doberman cross german shepherd puppies

There are a few illnesses that German Shepherd Mastiffs are highly susceptible to. They include: Bloat Bloat is a condition that occurs in Mastiff Shepherds. It is characterized by abnormal swelling of the stomach of dogs. It can lead to death in severe cases. This is a condition that occurs from the loosening of the hip joint in dogs. Large dog breeds, like the German Shepherd, are highly susceptible to this condition. This condition is quite painful in some cases and can lead to limb paralysis. Cataracts Cataracts are a common illness among dogs. It is an age-related condition and mainly occurs gradually as your dog approaches old age. Cataracts can lead to blindness in the long run and are mostly irreversible. The good thing about these diseases is that you can rectify them if they are diagnosed on time. Therefore, you need to take your dog on visits to the vet regularly and ensure it gets quality healthcare. Taking care of your German Shepherd Mastiff Mix involves settling certain areas of its life as well. Some of these areas include: Feeding Exercise Feeding It would certainly help if you gave your Mastiff Shepherd healthy meals , containing essential nutrients it needs to grow well. For example, feed containing high amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and calcium will enable your dog to grow well. Such feed helps your pooch develop healthy tissues, have enough energy for its daily activities, and grow strong bones and teeth. There are also other nutrients your dog needs, such as essential vitamins and minerals. Sometimes, even combining some homemade meals may not provide these. This deficiency is why adding multivitamins to homemade feed once in a while is very beneficial to your pooch. Nevertheless, there is the possibility of you not even having the time or the right ingredients to cook up something nutritious for your canine buddy. Luckily, Pet Plate addresses this deficiency as each meal is freshly prepared and made with high-quality human-grade ingredients. Hygiene Also, periodontitis is a significant issue for dogs in general. It is caused by plaque buildup and can eventually lead to tooth decay. Exercise Your Mastiff Shepherd needs at least 60 minutes of intense activity each day to keep in good shape and reduce its risk of cardiovascular disease. Walking your dog or playing games, like fetch, with it every day will help it reach its daily recommended activity levels. Are German Shepherd Mastiffs Aggressive? Temperaments Of German Shepherd Mastiff Mixes German Shepherd Mastiff Mixes are not aggressive towards their owners, but they can be unwelcoming to strangers and unfamiliar dogs. Generally, the Mastiff Shepherd is a gentle dog that will play with you as often as it can. It is very friendly towards kids and will go to great extents to protect them from any danger it perceives. Nevertheless, your Mastiff Shepherd can be relatively aggressive. This can be because of: The poor temperament of either parent Inadequate training from pet center Negative experience with the previous owner Inadequate training from your end Image from Instagram: hugothebeardog Training German Shepherd Mastiff Mixes are relatively easy to train. They respond well to instructions and always like to carry them out. If you give your commands regularly and reward them with treats for each successful performance, they will pick up what you teach fairly quickly. This hybrid has a very keen memory, so it is improbable that it will forget anything you teach it. Cuddling Yes, Mastiff Shepherds do like to cuddle. They do not object to a warm, lovely hug from you or any of your kids. They may even walk up to you for more. They also like to play a lot, as aforementioned. Do Shepherd Mastiffs Shed? Nevertheless, they can cause allergies from their dander, and hence this hybrid mix is not considered to be hypoallergenic. Mastiff Shepherds can produce dander in relatively large amounts. This can be a terrible thing if you are allergic to dander. Using the FURminator Undercoat Tool , you can do this very quickly without fear of hurting your pooch. Well, there are some other ways to reduce dander in Mastiff Shepherds. They include Cleaning your house daily. Breeds The link has been copied! The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, also known as the Mastiff Shepherd or the German Mastiff Shepherd, is a powerful and captivating crossbreed that combines the best of the German Shepherd and the Mastiff worlds. These gentle giants have been gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts, and it's easy to see why. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the world of the German Shepherd Mastiff mix and explore the traits and characteristics that make these dogs unique. From their strong lineage, including the intelligent German Shepherd and the loyal English Mastiff, to their impressive physical presence, Mastiff Shepherds are truly amazing. As a mixed breed, it's crucial to understand these dogs' specific needs and qualities, whether you're considering adding a purebred German Shepherd, a Mastiff German Shepherd mix, or any other variation to your family. We'll discuss everything from the history of the German Shepherd and Mastiff breeds to the lifespan and potential health issues of the German Shepherd Mastiff mixes, and even address common misconceptions about these dogs, such as whether they are aggressive or not. Join us as we unleash the gentle giant within and discover the wonders of the Shepherd Mastiff cross! This mix has existed since the 19th century, though it is not as popular as other crossbreeds. The German Shepherd Mastiff Mix combines two highly intelligent, loyal, and protective breeds. The German Shepherd is known for its bravery and loyalty and is an excellent guard dog. The Mastiff is known for its gentle nature and the protectiveness of its family. The combination of these two breeds makes for a loyal and protective pet. They typically weigh between pounds and stand between inches tall. They have a double coat which can vary in color from black and tan to red, sable, and white. This breed is intelligent and energetic and requires much exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. They can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and other health concerns, so a vet must check them regularly. The German Shepherd Mastiff Mix is a great family pet, loyal and protective of its family. They are not overly aggressive and can be trained to be obedient and well-behaved. They are also good with children. They make excellent guard dogs and will alert their family to intruders. These dogs are a great choice for dog lovers who want a large, loyal guard dog that is gentle and loving. The Shep-a-Mastiff is a powerful combination of both breeds and is known for its athleticism, agility, and strength. They are typically large dogs, with some reaching up to pounds or more. The Shep-a-Mastiff is a hybrid breed, so there is no guarantee of what the puppies will look like. They usually have the physical characteristics of both species, including a strong and muscular body, a large head and chest, and a long tail. They may also have the coloring of either parent breed. The temperament of a Shep-a-Mastiff will depend on their parent breeds and their upbringing. Generally, these dogs are loyal, loving, and protective. They make great family dogs and are great with children. However, they may be too large and powerful for some, and they can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. As with any large dog breed, a Shepherd Mastiff mix should be properly trained and socialized from a young age. A German Shepherd Mastiff Mix will typically get quite large. The dog's size will depend on the size of the parents and the genetics they pass on. These dogs generally range from 25 to 90 pounds and may reach heights up to 30 inches tall. Typically, they will have the longer coat of the German Shepherd, although the Mastiff parent's skin will also have an influence. Colors can range from tan, grey, and black to brown and red. These dogs are often used as guard dogs and herding due to their protective nature. They are loyal and affectionate and make great family pets, provided they are trained properly. As with any large breed dog, it is important to provide plenty of exercises and regular grooming to help maintain their coat and reduce loose fur. They may also be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so regular check-ups are recommended. Finding a professional dog trainer to work with your dog is also important if you do not have experience with large-breed dogs. If you are looking for a purebred Mastiff, you may also want to look into a Mastiff-Shepherd cross with the same personality traits but a less dominant Mastiff parent. Finally, when looking for a dog sitter or daycare provider, ensure they are experienced with large-breed dogs. Physical Appearance and Size The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, a designer dog bred from the Tibetan Mastiff and the German Shepherd, is a large and striking breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers. This hybrid blends the parent breeds' physical traits, resulting in an impressive and powerful appearance. General appearance The Shepherd Mastiff mix inherits its muscular frame and sturdy build from the German Shepherd and Mastiff breeds. It typically features a strong, broad head with a square muzzle, large eyes, and ears that may be erect or drooping depending on the dominant genes. The tail is usually long and slightly curved, while the legs are strong and well-proportioned to support their large frame. Size and weight As a large dog, the Shepherd Mastiff mix can stand between 25 to 36 inches tall at the shoulder, with males being slightly larger than females. They typically weigh anywhere from 80 to pounds, depending on the size of the parent breeds and individual factors. Remember that this wide range makes it essential for potential dog owners to be prepared for a sizeable canine companion. Coat types and colors The coat of a Shepherd Mastiff mix can vary based on the genetic influence of the German Shepherd and the English Mastiff. The Mastiff Shepherd's coat is generally short to medium in length, dense, and may be straight or slightly wavy. While German Shepherds and Mastiffs can influence coat colors , common colors include black, tan, sable, brindle, and shades of red or fawn. The American Kennel Club doesn't officially recognize mixed dogs like the Shepherd Mastiff mix, so there is no standardization of coat colors. Temperament and Personality The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, often called a Mastiff Shepherd, is a large and impressive breed with a unique combination of temperament and personality traits inherited from its German Shepherd and Mastiff parents. General disposition The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, a hybrid dog with a unique blend of temperament and personality traits, is known for being a gentle giant. This large breed dog inherits the noble and protective nature of the Mastiff parent and the loyal and alert disposition of the standard German Shepherd. Despite their size, these dogs are gentle with their family members and can be good guard dogs when needed. Their folded ears and expressive eyes reveal their affectionate and loving nature. Intelligence and trainability The intelligence and trainability of the German Shepherd Mastiff mix stem from both the German Shepherd and Mastiff parent genes. This makes them highly trainable and eager to learn. Professional dog trainers find these dogs to be quick learners and responsive to commands using positive reinforcement. They excel in obedience and agility training, with their German Shepherd colors shining through as they showcase their skills. However, it's essential to be patient and consistent during training, as their Mastiff side can occasionally make them a bit stubborn. Socialization and bonding Socialization and bonding are crucial aspects of the German Shepherd Mastiff mix's personality. These large breed dogs thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their family members. Early socialization with other dogs, pets, and people is vital to develop their well-rounded personalities. As gentle dogs, they are patient and tolerant of children, making them excellent family pets. Engaging them in activities like playing fetch, hiking, or dog sports can strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner. The ideal home environment The ideal home environment for a German Shepherd Mastiff mix can accommodate their large size and energy levels. A house with a spacious, securely fenced yard is preferred, allowing them to roam and play freely. Due to their loose fur, regular grooming is necessary to shed and maintain a clean living space. The family should be prepared to provide the dog with adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Health and Lifespan The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, also known as the Mastiff Shepherd, is a large and strong breed with a unique blend of qualities inherited from its German Shepherd and Mastiff parents. The health and lifespan of this breed are influenced by various factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall healthcare. Common health issues in the German Shepherd Mastiff mix The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, or Mastiff Shepherd, is prone to certain health issues common in both parent breeds. These issues include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: A prevalent issue in large breed dogs like the German Shepherd Mastiff mix, dysplasia is a genetic condition causing abnormal hip or elbow joint development. This can lead to pain, arthritis, and mobility issues in the long run. Bloat or Gastric Torsion: This life-threatening condition occurs when the dog's stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Like other large and deep-chested breeds, German Shepherd Mastiff mixes are susceptible to bloat. Prompt veterinary intervention is essential if you suspect your dog is experiencing bloat. Regular vet check-ups and monitoring can help manage these conditions. Obesity: Due to their large size, German Shepherd Mastiff mixes may be prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health problems. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly is crucial for their overall well-being. Lifespan and longevity factors The lifespan of a German Shepherd Mastiff mix ranges from 10 to 12 years. However, factors that can influence their longevity include genetics, diet, exercise, and overall healthcare. To ensure a healthy and long life for your Mastiff Shepherd, provide a balanced diet, maintain a consistent exercise routine, and monitor them for any signs of illness or discomfort. Importance of regular vet check-ups and preventative care Regular vet check-ups and preventative care are crucial for the well-being of your German Shepherd Mastiff mix. These visits enable early detection and treatment of potential health issues, ensuring your pet's better quality of life. Aspects of preventative care include: Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations to protect them from preventable diseases. Dental care: Regular dental cleanings and at-home care can help prevent dental issues and related health problems. Parasite prevention: Consult your veterinarian about the best flea, tick, and heartworm prevention methods for your dog. By staying vigilant about your German Shepherd Mastiff mix's health and providing regular veterinary care, you can help ensure your beloved companion's long, happy, and healthy life. Exercise and Activity Requirements 1. Daily exercise needs The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, also known as the Mastiff Shepherd, is a large and energetic breed that requires regular exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. Daily exercise needs for this breed typically include: Walks: Two daily walks of minutes each are recommended to help maintain the dog's stamina and overall health. These walks should be at a moderate pace to accommodate the breed's large size and strength. Playtime: Engaging in play sessions in a securely fenced yard or dog park allows the German Shepherd Mastiff mix to release pent-up energy and strengthen their bond with their owner. Swimming: Some Mastiff Shepherds enjoy swimming, which offers a low-impact exercise option that helps keep their joints healthy and muscles toned. Mental stimulation and enrichment activities Mental stimulation is crucial for the intelligent and curious German Shepherd Mastiff mix. Enrichment activities that challenge their minds and keep them engaged include: Puzzle toys can be filled with treats or kibble, encouraging your dog to solve the puzzle and work for their food. This activity helps prevent boredom and keeps their mind sharp. Obedience training: Regular obedience training sessions at home or with a professional trainer help reinforce good behavior and provide mental stimulation. Scent work: The German Shepherd parent's keen sense of smell can be used through scent work activities like tracking and nose work. Suggested sports and activities for the breed The versatility of the German Shepherd Mastiff mix makes them suitable for a variety of sports and activities: Agility: With proper training, this mixed breed can excel in agility courses, showcasing their speed, strength, and coordination. Mastiff Shepherds can benefit from this program, as it reinforces obedience and socialization skills. Hiking: As a sturdy and strong breed, the German Shepherd Mastiff mix can make an excellent hiking companion. Just be mindful of their joint health and avoid overexerting them. Therapy or service dog work: With proper training and socialization, this breed's gentle and loyal nature can make them suitable for therapy or service dog work. Grooming and Maintenance 1. Coat care and shedding management The German Shepherd Mastiff mix, also known as the Mastiff Shepherd, typically has a medium to long double coat inherited from its German Shepherd parent. This breed requires regular grooming to keep its coat clean and healthy: Brushing: Brush your dog's coat at least times a week using a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Daily brushing may be necessary during shedding seasons usually spring and fall to manage the increased shedding. Bathing: Use gentle dog shampoo to bathe your Shepherd Mastiff mix every weeks or as needed. Frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat, so it's essential not to overdo it. Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care Proper grooming also includes taking care of your dog's nails, ears, and teeth: Nail trimming: Trim your German Shepherd Mastiff mix's nails every weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder, and be cautious not to cut the quick, which can cause pain and bleeding. You can use a scratch board if they do not enjoy being cut. Ear cleaning: Check your dog's ears weekly for signs of redness, irritation, or bad odor, which may indicate an infection. Gently clean their ears with a soft, damp cloth or cotton ball and a dog-specific ear-cleaning solution. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can push debris further into the ear canal. Dental care: Brush your dog's teeth at least times a week using a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay and maintain good oral health. Dental chews and toys can also help keep their teeth clean. Tips for keeping your German Shepherd Mastiff mix clean and healthy To ensure your Shepherd Mastiff mix stays clean and healthy, follow these tips: Regular vet check-ups: Schedule routine veterinary appointments for your dog to monitor their overall health and address any concerns promptly. Flea and tick prevention: Consult with your veterinarian to choose the best flea and tick preventative treatment for your dog. Proper diet: Feed your German Shepherd Mastiff mix a high-quality, balanced diet formulated for large breeds to support their growth, energy needs, and overall health. Exercise and mental stimulation: Provide your dog with regular exercise and mental enrichment to keep them physically fit and mentally sharp. Here are some potential pros and cons of owning this mixed breed: Pros: Loyal and Protective: Both parent breeds are known for their loyalty and protectiveness, making the German Shepherd Mastiff mix an excellent guard dog and family protector. Intelligent: Both German Shepherds and Mastiffs are intelligent breeds, making this mixed breed easy to train and eager to please. Large and Powerful: This mixed breed is likely to be a large and imposing dog, which can be a deterrent to potential intruders. Affectionate: Despite their size and protective nature, German Shepherd Mastiff mixes can also be affectionate and loving with their family. Cons: Health Issues: Both parent breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and other health issues, so it's important to be aware of potential health problems in this mixed breed. Potential Aggression: While German Shepherds and Mastiffs are both protective breeds, this mix can sometimes be aggressive towards strangers if not socialized properly. Exercise Requirements: This mixed breed will require plenty of exercises, which can be challenging for those who cannot provide enough physical activity or space. Shedding: Both parent breeds have thick coats and shed heavily, which can require regular grooming to maintain a healthy coat. Conclusion The German Shepherd Mastiff mix can be a loyal, protective, and affectionate companion for those who are willing to provide the necessary training, socialization, and exercise. However, potential owners should be aware of the potential health issues, shedding, and potential for aggression if not properly socialized. The mix of these two breeds can create a large and imposing dog, making them an excellent guard dog and family protector. By understanding the unique characteristics of this mixed breed, owners can unleash the gentle giant and enjoy a long and happy life with their German Shepherd Mastiff mix. 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. English and French Mastiff German Shepherd mixes are usually the more expensive breeds. Commonly-occurring known health issues Consider the following list of health problems associated with Mastiff Shepherds. Joint problems Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common Mastiff Shepherd joint problems you can expect. These joint problems commonly affect large-sized dogs. German Shepherd Mastiff mix weight is a major factor that affects the severity and onset of joint issues; Mastiff Shepherds are more vulnerable to contracting these problems the bigger and heavier they are. Symptoms include weakness in the hind or front leg areas, avoiding exercise, and displays of aggressive behavior from your Mastiff Shepherd when touching the affected joints. Cherry eye While not always a painful health issue for Mastiff Shepherds, cherry eye can be unsightly and unpleasant aesthetically. In severe cases, Mastiff Shepherds may experience inflammation, swelling, irritation, and dryness in the affected eye which may lead to infection. Bloat Bloat is a digestive issue known to affect Mastiff Shepherds. This can also lead to malnutrition and sudden, unexpected death if left untreated. How can I care for my Mastiff Shepherd? This next section details grooming, care, and exercise habits you will need to develop to keep a healthy and happy Mastiff Shepherd. Tibetan Mastiff mixed with German Shepherd breeds will usually have longer-length coats. However, it should be noted that Mastiff Shepherds are habitual shedders and will need regular coat grooming. Having a vacuum cleaner to clean up loose fur is helpful. Typically, you will need a slicker brush, undercoat rake, and metal comb to properly groom your Mastiff Shepherd. Use long brush strokes to even out its coat and be prepared to groom this dog 2 — 3 times a week. Exercise Despite a German Shepherd Mastiff mix size, it is a relatively docile dog that does not need much exercise. However, because of genetics, this dog can become heavy and overweight if not exercised regularly. Expect to spend a minimum of 30 — 45 minutes briskly walking your Mastiff Shepherd every day to keep it limber and healthy. A German Shepherd Mastiff mix temperament can be likened to that of a stubborn, gentle giant. Read on to get a better idea of what you can expect your Mastiff Shepherd to behave like in this section. But usually, Mastiff Shepherds are very docile, relatively quiet dogs and can be safely left with children unsupervised. The Mastiff parent genes give this dog a more laid-back, patient, and sweet personality. Loyal Loyalty constitutes a major part of a German Shepherd Mastiff mix temperament. Mastiff Shepherds are loyal and very protective of their owners and may seem indifferent or hostile in worst cases towards strangers. They are the offspring of two historically-known guardian parents, which means they need little training to become effective protection and guard dogs. However, if trained and socialized properly, Mastiff Shepherds can be great guardian companions for small or large families. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Overview of Bullmastiff German Shepherd Mix These shepherd mastiff dogs are similar to their parent breeds. They have the-one- and-the-same behavioural patterns and great familiarity. NOTE: The new mixed species of these two most popular breeds can also have a great impact on its temperament, appearances, proneness and genetic susceptibility. Accurately, these large breeds are intelligent and powerful, for they are the best breeds with great personality traits. Bullmastiff german shepherd dogs are very keen on protecting their owners and good at being watchful. Excellent training from the early stage can make the pup intelligent, powerful and a perfect strengthful guarding companion for dog owners. Will this super cool species be the best companion for kids and others? The whole impact is on how you train and bring up your pup beforehand. And this is what matters. Read below, Appearance or Look of the Dog Breed When it comes to the glance of the bullmastiff german shepherd mix, it differs significantly as there are vast variations in mastiff breeds. Bullmastiff dogs can weigh about kg as their height is cm. German shepherds would weigh about 40 kg and a height of 65 cm. So, most probably, your bullmastiff german shepherd mix can weigh about kg lbs and grow to a height of about cm 1. The appearance of this hybrid dog may vary from other breeds. You can expect your german mastiff mix to have either a black or a red coat. There might be a mix of brown and grey like sandy silver as well, and rarely you could find brindle coats. You must have a thorough knowledge of this mixed dogs shedding process as these breeds are regular shedders. This might be a hindrance for the owners of the dogs, often shedding itself. Have a good study on these issues and clear out the facts regarding this matter before making this large breed your canine companion. Is Grooming required For this Mixed Breed? Usually, the coat of this mixed breed is thick and either lengthy or short. Typically this hybrid breed is of two kinds, and their grooming differs. If your dog is more like a german shepherd, it must get on-and-off slicker brushes touching its coat. But bullmastiffs neither need grooming nor shedding. These hounds have short and oily coats but need bathing on-and-off to smell if they skip baths. Yeah, this question is pretty much fair, right! So if that is the case, make sure you brush them often and bathe once a week as well. Significantly, you must also take your pup to groomers to remove the undercoat twice a year. Medium length coat grooming Your dog is not forced to be groomed daily but does it seldom if it has a medium-length coat. You can use a pin brush and comb your tyke and make your doggie bath whenever needed. Twice a month will be sufficient. Short coat grooming An easy coat to be groomed, though. Monthly baths are more than sufficient for short-coated dogs. Better groom your pooch before taking a bath with a quick brush. Personality Of bullmastiff german shepherd mix Generally, the temperament of every dog may vary from one another. To be considered, this shepherd mastiff dog breed is unique. They are powerful, personable and people-pleasing. Look below some of the great personality traits hybrid dogs possess, Loyal The well-known guardians in the universe. Certainly, this dog breed is really very keen on guarding its owners. Loyalty affects temperament as it composes it. They act the vice-versa towards the strangers. They are extraordinarily loyal in protecting their family, and if trained well, they will be the best protective agent for your family. Gentle Mastiff dogs are kind-hearted and possess a sweet personality. No harm, you can leave your kids with this pretty kind canine companion unsupervised. Literally, they are loyal and gentle towards people who are close to them. Is training Important For bullmastiff german shepherd mix? Generally, bullmastiff german shepherd mixes tend to work hard, and if they are given immense love and care with proper efforts, your dogs are going to be the best hound like no other. This dog breed is easy to be trained for it neutralizes energy and has a patient attitude with an intelligent mind. Basically, you are going to find both courageous as well as the strong and pleasant characteristics of the two popular dog breeds onto one breed. So proper and immense training must be carried out. If left unattended, these german shepherd mix-breeds might grow wild and cause a mishap, and you will have to face the chaos. Ineffectual pet parents cannot afford to take this puppy as their pet. You will have to spend plenty of your precious time to train and socialize with your puppy. Go on training your shepherd mastiff puppies from the time you become its parent. Teaching your puppies to socialize and love and care is essential to turn out your hound into a pleasing tyke. Articles you may like: Training Commands for German Shepherd Basic facts about Mastiff Shepherds There is some necessary information to consider if you are planning to make this large dog breed your canine companion. Average Life Span The statistical probability of this shepherd mastiff mix is about 7 plus years or years. Joint problems Joint problems occur due to a lack of exercises. Hip and elbow dysplasia are frequently affecting joint issues of the german shepherd mix. Symptoms could be: aggressive behaviour when touched in a particular painting area joints , avoids workout or daily walks and weakness in front leg areas. This occurs when the third eyelid of your dogs falls out of place. Your shepherd mastiff might go through inflammation, irritation, dryness and swelling in the affected area, which could result in infections. Bloat Bloat is a health issue related to the digestion of your dog. Lack of nutritions may occur, and if not treated, your dog could lose its life. To Finish it Up Conclusion Bullmastiff german shepherds are an amazing breed that a wise pet parent can train. With proper training, exercises and diet, you can own a mysterious canine companion. This can be the best guardian for a big family. Remember all that you have to do to turn your dog into the ultimate hound. Consider the health issues before owning a shepherd mastiff, and make sure you have a thorough knowledge of grooming your pup. And be vigilant on how to train your shepherd mastiff and develop its personality traits. I hope my article gives you a piece of knowledge on this account. No, Bullmastiffs are not typically aggressive or dangerous, however they should not be left unattended with small children as their rock-hard body can cause serious damage with even a small nudge. Are Bullmastiffs Good Family Dogs? Bullmastiffs are excellent family dogs, known for their easy-going attitude and affectionate nature towards their family members. Are Mastiffs Good With Kids? Yes, Mastiffs are known to be good with well-behaved kids. The German Shepherd Mastiff mix is a large breed of dog, typically weighing between lbs and standing at 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Start by asking your veterinarian if they know of reputable breeders that mix purebred German Shepherds and Mastiffs, or visit professional dog shows or local breed clubs. They can become overweight easily if not exercised regularly. Though not considered high-energy dogs, if German Shepherd and Mastiff mixes are allowed to live a life of leisure, they can easily become heavy, which can create other health concerns. As puppies, they would rather sleep and laze the day away than do anything else. Puppyhood is the time to start working with your dog and encouraging play and interaction. In fact, your dog may become bored and listless unless they are doing something productive. Even though the Mastiff does like to take it easy, they still like to be needed and have a job to do. German Shepherds always like jobs that require using their brains, such as herding or hunting. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs love children and will be patient and treat them gently when playing with them. Mastiffs are known for their gentle mouths and being able to carry delicate objects. But it is good to socialize your puppy with small animals carefully, or an accidental tussle with the cat may be inevitable. His father was a purebred Mastiff , weighing approximately lbs. He is now 2. He stands 6 ft. He is a wonderful dog. He has an amazing temperament. He's very laid back and so gentle with our small children. He lays on his side patiently if the baby approaches him with his favorite toy.He dismisses the toy completely and licks fingers and toes and loves to be the jungle gym. Otherwise, he likes to lay near the children during group play and just be near them. If they are playing outside, he patrols the perimeter of the yard and redirects children who get too close to the perimeter by walking in front of them until they forget where they are going and turn around LOL. He loves to lounge around, but when he gets outside he loves tug of war, playing with tennis balls and big tree branches! But his favorite toy is the laser pointer. He is very intelligent. When I was pregnant he would always lick my belly. Any time I am sick in the bathroom, he comes and lays his head on my lap until I am done, and then he licks my tears away : same for the kids. He is such a sweet boy. On top of all of this, he is so alert to his surroundings. And if an " intruder " shows up to the house while I am away, he makes it clear they aren't welcome. We had our friend test this theory gladly and we were all pleased with the result! He is our most beloved pet. He is active enough to play but not too demanding and destructive. He loves to snuggle but is also very independent, alert but does not bark incessantly, great natural protective instincts but not overzealous and knows when to protect and when to let the alphas be in charge. He is a definite gentle guardian over small children and even the cat and chickens. He has a pretty low prey drive also.Not to mention he just looks cool as hell : I'm not worried about intruders. What are the origins of the parent breeds? A German Mastiff is another possible nickname but more often describes the Great Dane. German Shepherds have a prominent working background The German Shepherd is a relatively new mastiff breed. German Shepherds did not come into their own as a distinct breed until with ex cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz and a medium yellowish sable dog named Hektor Linksrhein from Karlsruhe. However, many Thuringian types were too aggressive, prey-driven, and intense to be good working dogs. The Mastiff is an ancient breed There are several types of german shepherd and mastiff, but the variation people most commonly associate with the German Shepherd mix is the Mastiff with English roots. Other possibilities are as follows. Neopolitan Mastiff — Creates a more aggressive mix Cane Corso — A quick and agile mix with frequent blue and black and tan offspring Dogue de Bordeaux Tibetan Mastiff — Rare mix The English german shepherd and mastiff, usually just Mastiff, may have ancestors in the Roman gladiator arena dogs who fought bears and lions as early as the s BC. Scientists have not yet proven an ancestral link. Mastiffs likely received further influences from the Alaunt of the Normans around AD. Many of them and their parent breeds also succumbed to distemper. The revival of the breed involved a lone surviving female and about 15 other dogs. The female, named Nydia of Frithend , may have been part Bull Mastiff, and subsequent matches to preserve the Mastiff breed included outcrossing with Saint Bernards, a Dogue de Bordeaux, and possibly others. Historically, Mastiffs served as catch dogs for wild game, namely boars, and as guard dogs for estates. They also battled in wars, baited bulls, participated in dogfights, and guarded livestock through various phases of their evolution. What does the German Shepherd Mastiff Mix look like? Your German Shepherd Mastiff mix will receive physical traits to varying degrees from both parents. From German Shepherd The German Shepherd is about 22 to 26 inches high at the shoulders with a long, powerful neck, and strong sloping shoulders. She is somewhat longer than tall and weighs between 50 and 95 pounds. Show and working lines differ in the slope from withers to hips, conformation champions usually illustrating exaggerated hind leg or pelvic angles. The head of the German Shepherd is large but noble with a somewhat square but long muzzle and upright ears. German Shepherds have a thick double coat that is usually short or medium in length. They also have a long bushy tail. Experts classify German Shepherd colors as standard, faulted, or disqualified. All washed-out and dilute colors such as cream, blue, Isabella, and liver are serious faults in sanctioned AKC conformation classes. Standard colors are the classic black and tan and red and tan, bicolor, solid black, red sable, and wolf grey or agouti. Many Shepherds have s black facial mask. Looks From Mastiffs The Mastiff, as his name implies, should look impressive in size. Mastiffs stand .Females can be much smaller than males without penalties as long as they still appear powerful. Mastiffs are almost square with a level back, broad powerful chest, and a massive head. The ears are relatively small and folded and the eyes wide-set. Unlike German Shepherds, Mastiffs have a short, broad, and very deep muzzle. Their tails are rather short and thick and rope-like. Acceptable colors for Mastiffs are fawn, apricot, and brindle. Fawn can range from cream to silvery tan, and apricot is any shade of red from light orange to deep reddish-brown. All Mastiffs, even brindle dogs, should have black facial masks. Show ring judges prefer brindle dogs to have uniform striping, but the bands are often less distinct. Incomplete striping, or reverse brindle, is a serious fault if not a disqualification for a Mastiff. Nonstandard colors are rare and include blue, chocolate, pied, and cream. German Mastiff Appearance Your German Mastiff will be a large dog from 25 to 36 inches tall that weighs 80 to pounds. Expect your Shepherd Mastiff cross to be barely longer than tall with a moderate brush on the tail. Brindle, if the genes are present, is dominant to any agouti colors which include fawn, sable, black and tan, bicolor, and recessive black. Fawn is dominant over the other agouti colors. Therefore, your German Mastiff will most likely be fawn or brindle and have a black mask. However, recessive black is a rare trait in the Mastiff. It can appear in a puppy who also receives a recessive black gene from the German Shepherd parent. Uncommonly, your pup could be black and tan or chocolate. What should you know about German Shepherd Mastiff Mix temperament? German Shepherds and Mastiffs both have distinct personalities, and your mix can show an unpredictable blending of the two types. Shepherd mastiff mix temperament is explained below Guard Potential German Shepherds have shown flock protectiveness that extends to the household and family from their earliest working days. Historical breeders selected for dogs with a guarding instinct and German Shepherds quickly became one of the primary breeds for guard dogs duty in homes. The German Shepherd continues to be a top guard dog choice. Despite its reputation, no German Shepherd should be an indiscriminate biter, given to unprovoked attacks. A German Shepherd should have a solid character that is fearless and unwavering but give plenty of warning before a justified act of aggression. You can usually attribute inappropriate aggression in Shepherds to certain family lines poor breeding , improper socialization, abuse, or neglect lack of meaningful attention. While historically territorial and protective of home and property as well as ferocious in war, modern Mastiffs have seen selection for level-headedness and docility. Most people consider them intimidating but gentle giants. Nevertheless, they make excellent watchdogs. Mastiffs will protect family members if they sense a threat. A Mastiff, like several other breeds, often takes his behavioral cues from his owner. If you are relaxed and friendly, your Mastiff will treat your guests cordially. Shepherd mastiff usually move between perceived danger and their owner, according to Thedogplace. Her huge size makes it rare that a Mastiff has to attack. She also has a formidable bark to deter ill intent. Like German Shepherds, Mastiffs have certain family lines that are predisposed to shyness or atypical aggression. Your German Mastiff should be friendly with strangers or slightly aloof. She will remain relaxed as long as she perceives a cordial relationship between you and your guests. Although intimidating and equipped with ferocious threat posturing, your mix should be very unlikely to bite. Your German Shepherd Mastiff mix will most of the time be an extremely effective watchdog. Occasional individuals will also be good guard dogs, although you can train the majority of them for some type of protective work. According to Vetstreet. Nevertheless, their large size necessitates your supervision at all times around small pets and little kids. German Shepherds readily learn that children and other animals in the household warrant their protection. They tend to be tolerant and even gentle around toddlers. However, German Shepherds do not necessarily extend kindness to anyone outside the family circle and often exhibit aggression against other dogs and suspicion towards strange children. Some have a strong drive to chase moving objects. Use caution with your Shepherd mix around other animals and children until you can gauge her disposition. Most will be fine if you supervise them around children and dogs within your household. Does a German Shepherd Mastiff Mix shed a lot? German Shepherds and Mastiffs are year-round moderate shedders and your mix will not be much different. Like Mastiffs and Shepherds, your dog will do well in cold weather as long as not for prolonged periods under 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Your hybrid will probably not do as well in warm weather as a purebred German Shepherd. With their shortened snouts and large size, some Mastiffs can be sensitive to the heat. Mastiffs only need weekly brushing while German Shepherds require you to brush them up to four times a week. Your Shepherd Mastiff mix will have a moderately dense double coat with possible fringes and ruffs on some parts. She will require you to brush her probably two or three times a week and every day when she is shedding her undercoat. What are German Shepherd Mastiff Mix health concerns? Your German Shepherd Mastiff mix is likely to live eight to twelve years, a little longer than many giant breeds. Dogs from Shepherd and Mastiff ancestry most commonly suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, bleeding disorders, obesity, and urinary tract infections which lead to bladder stones. Hip and elbow dysplasia starts during growth and can lead to crippling arthritic changes later. Overnutrition in puppies is a leading risk factor in dogs with the genes for dysplasia. Improper exercise and obesity can increase the severity of developmental disorders. Large- and giant-breed dogs are exceptionally susceptible to bloat because of their deep chests and the volume of food they must eat. How much exercise should you give your German Shepherd Mastiff Mix? German Shepherds require two hours of daily exercise, while Mastiffs only need 40 to 60 minutes. Your German Shepherd Mastiff mix will be happy and healthy with 45 to 90 minutes of activity a day. It is always ideal to split exercise sessions into at lease two intervals a day. German Shepherd mixes require periods of strenuous exercise to keep up with their high energy levels. Mastiff Shepherds will probably not have quite the speed and grace of pure German Shepherds, but they should still perform well in agility, tracking, and Shutzhund. Many of them will also do well in some military operations, drug-sniffing, physical assistance, and search and rescue. What can you learn about intelligence and training? While pet owners actively seek German Shepherds for their intelligence and reputed obedience, Petrix. Indeed, Mastiffs have a reputation for stubbornness. You can expect your German Shepherd Mastiff to have better responsiveness, obedience, and working drive than a purebred Mastiff. Note the fawn color and picture-perfect black facial mask. The size of a German Shepherd Mastiff mix can vary greatly. However, these are typically big dogs! You can expect these mixed breeds to reach between 1. They will usually weigh between 80 to pounds or 36 to 91kg, making them heavy german shepherd dogs too! It will depend on their parents and whether they have been mixed with other breeds in the past. Of course, their lineage goes a long way into determining their size, but usually, as fully grown adults, these are big german shepherd dogs that are sure to be the big spoon every night! How long do German Shepherd mastiffs live? German Shepherd Mastiffs tend to live for between nine to eleven years. However, it is common for large breed german shepherd dogs to have a shorter life expectancy than shorter dogs, mainly due to their size and health complications. When mixed to become German Shepherd Mastiff mixes, that life expectancy is shortened to eleven years maximum. You will, of course, find some dogs that will live longer than this suggestion, but these are few and far between. Your Mastiff mix can live for up to eleven years relatively problem-free! Their health and lifestyle will also determine their life expectancy. What do you call a german shepherd mastiff mix? You can call a German Shepherd Mastiff mix a German Shepherd Mastiff mix, or you can refer to them with some of their other names. If you use any of those names when talking to a dog or breed enthusiast, chances are they will know what you are talking about! Whichever of these names that you use is perfectly fine and clearly describes these beautiful cross breeds well. When it comes to deciding on a name for your German Shepherd Mastiff mix, you can use any name you see fit. What does a Mastiff German Shepherd mix look like? What Mastiff German Shepherd mixes look like does vary from dog to dog. This is mainly due to the variety of Mastiffs which will dictate and change the appearance of these dogs. Once fully grown, they can look very different from one another. Typically, these dogs will have large paws, a robust muzzle, and folded ears. As we saw from their size, they tend to be large dogs with large abdomens and a soft coat. Their coat color also varies too from light to dark, with many being ginger or brunette. The length of their coat also varies, with many being long if not regularly groomed. No matter their appearance, these mixed dogs are always beautiful creatures and are sure to be welcome additions to your home. So why not check out some pictures of these beautiful dogs and prepare to cry at their cuteness?

Boxers have large heads, even before birth. In addition, some bitches give birth early. Recognizing the signs of impending birth are key to a healthy birth for the bitch and the pups. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Your vet is your best ally in a healthy birth. You should take the dog after mating to ensure that it is pregnant. Around 40 or 50 days after mating, your vet should order an x-ray of the developing pups. The vet will help you count the number of heads so that you know how many pups are in the litter. As the puppy develops, it lays calcium in the bones. The more calcium in each bone, the clearer it shows up in the x-ray. According to Phi Vestavia, a U. If enough calcium is present in the legs to see the tibia, then the puppies may be born in 48 hours. These times are not hard and fast rules. The health of the bitch and puppies can alter the time frame. Measure the dogs food after eating. According to Belire Boxers, a U. Prior to going into labor, the boxer will become restless. It may go to the prepared whelping box, tear the paper or bedding material, and form a nest for the birth. The dog may shiver or pant as its body prepares for labor Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. It is very difficult to determine individual bones when the dog is pregnant with several puppies. The vet will also look for any stillborn or stunted pups that may pose a birth risk for the mother or puppies. Warnings Call the vet if the dog seems to be in distress, goes through all the signs of labor with no result or you have any questions. Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. Items You Will Need. Step 1 Develop a timeline for whelping. Dogs typically gestate for 63 days, but larger breeds such as boxers may whelp a day or two early. Step 2 Schedule your female for a pre-whelping exam at least 10 days prior to the whelping date. Your vet will examine your dog to make sure she is healthy and will tell you how many puppies to expect. Step 3 Prepare the whelping area the week before your dog is due. Select a quiet room, such as an extra bedroom or guest bathroom. The pool makes an excellent whelping box, since it allows the female to climb in and out but keeps the puppies inside. Erect a heat lamp over one side of the pool to keep the newborn litter warm when the mother gets up to eat or take a potty break. Step 4 Observe your boxer carefully for the first stage of labor. Your dog may pace, dig and circle around in the whelping box to prepare a safe nest for the impending puppies. Boxers tend to be a little nervous during labor, so clear the room of any other pets and people. Step 5 Watch your dog for signs that labor is advancing. The dog may lay down and get up repeatedly, pant, pace or lick her vulva as she starts having contractions. You may be able to see her abdomen tighten and relax in increasingly frequent waves as the contractions increase. Step 6 Stand clear of the whelping box as your boxer starts to deliver. The first puppy will appear with the thin placental membrane still covering its body. The female should break the sac and lick the puppy clean to stimulate breathing. Tear it gently with clean hands and rub the puppy with a dry towel. Step 7 Wait for your boxer to bite the umbilical cord before moving the puppy under the heat lamp. Snip the cord with a pair of sharp scissors and dab a little iodine over the cord to prevent infection. Step 8 Monitor the remainder of the birthing process. The female may rest slightly between puppies but should not take more than 60 minutes to deliver the next puppy. Boxers have very angular pelvises, and puppies may get stuck in the birth canal. If your dog appears to be straining with no evidence of another puppy coming, or in any distress, call your veterinarian immediately. More Articles. Boxer Pregnancy Signs of Pregnancy Whether you are purposely and carefully breeding your female Boxer or you think your Boxer may be pregnant due to an unplanned tie, it is important to notice the subtle signs as soon as possible. It will only take 9 weeks 63 days, on average for your Boxer to go from conceiving to having her puppies; it is vital to give her special care as soon as you know she is expecting. The signs of Boxer pregnancy are not glaringly obvious immediately. However, you'll know, just by the physical changes, within the first two to three weeks. You'll take a step back and wonder, "Does her stomach look a bit rounded out? She may begin to show dominance around the home; to other pets and even try to show this to her owners She may be moody; wanting to be left alone and rest as opposed to her normal wanting to play, etc. Possible decreased appetite at first, then a heartier appetite by week 3. Confirming if a Boxer Dog is Pregnant Typically, there are no outward signs during the first two weeks. A female may start to show signs by week 3. And it will not be until week 3 that a pregnancy can be confirmed by the veterinarian. There are several different types of tests that can be done. Blood test: This is the test that will let you know as early as possible; it is accurate starting on day .Ultrasound: This is accurate starting on day 28 and is not usually performed if a blood test was conclusive unless the veterinarian suspects possible issues. Palpation: This refers to a vet manually feeling the abdomen. An experienced vet should be able to tell by day .X-rays: These will not be conclusive until day 42, because until this time bones of the fetuses have not calcified enough. These are often taken a week or so before the expected due date to confirm how many puppies to expect. Special Care During the Pregnancy From the time that you learn your Boxer is pregnant to several weeks after the birthing of the pups, your dog will need special care. Her increased appetite after week 3 will be the most obvious sign and the one that you will need to tend to. A Boxer in this state will normally eat about 3 times the amount she normally does. Although she will be eating more in the last 3 weeks, be sure to spread out meals 3 to 5 times per day so that bloat does not occur. Do not give her additional calcium. This has been linked to eclampsia a sometimes fatal drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing dams , difficult deliveries, soft tissue calcium deposits in the puppies, and certain joint abnormalities in the pups. Too much of these can cause birth defects in the puppies. Look for any discharge and report even a small amount to the vet. It can be a sign of a very serious infection including pyometra, which an be deadly if not treated. Do not be surprised if your Boxer's stomach does not appear to be too big. A large Boxer carrying a small litter will not have that much of a drooping stomach. Keep her exercising with daily walks; it is important to keep her in good shape. This can be curtailed for the last week, as she should be inside and resting. Knowing it is Time Your Boxer's veterinarian can tell you exactly how far along your dog is via an ultra sound or x-ray. Knowing that the day is approaching, beginning on day 55 you can take your dog's temperature. This is done rectally. A dog's normal temperature is .When her temperature goes down to 98 F .Setting up a Whelping Box A whelping box is the area that you will prepare for your dog to give birth. It must be a confined area that: Is placed in a quiet area; once she gives birth, she will nest here to nurse her puppies. Has at least 15 layers of sheets on the floor of the box. As she goes through the delivery process, you can roll up and put each layer into a large, strong trash bag. This will create new, fresh sheets throughout the delivery. Crumbled up or shredded newspaper can be placed on top of the sheets and in between the layers. You may also put some blankets. Expect this to be a very messy area. Keep the room warm. Additional heat must be supplied to keep the newborn puppies warm. Many owners use heating pads, placed under a blanket. The optimal temperature is 85 F .Tips for Whelping What you should do when your dog gives birth? While this is a natural process of life, an owner should never make an attempt to go this alone. You must prepare yourself: Trim your nails very short, file them so that they are smooth Take all rings off of your fingers Put on clothes that you have no problem with throwing away afterwards Your Boxer will not want to eat right before she is ready. Do not try to force feed her. Keep all other pets, especially a male dog, out of the room. Allow her to lay down in the whelping box. Contractions will begin. Do not panic if your Boxer cries while giving birth; this is natural although a bit heartbreaking. Keep in mind that it is temporary. Do not attempt to give her any medication. As each puppy begins to crown, be ready in case you need to help pull them out. If you do, your grasp but be firm yet gentle. If a part of the puppy is showing, hold on to it so that it is not pulled back in. Allow nature to work, but if a pup is truly stuck you will then need to step in and help. Each of the Boxer puppies will have a thin sac surrounding them and will be attached by the umbilical cord. Normally, the dam will tear away the sac, bite the cord and lick the puppy. If she does not do this, it is time to step in. Carefully remove the sac, using sterilized thread cut the cord by tying the thread around it and pulling on each end. Rub the puppy to stimulate blood flow and breathing. If the puppy has difficulty making it to the dam, help him or her reach her to suckle. Your Boxer's veterinarian should have been able to tell you how many puppies were due. However, to make sure, after what you believe is the last puppy to come out, feel your Boxer's stomach. You should be able to feel if there is another pup inside. Once the last puppy has been born, remove the mess. Take away the sheets until you have a clean area. Lay down more blankets. Allow both dam and puppies to be left alone. Do not try to cuddle a newborn puppy. His or her place must be with the dam. The dam will be producing colostrum during the first few days. This is a highly nutritional fluid that supplies the puppies with antibodies to fight against infection and disease. Keep an eye out for any puppy who does not seem to be getting this nutrition. Your Boxer may not want to eat right after giving birth. Allow her a day or 2 to get back into an eating schedule. She should have a rather big appetite during the time that the pups are suckling. When to Call the Vet - Emergency Situations While we all hope that the birth of puppies happens without complications, one must be prepared in the case of emergency. Your Boxer's veterinarian should be called when your dog is about to deliver. It is so much better to be safe than sorry. Black Boxers - There are certainly Boxer dogs that appear to be black. However, bloodlines suggest that this color cannot exist in the breed. Photos and information.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. They are playful and loyal. Although Boxers were originally bred as working dogs, they make the perfect family pet. Boxers are different from each other but one trait that all Boxers have in common is their playfulness. Boxers, whether they're puppies or ones in their senior years, possess a youthful exuberance that is unmatched by any other breed of dog. Boxers have the natural ability to make their masters smile and fill a household with fun and laughter. Natural Born Entertainers Ask Boxer owners about what they think would be the most fitting profession or job for Boxer dogs and they'd likely tell you that Boxers make the perfect clowns. Boxers are natural entertainers wiggling, wagging and doing their funny antics. If you've ever been around a Boxer, you'll find it very hard to keep yourself from grinning. Put a Boxer in a room with someone in a bad mood and it will waste no time showing off its tricks to make a person laugh. One of the more familiar tricks Boxers are known for is kidney beaning, a dance they do whenever they are excited. No owner could resist smiling whenever he comes home after a hard day's work and sees his Boxer doing this dance. It isn't a bark although it is similar. Boxers are natural entertainers even when they are running. Don't be surprised to see a Boxer twist, jump and even do summersaults while it is out on a walk. However, Boxers aren't for everyone. If you're looking for a dog that will lie quietly at the foot of your bed or sleep most of the day, a Boxer is not the dog for you. Boxers are very energetic and they need plenty of attention. If a Boxer doesn't get adequate exercise every day, it can turn to doing destructive things or find ways to entertain itself like chewing on shoes. Boxers need to be walked or jogged twice a day at the minimum. In addition, they need mental stimulation. If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. Be sure the application is filled out in its entirety. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Fights are happening, resulting in injuries to both dogs. Bailey is very sweet, current on vaccines, and spayed. She has been ok with male boxers so we will consider placing her with a sweet boy, who loves to play. Bailey has no history with young children. She is currently taking Prozac and Trazadone at the advice of a trainer who claimed it would help to keep her from panting in her crate. Shame on this vet who willy nilly dished out these drugs to a 13 month old dog, without asking why!! Bailey needs a committed home, with an understanding of the needs of an adolescent boxer. She should attend positive based training with her new humans. Bailey would love a fenced in yard, in addition to lots of walks and continued socialization. If you are interested in this girl, please apply! Where do your boxers come from? Many of our boxers are owner surrenders. Perhaps the owner purchased the dog on impulse, not understanding the needs of a boxer. Sometimes, financial situations change, and families are not able to care for the dog anymore. We also take dogs that have been brought to shelters around New England. If a shelter reaches out for help, we do our best to find placement for the boxer in need. Lastly, we have a wonderful relationship with boxer rescue in Puerto Rico, and we work closely with them to bring boxers in need, from the island, to New England. All of our boxers are temperament tested and evaluated before coming into rescue. It should be noted that ALL dogs require a decompression period when going to a new home. Can I adopt a female dog if I already have a female dog? The short answer is no. Our experience in placing dogs, has shown us that placing two females together is oftentimes not the best long term situation. We receive many calls from owners needing to surrender their female boxers because there is fighting with another female dog in the house. Either way, the fighting is often brutal and bloody. We have adopted a policy to never place two female dogs in the same house. Are your boxers healthy? They are brought up to date on vaccines, tested for heartworm, and spayed or neutered unless too young or not medically able to be. Their vet records are provided upon adoption. Do I need to have a fenced in yard to adopt a boxer? We do not require a fenced in yard for all of our boxers. We look at each dog, individually, and based on the needs of that dog, we may require fencing. Please note that we do not consider an electric fence to be a proper method of containment and are not able place a dog in a home that uses electric fencing. Do you have a shelter where I can come meet the boxers? We are not a shelter and do not have a physical location where you can meet our adoptees. Most boxers will stay with their owners or shelter until we can secure a foster or adoptive home for them. What Are Your Adoption Fees? Look no further! We have a network of trusted breeders who ensure that our puppies are healthy, happy, and ready to be your new furry best friend. What are Boxer puppies? Boxer puppies trace their origin to 19th-century Germany, where they were developed as versatile working dogs. Around the mids, German breeders aimed to create a loyal and courageous dog capable of performing various tasks. They crossed Bullenbeissers with Bulldogs and selected for traits like strength, intelligence, and agility. The result was the Boxer we know today. Boxers quickly gained popularity as police and military dogs due to their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC in , solidifying their status as a distinct breed. Over time, Boxers transitioned from working roles to beloved companions and show dogs. Their friendly demeanor, boundless energy, and affectionate nature make them cherished family pets worldwide. The origin of Boxer puppies is a testament to the careful breeding and selection that have crafted a breed known for its remarkable combination of strength, intelligence, and affection. Temperament of Boxers Boxers are known for their playful and energetic temperament. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and love to learn new things. Boxers are loyal and protective of their family, making them great watchdogs. They are also affectionate and make great companions for children and adults alike. With proper training and socialization, Boxers make great family pets. We offer a vast selection of healthy and happy Boxer puppies that will make excellent family pets. With our commitment to quality and affordability, we make it easy for you to find your new furry best friend. About Vincent Hello! Are you looking for a lifelong companion? Look no further. I am here and just perfect for you. Trust me! I am very loyal, and I can make you smile with just the way I wag my tail. I have a wonderful disposition. Oh, silly me! Well, choose me today!

These two breeds are very entertaining and love to please their owners. Both breeds are such clowns and are very comical. Very small in size but with the heart of any big dog. Both breeds are very loving and will have you laughing for days. They are such clowns and love the attention. We occasionally will produce other colors such as brindles, creams, whites and other colors also. Most of our frenchies are of Russian and Hungarian decent. We love these babies as if they were our own kids so producing a healthy sound pup is our main goal. All pups will be checked by a certified vet before being transported to its new loving home. They are all AKC registered coming from some of the best bloodlines sought after today. We strive to pair our clients with their perfect doggie sole mate. By owning and caring for our own babies we know the connection and joy that frenchies give to their new parents. All pups come with a 1 year health guarantee against any life threatening illness. We have a very strict breeding program and all breedings are strategically planed with genotype and phenotype in mind. We mainly produce dilutes blues dd, but we also produce on occasion chocolates bb pups also. Financing Finance Your Pet Today! Financing is available for our valued puppy parents! We partnered up with Lending USA to provide this incredible financing option available to just about everyone! The secure application is provided by Lending USA and your decision is emailed in less than business days. This can be a great way to buy your new bulldog puppy today and spread the payments out over time! They are amazing breeders, and the puppies are so beautiful and healthy. Chubba Chubba Choo is almost a 1. Jason and Michelle run a successful business with healthy pups that are loved from day one. I highly recommend them!!! His puppies are gorgeous and I promise your heart will tug at you to bring more than one home. The mama dogs were so happy, sweet, pretty and just wanted your attention. The puppies were adorable, healthy and competing for you to play with them. Not one of those dogs ignored you and didn't want to be the center of attention. You could tell they all had great personalities and were very social. Puppychase is Bulldog Heaven! I was very satisfied with the purchase of our puppy. The environment is clean, cool and does not smell. That's hard to accomplish with so many dogs. The Bulldogs are well cared for and the property shows they are a top priority. I can't imagine not being pleased with any dog from Puppychase. The only regrets I have are not being able to take more puppies and I wish I could have seen the male Bulldog in person. I didn't even think to ask. Maybe next time! I have had 3 Bulldogs from PuppyChase. Chester 13 yrs old, Henry 8, and Gus 15 wks. Chester died 2 wks ago. Jason is so knowledgeable and loves his Bulldogs. The health and personalities of his dogs are perfect! The hardest part is picking which one. He uses a flight nanny to ensure the safety of these little guys which allows families from all over U. S A to have a dog from PuppyChase. What a beautiful home and kennel he has in Georgia. Thank you Jason and Michelle! Keep up the great work with breeding English Bulldogs and giving families and experience of a lifetime of owning and loving these beautiful dogs!!! I would highly recommend. Jason and Michelle are dedicated to ensuring their pups and litters are taken care of! Their pups have the best disposition!! Exceptional customer service and will go above and beyond to accommodate your needs. New to the breed? Will definitely make our way back to PuppyChaseKennels. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? Atlanta Bulldog breeders will choose what price to charge for each pup by taking into account a few factors. The markings and coat color of each pup will play a part, as will their eye color. Rarer combinations will cost more. The price of any Bulldog for sale in Dallas will also depend on the reputation, location, and experience of their breeder. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Atlanta right now? Once you find your dream pup, you can start making travel arrangements - so before you know it you could be meeting your new doggo at your local major airport! How do you screen Bulldog breeders Atlanta? What makes Uptown Puppies different to other networks with Bulldog puppies Atlanta? We know that not every business puts the health of their pups and parent dogs above their profit. We refuse to work with businesses like that. Our goal at Uptown was to create a network that showcases the most reputable companies with the best Atlanta Bulldog puppies for sale - making it easy for you to find your dream pup. What are puppy mills, exactly? These are horrible places that often place more importance on money than the welfare of their dogs. The result is often sickly puppies who are at high risk of developing serious health conditions as they grow up. Their lack of proper socialization often also results in behavioral issues too. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale Atlanta now? Thanks to the fact that Bulldogs consistently rank as one of the most popular breeds in the US, you shouldn't have any trouble finding Atlanta Bulldogs for sale at Uptown. Start your search now and prepare to be blown away by the sheer wrinkly cuteness of the Bulldogs for sale Atlanta from the recommended businesses on Uptown. What sort of dogs are Bulldogs? Bulldogs were first bred to both drive cattle and take part in a bloody sport known as bull-baiting which is thankfully now banned. These stocky dogs were tough and hard working. Nowadays, a Bulldog is more likely to choose a nap on the couch over physical activity! While they still maintain a streak of bravery, these days an Atlanta Bulldog for sale is better known for their kind natures and loyal hearts. This breed absolutely loves people, and is never happier than when spending plenty of time with their humans. How big do Bulldogs get? Height-wise, a Bulldog Atlanta will be considered a medium sized breed. They mature to stand around inches high at the shoulder. Weight-wise though, they are pretty chunky! These pups can end up weighing up to 50 pounds. Are Bulldogs easy to train? They definitely are!

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Nutritious food for your puppy goes hand in hand with how much you give to the pup. Puppy food quality translates to the inclusion of the recommended nutritional requirements. Like adult German Shepherds, puppies need their food with the right nutritional requirements. Differently, however, puppies need higher nutritional content in their food than adults. Fat and fatty acids — 8. Minerals — The recommended quantities for all 12 mineral requirements. Once you wean your puppy, leaving a bowl of water around is allowed. Feeding your German Shepherd with solid food begins after a transitional weaning period. As such, it is important to revisit a few points on weaning your German Shepherd puppy. Weaning Your German Shepherd Puppy If you wonder how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy, it only means your pup is ready to wean and transition to solid food. You should introduce your German Shepherd puppy to weaning once its tiny teeth appear, around weeks of age. At this age, the mother is more reluctant to feed the pups because their teeth make suckling uncomfortable. Besides, feeding a litter of growing pups can also be energetically draining for the mother. Away from that, however, your puppy needs to start building a strong immune system with proper nourishment. So, at weeks, you can leave around a bowl of a puppy milk replacer so your GSD puppy can start licking and drinking it gradually. They have added proteins, fat, minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and prebiotics to enhance immunity, gut health, and better digestion. When you use puppy milk replacers, go for brands with proven quality and ensure proper handling. Talking to your vet first is always ideal. Once your puppy is eating more of the milk replacer, you can add a bit of canned puppy food to the milk. You should then decrease the milk amount gradually until the puppy can eat the canned food without the milk. That should be about the sixth week. By now, you can begin introducing your puppy gradually to dry kibble by mixing a bit of kibble with moist canned food. Your German Shepherd puppy should be okay eating dry food by the time he is 8 weeks old. This is the age most puppies go to their new homes. Once your puppy is fully weaned, you must adopt a regular weaning schedule to prevent weight issues. Having a planned German Shepherd puppy feeding schedule means we can now talk about how much to feed your puppy. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd Puppy Veterinarians recommend feeding your puppy with quality commercial puppy food. To help you out, good puppy food manufacturers include a feeding guide with details on how much to feed your puppy and how many times daily. From their projected adult weight, a German Shepherd puppy will grow to around 50lblb .So, the amounts on a German Shepherd feeding chart are distributed based on that weight range. You should give the recommended amount for your puppy divided into 4, 3, and 2 portions as your puppy ages. To give you an idea, I picked two of my favorite puppy food brands. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Both brands meet the minimum content recommendation for protein and fat nutrients, which are essential for proper puppy growth. Estimated Adult Weight. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

German Shepherd coat care procedures German Shepherds have a beautiful thick coat, requiring regular and thorough care. In the first place, it involves the correct selection of a full-fledged diet and various hygienic procedures. The owner of such a dog should know exactly what and when to do to ensure that the coat of the pet is properly cared for. Often German Shepherds tolerate water procedures and love to bathe if they were accustomed to it from an early age. Later on, an adult kept in an apartment should be bathed with special products two to four times a year: in autumn, spring and summer. In winter, the coat is sometimes cleaned with snow outside. Water procedures performed in winter can cause the dog to fall ill. If there is an urgent need to bathe the pet during this period, the room allocated for bathing should be well prepared and warmed up. If your dog gets dirty on a walk, wash him under the shower or use a wet towel to wipe his coat. If your pet is clearly attracted to water procedures in summer, you can shower him after walks. When keeping a Shepherd Dog in an apartment, you should wash it during the following periods: after shedding; 7 days before the treatment against parasites ticks, fleas, and others ; before the dog shows. If the pet is kept in an aviary, bathing is performed no more than three times a year. Small puppies should not be bathed several days before vaccination and during the day quarantine after vaccination. The first vaccinations are given quite early, at 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Bathing a puppy at 1 or 2 months is still too early. Try to communicate with the puppy calmly and gently, not frighten him with harsh motions. Allow him to settle in by sniffing and looking around in the bathtub. After that, you can start bathing your German Shepherd puppy. What you need for bathing at home Prepare in advance everything you may need for the procedure: First, provide the bottom of the tub with a non-slip surface — a cloth or rubber mat — to prevent your dog from slipping. Wear clothing suitable for this kind of procedure a waterproof apron. Do not use soap on your Shepherd. Prepare a bathing towel. Remember to take your pet for a proper walk outside before bathing. Otherwise, he will want to go for a walk again afterward and may get dirty or catch a cold. Prepare carefully and anticipate everything beforehand. Make sure the water temperature does not exceed degrees Celsius. Using a special shampoo and sponge, thoroughly soap his entire body, including his paws, belly, and neck. Rinse off the foam with your shower. Repeat if necessary. Wrap your puppy in a towel and get him out of the tub. If the coat is still partially wet, let the puppy shake it off and dry himself by running around the house. If the puppy is not afraid of loud noises, try drying the coat with a hairdryer. After bathing, Shepherd fur dries for about 3 hours. Try to bathe your pet in 10 minutes. Exclude the possibility of draughts in the room to avoid the risk of catching a cold. After washing, walks are allowed only after 3 hours. How to bathe a German Shepherd outdoors In the summer heat, you can bathe your German Shepherd puppy in an open pond every day, starting at the age of 4 months. If you take your pet to a river or lake, pay attention to the state of the body of water and the shore before bathing. Are there any sharp objects, shards of glass, or other trash visible? Such precautions will help avoid unwanted injuries and poisoning of your pet. After examining the area, let your dog off the leash and allow him to get acclimated to his new surroundings. German Shepherds are not timid, but each animal has its own personality traits. Swimming in a body of water is good for strengthening muscles and joints. Start by stepping into the water and calling out to your dog. Due to their high degree of trust in their owner, Shepherds are then eager to follow. Allow him to dry naturally, play and run with him. After sickness, it is better to wait about ten days after the pet has recovered before bathing. If the coat falls out or it is dull and broken, it indicates a disease or lack of vitamins in the animal. German Shepherds are divided into long-haired and short-haired according to the fur coat. Their coats need daily brushing. While brushing, dirt, dust, and dander are removed from the coat and skin. At the same time, skin diseases are effectively prevented, and blood circulation and metabolism in the pet are stimulated. The following tools are necessary for taking care of the coat: A frequent brush for the massage effect for long-haired — with long teeth, for short-haired — with short teeth. Metal comb: used to detangle fleece hair. Scrubbing brush: used during the seasonal shedding of the pet and for detangling the tangles. In brushing, it is necessary to release the brush from the clogged hair and dirt periodically. If your pet is calm, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment. After dry brushing, wet-clean the coat with a special mop, then dry the coat with a dry towel, and do not forget to wipe the eyes and ears with a wet cloth. There are special complex procedures designed to care for the fur and skin of animals, the so-called grooming. Currency Dogger Blog Learn tricks of the grooming trade and how to get the most out of grooming and deshedding your doggo pal. Have you tried getting them into the tub or even keeping them still in the garden with the hose pointed at them or a bucket of water by their side? They will most likely want to run away. Before you try to wrangle them for a bath, read these tips first, or you may end up getting wetter than them! German Shepherds have a double coat - the topcoat and the undercoat. The topcoat protects them from sun exposure, dust and other particles. The undercoat protects them from the harsh, cold weather during winter, and the heat from the summer. Their double coat has natural oils, and bathing too frequently will only strip away these oils. And which may cause their skin to get dry and irritated. Nevertheless, during flea season, you can bathe your German Shepherd more often to control any pests. In addition, if your dog has a bit of a pungent scent during the summer, you can bathe him every 2 months. And if your German Shepherd plays out in the open and gets dirty, you may consider bathing more often. Brushing is another factor that would determine how often you bathe your German Shepherd. Brushing also makes their coat shinier and healthier. Start from the neck working your way towards the tail and use enough water to reach the undercoat. Scrub in circular motions with your finger so that the shampoo reaches the undercoat. You can also do long strokes like a massage that your German Shepherd will surely enjoy. Thoroughly wash off your German Shepherd, and you may want to repeat this step to ensure that all the suds are removed from the undercoat and any crevices. If a residue is left and it dries up, this can cause skin irritation. This is the part where you get wet, as they shake off all the excess water. Rub him with a towel to dry off faster. Brush their coat well to make it shiny. And blow dry in the direction of hair growth, otherwise, blowing back and forth can lead to matting. German shepherds don't really need haircuts but if your dogs coat is getting out of hand then a light trim of their coat could help them in the warmer months. As puppies, they can start bathing as young as three weeks. An organic shampoo, or at the very least, a gentle shampoo will do. Harsher shampoos can strip their natural oils, or make their skin dry. Final Note Diet plays a big role too, in their physical appearance and health. Feeding your German Shepherd the proper foods and keeping them away from harmful ones will prevent them from getting any skin problems. Now you are better equipped to bathe your German Shepherd Treat bathing as a bonding moment between you and your dog, and he will love you for it. The rest of the time, proper grooming can keep them clean and healthy. Shedding For The Season Dogs have two different types of coats. Some have hair that continually grows. Others have fur that sheds. German Shepherd Dogs have a double coat of fur. According to Dog. The top layer also known as the primary layer serves to protect the dog from light injury and add additional insulation from temperature. Throughout the year, some of this fur detaches from the body sheds , in order for new growth to come in. German Shepherd Dogs go through two big shedding cycles every year to adapt to the coming season. You will also notice that there is more fur around the house than normal. The best way to keep up with their shedding is daily brushing with a de-shedding brush or comb. You will want to make sure you are getting both the top layer and undercoat when doing this. Use positive techniques and stay consistent with this daily routine. After some time, this can become a great bonding experience. Global K9 Protection Services , a company that specializes in training Shepherds, recommends not bathing GSDs too often to avoid drying out their skin. Dry skin can lead to itchiness, redness, and hot spots that they can start chewing. If they walk on pavement or gravel often, their nails may get ground down from those surfaces. The goal is to cut the nails down without hitting the nerve in the nail. This can lead to foot and joint issues later on. When clipping their nails, high praise in a calm environment will give you the best results for them to get through it in the most positive way. They need it but do not want you to put anything in there. The best way to do this is to clean the outer ear and use ear drops designed for dogs. As they shake their heads, it will remove the excess ear wax and dirt. Speak to your veterinarian about which product to choose. Some dog treats have plaque removing properties to them. Another way is to brush their teeth around three times a week. Make sure you use toothpaste made for dogs. The toothpaste made for humans can be toxic to dogs. Remember, if it goes in their mouth, they will swallow it. Let them get used to the warm water. The water level should not be more than elbow high for them. Work from their bottom and move forward, saving their head for last. They are very sensitive to having their faces handled. When scrubbing them, use circular motions with your fingers to get through the undercoat. You can also use long strokes in a massage-like way. These two methods can calm them down. Who does not like a massage? Make sure you rinse often and repeatedly to make sure that all of the soap has been cleaned off. Dried residue can create irritation on their skin. Have at least towels ready to dry them off. If you are going to use a hairdryer, do not focus on one spot for too long, to avoid making one spot too hot for them. Use products that are designed specifically for dogs. Avoid products that use artificial chemicals. Products that use natural ingredients and have simple formulas are just as effective. Going With The Pros Using a professional dog groomer has advantages. They have the proper equipment, products, and skills to groom your German Shepherd Dog. Before you go online and choose the first one you see, both PetMD and the AKC have a few recommendations on how to choose the right groomer. Grooming program , that can assure you the groomer is of the highest quality. You will also want to make sure they are caring for your dog well with their kennels and that their staff is trained for any emergencies. Finally, make sure you understand all the costs that come with their services. Your dog may never look forward to it, but when it is time to take a bath, using positive training techniques can be the best approach to make it a choreless event. Make sure you use the proper shampoos and keep up with their grooming requirements. If you do need further advice, see the help of a certified trainer in your area. In such cases, you will have to bathe the dog more frequently than usual, using an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo. They target the effects of different skin conditions and help clear them up so your German Shepherd can be free from symptoms like itching or hotspots and get their shiny coat back. A bath should be a good thing, right? After all, baths keep humans away from dirt and bad odor, so you may think the same logic applies to dogs. However, you should not bathe your German Shepherd more often than necessary. German Shepherds have a double coat with natural oils that keep their skin healthy. This could lead to skin issues such as allergic reactions or dryness. Dogs with thick double coats and heavy shedders like the German Shepherd can be bathed every 3 months. This is because when they shed , the coat naturally removes dead skin cells and harmful bacteria. While bathing your German Shepherd is an essential part of their grooming and care, you should only do it to remove dirt and unpleasant odors. You should only bathe your German Shepherd every two to three months or as necessary. They should be bathed when they have accumulated mud or dirt on their skin or coat or the dog smells unpleasant. Regular bathing is unnecessary if your German Shepherd has a clean, shiny, and healthy coat. There are a few other factors that can affect how often you should bathe your GSD: 1. A monthly bath may be necessary if your GSD is extra active and often gets full of dirt. Some dogs are known for rolling around in fox poop; if this is your dog, then more frequent bathing will be on your list of doggy chores. Others like to jump in muddy puddles whenever they see one on a walk, like Willow, my German Shepherd. She likes to cool off in swampy areas or sludgy puddles, as shown in the photo below. My German Shepherd taking a mud bath! Your German Shepherd Has a Skin Condition You may need to bathe your dog regularly if they have a skin condition that requires treatment with a special shampoo. One antibiotic-controlled study found that bath therapy twice weekly with a chlorhexidine shampoo and spray was as effective as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in treating dog pyoderma. Although these pests are a threat to doggos all year round, they are most active during the warmer months. In such cases, he may need even fewer baths than the recommended once every months. Nonetheless, many enjoy a paddle in a river or shallow lake or other water activities. Willow is not keen on swimming — I think her heavy double coat weighs her down. But she loves being in the river and finds it fun sticking her head in the water to find pebbles. My German Shepherd hunting for river pebbles! Your GSD Has a Skin Allergy German Shepherds with skin allergies typically have issues with their skin barrier epidermis , meaning their skin dries up more easily. Regularly bathing a dog with skin allergies using harsh shampoos can worsen the already compromised layer of skin, further aggravating the allergy. If you do need to keep your German Shepherd clean and spiffy, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Brush your GSD twice or thrice every week. Removing loose fur also takes away old skin oils and prevents dog odor. Do you want to know the grooming tools I swear by? Get your German Shepherd tired. If you use the treatment that you rub between the shoulders, you should wait 48 hours before bathing. For example, you can consult your vet on how often you should bathe your dog. After all, your vet is likely knowledgeable about dog skin types and any skin issues your dog may have. The oatmeal and aloe mixture works well with sensitive skin. Additionally, the shampoo is manufactured in U. German Shepherd puppies should not be bathed with shampoo until they are at least 3 months old. Before then, just use warm water and a cloth or wash rag. At 3 months, you should use a good quality shampoo and conditioner made for dogs and pH balanced to avoid skin irritation. Do German Shepherds Like Baths? Most German Shepherds do not enjoy baths. They find being confined and scrubbed in the bathtub an entirely different experience from splashing around in a river which they enjoy. Some dogs are nervous around water, so reassure your pet, use a calm voice and offer high-quality treats. Long-haired German Shepherds should be bathed 3 or 4 times per year. Their bathing frequency is no different from the short coat variety. Too many baths will remove the natural oils that are present in their coat which can result in their skin becoming dry and inflamed. Final Thoughts How often you should bathe your German Shepherd depends on a few factors. In general, you should bathe your GSD whenever they get dirty or smelly. If you must have a regular bathing routine for your dog and they have healthy skin, you can bathe them once every two to three months. If you doubt how often you should bathe your GSD, ask your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend that you bathe your dog more or less than the recommended once every two to three months. Related Posts You May Like:. Health As a German Shepherd owner, you probably know all of the joys of having one of these amazing dogs. In order to keep your dog happy and healthy, there are some things involved that may not be as fun as playing fetch with Fido. Grooming your German Shepherd could be one of those things depending on how cooperative your GSD is during the process. In this short guide, we will give you advice on how often you should bathe a German Shepherd as well as other grooming tips. Bathing your dog is not like bathing your child. This is the ideal amount of bathing for your dog, but there are other factors that can come into play. Personally, I bathe Allie once every weeks. Of course, if your dog goes outside often and gets really dirty, you may want to bathe him before he can track that dirt all over your home. If your German Shepherd stinks, you definitely want to give your dog a bath. You should brush your German Shepherd a couple of times a week. The difficulty of bathing your German Shepherd will largely depend on whether your dog is cooperative or not. Some dogs may not like baths at first so you will be busy trying to keep them still or trying to keep them from running away from the bath. The good news is that if you are patient and reassuring, your dog will eventually get used to it. I found that getting Allie used to baths as a puppy helped tremendously so now I am not fighting with 70 pounds of Shepherd for every bath. You will want to do the head last. Apply shampoo and begin to lather your GSD all over starting from their neck and working your way down. You can either use your fingers or use a sponge if you want to really rub the shampoo in. I just use my fingers. Once you are finished, dry your dog thoroughly with the towels. Is Dog Teeth Cleaning Necessary? You may have to work with your dog to get them comfortable with getting their teeth cleaned. Make sure you use toothpaste for dogs, not toothpaste for humans. Try putting a tiny amount of toothpaste on each tooth before you start brushing just to relax your dog. Once your dog is relaxed, brush the teeth in a circular motion, making sure you brush near the gum lines. Try and be thorough but be gentle. This is one of the things I wish I did more when Allie was a puppy. Normally, her mouth is wide open, but when the toothbrush comes out her mouth closes up like a clam. Handle any broken or split nails immediately. You will want to use a dog nail clipper not human nail clippers. You can buy special ear wax drops from your vet. Your dog will shake out the remaining liquid by shaking its head. Final Thoughts Keeping your German Shepherd properly groomed goes a long way in keeping your dog healthy. A healthy dog is a happy dog! If you are ever in doubt about grooming your dog, you can seek out professional help. There are many great dog groomers available and your vet can also give you good tips.

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Having a dog helps teach responsibility to children. Caring for the dog will teach children that their pet is dependent on them for food and exercise and love. Dogs require a lot of care; they need to be fed, walked, played with and trained. Children come to understand that dogs have to learn discipline in order to be pleasant around the family and others. Children come to appreciate discipline by observing how important it is in their dog. Having a dog teaches children patience, commitment and selflessness. Caring for a dog takes a great deal of responsibility. Children learn to be less focused on themselves and more patient with others. Responsibility is a key factor in leadership development in children, and one of the best ways of learning responsibility is in the home with the family dog. Being responsible for a dog teaches children valuable life lessons. The lessons that children learn from having a dog are priceless and may just help in being successful in life and in a career. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Between and , the population of the town grew .Current town growth is a result of these such developments, which primarily attract high-income families relocating from Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and New York City Nickname: Diamond Town of the Diamond State Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! Cedar Creek Labradors started breeding in ! Our love for the breed expanded in to be able to share our own personal hunting Labs. We are focused on producing quality AKC Labrador puppies with health, sound structure, looks, temperament and trainability as a priority. We are located in Delaware and own both English and American Labradors. Our goal is to continue improving the Labrador breed within the AKC Standards starting with the improvement our own puppies during each specially paired breeding! We help in matching each potential family with the best suited puppy by suggesting upcoming parents with temperaments and pedigrees to match their individual needs. Please Find us on Facebook! In we added French Bulldogs to our program! Many years with a huge love for the breed I couldn't withhold any longer! Such a great decision as their comical personalities have melted our hearts! Our puppies page contains information on upcoming litters, pictures, availability and placing deposits! Take a look at our Available page to see Dogs, Older puppies or Rescues Currently available along with information on our Boarding rates and Training. We are now working with a finance company if you need help with your payment we can email an application! Visitors are not permitted within all areas and must sanitize upon entering our property. We have to use precautions to keep our young puppies safe. All visitors are by appointment only to allow us family time as well as individualized time with any other visitors. We also must prepare by putting our dogs up in advance. Our dogs and puppies are all on NuVet Plus Vitamins. We highly recommend this product! We can not express enough how important it is to continue the use of this product! After seeing the results of NuVet and NuJoint on our personal dogs we hope to have all puppy buyers continue to use this product and it is required in order to participate in our 26 month puppy guarantee!

This dry food formula is made with DHA for healthy canine brain development, plus calcium and phosphorus for healthy teeth and strong bones in young dogs. No high fructose corn syrup, no artificial flavors, and no added sugar. Report incorrect product info. Ingredients: ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain wheat, soybean meal, meat and bone meal, animal fat source of omega 6 fatty acids [preserved with bha and citric acid ], brewers rice, natural flavor source of chicken flavor , corn gluten meal, salt, monocalcium phosphate, fish oil [source of dha] preserved with mixed tocopherols , brewers dried yeast, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, choline chloride, dl-methionine, dried peas, zinc sulfate, l-tryptophan, vitamin e supplement, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 2, dried carrots, copper sulfate, red 40, niacin supplement, sodium selenite, potassium iodide, d-calcium pantothenate, vitamin a supplement, riboflavin supplement vitamin b2 , vitamin b12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin b1 , vitamin d3 supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin b6 , folic acid. Shipping details Estimated ship dimensions: .This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup. See the return policy for complete information. Q: At what age should a 5 month old dog start eating pedigree small dog food? After that they go on adult food. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all love our pets and we generally turn to the big named brands to ensure we get the right pet foods. However, it really is no secret that Pedigree has been one of the most popular brands on the market for decades. When the brand got its first big recognition, their marketing efforts were geared toward breeders and show dogs. However, over the years, the brand has shifted its marketing focus to more closely on shelter dogs, subsequently ending their partnership with the esteemed dog show. This article will take a deeper look into what this commercial dog food is actually made of and explore what customers really think of one of the most well-known dog food brands out there today. Our Rating After comparing multiple sites along with customer reviews of Pedigree Dog Food ingredients and satisfaction, Pedigree receives 3 out of 5 stars. If you want to see our top-rated dog food read the guide here. Reviews The Pedigree Dog Food reviews were quite shocking given the fact that the brand has been a household name for quite a while. There was obviously a need to determine the answer to the question is Pedigree a good dog food because there have been studies and analyses completed regarding the ingredients found in the well-known dog food. Unfortunately, while reviews from chewy. Pros Dogs Prefer Most of the comments regarding the canned food on chewy. Customers stated that while they have tried other brands, they have found that their dogs specifically choose Pedigree more frequently. There is also no denying that Pedigree dog food contains a source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as d-calcium pantothenate, monocalcium phosphate , potassium iodide, potassium chloride, and folic acid. Price Customers reported enjoying the price point of Pedigree because it was affordable with an ingredient list they could agree with respectfully. While corn is inexpensive and used mostly as a filler, dogs have a hard time digesting it. It has also been proven that corn is known to cause many allergies and skin issues for dogs; therefore, it is hard to understand why corn would be the number one listed ingredient in this dog food. Among the top ingredients listed were corn gluten meal, soybean meal, and ground whole wheat. With that much grain in one recipe, dogs are bound to produce much more gas and waste than ever necessary. Colors and Dyes According to Dog Food Insider, a breakdown of the ingredients list for a complete Pedigree Dog Food review showed that artificial colors and dyes were used frequently in all of their recipes. The customers even stated that their dogs refused to eat Pedigree Dog Food after just one taste. These were among the most common complaints found on the purchase sites. Watch this video from a veterinary surgeon for more pros and cons: Product Line.

A Bernedoodle also sometimes referred to as a Bernadoodle is a combination of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a toy, mini, or standard Poodle. Bernedoodles are known to be a friendly, happy go lucky, and mellow breed. Due to the Poodles sensitive nature and Bernese stubbornness, they will need firm yet gentle trainer. Bernedoodles are smart and eager to please. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Bernedoodle puppy home. Just remember that patience and consistency will be key! Bernedoodles are intelligent and will require mental stimulation and regular exercise to keep them happy and prevent them from becoming bored or obese. Due to the fact that they have a low to medium energy level, they typically do not require endless amounts of exercise. They are happy playing, romping, going for walks, and can even make a great jogging partner. Some Bernedoodles also like to swim! It is important to remember that not all Bernedoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! This breed is often referred to as easy-going though they can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training , playful, and loyal. They are very social and do best if they are not left alone for extended periods of time. The life expectancy of an Bernedoodle is between years. This seems like quite a large range right? Remember that in general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Since they were bred to be a working breed they can also be somewhat stubborn. Poodles on the other hand are non-shedding and typically have a longer lifespan. They are an extremely smart breed that is eager to please and often very easy to train. Did you know that Poodles were originally used as hunting dogs? The combination of these two breeds creates a smart, mellow dog that has a longer lifespan and is typically very low to non-shedding! There are several different generations of Bernedoodles. Most reputable Bernedoodle breeders will only cross a standard or moyen Poodle with a Bernese. Crossing a toy or mini Poodle with a Bernese often results in Bernedoodle puppies with short legs and a longer body like a Corgi. Most F1 Bernedoodles will be low shedding while others may shed moderately or not at all. F1b Bernedoodles tend to be a great choice for those with allergies because they have a higher percentage of Poodle. Most tend to shed very little or not at all. Yes and no. F2 Bernedoodle coats can be unpredictable due to the Bernese being IC improper coat affected. This means that they can produce puppies that do not shed at all, but they can also produce puppies that will be low or high shedders. Some F2 Bernedoodles will be furnished have doodle coats while others will be unfurnished no facial beard or doodle coat. Their percentages can be a mixture leaning towards either parent breed. When reputable breeders carefully plan and study their lines, multigens tend to be the most predictable generation when it comes to temperament, coat type, shedding factor, etc. Our multigen Bernedoodles typically are very low to non-shedding. However, sometimes we will intentionally pair two dogs together in order to create a litter that has some unfurnished coats. At Doodles of Oz we currently breed all 4 different coat types. An unfurnished Bernedoodle will have a straight, Bernese-like coat rather than a doodle coat. This means that they are more prone to shedding and are not normally recommended for those who suffer from allergies. Many unfurnished Bernedoodles do not shed as much as a full Bernese though! If you love the Bernese Mountain Dog but are looking for a similar dog that is expected to shed less and live longer or maybe even one that is smaller in size , then this may be the one for you! Bernedoodles are currently the only mix that we have with some unfurnished coats. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bernedoodle Overview The Bernedoodle is a companion dog, through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits, and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. That said, fans of Bernedoodles adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They also tend to be more hypoallergenic, which is a blessing for allergy sufferers. In addition to their personalities, Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight and come in a variety of colors. They come in three sizes; tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk. Bernedoodle Highlights Gentle and loving: Bernedoodles are known for their gentle and loving personalities. They are good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable: Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to perform more complex tasks. Hypoallergenic: Bernedoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to shed and cause allergies in people. Active but adaptable: Bernedoodles are active dogs that need a moderate amount of exercise. However, they are also adaptable and can do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Loyal and devoted: Bernedoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and love to cuddle. If you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle may be the right breed for you. Here are some additional details about the Bernedoodle breed: Size: Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 90 pounds. Lifespan: Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Coat: Bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat that can be either single- or double-coated. Colors: Bernedoodles can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. Bernedoodles are a relatively new breed, so there is still some debate about their exact origins. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the early s. The goal was to create a dog that was hypoallergenic and had the best qualities of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Bernedoodles are becoming increasingly popular dogs. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They are also a good choice for people with allergies. If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Bernedoodle History The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. While this is considered a designer breed, they do appear in shelters, and rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs will sometimes work with mixes of those breeds. There is no reason that you have to rely on a breeder for a Bernedoodle, and you should always adopt before shopping. Bernedoodle Size There are three sizes of Bernedoodle: tiny, miniature, and standard. These result from the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard size. The Tiny Bernedoodle stands at 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs about 10 to 24 pounds. The Miniature Bernedoodle stands at 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 pounds. The Standard Bernedoodle stands at 23 to 29 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. Bernedoodle Personality Bernedoodles seem to get many of the best personality traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. Exactly which traits they inherit from their parents can differ a bit, though, and individual personalities of dogs within the breed vary. Bernedoodles tend to be highly intelligent, hardworking when necessary, loyal, and just a bit goofy. They are good with children and other dogs, provided they have been well socialized. Once they begin training, their intelligence helps them pick up commands more easily than other dogs. Bernedoodles can have high energy levels and crave attention and at least moderate exercise. They do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles do better with apartment and city life than Standard Bernedoodles. Generally, they want nothing more than to be with their humans and are just as ready to go outside and play with them as they are to join them on the couch for cuddles. Bernedoodle Health Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, including: Hip dysplasia : This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia : This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. Hereditary cataracts : These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Demodex mange : This is a skin condition caused by mites. Inflammatory bowel disease IBD : This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Hypothyroidism : This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is important to take your Bernedoodle to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these health problems so that you can seek treatment promptly if necessary. Here are some tips for keeping your Bernedoodle healthy: Feed them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. Keep them at a healthy weight. Brush their teeth regularly. Take them to the vet for regular checkups. By following these tips, you can help your Bernedoodle live a long and healthy life. Bernedoodle Care Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. They love being around their humans, so the less time they spend alone, the better. Like Poodles, Bernedoodles are quite intelligent, which means they can learn bad habits just as easily as good ones. It is important to keep up with training. Early socialization and exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea and will help keep them well-behaved when meeting new people or pets. Bernedoodle Feeding The appropriate amount to feed a Bernedoodle depends on their size, age, and activity level, which means it is highly individualized. You should ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that suit your particular dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well. The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Bernedoodle Children And Other Pets Bernedoodles are excellent for families with children, though it is always important to make sure children are instructed on how to properly treat animals, especially with Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles that may be injured more easily. This breed is affectionate and loves to play, and they absolutely adore spending time with their families. Bernedoodles usually do well with other dogs, but it is important to begin socialization at an early age and keep up with it to make sure they are comfortable around new animals. Bernedoodle Rescue Groups Please search your local area for Bernedoodle up for adoption. Bernedoodle Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues More Info For You. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful? What is a Bernedoodle? They can also go by the name Bernese Mountain Poo. Like we mentioned above, Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels are often credited with having created this unique Doodle mix in .What Size Is A Bernedoodle? Dennis the Bernedoodle Photo: dennis. The size of the Bernedoodle will depend on whether a Bernese Mountain Dog is bred with a standard, miniature or toy Poodle. Standard Bernedoodles will range from 23 to 29 inches tall and 70 to 90 pounds in weight, miniature Bernedoodles can vary from 18 to 22 inches tall and 25 to 49 pounds in weight, and toy Bernedoodles can be 12 to 17 inches tall and 10 to 24 pounds in weight. We asked Dennis dennis. Dennis is what you would consider a standard Bernedoodle, although he is definitely on the lower end of the scale in terms of size and weight. He will mature at approximately 55lbs and will be about inches in height at the shoulder. Chewy is an even bigger example of a Bernedoodle given his parents were a large standard Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. It depends; Bernedoodles, like other doodles, can be mini, medium, or standard. It also depends on their parents. Chewy is from a large standard poodle and Bernese mountain dog. It depends on the Bernedoodle type! Bernedoodles come in three sizes — tiny, miniature and standard. So, they can range anywhere from 10lbs to 90lbs! Having said, we can look at some of the possible coat colors of Bernedoodles, which can range from black and white, grey and white, brown and white and white. They can also have a tricolor coat. Bernedoodles will usually have brown eyes, triangular-shaped ears and a black nose. Eevee eeveethebernedoodle gave us an insight into Bernedoodle appearance. Eevee is a big teddy bear! She used to be pretty fluffy and her coat was mostly wavy but when she lost her baby coat it changed to more curly hair! But some Bernedoodles will end up more curly than others and some will have a more wavy coat! Eevee kept her colouring with time but I would say that her brown definitely faded a little bit with her coat changing! So again some Bernedoodles will keep their marking while growing up as some other might fade a little! Kenzie kenziedood gave us a further insight into Bernedoodle appearance. Bernedoodles are beautiful, striking dogs, and they can really vary in their coloring as well as their coat. They will often have Bernese coloring, black, brown and white- but this can present differently in different pups even from the same litter. You can also switch up their appearance depending on how you get them groomed. Bernedoodles can make loyal dogs that become very attached to their pet parents, proving to be an excellent potential candidate for a family pet. Temperament has a large genetic component. A dog of any breed is only going to be as sound as the parents. Bernese, in particular, come in both those flavors so it is important to know the breeder is breeding the best dogs possible. Chewy is an example of a Bernedoodle who is pretty chill. However, we have seen Bernedoodles that are not mellow at all. Chewy was very mellow and calm when he was a little puppy; he started to be a little more energetic in the last month. This is quite command for Bernedoodles, as they often have the stubbornness characteristic from their Berner parent. Bernedoodles are excitable, happy and driven, but are overall very lazy. They are active, however, they are the first to lay down after being in a sit, or crash after a quick walk or hike. Bernedoodles have extremely entertaining personalities and will never fail to make you laugh! We spoke to a dog separation anxiety expert to learn more about this condition. You can read our in-depth chat about the issue here. Separation anxiety usually occurs when a dog is left at home alone. However, some dogs can display signs of separation anxiety as soon as you put on your shoes or show some tell-tell signs that your departure is imminent. The symptoms include incessant barking, howling or whining, destructive chewing or digging, relentless pacing or in some extreme cases defecting or urinating inside the home. Bernedoodles, just like any other type of dog, can suffer with separation anxiety. Jamie, who is the mom of Dennis dennis. Separation anxiety also has a strong genetic component as well as a husbandry component. Sound tempered parents that are not anxious should not produce anxious puppies. That said under the right circumstances a great dog can learn to be anxious based on experiences. He is happy to sleep in his crate, or work on a Kong filled with frozen yogourt while we are away for a few hours. Although he gets super excited when we come back, we know that it is not good to get that much excitement. You may prefer to hire the services of a dog trainer to help guide you socialize your Bernedoodle dog. We put the question of whether Bernedoodles are a good choice for family pets to two of our Bernedoodle owners. Based on her experience with Dennis dennis. Overall, they are spectacular family dogs, and are usually very easy-going and patient with children. Dennis loves to play with our young nieces and nephew. They love to be close to you and are very loyal. They are even-tempered and not aggressive. Jessica highlighted some traits that would make Bernedoodles a candidate for a family pet. I think a family with kids would be amazing for Bernedoodles because they are loving and super cuddle dogs and energetics. Julianne did have a word of caution of families with Bernedoodles. From what I have seen, yes. It is all about the socialization and being properly introduced to kids of different ages. Are Bernedoodles Smart? Bernedoodles tend to be pretty smart dogs. Some Bernedoodles can display a stubborn streak, which is why consistent training is required from a young age. Are Bernedoodle Easy To Train? Bernedoodle training can be quite smooth provided you start at a young age and show patience. Kenzie kenziedood has been quick to learn new commands and tricks. Bernedoodles are very smart and can quickly pick up on new tricks as well as remember their previous training. They are very food motivated so that makes positive reinforcement training really effective. The key to training Chewy was finding out how to motivate this particular Bernedoodle. Chewy, for example, is not food motivated, so we need to use some toy, ball, play to reward him while training. They are very smart. They are very motivated dogs. If there is anything that is difficult about training a Bernedoodle, it would be their stubbornness and their intelligence. They know what they can and cannot get away with and will therefore test your limits. They learn and pick up things very quickly and their curiosity is an asset in training. Kenzie kenziedood gets around three walks a day. Bernedoodles love long walks and have quick bursts of energy- but also value a good long nap. Like any dog, they appreciate exercise and it helps them behave better throughout the day. We give our dog about 3 walks a day, as well as fetch and training sessions which exercise her mind throughout the day. Chewy is satisfied with a minute walk and lots of playtime. Their exercise [requirements] depends, a 30min walk and some playtime in the park gets Chewy tired for the day, but he gets a little excited again in the evening. I think the more you exercise your dog, the best, no matter what type of dog. They have a moderate activity level, so they love to play and run around but also snuggle right next to you on the couch. They are playful, intelligent and goofy — my favorite trait! Julianne underlined the importance of mental stimulation — too. Bernedoodles love to play and run, which can burn off lots of energy. I feel as though they are one of the breeds that can get away with mental stimulation in the house rather than long walks. However, they are known to tire out quickly. I would say an accumulation of an hour walk a day is sufficient, coupled with some training and brain games. With the right socialization and training, most dogs can be social with other canines. I think this really depends on the personality of your dog and the way you raise them. She wants to be friend with all of them! Bernedoodles are generally friendly and also really chill so I would say they do get along with other dogs as long as you get them use to them young and introduce good manners around other dogs! Are Bernedoodles Good With Cats? We have a cat at home and Saban absolutely adores her! He is also so good with other dogs out in public, he rarely barks at them. He just wants to play more than anything! Chewy is not good with cats. He likes to chase them and want to play like they are a toy. Again, this is Chewy. We have seen Bernedoodles that sleep with other cats and are super chill. Chewy is still a puppy and acts like a puppy. We hope he will be fine with cats in the future. Julianne reckons Bernedoodles will do well with cats with appropriate socialization. They are extremely curious and as long as they are introduced properly to the cat, they are very friendly. Are Bernedoodles Barkers? Having said that, this trait could develop with age. If you do have a Bernedoodle that barks a lot, you may want to contact a dog behaviorist if this is an issue for you. Chewy has never barked. However, he is only 8 months old. We had heard stories of dogs that started to bark when they got older. Some dogs that are not well socialized tend to be more vocal. Overall, I find that very few things entice them to bark. Do Bernedoodles Like To Cuddle? Most Bernedoodles are affectionate in that they want to be close to you and be around you. Are Bernedoodles Clingy? Bernedoodles tend to want to be near their owners and know where they are. Bernedoodles run warm so I think that sitting near their owners is enough for them. They tend to follow you from room to room to see what you are up to. Bernedoodles LOVE being around their humans — they hate being forced to spend time alone and feel like they are true members of your family. They require lots of attention and affection from their human family, so this is definitely something you should keep in mind when determining if a Bernedoodle is right for you! Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic? Bernedoodles, and Doodles in general, are much loved for their hypoallergenic qualities. However, the AKC do put forward a number of breeds that are more hypoallergenic than other types of dogs. The Poodle is one of the breeds on their dog list. Doodles of various mixes are allergy friendly and most people with allergies will not react to them. However, it is all on an individual basis as to how each individual react to with an individual dog. Do Bernedoodles Shed? However, you should keep in mind that the Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that does shed. So Bernedoodles can barely shed, shed a little or shed moderately depending on the genes that they inherit from each parent. Kenzie kenziedood offered some advice for pet lovers looking for a low-shedding Bernedoodle. It will depend on their coat, but probably not much if at all. Do Bernedoodles Need Regular Grooming? Bernedoodles will need a trim every few months to keep their curly hair in check. Eevee has only had two full grooms so far. The groomers recommended us to wait until she lost her baby coat until a full groom! We took her for a face and paw trim when she was 6 months but we now try to trim her face and paws ourself when her hair gets too long I would definitely recommend to get your puppy use to scissors and brush really young. At 9 months we took her for her first full groom! I would say that Bernedoodles need a full groom every season depends on how short you want their coat and how often you keep up with home brushing and trimming. Chewy gets a combination of grooming at home, while some of the trickier bits are carried out by a professional. We bring Chewy to the groom to get a little trim on his private parts, paws, nails. We do the rest at home. We always trim around his eyes so we can see them. Julianne suggests grooming every six weeks is essential with this breed. Along with that, they must be brushed with a slicker brush and metal toothed comb, every single day. Neglecting to brush them daily or every other day, will result in serious damage to their coat. Mats form quickly, even if their fur is not naturally curly. Due to their generally thick coats, mats can take over very easily. It is important to keep this in mind before purchasing a Bernedoodle, as it is an extreme amount of maintenance just to keep them comfortable. Mats can tug at the skin and cause sores and irritation if not dealt with. This is why doodles are often shaved. Do Bernedoodle Need Haircuts? So the longer the cutter, but short hair Bernedoodles are really cute too. It depends on the coat and the time you have to take care of it since they have more hair than fur. Some people like their doodles coats longer and some prefer them shorter. The sweet spot for me and many other owners I know, is 1. Their coats grow quickly and can be too much for them, depending on the climate they live in and the time of the year. In order to keep your Bernedoodle from getting tangled and mats, it is important to brush them at least 3x a week, if not more. I tend to brush my Bernedoodle every day — he loves it! This will also keep haircuts at a minimum, which is important if you want your Bernedoodle to have long, flowy hair, otherwise it is more likely that he will need to be shaved. While some mixed breeds can have less health issues, they can still be prone to some problems. I recommend you really do your research before getting a Bernedoodle to make sure the breeder have all their health certificates for hip issues because Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles are big dogs and can often have hip and back issue growing up. Casey has taken some preventative steps by giving Saban some supplements. We were cautious with the health problems of both the Bernese and the poodle, so we do give him a joint supplement to be proactive. He just got neutered this past week and came through it like a trooper. Are Bernedoodles Fussy Eaters? It all depends on the individual dog. Alternatively, if you prefer feeding your Bernedoodle dry food such as kibble, you can still find some great options here. Other pet parents may prefer to check out the leading options in the raw dog food market. Dennis dennis. Fussy eating is a created behavior. This applies to ALL breeds. Bernese are known for their unstoppable appetite and many, many Bernese are quite overweight. Their doodles can inherit this appetite. But they also have a Poodle component and they are well known to self regulate and become disinterested in food once their BMI gets too high, so it can go either way. However they are worth it! Our is from Crockett Doodles. Through my research, I found a few reasons why Bernedoodles are expensive. Number 1 being the demand, of course. With a greater demand, breeders can continue to increase their prices. The other important thing to consider is how the litters are conceived. Many people ask, how is that even possible? Many breeders use artificial insemination, which is done at a veterinary clinic and is a procedure that needs to be paid for, unlike natural mating. To ensure the safety of parents, artificial insemination is often the only option to produce the smaller sized Bernedoodles that are in high demand. On top of that, some breeders do extensive health testing for the parents in their programs, to give owners a health guarantee for their puppies. Are Bernedoodles Expensive? These can range from pet food, pet insurance, grooming, trips to the vet and much more. Vicky offered the following advice based upon her experience with Eevee eeveethebernedoodle. Our Bernedoodle was our first dog to me and my boyfriend! We were both raised with dogs in our family so we are use to having dogs around Eevee is so sweet and really chill! If you raise you dog well and train them good Bernedoodles can be great first time dog owner! Eevee love to cuddle! Usually pet parents are more than forthcoming with information about their dogs. Here are some Bernedoodle accounts to check out on Instagram. What Is the History of the Bernedoodle? First created by breeder Sherry Rupke in , the bernedoodle hails from Canada and traces its genetics back to a mix of the Bernese mountain dog and the standard poodle. The resulting mix of these two intelligent, loyal, and loving breeds led to an affectionate pup with the gentle nature of the Bernese mountain dog and the intelligent, loyal attitude of the standard poodle. Most bernedoodles exhibit an even split of genetics between their parents and appear with Bernese mountain dog markings and the short, curly fur of the standard poodle. However, because this is not a purebred dog it is a crossbreed, also sometimes called a hybrid dog , there is no breed standard. So the exact characteristics of your bernedoodle will vary based on their parents and the specifications the breeder is selecting for. There are three sizes of bernedoodle around today — tiny, miniature, and standard — though the standard remains the most commonly seen. Bernedoodles with the tri-color pattern of Bernese mountain dogs are the most popular, and this breed is loved for its gentle nature, loving attitude, and energetic friendliness. They make a perfect choice for a family dog or for first-time dog owners that want a playful dog without extreme exercise and high-maintenance care needs. What Do Bernedoodles Look Like? This dog ranges in size from small to slightly larger than a medium-sized dog, and they have friendly faces complete with floppy ears. The coat of the bernedoodle will either be very curly and short or a bit longer and straighter depending on whether the Bernese mountain dog or standard poodle is more dominant in their genetics. Bernedoodles come in many different colors, including black, white, rust or red, blue, tan, sable, and silver, and they will be available in patterns such as tri-color, piebald, or merle. What Size Is a Bernedoodle? The bernedoodle comes in a few different sizes — tiny sometimes called toy , miniature, and standard. Tiny bernedoodles will stand between 10 and 17 inches and weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, while miniatures will stand between 18 and 22 inches tall and weigh between 25 and 49 pounds. The standard-sized bernedoodle will stand between 23 and 29 inches tall and weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. The standard size of this pup is generally the most popular, but the tiny and miniature versions are also fairly sought after for their cute teddy bear-like appearance. Typically, the coloration of the coat will appear much like the Bernese mountain dog, while the coat is short and curly or wavy, thanks to their poodle genetics. Bernedoodles are affectionate, loyal, and playful and are often thought of as the perfect family pet. They get along well with children and other animals, and their energetic nature makes them a great companion for playing in the park or going on a long walk outdoors. This dog is easily trained, friendly, and eager to please despite a streak of stubbornness. They love spending time with their family members learning new tricks. Bernedoodles learn fast thanks to their higher-than-average intelligence, and they enjoy giving affection as much as receiving it. Are Bernedoodles Affectionate? Bernedoodles are known for being a highly affectionate breed, and they love to receive attention as much as they love to give it. This dog makes strong bonds with their family and will enjoy spending as much time with you as possible simply cuddling, playing, or taking walks. Are Bernedoodles Good With Kids? Bernedoodles have a gentle nature and are typically good with kids. They love to play with children and show affection, though they might play rough with very young children. Overall, if your dog has training and your children know how to properly interact with dogs, this pup will easily blend into a family with children. This means that they are likely to get along with other animals easily and will make friends with both dogs and cats that they meet. However, the temperament of your dog can vary based on their personality, so always be cautious when introducing a new animal to your bernedoodle and monitor their first interactions closely. Are Bernedoodles Aggressive? Bernedoodles are not known for being aggressive or for having a high prey drive. This means that they are unlikely to attack or develop aggressive behavioral traits. However, they need a lot of socializing and time spent with their family to prevent anxiety or boredom from becoming destructive behaviors. Do Bernedoodles Bark a Lot? Bernedoodles are generally quiet, moderate barkers and will only bark loudly when they need to. Your dog might get excited and bark quite a bit, or they may see something suspicious around your property and alert you to it. Are Bernedoodles Intelligent? Bernedoodles are a fairly intelligent breed, mostly thanks to their poodle parentage. They learn commands and new tricks easily and are very sensitive to the needs of their owners. This high intelligence also means that your bernedoodle will need lots of physical and mental stimulation to prevent them from getting bored or engaging in destructive behaviors. Are Bernedoodles Easy to Train? Bernedoodles can be easy to train thanks to their high intelligence and their eagerness to please their owners, but they also have a strong streak of stubbornness thanks to their Bernese mountain dog lineage. Proper training and socialization should be started in puppyhood to help them grow out of their puppy rebelliousness and set the stage for easier training as they mature. Are Bernedoodles Energetic? Bernedoodles often have a lot of energy, and this dog will need a moderate level of exercise to stay happy. Bernedoodles are very playful and will want to spend lots of time with their families outdoors, playing, walking, or running around with their toys. Two long walks daily and time spent playing with their toys is a good amount of exercise for this pup and will use up their high energy levels. Are Bernedoodles Good Apartment Dogs? A miniature or tiny-sized bernedoodle might be a better choice for an apartment dog as long as they get lots of time outside to play and enough space to move around in while inside your apartment. Are Bernedoodles Good Watchdogs? The bernedoodle is very loyal and protective of its owners, and they make good watchdogs as a result. This dog is unlikely to bark unless they see something suspicious, which can be helpful if you are looking for a good watchdog, and their larger size might scare away potential intruders. Plus, this dog is typically intelligent and alert, both good traits for a watchdog. Are Bernedoodles Good Service Dogs? Due to their eager-to-please nature, high intelligence, and loving attitude, the bernedoodle does make for a good service dog. The standard size of this breed can be trained as a guide dog or mobility assistance dog, and all sizes of bernedoodle can help out as medical alert or psychiatric service dogs. Bernedoodles love learning new things and quickly pick up even complex commands, making them a good choice for a service dog or therapy dog. How to Care for a Bernedoodle Bernedoodles are energetic dogs that need to spend lots of time with their family, as they crave affection and can become anxious when left alone for too long. This companion dog should never spend more than 8 hours home alone, and they should have lots of toys to play with to keep them mentally stimulated when you are not around. You will need to give your bernedoodle at least two long walks per day and some playtime out in the yard with their toys. Make sure to train your bernedoodle to prevent any stubbornness or behavioral issues from occurring, and take the time to socialize your dog from puppyhood so that they get along with children or other animals. Your bernedoodle will need to be brushed a few times a week, especially if their coat is very curly, and will need regular grooming to ensure their hair stays out of their eyes. Additionally, your bernedoodle will need a diet of high-quality wet or dry food split into two or three meals a day and lots of love from its family to stay healthy and happy. Do You Need to Groom a Bernedoodle? You will need to groom your bernedoodle through regular brushings, especially if they have very curly fur that is prone to becoming tangled. Brush your dog several times a week and take them to a groomer several times a year every three to four months is recommended for a full bath, help with deshedding, and to trim up any fur that may be making them uncomfortable or getting in their eyes. Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles can shed, but depending on whether the poodle or Bernese mountain dog trait is the strongest, they might not shed a lot. Bernedoodles with straighter, longer fur will require less brushing, but they are also more prone to shedding fur throughout the day. What Should a Bernedoodle Eat? Your bernedoodle should be eating a diet consisting of high-quality dry or wet dog food that is supplemented occasionally with healthy treats. How much you feed your bernedoodle each day depends on how large your dog is and whether or not they are a puppy or fully grown. Daily food amounts can range from 1 to 7 cups, split into two or three meals. Consult with a veterinarian if you need advice or feeding recommendations for your bernedoodle. While the bernedoodle is a generally healthy breed, there are a few health issues that they may be predisposed to, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and heart diseases, allergies, skin issues like hot spots , and Von Willebrand disease. Taking good care of your dog and ensuring you go to regular vet visits will help to counteract any health issues or catch health problems before they become too serious. How Long Do Bernedoodles Live? The bernedoodle breed is known to live between 12 and 18 years; the smaller sizes of this dog generally have longer lifespans than the standard size, as is the case with most larger dogs. Are Bernedoodles Expensive? This price has such a large range due to the many factors that go into bernedoodle breeding, such as size, appearance, and desirable traits. The best way to find a reputable breeder to purchase from is to perform an internet search or to ask families and friends in the areas that you live in. Make sure when researching bernedoodle breeders that you pick one with proper licenses and certifications, and that the living conditions of the breeding dogs and their puppies are humane. Do your best to avoid puppy mills or irresponsible breeding practices, and keep in mind that if the price for a puppy seems too good to be true, it probably is. Can You Adopt a Bernedoodle? You may be able to adopt a bernedoodle from a local shelter or a national rescue organization, but this is not the most common way to add a bernedoodle to your family. Because this pup is typically purchased from breeders, they are unlikely to end up in a shelter for adoption. However, it does happen occasionally, so if you really want to rescue a bernedoodle, keep checking local and national organizations to see if one becomes available. Are Bernedoodles Purebred? Bernedoodles are not purebred dogs, as they are a mixed breed created from the Bernese mountain dog and the standard poodle. Can You Show Bernedoodles? Bernedoodles are not purebred dogs and are not recognized by the American Kennel Club , making them ineligible to be shown through AKC events or shows. However, this pup may be recognized by other local and national crossbreed dog kennel clubs and eligible to participate in shows through these organizations. Perform an internet search if you want to find a mixed breed kennel club or a bernedoodle organization to show your dog in. Bernedoodles are a fairly easy dog to care for. Bernedoodles are also affectionate, smart, and easy to train, making them a good choice for first-time dog owners looking for a loving and playful companion. Is a Bernedoodle the Right Dog for Me? Deciding whether or not the bernedoodle is the right dog for you can be overwhelming. Use our bullet points below to review factors about this dog and make your decision more easily. The bernedoodle is the right dog for you if: You want a friendly family dog that loves being a companion to you and your family wherever you go. You want a dog that is easily trained and intelligent enough to learn more complex commands, even service dog commands with the right training. You need a dog that will easily get along with children or other pets that you may have living in your home. After reviewing all of these points, you should know whether the bernedoodle is the best breed to add to your family. Carefully read our dog breed guide as you decide whether or not to adopt one of these fun-loving, playful, and gentle pups, and make sure to give all of your love and care to any dog you adopt, as this will ensure you both live together happily for as long as possible. Bernedoodle Temperament Conceived in the early s, the Bernedoodle is one of the youngest doodle dog breeds out there. Also known as a Bernepoo, Bernesedoodle, Bernesepoo, and Bernese mountain poo, these super easygoing dogs were bred to be calm and even-tempered. While Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are wonderful family pets, their high-energy temperament can make them a handful for more laid-back households. Enter the Bernedoodle, with the placid, loyal nature of its Bernese mountain dog mother and the intellect and low-shedding coat of its poodle father. Click the link to see all of the beautiful Bernedoodle puppies for sale we have ready to adopt today! Bernedoodle Dog Breed Overview Bernedoodles are loyal, smart and utterly adorable. Everything from their size, hypoallergenic potential, color, weight and demeanor can vary, but they always retain some characteristics from each parent. For example, a dog might inherit the curious, energetic nature from the poodle or be more stubborn and calm like the Bernedoodle parent. Smart, goofy and dedicated are just a few words that Bernedoodle owners regularly use to describe their beloved pets. Bernedoodle Designer Breed History Unlike many dogs on the designer breed registry, Bernedoodles have a well-known history. Originally developed by Bernedoodle breeder Sherry Rupke at SwissRidge Kennels, the first litter of two was born in .In addition to poodles and Bernese mountain parent dogs of various sizes, Rupke has added the Australian Labradoodle to her lines, resulting in the Australian Bernedoodle. These dogs have more consistent litters and tend to be somewhat hypoallergenic, even with straight or wavy coats. Where a dog like a golden retriever is bred to have a trusting, friendly temperament, Bernese dogs are reserved and suspicious of new people, making them slightly better guard dogs. Due to their history as herders and cart pullers, they might have a tendency to herd family members or other pets. Because of their intelligence, they require lots of stimulation and prefer to be with people rather than spending long periods of time alone. As working dogs, they were primarily duck hunters. They tend to favor one person and are very loyal and defensive of their owners. Poodles are one of the most popular choices for crossing purebred dogs because of their low- to no-shedding coat, which is more manageable than traditional dog fur. However, many pet owners prefer that their dog is less trusting and disinclined to approach unfamiliar people. Bernedoodles get very attached to their pet parents and require lots of attention and stimulation. A trip to the shops or an appointment should be fine, but no more than a few hours at a time or the dog may get anxious and fearful. Separation anxiety can result in unwanted behaviors such as accidents, barking, chewing and hyperactivity. Of course, this devotion is what makes them such wonderful companions for dog lovers. Second-generation F2 and multigenerational Bernedoodles might be smaller when a larger percentage of poodle is added into the mix. They usually measure between 12 and 17 inches and weigh between 10 and 24 pounds. Standard Bernedoodle Standard Bernedoodles take longer to mature than mini Bernedoodles and tiny Bernedoodles, which take 12 months each. On average, standard Bernedoodles weigh approximately 70 to 90 pounds. Appearance The Bernedoodle is a beautiful dog with a luscious coat and a teddy bear-like aesthetic. It has some adorable quirks when it comes to appearance. For instance, a Bernedoodle puppy often has a pink nose that turns black once the dog is fully matured. Straight Coat vs Wavy Coat vs Curly Coat In addition to different sizes of Bernedoodles, there are also different coat types: straight, wavy and curly. The latter is the most popular for many people, whether they have a family with mild allergies or simply want to minimize the amount of fur that makes its way onto their furniture. Doodles with curly fur shed less than their wavy or straight counterparts, but they have more stringent grooming needs. Straight coats are the easiest to manage grooming-wise but tend to shed more than wavy or curly coats. Because of their relatively normal shedding, this type of doodle is the least common. Wavy-coated Bernedoodles fall somewhere in the middle. Colors Bernedoodles coats can display in any combination of black, brown and white. All black is common, as is black and white or black and brown. In recent years, an even rarer gem has materialized: the merle Bernedoodle. These dogs have marbled grey coats with white and sometimes brown too. The Bernedoodle Breed and Family Life Bernedoodles are particularly well-suited to family life, even for first-time dog owners. They love being near people and are gentle and caring when it comes to small kids, but they also adore running around the backyard with older children and adults. Because they bond so closely with their loved ones, they make excellent companions and protectors. Training Your Bernadoodle Young Bernadoodles tend to inherit the stubbornness characteristic of both their poodle and Bernese mountain dog parents. Provided they have the right input, doodles are highly responsive to training because of their calm, eager-to-please and intelligent personality. You should still expect them to be mischievous, cheeky and headstrong, but just remember that patience, consistency and positive reinforcement will always deliver the best results. Bernedoodles are highly sensitive dogs, so losing patience or getting upset with them can be entirely counterproductive. Treats, playtime and effusive verbal praise when your dog gets it right will always be infinitely more effective than shouting at them or telling them off when they do something wrong. By doing this, you prevent them from getting anxious or overexcited when met with new experiences. Feed your pet the best-quality food you can afford and be diligent about sticking to a regular routine with feeding. There are four main types of food: wet, kibble, cooked and raw. A combination of dry and wet is often the most healthful and practical choice. When used alone, kibble can lead to dental issues and wet food can lead to digestive issues. Be sure to give a standard Bernedoodle food for larger dogs and miniature and toy Bernedoodles food for smaller dogs. Exercise While activity levels can vary depending on a variety of factors, Bernedoodles are generally considered to be moderately active. Miniature or toy doodles can be excellent apartment pets, but even these little guys will need at least one long walk per day and plenty of space to move around. Because of their intelligence, mental stimulation is just as important as physical stimulation. Grooming Requirements Take bathing cues from how your dog smells, but generally Bernedoodles need a bath every four to eight weeks. Clean its eyes and ears once per week, and give its nails a trim every time you bathe your dog. Brushing it two to three times a week staves off mats and tangles, and a trip to the groomer every three to five months helps your Bernedoodle look and feel its best. Dogs love getting pampered almost as much as we do! Doing it any earlier could result in its fur not growing properly for the rest of its life. Like many larger dog breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia are possible. With these conditions, the hips and elbows weaken and become arthritic. Some of the other potential health issues Bernedoodles potentially face include: Heart disease. However, the Bernedoodle was first intentionally bred by Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels in , as she wanted to combine the Poodles clever and goofy personality with the unfaltering loyalty of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Where the Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed, the two breeds involved in its make-up go way back. The origins of the Bernese Mountain Dog can be traced back 2, years when the Romans invaded Switzerland with their cattle drovers and guard dogs. As with all crossbreeds, you must be ready for any combination of the parent breeds physical and behavioural traits. The Poodle is an active working dog who needs plenty of exercise, thrives on having a job to do, and loves training and exercising their busy brains. The Bernese Mountain Dog is far calmer and laid-back and is often happy lying around watching what is going on. So, you could end up with a light-ish build dog who needs a lot of exercise and training, or you could end up with a heavier dog whose body and brain is more that of a friendly couch potato! Even an active Bernedoodle may not mature for quite some time, so short periods of exercise several times a day are far better so as not to permanently damage growing bones and joints. With this in mind, exercising first thing in the morning and last thing in the evening when the sun is cooler may be necessary. Take advice from both your breeder and your vet. The Bernese Mountain Dog is not nearly as common, and as a result, many people have not been able to interact with one personally, hence the frequent questions we receive about the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Bernedoodle. Bernedoodle Personalities and Temperaments? FUN So what is the Bernedoodle all about? The short answer is FUN! Read about which doodle breeds are the calmest here. The Bernese Mountain Dog takes its name from the canton of Bern in the central farmlands of Switzerland where he was bred to work on farms as a helper in various ways, from guarding livestock to pulling carts of farm supplies across the hilly Alpine terrain. As you can probably tell from his job description, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, strong dog who has the energy to do physical tasks. The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for having a sense of humor; running away with your socks or keys is one of his favorite pastimes. Although you may not find their jokes as terribly funny as they do if you do not enjoy slobbery socks or keys! Without his farm chores to do, the Bernese Mountain Dog must find other ways to use his powerful body and energy. This breed will happily snuggle with you on the sofa, but he must also be exercised daily, particularly when young. Bernedoodles Have Gentle and Caring Temperaments The Berner is known for being a gentle giant— patient with children, affectionate and devoted to his family. He is overall amiable and easygoing. However, this does not mean he is a pushover to train. Unlike the Golden retriever and Labrador, the Bernese Mountain Dog does not have a long history of therapy and service dog work. Despite being steady-tempered, he can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training and prefers to do things on his own timetable. One of the strongest qualities of the Berner is his affection. He may very well think his pound body can fit perfectly in your lap. He will want to accompany his owners as much as possible and his loyalty is simply unmatched. The other half of the Bernedoodle is of course the well-known Poodle. In fact, the sporting clip method of trimming the coat was originally used to facilitate swimming. So Standard Poodles are actually quite athletic, moderately active and extremely intelligent. Retrieving is a skill that requires dutiful obedience on the part of the dog, and the standard poodle is no exception. Poodles often excel in obedience competitions and agility exercises. They are also incredibly people-oriented and sensitive. This means they are often easy to train, but also that they require a lot of affection to be at their happiest and reach their full potential. In other words, Poodles are not the type of dog that will be content alone in the backyard all day! The Poodle lends its non-shedding coat and better health to the Bernese Mountain Dog to create a lower-shedding, longer-living, but just as loving of a companion as the purebred Berner. Still, the Bernedoodle may be more difficult to train than other types of doodles such as the goldendoodle. The Bernedoodle will need daily exercise to keep from turning his playful goofiness into a darker humor of chewing up your furniture or other bad habits. This is especially true if you are not at home for much of the day. As previously mentioned both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle are incredibly affectionate, devoted dogs. This is a huge positive to the breed as it makes the Bernedoodle one of the most loving and faithful companions in the dog world, but on the downside, they can become anxious and therefore destructive if they do not receive enough companionship. To summarize, we interviewed a few owners of Bernedoodles to get some firsthand descriptions of exactly what this breed is like.