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

Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:.

Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Some Final Words After you decide on a toy poodle and the gender, you still have to decide on the type of food you will feed him or her. Plus, you have to learn how much to feed your little puppy. Once you make all the decisions, the rest should be easy. To learn how to feed your toy poodle and what food you should use, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about so that your little fell or gal will be healthy for years to come. Take a few minutes to see how important this information is. You do not want to feed too much to your little pet. It is easy for a dog to gain weight and become too fat. Then you have the difficult task of getting them to slim down. That may be harder than it is for you to stick to a diet. You can feed them a little less if you want to but not too much less. Their growing bodies need the nourishment of nutritious dog food. Many dogs may whine if they are only fed once a day and the reason for that is that they are probably hungry. However, you do not want to serve them large meals each time you feed them. Split the amount up over the number of times they eat so that they get the same amount of food. Also, you may give more food if your dog is a little more active than average. While you do not want to over-feed your pet, you also do not want to underfeed them either. For the most part, this will be up to you. Many people like to feed their dogs only once a day. But if their day is active, your pet may be hungry again in the evening or at night. It is not cruel to feed a dog once a day but if your pet is hungry, you should make allowances in the schedule to make sure they are getting their full nourishment share each day. To add a little variety to their diet, you can mix in some human food. The type of human food you give your toy poodle should be healthy and full of vitamins and minerals. For specific foods to share with him or her, talk to your vet. A lot of times, poodles and other dogs will decide which human food they like. While some people recommend up to three times a day, there is a risk of over-feeding your pet and giving them too much food. Of course, if your pet is very active, then you may give them some extra meals or snacks but not too much. The risk of over-feeding your poodle is great and your treasured friend may develop different diseases if you overdo the feeding portion of their day. There are some foods that your pet should not or cannot eat. Some of those food items are chocolate, xylitol, grapes, macadamia nuts, raisins, or drink alcohol. While these items may make your dog beg for some, resist their puppy dog eyes, and say no. Every dog owner and vet have their own personal favorites. You can choose any one of the top brands on the market today be wary of the cheap off-brand varieties. Those cheaper foods may fit your budget, but they are not as healthy as the top brands are. They do not have the very best or healthiest ingredients in them. Some Final Words Feeding your pet is a bit of trial and error. With every dog being different, you have to find the right amount of food and the right number of feeding times for your dog. Make food adjustments as you monitor their weight and their growth. Taking care of your pet means making sure they are getting the proper diet and exercise as well as the right amount of food. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As your Toy Poodle puppy is maturing and growing, it is crucial to provide it with the proper diet and our Toy Poodle feeding chart will help you. This comprehensive manual is packed with advice that will assist you in providing appropriate portions. Provide a healthy and well-balanced diet tailored to the specific requirements of your Toy Poodle puppy. Until they are six months old, Toy Poodle puppies should eat three or four small meals a day. The six-month mark marks the time when you should begin reducing their daily intake to two meals. Toy Poodle Feeding Chart RER is the amount of energy a Toy Poodle puppy needs at rest to keep their vital organs working, including their respiratory system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system. Hence, your Toy Poodle puppy would require about calories per day in order to keep its body running normally while at rest. You should talk to your vet about how much food and how many calories your Toy Poodle puppy needs. Begin feeding your dog wet puppy chow and other solid foods around week 5. Have patience as your dog undergoes the transition to a new diet. Provide quarter cup of food at each of three to four meals a day. Maintain a regular feeding schedule, and transition your puppy to a dry kibble diet. Keep an eye out for signs of diarrhea and make sure they have plenty of water. Provide plenty water and keep an eye out for symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. It may be beneficial to eat only twice or three times a day instead of six or seven times a day. Maintain a steady supply of fresh water and watch for signs of diarrhea or weight gain. Toy Poodle puppies require a high-quality meal that has been developed just for them. Keep an eye out for symptoms of bloating, gas, or constipation. You should start transitioning your Toy Poodle to an adult diet as soon as possible. Keep an eye out for any signs of bloating, gas, or an allergy. Never stop providing a healthy, age-appropriate diet and plenty of fresh water. Maintain a healthy, age-appropriate diet while keeping an eye out for tummy troubles, allergies, or excess weight gain. Toy Poodles are prone to being overweight, so take care not to overfeed or underfeed them. You should feed them twice a day, each time with about a half cup to three quarters of a cup of food. Adjust feeding amounts based on indicators of gastrointestinal distress, food allergies, or weight gain. High-quality protein, vital fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are all components of a healthy diet. A 4-pound Toy Poodle puppy would need roughly calories per day, or calories per pound of body weight. Their calorie requirements will rise as they get taller. Try to eat meat, fish, and eggs as protein sources. Puppies need DHA and other essential fatty acids for proper brain and eye development. Before they reach about six months of age, Toy Poodle puppies should be fed three to four small meals every day. Take into account their age, and degree of activity when determining the appropriate portion size for their meals. To find out how much food your puppy should be eating, talk to your vet. You should also provide your puppy access to clean water at all times and steer clear of feeding it any human food or table scraps to prevent them from becoming overweight or nutritionally deficient. Kibble vs Wet Food For Toy Poodle Puppies Puppy kibble and wet food are both good options for feeding your toy poodle, but they are not identical. Kibble is practical since it can be stored easily and it helps maintain dental health by stimulating jaw movement and cleaning teeth. Nevertheless, puppies of the toy poodle breed may have trouble chewing and digesting this food if they have dental problems or a sensitive stomach. Conversely, wet food may be more appealing to fussy eaters because of its quicker digestion and higher moisture content. More moisture is provided, which is great for toy poodles because they often become dehydrated. It can get pricey and go bad rapidly if left out for too long. Toy poodle puppies can do well on either dry kibble or wet food, or a mix of the two, but the best option will ultimately depend on your dog and his or her preferences and dietary needs. The changeover is expected to take around a week. As the puppy becomes older, they can transition to adult food by eating a combination of the two, with the amount of adult food increasing as the puppy food decreases. You should also be sure to provide your toy poodle with high-quality adult dog food. There are a number of potential causes if your Toy Poodle puppy is not eating. Puppies often lose their appetite at times of rapid development, teething, or stress. But, if your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day, you should take him to the vet to rule out any serious health problems. If your dog is picky eater, consider breaking up their meals into several smaller servings and giving them more often. You may also try moistening their kibble with warm water or chicken broth. You should also make sure your puppy gets lots of activity and drinks plenty of water. Toy poodle puppies, should not be freefed, or let to graze on food left out all day. Puppies have special dietary demands that must be met in order to guarantee they grow and develop normally. Overeating, obesity, and behavioral issues including food guarding and hostility are all possible outcomes of a freefeeding regime. Providing your toy poodle puppy with measured meals at set times throughout the day is advised. This will control their eating habits and make sure they have enough to eat to be healthy. This dry dog food is made for developing puppies who like smaller kibble. DHA from fish oil promotes brain, vision, and learning health. An antioxidant and vitamin E and C mix also boosts immunity. Pros DHA from fish oil for brain and eyes Healthy immune system form antioxidant and vitamin E and C No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives Comprehensive and Balanced Nutrition 2. For If you have a small-breed puppy like the Toy Poodle, this is the perfect supper for them. This dry dog food is designed for your growing small-breed pup. The first ingredient, farm-raised chicken, delivers quality protein to help your little companion grow strong muscles. It contains 22 essential nutrients, including omega-3 DHA, which improves cognition and makes your pup smarter and more trainable. For dogs under the age of 7 years, visit your vet every year. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat your dog for parasites and worms. Dogs that are over the age of 7 years should visit the vet every 6 months. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat for parasites and worms. Responsible dog owners get their pets vaccinated regularly, wormed, and treated for parasites such as fleas. Vaccination is essential even if you carry your toy poodle everywhere, or he rarely goes outside. This is because some infections such as parvovirus are caused by particularly hardy viruses that can attach to your shoes. Therefore, they can still pose a risk to even the most pampered of poodles. Talk with your vet about implanting a microchip in your dog. A microchip will help you track the dog if he gets lost. One of the health problems that toy poodles are prone to in later life is diabetes mellitus sugar diabetes. The hormones associated with estrous heat in the female can trigger diabetes. Therefore, it is wise to get your female toy poodle spayed. Toy poodles often live into their teens. Each time a bitch has a season, it weakens the lining of her womb and makes her more likely to develop a pyometra, which is a potentially life-threatening womb infection. Thus, spaying whilst she is fit and strong removes the possibility of needing emergency surgery in later life when anesthesia can pose a higher risk. Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell. Neutering a male is mainly done to prevent unwanted breeding and to control behavioral issues such as aggression or dominance. Talk with your vet to learn more. Small but resilient, toy poodles often live well into double figures. They do however tend to suffer from health issues as they age. Diabetes, poor teeth and heart disease are most common. These issues, once identified, can often be managed in order to help your pet live a long and active life. If you see any of these symptoms, speak to your vet. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Depending on age, poodles may require different levels of calories, protein, and other nutrients. Also, there are a variety of different types of dog food formulated for puppies and adult dogs. Therefore, feeding amounts may also vary based on life stage, lifestyle, size, and body condition. Toy poodle puppies need a lot of protein for their muscles, calcium for their bones, and calories for growth. How much to feed a toy poodle puppy is what we want to guide you on in this article. Too little or too much of any nutrients can harm your puppy. Maintain a good weight Sometimes, all you need to do is serve your toy poodle puppy with just the amount of food he needs. That is how you maintain a good weight for the puppy. When the pups are very young, they rarely get too thin or too fat. At this stage, they usually eat what they need, not more, not less, as long as the food is available. How to determine how much food to give to the puppy To determine how much to feed your toy poodle puppy, first find out the number of food calories the puppy needs for proper growth. Likewise, determine the amount of protein and calcium your puppy needs for proper muscle growth and bones to stay healthy. You should give any poodle under twelve months old dog food for puppies only. Be specific when choosing the right food. Make sure you take food that is labeled puppy food and is meant for toy dogs. The right frequency for feeding toy poodle puppies Puppies are often fed more than adult dogs because they still have small stomachs that can only accommodate small amounts of food, but that also need to be filled more frequently. Therefore, feed a toy poodle puppy small meals but regularly. The most preferred amount is four meals per day until the puppy is three months old. After that, feed your toy poodle puppy three meals daily until he turns six months old. Finally, give him two meals daily from when he is six months through adulthood. What to serve your puppy and how to do it Commercially dry kibble is one of the most popular options for toy poodle puppies. Besides being reasonably priced, it contains balanced nutrition for the puppies. Also, kibble is convenient and good for the little and delicate teeth. You can add a little warm water to the food to make it easy to eat and moisturize it. Also, you can add a little canned food to whatever food you are serving for extra flavor and nutrition. Another convenient feeding option is wet food. Canned food is majorly wet food and is digestible. Many of them are full of balanced nutrition. Give your puppy more wet nutritious food if he needs better hydration or has a problem with his teeth. Canned food usually contains 75 percent moisture, which is a lot more than the 6 to 10 percent for dry food. Final Verdict By now, you should know how much and how often you should feed a toy poodle puppy. It is a skill that, when learned, you can be an excellent owner or breeder. That is why you should take this information seriously. With the right amount of food every day, your toy poodle puppy will be strong, healthy, and growing appropriately. Related Posts. Like all other dogs, this tiny breed is omnivorous. Our domestic dogs have adapted to thrive on a diet made up of plant and animal matter. Toy Poodles need a balanced diet that contains appropriate levels of fat, protein, vitamins and minerals. Carbohydrates and water are also essential for the overall health and wellbeing of the poodle. Puppies and senior dogs need higher levels of protein than adults. The ideal level of protein for your dog will vary depending on their age and health. Fat A puppy needs 8 percent of their daily food in fat while adults need only 5 percent of fat every day. Fat is found in many types of animal protein including chicken skin and pork belly. Your Toy Poodle needs fat to maintain its hair, develop no cells and tissue, and get energy. Vitamins Not all dog foods contain the necessary vitamins your Toy Poodle needs. They are packed with vitamins such as A, B1, D, and E which keep our dogs healthy and fight off disease and infections. Minerals Your toy dog needs calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium in small amounts in their diet to stay healthy. They would usually get their daily needs from the plant matter in their commercial food. You should keep your Toy Poodle hydrated at all times. On average, your dog needs about one ounce of water a day. They might require more when they play outside on a hot summer day. Change the water every day and keep the water bowl full. Age, activity levels and health can all determine the best amount of food for your Toy Poodle. So, you should always take online feeding guides with a pinch of salt …not literally! Feeding charts are available on most commercial food packaging. This will be easier for them to chew and swallow than large pieces of kibble. Weight ranges can vary quite considerably, so some puppies will naturally need a lot more food than others. One way you can adjust your meal sizes is by working with your veterinarian. If you struggle to feel any definition, your puppy could benefit from smaller meal sizes. But, if their ribs are very prominent, they could benefit from slightly larger meal sizes. You should always work with your vet when adjusting meal sizes to ensure that everything is done in a safe and healthy way. But, since Poodles have so much curly fur, seeing them can be hard even if they are overly prominent! As they get a little older, this can decrease to 3 meals. And, when your puppy is at their adult size, this can decrease to two meals per day. How to Choose the Best Puppy Food? There are a lot of commercial options to choose from when searching for the best Poodle puppy food. You will find dry options, wet food, grain free varieties, limited ingredient recipes, and more. Some owners even choose to make homemade meals for their dogs, or raw diets. However, homemade diets are more likely to be nutritionally imbalanced, which can lead to health problems. Commercial food brands offer a lot of choice. There are pros and cons to every food type, so it can also help to speak to your veterinarian. For instance, wet food is often the most palatable, but it can be hard to use in training and has a shorter expiry date than other types. Grain free food is associated with some health-related concerns, but studies have determined the need for more research into a link, and this food type can be better for puppies with allergies. And, kibble food is easy to store and use during training, but can contain unwanted ingredients, like unnecessary fillers. Slowly substitute in your new food over the course of a week, until the old food is completely removed. Doing this too quickly can result in stomach upset and digestive issues. You will also need to transition to an adult food variety when your puppy has stopped growing. Toy Poodles will often finish growing somewhere between 6 and 8 months. Miniature Poodles can take between 8 and 12 months. And Standard Poodles can take up to 18 months. The transition to an adult food should also be gradual, taking space over the course of a week. Is My Poodle a Healthy Weight? However, all Poodles are different. They will grow at different rates and will have different healthy adult weights. They will be able to help you make any suitable adjustments if your puppy needs to increase or decrease their weight to remain healthy. Obesity and excess weight can cause and worsen some serious health problems in our pet dogs. They can help to adjust meal sizes where necessary. And, they can look for any underlying causes to high appetite levels in your Poodle. This often happens when people first bring their puppy home, leading to panic and stress! However, puppies can also feel stress and fear when moving to their new homes. And, this can cause a loss of appetite. Or, if they think something better might be on offer. For instance, if you tend to feed them table scraps, they might leave their food to try and get more tasty treats. Doing so will prevent obesity and weight gain. Completing all of your training in the morning will pose the same problems as feeding your puppy a very large meal first thing in the morning. Another benefit of this is that your puppy will be extra hungry and motivated to work for their food if training is before each mealtime. How Much to Feed a Poodle Puppy — A Summary All Poodles are different from one another, so the amount of food they need each day and at individual meal times will vary. But, they usually need some adjusting. Have you got any tips for raising a healthy Poodle puppy? Let us know in the comments! Readers Also Liked.

By Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. Today, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are in the herding breed group, which means they are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence, loyalty, and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue. This large dog breed has an average weight ranging from 65—90 pounds. They are typically 22—26 inches tall with a life expectancy of 10—12 years. Caring for a German Shepherd German Shepherds are incredibly active dogs that require intense training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble physically and mentally. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents. Socialization and consistent training will be essential when a German Shepherd is a puppy. This will help them to grow out of unruly behaviors such as nipping and jumping. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds a lot. They will also typically go through a molting, which is a period of excessive shedding, one to two times a year. German Shepherd Health Issues While German Shepherds have a long life expectancy for a large breed dog, they are prone to several health problems. A trustworthy breeder will screen both male and female dogs being bred for health conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. German Shepherds commonly also get gastric dilation and volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat, as well as cancer, allergies, heart disease, and a few other conditions. Pet parents of German Shepherds should be highly educated on the symptoms to look for, as early detection is the key to a good prognosis for any serious condition. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic disorder that affects the spinal cord, slowly causing paralysis of the back legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind end and difficulty standing up. Watch your dog carefully for signs of pain and discomfort that come on gradually rather than suddenly. Check their claws at least once a month to watch for signs of uneven wear which would indicate a subtle lameness. There is no treatment for this condition, but physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and protect their ability to use their legs. While there is no cure, you can test for this condition using a DNA-based blood test submitted to the University of Florida or the University of Missouri. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause lifelong pain in the front limbs. Hip dysplasia is another degenerative joint disease that affects the hind end. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in because of this disease process. The treatment for all degenerative joint diseases includes weight loss, reduced activity, joint protection supplements, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery. Cancer Cancer can develop in German Shepherds at any age, but usually occurs later in life. Common cancers include hemangiosarcoma and bone, lung, and intestinal cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that is most often detected in blood-rich organs such as the spleen and the heart. The signs of hemangiosarcoma are usually related to internal bleeding, with symptoms such as weakness, white or pale gums, trouble breathing, a distended abdomen, and collapse. Other signs are usually nonspecific and indicate overall malaise, including lethargy, panting, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. Depending on the extent of the cancer, treatment plans can include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Bloat Gastric Dilation and Volvulus Bloat, or gastric dilation and volvulus GDV is a sudden life-threatening condition when the stomach enlarges with gas bloat and then twists upon itself GDV. This happens commonly in deep-chested, large-breed dogs such as German Shepherds. To limit the risk of GDV, German Shepherds should wait at least 30 minutes to one hour after eating to resume exercising. Another way to help prevent your German Shepherd from developing a life-threatening GDV would be via gastropexy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach prevents the stomach from being able to twist upon itself. Allergies Allergies in German Shepherds can be first seen with symptoms such as itchy skin, skin infections , ear infections , or digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. A thorough medical history and physical examination, diagnostic testing of skin and ears, blood work, and fecal tests are warranted if you suspect that your dog has allergies. Allergies in dogs can be treated by avoiding the cause and the allergen and managing the symptoms that exist with diet therapy and medications. Heart Disease Heart disease, specifically DCM dilated cardiomyopathy , valvular disease, and heart murmurs, can be common in German Shepherds. A special diet should also be considered to restrict sodium intake and to increase the amount of certain amino acids to promote heart health. Dogs with significant heart disease should not be pushed to exercise beyond their limits. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a digestive health issue that occurs when the cells of the pancreas do not produce enzymes and hormones normally. The most common symptom is weight loss, despite your pet having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms of EPI include soft stool or diarrhea; excessive gas; desire to eat feces and other unusual objects; flaky skin; or rough coat. Once the pancreas is damaged to the point that symptoms of EPI develop, you must give your dog pancreatic enzyme supplements and other treatments for the rest of their life. Nevertheless, with proper management, your dog can still live a happy life with this condition. Pannus Pannus, or superficial keratitis, is an immune-mediated painful eye condition that can cause blindness if not managed properly. It occurs more often in dogs that live at high altitudes, those with increased exposure to UV light, and in areas with severe air pollution. Keeping dogs indoors during the sunniest part of the day, providing a doghouse shelter, or trying a specialty pair of doggie sunglasses like Rex Specs may prove very helpful in preventing this issue. Most of these conditions have a genetic component and can be avoid by good breeding and preventive screening practices. They require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Offering table food and animal bones should be avoided, as they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia, and they also have a much higher fat content than dog food. High-fat foods can also cause pancreatitis. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd In general, puppies should be fed 3—4 times per day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food your German Shepherd eats. You can ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. There are some theories that German Shepherds that are fed smaller, more frequent meals have a lower incidence of bloat and stomach problems. How to Feed a German Shepherd Although there is a genetic component, science shows that rapid long bone growth in puppies such as German Shepherds and other large- and giant-breed dogs contributes to development of joint and bone conditions. Rapid bone growth is suspected to be caused by overfeeding and calcium supplementation. German Shepherds that are fed free-choice or overfed are at higher risk of rapid bone growth. Maintaining lean body weight will also help to decrease the rate of bone growth. Calcium supplements and adult dog foods rich in calcium should never be given to German Shepherd puppies under 6 months of age, as they cannot absorb calcium appropriately when they are that young. Conditions caused by rapid long bone growth and excess calcium supplementation can include: Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondrosis dissecans of the shoulder, knee, wrists, and ankles. This is improper growth and blood supply in a joint, which requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD. This is inflammation of the bone under the growth plate; it can cause severe joint swelling, pain, fever, anorexia, lameness, and not wanting to move. This is an inflammation of the long bones and associated blood vessels. Joint swelling is uncommon, but the symptoms are similar to HOD. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids high-quality fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis , which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics such as Purina Calming Care can be helpful not just for digestive issues, but with minor behavioral issues as well. Digestive enzymes come in powdered form to assist dogs who have pancreatic issues, such as German Shepherds with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Other vitamin and mineral supplements are generally not needed for healthy puppies and adults, as they get all they need from their AAFCO-approved diet daily. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. They are known to be gentle family dogs and loyal protectors of those they trust. This loyalty can make German Shepherds seem more standoffish around strangers. It does take them some time to gain the trust of other people and other pets. German Shepherds are a very active and athletic breed that require a ton of exercise for both their physical and mental health. Without exercise they will develop unfavorable behaviors, due to irritation and pent-up energy. Controlled leash walks and supervised free play in safe, fenced-in areas should be started when they are puppies. Keeping a German Shepherd on a leash at all times when in public places is a good rule of thumb, as even the most well-trained dog can be distracted and not follow regular commands, leading to a possible confrontation. These results should be provided to a pet parent by the breeder of the German Shepherd before the dog is purchased. Not all temperament and behavioral issues are evident in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether a dog will be free of these problems. Find a trustworthy breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. German Shepherd Behavior German Shepherds, like other herding dogs, tend to be on the nippy side. They have very powerful jaws, and unfortunately, they frequently bite. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. The German Shepherd dog is a pack animal. They need you to be the leader of the pack, providing structure and guidance. The key to success is consistency and practice; you will get the behavior you reward. German Shepherds from working lines have an extremely strong drive to work and may be more dog than most people can or want to handle. German Shepherds are very smart companions and exceptional workers. This helps you build the right foundation for your puppy to evolve into a well-adapted and well-mannered adult dog. Conversely, when your dog barks at you to pet them, do not start petting them until they sit down and quietly wait for you to do so. Soon they will learn that they get what they desire without the excessive, unnecessary behavior. German Shepherds thrive on consistency, positive reinforcement, and a reward system, such as a treats or toys to help strengthen the human-animal bond. They become very bonded to all members of the family and will be willing to participate in many family activities. Fun Activities for German Shepherd Herding. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Degenerative myelopathy is a fatal, chronic, progressive, degenerative disease of the spinal cord, affecting several breeds of dog including the GSD. In time, it leads to complete paralysis in all limbs tetraparesis. To understand the disease process some knowledge of the anatomy of the spinal cord and nervous system is needed. The nervous system is comprised of the central nervous system — the brain and spinal cord — and the peripheral nerves, which connect to the spinal cord throughout its length. It receives messages from sensors throughout the body sensory functions , processes this information, decides what changes need to occur and then sends out messages to glands and muscles to make these changes motor functions. The spinal cord runs along the length of the spine, which protects it. The spine is divided into 5 different regions — cervical neck , thoracic chest , lumbar lower back , sacral pelvic and coccygeal tail. The spinal cord is similarly split into regions and correspondingly labelled. The spinal cord is comprised of two major types of tissue: white and grey matter. The white matter contains the axons — long wire-like fibres - of the sensory and motor neurons that carry nerve impulses either to or from the brain, the grey the cell bodies of the neurons. The axons of the motor neurons, that start in the brain, are often called the upper motor neurons UMNs , and their connections with the cell bodies of the nerves cells that go on to form the peripheral nerves the lower motor neurones LMNs. To increase the speed with which axons can transmit their impulse the electrical message that they carry , they are insulated much like electrical wires in our homes. The insulating layer is called the myelin sheath and it is because of its fat content, that the tissues of the spinal cord that it makes up appear white. In DM there is a slow, progressive degeneration of the white matter of the thoracic section of the spinal cord, with loss of both myelin and axons Shell .Abnormal structures called cytoplasmic inclusions are also observed within the diseased tissue when it is examined under the microscope this can only be done at post mortem Rusbridge no date. The degeneration of the spinal cord tissue appears to be caused by the action of excessive amounts of damaging reactive oxygen species molecules ROS : biochemicals that react with and damage the components of cells, causing oxidative or free radical injury. High numbers of ROS occur with this condition, due to a mutation in the gene which codes for the production of the superoxide dismutase-1 SOD1 enzyme, which is produced by cells to help break down ROS and limit any damage they might cause Awano et al .DM in dogs is comparable to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS a progressive, neurodegenerative disease of humans Awano et al .Prior to the discovery of the SOD1 gene mutation, possible causes of DM were suggested as genetic, nutritional Averill , Williams et al , or immunological Barclay and Haines , Waxman et al .The first signs are typically seen at around 8 to 9 years of age and involve hindlimb ataxia swaying when moving. This may be asymmetrical worse on either the right or left side. The dog may also have difficulty getting up and its hindlimb nails may become scuffed to the point of bleeding. DM has an insidious gradual onset and can easily be misdiagnosed as hip dysplasia or other orthopaedic problems, which are also common in GSDs. Unlike many other of these conditions, DM seems painless Cherubini et al .Owners may notice the hindlegs crossing over as the dog walks. In this stage of the disease, it is mainly the UMNs of the spinal cord that are affected, along with sensory nerves. Spinal reflexes, when tested, often seem to be intact but the dog seems to be unable to sense exactly where the hindlimbs are or place them accurately - hence the scuffing of the nails and ataxic gait. With progression of the disease, loss of motor functions and signs of LMN dysfunction manifest in the hindlimbs. These show as weakness leading to inability to stand and paralysis in the hindlimbs. In time, the muscles of the hindlegs waste away. Most owners elect for euthanasia once paraplegia has occurred; however, if allowed to progress, the disease will ascend up the spinal cord to affect the forelegs leading to tetraplegia loss of use of all four limbs Awano et al .The rate at which the disease progresses is often not uniform rather it is characterised by periods of slow progression followed by rapid changes Cherubini et al .Urinary and faecal incontinence may occur Shell and trauma to nails and the hindlimbs or pressure sores may occur secondary to the paresis loss or impaired movement , paralysis and incontinence. There is currently no effective treatment Cherubini et al , Rusbridge no date although physiotherapy has been shown to prolong the time some dogs can remain mobile Kathmann et al .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact DM is itself not a painful disease Cherubini et al , Shell ; however, affected dogs may be caused distress by being unable to function or behave as normal. Trauma may also occur to nails and the skin of the hind limbs as sensation and loss of function progresses. Once paralysed, these dogs have long-term care needs which many owners find difficult and some dogs will be euthanased because of this. Ultimately, when earlier euthanasia is declined, DM leads to an inability to carry on any kind of normal life and finally to death. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Degenerative myelopathy usually appears in dogs from 8 or 9 years of age Cherubini et al , Rusbridge no date , however, animals as young as 6 months can be affected Cherubini et al .The condition is progressive from the start although the rate of progression of the disease may not be uniform. Most owners of affected dogs elect to have them euthanased within 12 months of the onset of signs, often when they become paraplegic. Deterioration to death can take over 3 years Awano et al .Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Degenerative myelopathy was first identified in GSDs. The commonest cause of progressive hindlimb dysfunction in older, large-breed dogs Wheeler , it was originally thought to only affect GSDs, this is now known not to be the case. Wahl et al consider it a major genetic disease afflicting GSDs. The exact percentage of GSDs to be affected is currently unknown although researchers at Missouri University suggest that a relatively high proportion of individuals from the following breeds: GSD, Boxer, Pembroke corgi, Chesapeake Bay retriever and Rhodesian ridgeback have the predisposing mutated gene and that many of these genetically-affected individuals will go on to manifest the disease. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are German Shepherd Dogs Alsatians Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around , Return to top 5. Diagnosis A definitive diagnosis of DM can only be made after death by microscopic examination of the spinal cord Cherubini et al .A tentative diagnosis of DM, whilst the dog is alive, can be made by a veterinary surgeon through elimination of all other possible causes of the signs. This will include the need for a full physical and neurological examination examination of the nervous system by means of tests to check out the health of various nerve pathways. It may also include blood tests, spinal x-rays including myelography x-rays after injection of a dye into the spinal canal , analysis of cerebrospinal fluid the fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord , CT computed tomography scans and MRI magnetic resonance imaging scans, the most useful diagnostic test for imaging the brain and spinal cord. The tentative diagnosis is made if the results of all tests including the MRI scans are normal, though the CSF analysis may reveal a high level of protein Cherubini et al .As DM is most often seen in older dogs it is not uncommon for them to have concurrent disease which often will cause abnormalities on these tests and may complicate the diagnostic process. It is also possible for osteoarthritis of the hips or spine to develop secondary to DM due to uneven weight bearing in the hindlimbs as the disease progresses Cherubini et al .Return to top 6. Genetics Recently a gene connected to the development of DM has been identified. Dogs which are homozygous for the mutated gene SOD1, i. Currently, not all the animals identified with a pair of the abnormal genes have developed the disease. It is not known if they will go on to develop the disease later or if other unknown risk factors are necessary for disease development in these individuals College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, no date. Animals with one abnormal gene appear to be healthy carriers i. The problem has therefore been categorised as an autosomal recessive disorder with incomplete penetrance i. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? DNA testing can now be performed to identify animals at risk of developing the disease and carrier animals. All animals should be tested prior to purchase and breeding. Return to top 8. The researchers who developed this test believe that careful use of it could help decrease the incidence of DM in affected breeds although they feel this occurs slowly, over many generations College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, no date. Elimination of a recessive gene with incomplete penetrance from a breed is not straightforward if its prevalence is high because removing all carrier animals, that possess a copy of the gene, may significantly affect the number of animals suitable to breed from, and hence the size of the gene pool. Careful breeding of carrier animals to known healthy non-carrier individuals is recommended Bell , with slow replacement of carrier breeding animals with non-carriers over time. If, as suspected, the mutated gene is common in GSDs, halting breeding from all carrier animals may significantly affect the number of animals suitable to breed from, and hence the size of the gene pool. This could lead to excessive inbreeding and the appearance of other unwanted genetic diseases of which there are many. To avoid such a problem, the careful breeding of carrier animals with non-carriers, either from within the breed or from outside the breed, seems necessary. To enable the elimination of the gene whilst minimising the risks of other genetic problems emerging due to greater levels of inbreeding, Bell recommends that, over time, breeders slowly replace carrier breeding animals with non-carriers. Return to top 9. Jul 22, Share We view German Shepherds as intelligent, loyal, and brave dogs who can take on even the toughest of tasks. But like all other dogs, German Shepherds have their fair share of health issues that slowly arise as they start to age. The genes get passed on from litter to litter and is rather painful since it is a malformation in the hip joint. Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay 2. Elbow Dysplasia Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia affects many larger dog breeds from a line of poorly bred ancestors. Instead of the issue with the hip, the same problem occurs in the elbows, and it can vary from mild to severe symptoms. It usually makes it uncomfortable to walk and, unfortunately, not much can be done once a dog is diagnosed. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV Also called bloat , GDV is a serious issue that occurs when dogs eat food too quickly and then participate in too much physical activity. The gas builds up in the stomach and the pressure from the bloating makes it difficult for dogs to breathe. Some dogs go into shock or eat grass to try to vomit. This is a life-threatening condition, and your dogs should be taken to the vet immediately if you think they might have it. Try to feed your German Shepherds three small meals a day to prevent the problem. The signs for diabetes include dry mouth, fatigue, excessive eating and urinating, and swollen feet. Image Credit: Flashieeh, Shutterstock 5. Epilepsy German Shepherds are known for having seizure disorders. Even though epilepsy is incurable, there are many ways to help prevent the symptoms. Hemophilia Hemophilia has occurred in German Shepherds due to a long line of inbreeding. Even the smallest of cuts can be serious for a dog. This disease is more common in German Shepherds than many other dog breeds, so be careful when out exercising with them. Cataracts Another health issue that your German Shepherd might get as they age is cataracts. This issue is usually easy to tell when it is happening because you start to see that their eyes look a little more cloudy or they start running into things more often. If they progress, it becomes challenging for dogs to see anything at all. Image Credit: Pauline Loroy, Unsplash 8. Degenerative Disc Disease is common in large animals, but it can even start to manifest when the dogs are still young. A lot of breeders try to avoid this issue. Get your German Shepherd checked for spinal abnormalities from when they are puppies to keep this in check. Panosteitis German Shepherds grow very quickly and sometimes limp a lot as they mature from 5 to 14 months old. It is more common in German Shepherds because they have many stomach issues like Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. Of course, some breeds have fewer than others, but a lot of them can be prevented with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Over time, visits to the vet can really add up. If you're looking for a good pet insurance plan that won't break the bank, you may want to look at Lemonade. This company offers adjustable plans customized to your pet's needs. However, this breed does have several common health issues that owners should be aware of. The more extreme conditions are a result of inbreeding, so responsible breeders take special care to trace the genealogy before breeding. The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 10 to 12 years old, but certain conditions might shorten that. Here is a look at some of the most common types of health problems that German Shepherds have and how to recognize them. Diabetes Diabetes is not something that we think of when we think of canine ailments. However, it is not unheard of for German Shepherds to be diagnosed with this health problem. If your dog has one or more of these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean that they have diabetes. However, they should be checked out to ensure that they do not have diabetes or another serious illness. However, it is much more serious than the average bloat that humans experience after eating too much. This is an extremely painful experience for your dog and also very dangerous. The condition can sometimes come on very quickly. Some of the symptoms that your dog may experience with GDV include: Gums are pale or almost white in color Excessive drooling Gagging and retching. If this happens on a weekend or some other time when your regular vet is closed, look to see if there is an emergency animal hospital nearby. With these conditions, dogs will start to go downhill very quickly. In order to give them the best chance at survival, treatment must begin quickly. Perform an X-Ray to get a better look and see if the stomach is twisted. Perform surgery. The only way to fix a twisted stomach is to perform a surgery. Depending on what goes on during the surgery, your dog will need a lot of time to recover from such an invasive operation. While your dog is recovering, it is imperative that he or she gets a lot of rest and refrain from physical activity. Your dog should be monitored closely for the first few days. If they start to vomit or show any signs that their health is deteriorating, you should call the vet immediately. Hip Dysplasia This is a common problem for German Shepherds and other large dog breeds. This is a genetic disorder that usually happens while the German Shepherd puppy is still in the growth stage. The hip socket is more shallow than usual and it causes the hip joint to become loose, which can cause a lot of pain for the dog. Sometimes, hip dysplasia can go unnoticed, but over time, it can cause a dog to develop other problems, such as arthritis and muscular issues. Some of the most common signs that a dog is experiencing hip dysplasia include: Limping for seemingly no reason Hopping when running Popping sounds coming from the joint Slow to stand up Slow to lay down Difficulty getting on and off beds, couches, and other furniture If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it is a good idea to schedule a vet visit for your dog. There are a few different treatment options available for dogs with hip dysplasia, including surgery. Your vet will examine your dog and determine the best course of treatment. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow Dysplasia is just like hip dysplasia, except for the fact that it affects the elbows and not the hips. The symptoms are also going to be similar. You may notice your dog limping or not wanting to run. Just like with hip dysplasia, surgery is also a treatment option. But sometimes, a vet will try to just manage the pain if the dysplasia is not severe. Cataracts Sometimes it seems like these dogs grow up so fast. In truth, when German Shepherds stop growing is at 18 months. As German Shepherds age, some have been known to develop cataracts. This is the same eye disorder that humans can get as well. It is pretty easy to tell if your older dog has cataracts as you will be able to see a noticeable white film develop on the lens of their eyeball. If left untreated, cataracts can cause your older dog to go completely blind in that eye. Another thing to note is that German Shepherd skin issues are fairly common. This breed is prone to yeast dermatitis, moist dermatitis, and allergy dermatitis. Make sure to have these conditions treated by a vet as soon as you spot on your pup. Having a German Shepherd can be a rewarding experience. They are a playful, protective, and loyal dog breed. As long as you stay vigilant and monitor any unusual symptoms, you should be able to have your playful pooch around for years to come. Check out Vetericyn if there are products that can alleviate the symptoms of any of these conditions. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: Pet MD. Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperosmolar Coma in Dogs. Canine elbow dysplasia. Cataracts in Dogs.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. I have owned both. They are remarkably similar. Goldens are far less suspicious and more outgoing. But the GSD is also very sweet and less likely to hound your guests. Goldens are only good at scaring intruders with their size and bark but unlikely to do anything about it. While the GSD may actually do something about it. Both shed but in my experience goldens shed much more contrary to what many GSD owners say. Goldens produce hair tumbleweeds weeds while GSD produce much less hair. You can actually get done brushing a GSD but you can never be done brushing a golden retriever. Pick a golden if you want a dog that will be friendly with no work. Love both of these breeds. Superior dogs for sure. October 25, at am Hey Evelyn, hope you can get your own dog! While every dog is different, golden retrievers are typically sociable. Make sure to socialize your dog early. Early socialization is one of the best ways to create a sociable dog! Sammy February 22, at am I would say that the two dogs are both really intelligent but I would rather chose the German shepherd because they are really kind and loyal. I have one of my one that is 6 months and she is already trained to sit lay down roll over play dead and stop. German shepherd is a really good dog!!!! JIll Michalski August 20, at pm Hi. Golden retrievers are also very kind. My golden was trained, gives paw, sits and lies down at a very early age. Do your research. They are both adorable dogs, depending on what you are willing to put in is what you get out of it. Connie March 23, at pm I have a white German Shepherd. He sheds a lot but nothing unreasonable. High energy and extremely playful, easy to train, but he is very suspicious of guests. He picks and chooses who he likes. I am looking to getting a dog in our family but dont have to deal with a lot of shedding. I understand dogs need to shed for many reasons and therefore wanting to know which is easier to clean, maintain,could decrease shedding, and could be inside my house without hair lying around the floor. The fur or hair was easily able to clean and spot which in comparison to the German Shepard is hard to clean and spot depending where the dog lays around and the color of the fur. I am just seeking into finding answers which breed I should get. I hope you guys can reach out to me and give me answers which fits more to my problem. They are highly intelligent as well and easy to train. We are going to move to our family farm in Minnesota as soon as my mom can find a job. We have a little family, its just me, my mom, my dad, and our tuxedo kitten Oreo. We do not know if we should get a GSD or a goldie. I have a few questions; 1. Who gets along with kittens better 2. Who sheds less 3. Who loves their humans the most 4. Who would follow their humans and take a walk with them with no leash? For your first question, a Golden would probably get along better with a kitten. German Shepherds have high prey drives and may chase the kitten, but either one could get along with it if they are introduced while the dog is a puppy. Make sure to keep the puppy on a leash during their first meeting, or keep them in separate rooms with a baby gate between them so they can get used to each other with no possibility for a fight. Make sure there is room for the cat to get away from the dog just in case there ever is a fight or the dog attacks the kitten. As for the shedding, both dogs will shed a lot. I had a golden mix and her hair was everywhere. Between loving their humans the most, both dogs would be great. German Shepherds are extremely loyal and would protect their owners from anything. They will bond to the family and be suspicious of outsiders. Golden retrievers are extremely friendly. They will love the family and love other people. If you want a dog that will love you and protect, get a GSD. No-leash walking needs to be trained. Some dogs do it naturally but they need to learn not to wander and when to come back. My golden mix was also trained to walk off-leash. You can research how to train them to walk off-leash, but you MUST train them how to walk on the leash first. Waking them on the leash will teach them how close they should stay to you and teach them how to match your pace. For the kitten question, a Goldie might be better. GSDs can have a high prey drive so they might chase the kitten, but a Goldie might too. You need to socialize them early. Make sure the puppy is on a leash for their first meeting, and keep them in different rooms separated by a baby gate so they can get used to each other with no possibility of a fight occurring. Shedding- both will shed. Brushing them a few times a week will help control the shedding and keep more of the fur off your floors. If you want a dog that will love their humans, either one will be perfect. However, they are still different. GSDs are extremely loyal and will bond closely with the family. They can have aggression issues but this should be no problem with proper training. They love everyone. If you want a dog that will love the family AND protect them, a German Shepherd is the dog to go with. As for no-leash walking, this will be trained. My German Shepherd mix and Golden retrievers mix are both trained to walk off leash. You can look up training methods to teach this. This will teach them how close they need to stay to you and not to wander or run away. Please teach them to walk on a leash first, and gradually release them for short periods of time once you are confident they will not run. I really hope this helps and you enjoy raising whichever breed you choose. GSDs are more intelligent than golden retrievers, meaning they are easier to train and excel at many jobs. GSDs are very protective of their owners. Also golden retrievers can pick up a lot of inappropriate habits when greeting visitors. GSDs are far more obedient and reliable. Both dogs are very good with children and other animals but, I would recommend the GSD because they are far more gentle and adaptable, but goldens can be a little boisterous. Goldens have high maintenance coat and shed far more than the GSDs. GSDs have medium maintenance coat, making it easier to groom. In conclusion, both are superior and lovable companions but, the GSD german shepherd is easier to care for and is more capable than the golden retriever. Two puppies, a 17 month old GSD and a 4 month old Golen. Great dogs! I like a lot of you am just a dog person. Stella is my 3rd GSD. More than what dog is a better family pet I want to talk about YOU as the pack leader. I think a avarage trained or better GSD is the best dog ever! In no way are they agressive just …. I dont know a little stand offish. If a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd? I want the dog to grow up with my little one. And to protect her n love her. Which one is the best one? Mustafa March 23, at pm The german shepherd is far more protective than the golden retriever thanks: Bradley July 20, at am If you want a dog that would love and play the goldie is the way to go. They are eager to please and very helpful. While they do shed quite a bit if you brush them a few times a week it wont be a big deal. They are also more likely to lick an intruder then hurt it but if you treat the dog right and it sees anyone in your house trying to harm your or your daughter you can count on it to be right there and getting that person away. Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. Golden retrievers are sweet, playful, family dogs. They have beautiful coats that can range from cream , to gold, to red , and have floppy ears and feathered legs and tails. German Shepherd Overview German shepherds are herding dogs that like to work. Like golden retrievers, the traits that made them great herding dogs make them both great and occasionally difficult family companions. Energy Level Golden retrievers: Golden retrievers have a lot of energy. They need hours of exercise per day and need to be both physically stimulated by playing games like fetch and tug and mentally stimulated training and puzzle toys help here. German shepherds: German shepherds are high-energy dogs, too. Both dogs have a ton of energy, so no matter which one you go with, expect to do a lot of training, playing, and working to avoid potential behavior problems and keep your dog happy. Golden retrievers: Goldens are some of the best family dogs around. German shepherds: German shepherds make great family dogs, too. But if you have kids, golden retrievers will probably be a better choice to go with. Are They Easy To Train? However, they can be easily distracted, which may make training a little more difficult. Conclusion Although both dogs are relatively easy to train, German shepherds are the winners here. Temperament Golden retrievers are some of the sweetest, most loving dogs out there. They like to spend time with their families and are very playful and often goofy. They love just about everything and everyone. German shepherds: German shepherds are loyal and loving with their families, but usually a little more suspicious or aloof when it comes to strangers. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Well, you get the German Shepherd Lab mix, a lovable crossbreed with all the great personality traits you could ever want in a family dog. Also known as Lab Shepherd mixes or Shepradors, these mixed breed canines are highly sought after. The parent breeds are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Like all crossbreeds, Shepradors combine the physical and personality traits of their parents, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion. Because they are a designer dog , there are no established breeding guidelines or standards. Oftentimes, pedigree information is scarce as well, creating a lot of unknowns. Canines are fully capable of crossbreeding on their own. In fact, many of the purebred dogs we know today are a result of centuries of careful breeding. As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed is a direct result of breeding purebred German Shepherds with Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers have a very long history that dates back all the way to the s. Back then, they were working dogs that often helped out fishermen. Eventually, these dogs made their way to England where they became companions for European royalty. German Shepherds were working dogs, too. However, their main job was to herd sheep and other livestock for farmers. Today, Labradors and German Shepherds are very popular the world over. .Though, they are popular for very different reasons. Typically, Labs are known for their companionship. They make great family pets and are often used as guide dogs for those with disabilities. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are revered for their athleticism and intelligence. German Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament The beauty of mixed breed dogs is that they take on traits from both of their parents. German Shepradors are a perfect example of this. These dogs are a joy to be around. Whether that required physical work or simply good behavior, these pups are up for the task! Like all dogs, German Shepherds and their subsequent crossbreed are products of their environment. Shepradors make great family dogs. The combination of intelligent thinking and loyalty can prove to be useful in a home setting. Your watchdog will do all they can to protect your home while still being down for cuddles. However, helping your pup grow up to be obedient and well-behaved is manageable. You see, these dogs are very intelligent. In fact, some might say that they are too intelligent for their own good. This mainly comes from the German Shepherd side of the dog. German Shepherds are notorious for being stubborn. Shepradors can take on that personality trait, making the training process a bit more challenging. They may require more time and patience to truly understand things. Another issue you might encounter with German Shepherd mixes is the need for regular mental stimulation. Because they are so intelligent, you must constantly challenge their minds to keep them happy. Like all dogs, Shepradors do best when positive reinforcement is the training method of choice. While dominance-based training used to be the go-to, several studies have shown that punishments do more harm than good. German Shepherd mixes thrive when you use a reward system. Showering your dog with praise and providing plenty of treats is the best way to instill the training techniques. Despite all of this, you may see pups with vastly different characteristics. Genetics is not an exact science. Dominant genes from one parent dog may take over, causing the puppy to look more like one breed than the other. As a result, the crossbreed is going to fall into that same category. You can use information about their parents for reference, but several factors will contribute to their true adult size. Generally, males can weigh upwards of 88 pounds when fully grown. They will stand between 22 and 26 inches at the withers. This is the point between the shoulder blades of the dog. Females are typically smaller than males. You may come across females as small as 35 pounds. Though, most will be around 70 to 80 pounds. As for height, females tend to be between 20 and 24 inches at the withers. Both of the parent breeds are pretty athletic, so most mixed pups will be as well. They fall somewhere in the middle. Depending on their activity levels, you might notice strong muscle development on their hind legs. These dogs usually have wide snouts and dark noses. Their eyes are large and brown. Some pups may have light eyes, but this is quite rare. Genetic variations in the parent breeds can lead to lighter eyes, but a vast majority are going to have big brown eyes. One characteristic where you will see a lot of variation among these dogs is the ears. Most Labs have large ears that flop down over the sides of the head Meanwhile, perky triangular ears are one of the most defining traits of the German Shepherds. The interesting thing about the ears is that you will have to wait and see whether they stand tall or flop down. Puppies are born with soft and fluffy ears. As they grow older, the cartilage in their ears may or may not strengthen to help them stand up. Some pups even have a combination of the two ear styles! Colors Coat colors can vary across the board with these pups. German Shepherds have an iconic tri-color coat. Distinct patterns of gold, black, and white cover the body. The most common is gold. However, black and pure-white Labs exist as well. They may have multi-colored coats or solid ones. Lifespan The average lifespan for a German Shepherd Lab mix is between 10 and 12 years. This falls in line with the life expectancy of the parent breeds. Generally, larger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. Many factors will affect how much time these dogs have. Health issues and a poor lifestyle can cut that lifespan short. On the same token, extremely healthy pups are fully capable of living past 12 years of age. Possible Health Issues Like all dogs, Shepradors are not immune to disease and health problems. In fact, they may be susceptible to more issues. The problem with mixing breeds is that it opens up the possibilities of health complications in the future. Hereditary problems from both parents can be passed to the puppy. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are known to suffer from a few different ailments. Here are the most common health concerns to be wary of. Dysplasia is a musculoskeletal condition that often affects dogs later in life. However, it takes years to develop and can be triggered by issues as a young pup. Take hip dysplasia for example. Hip dysplasia can cause debilitating pain. Many dogs who suffer from it have a hard time standing up. They may exhibit signs of extreme weakness in the hind legs, resulting in a noticeably different posture. The hip sockets become malformed, causing mobility issues with the hip joint. While some dogs are born with it, poor development as a puppy can exacerbate the problem. There are treatment options for hip and elbow dysplasia. Veterinarians can perform surgery early on to correct the problem and provide relief. If your dog is already suffering from it, physical therapy and joint supplements can provide relief from pain. Bloat Contrary to popular belief, bloat is not an innocent gas problem with dogs. It occurs when dogs eat too fast or exert physical exercise too soon after eating. Excess air is swallowed, filling the stomach. Eventually, the stomach can twist on itself. This restricts blood flow throughout the body. Provide small meals and prevent your dog from playing for at least 30 minutes. To control fast eating, you can utilize slow-feeding bowls or puzzle toys. They create an obstacle that forces the dog to eat slower than normal, which can do a lot to prevent GDV. Ocular Issues Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are pretty common with both parent breeds. The tissue within the eye can degenerate over time. This causes vision loss. From there, you can provide supplements or foods rich in beta carotene to slow its progression. Diet and Exercise Requirements Shepherd Labrador mixes are incredibly active dogs. They love nothing more than playing and getting tons of exercise. To make matters worse, a lack of exercise can turn into a lasting problem. You need to start your pup on the right foot and establish a healthy lifestyle right off the bat. Go for runs and toss chew toys around the yard. You can break up exercise time in manageable chunks throughout the day to make things easier. As long as you get those 90 minutes in, your dog should have no problem staying healthy. When it comes to diet, you must be just as vigilant! These dogs have insatiable appetites. However, you need to ensure that their food is meeting all of their nutritional needs. It should use wholesome proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. The dog food should also have complex carbs and healthy fats like fish oil. Steer clear of anything that has artificial ingredients or unnecessary fillers. Those foods will do more harm than good. The goal is to provide your dog with muscle-building protein that will keep their body in good shape. As a good rule of thumb, dogs will need about 30 calories of food for each pound of body weight. This usually amounts to about 4 cups of dry kibble a day. That said, foods can vary dramatically when it comes to nutritional density. We recommend splitting their caloric requirements into two small meals a day. One meal in the morning and one in the evening will keep their energy levels stable as they go about their active lifestyles. Plus, splitting the meals will help to avoid issues like bloat. However, thick coats need a bit of extra work. GSDs have double costs. The outer layer of hair is thinner and easier to manage. Meanwhile, the inner coat is thick and dense. It provides insulation in those cold winter months. German Shepherd Lab mixes can inherit that thick coat. They will go through shedding cycles a couple of times a year, resulting in a mess of fur throughout your home! With regular brushings, you can keep the fallout to manageable levels while keeping your pup clean. These pups make great family dogs. They get along just fine with kids as long as you socialize them early on. As always, you should never leave your dog alone with young kids. These crossbred dogs are fully capable of attacking people, so you should exercise caution and always keep a watchful eye. They should know not to pull their tail or agitate the dog in any way. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes good guard dogs? Shepradors make great guard dogs. Plus, they tend to be a bit suspicious of strangers. Are these dogs aggressive? This all depends on their upbringing. If you take the time to properly train and socialize these dogs, they will be gentle and loving. However, if the dogs are abused or trained with punishment, they could exhibit aggressive behavior. How big to German Shepherd Lab mixes get? Males can weigh as much as 88 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall at the withers. Do Shepradors get along with other dogs? German Shepherd Labrador mixes do just fine with other dogs. However, they must be properly socialized first. Exposure to other animals is key during their development. They should be introduced to new family dogs slowly to prevent any aggressive behavior. Do Shepradors make good working dogs? Thanks to their intelligence and high trainability, Labrashepherds make fine working dogs. They do particularly well herding livestock. Conclusion German Shepherd Lab mixes are a joy to raise. If you have an active lifestyle to keep them fit, they will be a great addition to your family. Treat them well and these pups will spend their lives being a loving canine companion. Search Dog Breeds. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. House-trained, Story Hi! My name is Churro! I love to play outside with my foster siblings. I act like I'm the boss of the pack, but I get along with everyone big and small! I love cuddles from my foster mama! I'm crate trained, and never had an accident inside my crate! Sometimes, when foster Mom picks me up I tend to go into statue mode and I play freeze! She gives me kisses and I love those so much! If you choose me, I promise I'll love you forever! Ruff Ruff! Please email: priya threelittlepittiesrescue. Brought by USDA licensed semi-truck transport. Pick up day is unforgettable! Our dogs travel in style in our big green truck, equipped with air conditioning for comfort, two drivers, and 3 onboard attendants providing 24 hour care. Three Little Pitties wants to set you and your new pet up for success! In addition to a fully vetted furbaby, you also receive many other additional perks such as a 30 day trial of pet insurance with Trupanion must register within 24 hours of first vet appt. The stray and animal overpopulation in the Greater Houston area is one of the highest in the nation. Statistics show that there are over 1 million homeless animals in this region alone! Three Little Pitties Rescue is a nonprofit dog and cat rescue that partners with the community to make a difference. Our mission is to reduce the homeless pet population through community outreach, free spay and neuter services, and saving all breeds of dogs and cats from the streets or animal shelters that oftentimes have no choice but to euthanize animals for space. We prepare them for adoption by properly vetting and providing individualized care through our incredible behavior program that consists of socialization and leash training for all animals that enter our adoption program, prior to matching them with loving families who will treasure them for the rest of their lives. They are rescue dogs and will require continued training efforts once adopted, but will be well on their way to being the best dogs that they can be! Three Little Pitties Rescue just celebrated our 5 year anniversary! Over the course of this time, we have been very fortunate for so much growth, allowing us to further connect with the community and save many lives. Through the combined efforts of all of our hardworking staff and volunteers, we have placed over 11, very lucky dogs and cats into amazing homes! By adopting from us, you save TWO lives! The pet you adopt, and you create an opportunity for another animal to be brought into our rescue program. Together, we can be heroes. Follow along on our rescue journey through the links below! Welcome to the Utah state page on TrustedPuppies. Renowned for its stunning national parks, outdoor recreation opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Utah is a fantastic place to find and raise your new Pug companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Pug breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Utah breeders who specialize in raising amazing healthy puppies. Our UT breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Utah, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Great Salt Lake Dog Training Club Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Pug canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With an estimated thousand dogs residing in the state, Utah ranks 36th in the nation for dog ownership. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Pug breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Utah. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Pug puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Pug puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for El Paso Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in San Diego? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in San Diego? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In this healthy, loving and natural environment, our adult dogs and puppies run freely and thrive. All of our dogs are healthy, sweet, loving, gentle, and well behaved. All are fantastic family companion dogs and are very well socialized before they go home. Families often visit our ranch and feel very safe allowing their children to visit with our dogs, puppies, horses, and barn cats. Our ranch is a very peaceful environment. Love, consistent training, and patience is what we provide to our animals every day. Long life, well being, safety, and loving homes is what we strive for when we screen our new homes. Several years ago as we began looking for a female to breed to our Harley, we spent endless hours and days researching our best options and making sure that the puppy we would bring home would be healthy, smart, and sweet. That philosophy continues and we are so happy to share our puppies with families who are looking for a new family member. We raise all of our dogs from the age of eight weeks old and we do not rush to breed. We enjoy every stage of life with them and every day with them. Each one of them has their own personality, likes, and dislikes. We know our dogs. Not having to work away from home anymore gives us the opportunity to spend every day with our dogs, horses, and barn cats. It really is a beautiful life. We also are very proud that we have been able to maintain contact and receive updates about our pups over the years. The longevity of our puppy relationships is a testament to our commitment to the life of our pups. Facebook, Instagram, texting, emailing, and other forms of technology have been amazing tools to keep in touch and see how our pups are doing. This has been even more important as some of our pups are in different States all over the United States. Every puppy and dog on this site is either our dog or a puppy from our ranch. Please see the guestbook as there are several testimonials from families who have had our pups over the years. There are several pictures of these families with their pups who live in several states all over the United States. Thank you so much for visiting. Feel free to contact us via this site, our Facebook page, our google business page, Instagram, or a simple phone call. We welcome visitors by appointment. We have answers. San Diego Golden Retriever puppies will be listed for different prices online depending on a number of things like coat color, pedigree, breeder experience and more. Because we know that cost is an important factor when choosing a breeder, part of our MatchMaker experience is connecting you with litters who fit your budget, too. What if that are no Golden Retriever for sale San Diego nearby? Our network includes companies and breeders from all over the Lower 48 States, all with experience in making travel arrangements for puppies to major airports across the US. We have strict standards in place regarding our partner breeders and businesses, covering all facets of the breeding process—including animal health and care, legal compliance, facility maintenance and more. Have a look at our point Breeder Pledge to see exactly what goes into a quality breeder. How many are actually puppy mills? Just about anyone can sell dogs on the internet, but screening and vetting is almost impossible. What is a puppy mill? Unfortunately, there are many people in the world who see dogs as nothing more than products to be sold. Puppy mill dogs are more likely to get sick, to cost owners a fortune in vet bills, and to die at a young age. Are there any San Diego Golden Retriever puppies for sale near me right now? Our MatchMaker system is uniquely designed to make the dog-finding process easy, fast and fun. How do I know I can trust you? We know you have tons of choices for Golden Retriever puppies for sale in San Diego County, and we want to help narrow down your search to only the best options possible. Just take a peek at some of our reviews and Puppy Alumni to see the difference a little love can make—we promise to never work with unethical breeders and puppy mills.