how to pick a good goldendoodle puppy

Above: Mini F1b, Curly. Above: Mini F1, Wavy. Coats can vary in color. A good way to predict adult color is to look at the ears of the puppy. In addition, consider the pedigree when expecting a litter. It is hard to understand the complexity of the gene pool when mating. From my experience, red is considered a dilute gene of black. When red is bred with white, black or brown, black is dominate and pups are black. Two red parents, will make red or apricot. However, to carry the true red gene is very rare. Red can often fade with maturity. Many breeders boast about having red as it is highly sought after, but it can and may fade with time. I make a good effort at trying to produce red, but it is more rare. Brown and black also produce black. Two browns will make brown. Red can be so dark red that it is considered mahogany or rust. My Sangria, F1 mini-goldendoodle female is an example of this beautiful color. I do not claim to be an expert in the study, nor do I make any guarantees on future adult color. In breeds like the cocker spaniel, the red will be apricot as a pup, but can become dark red with maturity. Spots can also widen with maturity or appear to have moved around as they broadened out. In designer breeds, the puppy can look completely different as an adult then how it did as a puppy. You may notice this at the very first haircut. As much as we love color, we need to pay more attention to the temperament of the puppy and make sure the puppy is very socialized and loved, especially during the critical stage of development up to 5 months. See my temperament testing page for more information on this. Loose and wavy: This is the most common type of coat found in a goldendoodle such as an F1. They are considered low to non-shed. They are easy to maintain. You may want to brush in the common friction areas such as behind the ears, hind quarters, and underarms. Bodily brushing about once a week. Straight: These coats are considered flat or sporty like the golden retriever. They are the easiest to maintain and need minimal brushing. They will have some shed. Curly: These coats can be easily identified with the crimping on the forehead as a pup. They are most common in F1bs. Their coats can have "loose curl" or "tight curl. Examples: Above: "Loose and wavy" as a puppy at 5 weeks old. This is an example of an F1. Left: "Curly" as a puppy. Puppy at 5 weeks old. F1b, crimping on forhead visible. Right: "Straight" at 5 months. This coat type typically can be found in F1 litters. No crimping on forehead or ears. Left: tight curl as an adult. Right: "Curly" at 10 weeks old. More squiggles on forehead than "loose and wavy" type. Notice the difference. This is an example of an F1b. This coat type is best for those that have allergies and desire lots of curl. An excellent example of a loose and wavy coat. This dog is an F1 miniature goldendoodle from Ginger and Tamale. Some of Ginger's puppies do throw the sport coat. It can be difficult to predict how the coats will turn out as adults, but we do our best to look for wavy features in the early stages. In the end, unless you have allergies, please understand they are so much more than just how they look. You get what you get and don't throw a fit! I do my best to help you pick out what you desire, but please note, I do not guarantee coat quality. Puppies are not an item I can stock on the shelf. Mother nature is in control. Many F1s will develop their wave after they go through their coat change at 5 months of age. It can take even up to 8 months to see the true coat quality. Minimal to non-shedding, hypoallergenic for Goldendoodles that are F1b and multi-gen Common in F1b and Multigen Goldendoodles. But exists in all generation types The Wavy Coat Minimal to non-shedding, mostly hypoallergenic Found in all generations of the Goldendoodle. Image source: doodlecreek. It is sometimes called the flat coat and is also common in other dog breeds like the chihuahua and the Golden Retriever. Goldendoodles that inherit the non-curly trait from their parents usually end up with a straight coat type. Since the Golden Retriever is one of the parent breeds responsible for the Goldendoodle, it is clear that a Goldendoodle with a straight coat usually inherits this coat type from the Golden Retriever parent. And it can be found mostly in Goldendoodles of the standard F1 generation. One important characteristic of a Goldendoodle with a straight coat is that they shed a lot more fur than the other 2 Goldendoodle coat types. This means Goldendoodles with straight Goldendoodle coats are not hypoallergenic as they can be bad for people suffering from dog allergies. Cut down on how often you brush your Goldendoodles fur if it is a straight coat. Regular brushing would lead to heavy shedding and more dog fur around the house. They are relatively cheap and could help you take great care of your Goldendoodle straight coat without the risk of excess shedding. Even with that, there are other benefits the curly coat adds to the Goldendoodle. An example would be the level of shedding it offers. Curly coat types are less likely to shed than the straight coat and as such are more hypoallergenic. Curly-coat Goldendoodles can be found in all generations of Goldendoodle, but the possibility of getting a Goldendoodle with a curly coat is almost half, in first-generation breeding. To get a curly coat, a Goldendoodle puppy must inherit one curly gene from each parent of the Goldendoodle. Regular brushing and general grooming are a lot easier as the puppy sheds a lot less. It is in between the curly and the straight coats and has also been classified as low to non-shedding and is therefore hypoallergenic. A Goldendoodle puppy with a wavy or shaggy coat is known to inherit one curly gene and one straight gene from both the Golden Retriever and Poodle parent genes. And this coat type can be found in all generations of the Goldendoodle. Just like the curly coat, you would need to regularly groom and brush the fur of the Goldendoodle with a wavy coat. This is to prevent the hairs from tangling up. It can be a bit difficult trying to predict the exact coat type your Goldendoodle puppy will end up with as genetics can be a little tricky, but how do you tell what coat your Goldendoodle will have? Luckily they are a few methods experienced and reputable breeders use. The more waves or crimps the puppy has, the more curly its hair would be. If the puppy has a rather smooth face with no puppy beard or hair, the chances are that it would end up with a straight or flat coat type. Again, a reputable breeder should know all these, so it is always better to ask them these questions and more before choosing the puppy for you. Goldendoodle Coat Stages From Puppy To Adulthood It is a known fact that Goldendoodles get to change their coats from puppy to adulthood, and as we just learned, there are good methods to help in figuring out what exact coat type your Goldendoodle would end up with while in its adult stage. But when do Goldendoodles lose their puppy coat? Well first off, it is worth noting that the Goldendoodle has two coat stages, the puppy coat stage and the final coat stage. The puppy coat stage lasts from age 0 to 8 months. At this stage, the puppy is born with a very soft coat that is super easy to groom and care for. As the Goldendoodle puppy matures further, it begins to grow into the final coat stage. This adult coat stage starts from 8 months and above. At this stage, the coat of the Goldendoodle becomes a lot more stiff and thick. It can be a little bit difficult to groom and care for and could be either shaggy, straight, or curly. Grooming Your Goldendoodles Caring for its Coat One thing that can be agreed upon from all three coat types of the Goldendoodle is the importance of grooming. Your Goldendoodles coat can only look and feel good when groomed properly. Depending on the exact Goldendoodle coat, how often you groom your Goldendoodle should vary. You can opt to do it yourself or hire a professional with more experience than you have. Here are some basic tips to help you. Wash your Goldendoodle at most once a month with a great quality shampoo. All Goldendoodle coat types aside, the straight coat requires regular brushing. This should be done to get rid of loose hair. The ears should be kept clean. Use an ear cleaner to get rid of the excess moisture that could build up from baths. Which Goldendoodle Coat is The Best? Now that we know all we need to know about each Goldendoodle coat type, which Goldendoodle coat is best for you? It all depends on what works best for you. If you do suffer from dog hair allergies, you can consider getting a Goldendoodle with a curly coat or a wavy coat. Another factor to look out for would be the teddy bear look. Most dog owners love the teddy bear look that Goldendoodles come in. And they are also hypoallergenic. In the end, Goldendoodles are a truly versatile breed. There you have it. All you need to know about the various Goldendoodle coat types alongside various tips on properly grooming your Goldendoodle. Do ensure to check out the website for more engaging and informative content. Related Content You May Find Interesting Mother Nature always has the final say Nature work can work in mysterious ways, and there are really no guarantees when it comes to predicting what coat types your dog will have. Even understanding whether Goldendoodles have hair or fur or whether they are hypoallergenic can be challenging. There are some subtle hints that you can follow to help guess the coat type of your new Goldendoodle. So, you cannot always go by what you see when your Goldendoodle is a puppy, as this may change as your dog ages. There are 3 different steps you can do to help you determine what coat type your Goldendoodle will have. Look at the fur around its mouth. When trying to determine the different hair coats that your Goldendoodle puppy may have, first start by looking at the hair around the muzzle and face. This will help tell you what kind of hair your dog may have. Curly coated dogs will often have lots of curls on their mustache and beard. Shaggy and wavy hair coats will have straight hair on the muzzle and have what you would think of as a beard on a dog. Goldendoodles who have straight hair will have short hair on their muzzle and no beard. Sarah Ochoa, DVM When your puppy is firstborn, and as they are growing, it can be very hard to tell what coat type your puppy may have. At first, they may all be very similar. Usually, the facial hair can clue you into what type of coat your puppy will have. Consider How your dog was Bred. Genetics plays a big factor in the hair type and hair color of all dogs. When trying to get a certain coat type for your Goldendoodle, look at their parents, and even grandparents coat types. The genes that are expressed their will help indicate what type of coat yours will have. Their offspring are Goldendoodles. These Goldendoodles can then be bred to make more Goldendoodles. Also, a Goldendoodle can be mixed with another poodle or Golden Retriever. Depending on what mix you use will cause varying differences in their hair coats. No matter what mix you can usually make three different coat types. Coat length, furnishings, and non-curl gene that results in a flat coat all depend on the poodle parent and golden retriever parent and what kind of coat genes they had. How to Breed a Goldendoodle to Get the Hair coat you want When looking for a specific coat type, you can look at how your Goldendoodle was bred. When trying to understand the breeding of a Goldendoodle, you may think that you will need to take a little lesson in genetics to help you. This is very easily explained below. By understanding these different ways of breeding, can help you understand what will cause your Goldendoodles to have a certain hair type. These are the common crosses used to make Goldendoodles. This makes an F1. These dogs tend to have wavy or curly hair. After you complete this first cross, there are many different options for producing more Goldendoodles. This may be the most popular type of Goldendoodle. This means that your dog will have a split between the traits of these two dogs. These different crosses are known as F2 or second-generation crosses. These are considered second-generation Goldendoodles or F2. These are called F1B. This is done to bring out more of the poodle traits in the Goldendoodle. If you want a Goldendoodle with a coat very similar to a poodle, this is a great breeding that you will want to look for. These dogs are also very low to non-shedding and usually allergy-free. This dog will be more like a Golden Retriever with less curly hair. Since this dog will have more of the traits of a Golden Retriever, they will also shed more. This cross is not ideal if you have pet-related allergies. This is not a very popular cross as the reasons most people buy a Goldendoodle is for the non-shedding and low allergen dog. Get An Older Goldendoodle While most people want to get their Goldendoodle when they are younger, there are many older Goldendoodles that also need a great loving home. Many breeders will offer older dogs at a discount too. This is the easiest way to get the coat type that you want since they have already lost their puppy coats and have developed the adult coat. Your Goldendoodle can be up to 8 months old before their true coat type is shown. Most Goldendoodles, you can get a good guess at around 4 months, but these pups are growing and changing that even their hair type can change. Most of these dogs will have their adult hair coat between 6 to 8 months, and then you can for sure be able to tell what type of adult coat your dog will have. Most people get their dogs around 8 to 12 weeks, sometimes before then. While the coat type that they have then will be very close to what their hair will look like as an adult, it can always change as they grow. What are the different types of Coats that My Goldendoodle may have? Your Golden doodle can have 3 different coat type or any mixture of the three. Some dogs can actually have all 3 coat types. These are a description of the 3 common coat types seen in Goldendoodles: Shaggy or wavy hair Shaggy or Wavy coat is the most common hair type, and most popular hair type wanted in Goldendoodles. This coat is a mixture of the two parents. The curly Poodle mixed with a straight Golden Retriever makes a soft wavy or shaggy appearance in Goldendoodle puppies. This hair type is known as a teddy bear coat since they resemble a teddy bear. This hair type will require regular brushing to keep them clean and tangle-free. The great thing about this hair coat is that it is usually little to no shedding making it great for people who have pet allergies. These dogs are usually groomed, so they always resemble a teddy bear. This can take some time and patients for your dog to learn to tolerate their grooming. Curly Hair Tight curly hair is very similar to the curly coats of Poodles. Multigenerational goldendoodles are more likely to have this coat. It is closest to non shedding. Some poodles will have curls that are very tight and close to the skin, but some will have loose barrel ringlets. If your Goldendoodle puppy has curls they will need regular grooming to keep them from becoming matted and their hair from taking over. Some pet owners will have their Goldendoodle trimmed short to help avoid matting. This hair type is the second most popular but is very popular with people who have pet allergies. This hair sheds the least and is the most hypoallergenic of the three coat types. Many people who never could have a dog because of their allergies have found it possible to have Goldendoodles with curly coats. Curly Goldendoodles are the most sought after, but they take multiple goldendoodle generations to achieve. If shedding matters to you, choose a reputable breeder. Hypoallergenic Goldendoodles are developed with extensive commitment to breeding dogs, including DNA testing, monitoring what genes each litter is liekly to inherit, and looking for just the right curly coats to breed to produce the curl people want without sacrificing temperament. This hair type is probably the easiest coat to maintain and is a great choice for people who have very little time for the daily brushing the other two types require. The downside to the straight coat is that they will shed. They are also not able to achieve the famous teddy bear look. The teddy bear look is the reason that most of the dogs are sought after. Although many people consider it an improper coat, the short coat with eyebrows can be very cute, and while there may be more dander, there will also be fewer knots. The one thing that makes these dogs look very different than the other two hair types is that these coats usually do not grow a beard around their muzzle. They will have a muzzle very similar to Goldens. Mixed Hair Types Some Goldendoodles can even have a mixed hair type. They may have tight curls around their face and long feathered hair on their legs. Their bodies or ears may have wavy hair. They often have a wavy or shaggy coat overall. These types can require lots of upkeep, as each section will need a different type of grooming to keep them looking great. On the other hand, these three coat types and the variations can create wavy or shaggy coats that are very cute. The smooth face paired with a curly coat collar is a lot of fun. Most people think that this is very easy to determine that their dog will be the same color that they are when they are born. As your puppy is growing and hair type possibly changing, so can their coat color. Your chocolate Goldendoodle puppy may fade to a Parchment color as they get older. There are many different colors that your Goldendoodle may come in. These are the 10 different colors seen in Goldendoodles: Chalk white. Coat Comparisons Post updated I have had many inquires from families wondering what coat type the puppies will have as they mature. When dealing with a Hybrid it is very difficult to predict with certainty what their Adult coat will eventuality end up like. Puppies go through multiple coat changes before their adult coat finally comes in. All newborn goldendoodle puppies look like Golden Retrievers. It is not until around 6 — 7 weeks when we can determine if it will be a Flat Coat goldendoodle — no facial furnishings. We have produced flat coats with both straight hair and with some curls. Below are some of our previous puppies. There are three pictures of each puppy. Notice the progression of the puppy: the first picture is newborn, the next picture is puppy at eight weeks old and the last picture the puppy as an adult. My puppies are lucky to have joined such wonderful, loving families. It makes my day when I get an email from one of our previous puppy families giving me an update and sharing pics of their dog. Thank you! They are fluffy all over including the face. They come in three types — Straight, Wavy, and Curly. Grooming requirements are brushing daily to prevent matting and a trip to the groomers every eight weeks or so.

Not just because of the matching hair, but because of their widespread popularity. These gorgeous canines are family dogs that are not difficult to train. They are great with children and never let go of their inner-puppy behavior. Golden Retrievers are intelligent, loving, and eager to please. They are known for their lustrous, golden coat after which they got the name—Golden Retriever. Their popularity is well-earned as they are handsome dogs with excellent temperaments. Remember that all the information you read is based on our thorough research, as well as the genuine and overwhelming love we have toward these canines. Golden Retrievers require proper nutrition that can support their energy and zest for life. Short History on Golden Retrievers Historically, these pups were bred as hunting dogs. They originated in Scotland in the s as a mixture of Spaniels, the Irish, and the Newfoundland setter. The Golden Retriever is a vigorous, medium-sized pooch, able to handle rainy climate and rugged terrain. They come from the Scottish Highlands, where their main task was to retrieve birds for the Scottish estate owners, from both the water and the land. Those owners searched for more than just practicality in their canines. They wanted to find good-looking dogs with lots of energy and above-average intelligence. The hunting of wildfowl mastered their skills of searching and sniffing. Their strong sense of smell has made them great rescue dogs. The retrievers we have and love today are descendants of these hard-working beauties. The Golden Personality and Appearance Although they look similar, these pups come in three different shades—golden, dark-golden, and light-golden. A typical Golden canine has a tapered muzzle and dropped ears. These medium-large gun dogs are great fans of exercise and outdoor activities. The Golden Retriever thrives on playing and exercising with their owners. Patience and a fun approach are the keys to their training. These Golden beauties are not difficult to train, and they are considered obedient dogs. It seems that their favorite hobby is chewing. Kill their boredom by spending time with your lovely pooch. As for their nutrition, the best you can do is follow expert nutrition advice we are about to present to you. We try hard to find verified data on all dog-related subjects. To help you find the best dog food for your Golden Retriever, we sought help and assistance from reliable sources. Five veterinarians Dog lovers community Our experience Five veterinarians shared their medical knowledge on this beautiful breed. These experts also warned us of a few health issues that the Golden Retrievers are prone to. Dog lovers community shared their personal stories on raising these gold-buds. They recommended several food products that they have been using for a long time with positive outcomes. As dog owners ourselves, we know how important it is to see your pup thrive and eat food that meets all their nutritional needs. How We Chose Our Top Picks We compiled a list of the best dog food products for Golden Retrievers on the market with the help of our vets and dog lovers community. We had several mandatory requirements while testing these products. They needed to: List specific meat sources as the leading ingredient Avoid the presence of meat or vegetable by-products, as well as grain Remember that our results are not biased. According to our research and honest opinion, these formulas will be highly useful for your pooch. This means you are entirely in charge of their nutrition, as well as its quality. However, extra meals pose a significant threat to their joins in the future. In the first three months, your Golden puppy should get three meals a day. After that, feed them two meals a day until the rest of their lives. As for the amount of food they should eat daily, take a look at the table below. The Best Food for Golden Retrievers: Nutrition and Diet Tips Learn why good nutrition is so important for your dog as well as what you should look for and avoid when selecting the best food for a Golden Retriever. Learn why good nutrition is so important for your dog as well as what you should look for and avoid when selecting the best food for a Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is one of the most lovable, loyal, and fun-loving dogs. It's no wonder this breed is so popular! If you're the proud owner of a Golden, you want to keep them as healthy and happy as possible for as long as possible. And one of the best ways to do that is through proper nutrition. Take a stroll through the dog food aisle at your local pet store or supermarket, or scroll the products on sites like Amazon and Chewy, and you'll easily be overwhelmed by the amount of choices you'll see. There are all sorts of different brands — Blue Buffalo, Purina Pro Plan, and countless others — not to mention grain-free diets, diets made for different types and sizes of dogs, and foods made for puppies or senior dogs. How do you know what to choose? Read on as we learn why good nutrition is so important for your pet as well as what you should look for and avoid when selecting your dog's kibble. Then, you'll be able to decide on the best food for your Golden Retriever. Dogs have specific nutritional needs, like any animal. They need precise amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy. A balanced diet is, to put it simply, key for a healthy life. Golden Retrievers need good food to: Grow properly: Nutrition is essential for proper growth, particularly during puppyhood but throughout life. Protein, in particular, builds your dog's muscles and tissues to help your dog grow healthy and strong. Maintain a healthy immune system: Your dog's immune system uses nutrients to fight off diseases and purge the body of toxins and free radicals harmful particles that cause cell damage. Provide energy: Protein and carbs provide your dog's body with the energy necessary for daily life. Whether you have a Golden Retriever puppy with a high activity level or an older Golden who prefers to lounge most of the day, their sole energy source comes from their food. Keep the coat healthy: Food that contains the proper amounts of antioxidants and nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids makes for healthy skin and fur. A good diet keeps your dog's coat shiny and the skin properly moisturized. Try Native Pet's Omega Oil to give your dog's coat an additional boost of nutrients! Maintain healthy weight: Quality dog food keeps your dog at a healthy weight by giving them the right amounts of nutrients without excess calories or unhealthy fat. Since obesity can result in everything from heart trouble and breathing problems to poor joint health and diabetes, it's wise to avoid it before it takes hold. How do you know if the kibble you're holding is the best food for your Golden Retriever? Here's what to look for when selecting a high-quality diet for your pet: Wholesome, Natural Ingredients Natural ingredients are always better than artificial ones. Artificial additives and meat byproducts have no nutritional value for your dog. Look for real chicken or chicken meal, beef or beef meal, etc. Meat meal is simply a dehydrated or ground version of the original meat and is safe for your dog and provides healthy protein. When it comes to non-meat ingredients like veggies, look for sweet potatoes , carrots , brown rice , and other "real" ingredients that you recognize. Try to steer clear of corn, soy, or wheat, which don't provide as much nutritional value. You might even see healthy fruits included in some dog food formulas, like blueberries , which provide healthy nutrients like antioxidants and amino acids. Quality Animal Protein Sources The phrase "meat by-product" refers to a meat substance made from internal organs, hooves, and other parts of the body that your dog really doesn't need to ingest. Try to avoid these, and opt for real meat or meat meal instead. There are foods made with chicken and chicken meal, fish and fish meal, beef and beef meal.Watch out for the phrase "by-product meal," which you might see on some dog food packaging. This is still a meat by-product. Products with this designation can complete your dog's diet with no additional supplements or additions. So, it's a good idea to look for these phrases on dog food packaging. Try Native Pet's probiotic powder to create a thriving environment for healthy flora in the gut. This can help regulate your dog's bowel movements and promote digestion. If you'd like to support your dog's bladder function, our Bladder Chicken Chews are a great choice. They help build defense against frequent UTIs and can help with long-term urinary tract health. Formulas for Size and Age Adult Golden Retrievers are considered large breed dogs, which means they need large-breed formulas. Large-breed formulas are made with the specific nutritional requirements of bigger canines in mind, like a lower caloric density to match their slower metabolisms and added nutrients like glucosamine to aid in joint health, for example. The food is also made in larger pieces. Large, deep-chested breeds like the Golden Retriever are at a risk for a dangerous condition called bloat when they eat too fast. Large dogs tend to gulp down large amounts of small kibble at once, which increases the risk of bloat, while larger pieces force them to take their time when eating. Larger pieces mean your dog gets the same nutritional value in a smaller portion size, reducing the risk of bloat. If you have a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure to feed them puppy food. Later, around eight weeks of age, they can start to transition to dry dog food, ideally a large-breed puppy formula. You may remember hearing about grain-free dog foods in the news recently. Back in , the FDA announced it was studying the possible connection between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , a serious heart health issue. It seems that dogs eating grain-free food are correlated with a higher risk of developing DCM, although the FDA has not issued an official statement confirming this to date. A grain-free diet is not necessarily healthier than diets that include grain, so there's no reason your adult dog needs to eat grain-free food unless they're allergic or sensitive to grains. Talk with your veterinarian to find out whether or not a grain-free diet is a good choice for your pet. What's the Best Food for a Golden Retriever? Image credit: aryaandsamwell The best dog food for your Golden Retriever might not be the same one that works for another Golden Retriever. It all depends on factors like your dog's age, weight, current health, allergies, specific nutritional needs, and others. However, generally speaking, the best food for a Golden Retriever contains natural, high-quality ingredients, uses real meat or a meat meal as the main protein source, is labeled as nutritionally balanced or complete, and is formulated for your pooch's age and size. Avoid things like meat by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, fillers like corn and soy, and unnatural preservatives if at all possible. If your veterinarian confirms that your dog has an allergy to a certain ingredient, you'll obviously want to avoid it — some dogs that are sensitive to gluten may need to eat grain-free food, for example. You should always contact your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist if you're unsure what the best food for your Golden Retriever might be. With expert advise, you can rest assured your dog is getting the very best pet food option for their needs. To read more about your dog's health, nutrition, and wellness needs, visit the Native Pet blog. Read more. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But there are so many choices. The pet food industry has exploded in recent years. Remember though that, if you intend to switch your dog to a new diet, do so over the course of seven to 10 days to help avoid intestinal upsets or diarrhea. Types of Foods The main types of commercial foods are dry, moist, dehydrated, and fresh. As a large-breed dog, it would take a lot of moist food to properly feed a golden. Why Do the Ingredients of a Food Matter? Of course, your golden is a highly intelligent and sociable dog. Unfortunately, goldens have a higher-than-average incidence of cancer. But AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles consist only of minimum values for all the nutrients required by dogs and maximum values for just a few nutrients that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts. But, even with such regulation, not all foods are created equal. Feeding a food with low-quality ingredients may contribute to chronic inflammation and obesity. And chronic inflammation can contribute to arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and infection. Foods should be made from wholesome, natural ingredients with no fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. They should be rich in high-quality animal sources such as poultry, meat, and fish. Our beloved goldens are one of the breeds most likely to become obese. If your dog becomes obese, you can even ask your vet about prescription weight-loss diets. There are certain requirements foods should meet. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that adult dogs require a minimum of 18 percent of protein in their diets, whereas puppies require at least 22 percent protein. A good food should contain healthy meats and fats. They should also contain fruits and vegetables. And, of course, the proper mix of vitamins and minerals for optimal health. Natural preservatives such as tocopherols vitamin E , vitamin C, or rosemary extract should be used rather than artificial ones. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements than small breeds do. They grow more quickly than breeds who are small or medium-sized as adults. Golden retriever puppies have a greater risk of developing a crippling form of hip disease if fed a diet that contains too much calcium. Adult goldens can be fed any high-quality kibble or a kibble specifically for large breed dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA , large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than their smaller counterparts and can be considered seniors when five or six years old. The veterinary community has also been compiling and analyzing data on diet-related DCM in dogs. DCM is a disease in which the heart muscle weakens, leading to the loss of the ability to contract normally and pump blood through the body. Symptoms of DCM can include weakness, lethargy, shortness of breath, fainting, and the inability of exercise. It can become life-threatening. The link between grain-free foods and DCM is still being investigated, as there are many variables to be considered. Note that some dogs are allergic to certain grains and may need to avoid them. But this is best decided by a veterinarian, especially a board-certified nutritionist. Diseases which impact goldens, such as inflammatory bowel disease or atopic skin diseases and allergies, have a strong link to the foods they ingest. And, in determining how much to feed, the manufacturers of pet foods provide guidelines on their labels. But remember that the guidelines are just that. You can always adjust the amount of food he eats depending on his weight and health. In addition to doing your own research, you can consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to determine which food and amount would be best for your golden. But remember: there is no one perfect food for any dog. And choosing a high-quality food may also reduce his risk of health problems. What Do the Terms on the Label Mean? The labels on pet foods can be confusing. Learning what the terms mean can help you decipher which one is a higher-quality product. The terms on a label are listed in descending amounts of ingredients. So the first few listed are found in larger amounts than those at the bottom of the items listed on the label. Meat Meat is the skeletal muscle of animals as well as tissue from the heart. This may be beef, chicken, pork, lamb, or salmon. This is the animal flesh without any water extracted. Meat Meal It can include only actual meat, skin, and bone, which can be nutritious. But it can legally contain animals who were dying, diseased, deformed, or had died before slaughtering. Meat meals are the product after the excess moisture has been removed from the meat. These include lungs, kidneys, brains, bone, blood, heads, spleens, stomachs, beaks, feet, feathers, and intestines. Unfortunately, like meat meal, it can contain animals who were very sick or dead before slaughtering which need not be disclosed to the consumer. Whole Meats versus Named Protein Meals These are named proteins such as chicken, salmon, beef, and lamb. They can contain up to 70 percent moisture prior to cooking. Named protein meals, such as lamb meal, have that excess moisture removed being processed into kibble. So meals actually have more protein by weight than whole meats do. Fish Meal Fish meal is the clean ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings, with or without the oil extracted. Ground Corn Ground corn is the entire corn kernel ground or chopped. Corn Gluten Meal Corn gluten meal is the by-product after the manufacture of corn syrup or starch, and is the dried residue after the removal of the bran, germ, and starch. Brewers Rice Brewers rice is the small fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from larger kernels of milled rice. Brown Rice Brown rice is the unpolished rice left over after the kernels have been removed. Soybean Meal Soybean meal is a by-product of the production of soybean oil. Holistic or Natural These are terms that some companies use. But they have no meaning according to the FDA. So beware that such foods may not be what we think of as being holistic or natural. Organic This means that the food is free from antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, and preservatives. Of course, higher-quality ingredients cost more. Also avoid foods that have been overly processed or contain hormones or steroids. Meat by-products and poultry by-products are one of the lower-quality ingredients. Try to avoid them. It can also be restaurant grease. Corn and soy are generally regarded to be inferior ingredients and fillers. Remember that if you feed a high-quality food to your dog without fillers, you often can feed less. And I also considered various foods before making my selection. My dogs are doing well on this food. Goldens love their food and eat a lot because of their size. The Dog Food Advisor is a public service website designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food. The write-ups are taken from those found on the Dog Food Advisor website. The links will also lead to information regarding additional high-rated foods. The formula contains a minimum of 34 percent of named proteins. Its high-protein content helps form strong muscles. The formula includes increased amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health in larger-sized dogs. This recipe contains the preferred amount of fat and calories to help maintain a healthy weight for a dog the size of a golden. It has no meat by-products or fillers. And no corn, wheat, or soy. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Large-Breed Chicken Formula The top five ingredients are deboned salmon, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch, with a minimum of 32 percent protein. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken is a great option for those looking for higher protein and an optimal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins to help keep bones strong. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish meal and flaxseed ensure a healthy coat. An ideal blend of protein, fat and carbohydrates are also included to assist your large breed dog in keeping a healthy weight. It also has antioxidants to boost immune health and no poultry by-products. Glucosamine and chondroitin are added for healthy joints. It contains a minimum of 27 percent with named proteins. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult contains balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon, and duck. The formula also has antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables such as spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, and carrots. These are great for building a strong immune system to help fight disease. This recipe is recommended for dogs over 50 pounds and between 15 months and five years of age. It contains extra nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint care for larger-breed dogs. There are no by-products or artificial preservatives. The formula contains probiotics to support digestion. There is no gluten, wheat, corn, or soy Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large-Breed Adult Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. The food contains a minimum of 38 percent protein. The Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large Breed recipe contains added glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy hip and joint function, essential for large-breed dogs. Omega fatty acids from salmon oil help ensure a healthy skin and coat. A unique raw-infused kibble recipe is loaded with protein. The recipe has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and is gluten free. Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food The top five ingredients in this formula are chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, and soybean meal. It has a minimum protein of 26 protein percent. The formula also has live probiotics to support healthy digestion. Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend combines a hard kibble with tender, pieces of real, shredded chicken for enhanced flavor and texture. It has live probiotics to support healthy digestion as well as omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It contains no artificial colors or flavors. Although this formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. But apparently many consumers have found that their dogs are doing well on this food. Some Suggested Foods for Your Golden Retriever Puppy Of course puppies require a higher amount of protein and fat than adults generally do. But note that adult goldens who are very active, such as dogs who do agility, generally need more protein and fat than other goldens do. But they may not need as much as puppies do. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy Food The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, and salmon meal. The recipe contains a minimum of 32 percent protein. It has 14 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs and has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44percent. It also has a safe, balanced amount of calcium. Origen Puppy Large Breed Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, deboned turkey, yellowtail flounder, whole eggs, and whole atlantic mackerel. This recipe contains a minimum of 43 percent protein, 18 percent fat and 30percent estimated carbs, creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41percent. This high-quality food is more expensive than many five-star rated foods. Diamond Naturals Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and ground white rice. This budget-friendly food has a dry matter label analysis of 30 percent protein, 17 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs. It has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56 percent. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29 percent protein, 17 percent fat and 46 percent estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58 percent. This is a top-rated food that is budget conscious. Purina Pro Plan Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, and poultry by-product meal. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32 percent protein. It also contains 15 percent fat and 45 percent estimated carbs. This yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47 percent. This formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers. Purina Pro Plan is what we are currently feeding our guide dog puppies. But, as is true of the adult Pro Plan food listed above, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. Final Thoughts There are so many choices when selecting a food for your beloved golden retriever. It can really be challenging to find the right food. But remember because there are so many choices, there is no one right food for your pup. Dog food ratings can help make a choice. So can knowing the basics regarding what the terms on a food label mean. Are you thinking of switching foods? Please leave your comments in the section below. Related Article:. Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs.

WELCOME The Northern Ireland Boxer Rescue Society was formed on 12th October by a group of concerned boxer owners and breeders who were worried about the large number of boxer puppies being bred by back street breeders and puppy farmers mills with no thought or concern for the puppies they produced. Our aim is to help the welfare of the Boxer Breed - specifically those that through no fault of their own become homeless, whether this occurs due to a change in the owners circumstances or because they have been callously abused or abandoned. We compile and maintain a list of people who are prepared to take on a rescue dog and provide a secure and loving home for the rest of the boxers life. All the people on our list have been "home checked" and approved by our committee members who complete a detailed questionnaire to help us select the right home for a particular dog. Please be aware that not everyone passes a home check by us and a promise made to you by the new owner as regards spaying etc, may not actually happen. DONATIONS As with all rescue organisations, we depend on donations through car boot sales, raffle tickets and the like, to help us meet the ongoing kennel and veterinary fees. Please remember, no donation is ever too small. For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states.

They represent a fascinating gene pool. AKC allows many colors. The French also come in rare colors such as blue, lilac and Isabella. However, the main topic is their eyes, it is really amazing how specific this breed is, especially when it comes to eye color. So let's find out more about the famous blue eyes of French bulldogs. Lately, we could notice there is growing popularity of buying rare colored French bulldogs. Besides, they have unique colors of fur, they also have blue eyes. Blue eyes French bulldogs are rare, but not impossible to find due to the genes that are present in them. The presence of S-locus and M-locus gene gives rise to a wide variety of eye colors in blue French bulldogs. In most cases, it will not, unfortunately, although everyone would like it. However, an exception may occur. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. As they go through a gradual growth process over the next few weeks, you may see different shades in your puppy's eyes; shades of blue, green-gray to brown, which is their standard eye color. But don't be upset because it is natural and common at this tender age of 10 weeks. The standard brown eye color will soon materialize, without you having to worry about it at all. It is not uncommon for them to have light pink skin around their eyes and mouth. Our advice is to protect them with some sunscreen. Corneal dystrophy can also be one of the problems, which can be hereditary. Therefore, the French Bulldog would have vision problems, you will notice a change in color to a dull blue look. Nuclear sclerosis, occurs mostly in dogs over 5 years of age. It may not be painful for your dog, but it can lead to a change in his vision. Our advice is to contact a veterinarian immediately. Also the French Bulldog may have problems with Heterochromia. There are two types of heterochromia- congenital and acquired. As we have already said, our advice is to contact your veterinarian immediately, so that your dog can get the right treatment and get rid of some of the problems if possible, because usually, veterinarians do not want to "touch" if it is not painful for the dog, which is the case in most cases. Pin2 8 Shares Last week we had we had a Frenchie puppy come over to play with our own Frenchie, Claude. She is a week old French Bulldog puppy with the bluest of eyes. They are stunningly beautiful as you can see in the photos lower down the page. I remarked to her owner how blue the eyes were and asked whether they would change color at all. Do French Bulldogs eyes change color? Yes, Frenchie eyes do change color. When they are born, their eyes will initially be blue. Around 10 weeks, their eyes will then start to change color to brown. The exception to the rule is Blue Fawn Frenchies who can have blue or green eyes in adulthood. You can see a still I took from an old video of Claude below. This photo shows how blue his eyes were when he was younger. Regular readers of French Bulldog Owner will know they are now very much brown! French Bulldog blue eyes: Our Frenchie Claude had blue eyes as a puppy which eventually changed color to brown. Are French Bulldogs born with blue eyes? So, what can you expect with your own Frenchie? Well, all French Bulldog puppies are born with blue eyes. They will either be completely blue, or slightly different shades including grey, green, and brown flecks. At about 10 weeks old, the Frenchie eyes will start to change color. It will be a gradual process, and most will go through some shades of blue, green-grey, and then to the standard brown color. In this shot they look more of a grey-green color which means they are going through the change to brown. However, in certain lights they do still appear to be very blue. In most cases they will eventually turn completely brown. However, there is an exception to this rule; blue fawn French Bulldogs. This particular breed of Frenchie is very rare, being renowned for their colorings. They have a dilute gene which accounts for their coat color as well as their eyes. Some blue Frenchies will keep the blue eye gene more than other dogs. What color are French Bulldog eyes? What color eyes do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldogs have brown eyes as adults but will be born with blueish eye color. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. Why do French Bulldogs have blue eyes? There are certain eye diseases, some which are more serious than others, including: Anterior uveitis: this is a painful condition due to an inflammation inside the eye. Signs include your dog squinting, scratching, redness, discharge, or a change in color to a cloudy appearance. It can be treated, but in some very rare cases the eye will to be surgically removed. Cataracts: these can be caused by diabetes, eye damage, pests, or diet. They can be inherited, can come on quickly, or be a slow to appear. However, what you will notice is that the eyes will have changed color to a blue cloudy appearance. If not treated, cataracts can lead to blindness. You will notice a change in color to a cloudy blue appearance. You might be able to spot it early if you see a change in color to cloudy blue. There are different treatments available which will reduce the pressure, with the possibility with a complete eye removal. Nuclear sclerosis: this tends to occur in dogs once they reach the age of six. As with the other diseases listed here, it can be noticed first when the eyes change color to a cloudy blue appearance. As an age-related disease, your vet might decide not to treat it. Read this guide to health issues and what to look out for. Why are my French Bulldogs eyes red? This is something you should also look out for, as it can be a sign of a health problem. Red eyes in a Frenchie could be:. If the default eye color for most dogs is brown, why do French Bulldogs get blue eyes? However, genetics is the number one cause of blue-eyed French Bulldogs. If a Frenchie has a long history of blue eyes, they are likely to develop blue eyes. Here are the three main reasons Frenchies are likely to get blue eyes. This gene is responsible for random pigment dilution lightening of the nose, eyes, and fur. French Bulldogs without this genetic mutation are more likely to develop brown eyes. Melanin Levels Melanin levels can influence the eye color of French Bulldogs. Generally, dogs with higher melanin levels in their iris tend to have brown eyes. Conversely, a lower concentration of melanin results in lighter eye colors in dogs. Genetically, blue eyes in dogs do not mean more health issues. It is possible to have a perfectly healthy blue-eyed Frenchie. However, it is important to note that blue-eyed Frenchies may have an increased likelihood of significant health risks compared to brown-eyed Pit Bulls. Deafness Deafness, or hearing loss, is common in French Bulldogs with blue eyes. This health issue is present in certain dog breeds that carry the Merle and Piebald genes. Congenital deafness is linked to the merle gene, while the Piebald gene is responsible for spotted or multicolored coats on dogs. So, if your French Bulldog pup has blue eyes due to the merle gene or has a spotted color coat piebald gene , he may be at a higher risk of hearing loss. Affected Frenchies are at greater risk of injury, for instance, in road traffic accidents. You can rule out congenital deafness by conducting a BAER test in Frenchie puppies as young as six weeks old. Additionally, consider acquiring a collar specifically designed for deaf dogs and ensure your dog has an identification tag to promote awareness and safety for everyone in their vicinity. Blindness French Bulldogs with blue eyes may potentially develop vision defects. The presence of blue eyes in Pit Bulls can indicate that your pet carries the Merle gene, which is a dominant gene. However, it is essential to note that not all blue-eyed French Bulldogs will inevitably become blind. The likelihood of eye defects such as blindness is higher if both parents carry the Merle gene and pass it on to their offspring. This test can help identify whether your Frenchie carries the gene s for blue eyes, other genetic disorders, or complications. Given the susceptibility of eye problems in Frenchies, supplementing their diet with eye dog supplements like Zesty Paws eye supplement and using dog eye drops to provide long-lasting corneal protection and hydration can be beneficial. Lastly, French Bulldogs are prone to thickening and hardening skin on the nose, also known as nasal hyperkeratosis. Using a dog nose butter can bring relief or prevent it. Because Frenchies are susceptible to many health issues, we advise looking into pet insurance for French Bulldogs. While brown eyes in dogs derive their color from melanin, dogs with blue eyes have colorless irises that lack any pigment. The coloration of blue eyes is achieved through a similar mechanism as the blue color of water and the sky. This occurs because all the light entering the eyes of a French Bulldog is scattered back into the atmosphere, creating the optical illusion of a blue appearance. The mutation of the ALX4 gene in dogs with blue eyes seems to decrease pigment production in the eye. The lack of pigment causes the eye to appear blue. In general, the French Bulldog resembles a Bulldog in miniature, with a stocky and muscular appearance. Frenchies look active and intelligent, with a smooth coat and medium or small body structure. Males can grow between 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh 20 to 28 pounds. Female Frenchies have about the same measurements. A large and square head, with heavy wrinkles rolled above the extremely short nose, are common physical traits among French Bulldogs. They seem alert, curious, and interested at all times. Eye Color Characteristics According to the United Kennel Club breed standard for French Bulldogs, eyes in Frenchies should be dark in color, wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. In lighter-colored dogs, lighter-colored eyes are acceptable. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. Anything outside this description, including blue eyes, is considered a serious fault and not a standard. On the other hand, solid coat colors are determined by the levels of melanin. This alteration prevents the cells from producing a full-strength black pigment, resulting in various coat color shades ranging from gray, brown, tan, and everything in between. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs with brown, black, grey, and silver coat colors are probably the most difficult and rarest of all blue-eyed Frenchies. Because the melanin levels are full-on black or closer to the black pigmentation. Also, the Merle gene is less likely to be present among these color coats. Their brown eyes are due to high levels of melanin and the possible absence of the merle gene. These colors range from dark brown to light hazel, which may look greenish. You may find Frenchies with darker blue eyes, while others may have lighter blue eye coloration. The main reason for blue eyes in Frenchies can be found in M-locus and S-locus genes. Their dark eyes are due to high levels of melanin. A post shared by Zootopia Pet Sitter zootopia. As they grow, melanin increases, typically darkening their eyes. Some genetically retain blue eyes. Can French Bulldogs have Blue Eyes? Do French Bulldogs have Blue Eyes? French Bulldogs that have blue eyes into adulthood would likely have the Merle gene or, in rare cases, albinism. Do French Bulldogs Eyes stay Blue? Do French Bulldogs keep their Blue Eyes? Frenchies Blue Eyes normally would not stay blue into adulthood. Most Frenchies with Blue Eyes will start to have brown eyes as they grow older unless they carry the merle gene. Not all Blue French Bulldogs will have blue eyes as adults, but it is not uncommon for them to be a French Blue Eyed Bulldog when they grow old, with some having a bluish-green tint. How long do French Bulldogs Eyes stay Blue? Most French Bulldogs will have blue eyes until they are around 10 weeks old. Blue Eyed French Bulldog Yes and no. Blue-Eyed French Bulldog actually do not have blue eyes since their eyes do not have any pigmentation. It is just an optical illusion that makes it appear blue. On the one hand, yes, because some of them are carriers of the merle gene that can cause blue eyes. The French Bulldog Blue Eye glow meaning behind this phenomenon is because they have a light-reflecting surface between the optic nerve and the retina called the tapetum lucidum. It works like a mirror, wherein light gets reflected inside the eyes for them to easily see in the dark. French Bulldog Blue Eye glow, or red glow in some mammals, is an evolutionarily adaptive trait that allows them to be better hunters at night. Are French Bulldogs color blind? No, French Bulldogs are not color blind, but their eyes, just like most dog breeds, can only detect certain colors, such as, blue, yellow, and shades of gray. This is because they only have two color cone cells in the retina — yellow and blue, unlike us humans who have red, blue, and yellow color cone cells. Will Blue Eyed French Bulldog puppy change his eye color as he matures? Yes, Blue Eyed French Bulldog puppies will change eye color as they grow older. Typically, Frenchie puppy Blue Eyes only occurs in their first 10 to 12 weeks. French Bulldog puppy with Blue Eyes will eventually have brown eyes as they mature. This is due to increased melanin levels that a French Bulldog Blue Eyes puppy will eventually have brown or black eyes. On the one hand, the reason why a French Bulldog puppy Blue Eyes does not change is due to genetics. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Blue Eyed Frenchie genetics There are three 3 main genes that give some French Bulldogs their blue eyes. The first is the merle gene, or M-locus, which causes dilution of pigments in the eyes, nose, and fur. Second is if they carry the S-locus gene or the white spotting piebald gene that regulates pigmentation. This gene disrupts pigment production which makes some areas of the coat turn white or pink. There is no direct correlation between gender and blue eyes. The merle gene is the main reason why some Frenchies have blue eyes and the male and female percentage of this occurring is almost the same. What type of Frenchies commonly have Blue Eyes? There are four 4 types of French Bulldogs that have blue eyes. Puppy French Bulldog — All Frenchies are born with blue eyes, but they eventually turn into brown when their melanin production increases. Merle-gene carriers — This gene causes pigment dilution in the eyes. S-locus gene carriers — Carriers of this gene disrupt pigment production in some areas of the body. Albino French Bulldogs — A very rare condition wherein there is totally no pigment production in the body. Frenchie with Blue Eyes physical appearance Frenchie with Blue Eyes shares the same physical traits as most Frenchies. They are small domesticated dogs with heavy-boned and muscular body structures. The head is large and square-shaped with a deep, laid back muzzle. Eyes are round and the ears bat-shaped. Tail is short that can be straight or screwed. French Bulldog with one Blue Eye and one different colored eye: Is this rare? Some Blue Eye Frenchie will have a condition called heterochromia, where the two eyes are differently colored. This is considered rare, but does not pose a health risk to the Frenchie. However, if the color in either of the eyes changes from brown to blue when they are adults, it may be a sign that there is something wrong with their health. Various French Bulldogs with Blue Eyes French Bulldogs with Blue Eyes come in different colors, especially those that have a merle or piebald coat pattern. This is because Gray French Bulldog with Blue Eyes inherited genes from both its parents that have the recessive dilution gene. French Bulldog Gray with Blue Eyes has solid color throughout their coat with no markings. Grey French Bulldog with Blue Eyes usually has health issues upon maturing. This is because producing a Blue Eyed Gray French Bulldog is relatively difficult that requires two 2 copies of the dilution gene. Breeders also do not deliberately breed Blue Eyed Grey French Bulldog since they are prone to a host of health issues. French Bulldog White Blue Eyes also has dilution in their muzzle giving it a grayish-pink hue. Grey and white French Bulldog with Blue Eyes The coat of a Grey and white French Bulldog with Blue Eyes is predominantly white with gray piebald spotting on the face, back, shoulders, and rear end. Blue Eyed merle French Bulldog French Bulldog merle Blue Eyes has a light-colored body coat with irregular splotches of a darker color throughout the body. It is also possible to have a Merle French Bulldog with one Blue Eye, a condition called heterochromia. However, merle French Bulldog Blue Eyes can compete in other competitions, like agility and obedience courses. French Bulldog Black Blue Eyes can have white markings on the chest, face, and body. French Bulldog Black with Blue Eyes is rare and not a recognized standard color. Black Blue Eyed French Bulldog carries two 2 copies of the recessive solid black genes from both parents. Black French Bulldog puppy with Blue Eyes can either have dark brown or sapphire blue eyes as an adult. There is dilution in the noses and paw pads of a Lilac French Bulldog Blue eyes that appear brownish-pink. Cream Frenchies that has pinkish noses, lips, and paw pads can have blue eyes, while those with dark or black noses typically have dark brown eyes. Since their color is diluted, their eyes are most likely to be blue. Platinum French Bulldog Blue Eyes Platinum French Bulldog has a lustrous, cream-colored body coat with blue eyes and coat dilution in the lips and paw pads. Some Blue French Bulldog puppies Blue Eyes will retain their eye color into adulthood and some would have brown eyes. French Bulldog Blue Eyes full grown size, height, and weight Height.

Male vs. Female Golden Retriever Size This is the least subjective difference in this list. As far as where each dog falls in this range, that will depend heavily on the parents at least for height. Weight will not only depend on the dog and their parents, but also how much you feed and exercise them. Since they mature slower, male Goldens will act like puppies for longer than female Goldens. My Golden, Oliver, just turned three years old and he still acts like a wild, goofy puppy. Which leads us to the next point… Male vs. Female Golden Retriever Personalities This is probably the most subjective trait on this list. Females are more independent, dominant over other dogs, stubborn, and protective. Females are also often more caring and in tune with your emotions than males. In addition to genetics affecting their personalities, another thing that can affect their personalities is their past. We fostered a 9-year-old female Golden for a month and she was certainly more dominant and protective than our boy, but she was not independent at all. However, once your male Golden gets neutered , this will slow down a lot more on this later. Click here to download the potty training cheat sheet to make potty training much easier! They were originally bred to hunt birds back in the s, so if they barked, they would scare the birds off. However, there are a few things you should know when it comes to Goldens and barking. Males have louder, deeper barks than females because of their bigger size. In fact, Charlie, a male Golden Retriever from Australia, owns the world record for loudest bark. But on the other hand, females often bark more than males. This is due to them usually being more protective more on this later. Female Golden Retriever Humping Yes, we all know that males hump. But did you know that female Goldens hump, too? Both males and females hump because of sexual urges, displaying dominance, playing, and other reasons. Neutering or spaying will help decrease it, but expect to deal with humping no matter which gender you get. And this takes us to the next difference… Male vs. Spaying or neutering your dog is a complicated question. Your decision will depend on your dog, your lifestyle, their gender, and even your culture I know that sounds weird, but this article will explain why. Again, talk to your vet to decide when the time is right for your pup. And for reference, Labradors are the seventh smartest dog breed. This could be because they mature faster or are less mischievous, or maybe they actually tend to be smarter. But just like all of the traits in this list, it really depends on the individual dog. Female Golden Retriever Protection Although males are bigger than females and have a louder bark, females are usually more protective of their homes and their families. Let me know in the comments! So how do you get the best dog for you? Talk to the breeder. They know the puppies and the parents best and can tell you what to expect. For example, if you want a dog to do agility, dock diving, or even hunting with, then you probably want an athletic, energetic field Golden Retriever , not a stocky show Golden Retriever. You can read this article for more information about how to find a good Golden Retriever breeder. Goldens are so popular right now and the waitlists are very long, so you might have to just accept what you can get. Oliver picked my wife by crawling into her lap and the decision was made then and there. Have any questions about male vs. Let me know in the comments below! And if you liked this article, then read about English vs. American Golden Retrievers next. Related articles:. Frequently Asked Questions Male vs. As with most breeds, the males tend to be larger than the females. A fully grown male Golden Retriever can weigh anywhere between 65 and 75 pounds, while a fully grown female will top out at around 55 to 65 pounds. As expected, the two differ in height, as well. Adult male Goldens usually stand between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders. In contrast, adult females stand at around 21 and 22 inches tall at the shoulders. Aside from height and weight, there are other visible differences between male and female Golden Retrievers. Both male and female Goldens need regular brushing and grooming , but males may require more, due to their thicker coats. Male Golden Retrievers also tend to have broader heads and snouts, while females have a more narrow head and a skinnier snout. In general, females are more slender, while males tend to have a stockier appearance. Male vs. Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 2: Personality Traits and Demeanor Male and female Golden Retrievers share many of the same personality traits , like friendliness and gentle nature. Some owners report that males and females tend to have different personality traits. However, many of these reports are anecdotal, rather than proven. Some owners believe that their male Goldens tend to be far more attached to members of the family, while female Goldens are more independent. A male Golden might be more likely to stay glued at your hip, eager to please you and earn your affection. While female Goldens do get attached and want to please you, they might not be as clingy as their male counterparts. This is not to say that female Goldens are not affectionate. They just might express their affection differently than male Goldens. Some owners also report that male Goldens also tend to have more stubborn behavior than females. That is true for both male and female Goldens. Whether they are male or female, if your Golden Retrievers has a higher energy level, they may require more regular physical activity and exertion to prevent destructive behaviors or mood issues. That can be throwing a ball in the backyard or going for a daily walk around the neighborhood. In the case of male vs. All Golden Retrievers are prone to certain medical and physical conditions, including elbow dysplasia, retinal cataracts, bloat, epilepsy, aortic stenosis, Von Willebrand disease, and various types of cancer. While all Goldens are susceptible to these conditions, female Goldens come with their unique health concerns in addition to those experienced by the breed. For example, unspayed female Goldens have an increased risk of conditions like hip dysplasia. Improvements in screening and careful breeding have been lowering the rates of this condition in recent years. Females are also more likely to develop ocular myasthenia and adrenocortical insufficiency. Overall, male and female Goldens have the same life expectancy, reaching anywhere between 10 and 12 years. In some cases, both male and female Golden Retrievers can even live between 14 and 15 years. While all Goldens are highly intelligent, some puppy owners report that their female Goldens seem to pick up concepts slightly quicker than males, making them more adept at associating prompts and actions. This may lead to the assumption that females are easier to train. Goldens can often correctly respond to commands starting as young as 12 weeks old, whether they are male or female. Working with an experienced professional who can show you positive training methods can help make things like obedience training much easier, no matter whether you have a male Golden puppy or a female one. Male vs Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 6: Family Compatibility While Golden Retrievers make great family pets, there are a few things about the two genders that may make you choose one over the other for your household. Since female Goldens are sometimes reported to have calmer dispositions, they may be a nice choice for families that include children or seniors. Female Goldens are sometimes believed to be more careful and observant around small children, whereas male Goldens might be more carefree and playful. Due to their larger size, a male Golden Retriever might be able to knock children or senior adults over if they get hyper. Goldens of either gender are remarkably friendly, but this energetic spirit could cause injury to certain family members who cannot handle the size of a medium-to-large breed dog. Goldens are an ideal match for young couples who love a lot of activity. Whether you choose a male or female Golden Retriever, rest assured they will bring years of love, loyalty, and fun to your family! Exercise and Play: Regular exercise is essential to keep these energetic dogs healthy and happy, ensuring daily walks and playtime. Early Training and Socialization: Begin training early and expose your Golden Retriever to various people and situations for a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Grooming Care: Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and occasional baths. Health Maintenance: Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and preventive care are vital for their overall well-being. Living Space: Ensure you have enough room in your home and yard to accommodate their medium to large size and active lifestyle. Family Compatibility: Golden Retrievers are generally good with children and other pets , but supervise interactions to ensure safety and harmony. Financial Preparedness: Owning a dog comes with expenses, so be financially ready for their care and well-being. Safety Precautions: Puppy-proof your living space to eliminate potential hazards and provide a safe environment. Lifelong Commitment: Be prepared for a long-term commitment as Golden Retrievers typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years or more. Although golden retrievers are generally not hyperactive, females are sometimes believed to mature faster than males. This may help them to learn commands at a slightly younger age, although these differences tend to disappear as a dog gets a little older. Are male dogs friendlier than females? Male dogs are not necessarily more friendly, than female Golden Retrievers. In most cases, the differences will come from the individual personality of the puppy in question, rather than the gender. What is the difference between male dogs and female dogs? It really comes down to the individual personality of a puppy more than its gender. Can you have 2 male Golden Retrievers? Goldens are actually happier when they have companions, and while two males may fight to figure out who is the alpha between them, you could just as easily experience this same dynamic between two female Golden Retrievers or mixed genders. Do male or female dogs live longer? It has been noted that gender does not typically play a role in determining the life span of a dog, although males tend to live slightly longer on average. Spaying and neutering a dog seems to have a greater impact on the lifespan of a Golden Retriever. Is it better to get a male or female golden retriever? The answer to this question will usually come down to your personal preferences. While some dog owners report that males or females tend to have certain characteristics, in most cases, these differences stem more from the personality of an individual puppy than from their gender. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Updated: March 10th, This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here. Golden retrievers are friendly, trusting, and kind dogs that make wonderful family pets and companions. However, there are subtle differences between males and females that you should consider before bringing a puppy home. In this article, I will tell you everything there is to know about golden retriever gals and help you decide whether a female is a right choice for your family! Female Golden Retriever Appearance A fully grown golden retriever is a medium to large-size dog with an athletic build. But while both males and females have the same build and appearance, there are subtle differences between the two genders. If you compare the two, you will notice that the biggest difference between male vs. An average female is generally between .Male golden retrievers, on the other hand, generally weigh from 65 to 75 pounds and are between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Besides being smaller than their male counterparts, females are also lighter. You will notice too that female dogs have a slightly more delicate appearance and a narrower head and muzzle. The coat can be straight or wavy, and consists of a firm and resilient topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat. Male goldens have a naturally thick and prominent ruff around the neck, and heavy feathering on the front of the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Female goldens, on the other hand, have a slightly shorter coat and less pronounced mane and feathering. Golden Retriever Girl Temperament A lot of new owners ask whether there is any difference between male vs. You may have heard that male goldens are more affectionate, or that females are calmer or easier to train. There is no evidence that gender plays any role in determining the temperament and personality of any dog. As a breed, golden retrievers are people-oriented, active, intelligent, and highly trainable dogs with amazing working skills. Both male and female dogs are bred to possess the same temperamental traits, which make them a great choice for first-time owners and families with children. Still, you may come across an extremely affectionate female and others that are more independent, but the same can be said for male goldens. Ultimately, regardless of their gender, all golden retrievers are individuals that can exhibit unique personality traits. Due to this, training female puppies tends to be easier, and they generally learn commands more quickly than males. However, with positive reinforcement training and consistency, both males and females show the same level of obedience when they are adults. Are They Healthy? Overall, goldens are a generally healthy breed but are like all other purebred dogs in that they are prone to certain health problems. Female goldens are more likely to develop adrenocortical insufficiency and extraocular myositis than males. However, they are less likely to suffer from idiopathic epilepsy than male golden retrievers. Furthermore, unspayed female dogs are at higher risk of developing hip dysplasia, a uterine infection called pyometra, and mammary tumors. Golden retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. However, many can live shorter or longer depending on the level of care they receive during their lives. Female goldens have a slightly longer average lifespan of .Caring for your dog means that you will have to maintain every part of her body in pristine condition. Golden retrievers have a long, dense coat that sheds moderately all year round and goes through a heavy shed during spring and fall. You will have to brush your golden girl three or four times a week to keep her coat clean and prevent mats and tangles from forming. Goldens have floppy ears, which means that dirt and moisture easily get trapped inside, which can lead to painful ear infections.

You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. They are still prized working dogs on ranches or farms, but can fit well into active families with older kids. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies need lots of socialization, training and exercise. They require regular grooming despite their short coat, and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. However, when you give them everything they need, this mix can be an amazing companion for experience dog owners and working dog trainers too. A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd was developed with the hopes of creating the perfect herding and service dog. Because of the cold and wet European climate, the German Shepherd had to be very hardy to handle long days in often brutal conditions. At that time, it became popular with military, police, and service work. Early Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create an athletic, bold dog primarily used for hunting. This is a practice where the dog would grasp a bull, bear, or other large animal around the head. Today, Pitbulls are still very agile dogs that make excellent contestants in agility, weight pulling, and tracking tests. This mix will be tall with a medium build and a coat that will range in length from short to long, depending on their parents. They will have a relatively long muzzle, dark eyes, a long tail and pointed ears. The German Shepherd Pitbull mix is probably going to be a large dog. You can expect a German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid to grow up to 17—24 inches tall at the shoulder. If a hybrid puppy takes after its German Shepherd parent, then they may mature to between 80 and 90 pounds. When they more closely resemble their Pitbull parent, then they may reach anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Additionally, hybrids may look more like one parent than the other, or they may appear to be a lovely mix of both parents. Both breeds are commonly associated with territorial aggression and biting, both of humans and other dogs. Of course, with mixed breeds, you cannot say with much certainty how much the offspring of two purebred dogs will take after their parents. This goes for looks, health, and temperament. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies are no different. The Pitbull was first bred to fearlessly attack large animals and later to work, hunt and protect. This means that they are strong and agile enough to chase after such animals as cattle and hogs. Also, if needed, they can grasp and hold a moving animal with their powerful jaws. They can also be territorial. Furthermore, fewer Pitbulls in the study had attempted to bite their owner or a strange human than those who had attempted to or had attacked a strange dog in the past. Socialization As we mentioned earlier, proper training and socialization with other dogs and humans from an early age can help to prevent a puppy with German Shepherd lineage from developing aggressive behavior later in life. This is especially important if your dog has hypothyroidism in its genes. Additionally, both Pitbulls and German Shepherds are working breeds that are high energy. German Shepherd and Pitbull Health Your puppy has the potential to inherit the following conditions from one or both of their parents: Allergies — Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and dust cause itchy skin on the feet, belly, folds of skin, and ears. Hip dysplasia Patellar luxation — When the knee cap pops out of place while the dog is in motion. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis — Progressive nerve damage that results in weakness of the legs and sometimes blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — An inherited disorder in which deterioration of the retina leads to eventual blindness. Bladder stones —Pitbulls can inherit Hyperuricosuria. The urine is too acidic, which causes precipitation of solid masses called bladder stones or kidney stones depending on where they form. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is about 11 years. Similarly, the Pitbull typically lives between 11 and 13 years. This means that you can expect a German Shepherd Pitbull mix to live to be approximately 11 or 12 years of age. A Shepherd Pitt may mature to be a large dog with lots of energy. In addition to the energy outlet, exercise is also important for this hybrid due to the high probability of it developing hip dysplasia. As a family dog, this hybrid may not be ideal for homes with young children or other dogs. Make sure that you meet both parents. They should be relaxed and confident around strangers, if not overly friendly. Make sure the breeder also shows you evidence of clear health test certificates. Like most dogs, German Pits take a special kind of owner. They are not for apartment life but may not do well on a farm, either. You must take into account issues that affect the parent breeds such as reputation, breed-specific prejudice and regulation, exercise requirements, and unique socialization and training considerations. What are the controversies of owning a Pit Bull Terrier Mix? Although this article is not about Pit Bulls, it is difficult to mention Bully breeds without at least addressing what everyone immediately thinks. Additionally, acquiring a Pit Bull mix may significantly affect where you can live. Regardless of what side of the Pit Bull controversy you are on, owning one is becoming increasingly difficult. Restrictions have become so tight that the list of countries and US states which allow Pit Bulls is fast becoming shorter than the vast number of locations that do not. Legislatures also ban Staffies as well as anything that looks like them. Some countries go as far as to say that if your dog even resembles a Pit Bull Terrier, you must provide certified proof from an official body that she is not. Where they are not banned, Pit Bulls often face stringent requirements to go out in public, including double leashing and muzzles. Be cautious with any breed having Pitbull blood Anymore, consider carefully before acquiring a dog with Pit Bull heritage. We believe them to be sweet, docile, and loyal in the right hands, but it may not be worth the headache for you. While you may get a little leeway for a dog you have owned for several years, public and government sentiment seems intent on abolishing the breed, although we do not see that happening either. Mixed dogs are under the gun also. While the tide is shifting away from breed-specific legislation in some states, like Washington , change is slow and global attitudes are not likely to reverse anytime soon. Doberman Pinschers appear on more dangerous dog lists than German Shepherds, but poor breeding, overwhelming popularity, and insufficient training and socialization have begun to put negative attention on the GSD. As German Shepherds join the ever-growing list of dangerous dogs, more countries will begin to ban them. Mixed-breed dogs are an enigma for owners and governments. People who intentionally breed hybrids often seek to improve their characteristics, and many mixed dogs are friendlier than the breeds involved in their ancestry. However, the majority of countries deal with the problem by treating hybrids the same as the breeds that comprise their make-up. Some might feel mixed dogs warrant bans because hybrids rank high among dogs involved in biting incidents, per AAHA. However, bans may also be unfair when you consider how many dog breed combinations are possible. German Shepherd Pitbull Mixes are working dogs You may assume most dogs become badly behaved because their owners do not spend enough time with them, or they are the victims of abuse. Perhaps biting dogs are simply the result of careless backyard breeding or they remain chained to a stake all day. However, one of the most common causes of dogs acting out is a lack of exercise and mental enrichment. Working dogs, especially, require more exercise than you might even imagine, and minute walks do not cut it. Both German Shepherds and Pit bulls are working dogs and, in some cases, performance animals. Pit Bulls need 90 to minutes of exercise daily, and some working Shepherds require over two hours of activity every day. Expect your mix to require at least an hour and a half of exercise each day. You should split his exercise into a couple of sessions. Ideally, half of his activities need to be strenuous. Training can include reviewing previously learned skills and teaching new behaviors. It can also involve engaging in team activities or performance events such as agility. Exercise requires commitment and imagination on your part for numerous reasons. High activity level — Your Shepherd mix will be high-energy and very active even at the age of eight to 10 years. Intelligence — Your Pittie mix will need mental stimulation. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior and a lack of obedience. Two hours is an intense time commitment, and multiple sessions are better. Exercise is in addition to paying attention to your dog with high-quality interaction. Intelligence can pose unique challenges German Shepherds remain in high demand for their intelligence. As working dogs, they serve in a variety of capacities because of their obedience. The GSD ranks second in working intelligence according to Yummypets. The Staffordshire Terrier, and presumably the Pit Bull, rank in the mids. However, an intelligent dog does not necessarily mean training will be a cakewalk. German Shepherds can have a problem accepting authority and, in rare cases, display dominance aggression. Shepherds are large and forceful dogs, requiring a self-assured handler who can gain their respect. A self-confident owner also needs to establish order in the family household. Experience with dog ownership is beneficial with the GSD as evidenced by the many experts who report ease with training Shepherds. Pit Bulls are tenacious and can be stubborn. It makes it challenging to get their attention once they become attracted to or fixated on an object or the task at hand. However, Pit Bull Terriers also have a high willingness to please, making them moderately easy to train for someone who has plenty of patience and can offer a lot of positive reinforcement. Your mixed breed is likely to have a combination of personality qualities from the German Shepherd and Pit Bull. Expect a brilliant dog with a mild stubborn streak. Also, your dog will likely have a strong personality and thoughts about how things should go. She will require firm guidance and plenty of praise and positive motivators like treats or toys to stay on the path you choose. Moreover, the GSD has a loud bark and formidable presence, usually threatening ferociously way before attacking. Experts often discourage training guarding in dogs who already have a protective instinct, instead advising to emphasize obedience and socialization. Neglecting socialization — Some dog owners feel socialization may make their pets too friendly. Friendly guard dogs are still protective. Dogs require socialization to learn discernment, so they know not to attack unprovoked. Fail to recognize fearful dogs — Fearful German Shepherds are as likely to attack unprovoked as unsocialized dogs. Fear and shyness are present in a few lines of German Shepherds. Pit Bulls are not natural guard dogs but can be trained to do about anything. Left to her own devices, a Pit Bull is friendly and social with everyone, bred not to show aggression against people. Wrongful redirection — People retarget Pit Bulls, who are terriers, against humans, resulting in devastating attacks. Abuse or neglect — Pit Bull Terriers who lose their trust of people can react unpredictably, showing either fear or engaging in seemingly unprovoked attacks. Breeding — Founders of the major Pit Bull Clubs wrote standards prohibiting aggression against people. Breeders adhered and culled many Pit Bulls with temperament problems. However, at the same time, Pit Bull owners selected dogs for fighting prowess and aggression against other dogs. Pit Bulls are responsible for many pet and livestock deaths in the US because of lack of supervision and poor socialization combined with genetics and irresponsible breeding. Lock their jaws — Pit Bull grip in a terrier-like fashion but do not have a mechanism to lock their jaws. They are terriers, and their motivation for attacks may be more prey-driven than dogs with low predatory drives. Great Danes and Bloodhounds once had similar reputations for being bloodthirsty. A balanced blend produces a dog who is generally friendly but a good watchdog readily announcing suspicious activity. More Pitbull traits will give you an outgoing and friendly dog while more GSD will lead to a better guard dog but one who is still reasonably amicable. Exposing your puppy to numerous situations, people, and other animals are key to modifying any guard potential, fearful tendencies, and discriminatory skills. Vigilant training and socialization will help your dog become a pleasant participant in social settings and discern between what is a threat and what is not. You may not be able to eliminate the tendency for dog aggression Many Pit Bulls learn to tolerate animals and show no aggression against other dogs. We have volunteered at temperament-based dog parks where Pit Bulls were among the most common attendees with no incidents. However, some terriers are true to generations of breeding and will always be dog aggressive. Still, other Pit Bulls have high predatory drives and will chase down anything that flees from them. Enlist a professional if in doubt. Aggressive tendencies may not manifest until your dog reaches six months of age. Females often show less aggression, but neutering your pet usually helps tremendously, especially with attitudes towards other dogs. Your mixed breed may or may not have dog aggression but will likely have at least a moderate amount of prey drive. Always use caution around other animals, especially small ones like cats and those with high flight potentials like sheep and horses. How can a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix mix be an excellent pet for you? Your Shepherd Pittie will be a loyal and affectionate family member German Shepherds are devoted and affectionate. You should teach the importance of all family members because a Shepherd may show a tendency to bond strongly to one person. Although German Shepherds like to be busy, they enjoy close interactions with their owners. They may be particularly gentle and protective with children of the household. Pit Bulls are also affectionate and enjoy a close association with their owners. They tend to bond equally with all family members. Pit Bulls usually do well with children in the household, having served past roles in a babysitting capacity. Your German Shepherd Pitbull mix will want to be an integral part of the family unit. She will likely enjoy unique interactions with all household members but may pick a favorite person. She will do well with other animals she grows up with and will interact positively with your children. Always exercise caution around small children as Shepherd Pit Bulls are rather large and pretty rambunctious, particularly when young. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix are good watchdogs German Shepherds who learn proper manners are polite with strangers, but most remain aloof with all but family. Occasional Shepherds are outgoing and friendly once they get to know a guest while certain lines produce dogs with shyness. Pit Bulls are by nature people-loving and ingratiating. Their historical breeding calls for a universally people-friendly dog. You can train Pit bulls to be protective, but we recommend to leave them to their easygoing natures. If you focus solely on obedience and socialization, your crossbred dog will be civil and even cordial with your guests and yet warn you of any comings and goings with barking. Only well-socialized dogs accurately identify true threats. Beware that some German Pits inherent shyness. Most German Shepherds have a dense double coat with long or short outer hair and fleece-like underfur that needs extensive brushing. They blow their undercoat twice a year, requiring de-shedding tools and even more frequent brush outs. Minimal brushing requirements are twice weekly even though Shepherds do not typically have problems with matting. Pit Bulls have a smooth coat of one layer of short hair. They are straightforward to groom, requiring weekly brushing which will disperse skin oil through their coats, stimulate circulation, and remove light soiling. Your mixed-breed dog will most likely have short fur with a sparse undercoat that will require brushing once or twice a week. Like both her parents, she will shed moderately throughout the year. She may shed her undercoat seasonally, but it will not likely be nearly as much as a GSD. A shepherd Pitbull mix may sometimes have no undercoat at all. Your Pit Bull mix will not require clipping or stripping of her hair. The best defenses against shedding are brushing and bathing. Bathing more frequently than every six weeks can lead to dry skin. Your dog will need you to trim her nails every six to eight weeks. Make sure to check her ears regularly. It is in the GSD directives for Shutzhund that they visibly take pleasure in their work. And, of course, Pit Bulls always show unbridled enthusiasm for any activity. Your Shepherd Pittie mix will probably have boundless enthusiasm and stamina. If you or your family are active, there are numerous events you can partake in with your dog with half of the fun being in training up to them. Shutzhund — Although originally developed for German Shepherds, Shutzhund can build the character of and engage in meaningful activity any breed. Many are breed-specific, some focusing on tracking and others on protection work but most emphasizing obedience. Dogs must pass a temperament test before they can participate. Rally Obedience — An AKC-affiliated event, Rally Obedience involves you working through a course with your dog, reading designated signs, and following the instructions. Dock Diving — If your dog likes water, dock diving requires physical exertion from your dog and creates a sense of accomplishment. Lure Coursing — Originally for sighthounds , you can search for events that allow multiple breeds. Any dog with a substantial prey drive can potentially excel at lure coursing, which can consist of a lure on a string and pulley system or a mechanized plastic lure that operates remotely across a pre-ordained track. Weight Pulls — We hesitated to put this here because it seems to be as divisive as it is potentially beneficial, according to Dogtime. However, it allows your dog to expend pent-up energy in a focused manner. Weight pulling is not for everyone or every dog and requires proper training and conditioning to prevent injury. Many breeds can train to herd, and the GSD background may feature prominently in your dog. Agility — Your mix should be remarkably fast and agile. Agility requires substantially advanced training, so you and your dog learn to communicate seamlessly. Flyball — A relay event whereby your dog races over obstacles with a team of usually four dogs. Your pet must be able to associate civilly with other dogs and function socially amidst groups of excited people. Any strenuous and competitive event can lead to injuries such as strained muscles and torn ligaments, namely the anterior cruciate. Where does the German Shepherd Pitbull Mix originate? Although not widely sought, the GSD Pitbull mix is likely a common cross. Accidental mixes would be frequent in two such popular breeds, and purposeful breeding of the German Shepherd and Pit Bull probably has roots with performance-minded people. The police force would have an interest in introducing more agility from the Pit Bull and more working intelligence from the German Shepherd. Illicit uses might include people keen on a larger fighting dog or a more protective guard dog and would add GSD to their Pit Bulls for both qualities. German Shepherd Deriving most likely from generic shepherd dogs that had migrated north from Italy and east from France, the German Shepherd had its formal beginnings with a separate breed standard in .Stephanitz would develop the breed with dogs who also came from the Swabia and Wurttemberg regions, all in the southern part of Germany. Horand von Grafrath, the Original GSD, contributed the classic wolf-like look of the Shepherd as well as intensity, while dogs from the other two regions introduced stability, focus, drive, discretion, and steady temperament. The Bull and Terrier developed probably shortly after the Bulldog but came to prominence with the Animal Cruelty Act of that targeted bear- and bull-baiting. Developed for more dramatic flair in the dogfighting pits than purebred Bulldogs, Bull, and Terriers, and their descendants would fly under the radar of law enforcement battling in the pits for decades. The Walsall type, which outcrossed to Whippets to add speed and agility, represented the Pit Bull Terriers that arrived in the US in the late s. Walsall Pit Bulls led to the Colby strain of Pit Bulls which became the foundation for show and performance dogs with well-defined musculature and bulk, agility and strength, and intelligence and charm. Early Pit Bulls became generalized farm dogs, and America began a longstanding love affair with the canines in the early s, affectionately renaming the breed the American Pit Bull Terrier. However, dogfighting remained pervasive in Pit Bull culture. What are the health concerns? Your mix will likely enjoy 11 to 14 years. Both breeds suffer a troubling high incidence of hip dysplasia, and German Shepherds have specific problems as herding dogs with elbow dysplasia. Also, your dog may inherit the following health issues. The fragile ligament is vulnerable to rupture in overweight or unconditioned dogs who suddenly engage in an athletic endeavor like catching a frisbee. Degenerative myelopathy GSD and APBT — A neurologic disorder that appears at about seven or eight years of age and progresses gradually until the dog is completely paralyzed in the hind end. GDV is not hereditary, but it is common in deep-chested dogs, especially large breeds. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency GSD — The pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest food, so affected puppies fail to gain weight and may experience diarrhea. What will your German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? Still, many look strikingly different from either parent with recognizable traits of both. The German Shepherd brings to the gene pool a characteristic silhouette with a rather dome-shaped forehead, long but broad snout, upright pointed ears, a long powerful neck, sloping shoulders, a slight slant to the topline, a bushy tail, and well-angulated strong hindlimbs. Show lines have a more exaggerated slope to their backs and working dogs are more level. Most Shepherds are black and tan, sable, or black and red. German Shepherds range in size from 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 95 pounds. In most lines, females are noticeably smaller and less muscular than males. A GSD should give a bold and focused impression with a certain degree of aloofness allowable in the show ring. The German Shepherd is noble and elegant with a ground-covering elastic stride that is most efficient at the trot. Pit Bull Terriers are notably square with wide broadheads and large jowls, deep muzzle, powerful thick neck, a body length only slightly longer than height, and wide and muscular stance both in front and rear. They have either rose or semi-prick ears folded over in the center. Pit Bulls have a relatively short ropey tail and feature multiple color varieties Red. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix When given sufficient socialization training, these puppies are naturally affectionate and devoted to a fault. Both parental breeds are devoted workers. They are frequently charged with security and police work due to their high intelligence and athletic frame. German Shepherd Pitbulls require large homes with ample yard space. These puppies might become aggressive and develop behavioral issues if they are understimulated. Both are shrouded in a negative connotation, which adds to the intrigue of this crossbreed. But I believe the Shepherd Pitbull mix is more than just a terrible reputation. Knowing where the German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid originated can help us better understand them. German Shepherd History The German Shepherd may be traced back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, namely to .This dog was developed in Germany to handle and protect sheep. Captain Max Von Stephanitz, a German military officer, created the breed. He wanted a canine with a wolf-like look and a great work ethic, so he approached the military and police about the idea and partnered with them. German Shepherds are a breed that is intelligent, diligent, and extremely trainable, making them perfect for working with the military and police. GSDs are suitable for a wide range of situations, making them excellent pets in general. Pitbulls are a hybrid of Bulldogs and Terriers that were crossbred to make a brave hunting dog. They can be located in England, Scotland, and Ireland. When properly trained, a Pitbull makes an excellent pet and family member. Pitties are becoming a powerful but affectionate breed. He enjoys cuddling up with his owner and relaxing, as well as being the center of attraction and being in the company of others. The face of this breed is typically big, with a short nose and folded-over ears. They could also have a longer nose, similar to a German Shepherd, depending on which parent is the most dominant. The German Shepherd Pitbull hybrid has a large head and a short muzzle, similar to the Pitbull parent, while some may have a longer muzzle like the German Shepherd. Because of its shorter coat, it prefers warmer regions. Shedding happens all year, although only in little amounts. The German Sheppit has a strong and slender build in general. The majority of them weigh 30 to 90 pounds and stand between 17 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Many, on the other hand, can be smaller or greater. The males are slightly bigger than the females. They prefer large families. They have more people to love the bigger they are. German Shepherd Pitbulls require a large home with plenty of space to run around in. For this dog to be happy, he will need a lot of exercises. When properly socialized as puppies, German Shepherd Pitbulls are not dangerous at all and are quite friendly to strangers and other dogs. Get these puppies trained as soon as possible! They have a high level of intelligence and are easily trained. Use a reward system and positive reinforcement. Being alone for lengthy amounts of time is not something German Shepherd Pitbulls are excellent at. They become frustrated and bored without the companionship and exercise they require. When a German Shepherd Pitbull is under-exercised and neglected by their household, disruptive behaviors such as chewing and screaming are likely to emerge. Early socialization is required for the German Shepherd Pitbull. Take them for a stroll and introduce them to new humans, dogs, places, and experiences while they are still puppies. German Shepherd Pitbull Grooming The coat of this dog is normally short to medium in length and thick and dense. This crossbreed will shed a modest amount. Expect to use a vacuum cleaner frequently. The most common colors for German Sheppits are black, tan, fawn, white, and gray. The German Pit is not a good dog for persons who have dander allergies because of its mild shedding. In comparison to other breeds, the Pitbull German Shepherd has relatively low grooming requirements. Because of his short coat and moderate shedding, he requires low-to-medium upkeep. Brushing his coat can be done once a week, or three times per week if you are concerned about dog hair. Make careful to clean his ears regularly because moisture, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate in this area. To maintain his paws clean and healthy, he should get his nails trimmed every few weeks. Also, remember to bring your dog in for dental visits to avoid the possibility of dental problems. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Health This crossbreed can live for up to 12 years if he is properly cared for and leads a healthy lifestyle. Every breed is predisposed to certain health problems, thus it is critical that you, as a dog owner, should be informed of these difficulties so that you can properly care for your dog. Keep your house neat this ailment from infecting your dog. Keep a watch out for increased pesticide use at dog parks. Hip Dysplasia The German Shepherd breed is biologically sensitive to this illness, and it is very likely that it will be passed down to its children. Malformations of the hip joints characterize the condition, which can result in lameness and chronic pain. Their skin is more sensitive, and bug bites, such as ticks and fleas, can cause severe reactions. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Feeding Requirements Diet for a German Shepherd Pitbull should be designed for a medium to large breed with extremely energetic and exercise requirements. For suggestions as to what to feed your German Shepherd Pitbull and the proper portion amounts, ask your veterinarian or a professional pet nutritionist. As they progress from puppyhood to adolescence and into their senior years, their food requirements will change. Keep track of these dietary requirements. A German Shepherd Pitbull puppy needs extra attention when it comes to eating and exercising. Between the years of four and seven months, their German Shepherd parents develop at a rapid rate, putting them vulnerable to bone diseases. They thrive on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that restricts their growth. Puppies can play on grass or carpet, and inch-high jumps are acceptable. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pitbull and allowing them to gain weight can lead to joint problems and other health issues. Instead of making food readily available, limit snacks, keep them engaged and feed them regular meals. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Exercise Requirements Because the Pitbull German Shepherd mix is a lively and high-energy dog, if he becomes bored, he may become destructive. Because this breed enjoys moving around, it enjoys participating in workout activities. It is suggested that he exercise for at least 90 minutes each day. To keep your dog in excellent physical shape and to release excess energy, take him for a one-hour jog in the day and a minute stroll in the evening. You can raise your speed after that age as long as he can keep up. This breed may develop a tendency of aggressive and disruptive tendencies, including excessive barking, undesired chewing, and digging if given little exercise. Encourage and promote exercises should also be included in your daily routine to prevent boredom and improve social relationships. You can supply interactive dog toys for your pet. How to Train Your German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Unfortunately, this crossbreed is difficult to train and is not suitable for first-time dog owners. Be patient and resist the urge to give up. The GSD-Pittie cross responds strongly to positive reinforcement, and he will learn more quickly with food and recognition than with punishment. Early socialization allows him to connect more effectively with other animals and fosters a greater feeling of versatility in the dog. Socialization also helps your pet like being around your family members by resolving apprehensive and timid behavior. Although this breed is bright, he has a stubborn streak when it comes to training. Because this mix tends to bark a lot, you might want to include a regimen that will help you manage unnecessary barking. Incorporate crate and leash training into your sessions. The best method to teach a German Sheppit is to start early. The optimal time to begin is when the baby is seven weeks old. Adult dogs can still be trained, though it will be more challenging. However, their size may create a loss when dealing with younger youngsters. They may easily knock a toddler over by accident. Children should be taught how to handle and touch dogs, and any encounters between dogs and small children should always be supervised. No dog, no matter how nice, should ever be left alone with a small child. Other dogs get along well with German Shepherd Pitbulls, especially if they were reared with them. For this mixed breed, early socialization is essential. Young children, especially those under the age of eight, may play rough with dogs, tire them out, or agitate them unintentionally, causing the dogs to respond aggressively. All members of the family, including your four-legged family pets, should be trained to love and respect each other. This dog adores spending time with you and your family. It is for this reason that leaving them alone for a lengthy amount of time is not a good idea, as they struggle to cope with isolation. A German Shepherd Pitbull mix is devoted to its owner and guardian. A German Pit would get along with all family members with the proper socialization. Because of its flexibility, this magnificent hybrid is a perfect complement to any household, whether you live in apartments or a house with a gated area. When left alone for extended periods, these hybrids develop separation anxiety. Because these dogs are stubborn, they require a competent owner who is used to being a loving yet forceful alpha leader. Having noticed the inherent passion and zeal in me to care for pets, I took a step further to create a team of I and like-minded individuals to provide an informative resource in order to broaden the knowledge base of a regular pet owners. The author of this website is a passionate pet lover, and researcher. After gaining experience in raising and training various pets, I realized the need to provide answers to frequently asked questions from pet owners as well as insightful advice I've learned over the years to assist pet parents raise healthy and well-behaved pets.

Welcome to Cottonwood Labradoodles. We are a small breeder located in the heartland of America, 30 minutes north of Wichita and 2. Our mission is to raise puppies with individualized care, with a focus towards preserving the health and loving temperament of the Australian Labradoodle. We are member breeders of the ALAA Australian Labradoodle Association of America , an organization diligent in upholding the integrity of the breed and requires genetic testing of all breeding dogs. We are so excited to announce that the ALAA has awarded Cottonwood Labradoodles the Platinum Paw; the highest health standard possible for our dogs, as well as recurring investment in testing the health of our breeding dogs. All our puppies are born and raised in our home. As they mature, we take great pleasure in introducing them to romps and adventures on our five acres of woods, prairie, and pond. We assist with every delivery and therefore handle each pup from the time they are born until they are placed in your loving arms on Puppy Pickup Day. We find this individualized attention and stimulation creates dogs that are better socialized, more intelligent and physically healthier. This care and supervision of puppies is my passion! Please check in with our Cottonwood Labradoodles Facebook page to brighten your day and watch them grow. For more information, please go to our Request A Puppy page to fill out our application. Joy is a Multigen Australian Labradoodle made right here from our beloved Honey and Journey and is our up and coming Mama to be. She has a beautiful Red wavy, fleece coat. Joy has completed all her health testing to Platinum level with flying colors. Joy has completed several training classes, basic manners, obedience, and even an agility class. She has the best eye contact and loves her belly rubs! Oliver has completed all his health testing to Gold Paw level and is the perfect little gentleman weighing just 25 pounds. We are so excited to see the wonderful puppies these two will produce! We expect puppies from this mating to be small Mediums in size with wavy fleece coats in shades of cream, caramel, apricot, and possibly red and wonderful temperaments. Will confirm exact date once pups are born. We Provide We take care of our puppies and prepare them to go home with you in these ways: Three rounds of dewormer. First veterinarian visit for checkup. Final veterinarian checkup before going home. Tons of socialization and love from a family of six. List of suggestions puppy training, toys, food, veterinarian, etc. And lifetime support, should you need it. Our promise to you is simple: We provide incredible companion Bernedoodles, and we do so with integrity, forthrightness, and assistance to find the best furry family member for you. Before they become part of your household, they are part of ours, so we play with them, provide for them, and treat them as family, knowing you will do the same. Mixed breeds cannot be AKC certified, so we do not provide certification. We also believe microchipping your puppy should be your choice, so we do not microchip our puppies but strongly recommend you do. We highly recommend proper puppy training and consistent reinforcement to have the best relationship with your dog. We provide information on a partner puppy training program with lots of online videos. Bernedoodles are not sold with breeding rights. Any breeding of the Bernedoodle, whether by accident or on purpose, is a violation of the contract and will incur an immediate fee of 3x the purchase price. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms and to paying the contract violation fee in full. Bernedoodles are also sold with a list of both requirements and suggestions for the health, safety, well-being, and longevity of the dog. Customers must take these requirements, suggestions, and financial investments under consideration prior to purchasing a KC Bernedoodles puppy. Reservation Deposit Serious inquiries only. Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. Puppy reservations are made in order of cleared deposit. Keep in mind that this means if you send a check by mail, another family could move ahead in line if they pay electronically. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your needs. The customer further agrees that they have no recourse. Once the customer has decided they want to purchase a puppy, they must email us stating so. Customers must remit the deposit amount in either cash, check, or through digital deposit. We will provide the account information for the deposit. Cleared deposits are the only way to reserve a puppy; no cleared deposit means no puppy reservation. Deposits are nonrefundable. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms. Deposits are considered a commitment, and we understand that the puppy will have a home with your family. Final payment for the balance owed must be cleared before pickup. Unfortunately, we do not accept checks at the time of pick up for the final payment on a puppy because all payments must be cleared. Any daily boarding charges must also be settled prior to pick up. The only time a refund will be given is if KC Bernedoodles cancels the purchase due to unforeseen circumstances, otherwise deposits are always non-refundable. Puppy Selection Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. When the puppies are born, they are given a color-coded collar. Puppies are discussed by their collar color, though our kids have a tendency to name them as well. Exact puppy choice happens by video interactions, exchanging photos, or through phone conversations at week six so their personality has time to develop. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your individual needs. For the health of the puppies, we do not allow visitors. Exact puppy choice begins on week six. Waiting this long allows us to get to know their personalities and help guide you to make the best choice. Choosing a puppy occurs in waiting list order. To facilitate all families making timely decisions, each customer has 2 hours from when we contact you beginning on week six to choose your puppy. We make every effort to lead you through the process of choosing the best companion for your individual needs and lifestyle, so please let us know your situation and preferences. Failure to choose within that 2 hours forfeits your turn, and you will move to the end of the line. The key is to let the puppy have the time it needs with its mother and siblings, and transition the puppy to its new family as soon as it is properly able, in order to bond with them early and well. This usually happens at around 8 weeks. By pick up time your puppy will not be dependent upon its mother since it will have been weaned starting around week 4. For the health of our family and animals, we cannot take back a puppy once it has left our home, but we can help you find a new home for them. Please contact us first if the need arises to rehome your puppy. Pick up must occur in person. We currently do not ship puppies, but let us know if you have an extenuating circumstance that needs to be addressed. We love discussing our puppies but we are not a pet store, so we do not ever allow visitors. Puppies can readily catch deadly diseases, such as Parvo, kennel cough, distemper, and many others, which are easily spread from one kennel to another or one dog to another. For the safety of our own home, for the puppies awaiting their new homes, and for puppies who already have deposits on them, we cannot allow visitors. Thank you for understanding! This is not an exhaustive list. No refunds will be given and, though this is rare, we reserve the right to refuse sale of our puppies to anyone, at any time, for any reason, or no reason, based on our own judgment. KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to first pick of all litters. All decisions by KC Bernedoodles are final, as are all sales. This breeder raises the pups underfoot to ensure they are well socialized and loved by everyone. They also provide their dogs with great homes that include fenced yards or individual runs , competent owners, and plenty of love. All of their Labradoodle puppies are raised with other dogs and cats as well as kids. They are very proud of the high quality and attention to the dams, sires, and Labradoodle puppies they produce. This firm ensures that every dog under their care receives adequate care. This breeder has a clean, well-kept acre on which the puppies can run and play with the family. To ensure that each puppy gets all of the nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy dog, KC Labradoodles feeds its pups high-quality dog food. KC Labradoodles produces multigenerational mini and standard-sized labradoodle puppies. Each breeder prioritized health, temperament, training, socialization, and individuality to ensure that all their pups go to homes with families who will provide them with love and attention. You can always visit their websites to see if they have any upcoming Labradoodle litters. In that case, we encourage you to contact one of these 5 best Labradoodle breeders in Kansas. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Quality First. Not only do we health test our parent dogs, we also consider their temperament when deciding who to pair together. We will never just breed two dogs for looks. For us, ensuring that we are raising happy, healthy puppies with sound temperaments is extremely important. We pride ourselves in raising some of the best puppies around which means we are dedicated to making sure we are raising the best doodles we can! This starts with our parent dogs that we carefully select and evaluate prior to breeding. They are all health tested to ensure that we are producing top-quality family members with great temperaments. We are also fortunate to be able to raise all of our puppies in our home. We start teaching our puppies to use a potty pad at about 3 weeks old and when the weather is nice they have access to our backyard to go potty! Puppy socialization and enrichment is extremely important throughout the first few months of a puppies life. We are proud to say that our puppies get to be socialized with people of all ages and dogs of different, sizes. They also are exposed to many different enrichment items and sounds! We pride ourselves in raising well-rounded doodles that can fit into any lifestyle! Dedication to raising the best possible puppies that are ready to be a part of your family. Our puppies are handled daily, from the beginning! As they get older, they are also introduced to new textures, sights, and sounds daily. Along with this, we also do tolerance building exercises which include touching their ears, paws, tails, and petting upwards on their back like a younger child may do. Every so often we also have Aussie Mountain Doodles. February Hedgewood Trails is committed to provide the highest quality dogs that demonstrate affection, intelligence, and physical endurance. Our original focus was low shedding fur as we have a granddaughter with Cystic Fibrosis and a grandson with Dog Allergies. Both love dogs! These kids inspired us to help others like them to have a dog to love and grow up with. The breeding quality is outstanding! We love our Darby! Linda Rogers We had the best experience purchasing our two pups! Our puppies were well cared for and loved right from the start and it shows. Our puppies were trained with a clicker already and are super intelligent. Our sweet girls have fit our family beautifully and we are very grateful to Hedgewood Trails! Jasmine Knell I visited Hedgewood Trails today. All I can say is WOW. These puppies were so well behaved and well taken care of. All of them so loving and have an amazing start on training. Our next addition to our family will definitely be from Hedgewood Trails! Kayla Hopkins We picked up our baby today. She is a cuddle bug. She is a great addition to our family. Thank you Hedgewood Trails. Great meeting with you today. They let us come visit a couple times before we brought her home. Thank you! Amy Dillard Andy and Brenda are wonderful to work with! They are both so caring and passionate about their pups. They were very helpful and a wealth of knowledge. The kennel area was very clean. All of the dogs are well cared for and full of love. Top Notch breeders! If you are looking to add a Labradoodle to your family, Andy and Brenda are your people. I highly recommend Hedgewood Trails Labradoodles! Annie Debo Me — first-time dog owner with a thousand questions… HWT — a thousand answers delivered immediately with knowledge, credibility, and patience. I wanted to meet and spend a few minutes first with mom Maizie and HWT obliged — Maizie was so friendly and low key — the perfect demeanor. After that, I met dad Gunner — an absolutely regal poodle who totally changed my mind about poodles… Tall, super-healthy, active, fun to watch. Lastly, I met the pups who were as cute as they could be. I spent the next several weeks getting to know them through regular visits. Brenda and Andy were always patient with my requests to spend time with the litter, and it was reassuring getting to know Andy and Brenda through the process… super-high integrity, genuine, really serious about doing their best. For me, that counts. And after spending all that time with them, I like keeping in contact with the HWT community and the other pups in the litter. Plenty of contact after the sale makes raising my puppy easier. People ask, what kind of dog is that? I carry HWT cards with me to let people know where to learn more. Erik Renaud Awesome experience as a first time pet owner. I asked a lot of questions and they responded quickly and provided the answers and beyond. They met me at the airport to pick up my puppy and we spent some time together. Andy and Brenda are really caring people. I had more questions after we were home in NC and they were happy to answer and we have kept in touch. The Puppy Culture training that they do has made a huge difference. My puppy is such a good listener. Amy Smith. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Kansas City Kansas and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas. Our Australian Labradoodles are bred to be even more photogenic and adorable than others, which is probably why lots of our dogs have their own Instagram accounts. When you take home one of our puppies, we consider you our extended family—and we want your life together with your puppy to be long and full of fun! Perfect Family Pet What do retired couples, active outdoorsy types, and families with a lot of kids have in common? Labradoodles fit in just fine with nearly any family, whether you looking for adventure, looking for a friend, or looking for a life of peace and quiet. And one of the best things about working with Uptown is that YOU get to pick! Highest Kansas Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders uphold the highest standards, starting with our mommy dogs. We have both retirement ages and litter limits for our moms, plus we make sure they live in caring guardian homes between litters. And of course, our pups enjoy the best early life we can provide! Elite Kansas Labradoodle Genetic Lines Our Australian Labradoodle lines are truly top-of-the-line, and we work hard so that every litter is as healthy and even-tempered as the last. Besides striving to bring out the best traits in our dogs, we also focus on eliminating harmful genetic illnesses.

An 8 week old German Shepherd puppy is a bundle of antics and endless energy! Your 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy An 8 week old your puppy requires a daily routine and training to help them become the dog of your dreams. This article will not only help you understand your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy but will also explain to you why your little puppy has certain behaviors. Raising a German Shepherd puppy can feel like an overwhelming task at first! Just remember, your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is also adjusting to its new life with you. You should expect your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy to feel stressed and uncertain. They may seem timid and unsure of their surroundings. They might cry, whine, and not want your attention. Having structure and consistency will help create a bond and help you both in getting along more peacefully and calmly. Introducing A Puppy Crate Many dog owners choose to use a crate when it comes to caring for their 8-week-old puppy. While some people consider crates unnecessary, or even cruel, crate training is a useful skill to offer your dog. With the right training your pup will see its crate as their private safe space and will even go there to relax. Leaving your puppy at home unsupervised can get them and you into a heap of trouble. Crate training helps prevent your home from being a destruction zone. This useful guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy gets you on the right track to success! Crate training your puppy can: help speed up housetraining teach your dog to settle calm down offer your dog privacy But you must introduce the crate slowly and positively so your puppy builds a strong connection to the benefits of the crate. Never just shove or push your young German Shepherd into the crate without using positive training. Your new dog also needs a routine and schedule to help them through the early days with you and set the expectations you have for them. Having a schedule helps your puppy to know what to expect in their daily routines. It keeps you from losing your mind and helps ease a worried puppy. While you might work from home or have other obligations, try to follow a schedule that looks similar to this: Early morning: Take your puppy out for the first potty break of the day! So, they may need to go outside even before the sun rises. Breakfast time: Your puppy may want to go back to sleep after going outside and this is perfectly normal. On the other hand, some puppies are wide awake and ready for their breakfast. Either way, always take your puppy back outside shortly after their breakfast so they can sniff and have another potty break. Mid-morning: Puppies should eat 3 — 4 small meals a day. Mid-morning is a good time for another small meal. Afternoon: This is a good time for their lunch followed by a potty break and plenty of sniffing time to work off some of their energy. Late afternoon: Puppies need another potty break in the afternoon, and some puppies need more breaks outside. Evening: Their dinner meal and their evening potty time. Remember to let them explore outdoors in a safe area to help build their confidence. Scheduling exercise, potty breaks, and play at the same times every day helps ensure that your puppy learns their daily routine more quickly and settles in nicely. And, even young puppies can learn basic training in their first weeks with you. Try training your German Shepherd puppy at home to start with. In the beginning, you may find a few accidents in the house. But, stick with your potty training and remember to always watch your puppy to keep them from having messes in the house. When you stick to a regular potty schedule, the likelihood of potty training mishaps decreases, and you and your puppy are less stressed. Always, always, always… Supervise your puppy indoors when you are potty training. Your toughest time together with your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy might be the first few nights. Your puppy has only known the comfort of his mother and siblings before. Having your puppy sleep away from you will only scare them more. And, although they are little, their cry is loud! Having a place for them near your bed is the best way to avoid a night full of tearful cries and howling. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep in bed with me? Plus, when your puppy is an adult and tries to sleep in bed with you there will be no room for you! A full-grown German Shepherd can weigh up to pounds and will push you right out of your own sheets. Your puppy sleeps most of the day. A new puppy sleeps more often than they are awake. An 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy may sleep as many as 18 hours a day! Sleeping this much allows your puppy to have the energy they need to grow and keeps them ready to explore their new world. Feeding An 8 Week Old German Shepherd Your puppy should stay on the same food they were eating before you brought them home to keep them less stressed. This helps keeps your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy from having an upset stomach and becoming ill. Sometimes, you might want to switch them over to a different food. If you choose this route, do it slowly and in stages over a few weeks. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. Although their stomachs are small if you overfeed them they could get sick and have stomach problems. Spreading their meals out throughout the day in regular intervals is best to avoid any upsets. Look for a balanced, complete puppy food for large breed dogs. As a large breed dog, your German Shepherd you should only feed your puppy food that is specially formulated for large breed puppies. Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs that are not found in ordinary puppy food. Feeding a commercially available food that is formulated for large breed puppies helps them to grow at a sustained rate. Steady growth in a large breed puppy helps to avoid stress on their bones and gives them a strong skeletal foundation for their athletic muscles. Limiting food intake in growing German Shepherd puppies has also been associated with fewer signs of hip dysplasia. This is of extreme importance in this breed due to the high incidence of hip problems and the pain associated with this joint disorder. A growing puppy is best fed a proprietary pet food that has been specifically formulated to meet its nutritional needs. Foods that are available as dry kibble are especially suitable to rear even the youngest of puppies. Opt for this specially formulated food for large breed puppies to keep your dog growing at a healthy rate that helps them stay strong. It is a complete balanced diet so nothing is missing. Within the first few days of arriving to their new home with you is a stressful time. Your puppy has just made a drastic life change and left everything they knew to be with you. Diarrhea and other stomach issues are sometimes stress induced. You can help your puppy by keeping to a regular feeding schedule and feeding them the same food they were on before coming to you. Sometimes diarrhea is also a sign of an underlying health issue and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. If your puppy vomits blood, has bloody stools and diarrhea, becomes lethargic, or refuses to drink, call your vet immediately! To an 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping are all part of playing with their siblings. And, your puppy will most likely bite and nip you at some point too. They may even growl at you and tug at your hands or nip your ankles. This is all part of puppy play. But… It can really hurt you or make you bleed! Understanding bite inhibition means they know how to control the power of their play bites and how hard or soft they nip you. Preventing Nips and Bites If you know the right way to prevent and stop German Shepherd puppy biting, you can train your puppy to understand how to keep their razor-sharp tiny teeth from sinking into you. Instead… Offer them plenty of puppy-safe chew toys appropriate for their size. When they bite or nip you, calmly show them the toy to chew instead. Get their attention by moving the toy in a playful way around them so they begin to chase and bite the toy, instead of you or your furniture. Use these links to help you stay on the right track throughout their life. This article is designed to help you along your way. This is completely normal. Every new puppy owner has their moments of frustration and doubt. Remember that your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is going through a big life change, too. She may be feeling stressed and out of sorts when you first bring her home. Consistency and structure will go a long way toward helping both of you. Introducing The Puppy Crate A crate can be your best friend when it comes to caring for your 8-week-old puppy. While some people think of crates as cruel, the reality is that with the right training, your puppy will think of her crate as a safe, quiet space where she can go to relax. If you leave your puppy unsupervised at home, you may come back to find a whole lot of destruction. Puppies can get into all kinds of trouble on their own, with their natural curiosity and desire to chomp down on just about everything in their path. A crate can help you keep your German Shepherd puppy — and your belongings! While every puppy is different, chances are your daily schedule for the first week will look a little bit like this: Early morning: Time for the first potty break of the day! Breakfast time: You can feed your puppy breakfast right after her first potty break, or wait a little longer and let her go back to sleep first. Mid-morning: Time for another small meal, and another potty break. Afternoon: Lunchtime followed by a potty break. Late afternoon: Another potty break! Evening: Dinner, and then — you guessed it — potty time. Just before bed: One last trip outside before you turn in for the night. In between potty and mealtimes, your puppy will probably be playing or napping. Scheduling play and exercise at the same times every day can help ensure that you get that nice, quiet naptime right on schedule, too. Potty Training an 8 Week Old German Shepherd Potty training can be one of the most daunting tasks of raising a brand new puppy. It may take a bit longer than you expected for your puppy to get the hang of things! Your puppy has never been apart from her siblings and mother before. The best way to avoid a night full of mournful wailing is to let your puppy sleep in your room, at least in the beginning. Safer ways to keep your puppy comfortable and contained at night include keeping her crate beside your bed, setting up a puppy playpen, or even just using a tall cardboard box. In fact, an 8-week-old puppy can spend as many as 18 hours a day sleeping! This helps keep some element of consistency in her routine and her stomach. If you do decide to switch over to a different food after a few weeks, do so in stages. You can then increase that slowly over time. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should be fed three to four times per day. Because the German Shepherd is a large breed, you should also feed your puppy a diet formulated specifically for large breed puppies. There are many commercially available diets made to help large breed puppies grow at the right rate. This helps to avoid skeletal abnormalities like hip dysplasia. Want more information on what to feed your 8-week-old German Shepherd, and how to change her diet as she gets older? We have everything you need to know right here in our guide to feeding a German Shepherd puppy. The stress of such a drastic life change can manifest in different ways, and an upset stomach is a pretty common reaction. You can give your pup a better chance of having a settled stomach by keeping her on the food she was eating before you brought her home, and feeding on a consistent schedule. Diarrhea can also be a sign of an underlying issue besides stress, however, and severe diarrhea can be life-threatening if left untreated. Your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is likely to bite you too, for exactly the same reason. She may even growl. And it really can hurt! Your Growing Dog As your German Shepherd puppy grows, our guides will help you care for her throughout her life. Here are a few links to get you started:. Can a German Shepherd puppy start training at 8 months? How to Potty Train Your 8-week-old German Shepherd Puppy Potty training your 8-week-old German Shepherd can be stressful at first, but with a bit of persistence and patience, your puppy will learn correct behavior in no time. The potty area can be outdoors or indoors. Having a designated potty place will help your dog understand that this is the only place they should go to poop or pee. Watch Out for Signs One of the first signs is usually an increased awareness of their surroundings. You may notice that your puppy starts sniffing around more often or seems particularly interested in certain places of the house. Watch out also for changes in behavior. If your pup suddenly starts having accidents inside or seems antsy and restless, they may be trying to tell you that they need to go outside. Use Cue Words One way to help your new puppy understand what you want him to do is to use cue words. Cue words will help your German Shepherd puppy learn the connection between the words and the action. You can also use cue words when rewarding him for going in the right spot. Give Training Treats When potty training your puppy, use treats as a form of positive reinforcement. Doing this teaches your puppy that good things happen when they go outside to do their business. When choosing treats for potty training, select something small and easy to eat. This way, the puppy can eat the treat quickly and then get back to playing. It would be best if you also chose training treats that your puppy finds irresistible. Otherwise, they may not be motivated to keep trying. Puppy Crate It is an enclosure to confine your new puppy for short periods. It is also helpful in transporting puppies from one place to another. German Shepherd owners use it for crate training as they can also help with separation anxiety and boredom. Puppy crates usually have a removable tray on the bottom for easy cleaning. They also have wire, plastic, or fabric as the primary materials, and they typically come in different sizes to accommodate puppies of different ages and breeds. When buying a crate, it must be big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down but small enough so that the puppy does not have too much space to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. When used correctly, it can provide a safe, comfortable space for your new furry friend. Early Morning: Bring your Puppy Outside When your German Shepherd is a still puppy, he may have trouble holding his bladder throughout the night. If you do not let your puppy out early enough, it might create potty accidents because he cannot control their bladder. Morning: Time for a Nutritious Breakfast Puppies need a lot of nutrients to grow up healthy and strong. A nutritious breakfast helps them get the energy they need to start the day. Even though puppies spend most of their time sleeping and cuddling, puppies require several daily feedings. Place your puppy on your lap and snuggle while sleeping. It would be best if you also let them rest throughout the day. Afternoon: Lunchtime Take your puppy outside after lunch to relieve themselves. Allow your puppy time to exercise and release any built-up energy. Feeding your puppy .Between naps, you can do playtime and training activities to help release energy, encourage physical activity, and develop a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd. Evening: Last meal of the Day During the evening, feed your puppy their fourth and last meal. Afterward, take your puppy for a short stroll. Before returning, have your puppy go potty outside, then snuggle up on the sofa for some quality time. Night: Potty Break Before Bedtime Take your puppy out for one more potty time before putting him to bed. Remember that you should establish a reasonable bedtime for your puppy early on. Moreover, an 8-week-old German Shepherd may develop a better appetite for other solid meals. These include constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Diarrhea Diarrhea is a common problem that many German Shepherd puppies face. This condition has several possible causes, including dietary indiscretion, viral infections, and intestinal parasites. In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious concern and will resolve itself within a few days. However, seek veterinary care if your puppy displays other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite. Constipation A young German Shepherd is particularly susceptible to constipation due to their large, muscular build and fast metabolism. If your puppy is constipated, you may notice that he has difficulty passing stool and seems uncomfortable or restless. If your puppy is constipated, take him to the vet for treatment. The vet may give him a laxative or enema to help relieve constipation. Bloating Bloating occurs when the stomach fills with gas, causing it to swell. German Shepherds are especially prone to bloating because of their deep chests. There are several possible causes of bloating, including eating too fast, drinking too much water, and exercising immediately after eating. Stress can also be a factor. To prevent bloating, feed your German Shepherd several small meals daily instead of one large meal. It is also important to avoid exercising immediately after eating and ensure that your dog has access to fresh water. Yes, a German Shepherd puppy can start training at eight months. But remember that every puppy is different and will learn at its own pace. Consistency is key, and with patience, your puppy will get the hang of obedience training in no time. Training should be a bonding experience for you and your pup! Remember to have fun and keep it light. At eight weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy sleeps for around 18 hours daily. It may seem like a lot, but puppies need a lot of sleep to grow and develop properly. As they get older, German Shepherds will sleep for less time each day. German Shepherd puppies use their mouths to explore their surroundings and socialize with other dogs and people. In addition, puppies typically start teething around eight weeks old, which can cause them to bite more as they try to relieve the discomfort caused by their emerging teeth. Puppies also explore the world with their mouths, and biting is a way for them to learn about their environment. In addition, puppies may bite out of excitement or frustration, especially if they are not getting enough exercise. If your puppy is biting excessively, provide him with plenty of chew toys and opportunities to run and play. Also read:.

If you are not yet aware you will understand some of the differences between working lines German Shepherd and show lines. To fully understand, it is necessary to first look at an overview of the history of the German Shepherd lines. When did the German Shepherd Lines began? It was during s that breeding of dogs were standardized in Germany. The main purpose was to produce dogs in assisting the shepherds in protecting their flock from predators. Throughout this period, there was also contentions of belief about whether bred dogs should be used for display of appearance only or should be for working functions as well. Until such time when a German captain and a former student of veterinary science, Max von Stephanitz, who strongly believed in standardizing dog breeding to produce working dogs, advocated such idea. His advocacy started after watching a show and was amazed with the performance and ability of a dog, Hektor Linksrhein, and eventually after buying it, he changed its name to Horand von Grafrath who was known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Since then, the breeding of working lines German Shepherd became popular. His work became internationally acceptable and are being used until now. How did the German Shepherd Lines evolved? The results were successful when out of Horand came Schwaben and Beowulf which became the origin of the present German Shepherd work lines. In , German Shepherd Dog became more popular in America when its first exposure happened there. It was in America, where GSD shows became more famous because of this new breed. The development of the cross-breeding process of working line GSD greatly improved during the Second World War in order to help both the Axis Powers and Forces for both military and paramilitary activities. After the war, both America and Germany became highly strict in breeding and training program of the German Shepherd working lines. Presently, the breeding program of German Shepherd lines can be either for working purpose or for show or domestic purpose which will be the difference between Working Lines German Shepherd and Show Lines? To clearly distinguish these German Shepherd lines, it is better to look at their differences in purpose, physical and personality. Purpose Difference Basically, working lines German Shepherds are bred and trained to work especially in law enforcement and military functions. On the other hand, show lines German Shepherds are being raised primarily to produce well-structured and good appearing breed of GSD. These lines are actually intended for dog shows and of course to be pet dogs at home. Physical Difference Working German Shepherds have thicker and a straight body structure so they can work harder for long hours. While show lines German Shepherds are thinner with slanted back because their back legs are shorter than their legs in front. Unlike the working lines GSD, legs in back are longer than front. Working lines German Shepherds are preferred to have medium length double coat for better tolerance to differing climates. However, there are standards for show lines where color is a requirement such as strong rich colors like black, black and red, gray, black and tan, blue, or black and silver. Working line German Shepherds are preferred to be sable or black in military and police work. Sable German Shepherd Dogs are being bred by top working line German Shepherd breeders in the world with occasional black coats as well. Personality Difference Working lines GSD are more energetic and are sensitive to any fast-moving persons or animals because they assumed it to be a prey. They also use their mouth to experience the world rather than their paws. This energy is an effect of the severe training exposures they've been breed from. The training requires more special exercises that will develop its physical strength and intelligence in order to be prepared in hazardous field of work. German Shepherd Show Lines are calm and more tamed but still require cautions because they can be dangerous when improperly handled. However, their aggressiveness are usually expressed when there is situation that they need to defend themselves. Breed Types of Working and Show Lines German Shepherd For those who are planning to have a German Shepherd Dog, it is not enough that you know about their types of functions but it is also essential to be oriented about the major types of breeds of German Shepherd Lines. Below are some of the famous breed types of German Shepherd working and show lines. They have straight body structure, darker color, and big bones. They are more energetic and need to be involved in many activities for them to maintain good health. Most are trained by European working line German Shepherd breeders. West German Shepherd West German Shepherds are being bred for show purposes rather than for working functions. They are very popular when it comes to show lines GSD breed. They have a more sloped appearance compared to East German Shepherds. There is also a working line West German Shepherd which is considered to be closer to the breed of dog bred by Stephanitz. This West German Shepherd is excellent both in working tasks and even as a family pet. They are assigned to become protectors of territory and are being bred from the East German Shepherd lines. This kind of breed also undergoes intensive training to enhance health and muscle strength to be fit in military exercises. It is as well characterized by its dark color, strong nerves, intelligence and loyalty. Although both have differences in purpose, physical attributes, and personality, owners and breeders should be very careful in handling them to ensure safety whether they are at workplace or at home. Their main goal is to produce GSDs with an impressive temperament that adheres to the standard of the breed. For years, dogs from this German Shepherd breeder have been actively participating in various national and international breed shows. They also have them undergo tests to make sure they are free from degenerative myelopathy. This gives assurance that the puppies which will be born are of high quality and champion lineage. A guarantee is also given to customers upon purchase. The German Shepherds in Van Der Otto are bred to be excellent protectors for kids and families and as working dogs. This is a result of the dog experience of the founders. Since they are ex-law enforcers, they have seen the exceptional traits of a German Shepherd first-hand. During pregnancy, the females are kept in the home of Otto and are given the attention needed. Puppies are also exposed to socialization at an early age as they believe it helps in the growth and development of the dogs. Von Der Otto has two properties where puppies and dogs are brought to run freely and train. German Shepherd pups are trained to attain superb temperament to be family companions or protectors. This breeder is also involved in training shepherds for k9 sports, law enforcement, and therapeutic services. Another great thing about this breeder is that they have dedicated facilities where the dogs could freely play and train. Their acre property is solely structured to provide the dogs the space they need to enjoy and train. Training obstacles are also present in the vicinity. Different training programs were established to address the needs that vary from simple tasks to advanced training. As early as five months old, puppies can already be enrolled and trained in a special program in this breeding facility. If you are interested in purchasing a German Shepherd puppy in Jagermeister, it is highly suggested that you should make a reservation as early as possible. In addition, although their open field is spacious, they only have limited space for boarding and training programs so you should make an appointment earlier. They started with only four young German Shepherd pups which over time have grown into more than 50 litters. One of the edges that Austerlitz has been upholding to is the dedication of each member in studying and improving their breeding process. All of the breeders and trainers in their facility have at least 20 years of breeding experience with some even granted with AKC Breeder of Merit. They see puppy raising as a delicate task that must involve rigorous planning to accomplish. They even have their own puppy raising protocol which they call puppy culture! A vast amount of effort and attention is given to puppy training, health examination, emotional stability exercises, and behavioral training. From an early age, the trainers in the facility are already teaching the German Shepherd puppies basic polite communication and early toilet training. Producing excellent companion dogs with the ability to become outstanding working companions is the specialization of Austerlitz. They only breed shepherds with exclusive German bloodlines to hone their intelligence and obedience further. Some of the GSDs in their facility have proven their value by winning regional and national competitions. For years, they have been dedicated to selectively breeding healthy and fine European German Shepherd puppies. Nutritional completeness and consistency in the diet are also observed in the nutrition of the dogs. This German Shepherd breeder also makes sure to adhere to the standards in breeding German Shepherds as provided by kennel organizations. The application process is quite simple as they have an application form that is accessible on their website. Upon purchase, you will also be entitled to a lifetime return policy. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. There are still many places where you can try to search for your GSD puppy and here they are! This is the place where registered German Shepherd breeders promote themselves. You have the assurance that the puppies sold in AKC Marketplace are pure-breed and high quality. It is the parent kennel club of all German Shepherd clubs in America. A lot of registered German Shepherd breeders promote and sell puppies in the organization. You can try contacting their website or visiting the nearest club near you. Navigating through their website is easy. You can find different breeds of dogs in their listing and German Shepherd is one of them. PuppySpot — PuppySpot is another online platform that enables registered breeders to advertise their puppies. You can find a diverse listing of puppies including German Shepherds. Transporting the puppies is not a problem since PuppySpot works with licensed professional delivery companies to deliver your puppy safely. Euro Puppy — This international puppy finder website has been servicing people around the world for 20 years. Euro Puppy also ensures that all the dogs in their site have met the standard health requirements and are safely transported no matter where. The reason why German Shepherd puppies are expensive compared to other dog breeds is due to the fact that the cost of breeding and raising a German Shepherd is not a joke — especially if the breeder is reputable. Since GSDs are mainly used as working dogs and show dogs, training is imperative in raising them. After purchasing the puppy, what you need to be aware of then are the expenses for the food, health maintenance, supplies, beddings, toys, and other pet essentials. Looking for German Shepherd puppies in your area is easier than you think it is. There are a lot of reputable German Shepherd breeders across the country nowadays. Here are some ways you can do to find a German Shepherd puppy in your area: Ask for referrals from trusted and knowledgeable people. There is no arguing that veterinarians would know who among the German Shepherd breeders in your area are reputable. If you have a local vet, ask for referrals. They will definitely not sell you out. You can also try asking German Shepherd owners. More often than not, they are a member of an organization where breeders advertise. Join groups online or use social media platforms. A lot of breeders nowadays are also using social media platforms to promote their puppies. There are also dedicated groups for German Shepherd breeders and owners in different sites. Visit rescue centers. I know. There is no assurance about the lineage of the puppies in rescues. However, if you are not after the lineage and blood origin of your soon-to-be pet, you might find a treasure in rescue centers. You will not only find a companion, but you will also save a soul. Check local classifieds. If nothing worked, you could try this as your last resort. You can scan through the printed ads or posters in your area which advertise puppies. Nonetheless, always be cautious in dealing with unknown breeders as they might be involved in puppy mill breeding. Final Thoughts Ensuring that the puppy we will bring to our home is raised in a desirable environment and well-trained is essential as it will tell what kind of behavior the puppy will develop. With the top ten German Shepherd breeders on our list, finding the best German Shepherd puppy for you is now easier. If you are really determined to own one, make sure that you are emotionally and financially ready as you are not just buying a plush toy — but a creature that is alive. Just a reminder! Always be careful in dealing with suspicious breeders. Always ask for the certificates and medical history to avoid being scammed. 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. They have a long history of breeding high quality German Shepherds true to the original working type of dog. The emphasis is very much on breeding dogs of healthy and unexaggerated construction that are versatile with balanced drives. Jiri Novotny is the Czech national breed warden and a certified conformation judge. He has also completed over hundred titles with his own dogs, so sport training is very much on his agenda, as well as service training. A1K9 has a long history of importing high quality animals from the Czech Republic and our association with the Novotny family has gone from strength to strength. We are delighted to be able to offer puppies from their well-established breeding programme. Breeding and Prices The prices of our imported, Czech bred, working line, German Shepherd puppies depends on selected breeding, necessary vaccinations, pet passport and delivery to A1K9 in South Wales as well as the very important early socialisation work in the Czech Republic. Every breeding will take place with certain aims in mind and we will be able to advise whether the emphasis is towards sport, pet or service but the overall goal is to breed versatile dogs. This plays a vital part in the selection for the best family and personal protection dogs. Current pet passport regulations permit puppies from 16 weeks old to enter the UK, so discerning UK enthusiasts are able to acquire top Czech bred GSDs at a young age. The prices of our imported, Czech bred, working line, German Shepherd pups depends on selected breeding. Necessary vaccinations, pet passport and delivery to A1K9 in South Wales is included in the cost. FCI Registration Papers Every puppy will have an FCI export pedigree and you will be notified of the kennel name at the time of ordering your new personal protection dog. We may also be able to offer some young adults to police as well as service homes, however we are only limited to these. These protection dogs will be 12 months plus and have started in man work and tracking and have a good standard obedience. We may also be able to offer some young Czech working line GSD adults to Police and service homes only. For Information Call Us On. To produce the best German Shepherd litters of puppies for sale in the world! Rating: 4. They specialize in producing puppies for companionship, family or show. Temperament: Assertiveness, attentiveness, courage, highly trainable, self confidence, willingness to work on command. Characteristics: Rich black and red color Superior health Parents x-rayed and clear of elbow or hip dysplasia. Many of their dogs are imported direct from Germany from breeding stock of West German Shepherds. Pedigrees along with Progeny photographs are available to view for each puppies parents. Every puppy is home raised with socialization. Temperament that is unrivaled in the industry. Exclusive lifetime warranty for all German Shepherd puppies. Schutzhund Training: In addition to breeding some of the best German Shepherd puppies in the world, they also specialize in the sport of Schutzhund Training. Vom Ragnar German Shepherds Mission: Provide the highest quality show dogs, protection dogs, working dogs, or family companions. They offer puppies from 8 weeks old and up along with several training programs depending on your needs. Owner and operator, Natalya Babenko, is a licensed veterinarian and has loved German Shepherds since her childhood. Although she only focuses on producing a few litters each year, they are some of the healthiest dogs with the best bloodlines available. Temperament: Alertness, attentiveness, courageous, intelligent, obedient, protective, self-confident. Von der Otto German Shepherds Mission: Strive to breed only the highest quality German Shepherds in America and work hard to keep the integrity of the breed. They focus on building strong relationships with their customers to ensure the best possible outcome for the new owner and their dog. She spent years doing research on varying bloodlines along with working with police departments to find the perfect breed. They offer climate controlled shipping nationwide. Temperament: Calmness, courageous, focused, obedient, protective. We are a family-owned, professional German shepherd breeder located in beautiful Larkspur, Colorado. Our dogs in our breeding program come with clear-in-the head character, safe nature, and stable nerves. We welcome your visit to our kennels in Douglas County, Colorado. We believe in our German shepherd puppies breeding program, you should too! Our kennels in Larkspur, Colorado, we breed German Shepherd Puppies with world-class parents, top working, show line pedigrees. Confident, self-assured puppies bred for families. We are confident in our purebred German Shepherd puppies; you will be too. Click Here Working line German Shepherds Our working German Shepherds with full working titles are bred with focus and the ability to work, eagerness to learn and accomplish the given role they were originally bred for. Clear in the head, safe nature, and stable nerves to function in any environment with courage, intelligent and stability to exceed your expectations. The most sought after world-class and world champion pedigrees in the world! This is the best puppies you can get, unmatched in every aspect of the top working show line German Shepherds. Click Here Trained German shepherds Our trained puppies include potty and crate training, socialization skills within a family home environment including other animals, cats and dogs. Object orientation in building confident, self-assurd puppies with motivation to perform. Our puppies live with our families, our children, interacting daily in our homes. Click Here German Shepherds Buying an older puppy or a young adult trained German Shepherds can be risky and could end with disastrous results. We are number 1 out of 50 Top rated breeders in America!!! Rated by happydoggo. There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. We take payments only over the phone by a credit card or with quick pay Zelle. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. These phone numbers has Chicago Illinois area code. Please do not trust scammers and beware. We are the top rated German Shepherd licensed breeder located in the Northwestern suburb near Chicago, Illinois. We show and train our dogs with known World Champion trainers. We offer German Shepherd puppies for sale as well as trained adult German Shepherd dogs. Our German Shepherd puppies range from 8 weeks old to young males and females. We ship dogs within United States and Worldwide. Please contact us about pet transport information. Owned and operated since by Natalya Babenko. Not interested in award-winning show dogs? No Puppy Mills Our puppies are our babies. All of our puppies have plenty of wide open spaces to get all of the physical exercise their growing bodies need Puppy Power We work hard to match the perfect pup for you and your family. Give us your preferred puppy specifications and expectations and we will do our best to surpass them Breeding purebred West German Showline German Shepherds are our passion. If you share our passion and is looking for a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in providing the highest quality show dogs, protection dogs, working dogs, service dogs or family companions, your search just ended. You can reserve the puppy over the phone and pick up the puppy at 8 weeks old. Our Chicago kennel has several litters each year. However, we strive to breed healthy dogs with best bloodlines in mind. We breed dogs with good temperament and character. We breed to the established SV Standard. They are black and red, solid black, and red sable in color. Our dogs are raised and socialized in a home environment with children and other dogs. We are proud of our achievements! Take a look at the latest show results. Why To Choose Us.