german shepherd puppy personality

Do German Shepherd puppies change color? Yes, as they grow, these puppies naturally change their coats. Expect a dramatic coat change as it turns into an adult. Do you ever wonder how these puppies go through color changes? You can witness these fun replacements of colors until your dog reaches two years old. They naturally change their overall appearance as they age. Even the color of their eyes changes, too! Adult coats simply replace them gradually as they grow. When you see a newborn puppy, it will be hard to tell what its dominant color will be. There are also German Shepherd puppies that are born with overall white color, which is an exception. White pups will stay all white until adulthood. At Age 0 to 2 Weeks At this age, changes to the puppy coat begin. Some keen dog breeders can tell if the German Shepherd puppy will have an all-black coat or change its color. Aside from coat color, you can also tell at this point if your dog will have short, medium, or long coats. They may turn all black, or their color may develop a darker or lighter color. At 4 to 6 Months When German Shepherd puppies turn four to six months old, they start to shed off their puppy furs. As a result, their coats gradually become thicker and denser as well. By this time, you can see your puppy develop into an adult dog. There will be small or drastic changes, and at this stage, you can usually tell what the dominant color of your dog will be. This is one of the most exciting stages. You can certainly tell if it has turned out to be black, black and tan, gray, or sable. You can often see them in the show ring. However, the original color of German Shepherds is sable because they were bred as working dogs. Nowadays, there are a lot of colors that German Shepherds can have. Black and Tan When you think of a German Shepherd, the first picture that comes into your mind is black and tan. The black appears mostly on the upper limb and their faces, while the dominant color for the chest, neck, and underbellies is tan. Black and Red For this one, the black color mostly appears on the saddle or upper limb and face. The chest and underbellies, however, will have a dark red appearance. Black The dog has a pure black coat, and it is very rare. You cannot see any visible color on them aside from black. Their origins are either both black parents or black and tan. Bi-color Bi-color dogs are those that have a dominant black coat color with a sign of another color. Their face, legs, and feet may have minimal color variation. They are bred intentionally. Gray German Shepherds with gray color have a distinctive appearance. You will see the whole body of the dog with the dominant liver color. You can see most of them in dog shows. Its coat is literally like that of a panda! This is a purebred dog and not a combination of parents with different color breeds. The rare gene altercations are responsible for its cute color. The coat appears to have more black and tan colors and a few white spots. Sable Sable is one of the most popular colors of German Shepherds. You can mostly see this coat color with the working lines of German Shepherds. Red Sable Red sables are rare breeds. They are sold expensive because of their unique color. It resembles a rich brownish-red coat. Its fur has black tips. At 24 months, German Shepherds generally tend to stop changing their colors. If you notice an excessive change in color at this point, consult your veterinarian for immediate assessment. There might be some underlying conditions that you need to address. All canine friends are great companions. When you own a German Shepherd, you will be amazed at how they change their colors into adulthood. Each German Shepherd has its unique coat color. The genes have the biggest impact on their color. The most important thing to note is that you own a healthy and happy German Shepherd regardless of its color. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. They have a strong and dominant personality. On the other hand, a solid white German Shepherd has a shy personality. But if trained well, just like any other GSD, they are hardworking, loyal, intelligent, and brave breed. However, their unusual light skin and golden eyes make them rare as well! They are the majority of the black GSD that is considered as the original color of the breed. Black could mix with tan, red, silver or cream, and even white. They are considered as one of the most popular colors of the GSD and popular in Hollywood as well! The majority of their bodies are black, and as puppies, their colors lighten. The color tan can be replaced by other colors, such as red. They can also be found in a working field. Black and Red — Similar to the black and tan GSD, but the color tan is replaced by a red or strawberry-type like color. They can be found in the show field. But they could still be considered as Black and Red color. Bicolor Almost black — The majority of their bodies are color black. Yet, the legs have a different color, for instance, brown, gray, or Agouti, and they also have no saddleback. Blue — Their origins are unknown. Still, the blue pigment appeared when the black color was diluted, turning the skin to a liver brown color that can appear blue in our eyes. Gray — They have the same appearance or color as the wolf. Liver and Tan — They have a unique brown color of the incomplete black pigment. Their overall look could look brownish with little to no color of black. They were born in a tan color, yet as they grew up, one additional color or two also grew, replacing the Tan. White — Snowy-fur light-colored GSD that could mean solid and pure or mixed. It shared the same bloodline as German Shepherds. Yet, it is presumed that they are independent or recessive from other colors. Rare Colors These are the German Shepherd considered as a severe or genetic fault. This means for different reasons, their colors are unusual for the GSD breed. Panda — They have a pattern of white color with black spots. It is said that they are the result of Piebald coloring occurring as unpigmented white spots. Liver — They have a recessive gene that blocks the black pigment from appearing, thus replacing it with brown. Pale and Dilute — anything that looks pale or lighter in color, such as white and liver GSD. They are indeed one of the most unique canine breeds. Final Thoughts The way we see it, German Shepherds do change color as they grew up. Rapid or Unusual changes are abnormal and should be taken to the Vet for immediate care. And lastly, this article made us appreciate them all. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherd dogs will change their coat color fairly consistently from the time they are born until they are about 2 years old. This change in color is the most dramatic during the first 8 weeks of life. During this time German Shepherd puppies will change from their birth color to the young coat that will resemble their coat as an adult. This means that their soft puppy fluff will change color for some breeds, and will also start to change in texture. Over the first two years of life, your German Shepherd puppy will change its coat frequently. These changes will alter the coat color, growing in the color and pattern that your dog will possess for the bulk of its adult life. During this time your German Shepherd will also lose the soft coat of a puppy, and grow a more dense, coarse coat of an adult. Changes in coat length, coarseness, and color will progress during the normal pattern of molt. You will notice obvious patterns of shedding or molting in your German Shepherd, generally, two times per year. Most dogs, molt during the fall and during the spring. Grooming It is important that you are diligent during these times of molt with grooming your German Shepherd dog, especially if your dog is long-coated. German Shepherds, especially long coated German Shepherds, are prone to matting due to their coarse coat texture. Matting can be painful for your dog, so make sure that you brush them often during these times of molting. Good grooming of your German Shepherd during molt will also help to keep your home free from excessive amounts of hair. The changes that you will notice in the color of your German Shepherd dog will be subtle and are similar to the coat color changes that most dog owners will notice with their pets. Just like people, German Shepherds will start to show a greying of hair as they age. You will notice this change, particularly around their eyes and muzzle. This change will be particularly noticeable on German Shepherds that have dark faces, or on black German Shepherds. This change in their coat may make your German Shepherd look less colorful than they did as a younger dog. Along with graying and a dulling of the coat, you may notice that your German Shepherd is losing more hair, and their coat seems thinner, as they get older. This, like a change in face colors and a duller appearance, are natural progressions of aging. However, if you notice that these changes happen very rapidly, you may want to visit your veterinarian. Rapid changes in color or coat thickness can be an indication of a more serious problem. If your German Shepherd starts losing hair in thick patches or has a rapid change in color this could indicate health problems like thyroid issues, cancer, or liver issues. As a German Shepherd owner, you may not be able to stop the natural change in coat color as your dog ages, but you can take steps to help keep their coat soft and thicker as they age. German Shepherds are great family companions, and they have many unique traits that make them amazing, special dogs. Their coloring and change in color as they grow is one of the most interesting and unique features of the German Shepherd. However, it can make it more challenging if you are new to the breed and are looking to buy a puppy of a specific color. In the long Run Our advice when you are shopping for a German Shepherd puppy, in a specific color is to work with a reputable breeder. Good breeders will be able to help a new German Shepherd owner or one that is looking for a particular color, find the right puppy to add to their family. And remember, rapid changes in color can be a sign of serious health problems and should be addressed by your veterinarian. These are the natural color changes you can expect with your healthy German Shepherd dog. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Puppies When choosing a companion dog, it is normal for coat color to be a major consideration. But how about the German Shepherd coat? Do German Shepherd puppies change color? This article will discuss German Shepherd puppy coat coloring and how that coloring changes over time. Yes, German Shepherd puppies change color as they develop into adulthood. Even after they completely shed their puppy coat and grow their permanent adult coat, you can still expect to see some subtle changes in color. Instead, it sheds and changes continuously from birth to around 6 months. Once your German Shepherd turns 7 months old, the changes to their coat color will be more subtle. Nevertheless, it will continue to transform until they become adults at around 2 years old. Puppies are single-coated and their fur is generally soft and fluffy. Over time, they will shed that coat and develop a double-coat composed of dense fur and coarse outer hairs. Thick, downy fur helps puppies regulate their temperature within their first few months of life. However, their needs will change as they develop into adults. In the spring, German Shepherds blow their undercoats in preparation for the warm summer months. They will again shed heavily in the fall to develop a thicker and possibly darker winter coat. However, their appearance will still change—possibly multiple times—until well into adulthood, which starts at around 2 years old. However, you may still notice some subtle changes in thickness as the seasons turn. The color might also change slightly due to various factors like diet and sun exposure. However, experienced breeders can often tell whether a puppy will be long-coated before they turn a month old. It is also common for some unique markings to appear or disappear at this time. Nevertheless, the change in appearance might still be significant between 7 and 18 months old. Their shade could become darker or lighter, and their coat pattern can show some slight changes as well. Changes could still occur as a result of diet, environmental exposure, or health issues. No matter what color you prefer, your German Shepherd will benefit from proper nutrition and supplements for dog coat growth. Liver These are all approved show-ring standard coat colors in case you want to show your GSD. But is there any way to know for sure what coat color your GSD puppy will have when they grow up? First-time German Shepherd owners are often very surprised to learn that a large breed dog like the German Shepherd can continue growing for 24 to 36 months. An adult German Shepherd dog may weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall paw pad to shoulder. That is a lot of growth that needs to get done. For this reason, genetically speaking, it is advantageous for a large breed puppy to grow in spurts, spacing it out over time. Canine coat color experts explain that dogs have two basic pigments: eumelanin melanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin Eumelanin pigment always defaults to black. Eumelanin not only determines basic coat color but also controls for iris eye colors and nose colors. Phaeomelanin Phaeomelanin always defaults to red. Like eumelanin, the introduction of different genes can determine where on the red spectrum phaeomelanin expresses shows up. Unlike eumelanin, phaeomelanin only affects coat color and not eyes or nose. This is the chart many breeders use to design breeding programs to focus on certain coat colors. Each parent dog contributes a set of genes that control for color: coat color, eye iris color, and nose color as well as skin color. If you have a preference for a specific adult coat color, whether because you want to show your GSD or you are developing your breeding program, the best guarantee is to work closely with a knowledgeable breeder who understands coat color genetics. There is one exception to the coat color change to be aware of: often GSD puppies born with white coats will stay white. The coat is no exception here, as we mentioned in the introduction here. When your GSD puppy is born, all the puppies are typically but not always solid in color. The most common GSD puppy colors are black, grey, or — surprisingly — white. Kennels Von Lotta, a German Shepherd breeder, and kennel have posted this picture of a litter of newborn neonate German Shepherd puppies that were born black. Whelping to 2 weeks The puppies will start to show some differences in coat color and also coat length. By the day mark, breeders say it is often possible to tell if a GSD puppy is potentially going to grow up to have a long coat. As South Florida Shepherds kennel and breeder explains, the very same parent dogs can produce GSD puppies with very different adult coat colors. Because nearly all GSDs are displaying their permanent adult coloration by 18 to 24 months, continued changes or a sudden recurrence of color changes should always be investigated further. Now you know what to watch for as your little fluffy German Shepherd puppy starts to display their full and fabulous adult coat color and pattern.

Whether you just brought a new English Bulldog puppy into your life, or adopted from a bullie rescue — You need to learn about harnesses. Finding a correctly fitted bulldog harness can be a challenge. English bulldogs are a unique breed, for so many reasons. One of which is their short and condensed stature. This can lead to frustration and difficulty in finding the best fitting harness for bulldogs. Brachycephalic breeds like English and French bulldogs have smushed faces and their famous underbite. But they also have broad shoulders, deep chests, and stocky frames. Because of these physical characteristics, bullies are difficult to fit for harnesses. You may wonder why a pet owner would buy a harness, instead of just a regular collar. Many dogs can successfully wear collars made from leather, nylon, or even sometimes chrome. Note: This page includes affiliate links — which means I may receive some sort of compensation at no cost to you if you sign up or make a purchase through these links. Some pet owners and trainers do very well with them. However, I would never recommend using a choke collar on a bulldog, or any brachycephalic breed. Their tracheas are typically more narrow than other types of dogs. Also, while their esophagus is essentially the same length as other breeds, they are more compressed in a bulldog. Their short muzzles cause their airways to collapse a bit, sort of like an accordion. Which can be exacerbated by strenuous activity, warm weather, and even obesity. So if the bulldog already has a hard time breathing, why would anyone want to restrict their airway any further? Any possibility of a bulldog pulling against a collar can be harmful. Why even take that kind of risk by putting a collar on your bullie? How Collars Can Affect Bulldog Safety In addition, stubborn bulldogs who pull in the opposite direction can have their share of collar issues as well. Since bulldogs tend to have thicker necks, their collars can tend to be roughly the same circumference as their heads. As opposed to other dog breeds, who have slimmer necks in proportion to their heads. Especially when it comes to younger pups, who tend to be unpredictable and may have less training. Ask me how I know this — I have a vivid recollection of when my first bulldog was a puppy. She backed right out of here leather collar when I was taking her outside for a walk. And she started running around the parking lot where I lived, as I desperately chased her. Luckily, two of my neighbors helped me catch her, and I brought her safely back inside. Instead, the force is spread evenly over her broad chest. There are many training harnesses available to assist with bulldog puppy training or any active dog who has a propensity for jumping. No pull harnesses help support training activities and defer your bullie from pulling away from you. If you have a bulldog, then you know how stubborn they can be. At times, they will plant their paws squarely into the ground, refusing to budge. But with a properly fitted no pull harness, you can help your bulldog to walk confidently by your side. These are reviews based on my experience as a bulldog owner, over the past two decades. The links below also will bring you to the Amazon product page for each dog harness. To be clear, these are from my experiences, as well as reviews that these harnesses have received online through Amazon. However, I have not tried every single English Bulldog harness in existence. So therefore, please keep in mind there might be other great ones out there. But from my own personal experience, here are some of the best harnesses I have used with my bulldogs, and gladly recommend to others. And, it goes without saying, please do your own homework. If your bulldog has special needs or different proportions from the norm, be sure to choose the harness that is best for your particular situation. Personally, I think this can be the crucial timeframe for finding the right harness for your bulldog. Also, getting your English Bulldog accustomed to wearing a harness when they are young is always a good idea. Otherwise, you may encounter a struggle when they are older. My male bulldog has always been great about wearing his harness and walking on leash. Any time we left the house, he needed to be fully equipped and harnessed. Putting a Harness on a Fussy Dog On the other hand, our younger girl is not as comfortable with wearing her harness. By the time we brought her home, we were living in a house with a fenced-in yard. So she grew up being leash- and harness-free the majority of the time. We would only put a harness on her when going to the vet, training, or any other outing. She eventually concedes, but not as quickly or amiably as my bullie boy. But she is also a lot sassier than he is, in general. Made by Babyltrl, the harness is made from a premium durable nylon oxford with an internal layer of soft padded material for comfort. It is designed to be both no-choke and no-pull. A Collar or Harness for an English Bulldog? Like their cousins, the French Bulldog , English Bulldogs have been bred with short faces brachycephalic. Respiratory problems are common and can lead to excessive panting and loud snoring. With all dog breeds, if you have a dog that pulls when walking on a dog collar and leash — pressure can be put on the neck, particularly if the dog is prone to suddenly bolt. This is particularly true for Bulldogs who may already have issues with respiration which could be made worse by constant pressure on their necks. For an English Bulldog puppy, a harness can take the initial strains away which can lead to long term issues. It can also train them to reduce or extinguish pulling behaviour. For an adult, the harness can offer support as well as continually allow the dog owner to control their pet reinforcing good behaviours. It is essential to find a harness that not only can deal with the strength of an English Bulldog but can also offer support to reduce any undue pressure on the dog. Dog collars , though useful for ID tags and walking well-behaved dogs, can be problematic and with enough force can slip off. It is definitely worth considering a harness for your English Bulldog. No Pull Harness for an English Bulldog As the name suggests, a no-pull dog harness is one designed to reduce pulling. Given the strength of a British Bulldog, when they decide to pull — the person walking can feel it. Not only that but a poorly designed or fitting harness can be ineffective in reducing the pulling behaviour. The second type is a front range, a harness type that includes two leash attachment points. The main lead attachment is normally located at the back top of the dog and any good lead can be clipped on for normal walking. The other point is usually located at the front chest and can be attached using a double-ended training leads. These training leads, such as the HALTI , can be used as a normal leash or can be separated out so both ends can be attached to the harness. Your dog can then be guided similar to the way a horse is manoeuvred. There are several examples of both harness types in the collection below. Types of Bulldog Harnesses Vest Harness: This is a basic type of harness, generally inexpensive and lacking in features — it can be a great alternative to a dog collar for well-behaved Bulldogs. Leash attachment points of vest harnesses are generally located at the top back. Front or Back Clip No-Pull Harness: As discussed above, this no-pull harness can either have one or two leash attachment points. Front Range harnesses such as the Ruffwear has two lead attachment points for use with a training leash. These are the most common types of harnesses and are featured several times in this collection. The second is that this unpleasant sensation can actually increase the pulling behaviour as they try to escape the pain. Head Collars: We have an entire article on the pros and cons of head collars as well as some general recommendations. Though not technically classed as a harness, the head collar can be used solely or in conjunction with a harness to offer better control of your dog. They can be used for both walking and guiding the canine as well as stopping sudden lunging or jumping. Although often associated as stylish or fashionable rather than practical — these are many excellent leather harnesses that do both. Leather has the advantage of being strong but you should also look out for padding on the inside to avoid chafing as well as a good design to offer all the practical aspects of a no-pull harness. Support and Rehabilitation Harnesses: We do not cover them in this article but are looking to include a feature on them shortly. Essentially these are designed for disabled, senior or dogs suffering from mobility issues and back problems. Measuring your English Bulldog for a Dog Harness It is important to measure your English Bulldog correctly when fitting a harness for a snug fit which is neither too tight or they could escape from. If you find yourself between two sizes of harness e. You can check out our handy guide to measuring your dog for a harness here — however, here are a few tips. Measure the chest: Using a tape measurer you will need to measure the widest part of the chest. Add two inches: to allow for some flexibility and potential future weight gain. Bulldog Harnesses: Summary Table We compiled the top seven harnesses for this collection including review summaries. Full coverage below this table.

Free Extra Month of BarkBox! Valid on 6 and 12 month plans While you do receive less products with BarkBox, you will also pay a lower monthly cost compared to PupBox. Price of PupBox vs BarkBox If price is important to you, let me discuss the monthly price and shipping cost for each service. Shipping is free anywhere in the U. After November 15, , PupBox is stopping all shipments to Canada due to logistical issues. Shipping is free for BarkBox customers in the contiguous 48 states. According to their customer service, they can also ship to any U. When do their cartons arrive? When comparing BarkBox vs PupBox, you may want to know when your boxes will actually arrive. Here is that information: PupBox shipping timeframes For PupBox, your first box ships out within one week after they process your payment. You can then expect it to arrive within business days after they send you the tracking notification. BarkBox shipping timeframes For BarkBox, for new customers in the 48 contiguous states, your box normally ships within business days from your order date, and then another business days to arrive. Virgin Islands. For future boxes, they ship out within the first two weeks of the month, and then get delivered within the same time periods as described above depending where you live. Cancellation Policies With both subscription services, they have auto-renewal set up for their subscription plans, so you will need to cancel before the end of the term. You can cancel auto-renewal online through their websites. I personally did this for BarkBox within a few days of signing up. I see the most complaints from customers on this issue. Additional Differences Contacting customer service PupBox does not currently have a phone number to call, so you must contact their customer service by email. I even chatted with a rep on their site over the weekend. Which canine subscription carton is more popular? BarkBox is the leader in this space and delivers boxes to more than 1 million dogs each month. This usually includes replacing the item with something else. They also do not appear to offer returns unless there are extenuating circumstances. BarkBox chicken treats with no wheat, soy, corn, or other fillers. BarkBox states that they can accommodate almost all allergy and diet needs. When signing up, you can specify whether to exclude treats with chicken, turkey, or beef. You can contact customer service afterwards for them to accommodate additional allergies. Their treats do not contain corn, wheat or soy. PupBox includes common food allergies to exclude when filling out your profile, which includes chicken, beef or pork. I cannot find any information on donations by PupBox, but will email their customer service to confirm. PetCo currently owns PupBox when they purchased the company back in November of .Barkbox has recently entered into a merger agreement with Northern Star Acquisition Corp. Comparison Chart I created the following infographic comparing important differences mentioned above I will be updating this to reflect certain recent changes : Conclusion For PupBox vs BarkBox, I would recommend BarkBox for the time being. PupBox does offer training material, which somewhat differentiates them from BarkBox. As a result, PupBox could save you time with learning how to train your puppy. Additionally, PupBox is now beginning to offer more customized boxes for dogs other than puppies. However, with the complaints I have read, I only feel comfortable recommending BarkBox at this time. PupBox vs. BarkBox: Which Is Better? How They Work? PupBox and BarkBox work in similar ways but with some notable differences. PupBox PupBox is a dog subscription box service that sends a box full of toys, treats, training information, and accessories to your home every month. The owners and a dog received treats and toys from a subscription box company! They also have subscription boxes for adolescent and adult dogs. Plus, in , they added a senior dog box to their list of options. To sign up for PupBox, you must first make a profile for your dog. Your PupBox will get shipped within five to seven business days after you place your order. BarkBox BarkBox is a dog subscription box service that sends a box containing toys, treats, and chews for your pup to enjoy monthly. An opened box of different stuff for dogs. Each month comes with a selection of products that follow a fun theme. The themes keep every month entertaining and surprising. You can look at previous theme boxes on the BarkBox website to get an idea of what you can expect. You can also choose to subscribe to the Super Chewers plan if you have a dog who loves to destroy toys. This box will have more durable toys than the standard box, but it costs a little extra. To subscribe to BarkBox , you need to create a profile. Once everything is complete, BarkBox will send your box within the first two weeks of the month. PupBox In every PupBox, you will receive five to seven products customized for your pup. The selection will contain the following products: Treats: Soft and meaty treats for training or a delicious snack between mealtimes. Chews: All-natural chewy sticks to keep your dog entertained and satisfied. Toys: Based on the age of your pup, these could include teething toys, plush toys , rope toys, interactive toys, or toys for tough chewers. Accessories: Grooming tools, training essentials, cleaning supplies, and collars and leashes are just a few of the accessories you may receive. Check out the prices below. A Poodle plays inside a box. Discounts PupBox and BarkBox offer occasional discounts online or via email if you subscribe to the mailing list. You can also find discount codes online. We have answers! A black dog sits beside an opened box. Are PupBox and BarkBox the same company? While the two sound quite similar, PupBox and BarkBox are different companies. The main difference between the two is that PupBox provides age-specific products, while BarkBox does not. Are dog subscription boxes worth it? Whether a dog subscription box is worth it depends on your dog and your lifestyle. However, you can save money by shopping for the products yourself if you have the time. Can you cancel your subscription anytime? Yes—for both PupBox and BarkBox. Canceling your subscription can be done on both websites under your account tab. BarkBox : Which Is Better? PupBox and BarkBox are both excellent dog subscription box services. Deciding which is better depends on what you want from a subscription box service. If you recently adopted a puppy , then the clear winner is PupBox. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Design: Liked the theme and the toys were definitely durable. Health: Treats were made in the U. I mean, I love celebrating Halloween early as much as the next person, but in March? Mostly I was just weirded out by feeling like I'd been sent a Halloween box in March? Happy early Halloween, y'all! But in addition to that, everything in the box felt extremely high quality. Design: Both dog toys here felt very high-end and durable. Neither one was hideous, and I liked that there was a subtle St. I also loved that the rope toy is created through Fundacion Mitz which gives jobs to women in vulnerable communities. Health: I appreciated that the Loving Pets treats were made in the U. Customer Experience: I canceled my subscription via email, and it was easy. The customer service representative was pleasant and I liked that I got an email warning me that my subscription was renewing before I was out of the cancellation window. Summary: I was skeptical of this box going in because subscribing on the Greater Good site felt a little jenky, but I was actually really wow-ed by the quality of the items in the box and the value. I loved the products, and loved even more knowing that my purchase was feeding shelter animals. And our pick for the best Dog subscription box is… Okay, I lied. I love that it gives back, and everything in it felt really high-quality and thoughtfully-curated. I loved seeing a Fair Trade toy in the box, too. It felt good to buy an indulgent treat for our pups that also helped pups in need. Thanks for reading! Pin It The Dapple sometimes receives a small affiliate income when you shop using links featured on our site. Never Miss a Pupdate Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates. Email Address. PupBox does not offer returns or exchanges but will hear complaints on a case-by-case basis. What the Users Say Not only did we do our research on each of these companies, but we also dove headfirst into the reviews of other dogs owners to see what they had to say about the two. After all, how else do we learn other than from one another? If you have a dog with a powerful bite force or a strong will to chew, try Super Chewer to avoid the quick destruction of toys in regular BarkBox and PupBox. If you are a brand new puppy owner, Pupbox is ideal, especially if you enjoy reading training material as opposed to in-person or video instruction. Reviewers did complain that BarkBox was much more difficult to cancel than expected. They still received charges and deliveries after requesting cancellation. This is something to keep in mind so that you double-check and ensure your cancellation goes through after the initial request. If you want versatility and more exciting subscription deliveries, BarkBox came in the lead in terms of customer reviews. Their fun themes keep people and their pooches entertained. Some did wish BarkBox included the occasional accessory though, like PupBox. PupBox and BarkBox both get high ratings in terms of quality products. Dog owners with experience with both subscriptions do give credit where credit is due. These companies do their best to give your doggies the best quality products. Conclusion If you are a new puppy owner and would like a monthly subscription that will not only provide you age-appropriate toys, treats, and chews but also add in some training inserts full of guidance from professionals, PupBox is a great choice. You can expect 5 to7 items in total and while it does come at a slightly higher monthly cost but contrary to popular belief, does have boxes for all life stages. BarkBox offers exciting monthly themes and will customize the box to your dog specifically. They include two toys, two bags of treats, and one chew in each delivery and come at a slightly lower monthly cost. You do have the option to add more products if needed. BarkBox also offers boxes for powerful chewers, those needing dental hygiene products, and even meal plan subscriptions and offers a satisfaction guarantee. The winner here is up to personal preference and need. Lindsey Lawson Author I am a wife, mother, nature enthusiast, animal lover, and business major. I was born and raised in Ohio but now live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We share our home with a German Shepherd, several snakes, tarantulas, and a couple rescue cats. I am also a huge advocate for bully breeds. I feel most at home in the forest either on horseback or in hiking boots.Read more Advertisement. Updated: October 19th, This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here. Can I make a confession? So, when I was asked to give a monthly dog subscription box a try, I was a little bit leery but eager to know what comes in a BarkBox. Talk about giving up control! Would they pick something my dogs liked? Would they give them high-quality products? Hold on a second. In the spirit of personal growth, I decided to delegate the pet purchases I normally handled myself, and let someone else give it a try. What Does BarkBox Promise? The BarkBox website tells us that each box will contain treats, toys, chews, and occasionally hygiene products that follow a theme of some kind. Visit Site They also promise that all of their dog treats will be made from high-quality ingredients free from soy, wheat, or corn. They even offer allergy-friendly options if your dog is allergic to beef, chicken, or turkey. If you need further assurance of what the contents will cover, the company has a Puppy Feed where past recipients of these mystery boxes show off their contents. If you want to check out their toys, BarkBox has an online store for people who want to reorder the same toy they received in a shipment. Upon ordering, I was asked if my dog was small 0 to 20 pounds , medium 20 to 50 pounds , or large over 50 pounds. None of our pups are too hard on their toys, but I was also given the option to upgrade to a free Heavy Chewer subscription for more durable toys. They also guarantee that if your dog chews through their Super Chewer toys, they replace them for free. I decided to stick with the regular subscription option. It could only get better from there, right? What Comes In A Barbox? I ordered their basic one-month box for a large dog. I must admit, it was kind of exciting getting that box on my doorstep, not knowing what to expect. My dogs smelled the treats in the box right away and were sniffing the cardboard like they could inhale the contents through the packaging. Upon opening it, I was greeted with a New York-themed box of doggy goodies. BarkBox is based out of New York, so this hometown homage was very appropriate. My dogs especially enjoyed the squeaker inside. The ball had some type of bumpy material under the cloth that made it very easy for the bigger dogs to carry. I love a toy where no pup feels left out! It had a durable fabric that covered a harder inner material. The pretzel provided plenty of interactive fun for both of us, and it made me hungry for carbs! This deer chew also had no preservatives, coloring, or artificial flavors. And of course, the deer meat was a big hit with the canine crew! BarkBox makes sure all of their treats follow this principle, and that meant all of our dogs could enjoy them! Again, they contained nothing artificial and had no grains or byproducts. The only ingredients on the list were Icelandic oven-baked cod skin and golden redfish skin. All of these goodies came wrapped in cute packaging with fun cards explaining the contents and theme to finish out the BarkBox experience. While the classic BarkBox contains two toys, two treats, and one chew, no two boxes are the same. The only thing I can tell you for sure is that each monthly theme is designed to be immensely fun and provide endless adventures for our canine friends. Themes will usually depend on a season or a holiday in the following month. As mentioned earlier, the BarkBox comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. They all cost the same, and you can always go back and update the size for future deliveries. BarkBox also suggests sizing up if your pooch is a heavy chewer or has naturally large jaws. A Golden Dox may be perfectly content with a medium BarkBox, but if you own a pittie or a Staffy, a large box is just the right thing for your dog. Like many other dog owners, my heart often breaks for the plights of shelter dogs. I like that BarkBox also feels the same way, and they put their money behind their concern. You can also recommend a local rescue representative reach out to benefit from this program by going to their Rescue and Shelter program. Knowing this company gives back to less fortunate dogs makes me feel so much better when we spoil our own. I know a portion of that money is helping another pup find a forever home. Each monthly BarkBox is full of new surprises for your dog and contains an innovative plush, squeaky, or stuffed toy. All plush toys are different and specially designed for chewing, pulling, tossing, and other strange things dogs do to have fun. The Super Chewer BarkBox comes with rubberized toys that are made to withstand some rough handling and heavy chewing. Yes, BarkBox is absolutely worth the money, regardless of what subscription plan you decide on. If you were to buy all individual toys, treats, and chews separately, you would spend a lot more money than if you decided to purchase only a one-month subscription. However, in order to receive just one BarkBox, you will need to pick a one-month subscription and patiently wait for the box to get delivered to your doorstep. BarkBox toys are designed in a way that makes them suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages, including puppies. In order to skip a month or change your BarkBox subscription to every other month, you will need to contact their Happy Team. The good news is that BarkBox has friendly and very responsive customer service. I took a chance and, without knowing what comes in a BarkBox, I got one. This turned out to be, hands down, the best blind buy ever! Every toy was high quality, fun, and interactive. The treats and chews were made from healthy, whole ingredients without added preservatives, fillers, grains, or artificial flavors. Maybe this experience will help me become a bit more open to the concept. This pet parent and her pup pack are sold! You May Also Like.

Training your French Bulldog 4 training tips to make your stubborn French Bulldog obedient French Bulldogs display strong unwillingness for training, making exercise stressful and frustrating for the them and the human at times. While they are playful and gentle, their stubbornness is on another level compared to other dog breeds and can be challenging to train at times. There are ways of getting your Frenchie to learn to obey your commands. Here are simple strategies to train your adorable Bulldog. Breeders usually re-home their Frenchie Bulldog as early as 8 weeks old. Immediately after bringing your French Bulldog home start with potty training your puppy. Designate a special potty area and stick to it. Take your puppy every 2 hours as Frenchie puppies cant hold their needs for longer than that when they are that young. You want the dog to start learning potty manners as early as possible to prevent future problems. If you allow your Frenchie to do their needs elsewhere it will complicate matters for you later. Frenchies are extremely intelligent and will resort to their own way of doing things if not trained otherwise. Your French Bulldog needs positive Reinforcements through Verbal and Physical Rewards French Bulldogs are highly emotional and can become sad when scolded. These dogs were bred to please, so any negative feedback hits them hard. Whenever the dog does the right thing without your guidance, reward your Frenchie bountifully. Stay positive always to build a trustworthy and positive relationship. Socialize your Frenchie with other dogs You want your pup to become fully integrated with your family as quickly as possible. Start integrating the dog into your household from the day of arrival. Frenchies love noise and activity, so let them play around and explore. On the same token it is crucial that your dog socialize with other dogs early on. You want your Frenchie to be able to play and be around dogs without aggression or issues that might come later in adulthood if not properly socialized. Use the proper Frenchie training tools Frenchies are brachycephalic dogs and this predisposes them to respiratory disorders. We would never recommend a training collar for this reason. Walking a brachy breed with a collar can disrupt airflow and even make the dogs eyes pop out of their socket or potentially cause other trachea injuries. According to the Humane Society of the US it is the safest to use a harness to restrain your Frenchie. A harness allows the dog to breath freely with little or no obstructions. Our Health Harness was designed for brachycephalic dogs. It makes for a great training tool without the dangers found in common pet accessories. The Health Harness is designed with dual D rings and double zink alloy buckles to provide a safe, no-choke, no-pull walk. The front D ring makes it ideal for training dogs that like to pull, along with those that have aggression and dominance issues. If you want your pooch to have a comfortable life, a quality Frenchie harness is an excellent investment. Train your dog how to walk besides you early on to avoid frustration in the future. Even if your dog is full grown our specialty designed Health Harness can make all the difference in the world. Frenchies are one of the most popular dog breeds on the planet. Miniature yet with giant characters, these adorable pooches are playful, intelligent, yet extremely stubborn. We believe that if you follow these 4 simple tips of training your Frenchie you can lead a healthy and positive relationship with your pooch. How to deal with an aggressive and dominant Frenchie? Tips and advice We received the following email asking for our advice in regards to an aggressive and dominant French Bulldog We adopted our Frenchie ex-breeder Mom almost 5 years ago. For example: Before Dixie, our two females rarely fought. And my pug would at least occasionally let me hold her. Now she tries to jump down immediately or else my bully will attempt to jump up on whoever holds her and attack her. Dixie also often growls when being pet and loved on, whereas any other dog would eat up the attention. And she seems to hate feet. Just wondered if you had any tips or suggestions at all. When we picked Dixie up from rescue she was sweet and timid, compliant and cuddly. Hi Lorrie: From reading your question there are a few key points you already know and are pointing out in your question which I would like to re-affirm: Dixie wants to be the alpha and the boss, wants to control the environment and the situation. Whoever is not in line with how she wants them to behave she will show aggression. First and foremost I would like you to ensure there is nothing medically or physically wrong with Dixie that will make her hostile or change her in anyways. The following tips will be given on the assumption that there is nothing wrong medically and her behavior changed over time due to her taking a certain role in the household that she feels is lacking. It is important to go back to the beginning and ask in what way you introduced her to the pack. It seems like the introduction was immediate and without much adjustment time. You say that she was originally going to be your daughter's dog and that didn't work out. This fact alone gives me an insight into the situation. Since things didn't work out the way they were planned I'm sure you were a bit puzzled and that rubbed off on Dixie. It seems that when she was added to the rest of the dogs in your household that created imbalance. From Dixie point of view she has taken the role of the mom and leader in the household and whoever is out of line she "disciplines" them by putting them in their place. It also seems like you are scared of her reaction and avoid doing certain things that will upset Dixie which is not helping the problem. We have a few recommendations to help this situation and they will all start and end with the one concept of you becoming the alpha and leader of the pack. When leaving your home with a hostile Frenchie You need to be the first leaving out of the door not any of the other dogs. Open the door slightly just for you to be able to stand in the opening, exercise standing there in front of your dogs while your dogs are still in the house for 1 minute increase by 1 minute daily until your dogs understand and wait patiently for 3 minutes without trying to trip you or escape first. This exercise will be hard to do at first but your dogs will soon learn you are the boss. In time you will be able to open the door wider and wider without them trying to be out of the door first. Train your Frenchie here! You should start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Puppy brains are a lot bigger than we think — they soak up so much good information despite their young age. French Bulldogs can be a rather independent breed of dog. In fact, we sometimes might feel like we need them more than they need us! What age can I start to train my French Bulldog puppy? You can start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Build positive training experiences with Zigzag! We can start you off with a personalised training programme straight away in the Zigzag puppy training app , in fact, you can even use it before you bring your Frenchie puppy home as we have a pre-puppy section. Before bringing your French Bulldog puppy home, you can also get in touch with our Zigzag puppy experts with any of the many questions you may have! While blingy collars and outfits might be top of the list, there are some more sensible things you need to get your French Bulldog puppy that will help with your training. Here are my top picks for getting prepared for training your Frenchie. My favourite all-rounder is the Rapid Rewards treat pouch , it comes in many colours and looks stylish when on. The Mikki treat pouch is also good and a bit cheaper. You can go to town and choose pretty colours and designs for Frenchies! A lead — Around 2m is a good length for a lead. A training lead is a good idea as you can change the lengths of them to suit. A comfortable mat or a piece of non-slip vet bed. Treats The more smelly, the better. Have a look at the best puppy treats here. Chews and chew toys — lots of them! Our faves for Frenchies are West Paw Toppl and hollow buffalo horns for stuffing food into, and cow ears and pizzles for edible chews. Two identical toys : Excellent for swaps — your French Bulldog puppy will be super playful and enjoy the retrieving games in the Zigzag app. Originally, French Bulldogs were bred from English Bulldogs, who had a shady past as bull-baiting dogs. People enjoyed their cheerful nature and kept them as companion dogs after these awful blood sports were prohibited. When the need for these workers declined in England, their skills were still required in France, so the workers relocated, bringing their dogs with them. Relocate your training to Zigzag! When they arrived in France, they were adored by shopkeepers, butchers, and, most infamously, Les Belles de Nuit — the ladies of the night! What does this have to do with how I train my French Bulldog? Knowing the characteristics of the breed will help you better train your Frenchie puppy and understand why they behave the way they do. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Frenchies are incredibly loving and enjoy being in the spotlight. They can have a lot of energy possibly even more than a lot of energy and enjoy an active home life. Lack of stimulation WILL foster self-employment; provide them with items to rip up and pull apart to keep them out of trouble. By the way, if you leave them to it, they WILL go into your recycling and have a field day. Frenchies often think they are big dogs, thus they often do well playing with dogs larger than them. They look dashing in them too! December 6, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? Quickly rising in the popularity ranks to spot number two, the French bulldog or more commonly known for their nickname Frenchie is a bundle of cute, silliness, and affection! This compact, low-activity, lap companion is a perfect fit for puppy parents that like a relaxed lifestyle! How do you know if the French Bulldog is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on French Bulldogs! When it comes to French Bulldogs, not where they originally come from! These pups actually made their way over to France from England and were actually Toy Bulldogs. During the mid s, lacemakers from Nottingham, England traveled to Paris bringing along their toy bulldogs and cross-breeding them with bull-baiting bulldogs to gain those tall erect bat ears Frenchies have today! Soon, their popularity in France spread as more Parisian women introduced these pups a staple into city, cafe-culture. What are French Bulldog Breed Characteristics? French Bulldogs have short snouts, round adorable bodies and short legs, square-shaped faces but the most undeniably French Bulldog quality.Although these characteristics breed standard, French Bulldogs come in a variety of colorings including white, cream, tan, grey, black, brown, blue, multi-color, fawn, brindle, merle, lilac, and combinations of each of these! What are French Bulldog Personalities like? These pups have silly personalities, love to play, and can settle right up next to your lap. Unlike the common yappy small dog stereotype, Frenchies are quite affectionate and even-tempered. They love their human families, seek companionship, and enjoy playing with their people. If you were looking for a pup that was thrill-seeking and had a protective quality to their nature, French Bulldogs are far more content with a walk, quick game of tug-of-way or fetch, and would probably rather play with new people and dogs than be protective. While they are relatively easy-going, they can have a bit of a stubborn streak so be prepared with obedience training and to coax your Frenchie with some treats! Much like their early days, French Bulldogs are a great choice for puppy parents living in urban, city environments like apartment buildings. Frenchies, while they love to play, are what is known as a brachycephalic breed. High activity can cause them to overheat and they will have difficulty panting to cool off. While the idea of letting your French Bulldog puppy cool off in water seems right, no swimming for these pups. If you live somewhere with a pool or close to a lake, be mindful of your Frenchie, and even keep a protective float or vest on them! All in all, a home that provides space in a room to play, or walks around the neighborhood or in a park are just what Frenchies need to burn off their energy and keep entertained! How to Care for Your French Bulldog! French Bulldogs, like many short-snouted dogs, can suffer from respiratory issues such as wheezing, snoring, and over-heating in warmer temperatures. While their short coats are generally low-maintenance, French Bulldogs can suffer from eye infections and infections in the folds of their skin. Keeping their eyes clean, regular brushing with a rubber glove, and making sure their skin is completely dry after bathing can significantly help prevent these issues! When you first bring home your new French Bulldog puppy, set up an initial visit with your veterinarian to discuss French Bulldog breed nutritional needs, preventive care, and schedule their vaccinations! Thanks to their adorable looks, French Bulldogs receive a lot of affection from their humans. Basic Obedience and Tricks French Bulldogs are fun and easy-to-train breed! However, some Frenchie parents may find bouts of stubbornness such as refusing to take another step on a walk or not coming when called! If you start to experience this with your Frenchie puppy, try to keep them on a leash while under supervision at home to have them follow you and start to establish leadership. Since these pups love a good playtime session, teaching them some fun tricks is a great way to keep them engaged while still working on listening and following your lead! Potty Train Right Away With the right consistency and patience, all puppies can be potty trained! Some French Bulldog puppies may take a bit longer to master pottying in a specific spot so start from the very first day your puppy comes home! Pick a designated spot, start bringing your puppy there every time they have to go potty, and supervise them at home, or crate them at night to prevent accidents! As companion dogs, French Bulldogs can develop separation anxiety so establishing crate times during the day and at night will help your puppy start to feel comfortable being alone and boost their level of confidence. Set times for feeding, play, puppy training, and sleep will provide your puppy with routine and structure, encouraging good behaviors and fewer chances of your puppy developing bad habits. A daily schedule also makes certain things such as potty times far more predictable for you and helps to speed up the potty training process. Lastly, a set routine creates a well-adjusted puppy that will grow up confident, healthy, and happy! One of the best things about a daily puppy schedule is that you can establish one that aligns with your own! Teach them "Drop-It! One of the fastest and most fun! Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more!

Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. A thick-bellied and thick-legged cub of a Shepherd color with a long tail and dense fur can only be finally classified as purebred when the ears of a German Shepherd puppy stand up. The ears of a true German Shepherd are, according to the standard, erect, of the medium size, set high, with the ends directed forward and up, and not adjacent to the skull on both sides, even when a Shepherd dog is in motion or presses its ears or lowers them in a calm position. When German Shepherd ears stand up when excited, the distance between their highest points tips should visually equal the width of the auricle. Since the range of frequencies heard by a dog is much higher than that of a human, a German Shepherd determines the source of the sound and its direction and location instantly and accurately due to such an auricle at a distance of m depending on the pitch of the sound. Moreover, a Shepherd can hear the peals of thunder or the sound of a working chainsaw at a distance of km. The lowest sound for a human is 16 Hz, while the highest one is 20 thousand Hz. The upper limit of frequency fluctuations perceived by a GS dog as a sound is thousand Hz. Clear hearing is especially important for a German Shepherd as for a dog with high service qualities and no less high requirements for its work. Sensitive ears allow not only for relying on a Shepherd dog as an excellent guard but also for guiding it at great distances, giving commands at frequencies that are not perceived by the human ear or in an undertone. Their small ears are also imperfect — they are rather soft due to the underdeveloped cartilage that makes up the auricle. That is why there are separate German Shepherd puppy ears stages when they start standing up. The cartilaginous plate is covered on both sides with a layer of thin connective tissue that provides the main cartilage with growth and nutrition and is called the perichondrium. The perichondrium, on the contrary, is dotted with mini-hematopoietic capillaries and blood vessels. Through them, the cartilage receives necessary substances for its growth and compaction with the help of conventional diffusion literally, penetration by contact. In the same way, the ear cartilage of a GS dog is built on, and the perichondrium has semi-stem cells which, like bricks, are built into the cartilage tissue. Cartilage cells, in turn, produce collagen and elastin. This is due to the active work of all parts of the auricle cartilage and perichondrium. Up to 4 months, cartilage tissues are especially active, but by the fifth month, the growth of elastic layers and the embedding of stem cells decreases. Having reached a certain density, ear growth slows down, and in a short time, it almost diminishes. The metabolism in the auricle becomes so low that visually the ear seems to no longer grow. However, limited living processes in it continue throughout life. Otherwise, it would be impossible to restore the tissues of the German Shepherd puppy ears in case of damage. To do this, you need to feed the puppy a balanced diet with enough calcium and phosphorus. Excess calcium and phosphorus can adversely affect the formation of the ear cartilage and the development of the musculoskeletal system of a German Shepherd. We must not forget about the composition of the blood because it is the main food for the growth and strengthening of the cartilage plate due to the diffuse contact with it via the perichondrium. Not only nutrition but also the obligatory physical activity of a German Shepherd puppy, both at home and on walks , help improve the blood supply to the perichondrium. Under such keeping conditions, the ears of the Shepherd stand up on time and additional actions on the part of an owner are not required. The optimal age when the ears should stand up is 5 months. Do not be afraid if the ears are 1. This sometimes happens. You need to worry if the puppy is already 8 months old, and the ears still do not rise. If at the age of 12 months, the ears are still not on top, the question of a purebred puppy will emerge. Teeth and Ears It often happens that at 2- 3 months the ears of a Shepherd stood up, and at 4 they fell one or two at once This is a normal process associated with the change of teeth, when the body mobilizes all the microelements to build a strong dental system, pulling phosphorus and calcium front he cartilage in this direction. At the same time, the drooping ears should stand up. Hurry up! After a year, hopes to put up ears in a German Shepherd are melting exponentially. There may be, for example, a birthing crease, subluxation, or hematoma as a result of injury to the ear canal. Has your dog ever had ear infections or other ear problems? They can involve inflammation of the middle ear, otodectosis, or a forest tick attack. Have you noticed any allergic reactions in your pet? It may be allergic to dairy products or antibiotics. If antibiotics or immunomodulators were used, what did your dog get sick with, and how often? Infectious diseases significantly inhibit the development of a Shepherd dog and slow down growth and physiological formation, including cartilage tissues. The latter is in charge of whether the ears of a GS puppy will stand up or it will remain floppy-eared. In what conditions is the young Shepherd kept? When living in an aviary, a dog must have a warmed booth in winter to avoid hypothermia of the ears, leading to spasms of small vessels of the perichondrium and a dense canopy from the sun in summer — overheating also leads to spasms. Do you walk and talk enough to your dog? Each age demands its own supplements developed for puppies, and they are also divided by the size of the dogs: small, medium, and large dogs. The German Shepherd is a large breed! This is one of the most common problems in pedigree dogs, including German Shepherds. Diseases associated with the imbalance of hormones lead to problems with the immune system and prevent the body from proper formations of all organs and their functions. Overfeeding a German Shepherd as well as underfeeding leads to a deficiency of micro-and macroelements, which highly contributes to the timely formation of cartilage tissues by the age when the Shepherd should raise its ears. Have there been any stressful situations? Cortisol, a stress hormone, activates a defense mechanism that blocks the production of new cells including semi-stem cells in cartilage tissues , reduces blood flow, and forms a negative calcium balance in the body of a Shepherd dog. Very often, this problem is transmitted at the genetic level, and your German Shepherd floppy ears can be a result of it. When was the last vaccination administered? After vaccination, the body of a GS dog begins the active formation of immunity. The process requires the consumption of microelements and vitamins for biochemical reactions, so their deficiency is formed, similar to the condition after an illness. How often do you pet your puppy on the head? At your touch, the Shepherd dog instinctively lays its ears back, getting used to keeping them folded lengthwise from the base to the top. The result will be an acquired crease or scar along with the entire ear that keeps the German Shepherd ears down, and this will require cartilage adjustment. If the doctor sees it necessary, your pet will have to take a blood test, undergo an ultrasound, and possibly take some x-rays. Treatment Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will prescribe medicines most often — flavonoids, vitamins, glucosamine, calcitonin, thyroxine, iodine, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium , which normalize the composition of the blood and add the necessary building material to the body. It is important to carry out all the medicinal prescriptions under the supervision of a veterinarian. An overabundance of any element can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the pet and its ears in particular. In addition to medication, the doctor will most likely prescribe an ear massage at home. The massage procedure is not complicated — knead the ear from the base to the very tip between the thumb and forefinger, helping to improve blood supply, for about 5 minutes, times a day. Be careful with the place where the ear is attached to the head! This place does not need to be kneaded, only the auricle itself! Though, the most favorable result will not be long in coming — the ears of Shepherd dogs stand up in just a week or two. It is worse if the veterinarian makes a diagnosis of the atypical defect of the ear cartilage. What does it mean? Is it safe for the health of the Shepherd? And is it possible to put ears on a puppy with such a diagnosis? Atypical Cartilage and Ways to Eliminate Consequences Atypical cartilage is a defect in the development of the ear cartilage, resulting from a damaged structure of ear tissues, and their inability to support the ear in an upright position. This often occurs in young dogs after the ears have stood up, and then an ear or even two has fallen off. The same picture can be observed in old Shepherd dogs — the ear or both fall off and then rise again. The reason is the same — deformation of the ear cartilage due to long years of life at old age. However, with the old GSs, it will no longer be possible to return the ears to a stable standing position. Nevertheless, it is quite possible to correct the position of the young German Shepherd ears — they need to be glued, allowing the cartilage to recover. Gluing is nothing more than the necessary support for the intensive synthesis of elastin a connective protein in tissues and its uniform growth over the entire area of the ear cartilage. Properly glued ears do not allow creases or folds, never stretch scars, and make it possible to fill these creases with full-fledged elastin within 1. In this case, the puppy or young GS should be given maintenance vitamin supplements containing gelatin. Good results are also provided by a steep bone jelly or soaked food gelatin, 1 tbsp before every feeding. Adding bone meal and sea fish to the diet is a good solution, too! Taping Ears Correctly Since when is it worth starting the taping process? Until months of age, cartilage correction is unlikely to be needed. It is better to use the support in the form of massage and, possibly, a garter to put two ears together from months of age so that they take the correct position on the head. Feel the ear from its base to tip. If a crease or scar is found, you need to tape the ear urgently! You can watch some videos to see how to tape German Shepherd ears correctly. To correct one non-standing ear if the cartilage is even and of good density, without creases and scars, you can resort to a cardboard or plastic insert that maintains the ear in the desired position. Watch some videos to see how to do that. In any case, do not despair! David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Suffice to say that the dog has come a long way from its herding roots. Part of that perfect picture we have of these pups is the erect position of their ears. It gives them the qualities we associate with the breed, such as intelligence and confidence. Floppy ears strike us as a disconnect. These dogs have a dense coat that puts a lot of weight on their ears, relatively speaking. Also, large breeds like the German Shepherd mature more slowly than smaller dogs. It could just be a matter of time. That fact will come into play with the availability and price of the dog. It may have a disqualifying trait , such as floppy ears. This characteristic has a genetic component. Injury or Trauma Damaged the Cartilage Puppies sometimes play rough. They bite at each other, and sometimes the ears get the brunt of it. That often translates into slower healing times. Some manufactures produce tailor-made foods for specific breeds , such as the German Shepherd. That can go a long way to helping your dog recovering from an injury. It can interfere with air circulation in the ear canals, setting up the perfect storm for infections or mites. These conditions are horribly uncomfortable for your pup. Left untreated, it can cause a hematoma or swelling. This condition requires veterinary treatment. Several options exist, from aspirating or draining it to surgery. The best prevention is avoiding the conditions that caused the ear discomfort in the first place. All German Shepherds have floppy ears as puppies. The difference depends on when they start to change and stand up into their adult position. It can take several months. However, the number of adult dogs with floppy ears is about one in five. That may get its ears standing upright quicker. Taping the ears is usually part of the healing process when dogs get their ears cropped. The other concern is doing the procedure correctly. That could lead to ear trauma or a bowel obstruction if it swallows the materials. We suggest that you have your veterinarian do the job if you want to go this route. Final Thoughts The upright ears are an essential feature of the striking pose of the German Shepherd. Nature often has her plan for when that will happen in a puppy. Sometimes, it takes longer in pups with thicker fur or large ears. Healthy nutritional support will help the cartilage develop stronger and quicker. In the meantime, patience is the key. See also:. A common misconception that many people have is that German Shepherds have cropped ears that account for their erect posture. It often surprises some people to learn that the AKC standard calls for naturally erect, not cropped ears. GSD puppies are born with floppy ears set against the side of the head. As puppies mature, their ears usually start to stand up naturally. However, for various reasons, some dogs have ears that stay floppy. You can reasonably expect erect ears by around eight months old. This is because calcium that would generally nourish the ears is reallocated to the teeth during this time. You can expect the ears to become erect after the teething stops , around 20 weeks. After a puppy is no longer teething, they will start retaining enough cartilage in the ears to help hold them up. GSDs ears are heavier than they appear, and the cartilage must be sufficient to help keep that position. A sign of ears likely to stay erect are ears that become pointy once they start to stand. If your puppy reaches four or five months without any sign of the ears standing up, you might need to give them some help. When the ears are not erect by around seven or eight months, they will more than likely retain a floppy position. It is not something that is going to happen overnight. If you notice that your pup can prick their ears up or even just the tips of their ears by the time they are four to five months old, the chances are that the ears are developing normally and should become pointed without any intervention. The best thing to do is to keep your hands off their ears and avoid bending, rubbing, or folding their ears. If you notice that your German Shepherd is shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, it may be their attempt to relieve some kind of minor itchiness or irritation. However, if you notice that the head-shaking persists, then you should be concerned, especially as your pup grows. Any trauma to their ears before they reach four to five months of age can affect the cartilage and cause the ears to remain floppy rather than erect. Aural Haematoma: this is a blood blister found on the outer skin of the ear and can appear swollen. This condition is often the result of trauma due to vigorous ear shaking or a dog fight. However, if they are more serious, they will need to be removed surgically, and this can sometimes include the removal of part or all of the ear canal. If not, your pup will continue shaking their head and scratching, which can cause further injury and trauma to their ears. Skin Allergies: The head shaking and scratching may also be due to an allergy. For this, you may have to use antibiotics, antihistamines, or put your pup on a low allergy diet to treat their ears. For more information on avoiding dog ear infections and what to look for regarding causes and treatments, visit AKC. One of the more recognizable features of the German Shepherd dog breed is their large, erect ears and stoic expression. However, a lesser-known fact is that a German Shepherd puppy is born with floppy ears. So, how do you know what kind of ears your German Shepherd will have? The ears should also be pointed. If you got your German Shepherd from a reputable dog breeder, you could expect that their ears will stand erect after they are done teething. However, if you acquired your puppy from a puppy mill or there were less than desirable breeding practices or health problems, then your adult dog may end up with droopy ears. German Shepherd Ears Chart Although there is an official breed standard, in reality, German Shepherds have different types of ears, from ears that are set too high or too low to ears that are too large, asymmetrical, or too small. Some dogs even have ears pointing outwards or inwards or tilting one way. Overall, as you can see in our German Shepherd Ears Chart , there are at least 12 different types of German Shepherd ear shapes. Blood flow into the cartilage will likely increase when you do this, helping the ears keep their shape. Proper cleaning will help prevent infections that can be painful and costly to treat. Make sure you have a towel handy as you drop the ear cleaner into their ear. The towel can be used to clean up any mess as well as massage the ear cleaner solution in and around the ears. You can then use a cotton ball to remove any dirt or excess liquid. Chew Toys Sturdy chew toys will not only help keep your puppy busy but can also play a role in exercising the muscles supporting both the ears and jaws. Chewing helps with teething while also exercising their jaw and neck, and head muscles. Quality Diet The food that you feed your puppy should have high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Foods free from both wheat and corn are some of the best choices. You should also discuss supplementation with your veterinarian. Glucosamine, for example, helps to lubricate joints and supports healthy cartilage. For example, hearing certain noises that attract their attention or hearing their name can make them prick up their ears. Take advantage of this situation by praising them and providing a treat when they prick up their ears in response to this type of stimulus. They will associate pricking their ears up with getting a reward. Regularly Check for Parasites You also want to regularly check your dog out for parasites and ear mites. In addition, tapeworms and roundworms take away the essential nutrients your German Shepherd pup needs, which can ultimately cause poor health and other deficiencies. An ear mite infection can also cause your dog to itch, which causes them to shake their head excessively. Cartilage is extremely fragile and is prone to damage. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it can prove impossible for the ears to stand erect. However, keep in mind, this is invasive and does require your dog to go under anesthesia. They will also require pain medication following the surgery, and there will be a lengthy recovery time. Discuss Options with Your Vet You may want to consider having your vet make sure nothing is going on, like an ear infection. Some German Shepherds come from lines that carry genes that lead to floppier ears. Unfortunately, when genetics is the cause, there is little that owners can do aside from being more conscientious about ear health, which is a more significant concern in floppy-eared dogs. Many dogs from show lines, in particular, have larger ears that require more cartilage while the dog is growing to help support a more upright position. In many cases, these dogs will not have ears that stay upright. Broken Ear Cartilage German Shepherds can also end up with permanently floppy ears as a result of broken ear cartilage. This can happen in GSDs for a variety of reasons, including: Injuries. Well, there are a few different possible explanations. Causes can vary from age-related to genetic and medical issues. All puppies are born with soft, floppy ears. This is because the cartilage and muscles in their ears have not developed yet. Although some breeds, like Spaniels and Poodles, always have floppy ears, others, like most Shepherd breeds , almost always have pointy, pricked, upright ones. In such breeds, their ears should start to stand up between weeks of age as the bones and muscles in their bodies develop and strengthen. Are they both floppy — or is only one of them drooping whilst the other stands up normally? Teething Several young puppies experience floppy ears during teething. Teething is a period that all infant mammals go through, in which their baby or milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. It starts at around three weeks old and ends at months of age, although it can take longer. So, their bodies may draw calcium out of other areas, such as the ears, weakening their skeletal structure and making them flop. You may even notice that their ears look different every day during this period. They might be up-right one day, then floppy the next, or even change throughout the day depending on their mood. Their ears will return back to their original shape as soon as their hormones calm down. Although most German Shepherds have up-right ears, some can have floppy or semi-pricked ones. Judges of dog shows and competitions also often look for large ears in the breed. Poor nutrition during puppyhood As mentioned above, calcium is needed to develop and strengthen the cartilage in the ears in order for them to stand up. Vitamin D is also needed to keep bones healthy and strong. This is especially common in rescue dogs that come from puppy farms, homelessness, and neglectful backgrounds. Always buy from reputable breeders! Other symptoms of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies include muscle spasms and joint issues. If severe, nutrient deficiencies can be deadly. Both conditions require urgent veterinary attention, and treatments will likely include special diets and supplements. Similar to malnutrition, this is common in dogs that come from a background of neglect or homelessness. A build-up of wax, debris, or dirt can make the ears heavy and cause them to droop. Poor hygiene As we mentioned above, poor ear hygiene can lead to drooping of the ears. It can also lead to smelliness and infection. All dogs have self-cleaning mechanisms in their ears. However, allergies and hormone imbalances can cause disruptions to the mechanisms, meaning they require some extra care. Dogs can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, household cleaning products, and foods like wheat and dairy. Other symptoms of allergies can include skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and eyes, and stomach upsets. Each has different symptoms, but they often include drastic changes in energy, coat, thirst, appetite, and weight. German Shepherds are also particularly prone to experiencing hormonal disorders. Ear mites Another cause of ear drooping in German Shepherds is ear mites. Ear mites can be picked up outdoors, or from coming into contact with another animal with the condition. The inflammation from the infestation can cause droopiness in the affected ear. Other symptoms include excessive itchiness, and redness, bleeding, and swelling from the constant scratching. If left untreated, the infestation can cause disease, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Infection Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they can affect both the inner or outer ear. They are most often picked up after exposure to water, and the inflammation can cause the affected ear to droop. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, irritation, discharge, and excessive head shaking or scratching at the ear. Vets can treat ear infections with antibacterial or antifungal medications, but they need to be treated quickly before they spread or cause permanent damage. Trauma Physical trauma to the ears can also cause them to droop. The most common trauma that causes changes to the shape of the ears in German Shepherds are bites from fighting with other dogs. If your dog has a visible injury to their ear, you should take them to see their vet to check it over and dress any wounds to prevent infection. Make sure to brush your GSD regularly, also around the head and ears — these dogs shed heavily! You can get these over-the-counter at your vet, online, or in a pet store. You can also use a few drops of olive oil for wax build-up, but not too much. To administer, get a towel and ask your dog to lie down in a comfortable place in the home. Then, massage the mase of their ears for around 30 seconds to help it loosen any wax or dirt. Finally, allow your dog to shake their head and use the towel to catch what comes out. That said, if they have particularly problem ears, you should ask your vet and do it however often they suggest, which could be weekly or monthly. However, this is very controversial. It is not yet illegal in the USA, but it is also not something that we would recommend outside of medical necessity, as it can be unnecessarily stressful and painful for dogs. The method known as taping is done by placing something, usually tape, inside the ear to make it stand up straight and grow into that position permanently. It can be effective when done during puppyhood and usually takes weeks to work. As we mentioned above, nutritional deficiencies can cause the ears to flop. Puppies should eat nutritionally complete and balanced food that is enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and DHA for healthy bone and brain development, as well as high-quality protein sources like chicken and fish for strong muscles, and tasty, fiber-rich fruits and veggies. All puppies should have a handful of strong, hardy chew toys to avoid being destroyed during teething, but they can also help the ears to stand up. This is because the ears are connected to the jaw. So, strong jaw muscles means stronger ears, too! Finally, you should avoid playing too rough with your pup and interacting with boisterous dogs to prevent accidents and traumas, which, as we mentioned above, could damage or change the shape of their ears. Dogs communicate with us owners in many ways; they bark, they growl, and they use their bodies. Body language is a key part of understanding how your dog is feeling. Dogs use their entire bodies to communicate; including their tails, their eyes, and their ears! This often happens when a suspicious stranger or an unknown or unfriendly dog is approaching, or when there is a strange noise inside the home. When their ears go back or downwards, it could simply mean that they are listening, or it could indicate either excitement or anxiety. Excited dogs may whine, wag their tails very quickly, and run towards what they are excited about. This happens a lot when dogs are greeting a loved one. An anxious dog, on the other hand, may lower their head and cower their bodies away from what is causing their anxiety. If they are frightened, they may also tremble and whine, and if they are feeling angry or threatened, they may show their teeth and growl. This can happen when a dog is exposed to a phobia or an aggressive dog. It can be difficult to determine exactly how a mixed dog will look. Different pups from the same litter can also present with different traits from their siblings. That said, certain traits, like short hair, for example, are genetically dominant and therefore will be passed on over others, like long hair, which is genetically recessive. Dominant traits are those that require only one copy of a specific gene for the trait to be passed down to a pup. Recessive traits, on the other hand, need two copies; one from each parent. So, which is dominant; pricked or floppy ears? The answer is — floppy ears! Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears in dogs. That said, different ear shapes in dogs does tend to reflect their original working purpose. For example, the Spaniel, a gun dog, has floppy ears that gather and hold scent particles. This helped them track down what they were looking for much faster back in the day. German Shepherds, on the other hand, along with other wolf-like breeds, such as the Siberian Husky , have pricked, pointed ears. This is thought to aid their hearing during guard work, keep their body temperature under control during strenuous hunts, and give them an alert look to ward off predators. This may be why people are statistically more likely to perceive dogs with pricked ears as more threatening, according to research conducted by James Madison University, USA, in .This is not necessarily true, however, as any dog lover will know. It is likely down to something old and instinctual, as they also discovered that people perceived coat colors differently, too. The type of ears that a dog has can affect their hearing. Whether a dog has pricked ears or floppy ears, they have 18 different muscles that control them to funnel sounds from all different directions. A healthy-hearing dog of any kind can still hear from 40 to 60, hertz, which is more than double what human ears can hear! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. One would wonder - why is there such a huge range in price? What is the difference? For someone that is not experienced with the breed all the fancy abbreviations are not making much sense and often a pedigree is just a list of names. How to tell if the pedigree is breed-worthy? We often think that the higher the price, the higher the quality - but is it always true? Nobody wants to pay more if the same quality is available for less, but how to tell the difference? We will try our best to answer these and many other questions on this page and hopefully, will explain the GSD pricing and what impacts it, what to look for and if you do get what you pay for. How much should a German Shepherd cost? Let us be honest - when it comes to quality German Shepherd Dogs, there is no "cheap". We have great connections with breeders in USA, we stay in touch and monitor the market. We know what is offered for sale and what pricing policy different kennels are following. To this day we have yet to see a well-bred quality German Shepherd Dog puppy for sale at less than two thousand US dollars. There is a lot of time and funds invested into quality breeding stock dogs, training, health testing, food and care of the dogs. Responsible Breeders and enthusiasts are barely breaking even after selling their pups. Opposed to them are many "back-yard breeders" or pet owners that have no knowledge of the breed and the breeding requirements. They see an opportunity to make quick money and decide to breed their pet dogs in most times not even mature to a healthy breeding age and far off the breed conformation to produce " pet quality" puppies. When a buyer comes to a reputable breeder and gets set off by a high price, they seek someone with cheaper version. Who needs those fancy show titles and lengthy pedigree if all I want is just a pet? We firmly believe that back-yard-breeders are the biggest scam of the GSD breeding. In most cases, these dogs even come with an AKC registration, but this does not add quality to the puppy. Registration is just that - a registration and not a sign of quality. Every registration will come with a pedigree and quality pedigree does add quality, but nor a registration itself. We have seen pedigrees where none of the dogs on the entire pedigree hold any working or show titles. We have seen pedigrees where zero dogs in five generations have passed genetic health testing. So, when a person is trying to look for a low-cost German Shepherd Dog and goes to a BYB, they are most likely purchasing a mixed breed dog with a poor conformation and faulty temperament. In lines where dogs were not tested for generations is a high possibility of genetic health problems. Meanwhile, this "pet breeder" does not even see or understand the difference: we sometimes see advertisement of puppies for sale and can not believe our eyes. Everything on the ad screams: "Not a German Shepherd", but most people don't see it.Does this seems like a great deal to you? No to us! Not every litter is the same and our pricing reflects that accordingly. Show and Working homes that seek full AKC Registration need to contact us for pricing for puppies sold with full AKC - that will differ on a litter and situation. We accept PayPal transfers, Cash or Checks and may offer flexible payment plan options to help families that desire to have a dog, but can not afford to pay the full price up front. If dogs are sold in Wisconsin, we also charge sales tax in the amount 5. When we purchased our dogs, we paid at least double of what we are asking for the puppies. Many puppy buyers want to have a proof that their dog is a purebred. A pedigree of a dog is a first important point to consider when choosing a new puppy. But pedigree means very little when a person does not know how to read it or does not understand what to look for in a pedigree. It is essential that the buyer learns how to read a pedigree OR that a breeder explains a pedigree to a buyer. Not every pedigree is the same and some pedigrees mean very little, if nothing and are just bunch of names. Literally — just a bunch of names with absolutely no value. The names are just that — what the owner have named their dog and are not a real title. We have also made up this name for this article, but you get the idea, right? A puppy with a quality pedigree will have several generations of health tested, shown and titled dogs. Yes, not every breeder posts images of their dogs online, but there would be show mentions, trial mentions or pages created by other users on specialized dog-related websites, such as pedigreedatabase user created , workingdog or similar. How many VA dogs are on a pedigree and how far on a pedigree are they? Remember, all titles and health testing can be looked up. Also, pedigree allows to see inbreeding — breeding from closely related animals, especially over many generations. A good breeder understands the consequences of inbreeding and it is not uncommon to see inline breeding starting at sharing the same dog on a third line - puppy is "0", parents are 1, grandparents are 2, great-grandparents are 3 this is the closest inbreeding allowed. Not only this is unethical, but persistent inbreeding has produced an unusually high frequency of sufferers from genetic diseases and abnormalities. Pedigree is important, as it provides information on lineage, whether or not every dog on the pedigree is health tested, shown, titled, meets breed conformation and temperament. Each line has its own conformation standard, temperament traits and working abilities. Therefore, for this article we are going to quote a fellow hobby-breeder, Len from Hektor Haus. These shepherds should at a very minimum be AKC certified. With no paperwork, free might be acceptable if you just want to give a dog a new home. Hopefully the people responsible for their actions would also cover deworming, vaccinations and other fees. Unfortunately, American lines are now in hands of back-yard breeders, this has caused bad reputation of the breed, high number of health issues and lots of shelter dogs. We do not breed American Lines, as they do not satisfy our standards of breeding. German Working Line: These Shepherds range depending on the breeder, facilities, bloodline, etc. They can be more with additional training. German Show Lines: These are dogs that adhere to the breed standard and are significantly different animals. While any dog can be an excellent companion, these are beautiful, extraordinary family members with a little less drive than the working line. All health testing of a dog can also be looked up. It is important to understand what lines the dog comes from and how many dogs on the pedigree were tested and what grades were given to the dogs on the pedigree. A good breeder will have a record of all health testing for their breeding dogs and will be happy to show a proof of the grade. For OFA-evaluated dogs, a Certificate is issued and results can be found online. It is extremely important to evaluate the entire lineage. For German Shepherd, these are optional and are not a requirement for breeding. They simply are a tool to utilize while making breeding decisions. DM results are seen more now, while the test is not a guarantee to avoid a DM in puppies. Many times we see DM test being the only test done, as it is relatively low cost and can be done at home, without a visit to a vet. DM tested dog is NOT health tested dog. So, the chances of genetic health issues in a puppy are minimized. Breeders can only do their very best to carefully choose breeding stock dogs and health test them prior to breeding to minimize the risks of any health issues in puppies and trust that Mother Nature will allow only the best genes to be passed on. Just like in humans, two healthy parents can unfortunately have a baby with a health issue. Of course, in our human world feelings take over the genetic imbalances. But being a breeder, we choose the dogs we are letting to mate to produce a litter and therefore, we can analyze the dogs prior to the breeding to see how they are comparable and healthy. Working with a healthy pool of genes and choosing the best — brings the chances of health issues to a minimum. We also find it ethical to health test any dog before deciding to breed to ensure that this dog is capable to have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. When it comes to it, when you look at parents, do they look like the dog you dream to own? What do the titles mean? Given only to a group of outstanding German shepherds at a Sieger show. Outstanding German shepherds with full dentition and good character. Really about average, given to typical but not exceptional animals. Given to below average dogs. Poor quality dogs but of tolerable character. Given to dogs with faulty character or serious faults, ungraded. Why is this important? While a breed standard for a German Shepherd Dog is clearly written and can be found online, we must understand why some dogs rank higher, why some are disqualified and what to look for. One way to do so - is to look at dog or images of the dog shows yourself. The more dogs you see, the better you understand the quality of the breed. We believe that if a person can not see a difference, and to them "a dog is a dog", they most likely are better off adopting a dog from a shelter anyway. To us, the difference between well-bred and poorly-bred dog is tremendous, and just by looking at the images of parents or puppies, we can see where the breeding is going and what potential a puppy has. Please note, that we are not for breeding "the best looking dogs" only - No! They all are equally important. A good responsible breeder will do anything possible to stay as close to the breed standard as possible and eliminate breed faults from their breeding. Therefore, off-colors, off-size and off-temperament dogs must not be used in breeding. It must be a big red flag for a buyer. Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember.

We are dedicated to breeding healthy Labradoodles, and all our breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health tests for eyes, hips, elbows, and at least eight potential genetic conditions. Our breeding dogs live in loving guardian homes and are cherished members of wonderful families. They return to Brasken for delivering and raising their puppies. Our Guardian Home program allows our breeding dogs to stay with their families for their entire lives, ensuring they receive the love and attention they deserve. Labradoodle Puppy Care We believe in providing our puppies with the best care possible. Before coming home, our Labradoodle puppies receive their first set of vaccinations, deworming, and are microchipped. They come with a health record booklet, a familiar blanket, a bag of food, a puppy info packet, and a puppy training book to help you get started on the right foot. Frequently Asked Questions What breeding accreditations do you have? We are accredited by the AFAA, which recognizes us as one of the trusted labradoodle breeders in California. For our puppies we use the Pawprint Genetics Laboratory and ensure our breeding Labradoodles pass health tests for eyes, hips, elbows, and at least eight potential genetic conditions. Do the puppies come with a health guarantee? Yes, all our puppies come with a health guarantee. Can I visit your facility to see the conditions in which your dogs and puppies are kept? We do welcome people to come by to see our facility and the pups which you can do by scheduling an appointment. What is the puppy adoption process? Our puppy adoption process involves filling out a puppy application, reviewing our contract, and placing a deposit to reserve a puppy. Are the puppies trained and socialized before coming home? Yes, our puppies receive early socialization and handling. We start their training by introducing them to basic commands and potty training. What do your Labradoodle puppies come home with? Our Labradoodle puppies come home with their first set of vaccinations, deworming, a microchip, a health record booklet, a familiar blanket, a bag of food, a puppy info packet, and a puppy training book. What size Labradoodles do you breed? We breed miniature, medium, and standard-size Labradoodles. What generation do you breed? We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles for sale in California How much do your Labradoodles cost? We also have guardian labradoodles available if cost is a concern. For more information, please visit our website or contact us directly. We are excited to help you find the perfect Labradoodle puppy to join your family! We had researched breeders and liters for over a year until deciding on Brasken. We adopted our love bug a couple months ago and are beyond thrilled. Because Brandon and Kristen run a strict breeding program for health, temperament and beauty their pups are so exceptional. They will thoroughly educate you from A to Z on all things puppy to prepare you for adoption day and puppyhood. Our Frankie Grace is only 16 weeks old and listens to all our commands. I swear she is almost human. She is a dream. She loves hugs, running, playing ball, meeting new friends human and fur. Branden and Kristen were incredible to work with and provided us with all the right tools and information to bring our girl home. They are extremely knowledgable and caring to all puppies and their families. We couldn't be happier and look forward to our continued relationship with Brasken. They are amazing. They are dedicated to this breed and producing the best puppies. We were so impressed on our site visit to meet them and pick up our puppy. Our dog is wonderful, truly a part of our family. Cannot recommend them highly enough. Scroll through their website to see how awesome the dogs are they breed. You will fall in love with their puppies. Beth MacLean. As an authentic Australian Labradoodle hobby breeder, They offer beautiful Labradoodles with the desirable, blocky-style head, stocky, heavy boned frame, and the signature luxurious, soft coats. AS members of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association, we have made it our focus to protect the health and future of our puppies while maintaining the integrity of the Labradoodle breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to quality, not only in the choice of premium pedigree characteristics, but also holding in upmost importance OFA hip, OFA elbow, and ACVO eye health clearances to ensure the healthiest labradoodle puppies possible. Labradoodles are known to have a laid back, easy going temperament and are great family friends. They are intelligent, easy to train, and typically finish at the top of their obedience classes. Our Sycamore Canyon Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding in stunning textures and colors. Our Sycamore Canyon Labradoodle family is so blessed to be involved in sharing our puppies with other loving, caring families. All of our puppies are raised for proper socialization and handling from birth. We have four children still at home, so our Labradoodles are loved n and played with in a positive and healthy environment, guaranteeing a foundation that will help them reach their full potential. Paying attention to how our puppies grow from the day they are born to their rehoming at eight weeks old, you can be confident that they are constantly exposed to everyday sights and sounds to create a positive experience that will enable them to become life long companions. With 17 years of experience in breeding Australian Labradoodles, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We work closely with our licensed vet to perform health testing, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. We provide a temperature controlled, in home my master bedroom environment, with sound therapy to expose your puppy to lifes sounds from an early age. This helps desensitize your puppy to the sounds of life traffic, fireworks, outdoor machinery, crying baby, misc appliances, automobiles, etc. We start crate training at 5 weeks with a soothing heartbeat snuggle puppy to comfort them as they transition to sleeping alone and all the puppies love it and sleep better with minimal crying. We add nutrients and special additives for puppies to their drinking water. We add probiotics to their food for a healthy GI tract and immune system. We make special liver water, gruel, with puppy supplements, dog milk formula to their nutritionally dense food to support eyes, ear, bone, joint, coat and heart health. We expose your puppy to sunlight daily on the deck right outside the puppy nursery area. There is always a plush bedding for their cozy comfort in their play areas for those impromptu naps puppies love. Our puppies are held and played with while being bathed and exposed to water, in our walk-in shower, which builds a positive experience, with water, for their lifetime. Bath time is with a human sitting in this large shower allowing plenty of space for your puppy too roam around and enjoy water in a nurturing experience. The puppies love it instead of being in a sink with a dry human just washing them. Water is actual playtime while they get clean and build positive experiences with being wet. Instead we utilize Puppy Culture, Badass Breeder protocols and tons of love from humans that are passionate and dedicated to what they do. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to providing you with your fury best friend! When full grown, these health tested, Australian Labradoodle puppies will be approximately pounds with wavy fleece coats, curly fleece coats or the occasional straighter hair fleece coats. Our puppies can go home as early as 8 weeks old. We can also hold back a puppy if you are interested in training services. Sugar Pine Doodles on Facebook. Would you like to be a guardian for one of our breeding doodles? Please click for our Guardian Home Program to learn more. Find the Next Member of Your Family. A Serious Case of Puppy Love. From Our Home to Yours. Welcome Australian Labradoodle Lovers! As Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we specialize in allergy-friendly Australian Labradoodles. We choose to breed just a few, select mini and medium labradoodle puppy litters each year. We have a whimsical, silly outlook on life and we like to think that our Labradoodle puppies are the same. We are located in between Northern and Southern California, however we do have a Puppy Nanny who will ensure that your Moo Cow puppy arrives to you safely, regardless of your location. Instead, we love that we can personally deliver these adorable California Labradoodle puppies when we have Labradoodle puppies for sale. Email us at moocowlabradoodles gmail. As premier Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we take our Labradoodle puppies seriously! Our dogs are a part of our family and live indoors. Every Australian Labradoodle has completed health testing and we strive for proper temperament, ability and conformation. Learn more about our Multigen Labradoodle breeding practices and state-of-the-art puppy nursery on our About Us page. Even if you are outside California and want a labradoodle puppy we have for sale, we can personally deliver it via our labradoodle puppy nanny service! Welcome to Country Club Labradoodles! Central Coast Having a new litter of Australian Labradoodle puppies for sale , excepting deposits! Text or call Shelly at or email countryclublabradoodles gmail. Labradoodles are a new and upcoming breed! We raise Multi Generation Labradoodles. These dogs are very social with kids and pets as we have put a lot of time into their development of behavior. These are special dogs for special people! Owners of Labradoodles say that their dogs are affectionate, full of personality, gentle with children and easy to train! Labradoodles are a very active breed and need regular exercise. The result of this cross produced intelligent, easily trainable puppies that were the beginning of the Labradoodles as we now know it. Crossing these two breeds also gave the Labradoodles a hybrid vigor and a variety of coats. Please keep in mind that a puppy is a wonderful thing, but remember that Labradoodle puppies do grow into dogs and your looking at a years commitment on your part! Please look at our website to thoroughly investigate this breed before making your decision.

More than other breeds, the bulldog mother may need your help with nursing, feeding and weaning pups. Bulldog Pregnancy and Birth A typical bulldog pregnancy lasts around 63 days. The bulldog's physical shape means that many dogs are unable to give birth to their puppies without assistance -- the female bulldog's pelvis is very narrow and each puppy's head is very large. When puppies are born by caesarean section, the mother dog does not get the full physical and hormonal cues telling her body that the puppies have been born. After a caesarean section, you will need to milk the mother dog's colostrum to feed the newborn pups. This special milk, produced only for a short time after birth, contains antibodies that are important to the health of the newborn pups. If the mother's colostrum is unavailable, you can substitute a commercial colostrum formula. Twenty-four hours after being born, the puppies can drink commercial puppy milk formula if the mother is unable to nurse. Ideally, the puppies will nurse from their mother as soon as possible after being born. Those puppies nursing within the first 12 hours after being born have the best survival chances. Nursing Schedule In the first four to five days, newborn bulldog puppies need to nurse every two hours. It may look as though the pups are feeding more often -- or even constantly -- because not all the mother dog's teats will carry milk at the same time. As they get older, they will need to feed less frequently. Make sure that all the puppies get their turn at the teat during feeding time -- sometimes the larger or stronger pups will push aside smaller or weaker puppies. Bottle Feeding If you are bottle-feeding the puppies, you'll need to do so every two hours, day and night, until they are 6 days old. After that, the puppies can go to a feeding schedule of six to eight feedings every day until they are 3 weeks old, and four feedings daily beyond that point. At each feeding, a puppy should receive 1cc of prepared formula milk for every ounce of its body weight. Transition to Food Around 1 month after birth, puppies typically start eating some soft foods, although they will continue to nurse from the mother until they reach 8 weeks old. As puppies start eating soft foods, you will need to clean out each puppy's facial wrinkles -- the puppies and the mother may be unable to clean their wrinkles completely. If soft food gets stuck in a puppy's wrinkles, it may develop infection or sores. Typically, the mother dog will start to wean the dogs between 5 weeks and 7 weeks after birth. At this point, you can start introducing hard foods such as puppy kibble. More Articles. Below is baby english bulldog puppies week by week. Variables such as temperature, air movement, and nutrient intake must be tightly controlled. Puppies are kept separate from their mother to ensure they are not laid on nor neglected. Your English Bulldog Baby at this age, most often do not have their eyes open yet. Instead they rely on their sense of hearing to know where their mom is and the other littermates. Week 3 The third week of life is a big week as major, physical development and progress are made during this week. The baby bulldogs should begin cracking their eyes open and begin developing their new found eyesight. Increased visibility adds a small level of independence that is certainly appreciate. The young puppies are now able to locate their mother and nurse more consistently on their own. During this week, we most often make the decision to leave the litter with their mother permanently. Mom will take on the responsibility of not only nursing the puppies but also cleaning up after them. This also means we are able to get a full night of sleep! What do we look for in a good Bulldog mother? Bulldog mom has to have a genetically clean pedigree history. We make sure each bulldog line that we produce has the best chance to stay healthy and happy. Bulldog mom has to have a great personality. We demand that all the bulldogs we own are extremely confident and great with both children and other pets. Breeding bulldogs with great personalities is very important as many social traits are passed from the parents to the baby. Bulldog mom has to have a great maternal instinct. Because the babies are so vulnerable we try to select and keep female English Bulldogs that show endearing and caring traits towards their babies. Week 4 Week four is our walking week! While bulldog puppies do begin to walk earlier at times, typically during week four we begin to see some major walking. The new found mobility is a joy to watch but does present some different types of responsibility as our bulldog puppies certainly can get themselves into trouble! During this week, we will start to perform some basic socialization steps to ensure that they are prepared for their new homes. Week 5 The puppies are now able to run, chew, and yes, sometimes bite! With the physical progress there are certainly ample teaching opportunities to develop these little guys into well behaving bulldogs. During this time we continue to analyze each puppy socially and develop unique, social profiles of each bully. The puppies start to focus less on physical survival and devote much of their time to playing with their littermates. This is a great learning environment for the puppies! This mushy treat quickly becomes a favorite for the pups. A robust bulldog puppy can now weigh around 5 pounds. The puppies will also undergo their first round of vet checks to ensure they are developing physically sound bodies. Socially, we continue work with the puppies to ensure they are exposed to the many different environments of the new homes they will be going to all while balancing a high level of biosecurity to ensure they are not exposed to harmful diseases to ensure for a healthy English Bulldog! The puppies are now old enough and confident enough in themselves to begin developing expectations. Being held and being fed are no longer special occasions rather they are rights to life that are demanded. We continue to provide the high level of care that we hold ourselves to while developing flexibility within each bulldog pup. Week 8 The theme for week 8 is adoption preparation. We will make a decision with our vet the age in which the bulldogs are able to be taken home. The primary variable within this decision is physical development. Most of our bulldogs will go home right around the end of week 9 all the way to week .It simply depends on the bulldog. At this point we encourage our adopters to finish prepping for their puppy. Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Pinterest Email Depending on which stage a puppy enters your life, different schedules and guides for feeding puppies apply. A puppy grows very fast, passing through several life stages quickly. Bottle Feeding Puppies Newborn puppies require bottle feeding. For very small puppies, sometimes a needle-less syringe can substitute for a bottle. For puppies with larger mouths, your vet can recommend the appropriate type of bottle and silicone or rubber nipple. Commercial puppy milk formulas for feeding puppies are readily available either from your vet or from large pet store chains. You can make your own formula — there are many to be discovered online — but check with your vet about the recipe you have chosen before using it. Be sure to make a new batch every day to keep the food fresh. Heat the formula to degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure the milk drips, not streams, out of the nipple or syringe. Feeding puppies, especially feeding newborn puppies, requires patience. Find a comfortable seat. Cradle the puppy in your hand or in a soft towel and introduce the nipple to his mouth. You want him to swallow the droplets from the syringe and learn to suck on the nipple, not flood him with formula and hope some goes down. Watch out for choking and avoid holding him on his back. Newborn puppies do not drink from their mothers lying on their backs, so such a posture would be unnatural. Afterward, mimic what the mother dog would do. Also, remember to allow your puppy a little quiet time after eating. Carrying him about or allowing him to play vigorously with family members could cause a tummy upset that causes him to lose all you put in him. Newborn puppies generally need about 1 cc of formula per ounce of body weight every three hours round the clock. Feeding Puppies: Weaning to Solid Food at About 3 to 4 Weeks At about 3 or 4 weeks, as you see your puppy begin to explore his little world, you can take the next step when it comes to feeding puppies. Begin to introduce solid puppy food, but do not immediately stop bottle feeding. Ask your vet what brand of high-quality puppy food she recommends. Buy the best you can. At this stage, begin feeding puppies by spooning a little of the formula you have been using over the solid food just to get the puppies started. Discard uneaten food and put out fresh food the next time. Do not expect your puppy to immediately begin to gobble up this new food in spite of the fact that he seems to put everything else in his mouth. Puppies really love to nurse, so chewing may not appeal initially. For reluctant puppies, you might try putting a very small bit of the new solid food in his mouth and encouraging him cheerfully. As you introduce solid food when feeding puppies, it is also time to introduce water. Boiled and cooled or filtered water is safest for young puppies. Show him how to approach the water and have him take a few drops from your hand initially. Continue to introduce him to the water until he drinks on his own. Water is essential for non-nursing puppies. Remember that patience with training puppies yields cooperative and trusting adult dogs. By about 6 to 8 weeks, your puppy can be weaned off the formula and onto solid food. As your puppy grows, naturally, make the portions bigger, but remember, the idea is to support healthy growth, not a chronically plump little chowhound. Regular check ups with your vet will help you to ascertain if your puppy is attaining the proper weight. As your puppy reaches adult size, he will need to eat less since he is growing less. Again, encourage growth in bone and muscle not fat. If your puppy is overweight, see what to do if your puppy is overweight. Kindness to your new puppy begins with nutrition and patience with feeding and builds trust for a lifetime. This piece was originally published in .This is only a guideline, some puppies may want to eat slightly more and some may want to eat slightly less. Overfeeding is the main issue with bottle feeding. People may think that the puppy is still hungry and feed it more. Overfeeding can cause vomiting or diarrhea but also regurgitation and bloating. Regurgitation can lead to aspiration, mainly aspiration pneumonia which can be fatal. If they develop diarrhea or vomiting, contact your veterinarian for advice. Most puppies will start the weaning process around weeks of age. When you start feeding your puppy a new diet, you need to make this change slowly and gradually. After this week period, your puppy should be eating the new food only. Conclusion Bottle-feeding puppies is a rewarding yet challenging task. Puppies need to be fed the appropriate amounts at the right intervals and should be fed a high-quality puppy formula. Frequently Asked Questions How much should I feed my newborn puppy? Newborn puppies need approximately 15 mls per 2 oz of body weight in a 24 hour period. Weighing them regularly is very important. How often should a newborn puppy be fed? Newborn puppies need to be fed every 2 hours and this interval increases by 1 hour every 2 weeks of life. How many ml should a newborn puppy drink? A newborn puppy will drink 15 mLs per 2oz of body weight in 24 hours. How do you know if newborn puppies are getting enough milk? Newborn puppies that are well-fed will be gaining adequate weight each week and thriving. She has worked in a mixture of UK small animal hospitals along with Irish based practices. She worked for 3 years in a feline only hospital where she further developed her feline medicine and surgery skills. She currently works in a small animal hospital in Cork, Ireland where she lives. You bred your Frenchie bitch. You got her through two months of pregnancy. Now you have puppies. The panic sets in. What have you done? What do you do next? Once you get the mother and puppies home, the work is just beginning. Enjoy the brief flush of satisfaction from the accomplishment. There is lots left to do. Is it covered to protect the pups from drafts? Once it is warm, put the newborn puppies inside. Consider this the First Commandment: Keep the puppies warm! For the first few hours, the mother will be weak and disoriented from surgery. If she has lost a lot of blood, she may even be in shock. She needs to be kept comfortable and warm, too. But one warning: Do not leave her alone with the puppies until you are certain she has recovered. Because of the surgery, some mothers have difficulty recognizing that the puppies are theirs. She should be introduced to them gently, and allowed to smell them and lick them. As soon as possible, lay her down in the whelping box which should be warm and protected and put the new puppies on her to feed. Initially, they may have to be coaxed to attach to a nipple. It is extremely important that they get some of the colostrum, the yellowish pre-milk that the mother will secrete at first. It is loaded with antibodies the puppies need to establish their immune systems. The Second Commandment is: Keep the puppies fed. The puppies should be encouraged to feed as often as possible. They should definitely feed once every two hours during the initial days. They will quickly gain strength and seek out the mother on their own once everyone has settled into a routine. Once the mother has recognized her puppies, she should begin to lick them and clean them. This is the Third Commandment: Keep their digestive tracts functioning. If she is not licking them, you will have to substitute. Rather than doing it exactly as she would, the best way is to use cotton balls moistened with warm water. Rub gently underneath to make them urinate, and behind to make them defecate. This should be done following each feeding. Keeping the digestive tract functioning involves the simple rule: put something in, something comes out. If the elimination of waste stops, the puppy will cease feeding, and will quickly start to waste away. If the puppy becomes chilled, the digestive tract almost always shuts down. In every litter, there will be stronger, larger more dominant puppies. They will feed more vigorously, and will tend to push the other puppies away. This becomes a serious problem with a larger litter. If necessary, move any dominant pups to one side to allow the others ample opportunity to feed. During the first twenty-four hours, the mother should not be left unattended with her puppies. She will still be weak and disoriented. She may accidentally lay on a pup or step on it. If she becomes frightened, she might bite or injure one. If you are right there, you can reassure her. You can also intervene if something goes wrong. You will have to be there anyway, as the pups will need to feed the moment your eyelids get heavy. One can get some rest while the other holds vigil. Otherwise, you will learn why it is said that sleep deprivation is the most successful form of torture. The yellowish colostrum will be replaced by pure white. And quantity should increase. You should notice a gradual change in the puppies. From a somewhat wrinkled appearance, they should start to plump up. Their tummies will start to become engorged after each feeding. If the mother is licking and cleaning the puppies, and is allowing them to feed, all is well. You can relax, somewhat. Some mothers take several days to settle into motherhood. If that is the case, clean the puppies regularly to stimulate elimination. As the puppies grow, they will learn to eliminate without stimulus. But if they are not cleaned, their little tails can end up stuck to their behinds. If you are remiss and allow that to happen, you will have to dissolve and dislodge the mess so they can eliminate. And it can set up like epoxy. Use warm water and cotton, and work at it as gently as you can. It may take some time. If the mother is reluctant to clean the pups, hold them up to her to show her what she needs to do. Once shown a messy pup, most mothers will relent and start to lick. Occasionally, the opposite syndrome will occur. A mother will clean too eagerly, resulting in raw, chafed little butts. If the pups are crying inordinately, this is a possible cause. Petroleum jelly for the chafing, or neomycin ointment will help ease the discomfort. Call your vet immediately and have her checked. In the meantime, you will have to bottle feed. Do not allow the pups to go hungry for long. Once they become weak, it will be difficult to get them to feed. There are many recipes around for substitute milk to feed them. Nowadays, a simple expedient is to buy prepared milk substitute for puppies. All you have to do is heat it to the right temperature and use it. The containers have complete directions. Bottles and nipples designed specifically for feeding puppies are available. Using newborn infant bottles and nipples should substitute nicely. If the puppies are older, you may have to widen the opening in the nipple to afford greater flow. As with breast feeding, bottle feeding needs to be done every two to four hours. Make sure each puppy gets enough. If they are not feeding well, give them smaller meals more often. If you have to bottle feed, be very careful. Because of their flat faces, it is easy for the puppies to aspirate milk. That can go one of two ways. When puppies feed too vigorously, milk will come out their nose. Be sure to clear it out completely, as it can cause infection. It can also be aspirated later into the lungs. The greatest risk with bottle feeding is that the puppy will aspirate milk directly into the lungs. If you take your time, and hold the puppy flat enough, this should not occur. If it does, you can tell by the rattling sound as the puppy breathes. Go directly to the vet. This is where a flexible plastic tube is inserted carefully down the throat so that the milk can be placed directly in the stomach. If done improperly, tube feeding puts the milk directly into the lung. Most important in this technique is to have a tube cut to exactly the right length. You need to measure how far the tube needs to go to reach the stomach. Tube feeding is best left to experts. Learning how to tube feed is best done with somebody experienced in the technique. Once the technique is learned, though, it is much faster and more efficient than bottle feeding. It is also the technique of last resort if a puppy is too weak to feed voluntarily. As the puppies grow and feed, they will become stronger and more active. They will more readily seek out the mother themselves. Although their eyes are not open, they can find her by smell and touch sometimes they seem totally lost , and by her body heat. The whole foreface is a complex of sensoria designed to find the mother, determine where a nipple is, and even to detect which is their regular nipple. You can start to relax a little more. If all goes well, the puppies should open their eyes around the tenth day. At first, their eyes will look scary and vacant when they open. Their ability to focus comes later. Frenchies take more time than other breeds to come up onto their rear legs. I have seen greyhound puppies on their feet before their eyes even open! But they should begin to get up on their front legs somewhere around the second week. They need a surface with good traction to get up on. Remnant carpet pieces work well. Slippery surfaces will make it hard for them to strengthen the pelvic muscles that hold the rear legs in position. Infections, viruses, congenital defects can all cause puppies to sicken and die. The mother can step or lay on a puppy and unintentionally cause injury or death. Amazingly, most puppies make it through. Somewhere between four and six weeks of age, the puppies will need to be weaned. If you are slow in starting them on solid food, the mother will let you know. Once the puppies start to develop teeth, her desire to let them feed declines precipitously. There are commercial products available, and most serious breeders have their own recipes for mush to give to puppies. The most important thing to remember is that it needs to be soft enough that they can lap it up at first. One simple alternative is to purchase good quality dry puppy food with a complete array of vitamins and minerals and pulverize it in a blender. Keep thinning it until it is just capable of being poured. Then warm it a microwave oven works well to about body temperature. Thin it a little more once it is warm, as heating will tend to thicken it. For the first attempt, the final product should be thin enough that the puppies can lap it up. Take the mother out while you are giving them the solid food. It may take some effort to coax them to try it. It can also end up looking like a food fight in a Three Stooges comedy. If they try it, good. They will do better the next day. Once you are done, let the mother back in to clean up the remaining food. She should help you with the puppies, but you may have to clean off the messiest of the puppies yourself. Start supplying them water to drink. The solid food will make them thirsty. You should be able to get the puppies to eat the semisolid food in a period of about a week. Once they will accept it readily, you can remove the mother. The puppies will need to be fed around three times a day once they are on their own. Gradually reduce the liquid portion of the food. If they will not accept it, it is too dry. The move to solid food will cause a quantum leap in growth. The puppies should grow less soft and beanbaggy, and should start strengthening up. Their immune systems will need to be built up by the time they are six months old. Talk to your vet to set up an immunization schedule. Suddenly they will look like Frenchies. By this time, you should have strong indications of their personalities, as well. A noisy five-week-old will likely be a vocal adult as well. A loving one or a shy one should correspond similarly. Training can begin somewhere around this stage. It is surprising how much a willing young puppy can learn. Familiarize them with a collar and lead. Teach them proper bathroom etiquette. Make sure that any new owners understand the special care required with bull breeds. They need to know they are indoor-outdoor dogs, and should not be left out at night. New owners should be encouraged to develop a relationship with their vet before any problems occur. Most importantly, let new owners know they can come to you for help if there is any problem with the puppy. You should be able to help them with the simple stuff, and warn them to get to the vet with anything more major. You want the puppies to do well in their new environments. If there was something you were breeding for, did you get it? If there was something you were breeding away from, did you succeed? What other surprise faults and problems came in with the breeding? Once you have done this for half a dozen generations, you should be able to see some trends. Some characteristics will pop up again after a few generations of dormancy. Others will dominate and stay with you no matter what you do. How you handle these characteristics and where you go is all part of what makes you a good breeder. John Niedhamer. When do puppies start transitioning to solid food? In these scenarios, pet parents have to step in to help feed the babies around the clock. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club AKC , recommends using a baby scale to monitor the weight gain of each puppy. Puppies should first be weighed at birth and again at 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, three days, five days, and seven days. If everything is going well, all puppies should show a gradual weight gain. If this behavior is sudden or excessive, it requires an emergency vet visit for both mom and baby. Newborn puppies typically nurse from their mom about every two hours. As they grow older, the time between nursing increases, and by four or five weeks — or even as early as three — Mom starts weaning her puppies. How often should you feed a newborn puppy? It depends on their age. Newborn orphaned puppies who are less than two weeks old should be fed every three to four hours, while 2- to 4-week-old puppies will do well being fed every six to eight hours. Best Friends Animal Society recommends the Esbliac puppy milk replacer when feeding orphaned puppies or those who need extra support. Experts say that any puppy milk replacer should contain optimal levels of omega-3 fatty acid and DHA docosahexaenoic acid , a nutrient that is important for the development of their brains and eyes. Containers will come with feeding instructions — follow these carefully. Just as with newborn babies, the milk can be tested on your forearm before feeding. You want it about the same temperature as your skin or only slightly warmer. As you nourish your newborn, be aware that overfeeding may put your puppy at risk of aspiration, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas build-up in the stomach and intestines. How to bottle-feed a newborn puppy A puppy nursing bottle is the best way to feed your bundle of joy. The size of the hole in the nipple is crucial to successful bottle feeding, according to experts at Best Friends. To check this, turn the bottle upside down and gently squeeze: If the milk drips freely, the hole is too large. That means the puppy could take in too much and risk inhaling it into their lungs. If the hole is too small, the puppy has to work too hard to get nourishment and may refuse to nurse. Instead, place the puppy on their stomach with their head level as if they were nursing from their mom. Tilt the bottle up slightly to prevent your puppy from inhaling too much air. Do not force the puppy to nurse, or allow them to nurse too fast. According to the AKC, some orphan puppies take a little time to get the knack for the sucking part of feeding. In addition, for the first two weeks, orphan pups should be stimulated to urinate and defecate after each meal. This is done by rubbing the area between the back legs with a warm, wet cotton ball. This action mimics the licking mom does to make her puppies go potty. When pups are with their mom, they may start the process of weaning — or transitioning from milk to solid food — as early as three to four weeks of age. You can begin by mixing puppy milk replacer and puppy food, though adding a bit of water is always an option, too. If they need a little encouragement, dipping a finger in the food and then touching their noses with it can be a great way to entice them to eat. By 8 to 10 weeks, says Manucy, the puppies should be fully weaned. Nothing will bring you more joy and satisfaction than watching those fur babies thriving under your loving care. Editors' Recommendations. The early care and environment of the English Bulldog newborn puppy are very important. Reasons a English Bulldog puppy might die early on are usually due to difficult whelping, congenital or genetic defects, environmental factors i. Things to have handy in case of an emergency: a box of Amoxi-Drops anti-diarrhea medication like Biosol, Kaolin-Pectin, or Neo-Pectilin thermometer Karo syrup or honey tube feeding kit 10 feeding tube and 10cc feeding syringe several cans of puppy formula like Esbilac; however, it is very important that a English Bulldog puppy get its mother's milk if at all possible during the first 5 days to protect it from infection and give it antibodies from the mother's milk You can purchase pre-made formula from your vet and outside of the mother's milk, it is best. However, the following formula is cheaper and provides all the nutrition. It's been used by many people and gives good results: l can Carnation evaporated milk some prefer canned goat's milk. Many use it instead of evaporated milk - both can be found in the bakery section of your grocery store. If this seems to be, change to bottled water to make the formula. Keeping the litter box tempature between degrees with no drafts for the first few days is usually adequate. Other sources of warmth can be heating pads or heat lamps. If using a heating pad, monitor the intensity of heat, as pups have been known to cook on pads set on high settings! There are many excellent heat lamps on the market, but remember that caution is needed. Heat lamps have been known to start fires! The temperature on the English Bulldog puppies 1 inch above the bottom of the box should be about degrees with a corner that is slightly cooler and allow them to scoot to wherever they like best. There should also be plenty of clean blankets, as this will allow for regulation of temperature. If a English Bulldog puppy has its mouth open, it's too hot. If a English Bulldog puppy is too cool, it often won't show anything - but it can be deadly. Hydration is one of the most important things to monitor in new bulldog pups, as it can be one of the first signs of problems. Check hydration by by pinching the skin on the back of the neck or on the top of the back. If the pinched skin stays creased, the English Bulldog puppy is dehydrated and needs fluid replacement. Also, a dehydrated bulldog pup's coat will sometimes have a ruffled or scruffy appearance. Dehydration can either be a result of inadequate nourishment, too much heat, or sickness. It is strongly suggested that you use regular newborn or infant bottles and nipples. The ones available for purchase for cats, dogs, ferrets, etc. Bottle feeding is far more preferable. The sucking on a nipple, the handling and holding of the English Bulldog puppy is so very important to their overall development. The English Bulldog puppy should be held with his head upwards and his body and tail down in a 45 to 90 degreee angle when bottle feeding. If English Bulldog puppies and their blankets are not kept clean, it is very easy to come down with a staph infection and diarrhea - which is serious, as bulldog puppies can go downhill quickly. As mentioned before, it is equally serious if the English Bulldog puppies get chilled so avoid drafts. Even if you have them in a basket with a heating pad, you need to cover the basket with a towel to keep out drafts. A chilled English Bulldog puppy must be warmed up. Put it in a pocket so that it's warm and jiggled as you walk around, or if you are a woman put it in your bra for your body heat. There are lots of little ways to accomplish it. Don't worry about feeding formula to a chilled English Bulldog puppy because it will have the opposite effect: their body cannot handle the food and makes it all the worse for the English Bulldog puppy. Priority should be to get the bulldog puppy warmed up slowly. Newborn English Bulldog puppies cannot regulate their body temperature or body functions like urinating and stools. It is important that they are pottied at each feeding. They might not have a stool each time, but they will urinate. This is what the mother does when she licks them. But some mothers don't want to be bothered, especially the first few days. After that, she will become a good mommy. Some might start off being good, then after a few days, or even a couple of weeks, not want to be bothered and might even be nasty to the puppies such as snapping and biting them. Always be careful and watch. Don't leave her alone until the bulldog pups are big enough not to be laid on, or big enough that you know that the bitch is a good mother. If the mother will not clean the babies, you must be sure to do it. Using a kleenex, gently rub the area to stimulate their potty. Then be sure to clean them well. Make sure to check them even if the mother cleans them. Often the stool will get stuck to the tail and be dry. If that happens, or if the English Bulldog puppy seems to be straining and constipated, try the following: Run warm water in the sink slowly. Put a drop of soap on their behinds, and wash and massage their behinds; it will get the tail and poop unstuck, clean them up, and cause them to potty very well. Make sure they are well rinsed, and dried thoroughly so they don't get chilled. If the little bottoms are red and sore, use some Desitin ointment. You may see green puppy stools and stools that have an appearance of bunches of tiny seeds. If all else seems normal, this seems to be harmless and short-lived. However, watery diarrhea can be very serious if left unchecked. There can be many causes, like the mother's diet, or infection. Diarrhea together with vomiting usually means infection. For the first 3- 5 days an average English Bulldog puppy ouncer will take about 10 cc's every hours. It should be broken into feedings every 2 hours 5cc per feeding. If it is a good sized bulldog puppy 1 lb. Towards the end of a week, you should increase the food needed to about cc or more. For the first week they should eat every two hours. If they are good size bulldog babies, you can sometimes go longer. By the second week, as long as you don't have any problems and they are of good size, you can usually go hours between feedings. An average weight for newborn English Bulldog puppies is around ounces. Good size puppies are oz.

Every six months, or twice a year, German Shepherds go into heat. This is common of huge dog breeds, while smaller dogs could go into heat times annually, and the largest kinds only once a year. In German Shepherds, the time between heat cycles is roughly 6 months. German Shepherd interestrus intervals were reported to be .The cycles of senior German Shepherds will be slower and have fewer heat seasons. Notwithstanding this, your dog will continue to go through estrus throughout her life and is still capable of becoming pregnant despite the shorter estrus seasons. Conception — Gestation delays menstrual cycles and reproductive seasons, just as it does in humans. Your GSD is fertile right now, so mating with her could result in a pregnancy. However, keep in mind that if a female German Shepherd mates before the estrus period, she may become pregnant. This is due to the fact that canine spermatozoa can potentially live for up to 11 days in the female genital canal and are mobile. This is due to the fact that many people believe the proestrus and estrus heat cycle stages to be included in the heat period. She is now fertile enough to become pregnant and is ready to mate. In addition, a dog may become more aggressive toward other female dogs and display unusually increased interest their male counterparts. Urine marking, repeated genital licking and excitement are other signs that your dog wants to breed. To understand the signs that the heat cycle is ending, you should first know what to expect when your female German shepherd is in heat. After all, there is no indication that the heat cycle is ending besides the fact that the signs start to fade away. This lasts for an average of 9 days. The most obvious sign of this stage is when male dogs start to crowd outside of your house. They become attracted. Regardless, your female dog will start to show vaginal bleeding at this stage, although the blood becomes lighter as the period progresses. See also Can german shepherds eat blueberries? During the flagging stage, the dark red vaginal discharge will turn lighter. You may also notice your pet rubbing their rear end against furniture or other objects. These are indications that your female German shepherd is ready to mate. This is also the stage where mature eggs are released from the ovary. Metestrus: Matestrus can be considered as the stage for pregnancy and can last for an average of 9 days. The most noticeable sign is a bulged abdomen, for obvious reasons. Anestrus: Anestrus is the period between each heat cycle and as previously said, it lasts for about 6 months. Some signs will be shown by the female German shepherd throughout the whole heat cycle. A female dog in heat not eating is a normal occurrence throughout the heat cycle. While they may not eat much, you should stock up for when the time comes for them to make up for their lost weight. Female dog aggression during the heat cycle is another sign that your pet is in heat, regardless of the stage. Learn more » A German Shepherd female will enter the heat cycle, known as estrus, at around 6 to 12 months of age. Your pet is about to go through some serious changes in her body as her estrogen levels rise, and she will need to be kept comfortable and safe during the heat cycle, which lasts about 21—28 days. Read on to learn more about the length of the German Shepherd heat cycle and how to take care of your dog. German Shepherd Heat Cycle German Shepherd females usually have their first heat cycles starting anywhere from 6 months to 12 months of age. The heat cycle will last about 21—28 days, and there are roughly two heat cycles per year. There are three stages of heat: proestrus, estrus, and anestrus. A bloody red discharge will appear at this time. Your German Shepherd will not be interested in mating during this phase, and it lasts approximately 7 to 10 days. Estrus is the time during which your German Shepherd female will be interested in mating. It will last around 9 days but could last 3 to 21 days. Your female could become pregnant during this phase of the heat cycle. The bloody discharge turns a lighter red and may become straw-colored during this time. Females will flag by raising their tails or placing them on the side to expose their vagina, which means your dog is ready to breed. Anestrus is the stage where the heat cycle ceases and it lasts about 4 to 5 months until the next heat cycle begins. Some German Shepherd females may go into heat every 6 months, while others may only have one heat cycle per year. The length of the cycle might also vary with some dogs experiencing cycles that last longer than 28 days. Every female German Shepherd will have her own cycle, and you will need to learn to anticipate it to help your dog through the process. Image Credit: adamkontor, Pixabay How to Care for a German Shepherd in Heat When your female German Shepherd goes into heat, you will need to take special care to separate her from any male dogs for at least 21 days, unless you are planning on breeding her. She will also often lick at herself to clean her blood, or you can use a diaper to catch the blood and help ensure that a male will not be able to breed with her. She will also get more vocal as her heat cycle continues. Your female may also display signs of nervousness and anxiety during this time. Play with her, give her love and attention, and let her exercise to her preferred level, as she may have less energy than normal. Final Thoughts German Shepherd females will experience a heat cycle that lasts approximately 21—28 days. During this time, she will go through the first two phases of heat, known as proestrus and estrus, during which she will bleed and be ready to breed. Featured Image Credit: adamkontor, Pixabay Contents. Mice may live only a year or two, whereas an elephant can live 70 years in the wild. Dogs stand as a stark contrast to that fact. A Toy Poodle may live over 14 years in contrast to the average 7 years for a Saint Bernard. That fact plays a direct role when a German Shepherd Dog goes into heat. Research suggests that larger breeds mature slower with shorter lifespans is because it takes so much energy and genetic resources to reach their adult sizes. While that Toy Poodle may be sexually mature at 5—6 months, the German Shepherd Dogs will need some extra time to achieve the same growth level at 9—15 months. The factors that will affect the start include: Age Overall health Size and weight You have some control over those variables, but the die is cast for most of them. Image Credit: Eudyptula, Shutterstock Signs of Estrus in Dogs As a large breed, you can expect the estrus cycle to last between 14—21 days for your German Shepherd dog. It will occur around twice a year for breeds of this size. The first signs that your pup is receptive to males are physical. You may also see your pet licking its genital area as a result. The swelling puts added pressure on other internal organs, including the bladder. The telltale sign is the bloody discharge. Your pup may seem more anxious or agitated. It may mount other objects. Your German Shepherd Dog will permit mating around 10 days into its cycle. Its vaginal discharge will gradually decrease. Either the estrus will end after a long anestrus stage, where all signs will abate, or pregnancy will begin. Care of a Female Dog in Heat The question of what to do with your pet depends on whether you want your dog to have puppies. Females are just as determined as males when it comes to mating. If you take your dog on walks, keep your pup on a short leash. We suggest erring on the side of caution and adhering to these restrictions for the entire 21 days. The discharge and swelling both will have stopped. The pros for spaying your dog: Less impact on overpopulation of dogs Reduces the risk of some cancers of the reproductive system Lessens the chances of potentially life-threatening pyometra The cons for spaying your dog: Heightened risk of vaccine reactions Increases chances of orthopedic conditions and bone cancer Urinary incontinence Obesity Genetic factors play a significant role in determining whether or not the surgery is the best choice for your German Shepherd Dog. It typically occurs later in these pets after 6 months of age. It also affects the timespan between the cycles, which will likely happen twice a year. Knowing the signs can help you prevent an unwanted pregnancy until you and your vet discuss the best option for your dog. Related Reads:. During these days, your GSD is fertile and can get pregnant if she mates. Note, however, that a female German Shepherd can get pregnant if she happens to mate before the estrus period. This is because many people consider the heat period to include both the proestrus and the estrus phases of the heat cycle. A change in the color of discharge pinkish instead of blood-stained. Frequent urination. A loss of appetite. Your dog may also be more aggressive to fellow females and exhibit extra interest in male dogs. Frequent licking of the genitals, agitation, and urine marking are also indications of readiness to mate. Contrary to popular belief, a GSD spraying is not just a boy thing! Here are 7 things you should do to care for a German Shepherd in heat: Keep your dog engaged to distract her from the discomfort of the hormonal changes during the heat period. Playing games, offering treat-filled toys, or taking short walks can help keep your dog happy and calm. This entails keeping her on a leash during walks, not leaving her unattended in the backyard or garden, and keeping her in a separate room in the home. Keep your GSD from carpeted areas of the home, couches, and bedding during the bleeding phase of the heat cycle. Alternatively, you can consider using dog diapers to stop the blood from staining floors and the bedding that your dog lies on. These have a better fit due to the stretchable fabric that fits perfectly around your dog. If your GSD is trying to lick her genitals while in a diaper, consider removing it for some time to give her a chance to self-groom. If your GSD shows the need for extra rest, always allow this. Ensure your dog gets all the recommended nutrients in her meal during heat, including enough fresh drinking water. If your GSD shows a preference for a different meal from the usual, consider giving it to her to boost her appetite. Keep the surrounding environment calm and free of extreme noise or disturbance. Your dog is sensitive to any form of stress during this period. If your GSD shows extreme discomfort or signs of pain in the swollen vulva, use heating pads to give some relief. Your German Shepherd may show unique characteristics and needs during heat. Be attentive and consult your vet about any unusual signs you do not know how to address. German Shepherds go into heat twice a year, approximately every 6 months. This is typical of large dog breeds, as smaller dogs may go into heat times a year, and the largest breeds only once a year. Two studies focusing on dog estrus cycles reported .This may change depending on your dog and her body clock. If your dog is experiencing irregular cycles, you may want to talk to a vet to determine if this is normal or if there are underlying causes. Instead, older German Shepherds will have slowed cycles with fewer heat seasons. Despite this, your dog will still experience estrus her entire life and can still get pregnant despite the reduced estrus seasons. Conception As happens in humans, gestation delays menstrual periods and fertility seasons. Similarly, the interestrus interval, or the period between estrus seasons, is prolonged in German Shepherds and other dogs after whelping. A study reported that German Shepherd Dogs had a regular 6-month estrus interval under normal circumstances, but the interval was prolonged by 58 days in German Shepherds who went into gestation. Seasons Though seasonality is generally considered a non-factor in estrus frequency in German Shepherds and other dogs, it is not an impossibility. Do German Shepherds Experience Menopause? Nonetheless, the estrus phase of their heat cycle will become less regular and last fewer days as your dog ages. If your dog misses an estrus, talk to your vet to rule out any triggering medical conditions. Your German Shepherd does not need to have her first heat to be spayed. In fact, some studies have shown that spaying your German Shepherd before maturity 6 months can predispose your dog to joint disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as some types of cancer like mast cell tumor and lymphoma. Have your GSD checked by a vet if you notice any discharges different from a blood-stained discharge during proestrus and a pinkish or brownish discharge during estrus. The best way to tell if your German Shepherd is in pain during her heat is to pay close attention to her behavior and body language. Look for signs of discomfort such as panting, pacing, or restlessness. She may also be reluctant to move or play. If she is vocalizing more than usual, this could also be a sign of pain. In addition to her behavior, you should also look for physical signs of pain. This happens around months but can be earlier or later in some dogs. Once your German Shepherd has had her first heat, the heat cycles are repeated every 6 months for the rest of her life. Related Posts You May Like:. Is my female GSD in heat? How can I tell? Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. How will I know? What do I do? Intact female dogs dogs that have not been surgically spayed , and that are sexually mature are said to be in estrus, "in heat", or "in season", during their occasional "cycle" in preparation to breed and reproduce. House Clean While Your GSD Is In Heat On average, the complete canine reproductive heat cycle takes about 6 months in length which results in about 2 heat cycles each year for most female Alsatian dogs. Be aware of all aspects of your dogs health and behavioral life, prepare accordingly and you should both have a long and healthy life together. Female German Shepherds, also called bitches, generally have their first heat cycle at around 6 to 12 months of age. Sometimes, a female GSD in heat may not have their first seasonal estrus cycle until they are 12 months of age or older, depending on that particular dog. Remember, however, that this information is very general and not all female dogs will follow these exact patterns. Overall, each individual female dogs heat cycle pattern tends to be relatively close to the basic average, length wise, however lengths of heat cycles may differ from female to female when the female German Shepherd goes into heat. In most cases, the average female German Shepherd Dogs heat cycle lasts about 3 to 4 weeks. Some female German Shepherds can come into estrus as early as every 4 months, while others may do so only once a year. Some canine heat cycles, just like in human females, may be shorter than average while other dogs may have longer ones 4 weeks or longer. Remember these important points concerning your female GSD in heat and her yearly heat cycles and prepare accordingly. First, assume your dog to be "in season" for at least 21 days, possibly longer, which will vary due to your own individual females heat cycle. Second, and this is very important, keep in mind that conception is most likely to happen during the middle section of your GSD's heat cycle - typically around 7 to 14 days after the heat cycles starts. Third, you will need to confine your girl for the entire heat cycle - at least 21 days or more depending on your particular bitch, to make sure that accidental mating does not happen. Whether you keep her indoors or out you will need to make sure that her environment is "Romeo proof". And believe me, you will need to think of everything because an interested male can be very vigilant in getting into a females area if she is in heat. These boys can climb, dig or break into just about any area if so inclined. If your female is in an area that has any weaknesses of any kind, believe me, "Romeo" will find it, get in and breed your female if she is willing. If you have any questions about your female GSD in heat, consult with your veterinarian or breeder - especially if your dogs heat cycles do not seem "normal". Cycling problems in female dogs can often be an early indicator of other or more serious health problems. Is my female German Shepherd in heat? First Stage - Proestrus: begins with the appearance of vaginal bleeding, swelling of the vulva, and possible increase in urination yes, females can mark their territory, especially when they are in heat. The most noticeable thing of all when you have a female GSD in heat, even if you're not sure your female GSD is in heat, is when male dogs begin to hang around the house. Your female German Shepherd will still reject the male during this first stage. Fertilization can not happen at this time. The length of proestrus on average is about 9 days. Second Stage - Estrus: the time in which the female dog will allow the male to breed her. This time is also called "standing heat" and can last anywhere from 4 to 21 days depending on the individual German Shepherd Dog. One particular behavior to look for during this time is called "flagging", which may last between 4 to 7 days. This is just one indicator that is very telling that your female is getting ready to be bred. Ovulation does occur during this flagging stage. Concerning any female GSD in heat, the dark red, bloody vaginal discharge will eventually turn to a lighter shade of red over time. In most dogs, once this vaginal discharge becomes wheat or straw colored, the dog can be said to be most ready for accepting the male and breeding. Third Stage - Metestrus: this is the stage that readies the uterus for pregnancy, and can easily last 4 to 14 days. False pregnancies frequently occur during this time. If fertilization does occur the fertilized eggs may take up to a week before they attach themselves to the uterine wall. Overall this stage averages out as approximately 7 days. Keep in mind that this interval of time will stay the same even if the dog becomes pregnant. If fertilization does not occur then this stage will revert back to anestrus, which is stage four of this process. Fourth Stage - Anestrus: the resting time between heats which normally lasts about 5 or 6 months. If you decide that you need to know exactly what stage of estrus your female GSD may be in, your veterinarian can easily assist you in figuring this out. Scientifically your veterinarian can perform an analysis of the cells of the vagina under the microscope cytology , as well as being able to measure progesterone levels present in your dogs bloodstream. There is no benefit of any kind in letting your female german shepherd have a litter of puppies before having her spayed. In fact, the earlier you spay your dog, the more health risks you are deleting for her down the road, such as breast and other types of cancers, or pyometra, among others. In fact, if you spay you dog before her first heat cycle, you actually give her the most health benefits of all associated with the spaying process. If you do not intend to breed your GSD bitch, you really should consider spaying her and there are many, many positive reasons why. First, you will be helping to control the animal overpopulation problem by cutting down on unwanted litters. Secondly, there are many health benefits associated with spaying your dog and no longer having to deal with a female GSD in heat. Any potential reproductive problems your female GSD in heat could acquire down the road will be almost alleviated by this one simple act. Third, you will no longer have to deal with any of the hygenic issues of a female GSD in heat, such as the vulvular discharges, etc. If you do decide to spay your German Shepherd , this can be done during her heat cycle however it would probably be better to wait until the heat cycle is completely over to decrease the chance of any type of complications during surgery. Knowing your dog and being able to provide for her in all situations, even when your female GSD in heat is flagging everything in sight, is just one important part of being a dog owner. Sign up for promotions, news, discounts, and the chance to win prizes for you and your German Shepherd E-mail Address. For owners who are experiencing this event for the first time, it can be particularly confusing. Understanding the normal occurrence of the heat cycle is necessary if you are not sterilizing your female German Shepherd. German Shepherd Heat Cycle The heat cycle , also known as Estrus, is a four-stage cycle comprising of proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus that occurs in a female German Shepherd when she reaches puberty and begins her first menstrual period. This typically occurs at the age of four months in most German Shepherds but can vary based on factors such as nutrition, age, and environment. Various changes, including behavioral, clinical, hormonal, physiological, and cytological, can be observed during this time. How long are German Shepherds in heat? It is important for owners to be aware of when their female German Shepherds will mature and reach puberty, as well as the duration of the heat cycle, signs of puberty in a female dog, the number of estrus cycles in a year, and any normal or abnormal parameters observed during the heat cycle. Here are explanations of the events and answers to the above questions described one by one. When do German Shepherds get their period? The normal age at which a physiologically normal female German Shepherd begins her menstrual period is between 6 to 10 months of age. This age is referred to as the age of puberty. The first bleeding during the proestrus stage of the heat cycle is considered to be the onset of puberty. At this stage, a female German Shepherd is capable of reproducing and giving birth to offspring. The age or time of puberty can vary between 4 months to 2 years. A bitch that is older than 24 months and has not shown any signs of heat is considered abnormal. How often do German Shepherds go in heat? Female German Shepherds are considered nonseasonal and monoestrous, meaning they do not experience heat continuously or seasonally. The heat cycle lasts for 6 to 7 months and can vary depending on factors such as age, environment, and nutrition. As a result, a female German Shepherd typically goes through heat twice a year. This is only possible if the female German Shepherd is provided with proper nutrition, a healthy environment, and proper management. If the female experiences stress, the estrus cycle may be disrupted, resulting in variations from the normal average values. To ensure normal estrus cycles, provide a proper environment with normal healthy temperature, humidity, and well-balanced, nutritious feed. Consult your nearest veterinarian or dietitian for the formulation of a diet plan. German Shepherd in heat signs The German Shepherd will exhibit different signs when it is in heat. The following are signs of heat, which are divided as follows: Sr. All canine females go through the heat cycle once they reach a certain age. That age is based largely on their breed and size, but there is always some wiggle room here. Generally speaking, a female dog can enter estrus—the heat cycle—around six months of age to nine months, though some wait until a year or longer to begin. Since her reproductive organs have been removed, she no longer goes through the cycle. German Shepherds are large dogs. This means they are more likely to wait a bit longer to have their first heat. Some wait up to two years. Even so, you should be watching your GSD closely for signs of estrus as early as four months of age. What does all of this actually mean? When a female dog reaches sexual maturity, she will begin what is called the heat cycle. The medical term is estrus, though some people call it being in season or sometimes doggie periods. When a dog is in heat, she will be receptive to breeding, usually resulting in a litter of puppies. When a female GSD is in heat, she will give some fairly obvious signs. There are many physiological changes taking place inside her, so her systems may seem out of whack. A blood-tinged discharge may be present during estrus, and it happens to be the sign that most people notice first. Many dogs clean themselves very well during this time so there is nothing to worry about, but not all are able to keep up with this. A swollen vulva is a frequent occurrence during heat. Your dog may spend more time licking herself and cleaning this area. Nervousness or distraction are two behavioral signs of heat in German Shepherds. This is due to the surge in hormones. However, not all dogs go through this phase. Many simply take it in stride. Flagging is the act of flipping her tail to one side and presenting her vulva to male dogs in the vicinity. While generally harmless, some dogs even flag their owners. It may become a bit annoying if your dog is particularly insistent about it, but try not to punish her for this behavior. Most dogs will go into heat approximately once every six months. With all things in nature, however, there is a wide variation that is perfectly normal, too. Many larger breeds, such as Great Danes, will have delayed starts and longer periods between each heat cycle. Since German Shepherds are large dogs, you may only see one heat cycle a year. In fact, you may only see one every eighteen months or so. It Takes Practice Even though Mother Nature did a pretty good job creating the systems that keep our dogs running, there will always be room for errors and hiccups. Sometimes, it can take a year or more for your dog to get into a relatively predictable cycle. Some dogs take up to two years after the start of their first heat cycle to find their unique pattern. Older and Wiser You may have just gotten used to her heat cycle by four, five, or six years of age, then suddenly things go haywire again. Perhaps she had one cycle this year when she usually has two, or maybe it lasted a shorter time than normal. As with other mammals, the fertile period for dogs starts to decrease as she ages. The older a dog is, the less fertile she will become. This is because a German Shepherd is born with all the eggs or at least the follicles she will ever have, a bit like humans. There are differences, of course—such as canine eggs being far more immature than human eggs upon release—but the basic mechanics are the same. Those eggs will slowly lose their effectiveness and die off, even though their method of ovulation is slightly different than ours. You may have noticed a trend in this article so far—heat cycles can vary widely, and size plays a pretty big role. Some dogs, often the very tiny breeds, may be in heat for only a few days. Others can be in heat for weeks on end. Shorter heat cycles of less than a week are pretty rare though. The average heat cycle for a German Shepherd is about three weeks. As your dog ages, her cycles may shorten or lengthen. They may decide to check her hormone levels and do a physical to be sure nothing scary is happening. It is a common misconception that male dogs also go into heat. Because male German Shepherds are sexually active year-round after reaching sexual maturity, of course , they are highly attuned to any in-season females in the vicinity. When they sense a female in heat, they will begin to act strangely, becoming aggravated, agitated, and may even develop aggression. To the untrained eye—or a misinformed owner—this seems an awful lot like a heat cycle in a male dog. Removing him from the source of his frustration the smell of the female in heat will quickly return him to his normal behaviors. Thanks, Science! Another Myth Thwarted! Before we get started, please stick around until the end of the article. Your sweet little boy needs some help, too! Not for her body at least. What you can do, however, is be an emotional support human for your dog. Be Loving Even though this is a totally natural thing for dogs, it might be frightening to a young German Shepherd who has never been in heat before. It can also be upsetting and stressful to an older dog who has had a traumatic first or second heat cycle, too. Now is your chance to remind your dog how much you love her. Speak softly if she seems agitated. Be gentle and kind. Protect Your Furniture and Floor With the squishy, loving part out of the way, we should look at practicality. Heat cycles can be messy. Between the excessive urination, the bloody discharge, and the antsy chewing, your house could end up a huge mess. These are basically dog diapers. They are designed to catch the discharge and may even save your rug from a urination accident. Dog diapers come in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices. There are disposables available, but if you care about the environment, look into washable fabric diapers or period garments. A word of warning: Do not use dog diapers as a birth control method. They do not stop hormone-driven dogs from mating. This involves keeping your in-heat GSD in a room with a tile or linoleum floor. Keep in mind that estrus discharge can smell quite strongly. Trust us on this one. Most dogs will clean up after themselves, but only their own bodies. A Crate is a Cave If you crate trained your dog when she was a puppy, her crate might be a good option. Be sure to wash her bedding thoroughly after each visit to the crate. If you thought estrus blood on your tile smelled bad, just wait until you get a whiff of it after three days on her dog bed. Intact females can be a bit aggressive toward one another. This is especially true of those in heat. Do not bring her to the dog park or leave her unattended in your yard. The Leash is the Way Even in your own yard, keep your German Shepherd on a leash when she is in heat. If you must take her outside for any reason, even in your fenced yard, put the leash on. As mentioned earlier, every male dog in the neighborhood and even from outside the neighborhood will be chewing through your fence, digging under it, or hopping over it to get to your GSD. You might try to play a new game or even just repeat an old favorite. Spend extra time with her and you will both benefit from the attention. This is especially true for new dog owners or those who have never experienced a heat cycle before with a previous pet. While there, your veterinarian will examine your dog. Chances are good that everything will be perfectly fine. This is the perfect time to ask all your questions and to get some support. You should walk away feeling much more capable of handling the next few weeks. You now know that male dogs do not go into heat. How can you help your male dog survive a heat cycle? Her smell may have clung to her owner out for a walk alone, for example. Regardless, if there is a female in heat somewhere within walking distance, your male dog is going to know it… and so will you. Distance Keep your male German Shepherd indoors if you know there is a dog in heat nearby. It may not seem fair, but either is creating a bunch of unexpected puppies. If your male dog is showing signs of sniffing out a female in heat, keep him locked up inside, on a leash when outside, and under your careful supervision at all times. Male dogs can become incredibly aggressive when a female is in heat. Some people have luck with menthol products dabbed on windowsills or door frames. Other people have tried strong-smelling, natural products such as mint or sour apple. Every dog is different, so try a few things to try to hide that smell. The goal is to make the house heat-proof, not your dog. Important note: Before you use any essential oils around your dog, make sure that you are prepared to do it in a safe manner. We have an excellent post linked for you below that will take all of the guesswork out of it and make sure that your dog stays safe. Is Aromatherapy Bad for Dogs? How to Safely Use It Leave It may not be feasible for all situations, but if you can manage it, leave the area with your dog. Think of it as a vacation with your good boy. Distraction You may not always know where the female in heat is located, nor can you get away. In these cases, you still need to keep your male dog locked up. But try to keep him occupied with fun distractions. Games, toys, treats, and lots of time with you should help some. Doggy Daycare and Boarding If all else fails, you can enroll your male dog in a doggy daycare or boarding session. Most daycares and boarders do not allow females in heat, so your dog will be safe and happy playing with other dogs while the air clears around your home. There are some male dogs that become completely loony when they sense a female in heat. Sometimes, there is no other option but asking your vet for help. Some vets may have suggestions before trying medications for calming your dog, too. It never hurts to ask. And at the very least, they can prescribe a medication to help keep your buddy calm and serene until the storm of estrus passes. How Is That Fair? When you own a German Shepherd, their needs should always come before your own. In this case, your male GSD is suffering, frustrated, and may even become aggressive if you choose to do nothing. You could end up with unwanted puppies at your door in a few months, a big vet bill for a c-section, or even worse, a hospital bill when your dog bites someone in his frenzy to get to the female in heat. The bottom line is that your pride and entitlement mean squat when it comes to keeping your male German Shepherd safe, happy, and healthy. Give him the love and care he needs. Final Thoughts When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, it can be a time of stress, mess, and frustration for everyone. If you prepare yourself and your household right now, you can handle the weeks ahead without a hitch. And if you have a male dog who senses a female in heat, you can make it through this, too. It takes a little know-how, ingenuity, and willingness on your part. Male or female, your GSD will make it through this heat cycle—and any in the future—happy and healthy because of the steps you took today to prepare. I knew I needed to learn more about owning a female dog. So, if I decide not to spay her, then how often will she come into heat. After owning my first female German Shepherd. I was not sure when she would have her first heat. After doing some research this is what I discovered. Normally female German Shepherd will have their first heat cycle 6 months to 12 months of age. My second female German Shepherd Connie had her first heat cycle when she was 9 months, depending on each individual German Shepherd it could be different. Female German Shepherd will have their heat cycle twice a year. It normally runs every six months. If you are worried then, I would recommend talking with your veterinarian about It. You want to be sure your girl is healthy. How long does a female german shepherd stay in heat? When I decided to breed my female German Shepherd Val. Being a new GSD owner, I was curious too how long she will be in heat, and how long the full heat cycle would last. This is what I learned. The average heat cycle stages about 21 days and total, depending on each individual German Shepherd it could be different. How long do German shepherds in heat bleed for? My female Princess I will tell you this. But most of the time you will see bleeding will last 9 days, but I have witnessed up to 14 days with my female princess. Now, this is just my experience with my own dogs. German Shepherd mating age and Information: How old does a German shepherd need to be to breed? When I bred my first female German Shepherd, I did not breed her before she had her third season. After talking to the Breeder that I purchased my dog from, he told me to wait until your dog has had her fourth season before you breed her, but she should be three years old or older before she is bred. How long is the pregnancy of a German shepherd? With my own experience after breeding multiple German Shepherd litters. Most good breeders will get to confirm locks together with the female and the male. The normal gestation period in dogs is approximately 64 days from conception, although this can vary by several days from the time of the second mating. When should I get my german shepherd spayed? Spay or Neuter German Shepherds: There are many different opinions on this topic. As a new German Shepherd owner, we all have some questions. After talking to different German Shepherd owners, Some veterinarian says 6 months to 12 months, and others will say wait until they are two years. When I, ask my breed this question? My professional breeder told me not to spay or neuter at all. If you do decide wait until after 24 months because all German Shepherds Will fully start to develop at 24 months of age and up to 36 months before they are fully mature. Now I know different German Shepherd owners that have male German Shepherds that did neuter them after 2 years old, and they do not have any problems with them at all, and the same for females owners I have talked with too. My female dogs are not spayed, and my male dog is not neutered. How long does it take for a German Shepherd dog to recover from being neutered? My Male Buddy This is a very popular question for new dog owners. The average time it takes a dog to recover from being neutered, is 7 to 10 days. In the time of that 7 to 10 days. You need to keep your puppy or older dog calm. No jumping overexercising. Just leash walking is recommended only until your dog is fully recovered. How much does it cost to spay a female German Shepherd dog? Typically costs can vary: Some people choose to use their local veterinarian and others choose to use a low-cost Clinic. I know my veterinarian charges to .The cost to do a more complicated surgery can usually range from and up to on the higher end. Whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck! About the author: Dennis is the founder of German Shepherd Behavior. I have owned this breed for over 25 years and looking forward to sharing my German Shepherd journey with you. If anything, that part of the heat cycle is the tip of the iceberg! Proestrus stage The first stage of a heat cycle is known as the proestrus stage. This can last anywhere between days, with most dogs averaging about a week. The signs of a dog entering her proestrus stage are: Bloody discharge Your dog will spend a lot more time licking herself than usual. Keep an eye out for this, and look for any telltale signs of bloody discharge on your floor, bedding, or pillows. The discharge will usually look like a bright red color, but most of the time your dog will be cleaning it away. As soon as you notice your dog licking herself and when you see bloody discharge, this is when the heat cycle has begun. For your peace of mind and to have a general idea of how long her heat cycle will be, mark this in your calendar. Enlarged vulva The quickest way to tell if your dog has entered her heat cycle is to look at the size of her vulva. If her vulva looks swollen and larger than usual, this is a clear sign of the heat cycle beginning. In some cases, her teats might swell and her lower abdomen might darken in color. Also — frequent urination is a common symptom during this stage. Tail tucking The proestrus stage is where the dog will feel most insecure about herself. Your dog will begin to tuck her tail around her behind, wrapping it close to her vulva. This is because she is not yet ready for male suitors who might be taking a fancy to her as they smell her from across the park. Change in behavior The dog will be feeling very sorry for herself at this point. She will become clingy, quiet, confused, nervous, or aloof. Estrus stage This stage is when the actual heat cycle properly begins. Most people will refer to this part as the only stage of the heat cycle, but it is equally important to be aware of the first, third, and fourth stages to prepare yourself for the estrus stage. The estrus stage typically lasts between days and indicates that your dog is fertile and ready to procreate. The common signs of this stage include: Change in discharge color The bloody discharge in the proestrus stage will turn to a straw-colored, or even clear, discharge. The change in discharge color usually occurs around the ninth day of the cycle. Instead, it will return to its regular position. However, in most cases, her tail might turn slightly upright. This is usually an indication of playfulness and, in dog terms, flirting. After all, her tail is no longer shielding her vulva. She will get very creative during this stage. The dog is fully aware of the scent that she is leaving for male suitors, and her heightened senses can smell her potential lovers from a mile off almost. She will become suddenly very interested in male dogs, which is why it is essential to keep an eye on her during this time. Your dog might still have a loss of appetite or may lose her appetite at this stage. It winds them up, and some male dogs can be more prone to biting when they have been wound up this much. Make sure to plan the breeding stage properly so the cough deed is done in a safe and controlled environment. Diestrus stage After all the excitement of the estrus stage, she will enter a day period called the diestrus stage. She will sort of return to similar symptoms of the proestrus stage at this point, where the straw-colored discharge will turn red once again, and she will tuck her tail around her vulva. She will still carry the scent of the heat, so keep an eye out for male suitors. Her fertility window is over, move on! Anestrus stage The final stage indicates when the heat cycle is, at last, over. This is called the anestrus stage, and generally lasts between days until she will enter the proestrus stage again. So, how long does the heat cycle last? The main stage of the heat cycle, as in when she is fertile and ready to mate, usually lasts around days. However, the entire cycle lasts up to 6 months. It all varies from dog to dog. Small dogs are more likely to go into heat twice a year, while large breeds like German Shepherds might only go into heat once a year. This is completely normal and purely due to the size of the animal. We know how important it is to understand how the heat cycle works and how to care for your pooch during this time. Here is the ultimate care guide to German Shepherds in heat! Unlike a human menstrual cycle that lasts between days, a dog will be in heat for around weeks. The whole cycle itself is a long and drawn-out process that only occurs twice a year. In most cases, a female dog can enter her first heat cycle at months old. Some might even be a year old before they are first in heat. It mostly depends on the size of the dog, as some will inevitably be much larger than others. They will enter their first heat cycle when they reach sexual maturity. When a dog has been spayed, her reproductive organs have been removed, so she can no longer reproduce, which stops the heat cycle forever. What about German Shepherds in heat? Like every other female unspayed dog, German Shepherds will all go through their heat cycle. The only difference is that due to their size, this large breed is likely to have to wait a bit longer for their first heat cycle to arrive. It is always recommended to keep an eye on your female German Shepherd for signs of the estrus cycle from when she reaches 4 months old. This is purely due to the size of the dog and is nothing to worry about. Mother Nature works in weird ways. Especially as German Shepherds are such large dogs, the time between cycles is mostly unpredictable. Some dogs might have a streak of cycles over a couple of years that are very regular, like clockwork. Others will go into heat randomly. Generally speaking, your dog will develop some sort of regularity with her heat cycles when she is around 4 or 5 years old. What happens when my dog gets old? She will go in and out of the heat for the rest of her life. The only difference is, that any form of regularity with previous heat cycles will go out of the window. Forget everything you thought you knew about how long each cycle lasts. After around 6 years, your German Shepherd is likely to have shorter heat cycles. This is especially the case if she has been pregnant before. As with all mammals, female dogs will become less fertile as they age. Can male German Shepherds go into heat? Male German Shepherds do not have a uterus, therefore they cannot physically go into heat. Instead, they are sexually active and ready to go all year round. Alright for some. This is purely because they can smell her cycle in a way that we cannot, and it causes them to want to mate and breed. They will go through some behavioral changes — especially if they live with a female unspayed dog — such as cheekiness, agitation, or even aggression. These are big and strong dogs, after all. This is why a lot of German Shepherd owners will opt to spay their female if they own both a male and a female dog. This scent can linger, and German Shepherds are notorious for their heightened and impeccable senses. Once the male dog can no longer smell the heat, he will immediately go back to his usual self. The next step is taking the necessary precautions to take care of your German Shepherd while she is in heat. Let Mother Nature do her thing Fortunately for you, you mostly just have to leave your dog to do whatever she needs to do. From the moment she has her first heat cycle, her natural instincts will set in immediately. It might seem a bit inhumane, especially if you have a uterus yourself, and you can empathize with the potential discomfort your dog is going through. During her heat cycle, a female dog will become increasingly clingy and overly affectionate. This is because her estrogen levels are rising, and she might be feeling some discomfort from the bloody discharge. The best thing you can do for your German Shepherd who is in heat is to give her all the love in the world. Some dogs might be aloof and dismissive, which is totally understandable. But for those who cling to their humans, you have to comfort her along this journey. This is especially the case for dogs who are going through their first heat cycle at a young age. Speak only with a gentle voice to let her know that nothing is wrong. You should expect to see bloody discharge on your floor, cushions, bedding, and clothes for the next couple of weeks. Instead, there are some ways to prevent stains from appearing. The easiest way to protect your furniture is to place old towels everywhere. The same goes for her dog bedding or if she likes to sleep in your bed. For extra protection, look to invest in some reusable dog period pants. These are basically washable fabrics that can catch bloody discharge similar to human diapers or sanitary towels. Not only will it protect your furniture and belongings from bloodstains, but the period pants can act as a diaper for excessive urination. While there are disposable dog period pants available, we recommend buying reusable washable ones for the benefit of the environment. When your dog enters the estrus stage and is ready to mate, she will simply find a way to rip the period pants off her body. Nothing will stop her! However, when your female German Shepherd is in heat, it is wise to keep her on a leash at all times. Remember, nothing will stop both male and female dogs from attempting to mate when she is in her heat cycle. German Shepherds might not be small dogs that can squeeze through fences, but they can certainly fight their way through to get what they want. Isolate the dog If your dog is no longer clingy and affectionate, and instead is more interested in mating with males, you might want to consider isolating her in another room. This might seem cruel, but keeping her away from other dogs is the best way to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Keeping her separate from other dogs during this time is a good idea. You can keep her in a crate overnight if you want to control where she bleeds while you are asleep. However, make sure to only keep her in this crate at night, otherwise, she might think you are punishing her. The vet will be able to reassure you that her heat cycle is totally normal, and will probably give you tips on how to deal with it. They can also discuss the option of spaying in the future if you are tired of dealing with her heat cycle. Spaying is a surgical procedure that involves removing the reproductive organs from the dog, which means she will no longer be able to have puppies or go into heat. This is a common procedure that vets are experts in, and saves dog owners from a lot of future stresses and anxieties about unwanted pregnancies. If you have a male dog, you might want to read this section to get an idea of how to deal with him as his mating instincts are on high alert. Keep him away This seems obvious, but try to keep your male German Shepherd away from dogs in heat. This means that you should look to separate your male and female dogs in different rooms. These are large breeds, which means that it can be hard to pull them apart when they are attempting to mate. Also — remember to never disrupt the dogs while they are locked! Leave them alone. Not only will keeping your male dog away prevent unwanted pregnancies, but male dogs can get aggressive when they know a female is in heat. They can become very protective over the female and will often growl, snarl, bark, or bite at other potential male suitors. In the same way as a female dog, you can always keep your male dog in a crate overnight. Just make sure not to put them in the crate sporadically during the day, as they might think they are being punished for something they cannot control. Go to the vet Each dog will react differently to a female in heat, so you can always take both him and your questions to the vet. This is a good idea if your dog acts aggressively when a female is in heat. Your vet will tell you to distance the dog, and they might even give you some herbal remedies to distract the dog from smelling the scent of the heat. Some herbal tinctures are designed to sedate dogs, which will calm down their aggression. Distract him You have to try and keep your male dog preoccupied when he is near a dog in heat. This means that you should put him on a leash if a fellow dog owner says that their dog is in heat, or you can throw him a ball to distract him. The same goes for if you have a male and female dog in your home. This is especially important during the proestrus stage. Some friends or family might be able to take care of your male dog for a couple of weeks, which means you can still visit him frequently. Conclusion So, there you have it! The ultimate guide to caring for a German Shepherd in heat. Most of the time, you just have to allow Mother Nature to do her thing as your dog deals with it naturally. Still, there are some great ways to make her heat cycle easier for everyone involved — including the female dog in question, male dogs, and humans. Hopefully, this guide has given you some peace of mind as your pooch enters her next heat cycle! Vulva begins to swell and your dog begins to bleed. Bleeding may reduce or stop. Your dog is ready to mate during this time. About 2 months Previous symptoms are gone and the body is preparing for the next heat cycle. About 4 months Stage 1: Proestrus is the first stage that most owners start noticing the vulva begins to swell and your dog begins to bleed. This stage lasts for an average of 9 days, but can range anywhere from days. Stage 2: Estrus is the stage when the female is receptive to the male. The vulva is enlarged but softens a little. This stage will last for 5 to 10 days. The fertile period occurs during this time. Stage 3: Destrus is the stage where the female is no longer receptive to the male. This stage lasts for about 2 months. Stage 4: Anestrus is the stage where the body allows the uterus to prepare for the next heat cycle. This stage will last for about 4 months. Each stage has differing signs related to behavior, physical or clinical changes, hormonal changes, physiologic changes, and cytologic vaginal smear changes. When does an intact female German Shepherd start her first heat cycle? German Shepherds are large dogs. This means they are more likely to wait a bit longer to have their first heat. Female German Shepherds might go into their first heat as young as 6 to 12 months of age. The smaller the breed the earlier they get into their first heat. How long does the first heat cycle last in German Shepherds? Heat usually lasts between weeks. Early in the cycle, a female dog may not be receptive to male dogs, although some are receptive through the entire cycle. How long does a German Shepherd bleed in the first heat? A dog in heat can bleed for the first 7 to 10 days. The bleeding reduces around the day mark. How often does a female German Shepherd go into heat? An intact female dog usually goes into heat about every six months. Younger and older dogs tend to have a more irregular heat cycle. Many larger breeds, such as Great Danes , will have delayed starts and longer periods between each heat cycle. Since German Shepherds are large dogs, you may only see one heat cycle a year. How do you know if a female dog is in heat? Sometimes, these signs are not apparent even when a dog is in heat. Her vulva will be swollen and noticeably red. You may also see her licking its genital area as a result. They will have a very short heat then stop. And a month or so later there will be another short one. How will female dogs behave differently if she goes into heat? Change in appetite: Your dog may suddenly become pickier in its eating habits. Licking of her genital area: Your dog might be licking her genital area more to clean up any discharge. Rubbing her rear end : Your female might lift her tail to rub her rear end against various objects, such as a wall or fencing. Lack of energy: Some dogs become less energetic as they go into heat. If your dog seems unusually tired, or not as interested in playing with you, it could be a sign they are beginning their heat cycle. More Irritable with other dogs: As their hormone levels change, you might see your dog become less tolerant of other dogs or even cats in the house. Sometimes might see aggressive behaviors toward both female and male dogs. Desire to escape and seek a mate: The hormone change will drive her to follow her instincts in seeking out a male to mate with. She might even try to escape your home or yard to check out what options are nearby. Flirtatious behavior: Once a female dog enters the estrus phase of her cycle, she is receptive to the attention of male dogs and might seek it out. She might start to present her rear and flag her tail to one side when around male dogs. Create a safe space for your dog to rest With all the hormonal changes, she might want to seek out a quiet place to be alone. You can make this area comfortable by including a mat which can be especially useful for thick or long-coated dogs. Playing soft music may comfort your dog. Plugging in a pheromone diffuser like this one by Adaptil near their safe space may help her to calm down. Of course, have plenty of interactive dog toys and chews for her. You can purchase disposable dog diapers or invest in a washable cloth diaper to use with disposable liners. You can place a disposable dog maxi pad inside of the diaper during heavier flow to reduce the frequency of laundering the cloth diaper. Manage dog-dog interactions in your home If you have a multi-dog household, you might notice a shift in dynamics between your dogs. Your female dog in heat might be on the grumpy side and overreact when approached by a dog housemate. Supervise interactions between your dogs to make sure that they are being respectful of each other. Use baby gates to provide separate safe areas for each of them. If you have an intact male in the home, they should always be kept separate from a female in heat to prevent mating. Even when kept separate, your intact male will become stressed as they can still smell a female in season and might go to great lengths in efforts to get to her. Even if your male dog is neutered, he might still pester your female dog — supervise and separate as needed. Stay away from dog park and keep your female dog on a leash when going outside Female dogs approaching their heat cycle can attract both neutered and intact dogs close and far. This can cause her undue stress as she seeks to avoid attention from other dogs. It might also trigger a fight between other dogs as they compete for her attention. Your best bet is to keep your intact female dog in a closed yard. And if you have to take her outside, always put her on a leash to prevent accidental mating and unplanned pregnancy. Climbing over or digging under a fence is worth the effort for them as they follow their instincts to mate. Bottom line: Be extra kind and gentle When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, it can be a time of stress, restlessness, and frustration for her as well as everyone including other animals in the house. If you prepare yourself and your household, and know how to take care of your dog, you will know exactly what to do to make it through. Never scold your pup if she happens to make a bloody mess, just calmly reassure her while you clean it up. Make sure to watch her closely and give her some extra love and attention. More on German Shepherd Health and Care.