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Are you in search of affordable French Bulldog puppies? Look no further! Our main goal is to help you find the ideal and perfect French bulldog puppy for sale in your area. You can buy a healthy cheap teacup French bulldog puppy for sale today by browsing through our French Bulldogs Available for sale page History of cheap French Bulldog puppies Despite what its name may imply, the french bulldog was developed in England. When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. Frenchies are very adaptable, so they make great pets for first-time dog owners. They adjust well to other animals, too, and are great with kids. This handsome Mini French Bulldog puppy is waiting for his new loving family! He is raised with children that play with him daily. This cutie is social, friendly and loads of fun. This fella will instantly make everyone fall in love with him! He is ACA registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. He is cute as a button and has an amazing personality. This puppy is super happy and is just looking for a family to call his own. He is super social and enjoys playing with the children he is being raised with. This baby is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Call today! When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. These puppies are gentle, loving and affectionate. They are a good family dog and do well with children. The breed is also intelligent, docile and relatively easy to train. While puppies may be very energetic, adult Frenchies are relatively calm and have moderate exercise needs. That makes them an excellent choice for apartments and for owners who are unable to provide vigorous exercise. The dog bonds with owners and can get depressed if left alone for long periods. Bored or lonely pups can also chew or become destructive. Our primary objective is to assist you in locating the appropriate French Bulldog puppy for sale in your neighborhood History of French Bulldog French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Meet Coco! She is a French Bulldog looking for her perfect companion. This amazing gal is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee. She is super social and is being raised with children that play with her daily. Her momma is Suzanne. Coco is ready to brighten all your days with kisses.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Are they the right fit for your home? Can you attend to their needs? Are they as cute as a button? The perfect pal that ticks all these boxes is our line of bernedoodle puppies in Sydney, Melb, and surrounding areas. At 4Pups, we breed first-generation bernedoodle puppies for sale across Australia to bring out the best of the Australian Shepard and Poodle breeds and produce outstanding quality dogs. A compact and healthy little animal with a wonderful temperament, perfect for a ball of fun! Speak to our team here today to find your pup! So why are these dogs made for you? Many Bernedoodle puppies in Sydney and beyond have one of the most adorable and energetic personalities, making them one of the most iconic dog breeds. There is a wide range of different variations of this breed. There are many colours available depending on the type of Bernedoodle you choose, from grey and fawn to apricot and merle if the dog takes after the Poodle parent, and black, white, or a tri-coloured black, white, and brown coat if the Bernese side is dominant. Because they shed minimal to no fur around the household, this prevents dander from getting out into the air, which is the cause for conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and other allergic reactions. This makes these bernedoodle for sale in Melbourne perfect for homeowners with a dog allergy, allowing you to pet these adorable creatures without. I also wanted to say thank you again for all your kindness and getting us another puppy after losing our dear Ollie. I can tell you Sherman is just such a joy. Look at that face! We absolutely love him. You picked us the best dog. We could not be happier with our little bundle of fur. He is mellow, fun, happy, friendly. Piper has taken to being his trainer and we are working on all kinds of commands. Sit, Stay, Come, Drop. As you can see he loves to lay in the bushes and stay cool. He also loves to go in the lake. Only up to his knees but he seems to like it. Sherman is the perfect combination of playful and mellow for our family. Thank you so much. We just love him. Clementine was born on Aug 2, .She has become such a part of our family. She is the most beautiful dog I have ever seen. Our daughter is a professional photographer and took these pictures. We have plenty more where these came from :-D. And more than her beauty her personality is ridiculously incredible. She is still a pup and gets into trouble now and then. She loves to play. She loves everyone she meets. And she loves to just hang out with us. She was in the car with the 2 of us and our two 10 year old twin granddaughters for two straight 10 hour days on the way there and 2 more full days on the way back and could not have been more perfect. She just seems to know when to be spunky and when to be mellow. We could not be happier. We waited 11 months for her and paid an arm and a leg for her, but we would do it again a thousand times over to get her. Thank you so much for breeding your dogs. We love our little Clementine. Let us know if you would like any more pictures. The wait was so worth it. You have given us the most incredible animal — smart, loving, healthy with the best personality anyone could wish for! She truly is an incredible dog. She is bringing so much joy and love to our family and after only 7 months with us, we are starting to question whether Kota needs a Swissridge sibling! My husband, who did NOT want a dog is crazy in love with her! I loved coming out to meet you and see your wonderful facility. Straight away I knew that a lady as lovely as this, could only breed amazing dogs! Thank you Sherry — you truly have changed our lives and we are so proud to be part of this amazing Swissridge family! Trek is an amazing little guy and we fell in love with him instantly. He is very intelligent and easy to train. He makes us smile constantly with his silly antics. Need I mention cute, he is too cute for his own good. He Loves to run around the yard with his big brother and then come in the house for a snuggle. I am always amazed at how well he listens to commands for being such a young pup. I am constantly impressed with SwissRidge Kennels and the pups that come from there. Thank You Sherry and the SwissRidge staff for creating such wonderful dogs for us to enjoy. Location: Brisbane, Australia Email: [email protected] Bernedoodles Australia Having previously bred family pets and therapy dogs, these breeders quickly realized that Bernedoodles would complement Australian households. Thus, Bernedoodles Australia was established. They specialize in healthy Bernedoodles and Bernedoodles from Australia. Their puppies have excellent temperaments and shed minimally to not at all. They were the first breeders in Australia to introduce Bernedoodles and Australian Bernedoodles in .In , the beautiful Aussie Mountain Doodle was also presented to Australian families. They have raised highly bright, affectionate pets and therapeutic Bernedoodles since .Their breeding program is founded on an all-encompassing philosophy. Puppies are born and reared in the homes of family members, children, and other pets. Each female breeding dog is limited to three liters before spaying or neutering. Breeding dogs at Bernedoodles Australia are not merely pets but also cherished family members, as they all reside in family homes rather than kennels. Before breeding, all dogs undergo genetic testing and hip and elbow scoring. Their puppies are socialized with youngsters and raised in a loving family environment, making them ideal family pets. Lavender Lane is dedicated to breeding responsibly and is an active member of its community. Lavender Lane Puppies aims to breed healthy, happy, and affectionate puppies. They vaccinate, microchip, and treat their puppies for fleas, ticks, and worms. Puppies at Lavender Lane are sold with health reports that include thorough examinations. In addition, the breeders create a Lavender Lane Puppy Kit for each puppy to ensure a smooth transition. Each puppy has a new manual, milestones brochure, training instructions, advice leaflet, toys, food, and a transition blanket. As a smaller Bernedoodle breeder, puppies are not always available. Therefore, they request that you register on their website to receive updates. To find out if a breeder is reputable, look at their website or contact them directly and ask them about the care of their dogs. When choosing a puppy from your chosen breeder, you should be able to see photos of each puppy before deciding whether or not it meets your standards, as well as any other requirements such as being gentle around children. You should also check if there are any other breeds besides Bernedoodles at this facility so that if something happens with one breed, another option is available for replacement purposes! The name comes from two parent breeds, Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, which breeders created in the United States in the s. The first Bernedoodles were created by breeders in Australia who crossed their dogs with purebred Poodles or Australian Shepherds. Do Bernedoodles Make Good Pets? As a pet, Bernedoodles are very friendly and affectionate. Their high energy levels make them perfect for those who want to spend time outdoors but still have a dog at home. Conclusion Bernedoodles are a fantastic breed of dog that can be great for family members of all ages. They are always happy and love to be around you, which makes them a great addition to any family. Image Credits:.

Training Tips Sooner Lab Process 1. Research — We believe our English Labrador Retrievers puppies will make the absolute best pets. Feel free to ask us any questions and research for yourself. Contact — We would love to know about your family, lifestyle, other animals and what are are looking for. This goes towards the purchase of your puppy. Sooner labs reserves the right to hold back the first pick male and first pick female for our breeding program. Updates- After your puppy is born I will send pictures or videos each week of what is available to you. I also post pictures, so make sure you follow Sooner Labs on Facebook or Instagram. Picking your puppy- We make our picks at 5 weeks. We have a beautiful back yard if you would like to come pick in person. We schedule these in 30 minutes increments usually on a Saturday morning. I will be glad to answer and help you in this process. Make sure you schedule a wellness exam within 3 business days of your puppy going home. Puppy Pick Up Day- One of our favorite things is to meet our puppy families in person. We will schedule a time for you to pick up your puppy. Your puppy will have a bath and we will provide all the paperwork and answer all your questions. Follow up- I always reach out the following day after your puppy goes home to check on you and answer any questions. We get pictures almost daily of our former pups and are here to answer any questions you may have throughout your dogs life About Sooner Labs My name is Destry Newman. I have lived in the Shawnee and Tecumseh Oklahoma area my entire life. I graduated from Tecumseh High School in and obtained my bachelors degree from Southern Nazarene University in .My wife Jill and I have been married for 29 years. God blessed us with 3 wonderful children. Tanner and his wife Lauren, Alicen and her husband Jarad and Destynee, or as I call her the puppy whisper. We have two grandchildren who call us Poppy and Honey and we absolutely adore, Noah and Emberlynn. Early in life I was involved in 4-H and had a love for animals. During that time I took the opportunity to travel in both Oklahoma and Texas competing in dog obedience and showmanship with my sheltie, Beau Jangles. In high school, my best friend had a black lab named Annie. I loved.This small farm puts its focus on high-quality, intelligent Labradors. They offer yellow, white, chocolate, and black Labrador puppies. Puppies from Big Thunder Kennels will come with their first shots and deworming as well as a microchip. The contract and health guarantee are included in the purchase and copies provided upon pick of the puppy or by email. All puppies are sold with limited registration unless breeding rights are granted by the kennel. This kennel has been in the breeding business for over 30 years and has earned a great reputation along the way. They advise that their puppies are members of the family that also participate in duck, quail, dove, and pheasant hunting. They have been breeding since and emphasized field performance, health, and longevity. Not only are they breeders of Labrador Retrievers but Golden Retrievers as well. All puppies come warranted against hip and elbow growth disorders and homozygous genetic defects such as centronuclear myopathy and exercise-induced collapse. RockErin Kennels advise they only breed a few select litters each year. This facility also participates heavily in dog training as well. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. Abbott Labradors has always worked hard to find and breed Labrador Retrievers that have great temperaments, love to retrieve, reflect breed standards, and are intelligent, with easy to train puppies. Many of ours puppies are used in duck, quail, dove and pheasant hunting as well as being loving family members and companions. Many of our dams have Kellogg Kennel breeding and carry the pointing gene. Many of the dams are daughters or granddaughters of Mayo Kellogg males we have owned. We have sires and dams with field champions, pointing champions and Master Hunters in their pedigrees. You can check out the pedigrees of our females and look for Rocky and Dakota as sires for the Kellogg lineage of our females Daisy, Cy and Lin. Dakota is the sire of Win and Bree and is one of the last dogs bred by Mayo Kellogg of Kellogg kennels. Colt, Gold and Ty are our current sires and they have AKC hunt test and field champions, Pointing champions and Master Hunters on both sides of their pedigree. We raise chocolate, black and yellow Labradors puppies. Come on in and take a look at what we have to offer.

Sometimes the owners reduce the price if you have a talk with them. You need to deposit a certain amount to reserve your puppy. Why are Pure French Bulldog puppies expensive in Alabama? The French Bulldogs are quite popular and they are one of the most expensive dog breeds. For this breed, naturally giving birth is complicated. That is why they usually undergo C-sections which are moderately expensive. The breeders also have to pay a hefty stud fee. Since the mothers do not have delivery, they become quite weak after giving birth and cannot take care of their offspring. So, the breeders have to take care of them which is like a full-time job. The puppies are given necessary vaccinations too in due time. Because of these costs, the breeders charge comparatively more for bulldog pups. Before adopting a French Bulldog pup from any breeder, you should do some investigation on the breeder. You should ask about their breeding and raising process, check if they are American Kennel Club or AKC registered or not. Ask them questions about the medical history of the puppies and if they got any genetic disorders. You should also check the pedigrees. You can check the list of breeders mentioned above who reside in Alabama. The breeders are also AKC registered. How do I choose a French Bulldog puppy in Alabama? When you are planning to adopt a Frenchies pup, you should do some background medical checks on them such as Dwarfism, malformed hips and back problems, eyes if they have cataracts. You should also check the pedigree. After that, you should choose a pup that you can love unconditionally and can give a new loving home. Do not feel shy to ask any questions related to the French Bulldogs to the breeders. The frog dogs are so popular because of their ability to adapt to any home, even in a small apartment. Their low energy is also another reason for their popularity. People like their temperament and size as well. They are very calm. They have a friendly outgoing personalities. What is the rarest color of French Bulldog In Alabama? Why Are They Rare in Alabama? Though blue, lilac, black, tan are not AKC standard colors for French Bulldogs, they are quite rare and popular. Among these colors, the rarest color for Bulldogs is Blue Merle. These colors are achieved through very particular interbreeding. Because of this, they are quite expensive as well. In the first year, the cost is more as you need to give the puppies the necessary supplies, visits to the vet, and medical shots. How much is a French Bulldog puppy in Alabama without papers? But the puppies without papers might not even be purebred so be careful of puppies without papers. What is the most popular French Bulldog color in Alabama? The AKC standard colors for French Bulldogs are white, tan, fawn brindle, and a combination of brindle and white. Among these colors, the most popular color is the Brindle French Bulldog. Where can I take my French Bulldog in Alabama? In Alabama, there are some leash-free dog parks where you can take your French Bulldog pups for a walk or run. You need to be careful of the puppy mills and backyard breeders. Adopting puppies from them is discouraged because you can never get to know about the bloodlines or any genetic disorders of the puppies. The puppies might not ever be tested too. So, to avoid them, you need to have enough knowledge about the breeders in your area. Try to adopt from AKC registered breeders. Why Not? It is up to you if you want to adopt a pup from rescue centers but the thing about rescue center pets is that you do not get to know about their bloodlines or if they have any genetic disorders or if they are infected with any disease. Try to adopt puppies from breed specific centers and support law by adopting pups that are registered and have papers. The Frenchies are very easy to maintain. The ears of the Bulldogs are like bat ears. The coat of the Frenchies is shiny and smooth. So, these dogs are very easy to groom as well. The dogs might look tough on the outside but they are very sweet on the inside. The Frenchies thrive for human contact. The clown dogs cannot get taller than 13 inches at the shoulder. This quality makes them a great option for the people who reside in the cities and have less space. Do you know any breeder about whom I have not featured in the article? If yes, please let me know in the comment section below. Among the breeders mentioned above, which breeder did you like the most? Please let us know in the comment section which size, age and color of golden pups you prefer the most. Michelle Brown. Website: Stargate French Bulldogs 2. It is a family-oriented breeding program that produces some of the healthiest, happiest, and most beautiful French bulldog puppies possible. The family has over 25 years of experience breeding Frenchies. You will significantly benefit from their wealth of experience and knowledge when you buy a puppy from them, If this is your first time owning a French Bulldog puppy, Blue Grit Kennel is one of the best breeders from whom to buy this breed. They care about their puppies and always follow up to ensure they are healthy and happy. The family provides all their clients a lifetime of support and guidance, so rest assured you will not embark on this journey alone. Another amazing thing about Blue Grit Kennel is its pricing model. Their puppies are affordable despite investing a lot of time, effort, and money in raising them. All their puppies are bred from AKC-registered parents with exceptional bloodlines. The puppies also have AKC registration. After birth, the puppies are thoroughly examined by a licensed vet. Their puppies go home with a health certificate and are fully vaccinated. The family also deworms at the appropriate time. They can deliver your puppy to you regardless of where you are in Alabama. Shipping is also available via trusted puppy nannies to major cities in the US. Besides health, this family focuses on other things like socialization and temperament. The French Bulldog requires early training and socialization, which this family understands. The puppies are socialized with kids and other animals daily. Potty and crate training are also part of their program, ensuring your new family member comes home well-socialized and semi-trained. They can melt your heart with those big loving eyes. They learn quickly and are always eager to please you, their best friend. Frenchies are an attractive and eye catching breed. Their bodies are small but muscular and heavy boned, giving them their characteristic appearance that is so desirable. They average 18 to 24 pounds, so are small enough to fit into most living situations. They love car rides, leash walks, and just spending time with you. We have adorable frenchies for sale in Alabama. We selectively breed for health and temperament, cuteness and specialize in standard, rare and exotic color French bulldog puppies. We DNA health and color test all our dogs. All of our puppies are AKC registered so our customers know they are getting healthy and purebred puppies. We follow a strict vaccination and deworming schedule and all our puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee. All of our puppies are microchipped and they come with a microchip enrollment form. Our goal is to have all of our puppies go to loving pet homes or to qualified breeders. Our puppies are raised around adults, kids and other French bulldogs. This helps socialize the puppies so they can quickly adjust to their new home. When you bring home your new best friend from WW Best French Bulldogs, you know that they are healthy, happy, and well-loved. We are dedicated to raising happy, healthy, and well socialized family companions.

German Shepherd Puppies are lovingly home raised and socialized at our modern 5 acre park like Kennel Facility in Florida Miami. These are just a few words that describe our German shepherds. Life with a German Shepherd is a joy that one must experience to appreciate and understand, and the intelligence of these great dogs must be seen to be believed. AKC Registered Puppies In Miami Our dogs have provided countless individuals and families with a loyal pet that has a high aptitude, as well as the ability to provide protection. Each of the German shepherd puppies we have for sale are AKC registered and come from a superior lineage. Notably, our German Shepherds go through rigorous testing to qualify for breeding, as our dogs are bred with top sires that have at least a V or VA show rating. German Shepherds are well known for their character and temperament. Poised and confident, our pups are faithful and intelligent companions. They are also great protection dogs, as many safeguard homes, property or livestock. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. All of our German Shepherds come with a written guarantee and have been vet-checked, socialized, vaccinated to date, temperament-tested by a professional dog trainer, and above all, have been very much loved. Our German Shepherds are gorgeous Black and Red color, big boned, and correct structure. This price is determined by the size of the puppy, and includes the flight ticket, pre-flight vet exam, a crate the perfect size for your puppy, and travel to the airport. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. Breeding top producing west German Sieger show Line German Shepherds is number one in producing quality German Shepherd puppies for sale. Being a German Shepherd dog breeder requires breeding high quality German Shepherds from some of the top rated German Shepherds in Germany They are superior in health with parents being x-rayed with clear hips and elbows by the OFA or the SV. These German shepherd litters of puppies for sale will make great companion dogs as well as excellent conformation, show and working dogs. Their inclination towards making their masters happy, their mental soundness and their high degree of intelligence have made this dog a successful working dog and masterpiece companion for their owners. Our breeding male shepherds are from top pedigrees. You can also visit us on our Facebook page to see recent news. Visit our website, at any moment you may feel you need more information than what we supply here feel free to Contact Us. Our main goal is to produce dogs that will become very special to you. Contact Us with any questions you have about our puppies or anything else. We have answers. Even puppies that look virtually identical could have radically different price tags, often with little explanation why. Will I be matched with local German Shepherd breeders? All German Shepherd breeders and companies who enter the Uptown network pledge to uphold our standards by signing our Breeder Pledge, protecting your family from ever needing to do business with an unethical puppy mill. For many families, Uptown Puppies is one of the quickest and most fun ways to find a puppy—and not just any puppy, but the right puppy. Sadly, dogs bred at mills and sold at pet stores tend to suffer from genetic diseases more often, develop temperament issues, cost owners thousands in extra vet bills, and even die young. Do you have German Shepherd puppies Miami Florida available right now? Odds are pretty good that your new best friend is already out there! To start your search, all you need to do is complete your MatchMaker process below. MatchMaker is pretty darn amazing. Can I trust any German Shepherd in Miami being sold online? Truth be told, there are many puppy scams out there.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. This is especially true with dogs like German Shepherds because they have a strong prey drive, but this nipping and biting can also quickly get out of hand. This often comes out as biting and nipping, but puppies will also bite when they are teething and to taste the world around them. This can, of course, quickly get out of hand if not taken care of swiftly. In this article, we look at the reasons behind German Shepherd puppies biting and seven steps to help stop the behavior. Training The first and most important step in stopping your puppy from biting is early and focused training. Beginning training at an early age is vital for powerful dogs like GSDs, as without it, they can easily develop problematic behaviors and even become aggressive. An important part of training is socialization, and getting your GSD to interact with other dogs will help teach them boundaries, as any biting too hard will have instant consequences for them. Image Credit: AnjaGh, Pixabay 2. Toys Toys are ideal for your GSD puppy to exercise their teething. There is a massive variety of suitable chew toys available, and whenever you notice your pooch getting the urge to chew, you can gently offer them a chew toy instead. Commands Basic and simple commands should be taught to your GSD from a young age. Whenever they get overexcited and bite down too hard, you can then simply issue a verbal command that catches their attention. After you issue the commands, leave your puppy alone for a few minutes so they learn that this behavior is unacceptable. Image Credit: Jim Sluder, Pixabay 4. Redirection Redirection is a useful tool in training and can work well with biting too. This method is simple and works by keeping your pup from unwanted behavior and offering them appropriate behavior instead. Whenever your pooch bites or nips, try to offer them a chew toy of some kind instead, and this will gradually lead them to chew toys as opposed to your hands. Squeak toys are great for this type of redirection, as the noise is enticing to most puppies and dogs. Reward good behavior Positive reinforcement training methods are best for leading your puppy toward desired behaviors and away from unwanted ones. These methods involve no scolding or harsh treatment, so they are ideal for cementing the bond between you and your pup. When you offer your dog a chew toy instead of biting and they take it or you issue a command that they instantly follow, you simply reward that behavior with either a treat or praise. You ignore any bad behavior. They will swiftly associate treats with good behavior and stop the bad behavior that gets them no attention. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 6. Games Since GSDs are such powerful and athletic animals, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated through games and interactive play. Games are also the best time to engage and enforce training techniques and get your GSD accustomed to them before biting gets out of hand. Stick to simple games like fetch or frisbee, where you can train your pooch to give the ball back when you tell them to. Harsh treatments like hitting or shouting are highly unlikely to solve the problem and will probably just make it worse, as your dog will simply become nervous and wary of you. With a powerful dog like German Shepherds, trust is vital. They are highly intelligent and aware animals, and the smallest of sounds or movements are enough to set them off. There are several reasons for this, including: GSD puppies will begin teething as early as 2 weeks old, and this can be uncomfortable and even painful for them. This behavior can go on until your puppy is 6 months old, and they will chew on almost anything that they can find — including your hand — in an attempt to try and soothe their discomfort. Separated too young. The first 2 months of your GSDs life is vital to their socialization and learning, and if they are taken away from their mother and litter too young, this may cause a lack of understanding of boundaries. Puppies will play and learn with the rest of their littermates, where they learn to control the force of their bite. GSDs should be at least 8 weeks old before they are re-homed. Fear or overstimulation. Fear, anxiety, and overstimulation are common reasons for puppies to lose control of their bite because this can cause them to become irritable or defensive and lead them into the habit of biting. Conclusion Since German Shepherds are such powerful dogs, proper training is vital, and bite inhibition is an essential part of that training. Proper training is the vital first step and will set the tone for all other methods. With time, consistency, patience, and gentle leadership, your German Shepherd puppy should kick the biting habit in no time. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.

We rescue abandoned, homeless and neglected Labradors from all over central California and beyond. We wish to end suffering and promote the welfare of labs and lab mixes through direct action and education. We provide each dog with a stable environment, love, companionship, food and veterinary care until a qualified, loving forever home is found. Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno believes that all companion animals should be treated with dignity, compassion and kindness. LRRF is supported entirely by our dog loving community. We fix broken bones and provide all needed medical care for the dogs who come into our rescue. We take in senior and special needs Labs. As a direct result of the number of dogs coming into rescue, our resources are severely strained. Through the generous hearts and hands of people like you, we can ensure that the animals who come into our care will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid or in pain. Please consider a one time or monthly donation to help us with caring for these dogs. Your donation is tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Donations can be made via our Paypal button below. Box , Clovis, CA .Vocality level 4 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 Few breeds so richly deserve their popularity as does the Labrador Retriever. When trained, the breed is obedient and amiable and tolerates the antics of children, other dogs, and other pets. The Lab is a calm house dog, playful yard dog, and intense field dog, all on the same day. Labs are eager to please, enjoys learning, and excel in obedience. It is a powerful breed that loves to swim and retrieve. Labradors need daily physical and mental challenges to keep occupied. A bored Lab can get into trouble! Upkeep Labradors are active and sociable dogs. They need daily exercise, preferably in the form of retrieving and swimming. Owners with swimming pools either must fence them out or be prepared to share the pool with dogs. The Lab coat sheds water easily. Weekly brushing is needed to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, OCD, obesity, patellar luxation Minor concerns: cataract, CPRA, hot spots, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: diabetes, entropion, distichiasis, tricuspid valve dysplasia, centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced collapse Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, exercise-induced collapse DNA , centronuclear myopathy , knee Life span: 10—12 years History The original Labradors were all-purpose water dogs originating in Newfoundland, not Labrador. Not only did the breed not originate in Labrador, but it also was not originally called the Labrador Retriever. These dogs—medium-sized black dogs with close hair—not only retrieved game but also retrieved fish, pulled small fishing boats through icy water and helped the fisherman in any task involving swimming. Eventually, the breed died out in Newfoundland in large part because of a heavy dog tax. However, a core of Labradors had been taken to England in the early s, and it is from these dogs, along with crosses to other retrievers, that the breed continued. It was also in England that the breed earned its reputation as an extraordinary retriever of upland game. Initially, black labs were favored over yellow or chocolate colors. By the early s, the other colors had become more accepted. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in and remains so today. Related Content.

Articles Many people always wonder if Phantom Goldendoodles are a different dog breed altogether or if they come with special needs in terms of care and grooming. Actually, a Phantom Goldendoodle has a similar temperament as any other Goldendoodle and will not require any special care. But what makes this breed so unique? I did some research, and here is what I found. The uniqueness of a Phantom Goldendoodle lies in their coat color and markings. This Phantom Goldendoodle is simply a type of Goldendoodle with two coat colors, with special markings and the colors appearing on specific parts of the body. They are so rare that we cannot possibly predict the outcome of having a Phantom Goldendoodle offspring in the breeding process. Phantom Goldendoodles will not develop their markings as they grow. This means that this puppy will have the same color as it matures, and also, the location of its secondary color will remain the same. So, if you are interested in buying or adopting this rare but extremely beautiful dog breed, keep reading to find out more about this breed. What Is A Phantom Goldendoodle? Bred from a Golden Retriever and a Poodle , a Phantom Goldendoodle is a type of Goldendoodle that comes in different color combinations, with the primary color being either black, red, chocolate, or silver. A black Phantom Goldendoodle may come with a secondary color of either brown, red, gray, silver, or apricot. In contrast, red and chocolate Phantom Goldendoodles are apricot, whereas silver Phantom Goldendoodles are typically cream and silver. The phantom coloring, also known as Dobie marking, is quite similar to a Manchester Terrier, Yorkie, or Doberman Pinscher. For the secondary color, it should only appear in specific places, such as the chest, eyes, inside the ears, muzzle, under the tail, and lower leg parts. Are Phantom Goldendoodles Rare? Phantom Goldendoodles are considered to be a rare dog breed because of its unique marking. A dog with phantom coloring means that it has to come in two different colors. However, there is more to the phantom coloring than just bringing two colors together because the secondary color of the dog, as mentioned previously, must be in specific locations for it to be considered phantom. This makes the dog very difficult to breed or to find. An adult Phantom Goldendoodle can be between 20 to 24 inches tall with a weight of 50 to 90 lbs. However, the parents of your Phantom Goldendoodle greatly impact the size and weight of the dog. Physical Appearance Apart from the coat color, the Phantom Goldendoodle has no major differences from other Goldendoodles when it comes to physical appearance. Just like the other Goldendoodles, they have three types of coat, including straight coat, wavy coat, and curly coat. However, the dog must come in two different colors, where the secondary color is in specific locations as elaborated previously. Phantom Goldendoodles have an average lifespan of between 10 to 15 years. Despite being known to be healthy dogs, they may experience genetic predispositions to certain health conditions. Dog owners usually use medication to treat the condition, but the dog may need surgery for severe cases. Arthritis — This condition mostly occurs with aging Phantom Goldendoodles, especially those suffering from hip dysplasia. However, for older dogs, the condition may go untreated. Epilepsy — It is a neurological disorder that may lead to seizures and serious implications if left untreated. Skin sensitivities — This condition is easy to treat and is caused by a wide range of factors, including shampoos, food or treats, etc. Allergies — This condition is usually the aftermath of an exposure to allergens from the outdoor environments, living spaces and food intakes. Image from Instagram: billie. When it comes to providing the right care for your Phantom Goldendoodle, there are several aspects to consider, such as an exercise routine, a high-quality diet, multivitamin supplementation and the use of dental water additives. Exercise A Phantom Goldendoodle will need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily where you can walk or play with them. Exercising is important in keeping them mobile and their weight in check. It is also crucial to note that the amount of exercise the dog requires is dependent on its energy levels, size, age, and the individual dog itself. However, too much exercise can cause more harm than good. Diet When it comes to the diet, a Phantom Goldendoodle should have a nutritious and well-balanced diet. Since many Goldendoodles have a sensitive stomach, feeding them with human food may upset the stomach. This is why, to avoid these issues, you should feed the dog with high-quality dog food. For this reason, we recommend Pet Plate for vet-developed meals that are nutritious, fresh, and safe for your dog to consume. Multivitamins Multivitamins will help supplement a healthy diet to ensure the dog gets all the necessary nutrients required. They also help treat or prevent some ailments. For example, vitamins A, E, and C are very important to a dog since they can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of certain health conditions. They also come in handy to help kill bacteria, reduce bad breath and tartar buildup. Are Phantom Goldendoodles Aggressive? They are one of the sweetest dogs one can own since they are quite friendly and well-behaved. Always exercise patience and reward them with treats during training. Their quiet personality makes them a great choice as a family pet, especially for new owners living in apartments who are considerate towards their neighbors. Phantom Goldendoodles do better when they are with someone at home, and when left alone, they may become aggressive or destructive in ways, such as incessant digging and chewing on furniture. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be left home alone for a few hours so that you can complete your periodic errand runs. Phantom Goldendoodles often suffer from separation anxiety because they enjoy human interaction and should not be left alone beyond 8 hours. Unfortunately, this is when the dogs tend to misbehave the most. Grooming Tips For Phantom Goldendoodles Phantom Goldendoodles are not high maintenance, and they do not have any special needs from other types of Goldendoodles. They are generally healthy dogs with average needs, and most of the time, they easily adjust to different living situations. Do Phantom Goldendoodles Shed? Phantom Goldendoodles boasts low shedding and hypoallergenic abilities of the coat. This means that these dogs rarely shed, but they may shed a bit more during their shedding seasons. Here are additional grooming tips to reduce the shedding and ensure the dog stays healthy. Bathing Bathing the Phantom Goldendoodle at least once in two months using a great dog shampoo such as the Pro Pet Works All Natural 5 In 1 Oatmeal Shampoo is recommended to ensure the dog remains healthy and make it easy to brush through the tangles. However, do not overdo it because bathing the dog too often may strip away the natural essential oils protecting their skin. Check Price on Amazon Brushing Their Coats Brushing their coats weekly is quite crucial to tangle out the hair and, in turn, reduce shedding. With the Furminator Undercoat Tool , brushing is made easier. This tool features gentle bristles and an ergonomically designed handle to provide a better grip. Cleaning fluid and cotton balls can be used to clean the outer part of the ear only. Do not insert anything in the ear as it may result in injury and pain in the ear. Trim Their Nails Trimming their nails at least once a month is recommended because nails that are too long may result in injuries. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. However, the cost of any Goldendoodle varies from one breeder to another and it is dependent on a variety of factors such as location, age and show quality breeds. Do Phantom Goldendoodles Swim? Phantom Goldendoodles love to swim because both their parents are water-loving dogs. They will enjoy being in the water, from boating to pools, beaches, and lakes. Poodles and Golden Retrievers will easily get along because of their nearly identical traits like sociability, playfulness, and friendliness. They both make excellent friends with each other and love to mingle, as long as they are well trained and socialized early. Black and Brown Black and White By far, the most common phantom colored Goldendoodle combination is the traditional black and tan look that resembles a Doberman. Silver Phantom Goldendoodle Photo courtesy of beaudoodleboy on Instagram. Silver is the next most common primary color for this coat pattern. It is usually pared with the secondary color of cream. Red Phantom Goldendoodle Red as the primary color for phantom markings is extremely hard to come across. Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle Photo courtesy of labmixbrothers on Instagram. Chocolate, or dark brown, is the last primary color option for the phantom pattern. Just like with red phantom dogs, the secondary color for chocolate phantoms is often apricot, cream, or white. The two most common sizes are standard and mini phantom Goldendoodles. Phantom mini Goldendoodles will usually weigh between pounds and have a height of inches. Standards will be significantly bigger with an average height of inches and weight of pounds. This amount is more than double the average price of a Goldendoodle! However, phantoms will always cost more than other Goldendoodle colors due to how rare and unique they are. Health Issues There are no known health issues that are specifically related to the phantom coat pattern. In fact, Goldendoodles are generally considered a healthy breed overall. However, your puppy will still be susceptible to the common health issues of both the Poodles and Golden Retrievers. While there are many companies out there to get quotes from, two highly rated options include Healthy Paws and Embrace. Read More: Do Goldendoodles Shed? The best way to ensure your Goldendoodle has the best odds of being hypoallergenic and non-shedding is to choose a generation with more Poodle DNA. Keep in mind, the more Poodle DNA your dog inherits, the curlier and harder to maintain their coat will be. In my opinion, one of the best investments you can make as as new Goldendoodle owner is in a quality slicker brush. That being said, all that affection and love can have some negative side-effects as well. Goldendoodles tend to be a bit clingy and can be prone to separation anxiety. Extremely friendly and oftentimes a bit silly , Goldendoodles are eager to please their humans. While you may get extremely lucky and find one in a shelter , the odds are minuscule due to the popularity of Goldendoodles and the rarity of this color pattern. Pet stores are another option, but not one that is recommended. Luckily, we have an article dedicated to showing you how you find reputable Goldendoodle breeders while spotting potential red flags. More Goldendoodle Colors…. Breeds The link has been copied! Welcome to the wonderful world of the Phantom Goldendoodle! This fascinating hybrid breed is the result of combining the beloved Golden Retriever and Poodle, resulting in a pup that is both beautiful and intelligent. But what sets the Phantom Goldendoodle apart from other Doodle breeds is its unique and striking coat pattern. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Phantom Goldendoodle, from their history and characteristics to their care and training. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of these captivating canines. What is a Phantom Goldendoodle? What sets the Phantom Goldendoodle apart from other Doodle breeds is its unique coat pattern, which features a base color of black, brown, or grey, with distinctive markings that resemble the outline of a phantom. The Phantom Goldendoodle is a relatively new breed of dog that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This hybrid breed is created by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle, resulting in a dog that is intelligent, affectionate, and incredibly cute. The Phantom Goldendoodle is a medium to large-sized dog, with an average weight of around pounds and a height of inches. These dogs have a wavy or curly coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for families with allergies. Their coats come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, apricot, cream, and red, with the phantom markings typically appearing on their legs, face, and tail. In terms of personality, the Phantom Goldendoodle is a friendly, outgoing dog that loves to be around people. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners or families with children. These dogs thrive on attention and affection, and are known for being loyal and devoted to their owners. They have a playful and energetic nature, but are also happy to snuggle up on the couch for a nap. When it comes to exercise and training, the Phantom Goldendoodle is a relatively active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy going for walks, playing fetch, and participating in training sessions, which help to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. This breed is also highly trainable and responsive to positive reinforcement techniques, making them a pleasure to train and work with. Overall, the Phantom Goldendoodle is a wonderful breed of dog that is both adorable and affectionate. They make great family pets and are sure to bring joy and companionship to any household. If you are looking for a dog that is as unique as it is lovable, then the Phantom Goldendoodle might just be the perfect fit for you. How does a Goldendoodle get Phantom coloring? The Phantom Goldendoodle gets its unique coat coloring from its Poodle parent. Poodles are known for having a variety of coat colors and patterns, including the Phantom coloring. The Phantom coloring is characterized by a solid base color, such as black, brown, or grey, with distinct markings that are usually a lighter color. The markings appear on specific areas of the dog's body, such as the eyebrows, muzzle, legs, and chest, and can give the dog a striking and unique appearance. When a Golden Retriever is bred with a Poodle, there is a chance that the resulting puppies may inherit the Phantom coloring from their Poodle parent. The likelihood of a Goldendoodle having Phantom coloring depends on the genetics of the parents and the specific breeding process. It is important to note that while the Phantom Goldendoodle is a highly sought-after breed, breeders should always prioritize the health and welfare of the dogs above any desired coat color or pattern. Dog Coat Genetics Dog coat genetics is a complex topic that involves multiple genes and their interactions. The appearance of a dog's coat is determined by two types of pigments: eumelanin, which produces black or brown colors, and pheomelanin, which produces red or yellow colors. The amount and distribution of these pigments, along with other factors such as hair length and texture, determine the overall appearance of the dog's coat. There are several genes that control the coat color and pattern of dogs, including the Agouti gene, the Extension gene, and the Dilution gene. The Agouti gene controls the distribution of pigments along the hair shaft and determines whether a dog's coat will have a solid color or a pattern. The Extension gene controls the production of eumelanin and determines whether a dog's coat will be black or brown. The Dilution gene controls the intensity of the coat color and can cause a dog's coat to appear lighter or more muted. In addition to these genes, there are several other factors that can influence a dog's coat, including environmental factors such as sunlight and nutrition. For example, dogs that are exposed to a lot of sunlight may experience a fading of their coat color over time. Similarly, dogs that are not getting the proper nutrition may have dull or dry coats. Phantom Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors, which can range from solid colors to the distinctive Phantom coloring. Here are some of the different colors that a Phantom Goldendoodle can be: Black Phantom Goldendoodle Black is a common base color for Phantom Goldendoodles. Their coat will be a solid black color, with the Phantom markings appearing in tan or cream color. Black is a dominant gene, which means that if one parent carries the black gene, the puppies are likely to have a black base coat. Silver Phantom Goldendoodle Silver is a less common base color for Phantom Goldendoodles, but it is possible for them to have a silver-colored coat. The silver coloration is produced by a dilution of the black color gene, resulting in a lighter shade of grey. The Phantom markings will appear in a lighter shade of silver or white, creating a unique and striking appearance. Red Phantom Goldendoodle While less common than black or brown, some Phantom Goldendoodles can have a base color of red. The red coloration is produced by a recessive gene, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for a puppy to have a red coat. The Phantom markings will appear in a darker red or brown color, creating a striking contrast against the red base coat. The chocolate coloration is produced by a recessive gene that must be inherited from both parents for a puppy to have a chocolate coat. The Phantom markings will appear in a lighter brown or cream color, creating a unique and beautiful contrast against the chocolate base coat. Goldendoodles come in a wide variety of colors, ranging from solid colors to various coat patterns. In addition to the colors that are common in Phantom Goldendoodles, here are some other colors that Goldendoodles can be: White : Goldendoodles can have a cream-colored coat, which can range from a light white to a deep golden hue. Apricot: This is a popular color for Goldendoodles, and it can range from a pale yellow to a deep orange. Chocolate : Goldendoodles have a chocolate coat, which can range from a light to a darker chocolate color. Parti: Goldendoodles can also have a Parti coat pattern, which features two or more distinct colors in a specific pattern. This can include combinations of white, black, brown, and other colors. Overall, Goldendoodles come in a wide variety of colors and coat patterns , which can make them a popular and attractive choice for many families. It's important to work with a reputable breeder who can provide information on the dog's lineage and potential coat coloring to ensure a happy and healthy match between the dog and owner. Size can be a significant factor in determining the price of a Goldendoodle. Generally speaking, the larger the dog, the more expensive it will be. This is because larger dogs typically require more food, larger living spaces, and more expensive medical care. In the case of Goldendoodles, size can vary depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Goldendoodles can range from small to large, with some weighing as little as 15 pounds and others weighing as much as 90 pounds. As a result, the price of a Goldendoodle can vary widely depending on its size. Smaller Goldendoodles tend to be more expensive than larger ones, simply because they are in higher demand. Many people prefer smaller dogs because they are easier to handle, require less space, and may have fewer health issues. As a result, breeders may charge a premium for smaller Goldendoodles. However, larger Goldendoodles can also be expensive due to the increased costs of raising and caring for them. Larger dogs require more food, larger living spaces, and more expensive medical care. Additionally, larger Goldendoodles may be less common than smaller ones, which can drive up the price. Does Pattern or Color Affect Price? The pattern or color of a Goldendoodle can affect its price, although the extent to which it does can vary. Certain patterns or colors may be rarer or in higher demand, which can drive up the price. Conversely, if a certain pattern or color is more common, the price may be lower. For example, Phantom Goldendoodles with a distinctive Phantom coloring are often in high demand and may be more expensive than Goldendoodles with other coat colors or patterns. Similarly, Goldendoodles with rare or unique colors such as black or parti-color may also be more expensive than those with more common colors. The lifespan of a Phantom Goldendoodle can vary depending on several factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. On average, a Phantom Goldendoodle can live for 10 to 15 years. Phantom Goldendoodles are generally a healthy breed, and their lifespan can be extended through proper care and attention. Providing your dog with regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet, and plenty of exercise can help ensure a longer, healthier life. To learn more about Goldendoodle lifespans , you can read our full article. Common Health Issues Like all dog breeds, Phantom Goldendoodles may be prone to certain health issues. While not all Phantom Goldendoodles will experience these health problems, it's important for owners to be aware of them and to work with their veterinarian to ensure their dog receives proper care and treatment. Here are some common health issues that Phantom Goldendoodles may be at risk for: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to discomfort and difficulty with movement. Ear Infections: Goldendoodles, like many breeds with floppy ears, may be prone to ear infections. This can be caused by a buildup of bacteria, yeast, or debris in the ear canal. Allergies: Goldendoodles may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts are two common eye conditions that can affect Goldendoodles, especially those with Poodle genetics. Von Willebrand's Disease: This is a genetic bleeding disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot properly. It can cause excessive bleeding and bruising. Gastric Torsion Bloat : This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which the stomach twists, trapping gas and food inside. It requires immediate veterinary attention. Do Phantom Goldendoodles Shed? Phantom Goldendoodles are typically considered to be low to non-shedding dogs, which can make them a good choice for people with allergies or who are sensitive to dog hair. However, it's important to note that all dogs shed to some extent, even if they are considered to be low-shedding or non-shedding. The amount of shedding in Phantom Goldendoodles can vary depending on several factors, including their individual genetics and the type of coat they inherit from their parents. Some Phantom Goldendoodles may have a curly, low-shedding coat like their Poodle parent, while others may have a wavier or more hair-like coat that sheds slightly more. To reduce shedding in Phantom Goldendoodles, regular grooming and brushing is recommended. Brushing your dog's coat regularly can help remove loose hair and prevent matting, which can reduce shedding. Additionally, keeping your dog's coat clean and well-maintained can help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Final Thoughts Phantom Goldendoodles are a unique and beautiful hybrid breed that combines the best traits of both Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Their striking Phantom coloring and low-shedding coats make them a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog. While Phantom Goldendoodles can be expensive and require regular grooming and care, they can make wonderful and beloved companions when properly cared for. It's important to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and welfare of their dogs and can provide information on potential coat coloring, health issues, and temperament. If you're considering a Phantom Goldendoodle as a new addition to your family, it's important to do your research and make an informed decision based on factors such as temperament, lifestyle, and health needs. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Black and White Black and Brown From the color combinations of black phantom Goldendoodles, the most popular combination you can find is the Black and Tan Goldendoodle. Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle Chocolate phantom Goldendoodles are another popular choice when it comes to the rare color variation of the designer dog breed. For a chocolate phantom Goldendoodle, the primary coat color is often chocolate or a very dark shade of brown. It comes in secondary colors like cream, white, or apricot. Red Phantom Goldendoodle Finding a red phantom Goldendoodle is almost impossible. The color variant is one of the rarest phantom Goldendoodle coats to produce. They have a red primary color coat and are often paired with secondary coats of cream, apricot, or even white, like the chocolate phantom Goldendoodle. Silver Phantom Goldendoodle Silver phantom Goldendoodle The silver phantom Goldendoodle is another common color variety of the phantom Goldendoodle variant. It features a primary coat color of silver or gray and it is often paired with a secondary coat color that is cream. Sable Phantom Goldendoodles Sable phantom Goldendoodles are blessed with unique coat colors and patterns. They do have the same pattern as the regular phantom Goldendoodle coat, but their fur can be very distinct. What makes a sable phantom Goldendoodle is its black-tipped fur. The roots of their fur can be any color but its tips are black and beautiful. They have the fading gene, so it is possible for your sable phantom Goldendoodle to lose its coat color as it ages. Brindle Phantom Goldendoodles Getting a brindle phantom Goldendoodle is very difficult. This coat color features the Goldendoodle with light and dark stripes that closely resemble those on a tiger. The brindle phantom Goldendoodle would still have the color patterns of the regular phantom Goldendoodle. Merle Phantom Goldendoodle Another very rare color variant of the phantom Goldendoodle is the merle phantom Goldendoodle. It features a combination and marbling effect of the merle Goldendoodle with the regular double coat color of the phantom Goldendoodle. The coat colors can range from blue to red to chocolate. Phantom Goldendoodle Lifespan There is a common misconception about Goldendoodles of different color variants when it comes to their lifespan. It is worth stating that all Goldendoodles irrespective of their color variations are still the same breed. With that being said, the average lifespan of a phantom Goldendoodle should be the same as a regular Goldendoodle. They should be able to live between 10 to 14 years provided they enjoy good health practices and are given the right nutrients in both food and in supplements too. There are other factors that can impact the overall lifespan of the Goldendoodle, so it is worth noting that the years lifespan is not set in stone. They can be a little too energetic and if left with all that energy and no place to channel it, your sweet Goldendoodle might cause you some problems in the long run. Make out time to exercise and train your phantom Goldendoodle from the puppy stage till they eventually become adults. Go on walks for at least one hour a day or take them swimming or basically involve them in mental exercises too. When it comes to training your phantom Goldendoodle, then you would find it a lot easier than expected. This is because the Goldendoodle is an intelligent dog breed and trainability for the puppy should be quite high. They work well when trained using positive reinforcement. Rather than being stern and authoritative on your Goldendoodle while training it, employ a gentler or softer approach towards it. Reward good behavior with treats and toys but be careful not to overdo it as you might spoil them a little too much. But it is recommended that you do this yourself as it can help strengthen the bond between you and your beloved Goldendoodle puppy. Goldendoodles in general are a healthy breed. But they are prone or susceptible to a few health defects which can be inherited from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. However, these are not specific to the phantom Goldendoodles, but all Goldendoodles. The answer to this question depends a lot on the coat type of the phantom Goldendoodle in question. As we already know, the phantom Goldendoodle has three coat types which are: Flat or short coat Wavy or shaggy coat Curly coat Of all three coat types, Goldendoodles born with the flat or short coat type are more likely to shed than those born with the other coat types. Since most phantom Goldendoodles are born with wavy or curly coats, then we can say that the phantom Goldendoodle is a low to minimal-shedding dog breed. How Much Are Phantom Goldendoodles? Rare Goldendoodle color variants like the phantom Goldendoodles are usually very expensive to own especially when dealing with a reputable breeder that truly cares for the Goldendoodle puppies they produce. Always get your puppies from a reputable breeder, irrespective of the high cost. Phantom Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale Check out any of the following breeders in the United States when looking for phantom Goldendoodles. They are reputable breeders that truly love their Goldendoodle dogs and are all about improving the breed through proper breeding practices. Their breeding program produces multi-gen Goldendoodle puppies of various coat colors including the very rare phantom and sable Goldendoodle coats. All their dogs have hypoallergenic coats. As they are tested and are healthy. Their breeding program ensures only the best sires and dams are accepted into their program. All their Goldendoodle dogs are selected for their program based on their overall health, intelligence, and even coat to ensure they get the desired litter. Their sires and dams undergo thorough and extensive health testing for genetic health conditions that could prove harmful to the Goldendoodle litter. They are health tested and are certified to show they have good functional hips, elbows, eyes, and cardiac. All puppies they produce are raised on a 4-acre property in Dubuque, Iowa. There they are surrounded by all family members both extended and nuclear. They are also surrounded by children and also other pets and animals. This ensures they get socialized and used to interacting with various people and animals of different age ranges. The puppies are also introduced to a few training practices. Your puppy should come with a 2 years health guarantee. They should be health tested and checked by a licensed vet and each should have their full vaccinations and deworm recorded. They also offer lifetime breeder support for all families and owners of their dogs. Goldendoodles Forever Contact Details. Phantom Goldendoodles are Goldendoodles that have a unique color pattern. This color pattern includes one base coat color and special markings in the second coat color. Phantom Goldendoodles can come in several different color varieties, including black, red, and chocolate, to name a few. Are Phantom Goldendoodles Rare? Yes, phantom Goldendoodles are on the rarer side. There are specific coat pattern requirements for a Goldendoodle to be considered a phantom. Specific coat genes are needed to produce a Goldendoodle with the phantom coat pattern. Goldendoodles have a lot of genetics for coat patterns and colors, so it is sometimes the luck of the draw when a phantom Goldendoodle is born. Are Phantom Goldendoodles More Expensive? Yes, phantom Goldendoodles tend to be more expensive than other types of Goldendoodles. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a phantom Goldendoodle than a standard Goldendoodle. This is because PGs are rarer than solid Goldendoodles. Some PGs are more expensive than others as well. Certain types of PGs are more challenging to produce than others. For example, a black phantom is likely to be less expensive than a blue merle phantom. This is because a black Phantom Goldendoodle is much more common than the more complex blue merle phantom. Phantom Goldendoodles Sizes Phantom Goldendoodles come in all of the sizes that regular Goldendoodles do. This includes the standard, medium, miniature, and toy sizes. Standard PGs are the mix between either a standard poodle and a golden retriever or two standard Goldendoodles. This is the largest of the four Goldendoodle sizes, and they can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Standard PGs tend to be 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Medium PGs are the size in between standard and miniature Goldendoodles. Medium Goldendoodles weigh 35 to 50 pounds, and they tend to be 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. In addition to standard and medium sizes, PGs can also come in miniature and toy sizes. Miniature Goldendoodles are a bit larger than toy Goldendoodles, and they can weigh between 25 and 35 pounds. Miniature PGs are also 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. On the other hand, toy PGs typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, and they cannot be taller than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Are Phantom Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Like many other Poodle mixes, Goldendoodles are often labeled as being hypoallergenic. There are many different kinds of PGs, from the more common black phantom to the rarer merle phantom. Here we will go into more detail on the different types of phantom Goldendoodles out there. They have a black base coat and phantom markings in another color. There are many different types of black PGs, including black and tan, black and white, black and red, and more. Any base coat color that a Goldendoodle can have can be the color of the phantom markings in a black phantom Goldendoodle. These PGs are usually medium-sized with long hair or short coats depending upon their origin. Silver Phantoms These are a relatively common form of PGs. Silver Phantom Goldendoodles will have a silver base coat and a different secondary color for their phantom markings. Cream and white are the most common secondary coat colors for silver phantoms. However, different secondary colors are technically possible as well Red Phantoms Red phantoms are rarer than black and silver PGs. Red phantoms will have a red base coat, and their phantom markings will usually be in white, cream, or apricot. Chocolate Phantoms Chocolate or brown phantoms are other types of PGs that are relatively rare. These dogs will have a chocolate or darker brown base coat and a lighter secondary color. Usually, chocolate phantom Goldendoodles will have cream, apricot, or white phantom markings. Like the red phantom, you may find that chocolate PGs are more expensive than black or silver phantoms. This is simply because the chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle is on the rarer side. Sable Phantoms A sable coat pattern involves hair that is darker at the roots and lighter at the tips. In Goldendoodles, a sable coat coloration can come in a brown base with red, apricot, blonde tips or a black base with silver tips. Usually, the phantom markings will match the light tips if they are present. Like the other rare Phantom Goldendoodle types, sable phantoms tend to be more expensive and a bit more difficult to find than some of the other more common types of PGs. Brindle Phantoms A brindle coat is a striping of dark and light fur. Sometimes this pattern can appear similar to that of tiger stripes. In Goldendoodles, brindle coats can come in black, chocolate, silver, and red. When the phantom pattern occurs on top of a brindle coat, the phantom markings will usually match the lighter color present in the brindle pattern. Like the sable phantom Goldendoodle, brindle phantoms are considerably rare. As a result, Goldendoodles with a brindle phantom coat tend to be more expensive than black and silver PGs. Merle Phantoms Merles are one of the most popular and sought-after coat patterns for Goldendoodles. This is because their unique marbled coats are genuinely stunning, and these can come in blue, sable, and chocolate merle varieties. When you combine a merle color pattern with the phantom pattern, you get a truly unique dog. Usually, these dogs will have a blue, chocolate, or brindle merle base coat with light tan or apricot markings. Due to how rare and sought-after merle and phantom Goldendoodles both are, you can expect to pay more for a merle PG than for a more common type of phantom. It is important to note that merle Goldendoodles can also come in Parti and tri-colored coat patterns, and these can sometimes be mistaken for the phantom pattern in Goldendoodles. Phantoms will always only have the phantom coat pattern, and they will not have more than two coat colors. As a result, some Goldendoodle coat patterns are out there that could be mistaken for the phantom pattern. This is especially true for those that are new to this designer breed. Some Goldendoodle coat patterns commonly mistaken for the phantom pattern primarily include the Parti and Tri-colored coat patterns. Here we will get into these Goldendoodle coat patterns in more detail. Parti Parti colored Goldendoodles will have a coat with two colors, and one of these colors must be white. Tri-Colored Tri-colored Goldendoodles can appear pretty similar to the phantom in their markings. However, Tri-colored Goldendoodles are not classified as phantoms because their coats contain three colors and not two. Tri-colored Goldendoodles often come in white, black, and a light tan. This is similar to the coats common in Bernedoodles. Where to Buy Phantom Goldendoodles? Most people choose to get their Goldendoodles from a Goldendoodle breeder, especially when searching for a rarer type of Goldendoodle like the phantom. Although there is nothing wrong with getting a dog from a breeder, you should always ensure that the breeder you are purchasing a puppy from is reputable. A reputable Goldendoodle breeder will always health test their adult breeding dogs. These health tests include those that are recommended for purebred Poodles and Golden Retrievers. In addition to health testing, reputable Goldendoodle breeders will always keep both their puppies and adult dogs up to date with things like vaccinations and wellness visits with a vet. In addition to this, you should also see where the puppies and adult breeding dogs are spending most of their time. Ethical and reputable breeders will be more than happy to show you these things, so it is a red flag if they refuse to do so. Although you may have a more difficult time finding a phantom Goldendoodle from a Goldendoodle rescue, it can be a good option for those who feel uncomfortable purchasing a PG puppy from a Goldendoodle breeder. However, it is unlikely that you will find any rare types of PGs such as the merle or sable phantom from these kinds of places. The phantom Goldendoodle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a unique dog with a good-natured personality. As a result, the Goldendoodle can be great for active lifestyles. These dogs also tend to behave well around children and other dogs, making them an excellent choice for a family pet. Gifts for Dog Lovers Do you know someone who loves their dog more than anything? Our selection of gifts for dog lovers is sure to have something perfect for the special person in your life. Phantom coloring is a rare and unique marking for Goldendoodles. If a dog has phantom coloring that means they are two different colors. But phantom coloring is more than just bringing two colors together. The secondary color must be in specific locations for a dog to be considered phantom. Phantom marking, which is sometimes referred to as Dobie marking, is similar to that of a Doberman, Yorkie, or Manchester Terrier. The primary color covers most of the body, head and legs on a Phantom Goldendoodle. The secondary color usually appears above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, and lower parts of the legs, and often inside the ears and under the tail. What colors are Phantom Goldendoodles? While the markings may be similar to the black and tan of a Doberman, the colors of phantom Goldendoodles can vary. Phantom Goldendoodles can come in different color combinations, but the primary color is typically black, Red, Chocolate, or Silver. Black Phantom Goldendoodles may have a secondary color of apricot, red, cream, gray, silver, or brown. The secondary color for red Phantom Goldendoodles and chocolate Phantom Goldendoodles is typically apricot. Silver Phantom Goldendoodles are usually silver and cream. Puppies can be born with certain coloring or markings that change or go away when it becomes an adult. Phantom Goldendoodles do not develop their markings, however. Caring for Phantom Goldendoodles People sometimes wonder if Phantom Goldendoodles are a different breed of dog, or if they have any special needs in terms of care of grooming. It just indicates a unique and very special marking. Phantoms are so rare that we cannot predict when we will have more or how often we will have them. Phantom Goldendoodles have similar patterns to Tuxedo Goldendoodles. What types of Phantom Goldendoodles are there? There are different types of Phantom Goldendoodles whose appearance is greatly influenced by their coloring. Phantom Goldendoodle with a light brown primary coat color image: violet. This means the Goldendoodle can come in various color combinations yet still be considered a Phantom. The common types of the Phantom Goldendoodles include black phantom, silver phantom, red phantom, chocolate phantom, and sable phantom. This type of Goldendoodle comes with a black coat color with a secondary color of either red, cream, gray, silver, apricot, or brown. Black and Cream Phantom Goldendoodle image: Reese. Silver Phantom Goldendoodle The two coat colors are usually silver and cream. The main color is generally paired with the secondary color of cream. Black and silver colored Phantom Goldendoodle image: keathephantomgoldendoodle. Red Phantom Goldendoodle With this type, the main color coat is red for Phantom markings. The red Phantom Goldendoodle is tough to come across. Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle The chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle has a chocolate or dark brown coat as its primary color. Like the red Phantom Goldendoodles, chocolate Phantom Goldendoodles have a secondary color that is often apricot, cream, or white. Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle puppy with tan markings image: campdoodlewoods. Sable Phantom Goldendoodle This type has a coat with black-tipped hair and roots of any solid color. The black tips can appear anywhere on the coat. Sable Phantoms will often look different as adults than they do as puppies. Their fading gene makes their coat lighten to an almost solid color as they age. Usually, their puppy coat is solid black or has markings like a Phantom Goldendoodle. However, as they age, their coat will change rapidly to a white, gray, or light cream color. They are also referred to as tan phantoms. What other colors can Goldendoodles be? Goldendoodles come in different colors than just gold. Common Goldendoodle colors include: black, red, apricot, cream, and white. They can also have patterns such as merle, brindle, phantom, sable, and parti. Red Merle Goldendoodles The Goldendoodle can have a red merle color. Merle is the result of a genetic mutation. Merle Goldendoodles have genes related to those that cause albinism. They can have pink noses and blue eyes. Goldendoodle merles may be found in various color patterns, including silver and red merles. Blue Merle Goldendoodles Another color is the blue merle. Blue or partly blue eyes are common in these puppies. Black Goldendoodles Black Goldendoodles are relatively rare. However, having a black Goldendoodle is more likely if they are mixed in the second generation or third generation. When a black Goldendoodle parent crosses with a black Poodle, the kids almost invariably have black fur. Apricot Goldendoodles Apricot is another color of the Goldendoodles. The coat color will, however, change as the puppies grow old. Puppies from a red parent will typically be red or apricot. This means the color will lighten after the puppies reach ten weeks. Apricot and red are similar. However, red Goldendoodles are much darker, while apricot Goldendoodles have a lighter color. The red gene gets diluted to produce a light yellow or dark cream color, similar to how red Labradors turn yellow. Blue Goldendoodles Blue Goldendoodles are rare to come by. This color is always difficult to identify. It will have a tone that is similar to silver or grey but with a hue that reflects blue. This unique color is inherited from the Poodle. Many people are surprised that there are blue Poodles in existence and Goldendoodles! There are a few more to mention just to make sure we cover them all! White Goldendoodles. Types Of Phantom Goldendoodle Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodle Chocolate Phantom Goldendoodles have a coat with a solid brown background with patches of light beige, tan or apricot on their chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes and on the sides of their muzzle. They are also called Brown Phantom Goldendoodles. While by definition Phantom Goldendoodles have a two-toned coat, the merle patches are considered to be one color with the solid patches as the other. The sable hairs cover most of their body and they have tan patches on their chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes and on the sides of their muzzle. Silver Phantom Goldendoodle Silver Phantom Goldendoodles have a coat with a solid silver background with patches of a lighter grey or cream on their chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes and on the sides of their muzzle. Red Phantom Goldendoodle Red Phantom Goldendoodles have a coat with a solid red background with patches of apricot on their chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes and on the sides of their muzzle. They are extremely rare. They are more expensive than the average Goldendoodle as it is such a rare coat color. Check out the adorable Goldendoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Teacup Goldendoodles are fully grown between 7 and 9 months of age. Toy Goldendoodles are fully grown between 8 and 11 months of age. Mini Goldendoodles are fully grown between 11 and 13 months of age. Medium Goldendoodles are fully grown between 11 and 13 months of age. Standard Goldendoodle are fully grown between 12 and 16 months of age. Teacup Phantom Goldendoodle The Teacup Phantom Goldendoodle is one of the smallest Goldendoodle sizes with the exception of the Micro Goldendoodle that is an inch or two shorter. A Teacup Goldendoodle is usually a multigenerational breed created by breeding two very small Toy Goldendoodles together. They usually breed two Toy Goldendoodles runts to create an increasingly smaller and smaller Goldendoodle size. Teacup Goldendoodles are a controversial size as they have many size related health issues. A Teacup Goldendoodle gets to 8 to 13 inches .They are one of the shortest Goldendoodle sizes where the Micro Goldendoodle is about 1 inch shorter. They are the third smallest Goldendoodle size and are slightly larger than the Teacup and Micro Goldendoodle. Toy Goldendoodles are sometimes referred to as Petite Goldendoodles. A Toy Goldendoodle gets to 10 to 16 inches .They are the middle Goldendoodle size that is slightly larger than the Toy Goldendoodle and smaller than the Medium Goldendoodle. See Also.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.