signals when they need to go , such as moving away from you, circling, sniffing or squatting. Puppies tend to go back to the same place they have soiled before. If you do have an accident in the house, you must eliminate all traces of the odor to avoid a repeat offender. Reward your puppy for going to the bathroom where you want. If you catch them in the act of making a mess in the wrong place, distract them, and then pick them up to take them to the proper location to finish. With consistency, they begin to make the word association. The best way to house train a puppy for you may be sticking to one plan, or utilizing multiple approaches to achieve a perfectly house-trained pet. With a little guidance and a lot of love, you and your puppy will find the right balance of a well-behaved dog and an unsoiled Persian rug! This series contains everything a Golden owner needs to know on the subject and should have your puppy or dog toilet trained in the fastest, most effective and painless way for all involved. We strongly recommend reading through the whole series before you begin, to give yourself the skills and knowledge for the greatest chance at speedy success.

All the puppies are raised in a loving family environment on their rural homestead. Personal Experience One of the most challenging aspects of bringing your puppy home is potty training him. The first thing to know is that you must start potty training your furbaby from the minute you get him home. When we arrived home with our new puppy, the first thing we did was take him straight out into the garden. As soon as the little guy relieved himself, I made a big fuss of him, and then we went indoors. Mark The Spot! That enabled me to grab the puppy and take him outside before accidents happened. Gradually, Raffles learned where his poop place was, and he quickly gravitated to the spot where the first potty stop was. After a couple of weeks, the accidents became less frequent, and by week four, little Raffles was pretty much potty trained! If you did, please remember to share! Goldendoodles are extremely popular dogs, so you can expect to pay top dollar for a well-bred puppy. Puppies offered for sale at very cheap prices are often from puppy mills or backyard breeders. Our goldendoodle puppies are raised to be the best pet for their new owners and come well socialized. These goldendoodles get lots of attention from a large family and are raised in a relaxed rural setting. Health Guarantee Our goldendoodle puppies come with a 7 day health guarantee and a 2 year genetic guarantee. We never want any of our goldendoodles to have to go through any physical pain, especially that which is caused by careless breeding of unhealthy dogs or the mistreatment of the puppy. Health of a puppy is our first concern, followed by the temperament which is explained below in the Training section. Our Goldendoodle Puppies We raise Goldendoodles. The first generation goldendoodles have a hybrid vigor common to first generation crosses. Hybrid, or F1, goldendoodle are less susceptible to common illnesses that are common to purebreds and are generally more allergy friendly than the retrievers. Most shed little and all are very intelligent. The type of coat on each of our goldendoodle puppies ranges from slightly wavy to extremely curly. Update: we are no longer raising miniature labradoodle puppies due to inconsistent coat qualities. We have been more successful in achieving lower shedding and softer coats with the miniature goldendoodle breed. Miniature Doodles We started out breeding the standard Labradoodle and Goldendoodle breeds, but we now specialize in Miniature Goldendoodles. These are also a first generation, first generation backcross, or multigen hybrid crosses, but between the golden retriever and a miniature poodle breeds. Miniature, also known as mini, goldendoodles have become increasingly popular because they retain the same retriever doodles temperaments and coat qualities only in a little smaller package. These mini goldendoodles make ideal pets for families looking for a mid-sized dog. We have experienced a little more size variation with the miniature doodles, but most should stay in the pound range F1 miniature goldendoodle, pound range F1b miniature goldendoodle , or pound range multigen miniature goldendoodle. We have had a number of miniature goldendoodle litters without the health problems that many breeders like to warn pet seekers of. As far as we know, there has been no proven health or genetic issues differing from standard breeding except that of irresponsible breeding of unhealthy Golden retriever adults with unhealthy miniature poodles. Training One of the greatest qualities of goldendoodles is their ability to be easily trained. This results from their natural affection and desire to please. Despite this, training is one of the most important aspects of a goldendoodle puppy's life. Temperament: When a puppy is first born, it requires most of its attention from its mother. By the time a goldendoodle reaches 4 weeks old, they become quite playful. It is at this age that we begin playing with and socializing each one individually. Socialization is the most important training a goldendoodle can have between 8 and 12 weeks old. This is where goldendoodles develop their temperaments that will stay with it for the rest of their dog life. Obedience: Starting from weeks old, goldendoodles should begin obedience training, whether with a professional, or at home. It is here a goldendoodle will learn which types of behavior are accepted and which are not. It is essential that goldendoodles learn who is the boss, yet the owner must treat a puppy with respect and care to achieve the best results for temperament and obedience. Potty training is also a type of obedience training. You must create a schedule or perform a certain activity to get the puppy accustomed to its potty routine. Other simple obedience training areas that must be addressed include: nipping, jumping, digging, chewing, and yard boundaries. Purchasing Please search through our puppies available and email at sandyridge gmail. The balance the payment is due when puppies are 6 weeks old. You may pick out your puppy when they are 6 weeks old and may take your puppy home when it is weeks old, depending on the size. New owners are handled on a first come, first serve basis. Those who place a down payment first on a new litter will receive pick of the litter. Thank you for visiting Sandy Ridge Puppies. Please enjoy your stay. You may visit the goldendoodle puppy page for more information on availability. Mini goldendoodles tend to be sold quickly when available, so please contact us if you are seriously interested in a one of our miniature goldendoodle puppies. Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle Miniature goldendoodles have found their place in the lives of many families. Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle is a leader in the breeding of healthy, happy, and intelligent mini goldendoodles. Our experience with raising miniature goldendoodle puppies has given us much insight on genetics involved and the overall characterizations of this breed. Our family lives in a relaxed rural setting where our adults and puppies are given much attention and care. In settling on the miniature goldendoodle as the breed for Sandy Ridge, we put much consideration into the qualities we were looking for in our puppies. Below are outlined some of the leading criteria required in our search for the perfect breed — miniature goldendoodle. Our priorities for our mini goldendoodle puppies include: health, temperament, coat quality, size, and appearance. Health Our mini goldendoodle puppies are raised from our experience with genetics involved to be the healthiest we can possibly produce. Through our testing and experience, we do everything we feel possible to eliminate health problems for our mini goldendoodle puppies. Our utmost desire is to produce healthy mini goldendoodle puppies that are able to live long and happy lives. In the unfortunate situation a health problem does arise, we offer a two year genetic guarantee against debilitating genetic defects in our miniature goldendoodles. Temperament In our search for the perfect breed, a mild yet playful disposition was our goal. We could not be happier with the success in the miniature goldendoodle temperament. Playfulness and interaction is the motivation for the activity of a mini goldendoodle. While playful in action, a mini goldendoodle is as equally interactive in the mild manner of quiet and caressing attention. Showing the temperament of contentment, a miniature goldendoodle will often be found lounging by their human friends or patiently waiting for attention. Children typically find an inseparable friend and adults find companionship in a miniature goldendoodle. Coat Quality The quest for the perfect breed cannot be completed without the characteristics of a low shedding coat. Miniature goldendoodles gather the quality well known from the poodle breed of hair instead of fur. While we cannot guarantee a mini goldendoodle will not shed, our mini goldendoodle puppies show low to non-shedding characteristics. We have experience raising miniature and standard labradoodles, but never found the consistency evident in the mini goldendoodle coat. Due to this experience, we no longer raise labradoodles and recommend interested families to consider our experience in your decision. Size Sandy Ridge also has experience raising standard size goldendoodles, but we were looking for a size of goldendoodle that fits into the family setting. A mini goldendoodle is well adapted to any size of living space, whether an intercity apartment, suburban home, or sprawling farm. Our first generation mini goldendoodles F1 miniature goldendoodles are typically lbs as adults, which is a mid size dog. Our first generation backcross mini goldendoodles F1b miniature goldendoodles are typically lbs as adults, which is a smaller medium breed dog. Our multigen miniature goldendoodles are our smallest size that are typically lbs as adults. Appearance Our experience with genetics of miniature poodles and golden retrievers has shown a vast difference in the appearance of dogs from both breeds and the mini goldendoodle result. We do not prefer a miniature goldendoodle that favors the look of the tradition poodle and most goldendoodles long nose, long legs, and slender bodies. While not easy, we have selected adults for our breeding that give us mini goldendoodles with solid bodies, shorter noses, and teddy bear faces. Many families have come to appreciate our teddy bear miniature goldendoodles that are unique to Sandy Ridge. Purchasing Please email for current pricing of our miniature goldendoodles. All puppies picked up will be charged Iowa sales tax. Contact Us Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. Email as a first contact is typically the best contact sandyridge gmail. Thanks, and enjoy your experience with Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle.

They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions! Although they are occasionally characterized as a finicky breed, miniature poodles are actually wonderful family dogs thanks to their smarts, their eager-to-please attitude, and their gentle demeanor with kids and other pets. They're an easy breed to train , low-allergen, and low-odor, so they fit in well with most homes and families. Though their low-shedding curly coats have the benefit of being nearly hypoallergenic , they do require lots of care and grooming. If you have the time and resources to dedicate to these peaceful pups, they make loving and loyal companions. Miniatures fall into the middle of the pack; standard poodles are the largest and toy poodles are the smallest. Some breed enthusiasts argue that there are actually five poodle classes, though the Klein or medium poodle and the teacup poodle have yet to be recognized by the AKC. Like their standard and toy-size cousins, miniature poodles have athletic, muscly bodies thanks to their origins as water retrieval dogs for duck hunters. Like their breed siblings, mini poodles have curly coats, lively faces, and dark eyes. While the elaborate continental hairdo, with its curling pom-poms carefully shaped and clipped around the joints and chest, is popular with show poodles, most miniature poodle owners prefer the low-key sporting clip, a short, one-length cut that looks a bit less like a topiary. No problem. The miniature poodle comes in an array of hues, including black, white, apricot, grey, silver, and brown. The breed tends to shed only minimally, so you won't need to stock up on lint rollers with a mini poodle around. And, while no dog is truly hypoallergenic , poodles of all sizes can be a good fit for people with allergies. Temperament When compared to their breed siblings, miniature poodles fall in the middle of the pack in terms of temperament, too. Tiny toy poodles tend to be a little more hyper, while the standard is the calmest of the three. All poodle types can be anxious and timid at times and do best in a peaceful living arrangement with lots of attention and care. Miniature poodles are smart, active, and playful. They love to romp and play nearly non-stop as puppies and young dogs. Their activity levels do change with maturity, but you can expect your miniature poodle to stay pretty active even as an adult dog. When they meet someone new, their reactions can range from friendly and polite to shy and timid. Their sensitive nature sometimes results in hypersensitivity and anxiety; help your mini out by socializing them early and providing them a stable, conflict-free living arrangement. That can actually be a reflection of a number of things, but the most prominent variable is socialization, either the implementation of it or lack thereof," Silverman says. Living Needs These little athletes love space to run and burn off their extra energy, so a big fenced-in yard or frequent trips to the dog park is a plus. Their small size means they can live well in an apartment as long as they get their exercise needs met, says Chyrle Bonk, DVM at Pet Keen. Miniature poodles are peaceful dogs who know how to play nice with children, Bonk says. And, with proper socialization, poodles can be friendly with other pets. But because they can be anxious, a poodle might not thrive if you have a revolving door of visitors or a noisy, chaotic living situation. Early socialization will keep your miniature poodle from being overly watchful and timid. Spending time with their owners is important to minis—they can become lonely or experience separation anxiety if left alone too often. As Bonk says, poodles "require a lot of attention and mental stimulation to fill their hours. They aren't going to like being left alone without something to do. But lack of shedding doesn't mean it's a no-maintenance coat. Bonk says your mini needs daily brushing to prevent matting. Even when they're given a simple one-length-all-over sporting clip, miniature poodles require regular grooming appointments—or an owner who is seriously skilled with clippers. Miniature poodles are active, athletic dogs who need plenty of daily exercise and long daily strolls. They're up for adventure and love to stay busy, so it won't be hard to keep them moving. Miniature poodles love to swim , and swimming can be an excellent workout for these curly cuties. Minis also love playing fetch and can burn off some of their abundant energy chasing after balls and sticks in the backyard. These tiny athletes also excel in obedience training and agility. Because of this, I would recommend starting by teaching them to jump up on something elevated, like a low chair, couch or bed," Silverman says. Bonk recommends keeping training upbeat, fun, and not repetitive. Encouraging your pup with lots of praise and consistency will get your eager-to-please mini in his zone. Thanks to their people-pleasing nature, miniature poodles are typically easy to potty train. Just make sure they have a healthy diet of high-quality dog food and plenty of fresh, clean water available. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend a food with the right nutrients for your dog's age and nutritional needs. Health Miniature poodles usually live long lives of 10—18 years and are generally healthy dogs. Reputable poodle breeders routinely test their dogs for health conditions miniature poodles are prone to, including hip dysplasia , eye problems , and orthopedic issues such as luxating patella. Miniature poodles are also prone to dental disease. Tartar build up can lead to more serious issues including infection, tooth loss, and organ damage, so regular teeth cleanings —either at home or through your veterinarian —are a must. Keeping regularly scheduled veterinary appointments will help you stay up-to-date on your individual miniature poodle's health and well-being. History Poodles originated in Germany as duck-hunting dogs—the name poodle coming from the word pudelin, a German-language reference to the breed's fondness for water, the AKC says. Their intelligence, swimming abilities, and protective coat made them ideal workers for water retrieval. While standard poodles were historically the dominant breed size used for hunting, many sporting clubs now use their smaller kin to assist with flushing fowl from brush. The intricate continental clip most people associate the poodle with is for more than just a style choice. The distinctive cut was originally designed to keep dogs being used for water retrieval comfortable and buoyant in icy waters. By cutting the hair short on the limbs, they gave the dogs the freedom of movement they needed to swim while protecting their organs and joints by leaving the hair longer in those areas, according to the AKC. The poodle's natural elegance and trainability made poodles of all sizes the stars of many European circus acts. It's believed that the standard poodle was the first of the breed and that miniature and toy varieties were developed later. The French are largely believed to have evolved the original continental cut into the style it is today, making the remaining hair more round and adding the distinctive tail pom. Miniature poodles appear in many movies including Jaws, Bingo! Your browser does not support the audio tag. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most European countries. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Miniature Poodle is an intelligent, joyful companion dog. It can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please its handler. Comical and clever, it is often used as a circus dog. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied. This breed cannot live outside in a kennel. It needs to be part of the family. It can be high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. Do not allow this dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome , where the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans. It can cause the dog to become sensitive and nervous , and not very trustworthy with children and possibly strangers, along with many other behavior issues. Socialize your dog well. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. Dogs may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication , rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Height, Weight Height: 11 - 15 inches 28 - 38 cm Weight: 15 - 17 pounds 7 - 8 kg The sizes of the official AKC-recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulder cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard. Exercise Miniature Poodles need a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. As with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. They adore water and love sessions of play. They are a very versatile breed with a hunting and retrieving beginning, although they excel in any performance event you offer them, including agility, obedience, rally and conformation showing, and often one will leave one ring and go directly to another to compete again. Since they love water they are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. Life Expectancy.

German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. German Shepherds are powerful guard dogs that make great pets. However, raising a German shepherd puppy is not an easy task. Make sure you purchase more than enough food a few days before your puppy arrives and create a space for storing them in your home. Puppy-Proof Your Home German Shepherd puppies are curious creatures that love putting their nose in everything around the house. So, the first thing you should do to keep your pup safe is puppy-proof your home. Puppy proofing your home can help you keep your new pet out of certain rooms in the house. You can use baby gates to keep your dog confined in a particular part of the house. You can also cover or replace all the electrical cords in the home. Puppy proofing the house can make it easy for you to train your new pup. Build a Feeding Stand Dogs are possessive creatures; therefore, your new pup cannot feed or drink water using just any bowl in the house. So, make sure you get some high-quality bowls for the new addition to your family. The bowls should be big enough to feed your dog for several years. And instead of putting the bowls on the floor, you can even build a feeding stand for your new pup. A food stand can help you prevent food spillage and save you some cash in the end. It can even stress it out. Make sure you pick a place in the house with less traffic; after all, no pet loves eating in a high traffic place. Create More Space in Your Home for the Dog Adopting a pet means creating room for an extra member of your family in the house. Finding it when your pup is itching for its walk can be quite tedious. So, find out which house plants and flowers can affect your German Shepherd pup. And if the ones in your home are poisonous, you can replace them before your new pup arrives. One of the best ways to keep them from danger is by ensuring your backyard has a high fence. A high fence can help you keep your pet out of danger by keeping it from wandering out of your compound. If you plan on giving your pet free reign, then make sure your fence is high enough. Most pet parents already have other animals in their home. Therefore, you should prepare a safe space for introducing your current pets to the new addition to your home. After all, cats are territorial creatures that need their own space. Create a Dog Potty Area A dog potty area can come in handy, especially when potty training your new pup. Look for a nice place in your compound with less traffic and build a potty area for your new dog. It can be a particular corner in your backyard. A pet door can allow your dog to enter and leave the house at any time. Plus, if the potty region is in your backyard, a pet door can help you prevent your pup from soiling itself in the house. Conclusion Other than protecting us, a German Shepherd pup can bring joy into your life. Make sure you pet-proof your home and create space for your new pup in the house before it arrives. Preparing your home before the pup arrives can make it easy for it to adjust to its new home. Guest Post by:.