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We have answers. The only thing you have to do is browse some of the pre-selected breeders below to find a litter or individual Fresno German Shepherd for sale that you are interested in. The last step when you work with Uptown is introducing your new companion to your home. There is a high likelihood that you will! Backyard breeders are everywhere and they can be hard to recognize if all you have to judge them by is a well-made website. A puppy mill is a factory like breeding facility where popular breeds are forced to reproduce more often than they naturally would which can cause stress and eventually health issues down the line. Do German Shepherd puppies in Fresno require a lot of exercise? Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to be quite large. Before you schedule a meeting with one of the many vetted breeders below through Uptown Puppies you should be prepared to play and run around outside with your new dog. What can I expect when I own a new German Shepherd puppy? You should be fully prepared to awake next to a friendly, energetic and loving puppy each and every morning. Will Uptown Puppies recommend a specific type of food for my puppy? We will always recommend that if you notice potential food allergies or symptoms that could be related to your pups food that you contact a vet immediately. There are a lot of dangers that come with purchasing a new dog from a puppy mill or backyard breeder which is why at Uptown we steer our customers clear of the danger and potential costly health risks! Instead our vetting team likes to focus on standardized puppy treatment, sanitary facilities and breeders who offer a more boutique experience for the end consumer. Which kinds of breeds are best for families? German Shepherds can be loving, playful and protective when they need to be, which is perfect for a couple with a growing family of kids, pets and relatives! What is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder is a term that is commonly used in the canine breeding world to describe a business that has created a breeding facility in their residence or even a spare corner of a backyard. They are now ready to go to their forev. We are a c 3 non-profit rescue based in Northern California and the Sacramento Valley. Below are our newest added German Pinschers available for adoption in Fresno, California. Seller's profile All seller items 1 Be careful! Never pay down a deposit in a bank account until you have met the seller, seen signed a purchase agreement. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. Plott Hound Puppies for Sale. Why buy a German Pinscher puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of German Pinscher puppies who need a home. I have 3 German Shepherd mix dogs. To see more adoptable Bedlington Terriers in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! We ensure each dog is highly socialized, family-raised, and genetically tested. Old English Sheepdog Puppies for Sale. There are often many great Gordon Setters for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. We are a family owned and operated, Colorado state licensed, AKC registered, home kennel in beautiful Conifer, Colorado. Golden State German Shepherd Rescue is a c 3 non-profit based in the Central Valley of Northern California Our mission is to find loving new homes for German Shepherd Dogs in need of a second chance and to educate the public about this highly intelligent and versatile breed. Fresno, California, United States xxxx xxxx. Say hello to these darling F1B Mini Goldendoodle puppies that can't wait to spoil you with love and attention. Both parents pure bred German s. When you purchase from us you can be assured of the highest quality and good temperament. Meet Azami! Azami A is a 2 year old, female, brown and black, German Shepherd blend. Call my parents to schedule a play date today! Female Black German Shepherd. She checked out just fine on her first vet visit. German Shepherd Puppy for Sale. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. I'll arrive up to date on all shots and dewormers, vet checked, microchipped, and with a 1 year genetic health guarantee for an easy and happy adoption. To see more adoptable German Pinschers in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. These curly cuties are full of life and will make the perfect addition to any family. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted …. Our Shepherds are raised in a mountain setting where they are exposed to weather, wildlife and terrain like no other place on earth. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Azami is a big girl with a loving heart, she is a bit shy in the kennels. German Pinscher puppies and dogs in Fresno, California. Female 8 Month Black German Shepherd. Page 6: German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Search for an Old English Sheepdog puppy or dog. German Shepherd california, fresno. ZIP or Canadian postal code in. These pups are in Fresno, California too! Below are our newest added Bluetick Coonhounds available for adoption in Fresno, California. Below are our newest added Bedlington Terriers available for adoption in Fresno, California. Browse photos and descriptions of of California German Shepherd Dog puppies of many breeds available right now! Tools 1 week ago on Adopt-a-Pet. Find your puppy for sale in Fresno, CA. German Shepherd puppies for sell. German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. Healthy with shots and dewormer record up to date. We provide a gal bag of food that she is used to and also probiotics for a better transition to her new home. Located high in the Rockies at over ft. German Shepherd Puppies for sale in Fresno, California. Rocky Mountain German Shepherds. Our dogs are from the highest quality imported German bloodlines and are bred for superior temperament, beautiful conformation, excellent health, and high levels of trainability. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since .Mom is 17 inches tall and 40lbs, black bi with beautiful blue eyes and a very calm sweet temperament. White German Shepherd Puppies california, fresno. If you take your new German Shepherd on walks and trips to the grocery store as puppies you'll be ahead of the exercise curve! Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. Search for german shepherd dog rescue dogs for adoption near Fresno, California. Transportation to Fresno, CA available. Bedlington Terrier Puppies for Sale. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. Americanlisted has classifieds in Fresno, California for dogs and cats. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted breeders. All of our pups are socialized and family raised in our home. Page 2: German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Find a German Shepherd Dog for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near Fresno. Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to. We believe that it is not just nature but nurture as well that brings out the best in the German Shepherd working lines. Our kennels are located in sunny Southern California. Lahna is A beautiful an adorable little girl. Azami is a big girl with a loving heart, she is a bit shy in the kennels and once you first meet her but she warms up quickly. She will also have her first vaccination. I currently have 5 male German shepherd puppies available for sale. German Shepherd Dog puppies and dogs in Fresno, California. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. German Pinscher Puppies for Sale. Here are some of our current and recently adopted dogs in our program:. Needs love and plenty of area to roam. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Rocky Mountain German Shepherds We provide German Shepherd puppies, young adults, trained adults, import service, and all breed dog training. German Shepherd For Sale in Fresno .German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. As a Hobby Breeder we selectively breed litters of German Shepherds per year and maintain a wait list for our puppies. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pets and Animals Fresno. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to be quite large. German Pinscher. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Visalia, CA German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Find your puppy for sale in Fresno, CA Puppies. German Shepherds for Sale in Omaha. These spacious kennels provide a great environment for our dogs. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale near me. They will be dewormed and will have their first parvo shot at 8 weeks. To see more adoptable Bluetick Coonhounds in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! German shepherd!!! If you can help, click here Application to send us your application. Then, email us here foster gsrnc. Not all of our rescue Shepherds are lucky enough to go directly into a foster home; some have to start in a kennel. Every rescue dog must be in a foster home before it can be adopted. In a foster home it will experience the love, care, and attention it needs and deserves while it is waiting to be adopted and we will observe the personality of the dog to help place it in the best possible forever home. Our network of rescue volunteers is there to help you with advice, and Rescue pays for the care of the dog including food and authorized veterinary expenses. Won't you consider fostering a German Shepherd who wants a second chance at a happy life? Fostering is a very rewarding experience, not only for you, but for the dogs too! Join us on October 7th for Wags to Riches! Register now before we sell out! Help us save dogs while putting yourself in the running for some great prizes! Click on the "Lucky Dog" for full details and to order tickets! Shop online at Pet Food Express by clicking on the puppy. Visit Our Dogs on YouTube.

In fact, the AKC ranks this dog as the second most popular breed! Owners of German Shepherds know that this breed can be bouncy and fun while also maintaining a calm and loving demeanor, making them perfect for many families and individuals. The distinction was particularly important if a German shepherd used a German Shepherd to tend his herd. Now onto our really important topic, food! Your German Shepherd puppy will have transitioned to solid food before you bring it home either by its breeder or caretakers at the shelter. If you decide to switch your puppy to a new food, you should do it slowly. More specifically, how frequently do you plan on feeding your German Shepherd puppy? We encourage owners to stick to the three times per day schedule, or a schedule that your vet has provided, as opposed to free feeding. An ideal feeding schedule for a German Shepherd would be: Breakfast between am Lunch at noon And dinner between pm Most vets also recommend switching to two meals a day when your puppy is around 12 weeks old. But, each German Shepherd is different. Some owners find that their German Shepherd gets too excited around feeding time and inhales his food. If your puppy gets too excited and eats his food quickly then he may suffer from some scary side effects such as choking or gagging. One easy solution to this problem is using a slow bowl feeder. These bowls have obstacles inlaid in their design that limit how much food your German Shepherd puppy can eat at once. Although puppies have strong baby teeth, so they get to eat crunchy or wet food and not mashed peas and carrots. Puppy food actually has twice the daily nutrient requirements of adult food. This formula will help your puppy as he develops his bones, muscles, joints, internal organs, and immune system. German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, like most large breed dogs, so finding a food that has a high protein percentage will help your pup in the long run. Some companies now make large breed puppy formulas with these needs in mind. Speaking of large breed formulas, when it comes time to switch your German Shepherd puppy from puppy food to an adult formula you will need to do it slowly. Just like when you were introducing a new puppy food. And remember, you may not get it right on the first try. The best way to find the right puppy food for your puppy is to talk to your vet. They will able to provide an educated opinion as to which dog food will be best for your German Shepherd puppy. For more in-depth information, such as ideal vaccination schedules or potty training tips , visit our online archive of over 10, vet approved articles. As the 20th century approached, a strict breeding program was undertaken in Germany to develop the current randomly bred shepherd dog into a more uniform herding dog with versatility and intelligence. Thus began the German Shepherd. Appearance and Size: The German shepherd dog is medium to large size with erect pointed ears, a long body, and a weather resistant coat. A thick, stiff outer coat covered by a softer inner one makes the German shepherd readily able to withstand extreme climates. Personality: The German shepherd dog is very intelligent, easy to train, powerful and elegant. Though not overly affectionate, shepherds are loyal and faithful. Training: Training should begin early in life. Untrained shepherds have a tendency to be difficult to handle and control. Since shepherds are intelligent and eager to learn, they can be trained to do a variety of tasks and perform a plethora of jobs. For more details on this breed, including info on home and family relations, special care, and common diseases and disorders visit our German Shepherd breed profile. 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. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Calories need kcal per day It is important that puppies replace the calories they are using. Three-month-old puppies should be fed between and kcal a day. Feeding amounts 1. Feeding correct amounts will help keep them on a good schedule and encourage good eating habits. On average, a 3-month-old puppy will need between 1. You can also check your food label for feeding guidelines. Feeding frequency 3 times a day A 3-month-old GSD puppy should get fed three times a day. Providing them with portions multiple times a day helps to maintain good digestion. Establishing a good schedule around eating a few times a day is excellent and can help with training. Create a plan that you can be consistent in doing. Mealtime length 15 minutes max. Food should not be left out all the time, even if they did not eat it. Removing the food after its being left out for 15 minutes. This will help to limit them from becoming picky eaters or not finishing their meals when they can. It will also encourage your pup to eat multiple times a day when it is available. It is a necessary time to make sure they are getting proper nutrition. Feeding them well at three months will help them grow strong muscles and healthy teeth. They will also have healthy skin and a shiny coat. Protein is an essential nutrient that has many benefits for growing puppies! It gives them optimum muscle development and can help to repair muscle tissues. It helps to promote a healthy coat and skin as well. Fats also play a role in your dog having healthy skin and coat. Fat will also help your puppy to absorb other vitamins and minerals. Excessive fat can cause digestion upset, but in the right amount, it is a vital part of their diet. Carbohydrates There is no set amount of carbohydrates a puppy should have, but it needs to be in their diet. Carbohydrates are essential as they are an energy source. They are also a great source of dietary fiber for your dog. Other essential nutrients e. Meat is essential and should be the primary protein source, but fruits and vegetables are also necessary. Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus help to support bone health. Vitamins like Vitamin A help to support the immune system. How much should a 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy eat in a day? There are some factors to consider when determining how much to feed your GSD puppy. Activity, age, and health are all considerations that can impact how much you should feed your dog. Activity If a dog burns a lot of calories through activity, they need the calories to compensate for that. A puppy can be very active, and they need to replace that lost energy with calories. Age A 3-month-old puppy will need more calories per pound compared to an adult German Shepherd. This is why food for puppies will usually have more calories per cup. Puppies need more calories because of their activity level and how much they are growing. 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.

Sign up for BoxerBriefs to get news delivered right to your mailbox! Get them early for holiday gifts! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We are operated and managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, and we are funded by adoption fees, fundraisers, and gifts from generous donors like you! Atlanta Boxer Rescue, Inc. If you are interested in adopting a Boxer in Atlanta, you've come to the right place. Take a moment to learn about the Boxer breed, including some of its history. When you are ready to move forward, familiarize yourself with everything you need to know before you adopt. Some Frequently Asked Questions are answered on our site as well. We strive to support your adoption to make it a success for you and your new Boxer friend. All of our Boxers have had a check-up with a veterinarian, been spayed or neutered, and brought up-to-date on vaccinations. We have also done our best to evaluate our Boxers for temperament, socialization, and house-breaking. We are always looking for great volunteers to help us. If you are interested in being a foster home for a Boxer in need, thank you! The number of Boxers that we can save depends on the number of willing volunteers like you. Please complete our Foster Application or contact us for more information. We have a lot of resources to help you. Sign up for our newsletter , contact us about any questions or concerns you might have, or seek comfort if you've lost your Boxer friend. We can't do this without you, so please consider a donation or a purchase from the ABR Store! For the complete list please see our Resource Page page. Because the boxer is so popular, the price for one will vary depending on where you are looking. For example, if you live near Detroit or Lansing, you should be able to find a boxer puppy around the middle of that price range. If you want one from a reputable breeder, however, it could cost significantly more. Prices may also vary because of the age of the boxer. Puppies are cheaper than older dogs, so you will want to shop around and compare prices before committing to a purchase. If you would like to adopt a boxer instead of buying one from a breeder, check out some local shelters or organizations that place rescue animals in homes. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Michigan When choosing a boxer breeder, you will want to be sure that they are reputable and that your puppy is being cared for properly. If they have one, this should give you an idea of how much work goes into breeding boxers responsibly which can give you confidence in your choice of breeder. Although anyone can call themselves a dog breeder, it takes dedicated breeders with years of experience to truly take care of their dogs. The Michigan Boxer Club has approved member breeders who put health above all else when breeding their dogs. You should contact them if you are looking for someone who breeds responsibly and cares about the health and happiness of their dogs. In addition to checking out the parent club, you can find a list of member breeders in Michigan on our site below. Visit Your Michigan Boxer Breeder in Person Once you have found a few reputable members, take the time to visit them in person. This will give you an opportunity to see what kind of environment your puppy is coming from and should provide some peace of mind that he or she has been properly cared for. Not only does this give you a chance to interact with the puppies, but it also helps you get comfortable with the parent club members and gives them a chance to meet you as well. Taking these first steps can help build a relationship between all parties involved which will hopefully lead to successful future transactions. Now that you know how important it is to find a responsible breeder, where do you begin? ReadPlease is dedicated to making your search easier by helping connect potential breeders and responsible dog owners. Take a look at our list of approved boxer breeders in Michigan below to get started on your search today. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Michigan When meeting your Michigan boxer breeder for the first time, you should be sure to ask them if they have any references for you. They should realize that you will want some sort of contact information, this is important information to gather before deciding on a breeder. Once you have some references, contact them to get their honest opinion about working with one another and how it went overall. The more references you talk to, the better your chances are going to be satisfied with your choice in breeder. If you are satisfied with all of your references, then it is time to put in an application for that adorable puppy. You want to make sure that you are getting a healthy dog with no genetic problems. Not only will meeting past customers give you peace of mind, but it can also help build a lasting relationship between all parties involved which in turn helps their next potential sale. Just like normal references, ask if they have any other people who have purchased from them within the last year or two that you can talk to about their experience with the breeder. This gives you a chance to really get into detail about how everything went and start building a rapport with these future friends of yours who just happen to own adorable boxers Does Your Michigan Boxer Breeder Have A Good Veterinarian They Use? There is nothing worse than having a sick puppy and not knowing what to do about it. This is why it is important to find out if your breeder has a good veterinarian they use and trust before you purchase your boxer from them. Not only does this help build a relationship between everyone, but it can provide you with someone who will be there for you when problems arise with your dog. The veterinarian can also offer advice on how to care for your boxer as well as give you the chance to ask any questions that come up about their health or behavior. Look out for The Signs of An Unethical Boxer Dog Breeder in Michigan When looking for a boxer breeder in Michigan, it is important to note the signs of an unethical breeder before visiting them. You should be wary if they refuse to show any paperwork for your future puppy such as the AKC papers, pedigree information, vaccine records, etc. Another big sign would be if they ask for money upfront before giving you any information on the potential parents, puppies themselves. Just like with anything else, you want to be wary of any contracts that are too long or confusing. Having these questions ready can help you quickly screen the different Michigan boxer dog breeders. As with any other dog, problems could arise at any time because of the genetic makeup of their parents. Things such as hip dysplasia or heart disease can be passed down from one generation to the next which is why it is important to ask your breeder about these potential genetic problems in your future puppy. This will help you avoid expensive vet bills until you know more information on what exactly is wrong with your new pup. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before bringing your new boxer puppy home, you will need to make sure that their designated area is ready for them. This includes having dog crates that are large enough for them to grow into as well as newspapers or pads on the floor where they can use the bathroom. Making certain areas of your home puppy-proof is very important. Make sure there are no chemicals, cleaning products, or small objects available for them to swallow or play with. They could cause serious injury to your dog which is why it is so crucial for their safety. Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on them until you know they are comfortable in their new home. There are a few things that you can do to help with this process though, including crate training which is seen more often in puppies. Potty training your new boxer puppy is a big job, but with the proper guidance and patience, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside just like any other dog. Good luck finding your next loving companion! I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Let's talk about our sweet boy Henry.Let's keep this momentum going!!! If you don't know Henry's story, Let's talk about him. He's a 4yo male boxer who was hit by a car in Ohio and left for dead. The shelter picked him up, and he waited alone for five long days for his family to come get him. They never came. A complete stranger saw the shelter's story about Henry online and wanted to help. This good Samaritan, despite knowing they couldn't keep Henry long-term, picked him up from the shelter and took him home and began to arrange medical care, while at the same time starting a search for others who could help find Henry a forever home. That's where MNBR comes in. One of our members saw Henry's story and connected us, and we stepped in to help secure a foster and ongoing medical attention for this good boy. Henry's original prognosis was that his injuries were catastrophic. He would need to have one of his legs amputated, plus additional surgeries to address what appeared to be major spine damage as well as damage to two of his other legs and hips. The situation seemed dire. But as it turns out, our boy Henry is a fighter!!! Despite his situation, he was in good spirits and started to show improvements in his legs, so the team decided to move forward with finding a treatment path for him. An MRI and assessment revealed that Henry's injuries, while extensive, were operable, and the orthopedic surgeon believed that they could save all Henry's limbs! Since then, Henry has had several therapies, including new water therapy, and he is healing! Henry is a sweet boy who is the definition of a champ! Henry arrived in Minnesota finally in January, since then he has been being seen at the University of Minnesota Veterinary medical clinic. But we are not getting too excited his care is not over quite yet. And he will also need follow up appointments from the surgery he just endured, bandage changes, etc. Donations are tax deductible. Click HERE to donate now. Highlighted Dogs. Exercises Grooming From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Frequently Asked Questions Are Boxers good family pets? Yes, boxers are particularly fond of their family members especially when goodly trained. Are Boxers trainable? Though the boxers can be a little headstrong, they are very intelligent and with a proper training environment, they respond well. Are Boxers friendly with kids? They are very fond of children and they love playing games with them. Are Boxers friendly with other animals? Boxers are naturally patient with puppies, pooches and small animals but a bit unaccommodating of adult dogs and other animals. Are Boxers good apartment dogs? They can live anywhere you make as a home all you need is to provide it with enough space for exercise. How is Boxers shedding? Given the shortness of their coat, they shed minimally and occasionally, you can also regulate the shedding by frequent brushing of their coat. Are Boxers good for first-time owners? Not quite, as their exercise needs are way too high for their inexperienced hands. Are Boxers loud barkers? But growling is a thing they do most. Are Boxers tolerable to heat and cold? All they need is moderate exposure to heat and cold because of their thin fur body. How long can Boxers live? The average life-span of boxers is 10 years Are you interested in purchasing a Boxer? 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We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:. This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Some owners refer to them as black and champagne or fawn. Also, when a white German Shepherd has red in its background, it shows up as a cream color. It is possible for particular black and cream German Shepherd puppies to grow into a black and tan look as they get older. Still, you cannot guarantee how the colors will shift or if they will change in the first place. Dog shows aside, black and cream dogs do not have the same intimidating look as darker dogs and can make for great gateway pets for those looking to adopt their first dog but find the alternative looks more intimidating. Ideal for: Households with young children can adopt black and cream puppies as these GSDs are easier to accept for little kids. Black All Black German Shepherds have no shot at dog shows but are much better at something else: guarding. This perception comes with the added assumption that your black German Shepherd is well-trained to deal with intruders. Even though these dogs are great at discouraging intruders, they have excellent temperaments and empathy to be family dogs. Black GSDs are not more aggressive than other varieties. Unlike solid black, most puppies only show their actual color weeks after birth. They also make shedding less annoying as the black hairs are less visible. A recessive gene causes the black color. Some black dogs have gold eyes, as shown in the image. Large houses are also perfect spacious places where such dogs must exhaust their excess energy. A bi-color features two colors, one of which is often black. Most will appear all black with brown feet or legs, as shown in the image. The AKC pioneered this categorization and is most relevant to dog shows where solid colors and bi-color dogs are judged differently. Depending on the specifics of the color, the dog-and-owner fit can vary. Sable Sable is a pattern often seen as color because of its visual impact. The sable color is named after the mammal sable, which also has a similar color. This type of German Shepherd has black peppered across its fur, giving a deeply crimson color that looks nearly indistinguishable from black and liver. The sable coat pattern appears visibly black as each hair has a black tip. Sable colors include black sable, gray sable, tan sable, red sable, and silver sable. If you like the look of this color pattern, head over to this article to learn loads more about this gorgeous variety; Sable German Shepherd. Ideal for: This shepherd dog is best for those living in sun-kissed suburbs where the true color of sable German Shepherds shines. White Featuring the look of a bleached wolf, the all-white German Shepherd is entirely white and represents quite the irony. It is often purchased because of its exotic looks but is also seen as flawed enough to disqualify from the show ring. In other words, it represents the positive and the negative results of judging dogs by their looks, where they are simultaneously loved and discriminated against because of their color. Given that the first German Shepherd was black, this dog is visually the farthest from its ancestors. There is often a misconception that this type is a mixed breed. However, the white German Shepherd is definitely purebred. Ideal for: Families with young toddlers can benefit from getting a non-intimidating dog. This leaves behind bi-color German Shepherds featuring black and a specific hue of tan that gives an overall deep gray look. Ruskin House of Shepherds They are often gray sable. However, many gray dogs have no black pigmentation, differentiating them from the sable. They have an aesthetic appearance and can tip top between work and show, though they are best kept as multifunctional pets. They look intimidating enough for strangers but acceptable even for younger children who have never had a big dog as a family pet. Nonetheless, they are pretty rare, so you may have to find a specialized breeder to adopt one. The color is rare because it is improbable to guarantee when breeding a single blue stud and rare to occur spontaneously. And the ones who breed rare GSDs only charge a lot per puppy. Since blue is a manifestation of black, it can appear in all German Shepherd looks that feature the black color. Therefore, these dogs are bred mainly in the working line, where black and tan are the most common colors. That makes blue and tan the most common bi-color look of blue German Shepherds. Ideal for: Individuals looking for an exotic, rare dog with a story would love to have a blue German Shepherd. Liver Liver as a color term is used almost exclusively to describe dark brown dogs. The shades of dark brown can vary, but the term stands. It is no different for German Shepherds, who are also categorized as a liver for being dark brown. With black not really being seen as color — white as a complete lack of color, brown has the best shot of getting the highest points for color richness — except in the show world. This is because the American Kennel Club sees livers as faults, and they cannot enter the show ring. However, liver German Shepherds are highly sought-after, making them some of the priciest German Shepherds to acquire. Still, their price is artificially inflated because of demand. Ideal for: Those who love the deep brown aesthetic will love a liver German Shepherd. Liver and Tan As mentioned earlier, German Shepherds with liver parents are pretty often liver-colored. While mutations did occur to manifest this look into the otherwise black line of GSDs, the genes of these dogs are relatively stable, making them great studs. Ideal for: Owners with prominently brown wardrobes can get a kick by extending their color preference to their dogs. Isabella Isabella German Shepherds face the same ironic fate as white GSDs, where they are simultaneously admired and acquired for their beauty yet disqualified or marked down from shows for their looks. Similar to liver dogs, the AKC views them as a fault. Isabella GSDs look lavender-flavored cappuccino in that they are a light lilac color. They have a distinctly feminine appearance regardless of gender and can make a beautiful addition to the family. Because of their non-threatening looks, they are readily accepted in suburban communities, whereas new pets can often get scrutinized unfairly. Isabella GSDs are rare because they come from a combination of recessive traits that might not even manifest in studs. Studs often have desirable dominant features, including rich colors. The Isabella color comes from the combination of liver and blue, one of which is rarely used for breeding. This leaves room only for blue genes to pass through non-blue studs, which is not entirely likely. Ideal for: Those who want to make a statement with one of the rarest German Shepherds will be satisfied with an Isabella dog. However, they better be willing to pay the premium. You cannot have a Sable Shepherd without having reddish fur. But the distribution of red and black or silver and a lot of black is what matters: the lighter coat makes up the backdrop over which the darker fur is peppered. Ruskin House of Shepherds Sable shepherds are rarely sable all over, and portions of their body feature only one of the two colors that make up their sable pattern. In other words, given black and red as primary sable-makers, these dogs are more likely to be black and sable or red and sable. Sometimes you can get a rarer color sable, such as the liver sable in the image. Brindle German Shepherds are the closest to sable in that they also consist of one color peppered across another in tiger stripes or a marbled pattern. Instagram: alastian. Black is far more prominent, and these dogs are the closest to the second generation of German Shepherds. Panda A Panda German Shepherd looks like a white or bi-color dog who tried to apply eye shadow for the first time. The area around their eyes is black, reminiscent of a panda. They have white color featured across their chest, limbs, feet, and tail tip, similar to a Border Collie. Panda Shepherds do not have any other similarities with the panda; the dog has an active temperament compared to the lazy panda. The gene is dominant, meaning it only takes one parent to replicate the pattern. It is also seen as a fault for conformation. My German Shepherd Pup Willow Still, getting a German Shepherd puppy with many white spots is a risk if you plan to enter him in a dog show as an adult. But if you do not care about dog shows, the white markings can be charming. It is rarer to find white spotting in black GSDs. These spots are more common in black and red, black and cream, black and tan, and liver variations. However, they blended in with her adult coat in time. A German Shepherd can have a black, blue, silver, or brown saddle though other colors are not definitively excluded. Saddle-back German Shepherds have to be bi-color by definition because the saddle is visible only in contrast with another, often lighter, color. Blanket The blanket is yet another pattern independent of color. Just like with saddle GSDs, being bicolor is a prerequisite just to spot the blanket. The saddle pattern has a better shot at dog shows between saddle German Shepherds and blanket ones. Since the blanket is dark, dogs with this pattern have an intimidating presence and are often used by the police and protective patrols. This makes them excellent guard dogs as they carry the same connotations. Mask Mask refers to the face of a German Shepherd with visible contrast in the face compared to the surrounding region. On the one side, they can have black fur over their faces, which gives the appearance of a mask, but the rest of their body can feature stripes brindle or the sable pattern. This study of dogs with colored masks found that the mask is caused by a specific allele referred to as a melanistic mask. Mask German Shepherds have a unique appeal, which makes people go to great lengths to acquire them. The mask is almost always black. In case the mask is a lighter color, it is categorized differently. The area around the mouth can be lighter, making the German Shepherd look more like a wolf. Some reverse masks also have a dark stripe down the muzzle, as in the image shown. Needless to say, these German Shepherds can be pricey simply because of their resemblance with wolves. They also are intimidating again because of this similarity. All the connotations they have with wolves, and their wildness come in handy when scaring away intruders. However, this is a myth, as they are as easy or difficult to raise as regular dogs. To breed them, you must have both the mother and the father, who carry the same reverse mask look. Like the masked variety, German Shepherds with a reverse mask can have other patterns as the mask or the reverse has to do with their faces. Speaking of wolves, the closest a GSD can come to having a wolf-like appearance is to have a reverse mask look and be a blanketed silver sable. The rarest color of German Shepherd is Isabella, which is also known as lilac. Not only is this color visually appealing, but it is also difficult to predict when breeding. The recessive blue and liver getting combined are not very likely, which makes almost all Isabella shepherds pleasant surprises. Getting a lilac shepherd from a reputable breeder is advisable because unscrupulous breeders may repeatedly breed puppies and neglect the non-isabella dogs hoping to profit from the lilac pups. Black is prominent across most variations of GSDs. From black and tan, often working lines, to black and red for showing, most German Shepherds have a hint of black. If you are looking for the most common overall color of a German Shepherd, the two that come out on top are black and red and black and tan. The show line dog of this bicolor look will be the cheapest yet will command a price significantly higher than a working dog of the same pair of colors. Some German Shepherd colors, such as blue and white, are controversial because they have been linked to genetic health issues, such as skin problems and deafness. Breeders who prioritize these colors over health can perpetuate these issues. Yes, the color of a German Shepherd puppy can be predicted based on the colors of the parents and the genetic inheritance of the color genes. By understanding the basics of color genetics, breeders can make educated guesses about the colors of their puppies. Do German Shepherds Change Color? German Shepherds do change color, especially if they are bicolor. This happens when they mature and shed certain colored fur but never grow it back. The color change is most prominent in brindle GSDs and sable shepherds, as the decrease in one shade of fur leads to a change in the overall look of the dog. No, the color of a German Shepherd does not affect its temperament. Temperament is determined by genetics and upbringing, not color. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are descendants of dark dogs but have come a long way since they were first shown as the perfect cross between beautiful and work-ready. GSD colors can vary from lighter ones like the rare Isabella all the way to solid black. The pattern variations include mask, sable, brindle stripes, and saddle, whereas colors can be solid or pair from the pool of black, red, tan, blue, silver, cream, liver, white, and gray. With over 30 years of experience working with dogs, this former Police Officer has seen it all. Find her on Linkedin! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Yes, German Shepherd puppies are actually born black! They can also be born gray and white, as the coats will gradually change color as they grow older. By about eighteen to twenty-four months of age, a German Shepherd puppy should have its final coat color , and it will stay that way! However, many German Shepherds can be born black, and their coats may stay black. Some German Shepherds that are born black will never gain their color, and will remain with a black coat forever. However, this is incredibly rare, and it is said that only about 6. It may surprise you that German Shepherds can actually be born in three different colors. They are typically either born black, white or gray in color, and you will see the color change from the age of 8 weeks onwards, but it can take up to two years to see the final color. Black and tan German Shepherds are the most common, and they will gradually get more tan as they age, with the browner colors appearing around the face, tail, ears, and stomach as time passes. In addition, a German Shepherd that is born black can either grow up to be black all over, or they may fade to another color such as Sable, Gray, Black and Tan, Brown, Black and Silver, or other variations of the breed. Even if you have a puppy that has been black for more than 8 weeks, it is very unlikely that it will stay entirely black as it grows. Black German Shepherds are extremely rare, and most will turn more Sable colored or Tan as time progresses. Whilst German Shepherds can come in a few colors , their coats also vary in length and thickness. The most common German Shepherds will have very thick, long, fluffy hair, but some can be short-haired. The German Shepherd breed has two pigments in their fur called eumelanin and pheomelanin. How these pigments interact with other genes in the German Shepherd puppy determines how the coat will turn out! For example, the pigment called eumelanin is responsible for the color black. On the other hand, pheomelanin defaults to red, which can create Red Sable, or deep brown tones and pale gold colors. If you are hoping to find yourself a black German Shepherd, then you may have a tough job in doing so. A black German Shepherd is actually very rare, and is down to genetics and pigmentation, so even with a black parent, it is not guaranteed that the puppies would be black in color, or remain black in color as they grow. The most promising combination for a black German Shepherd puppy is if both parents of the puppies are black themselves. This will give you the greatest chance of achieving all black puppies. However, some black puppies can come from parents that are both black and tan, or if one parent is black and tan, and the other is black. It sometimes is just down to luck. That being said, if both parents have the solid black color recessive gene, meaning they are fully black all over, and not even slightly black and tan, then it is likely that the puppies will be born black, and will stay black as they grow older. As black German Shepherds are incredibly rare, some people are under the impression that they are a different breed altogether, but the black variant is a recognized version of the regular German Shepherd dog. Although they are the same breed, there can be some differences between the Black and Tan German Shepherd and the Black German Shepherd. For instance, a black German Shepherd can quite often be much larger than the regular German Shepherd. They may also have a much straighter back than a normal German Shepherd. In addition, black German Shepherds can sometimes have a thicker coat, especially at the neck and on the front and back legs. You may also notice that some black German Shepherds will have thicker fur at the ears and around the tail, which is why some people think that they are a different dog breed as they can sometimes look more like wolves than German Shepherds! Some black German Shepherds may also have much fluffier coats, or a stronger, more athletic build and erect, pointed ears, however it does depend on the dog itself. As previously mentioned, the black German Shepherd is a much more rare occurrence than the more common Black and Tan German Shepherd, and as such, they can be harder to come across and much more expensive than any other type of German Shepherd. However, you should exercise some caution when trying to purchase a black German Shepherd, as many breeders may advertise a black version of the breed, which may not exactly turn out to be. In addition, purchasing from a reputable breeder will ensure that the dog does not have any health issues or problems later in life which can also cost you thousands of dollars, too! To ensure that you get a good quality dog, you should always find out the parentage of the puppy. This means either asking for documentation to prove the father of the puppies, and checking to see if the mother is with the puppies, and properly cared for. You can also research which breeders are trustworthy by looking at registered breeders on the American Kennel Club website. Some people are under the misconception that black German Shepherds are highly different to regular German Shepherds, and have different temperaments and health issues or ailments. However, this is not always the case. A great number of people seem to think that black German Shepherds are more aggressive than regular German Shepherds, and may be more prone to angry outbursts or aggressive behavior. German Shepherds are typically very active, intelligent, alert, friendly, loyal and loving animals, but there may always be some that show signs of aggression or misbehavior. This can be solved with a solid routine and expert or professional training. You have to keep in mind that because German Shepherds are so intelligent, they need a lot of mental stimulation and attention to keep their minds engaged and active. This means giving them a lot of exercise, time, energy and toys to keep them focused and interested. Otherwise, you may notice some aggression, anti-social, destructive or bad behavior as they tend to act out and become naughty if they are bored. Summary To summarize, German Shepherd puppies can be born black, but not all are. Some German Shepherd puppies can be born black, white or gray, and may stay this color for about 8 weeks. After this period has passed, the puppies will begin to show their true colors shall we say, and turn their final color. At this point, most German Shepherd puppies will become that common Black and Tan color that we know and love, however some will have different genes and pigments, which will result in a black German Shepherd, but this is very rare. In order to get a black German Shepherd, both parents would need to be black, or one would have to be black and the other black and tan. This is why all black German Shepherds are considered a rarity, and are therefore much more expensive than normal ones. However, the black variant of the German Shepherd is no different in temperament, health or breed. To see some German Shepherd puppies with their beautiful black colors, check out this video! Finding a responsible breeder is an important part of getting a dog. Why pricing matters, not all dog breeders charge the same prices. My Story, How it worked out for me, and what I learned about purchasing a puppy. The black German Shepherd was the first dog that I have ever owned. I just love how beautiful the solid back color looked. Is the black German Shepherd Right for you? He told me that the solid black German Shepherd was the color people were looking for along with the black and tan and black sable color. These were becoming the most popular color he was selling. Why, because more breeders were starting to see other GSD breeders selling more puppies with the popular colors. They decided they needed to start breeding these colors too. The more popular color, the more demand for breeding them. It makes sense to me. Now over the years of owning multiple German Shepherds, I have black, black, and tan colors and solid black. Now, I like to take you back to the year when I purchase my first black German Shepherd. Everywhere I went people stop and ask me questions about the color because they have never seen a black German Shepherd before. I have one guy ask me how much I pay for my dog, and I told him the cost was .But for me, I was happy to pay for the color. I got the exact temperament dog that I was looking for. Now you will pay anywhere from .The shipping cost runs around .Do black German shepherd puppies stay black? If you see a dark brown that would be a black sable color. Are all German Shepherd puppies born black? All puppies are born black and will stay black throughout their adulthood. This is a must-have Both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. This is why we get a lot of good mixes of both colors in our puppies. Black sable male puppy. Anywhere from 10 weeks to 14 weeks of age, the ears will start to stand on their own. How much does a German Shepherd cost? Anywhere from .My puppies sell for .This is important for you to understand before you buy a German Shepherd Puppy or adult trained German Shepherd dog. Now, I like to give you a good base price on what you and I would pay for a GSD puppy that was six months old to 12 months old, that already has been trained with basic obedience training and properly socialized and housebroken by a good trainer. The cost would be around six-month-old .There are a lot of breeders out there, who will charge more for a solid black puppy. In the last litter, I had four black and four black dark black sable color puppies. I sold my puppies for the same price. But a lot of German Shepherd breeders do. How many puppies do German shepherds have in their first litter? When it comes to breeding dogs, anything can happen. There are no guarantees. I have seen GSD dogs bred that sometimes only had one single puppy. The normal litter size is about 8 puppies. But I have seen some females that have bred up to 10 puppies at a time. The last litter I bred had 8 beautiful healthy puppies. A good friend of mine had bred his German Shepherd and had 12 puppies. But most of the time eight puppies are a normal litter size. Is a German Shepherd a good family dog? Are you considering bringing a puppy into your home? If so, you should do a fair amount of research into the hundreds of breeds that are available both for purchase and adoption. Considered by many to have the most beautiful coloration in the breed, the all-black GSD is quickly gaining popularity as a pet. If the stunning good looks of the black GSD are attractive to you, here are some things that you should consider before bringing that adorable puppy home. About the Breed The German shepherd dog originated in Germany in .A working dog in the herding group, the GSD was originally bred to herd and guard sheep. The breed is amazingly intelligent, fiercely loyal and protective of its human family. The breed is also extremely popular in the United Kingdom, with over 8, currently registered. The all-black German shepherd dog is a striking animal to look at and is becoming the popular variant of choice among new owners. Family The GSD is an excellent family dog, provided that it is well socialized and raised with children. Though these dogs bond deeply with children whom they have been raised with, they can be nervous and skittish around strange children and adults alike. If you choose to bring home a GSD puppy, be sure that you have a plan in place to socialize the dog. Additionally, if you choose to rescue an adult GSD, you should ensure that the dog has been raised with, or at least socialized with, people of all ages to ensure the safety of your family and friends. Teaching German shepherd dogs are incredibly smart and eager to learn. Teaching should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. The easiest way to begin teaching your black German shepherd puppy is to set a schedule and stick to it. Dogs, especially GSDs, thrive with routine and are happiest when they know what to expect. Training Because of their intelligence, high work drive, and loyalty, German Shepherds excel at obedience, agility, herding, protection, and even flyball. If you plan on bringing home a GSD, you must enroll in some type of formal training. If your GSD is not permitted to drain its energy, you will have a destructive, unruly dog in a matter of months. The type of training that you enroll your puppy in should be something that you can enjoy together; neither of you will have fun if training becomes a bothersome chore. Dark Black Sable. A black German shepherd dog can be an excellent choice for families of all types. You should have at least some experience with dogs before you choose to welcome this breed into your family. This is not a dog to be spoiled and coddled; it needs to be raised with a firm but gentle hand if it is to thrive. The dark black Sable German Shepherd is really popular in the Schutzhund training world today! Schutzhund is a dog training sport that was developed in Germany. The Germans use this for testing their dogs to see how far they could go in training as a temperament test for training the German Shepherd Dogs. It is a great dog sport. What does the word Schutzhund mean? This is the owner of Kraftwerk K9 kennels. Wayne has trained and handled many different dogs in competitions worldwide today. I highly recommend checking out his website. Conclusion: We cover a lot of information in this article about some of the most popular questions most people are searching for. If I miss anything that you were looking for. Please post in the comments. Talk, soon!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Located on a 40 acre farm east of Denver, Colorado we have plenty of space for our dogs to run around and get exercise. Unlike typical breeders we do not confine our golden retrievers to small kennels, but instead let them run and play as much as their hearts desire. Health Guarantee To ensure the health of our golden retrievers we make sure they are always up-to-date on: Health Checkups Shots Health Screenings - OFA certification for hips, elbows, and thyroids We also focus on the mental health of our dogs by keeping them happy interacting with people and other dogs on a daily basis. This ensures excellent temperaments, great dispositions, and that they are extremely well mannered. Before they are sent to their new homes each puppy gets a health checkup from the vet and their first round of shots. We also offer to microchip your puppy when you pick them up to keep them safe. In addition to all of this, we offer a health guarantee protecting against many hereditary problems. At birth: We help the mama clean the puppies so they are introduced to human scent from birth. Birth - 4 weeks old: We bottle feed the puppies in supplement to their mother's milk to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition. Handled from birth to get used to human scent Free time outside their kennel so they can explore their surroundings. Introduced to our pet cat and other dogs to become comfortable around all kinds of animals. All of the things mentioned above are part of how we ensure that our puppies are happy, healthy, and playful when they are ready to go to their forever homes. To see information about available golden retriever puppies and to see pictures from past litters click the links below. Home of Kennel free living and lots of loving! Good Gracious Goldens was created in when I decided to follow in my mothers footsteps as she has been raising them for over 3o years. Recently we welcomed our 3rd child and decided it was time to split the work without compromising the experience for our adopting families. Now we are working along side Lone Oak Goldens, my dear friend Lori. This decision is not one we took lightly as our reputation is very important to us but I knew her care and expertise would only make us better! I could not imagine a more wonderful partner. She raises them in her home in NE and brings them to my home when they are ready as most of our adopting families are in Colorado including many repeat families! Now I can put all my focus in the communication I pride myself on quick replies , while Lori is loving on the puppies and socializing them getting them ready to meet you! And trust me when you see these puppies you'll see just how much love was poured into them!! I like to say us working together for you, is the truly best of both worlds! We love the English Cream and American Golden breed. We couldn't imagine a better way of life! Of course watching them grow up and thrive is amazing, but I would say my favorite part is seeing the families faces when they see their new family member. Thank you for taking the time to read about us! Our Philosophy! We believe dogs and puppies should be unconditionally loved and cared for as they truly become part of your family. When choosing the right puppy for your family, there are many choices out there. Some puppies are raised in undesirable conditions, this is incredibly heart breaking. Which is why we raise our Golden Retrievers with absolutely no kennels. We believe this makes us different from other breeders. As we are continually trying to improve our breeding program. Our reason for raising English Creme Golden Retrievers is because of our love for the breed and the joy our dogs have brought to our lives. We desire an extraordinary puppy for your family too. When you pick us, we have to pick you too, as we too are selective when choosing forever homes for our pups. Within the first 8 weeks of their lives we spend a lot of time helping them develop social skills and simply loving on them. We get to know each one of the puppies and are fully committed to helping you choose the puppy that is best for you and your family based on gender, temperament and color. We recently joined our breeding program with Lone Oak Goldens. Two families raising puppies together equals double the love! We want to thank you for taking the time to let us introduce you to our family dogs "Grace", "London","Ellie", "Viva", "Margo", "Cooper" and "Hudson" along with their sweet puppies! We look forward to meeting you soon! Sincerely, Libby and Lori. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Denver Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Denver? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Denver? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Best Golden Retriever Breeder in Colorado? Well, we will let you be the judge, but we love our dogs like family and treat them as such. We do not over breed our dogs or participate in any crossbreeding tactics or exotic dog types. We are Golden Retriever lovers, enthusiasts, and protectors. Every dog is like family to us. While we are happy to entrust our puppies to loving families, we do have a puppy acquisition process in order to ensure our high quality dogs are delivered to warm homes that are able to care for our dogs properly. Every puppy we sell is depending on us to properly screen new owners, so please understand we take this seriously. This also protects your interests and maintains high standards for you as well. All puppies MUST be picked up in person. No exceptions. Golden Retriever Lovers Welcome! If you have a wonderful home for one of our puppies, we would love to hear from you. Whether you want a family retriever or a specialty dog for hunting, we will help find the exact fit for you. Many times there is a waiting list so apply early! If you are just getting started and would like to discuss our process, we are also eager to hear from you. Contact Us Today! Look at the current breedings or litters we have or are upcoming and fill out our contact form specifying what breeding you are interested in. Before puppies are born we only take deposits on the first pick, second, and possibly third picks on both males and females. After puppies are born and all spots are filled you will be told what pick you have. Get ready to welcome a lovely puppy that will bring all the love and affection. Tucker is now 3 born and is my best companion. Tucker is the quintessential Golden, beautiful, faithful, active, family-oriented, and geez I cannot come up with enough good things to say. Tucker is my soulmate. He makes me smile every day. If I feel bad he cares and comes to comfort me. He is so wonderful. My parents adopted another Slater Creek Golden, different parents, and she is phenomenal. So beautiful and sweet. Slater Creek Goldens are all love, loyalty and so much fun. Linda — you and your pups are my favorite ppl! Linda you will be in my heart forever. We have answers. Begin by perusing our vast selection of pups to find your favorite. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? First, our nationwide selection makes acquiring a new Golden Retriever Denver realistic for anyone - no matter where they live! Secondly, our network of vetted breeders and businesses abide by a rigid standard of excellence that mandates full transparency and flawless ethics, giving you the peace of mind you need to buy with confidence. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Denver ready now? All of our listed pups are available immediately, but they might not stick around for long! Golden Retrievers are beloved worldwide and remain one of - if not the - most coveted pup in our listings. Otherwise, you might miss out on a golden opportunity to make a lifelong friend! We understand that transparency is paramount when searching for a happy and healthy fur baby, which is exactly why we supply as much of it as possible. To put your mind at ease, we use a thoroughly vetted network of breeders and businesses that offer optimal transparency and are always available to answer your questions - no matter how big or small they might be. Do you sell the cheapest Golden Retriever puppies in Denver? We reject those abhorrent practices in favor of providing a boutique experience with a network of reliable breeders and businesses that remain committed to providing maximum transparency and flawless ethics. How do I know that my Golden Retriever for sale Denver will be healthy? Our nose-to-tail health checks will give you everything you need to feel comfortable with your new Denver Golden Retriever for sale. This includes everything from basic updates on the eyes, ears, and mouth to more complex data on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Is it enough to walk Golden Retriever puppies for sale Denver, or do they need more exercise? Like people, most dogs need to stretch their legs on a daily basis to stay happy and healthy. For Golden Retrievers, this rule of thumb is especially true. In fact, these active pups generally require open spaces like fenced-in backyards or dog parks that allow them to truly get a good run in. If locked indoors, they may grow restless and begin to misbehave! Do you recommend specific food for my Golden Retriever for sale in Denver? Eating is one of the Golden Retrievers favorite activities and, if left unregulated, they can quickly grow obese as a result. We recommend feeding them a steady diet of meats and vegetables in moderation - nothing too fancy. Which kinds of breeds are best for families? The Golden Retrievers for sale in Denver! In fact, there might not be a better family dog than these furry rays of sunshine! Goldens are adorable, easy to train, and a true joy to be around. What are some of the most intelligent and easy to train breeds? Once bred to work alongside humans as gun dogs, Golden Retrievers for sale Denver possess an innate drive to follow instructions and satisfy their owners.

Kristina began raising puppies before we were married and loved it so much that she kept doing so after we were married. Now we all help with the puppies and the kids love playing with the pups every day. This makes for friendly puppies who like people and are good with kids. We are now a five-star classified breeder who has served many happy puppy parents. We hope you can become one of them! She will always answer your calls and answer all of your questions so well and patiently. We purchased our gorgeous cavapoo Henry … More Mr. Ian 2 weeks ago and we could not be happier. He is the first puppy that I have ever met who slept in the crate on the very first night without crying. He sleeps through the night for hours and has not had one accident in his crate. He is calm and lovable and extremely social. Clinton and Kristina did an amazing job at socializing him. He is the sweetest little cavapoo boy! His addition to my life has been such an amazing experience. My vet gave him a good bill of health upon arrival. Any questions I had while working together, they were very helpful and patient. Overall, it was a wonderful experience to get Archie to his forever home. I have zero regrets about my decision, and who would have know that a puppy could really help improve my daily life. I would recommend anyone to purchase their pup from hopeful dreams. We brought home our sweet cockapoo puppy last week and are amazed at how well behaved she is. It is clear that the … More Martin family takes great care of their puppies. Already planning on getting a second puppy from them in the future! Check out some of our favorite Mini Goldendoodle Puppies ready and waiting for their new forever home…. However, it can be riddled with many questions and obstacles along the way. You can also start here at Doodle Doods in search of breeder reviews. See Also: Click the image One of the most important things to look for is rigorous health testing for genetic conditions. An ethical breeder ensures that all parent pups are tested for various hereditary diseases that Goldendoodles are prone to. Health testing should include OFA for hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, heart, eyes, and thyroid. For hip and elbow dysplasia, breeders can also provide PennHip testing. Equally important is that a breeder provides at least a two-year health guarantee that covers any tested genetic conditions. A good breeder has no problem showing you the health records and walking you through everything you might want to know about. Additionally, a good breeder has a great track-record in terms of past adoptions and litters. Look for online reviews, testimonials, or you can even ask the breeder if a previous customer would be happy to share their experience with you. All of the breeders in this article are highly-rated, follow ethical practices like rigorous health testing, and are recommended by many happy Goldendoodle owners. View all New York Goldendoodle breeders listed in our extensive Doodle breeder directory! This exceptional breeder specializes in Multigenerational Goldendoodles due to their higher non-shed success rate. In fact, all of their lines originate from AKC registered purebred parents. Fox Creek Farm follows the best, most current enrichment protocols. They raise their puppies with the Puppy Culture program , Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , and even introduce the pups to doggie door training, crate training, and basic commands. What Makes This Breeder Unique? At Fox Creek Farm, all of their parent dogs have been extensively tested and cleared for numerous genetic health conditions, including the hips, elbows, patella, eyes, heart, and many others. Waitlist: Yes, but be sure to contact them for current availability — who knows, you might get lucky! Goldendoodle Breeder Contact Details:. As I type this she just climbed up to sit in my lap and fell immediately to sleep. We only wish she came into our lives sooner! Every day we marvel at how quickly she learns and matures. She is totally my shadow — following me around the apartment from morning to night and jumping with absolute joy when my husband gets home from work at the end of the day. It's hard to have a bad day when Rooster is around. Thanks for everything! She is happy all the time. We love and have raised Golden Retrievers for the past 27 years but wanted a smaller, golden-type dog with less shedding. Winnie is everything we were looking for in a dog - smart, adorable personality, 30 lbs, loving, easily trained and so friendly to people. She gets compliments wherever we go. It was a pleasure working with you Janelle. Thank you for Winnie - she is a wonderful addition to our family. We highly recommend Bella Mini Doodles and already have several times. Justin Chapman Feb From day 1 Penny has been an absolute joy! It ended up being quite the opposite! Kara Gauvin Jan We decided to get 2 mini golden doodles, a brother and sister - Cab and Margaux! Janelle was so helpful in the process, answering our numerous questions right up until pick up day : These 2 puppies have essentially been our "therapy dogs" and have brought so much fun and enjoyment into our lives! Thank you so much! Welcome to Lakeview Doodles of NY! We care about our dogs, so to get them off to the best possible start, our puppies are raised inside our non-smoking, loving home with our children. This enables them to become used to the sights and sounds of an active family household. We have the good fortune of living on the shores of Lake Ontario located in Upstate New York, where we enjoy invigorating breezes with ample room to romp and play! On our website, you will find information about, and photos of F1b and Multigen Goldendoodles and Double Doodles. We follow NYS guidelines and regulations. All of our breeding parents undergo extensive health testing. This includes not only full genetic testing for over diseases, but also both parents undergo and have passed all the tests for their hips, elbows, patellas, hearts, and their eyes are checked every other year by our ophthalmologist. We would be happy to provide you with copies of their testing. When available, we also offer personal delivery of your puppy, and their starter kits, in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Ohio and Vermont. We will not ship or fly a puppy alone, but will welcome you to fly to get them. It is also possible to fly your puppy to you accompanied by one of our family members.

German Shepherds for sale in Missouri Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Missouri with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Missouri. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. Louis, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Included within the cost of our puppies are: Lifetime health guarantee contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers in MO that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in MO! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in MO We like to think we've made a lot of people in Missouri happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. He is so sweet, intelligent, and such a cutie. Cynthia was very knowledgeable and eased our minds in regards to this larger breed. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. The picture of puppies in the bathtub is a past litter of German Shepherd puppies from Robin Blue. They are all adults now and all have happy loving homes and awesome families they live with. I have been a German Shepherd breeder since .I have all colors black and tan, black and silver, black and red, bi-color, black, white, black and tan brindle, sable brindle, silver sable, tan sable, fawn, blue, liver, and red sable of German Shepherd puppies. I have German Shepherd puppies for sale as pets that are wonderful, loving, family protectors. I also have full working line German Shepherd puppies for sale that would do well in a working job, SCH, agility, therapy dog, search and rescue, or as a very energetic family member. They are all sweethearts. Feel free to call or email. I always enjoy meeting and talking to people that are interested in German Shepherd dogs, as I am. Thanks for your interest in my puppies. If you are interested in having one of my puppies be one of your new family members you will have to call me on the telephone and talk to me about the puppy. I love all my puppies and just try to match them up to the right homes. If you are interested in one of my puppies please call me at home or my cell is .I will return your call. If you have any questions about any of my puppies you are welcome to email me too. My email address is whitefamily semo. I only have one email address. So if you are interested in any of my puppies I look forward to talking to you on the phone. I am proud of all my puppies and their parents and always enjoy talking about them all. German Shepherd Breeders in The Other States If you are looking for a German Shepherd then you are looking for a protective, lovable, and devoted companion. This breed is by far one of the most versatile breeds that are great family dogs, agile sport dogs, or calm therapy dogs. No doubt no matter what life your pup is destined for there will be no shortcomings in their loyal personalities. Getting a German Shepherd Puppy is no quick choice but in this blog, you will find a list of reputable breeders who has that special pup waiting for your family. Here there are ten German Shepherd Breeders in Missouri. This list is to help you determine the breeder you would like to go through but remember to always talk to them and make sure you know what you want from the breeder and the bloodline before getting a puppy. Vom Waldenhaus German Shepherds Vom Waldenhaus German Shepherds First up on the list is Vom Waldenhaus German Shepherds, a family-run operation dedicated to the health and betterment of the dogs and puppies they breed. Since the Forrest family has selectively bred their dogs to get a bloodline of sound-minded and well-structured dogs. With a long list of imported West German Show Line dogs used as the foundation of their bloodline, you will find puppies with few, if none, of the breed debilitating diseases such as Hip and Elbow Dysplasia and DM Degenerative Myelopathy. When taking care of the puppies they come with AKC registration, health guarantees, vaccines, and a comprehensive warranty. To ensure the best outcome for your puppy they keep them until ten weeks of age to provide proper socialization and to minimize the stress the puppies receive during transit or when they are first left alone at their new homes. This extra time gives the Forrest family the time to go a little further and ensure another, if not the last, round of puppy shots, starting on crate training, and potty training. They breed a specific set of genetics that gives their German Shepherds strong bones, sound minds, great temperaments, a willingness to please, natural protective instincts, and a mild drive for a total all-around family dog. The dogs you get from them are not going to be high-drive dogs with a strong bite, but good all-around dogs for the family that can work well in obedience, search, rescue, or therapy dogs. With such a specific selection for breeding, most of their dogs are black and red in color. And for 25 years have had no exposure to fleas on the property removing any chance of illness caused by them. You can be certain if you get a puppy from them they will be up to date on all health checks, vaccines, microchipped, and AKC registered.

Pug Names Do you wonder what's a great name for a Pug dog? This breed is so unique looking, he or she's just gotta have a really cool name! Do you want to see if the name you chose is on our Exclusive List for this breed? Have a great suggestion for a name that fits the breed? Then you came to the right place! Most of the following names have been submitted by Pug owners. The most popular names are those that begin with the letter P, however others such as Mugsy and Mopsy are often chosen as well. Have fun as you read all of the cool names that owners have thought of and see below on how to submit your dog's name if it is not on this list. Choosing a Name in Multiple Dog Households When you have more than one dog, it's best to choose names for your dogs that do not start with the same sound. Canines often only pay attention to the first syllable that humans speak. If both dogs have names that begin the same way, they may become confused. An example would be "Roxanne" and "Rocky"; both Pugs may run to you when either name is called out. There are 2 things that owners should do: 1 Say the name a lot. Be sure to say it along with all of the "come here" commands. Look at your puppy and get his attention when you say it. You want your pup to associate the name with something good.So don't say it if your pup has an accident, is chewing apart your shoe or does anything else that may cause frustration. Be sure to say, "No" and show your Pug what you do want him or her to do, but refrain from using his or her name at these times Pug Names Starting with A Ab - Ad. Bantam— A bantam is a small breed of chicken. Button— A button is a small, round object used for sewing. Dwarf— A dwarf is a person who is much smaller than the usual size. Gnome— A gnome is a tiny, old man, in folklore, with a beard and a pointed hat. Hobbit— A hobbit is a fictional, human-like creature that is small in size, with hairy feet. Mite— A mite is a small, insect-like organism. Peewee— Peewee means someone or something very small. Runt— Runt means the smallest in a liter, usually puppies. Baby— A baby is a small newborn. Cupcake— A cupcake is a bite-sized cake. Dainty— Dainty means delicately small and pretty. Elf— An elf is a small, human-like figure, in folklore, with pointed ears and possessing magical powers. Jellybean— A jellybean is a small, bean-shaped sugary candy. Mini— Mini is short for miniature. Morsel— Morsel means a small amount or piece. Pixie— A pixie is a cheerful, mischievous mythical creature of folklore. Teeny— Teeny means small or little. Ozzy— Ozzy is the aging, excitable, loving pug dog of Professor Bomba in Epic. Patrick- Patrick is the cute, mischievous, spoiled pet pug of Sarah Francis in the British Patrick. Percy- Percy is a pug with gray ears and face, and a small black nose in the Pocahontas movies. Sebastian— Sebastian is the gentle, kind, party-loving best friend of Chloe in the Beverly Hills Chihuahua movies. Sprinkles— Sprinkles is the very excited pug in the buddy-cop movie Show Dogs. Mabel— Mabel is the overweight pet pug of Walter, an elderly widower, in the romantic comedy movie- Dog Days. Oracle— Oracle is a pug, with cream-colored fur and sky-blue eyes, who lives with Jupiter, a Newfoundland dog in Isle of Dogs. Precious— Precious is an energetic, fearless, loyal pug who is owned by Lucky, a peanut cart owner, in The Nut Job and its sequel. He has nearly 13 million followers on social media. Batman— Batman the Batpug is a pug from London who loves dressing up as his favorite superhero- Batman. His Instagram has , followers. Homer— Homer is an Australian pug who loves food and naps. He has an Instagram following of , His Instagram features , followers. She has an Instagram following of , Moka— An Italian pug who loves adventures with other dogs, creating playful videos, outdoor walks, and cute outfits. Her Instagram has 95, followers. Gidget— A surfing pug who raises money for the Stoke for Life Foundation. Her Instagram features 86, followers. Molly— Molly is a pug from NYC who loves giving kisses and taking naps. Her Instagram has 40, followers. Miss Pickles— A canine fashionista from Toronto, Canada. She has an Instagram following of 24,

These Pugs may be sold as miniatures, micros, pocket pugs or even teacups. However, the term teacup usually refers to a dog that is around 4 to 6 pounds 1. It is incredibly unlikely, if not impossible to get purebred Pug down to this size. Despite this, Teacup Pugs are still advertised and sold, and it is possible that they may be recognized by some designer dog registries. However, it is important to be cautious when considering purchasing a Teacup Pug as many of these dogs are the result of unethical breeding practices. This way, pug owners may buy a teacup Pug puppy, only to have them grown to typical Pug size as adults. Another way is through breeding dwarves , which can result in health issues for the dog and even if you do breed dwarves, dwarfism is not always passed onto offspring. Breeding runts or smaller Pugs, often with inbreeding, and withholding food to stunt growth are also unethical practices used to create Teacup Pugs. Crossbreeding Pugs with smaller breeds like the Chihuahua is another way that Teacup Pugs are created, but this can lead to unpredictable traits and health issues. Nevertheless, Crossbreeding Pugs with smaller breeds is probably the most ethical way to get a genuinely smaller Pug type dog. In conclusion, while Teacup Pugs may seem like a cute and desirable option for some, it is important to be aware of the unethical breeding practices that often go into creating them. It is recommended to instead seek out a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. The Pug breed originated in China, where they were bred to be companions for royalty. The Teacup Pug is believed to have been bred in the United States in the s, by crossing a Pug with a smaller breed such as a Chihuahua or a Pomeranian. In fact, many breeders and veterinarians caution against breeding Teacup Pugs and other teacups due to the potential health problems associated with breeding dogs to be unnaturally small. Pugs are already classified as a toy breed because of their small size. Breeders achieve this size by selecting the smallest pugs from litters and breeding them together. However, because of their very small size, they can sometimes face additional health challenges. Toy Pug: This term is a bit redundant since pugs are already in the toy group. Despite this, Teacup dogs have gained popularity in recent years due to their small size and cute appearance. However, it is important for potential owners to do their research and understand the potential health risks before deciding to bring a Teacup Pug into their home. Physical Characteristics of a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are small and compact dogs, with a height of around 6 to 10 inches 15 to 25 cm and a weight around 4 pounds 1. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, silver, and apricot. Their coat is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming. The Teacup Pug has a distinctive wrinkled face, which is one of its most endearing features. Their eyes are large, round, and dark, and their ears are small and folded over. They have a short, stocky body with a broad chest and a curly tail. Teacup Pugs have a friendly and affectionate personality, and they love to be around people. They are playful and energetic, but they also enjoy lounging around and cuddling with their owners. They make great pets for families with children, as they are gentle and patient with kids. Overall, the Teacup Pug is a charming and delightful little dog that is sure to bring joy and companionship to any household. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Teacup Pug Behavior Teacup Pugs are known for their playful and affectionate behavior. They are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. However, they can be stubborn at times and may require a firm hand during training. Teacup Pugs are social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs. They thrive on attention and love to be cuddled and petted. Despite their small size, Teacup Pugs are energetic and require daily exercise to keep them healthy. They enjoy short walks and playing in the yard. However, they are also content to snuggle up with their owners on the couch. Teacup Pugs are known for their friendly nature and get along well with children and other pets. They are not aggressive and rarely bark, making them ideal apartment dogs. Overall, Teacup Pugs are wonderful companions that bring joy and love to their families. With proper training and care, they make excellent pets for individuals and families alike. These include genetic disorders and physical health issues in Pugs as well as issues that affect teacup dogs. Genetic Disorders Teacup Pugs are prone to a number of genetic disorders, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and brachycephalic ocular syndrome. These conditions are caused by the shape of their skulls and can lead to respiratory and eye problems , including red eyes and wheezing. They may also suffer from dental problems due to their small size and crowded teeth as well as obesity. Other genetic disorders that teacup pugs may be prone to include hypoglycemia, collapsing trachea which can affect their ability to bark , hydrocephalus, and neurological disorders. These conditions can be serious and require immediate veterinary attention. Physical Health Issues Teacup Pugs may also be prone to a number of physical health issues. Obesity is a common problem for teacup pugs, as they have a tendency to overeat and are less active than larger dogs. This can lead to joint problems, such as hip and back issues. Teacup Pugs may also be prone to skin and ear infections, sliding knee caps, and other issues. It is important to keep their skin and ears clean and dry, and to monitor their mobility and overall health. Caring for a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are adorable pets that require proper care to maintain their health and happiness. In this section, we will discuss the essential aspects of caring for a Teacup Pug, including their diet and nutrition, exercise and play, and grooming. Exercise and Play Teacup Pugs are energetic dogs that require daily exercise and playtime. They enjoy short walks, indoor play, and interactive toys. Grooming Teacup Pugs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming and the occasional wash with a gentle 5-in-1 Dog Wash. Dog eye cleaning wipes like Dog Eye Wipes With Tear Stain Remover can gently eliminate residue build-up around the eyes and lighten existing stains. In addition, Teacup Pugs require regular nail trimming, and dog ear cleaning wipes like Dog Ear Cleaning Wipes can help eliminate ear wax, dirt, and odors while keeping their ears itch-free. Training a Teacup Pug Training a teacup pug requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These small dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and easily distracted. Keep training sessions short and frequent, as teacup pugs have short attention spans. Make the crate a comfortable and inviting space for your pug, and never use it as a form of punishment. Socialize Your Pug Socialization is important for teacup pugs, as they can be timid around strangers and other dogs. Introduce your pug to new people and animals in a controlled environment, such as a dog park or obedience class. Be Consistent Consistency is key when training a teacup pug. Use the same commands and techniques every time, and make sure that all family members are on the same page when it comes to training. A certified dog trainer can provide personalized advice and guidance to help you and your pug succeed. Choosing a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are a popular breed due to their small size and adorable appearance. However, choosing the right Teacup Pug can be a daunting task. This section will provide some guidance on how to choose the perfect Teacup Pug for you. Adoption Adopting a Teacup Pug from a rescue organization can be a great option. Adopting from a rescue organization not only gives a loving home to a dog in need, but it also helps to prevent unethical breeding practices. Rescue organizations typically provide this information to potential adopters, which can help in making an informed decision. Buying from a Breeder While adopting is recommended, some individuals may still choose to purchase a Teacup Pug from a breeder. Avoid buying from a breeder that prioritizes appearance over health or that has a history of breeding dogs with health issues. This can help ensure that the puppy comes from healthy and well-cared-for parents. Whether adopting from a rescue organization or purchasing from a breeder, taking the time to do research and make an informed decision can lead to a happy and healthy life with your new furry friend. Frequently Asked Questions Are teacup pugs real? Yes, teacup pugs are a real breed of dog. Do teacup pugs shed? Yes, teacup pugs do shed. However, their short, fine coats require minimal grooming and shedding is generally not a major issue. What is the difference between a Mini Pug and a regular Pug? How much do teacup pugs cost? How small do Teacup Pugs get? Teacup pugs are typically smaller than regular pugs, but their size can vary greatly depending on the breeding. Some teacup pugs weigh as little as pounds, while others may weigh up to 10 pounds. What is the smallest breed of Pug? The Pug is a breed of dog, and there is no smaller breed of Pug. However, teacup pugs are often bred to be smaller than the average Pug. Are Teacup Pugs generally healthy? Teacup pugs can be prone to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, dental problems, and joint issues. Final Thoughts In conclusion, the teacup pug is a delightful and charming breed that is perfect for those who want a small, affectionate, and low-maintenance pet. They have a lot of energy, but they also love to cuddle and be near their owners. Despite their small size, they are very sturdy and can handle rough play with children. One thing to keep in mind is that their small size can make them more prone to health issues, such as respiratory problems and joint issues. With proper care and attention, they can make wonderful pets for many years to come. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Because of this, Teacup Pugs can reach high prices. Some breeders work to produce smaller and smaller puppies, which is done by breeding with toy breeds or breeding the runts. Unfortunately, this means breeders are selecting for size rather than health or temperament, so you could have a puppy that grows into an adult with behavioral or health issues. This unofficial term is more of a cute buzzword that highlights the novelty of these tiny dogs, which can often literally fit within a teacup. A toy breed, on the other hand, is an official term for small versions of standard breeds. Image Credit: kikkian, Shutterstock 3. They were favored as the impish companion of Chinese emperors and became the beloved mascot of the royal House of Orange in Holland. They make excellent companions and enjoy playing with their owners, including young children. Be sure to always supervise interactions, however, particularly if you have large dogs that can easily injure a miniature pup like a Teacup Pug. Puppies should be on high-quality puppy food for the first year. Then they can transition onto a quality adult formula. Small, stocky dogs like a Pug can suffer from health problems if they become obese. Still, Pugs are playful and lively, so they will engage in some exercise to stay fit. Short-faced breeds like Teacup Pugs and standard Pugs often struggle to cool themselves in hot and humid weather, however, so be sure to limit exercise in the heat. Early socialization is important for keeping Pugs friendly and tolerant of other pets and people. Regular brushing will remove loose hair and prevent shed hair from building up. They also benefit from occasional baths, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. Allowing the nails to grow too much could cause discomfort and, in severe cases, arthritis. Because these dogs are sometimes selected for their small size rather than good health, they can be more susceptible to common Pug health issues. Eye problems often occur, as well as ear issues, skin allergies, mange, and skinfold infections. Like other short-faced breeds, Pugs struggle with breathing conditions. Minor Conditions. With the Pug dog being the largest of all toy breed dogs, there is confusion among many people as to whether there is an actual breed of the Miniature Pug or "Pocket Pug" The Answer There is no such recognized breed as the Miniature Pug dog, toy, teacup or other term used to denote a smaller than average dog. However, there is a dog that is called a Miniature Pug One dog that is referred to as a mini Pug is a mix of a Chihuahua and a Pug dog. It is also called a Pughuahua or a Chugg sometimes spelled 'Chug'. Some refer to this crossing of two purebreds as 'designer' or 'hybrid' dogs. The result is a canine that looks extremely similar to a Pug, however one can notice a difference in the length of the snout which will be just a bit longer. The body of a matured "mini Pug' will be leaner with longer legs. This will depend on the Pug to Chihuahua gene ratio that is passed down to the puppy; though most will be smaller than a typical Pug. Final adult weight will range from 3 pounds 1. Is This Safe? Yes and no. Many discourage the mixing of purebreds. It does not help toward breeders' goals of maintaining integrity and improving the bloodlines of either purebred. Breeding and subsequent pregnancy can pose risks. If a Chihuahua is chosen as the dam, with a Pug being the sire, the puppies will have larger heads due to Pug genes than otherwise. The breed is already prone to needing C-sections and this sort of crossing only increases the chances of that. Pocket Pugs While a breeder can in fact breed a Chihuahua with a Pug to produce what the public knows as a Miniature Pugs, there are others who claim to have "Pocket Pugs" Some breeders will take 2 runt Pug dogs dogs that are the smallest of their litter and then breed them together, hoping to produce smaller than nature intended dogs, and will dub them teacups. When you take two tiny dogs, that are smaller than the breed standard, these dogs may require more care. Bones may be more fragile, there may be issues with hypoglycemia, etc. To pair two tiny Pugs will only serve to produce more Pug puppies that are too small and with more potential health issues. Others will falsify the pup's age so that one will believe that they are receiving a small Pug when that dog is actually younger than the papers show. As you can imagine, this is highly unethical and is very dangerous for the pup's health. Caring for an Undersized Pug If you have obtained the so-called "Miniature Pug" or "Teacup", care will follow along the guidelines of the care of smaller toy breed dogs such as the Pom or toy Poodle. Because this dog will can be as small as 3 pounds 1. You may also have a Pug that happens to be smaller than average due to Mother Nature. What is considered small? However a pocket pup these sizes may be growing slow. He or she may have a growth spurt later on and reach the standard size. Here are things that you can do to best protect your undersized or mini Pug: When driving in the car, any dog should be fastened in safely with a seat restraint. However, a Miniature Pug will be especially vulnerable to falling off of the car seat during a sudden stop or quick turn and can be injured very easily. Care must be taken when family members are walking around the home. Small children must be aware that this dog can scoot under their feet quickly; if a child or any person stepped on a Miniature Pug by accident, great harm would be done. Having a mini Pug sleep in an owner's bed can have risks. Being so tiny can hold the risk of suffocating under thick blankets or being rolled onto unintentionally during slumber. This smaller type of Pug will not be able to hold their elimination quite as long and time and patience should be given in regard to house training. This very tiny dog will be considered an "underfoot dog"; as they should be. Very tiny pups and dogs can be easily stepped on or tripped over.The weather may affect this Pug more than usual. It is recommended that any small toy breed dog have dog clothing for outdoor elements. A small dog should be protected from the cold, most importantly. Rain gear is also suggested. If your Miniature Pug is a cross between a Pug and a Chihuahua, there may not be any extra health concerns. However if your tiny Pug is a result of unethical breeding, health issues can be many. Did you find this article helpful? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. TC pugs are a better choice for first-time dog owners as they love to please their owners more than anything else and are also easily trainable. They are consistently friendly, happy-go-lucky dogs with the eagerness to impress always. Their biggest downside is their many health problems , so make sure you have the money for potential health problems and empathy for a dog who may not have a year life. Most non-black Pug dogs fawn, apricot-fawn, silver-fawn and some black Pugs have double coats, a short outer layer, and a soft inner layer. Double the coat means double the shedding compared to single-coated TC pugs. Young TC Pugs have minor shedding compared to their adult counterparts. Once a Pug reaches the 15 months mark, the shedding will increase. While Pugs shed all year round, there can be a considerable increase in both the spring and the autumn. Though this seasonal shedding is somewhat dependent on temperature changes, it can also be triggered by changes in sunlight hours. It is recommended to brush a puglet no less than 3 times per week or as often as once a day. It is also essential to get through the coat immediately before giving the wash and right afterward. Although these dogs are stubborn streak, they do not insist and look forward to pleasing. The teacup or toy Pugs or pocket Pugs have many great qualities for being more than just your pet. They are attention-seeking and energetic, always running around and being part of the family. As they age, they become much quieter and more docile, but even there, they will still want to be with their favorite person — YOU. TC pugs are not the lively socialites like the other toy breeds are. They are a bit more serious, with a sly sense of humor. Overall, happy-go-lucky, peppy, animated, family-friendly , and spirited dogs love to have human companionship, especially children and seniors. You get a Teacup Pug. You come pretty close to making friendship! Negatives The best thing to do is to examine each of the negatives and make an honest consideration of whether this behavior will bother you or not. It is also critical to recognize that the trait is a controllable behavior or an innate feature present in the TC pugs that will be part of two of your future lives. Miniature pugs are voracious eating machines and do not know when to stop, making them gorge like anything and gain a lot of weight. They also snore quite a bit, which becomes irritating to deal with after a while. TC pugs are also exceedingly clingy. They will accompany you wherever and wherever, and these dogs aware that they push this phenomenon to an extreme. It is just the way they are… It can become a bit awkward after a while. They have an uncanny ability to think in rather cat-like ways, such as they enjoy their home comforts in much the same way that the cats do, they are pretty independent streak, like to have things on their terms too, and this is perhaps part of the reason why TC pugs do tend to get on well with cats. They seem to have two basic speed settings: Dormant or full throttle. TC pugs can be very energetic, enthusiastic, and good-humored about things. They usually disburse their energy in short bursts of activity. Still, tempted? What is a teacup dog? How are teacup dogs made? Teacup versions of already small dog breeds include Pugs, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas, amongst others. Puppies are often photographed sitting inside of teacups, to showcase their small size. But how are these teacup versions made? There are a few ways. Teacup dogs are usually produced by breeding runts together to create the smallest version of the dog possible. Unfortunately the small dogs chosen to breed are sometimes also not the healthiest. They may be small because of a birth defect or other medical condition, and that can then be passed on to their offspring. Health risks for tiny versions of dogs can be significant, and breeders often take these risks because they want to rake in the big bucks. Another way a teacup dog might be bred is by mixing smaller breeds. For example, a teacup pug might have a small amount of chihuahua in them, to ensure a smaller size. What is a Teacup Pug, or a Toy Pug? What is the pug breed standard? Glad you asked. What is a very small pug called? In the United States and Canada, the pug breed standard only has one classification — standard. However, people do use certain words to describe purebred pugs that happen to be on the small side. They often just have one goal: to breed smaller and smaller dogs. Common health risks that come with breeding small versions of dogs include: Hydrocephalus: also known as water on the brain, hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain. Hypoglycemia: a condition where the blood sugar glucose level is lower than normal. Collapsing Trachea: Tracheal collapse is when rings of cartilage in the trachea begin to flatten out, making it difficult for air to get to the lungs. Patella Luxation: or sliding kneecap, is a condition where the knee cap rides outside the femoral groove when the knee is flexed. They can also be prone to seizures, respiratory issues, and liver shunts. These health issues and complications result in higher vet bills, and dogs with shorter life spans. Share your comments below. Pin for later! This is largely due to their natural charm and loving temperament, which usually extends to children and other pets. Distinctive physical features include a large round head, big dark eyes, and a wrinkled brow. An adult Pug stands between 10 and 13 inches and weighs between 14 and 18 pounds. To be classed as a Miniature Pug they simply need to fall below these parameters when full grown. In some ways, a small dog seems like having a puppy forever. There are three ways to miniaturize a dog breed. The first is to mix a standard breed with a smaller breed, as in the case of the miniature Pug. The second way is to introduce the gene for dwarfism, also known as achondroplasia. The final way is to repeatedly breed from the smallest, or runts, of litters. Mixed Breed Minis Chihuahua Pug mixes can look quite Puglike as puppies, albeit often with shorter muzzles. But their personality will be quite different to your average Pug. Both the Chihuahua and the Pug are already very small dogs. Each of these breeds has more than their share of inherited health problems. The Chihuahua and the Pug have the same amount of teeth as any dog. The problem is that little dogs have little mouths, and their teeth crowd together. This puts the miniature Pug at a high risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Due to their small size, Chihuahuas have trouble giving birth and often require cesarian sections. If a Chihuahua is the dam and the Pug is the sire of a miniature Pug, the mother is very likely to have difficulty producing a litter. Dwarfism Genes A popular method of shrinking a puppy down in size is introducing the gene for dwarfism, which shortens the legs and therefore their height. However breeding for extreme conformational traits has been shown to result in an increased risk of certain diseases. And using the gene for dwarfism has been linked to intervertebral disc disease along with some other painful conditions. Breeding From The Smallest Dogs There are breeders who try to create even smaller dogs by breeding two runt Pugs together. These dogs are referred to as micro mini Pug puppies or pocket Pugs. When dogs are way under the breed standard , they can already possess health issues like hypoglycemia and heart defects. Breeding two extremely small dogs together is very likely to cause even more health issues and is highly unscrupulous. General Pug Problems Any Pug or Pug mix is at risk of the two main health complications this breed is prone too. The endearing short muzzles, wrinkled facial skin, and bulging eyes are associated with brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. This makes them prone to seriously compromised respiratory systems. Their short flat faces make it very difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. This means they can overheat very quickly in warm weather. Abnormally shallow eye sockets , which make the eyes protrude, are another issue for brachycephalic breeds. Screw tail is another disease brachycephalic breeds are genetically predisposed to. If the deformity occurs higher in the spine, it can be very painful and cause severe neurological problems. How to Avoid Unscrupulous Breeders Miniature Pug puppies, like many miniature breeds, are a hot commodity, and breeders are getting thousands of dollars for these pint-sized pups. Unfortunately, this is a huge incentive for disreputable breeders to create smaller and smaller dogs. If you see advertisements for micro mini Pugs or teacup Pugs, this is definitely a breeder to avoid. Another red flag is if there is no waiting list and puppies are immediately available for purchase. Ask questions about their breeding practices. Any reputable breeder should be informed about the health issues surrounding miniature breeds. Miniature breeds are usually prone to more health issues. Their unnaturally small size means they also become injured more easily. When you have two small breeds like the Chihuahua and the Pug, who already have many health problems, you can see that this is a dog who is greatly at risk. The only way to stop breeders from creating very small dogs is to not buy them. Perhaps this is a fad that will soon cease to be popular. But in the meantime, dogs specifically bred to be tiny and fragile are suffering.