perfect english bulldog puppy

Video: Bernedoodle Puppy Obedience Training Types Bernedoodles have been differentiated into three different types, depending upon their sizes: The Toy Bernedoodle: Those that weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, with height 10 — 14 inches. The Miniature Bernedoodle: Those with weight between 25 and 49 pounds, and height 15 — 20 inches. The Standard Bernedoodle: Those that weigh 50 pounds or more, and standing 21 inches and above. Temperament and Behavior Bernedoodles are responsive and loving. They love their family and are even good with the children. They are intelligent and social. This makes them fit to be a good family dog. However, they have a very relaxed temperament, with a moderate energy level. The dog would stay next to its owner while he is watching television, cooking, or strolling on the terrace, thus making them a great companion. Though, they are goofy and playful and are good at swimming, fetching and running, and would constantly amuse its family. Bernedoodles have a special fondness for cold weather. Care Exercise Bernedoodles need regular exercise. Because these dogs have a laid-back temperament, they do need regular exercise, but to a moderate amount, to burn down their calories for a sound health and mental fitness. Take them out for walks for 30 minutes to one hour daily. You can also utilize their fondness for running and playing by taking them out for jogging, and allowing them to play in an enclosed yard. Participate in games like throw and fetch, or allow them to swim. In short, keep them engaged in regular activities. Grooming The amount of shedding directly depends on the type of coat your dog has inherited. Those that have straighter type are prone to shed comparatively more. But they do not need frequent brushing to prevent matting. However, at times, you might want to enjoy the bonding time of brushing. You can clip your dog every months. If your dog is curly, it sheds very less or nominal. So brush it at least four to five times a week to prevent matting. Also, take them to professional grooming once in months. But begin grooming only after your puppy is done with its complete set of vaccinations by age 3 to 4 months. Its ears are hairy. So keep an eye for infections, redness or rashes. Health Problems As a very new breed, little is known about the health of the bernedoodle. No serious diseases or breed-specific issues have been reported. In fact, they are healthier than their parent breeds. But general dog health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and skin problems including hot spots, allergies, etc. Training Considering their intelligence and interactive nature, your puppies would briskly pick up all that you teach them. However, if bernedoodles not trained properly, they can easily become neurotic and hyper. Teach them the difference between right and wrong. But train them in a gentle way. So the same diet routine is okay with your dog as well. However, if you are making your own recipe, you can choose rice both white and brown as a single protein source. They are picky eaters. For a change in taste, try variations adding yogurt, boiled sweet potato or pumpkin. These are a good option. Other sources for both flavor and health, serve your dog with cottage cheese, tofu, baby food, or boiled chicken or turkey, boiled liver, boiled hamburger. They can also make good watchdogs. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. What IS a Bernedoodle? These are NOT mutts which implies a breeding between unknown breeds or not carefully planned. These are designer breeds that are bred for a specific purpose. We produce an incredible bernedoodle that displays the qualities of both our champion line Standard Poodles and the Bernese Mountain Dog pedigrees. The advantage of a carefully planned mixed breed is that you get the added advantage of a phenomenon called "hybrid vigor". This process shuffles new combinations of genes that helps to increase longevity and decrease the usual ailments that impact many purebred dogs such as various forms of inherited types of cancer not all cancers have a genetic basis such as small and large cell lymphoma which is usually a result from environmental exposure. The bernedoodles are super healthy and are not as prone to the same issues that Bernese mountain dogs and standard poodles are. As a result, you have a family member for a lot longer and that will live a vibrant and healthy life if properly cared for diet, exercise, and family integration are all important components toward helping the dog to live a long happy life with you.You can see the links above about the qualities of Standard Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs as both are extraordinary breeds in their own right and for many, purebreds of these may be a great option as well. We prefer the Bernedoodle as they get the best of both breeds, incredibly loyal, goofy, smart, playful, intelligent, and has one of the best dog personalities we have seen in a family dog. The Premier F1 Standard Bernedoodle is a low- to mostly nonshedding we use standard poodles that do not carry the improper coat alleles and Bernese mountain dogs that have thick wavy curly coats.If you want a guarantee on non shedding, then you should try to select an F1b or F1bb bernedoodle. Both look amazingly similar to the F1 standard bernedoodles but maybe a little smaller. We will produce about 2 F1b and F1bb standard bernedoodle litters per year for those wanting a more curly coat in their bernedoodles. Premier Bernedoodles love to be with the family and do not do well in enviroments of isolation. Wherever the family is, that's right where they want to be. They are stunning dogs, and you'll likely get alot of attention and people asking you what kind of dog you have. They are beautiful and along with their incredibly gentle personalities, you will have an absolutely stunning dog. They are a perfect companion dog that love to go on walks through the city or hikes in the woods or mountains or a swim at the beach. They love it all and will be at your side the entire time. They don't tend to wander away as they prefer to be with you.They equally love just hanging out with you on the couch watching your favorite movie or watching you reading a book. They really love it all as long as you're a part of it. They are so loyal to the family. Bernedoodle puppies do have energy like most puppies, and this will continue thru about years of age at which time they really mellow out. They are not nervous nor hyper but will need some off leash time where they can really stretch their legs and run. The old motto "a tired puppy is a good puppy" always prevails! Just make sure they have a lot of fresh water and a cool spot to cool off afterward. Due to the the recombination and shuffling of new genetic variations, they do show some variation in their coloration however they also all have a common morphology that tells you it's a bernedoodle. Although we do take deposits on a first come, first pick basis, we will know the puppies well, their personalities, and can help select a puppy that best fits your lifestyle and what you are looking for. We only use Standard Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs to produce our Premier Bernedoodles so that any dog we accept into our Premier Bernedoodle program have passed stringent health tests, display family oriented personalities, and exhibit the best of conformation so that our bernedoodles are absolutely beautiful. Be very cautious when purchasing a purebred or bernedoodle without doing your due diligence as the puppies will always be cute, but will exhibit the personalities of the bloodline used later in life.Therefore, use a reptutable breeder that has invested in the dogs they use for their breeding programs and that raise them as their own family members. They should be able to produce their pedigrees as well, and should have both parents on site so you can see how they react to you. We are very Type A when it comes to the quality of dogs which makes it more difficult to give referrals. We are always going to be biased and believe that the wait for a Premier Bernedoodle is worth it and you'll be very happy you did! Also you can visit your local humane society and help rescue a dog at the shelter.If you have young kids be sure to get a younger dog from the shelter that can adapt to your family. But if you're looking for a unique new family member, a Premier Bernedoodle will be a true delight. Colors and Fur Our Premier Bernedoodles will be traditional tri-color much like a Bernese Mountain Dog , abstract tricolor similar to a traditional tricolor with less white in the face , sable similar to a traditional tri-color but has more reddish-browns due to the poodle genetics we use , phantom, merle, merle tricolor, or bi-colored brown and white, black and white, or shades thereof. Our F1b's will consist of black and whites, traditional tricolors, abstract tricolors, and lots of variable brown and reddish brown and whites. Color never reflects temperament and personality so usually most people don't really care too much what color they are. They are all really beautiful. Although there's variation due to the hybrid vigor present as a result of the recombination of genes in many arrays, there is definitely a bernedoodle appearance that is fairly consistent. If you let the hair grow, they will look like big shaggy dogs that you can't help but to give a big hug to. And they enjoy every minute of it! Our Premier Bernedoodles will tend to have wavy curly coats due to the coat types we require in our bernese mountain dogs which helps to minimize or eliminate shedding.We do make sure that our standard poodles do not carry the genetic marker known as the "Improper Coat" allele or IC for short. Wavy curly coats do require a little more grooming as compared to straight, but many, straight coats shed more.Although they are considered to be large, they don't act like a large dog in the house. They are generally very careful and calm natured as adults however they do have some puppy-fun energy thru the puppyhood stages and thru 3 years of age. They love people and other pets! We do thorough genetic testing of our adults that we use in our breeding program to assure that you are purchasing the healthiest of bernedoodle puppies. Our Bernese mountain dogs come from very long-lived blood lines in Western Europe and these longer lifespans is one of the many reasons we obtain our Berners from several specific populations known for their longevity. Obviously we can't guarantee lifespan as there are many variables outside of our control not to mention, environment, stress, climate, food, etc. But track record seems to show a longer lifespan. What's the Difference? An F1b is an F1 standard Bernedoodle backcrossed to a standard poodle or could be a backcross to a Bernese mountain dog but we generally use the poodle as the backcross. An F1bb is an F1b standard Bernedoodle backcrossed to a standard poodle. Behaviorally they are all very similar with the F1b and F1bb's being slightly smaller than our F1 standards and tend to have slightly curlier coats to a tight wave. If you're looking for a smaller standard Bernedoodle these would be a great option. Pictures are posted below with the other pictures. We continue to get lots of praise from those that have purchased our F1b and F1bb standard bernedoodles. Is the Bernedoodle for Everybody? I would like to think so, but if you do not plan on being with your bernedoodle and keeping it with you, in your home, as part of your home, this is definitely not the dog for you. They thrive on being with the family and not isolated we believe this is the case for all dogs, and especially bernedoodles. Any of our puppies kept in a permanent kennel situation, on a tether, or the like, will violate the terms and conditions of our puppy contract and will have to render the puppy or dog back to Premier Doodles see puppy contract in link above. We definitely support crate training, but these dogs are not meant to live their life in a crate nor kennel! If you want a pet that prefers to be in isolation, you may want to consider a nonsocial pet perhaps a Betta fish! Yes we have done a lot of the hard work the first 8 weeks as we do extensive early neurological stimulation bio-sensor and Puppy Culture program, along with starting crate training and housebreaking, BUT, they are puppies and will need your undivided attention for the next weeks as they work towards being completely housebroken and earning more privileges. They have been communicating with their siblings for the past 8 weeks using their mouth. During their normal daily interactions, you will occasionally hear a loud "yelp" in response to one biting another too hard. This yelp usually ends the mouthing behavior. Now puppies have fur and people generally do not. When you bring your bernedoodle home, they will likely display some degree of mouthing behavior toward their human family. This will usually stop this behavior. We then redirect their desire to mouth to something more appropriate like a chew toy and after a few seconds of cooperating we praise them. The good news.We have a Puppy Guide under our tab "Puppy Central" on how to unpack this process so that you can have success. If you put them time in early, they will have this knocked out in a few days. The rule of thumb is to get them outside ALOT.Be sure to purchase two Midwest XL crates can get from our Puppy Store , one for the back door and one next to your bed. The power of meiosis specialized cell division event that occurs in the reproductive organs, ovaries for females and testes for males and crossing over assures that each offspring will be diverse and different and this difference will be noticeable in color and a little bit in behavior. All will be superior, but some will be more playful and others less so, some will mouth more than others, etc. Available Puppies.Check out our "Available Puppies" tab at the top to find out how to get onto our Master List for a future puppy! Medium Bernedoodle Trainability Both the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent and eager to satisfy their human companions, so naturally, the Bernedoodle will be too. For those educating themselves, training can be a piece of cake. In simpler terms, these are happy, highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and will usually adopt skills quickly. On the other hand, many say Bernedoodles can be stubborn. Does this change anything? The same psychological principles apply to all dogs. In the end, dog training is almost always more about the handler learning the correct ways to train dogs in his or her care. Bernedoodles are just as capable of learning perhaps more as any other dog. Socialise your Bernedoodle. Berners are widely known for their goofy, playful attitudes especially with children. However, unfortunate dogs that are never socialized are powerful enough to cause great bodily harm to those they deem as threats. Like many other giant breeds, Bernedoodles will usually be happy with moderate exercise. You could probably get away with two relatively quick walks daily. They do need mental stimulation though. These dogs are smart. Consider the original breed qualities. Of course every dog, just like every human, is different. Leadership Sure, the novice would-be dog owner might see one of these adorable, playful dogs. They might hear about all of these amazing qualities, like high intelligence, cuddly affection, or affinity for human family members. Does this mean they are great for first-time dog owners? Bernedoodles also need a handler who understands early canine socialization, preferably one who has done this multiple times with other dogs. Do Bernedoodles Need Haircuts? Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles are still half Bernese and can shed quite a lot. There are few guarantees with mixed breed pups. Thanks to their Poodle genetics, Bernedoodles will only have a single undercoat that will shed depending on how much of those genetics came from the Poodle parent. In the end, all dogs will give off dander; there is no eliminating that completely. Compare the two breeds below. It has a bright natural sheen. Extremely curly or extremely dull-looking coats are undesirable. Your pet will probably shed, depending on how much Bernedoodle DNA was inherited, but not as much as the parent breed himself. Yes or No to Haircuts? This thick coat also affords protection from harmful UV rays and guards against insect bites. They can have one single undercoat. On the other hand, Bernedoodles will usually only have a single undercoat, thanks to their Poodle genetics. The coat type will often depend on the litter generation since breeders are able to better select for desired traits the further they go. The later the generation i. How Big Do Bernedoodles Get? Imagine mixing a medium-large breed lbs. The size of your puppies will fall between those limits, but the end result will probably depend on what percentage of either dog went into the mixture. The Standard Bernedoodle will usually weigh lbs kg with an average height of inches cm. This is nothing more than an average, and your Bernedoodle could end up weighing in at over a hundred pounds or less if you have a slender Poodle. Cost — Why are Bernedoodles so Expensive? Your first answer is very simple. People like rare and large dogs, and will pay more for them. Tri-color coats are in the highest demand. Continuous cross-breeding of existing crosses will increase likelihood of medical problems, so breeding is a slower process. Your price will increase with breeder reputation. In this case, smaller Bernedoodles tend to be more difficult often bred by using artificial insemination to breed and will cost more. The table here assumes your Bernedoodle is standard.

According to Tufts Veterinary School , food aggression is when dogs become aggressive when someone approaches them around food. There are a range of fixes for this, including training a dog to stop showing this behavior, or just effectively managing it and minimizing the risks around it. How To Prevent Aggression In Golden Retrievers The best thing to do about aggression in golden retrievers is to stop it from happening in the first place. Since bad behaviors usually stem from a mix of environmental and genetic factors, here are three ways to try to prevent aggression in your golden: 1. Socialize your dog Dogs usually become aggressive when they feel threatened. Choose a good breeder Since genetics definitely play a role in whether or not golden retrievers can be aggressive, make sure to choose a good breeder than is breeding good-tempered dogs. Also, breeders are the first ones to socialize your puppy , and responsible breeders will know how to do that, as well as care enough to do it. Goldens are big dogs with big teeth, so if you have an aggressive golden, it could be dangerous. Conclusion Although it is not common, it is possible for golden retrievers to be aggressive. To prevent aggression in your dog, be sure to never physically punish them, choose a good breeder, and properly socialize them. Related articles:. Are Golden Retrievers Aggressive? The Honest Truth Posted on April 5, by Galen Kauffman Share: Golden Retriever owners will most times be highly indignant if you dare to suggest that their Goldens have even an iota of aggression in them. They will be quick to tell you that dog experts will even use this big golden, friendly dog as an example breed when looking to confirm what a calm, amicable dog is. And the puppies? Are golden Retrievers aggressive as puppies? Not at all. Alright, so as a puppy it is only natural that he will nip and bite your hand as he is teething. He has the cutest little growl too. However, not training your puppy and not taking him along to socialization classes can allow this puppy habit to develop into something serious. Is Aggression Common in Golden Retrievers? Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? Only very seldom. Calm and laid back as your Golden Retriever is, there are going to be times when your golden doggo may be aggressive. They are loving, playful, calm, friendly, smiling, amiable dogs. Are male Golden Retrievers aggressive more often than females? Not really. As mentioned, these dogs are rarely aggressive, but it is more likely that the male Golden Retriever will be more aggressive than the female. Aggression in Golden Retrievers nearly always comes from poor breeding, bad dog owners, inadequate training, and lack of socialization. You can also add in abuse, neglect, and cruelty. Golden Retrievers are known as control groups for aggression A control group is a standard to which comparisons are made in a dog aggression experiment. There is a control group and an experimental group. The inclusion of a control group helps the researcher to make conclusions from the study. It is only with a control group that a researcher can determine whether a treatment can have an effect on an experimental group. In the study, golden retrievers were tested and used as a control group. Seventy Golden Retrievers were tested in the temperament test. Levels of escalation in aggressive behavior were scored. A total of .Goldens are not typically aggressive Most Golden Retriever owners are familiar with the good-natured temperaments of their Goldens, and they would consider an aggressive Golden Retriever to be an unheard-of thing. Dogs are like kids and the Golden is just a big loving child wanting to please you. And rightly so. Nobody in their right mind would want an aggressive Golden Retriever around their small children. Nonetheless, even though the chances are almost nil that your Golden has any aggression in him, there are one or two factors that can cause aggression in Golden Retrievers, and with good reason, and we look at some of them below. Fear Fear causes any dog faced with a threat to defend itself by biting. Veterinary behavior specialists tell us that fear-related aggression is just that — it is used as self-defense. It may well be out of sheer desperation that a cornered dog bites when it anticipates a threat. A Golden Retriever that has been regularly smacked learns to generalize — believing that every human hand wants to strike him. He goes into self-protection mode by biting the hand that reaches out to him. Fear is also instilled in a dog such as the Golden Retriever when an owner uses harsh, cruel punishment-based training methods. Harsh behavior increases aggression but also anxiety. Danger Dogs act in unusual ways when they sense danger. Can Golden Retrievers be aggressive in the face of danger? This abuse can take different forms. Goldens who have suffered from emotional and physical abuse can respond to anyone with aggression. He will in all likelihood be scared, agitated, and aggressive. Socializing your Golden Retriever will prepare him for a broad range of situations so that he is able to interact with various animals, people, and situations. It teaches him to react to the world out there in a calm way without fear and aggression. Illness Aggression in a Golden Retriever can have a medical cause. Just like the human child gets whiney, cranky, and aggressive when ill and with a bad headache, our canine friends do as well. Medically-induced aggression in a Golden Retriever can result in warning signs of growling, baring teeth, and general aggression. Brain inflammation occurs in conditions such as rabies and encephalitis. The aggression in this instance is most times a neurological reaction to the effect of the inflammation on the brain. Low thyroid levels affect mood and thyroid therapy can relieve aggression in dogs with hypothyroidism. Dogs are like humans in some ways and if they have woken up feeling under the weather, they may respond by showing signs of aggression. Injury There are many causes of aggression in dogs and injury is a common cause of canine aggression. Your Golden Retriever is nearly always a well-behaved dog, so if he suddenly shows signs of aggression, you just know there is something unusual up with him. If you find him acting out of character and wanting to nip you, get him to the vet as soon as possible for a thorough examination. He could have chewed on something that has caused injury to the teeth or even lodged somewhere, causing injury and pain inside the mouth. Irresponsible Breeding Canine aggression always poses concerns. Aggression in dogs is researched by people wanting to understand breed differences. Research always reveals that the Golden Retriever is a calm, good-natured golden beauty with hardly an aggressive bone inside him. But what about irresponsible breeding? A dog can suffer from all kinds of complications in pregnancy and when ignored because of the costs it can be tragic and heartbreaking. A responsible Golden Retriever breeder is one who knows the breed well and who has health clearances to show that both parents are free of genetic disorders. They follow the AKC breed guidelines for health testing. The test includes hips, elbows, thyroid tests, hearing tests, DNA testing, and heart tests. Also before breeding, dog parents need additional tests for Brucellosis testing and both dogs need to be up to date with all their vaccinations. Their characteristics, their bad attitude, their lack of affection, their lack of concern, and their troublesome lifestyle all cause aggression in Golden Retrievers. Signs of Aggression in Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are sometimes like other dogs in showing their aggression and they will growl and bark while simultaneously becoming hyperactive. Their floppy ears are raised, the feathered tail is raised and stiff and their hackles are raised. If your Golden has turned into a bit of a biter, snapper, and growler, there has to be a good reason. So how does one stop aggression in Golden Retrievers? Socializing Ensure that your Golden Retriever puppy stays with his mother until he is 8 weeks of age. Just like young kids have to be disciplined in order for them to display appropriate behavior, your puppy Golden will need to be trained and socialized. Check out with your local vet where the best puppy socialization classes are. Choosing a Good Breeder By the time your Golden Retriever puppy is 8 weeks old, he is ready to go to his new home. The way he has developed so far will be dependent on how the breeder has raised him and his siblings. Puppies kept in an unloving, cold, hostile environment will have aggressive tendencies later on and not be able to function properly in your household. Choose a good breeder very carefully. Are you wanting to buy the cutest, most beautiful, friendliest, balanced, loving, non-aggressive Golden Retriever puppy? My Golden Retriever Puppies has just what you want, after all, they are the trusted source for responsibly-raised Golden Retriever Puppies in Ohio. Know your breeder and find yourself a healthy, lively, happy, amicable Golden who has been raised with love and care and dying to shower you with Golden Retriever kisses. Training Although it is difficult to find one iota of aggression in a Golden Retriever, any kind of aggressive behavior can be avoided with proper training. Apart from early socialization, you can train your dog firmly, fairly, and consistently. You could also allow a reputable professional dog behaviorist or trainer to train your Golden to mix with other people and dogs without showing aggressive tendencies. Positive reinforcement training is great when a tasty treat is given as a reward for the desired behavior. Never confuse your dog, and make sure that everyone in the family uses the same signs and commands that he is familiar with. Exercise If you want to avoid aggression in your Golden Retriever, exercise him. Dog aggression is a concern for any dog owner and even your mild, calm Golden can begin to feel the stirrings of aggression when he is never exercised. The Golden Retriever is a large dog and he is also a sporting breed. Your Golden will need a consistent workout every day for at least 20 minutes at a time. Hitting a ball for him with a tennis racquet can be an excellent running exercise for him. You have to be patient with him and show him kindness, gentleness, and fairness when training him. Conclusion Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? They can be, but only under certain circumstances. It is things such as improper breeding, abuse, and fear from humans that put aggression into any dog. Know your Golden and get him to the vet if you suspect uncharacteristic aggression which could be brought on by pain or illness. You can easily find one by checking out our puppies here! All our puppies are raised by our own group of small, independent breeders who lovingly care for and socialize with each of them daily so they grow up happy. We even take all the extra steps to provide the best healthcare for them. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. 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. Print Retrievers, for the most part, make great family dogs. They are also smart, so they learn quickly and their strong willingness to please often makes retrievers a great addition to the family. But some retriever puppies are a high-energy ball of fire, one that is difficult to train or even handle in daily life. And sometimes there will be signs of aggressive behavior that are concerning. However, there is a fine line between puppy play behavior and hyper and aggressive behavior. Some owners are reluctant to stop such behavior thinking that it is just puppy behavior and therefore the dog will outgrow it. If you have a retriever puppy that is hyper or aggressive you might wonder what can be done and why they are acting that way. Here is some guidance on this topic. What are normal puppy behaviors? It is normal for very young puppies to nip at your hands and your feet. It is also normal for them to chew on things, jump on you and walk all over you. An 8-week-old puppy nipping at your hand might at first seem cute and sweet. But one bite from those exceedingly sharp puppy teeth and you might decide its not so cute. Those teeth can puncture your skin in a second and draw blood just as quickly. So, while it may be normal for a puppy to nip at your hand or foot, it is not a behavior that you want to ignore. Puppy play is naturally aggressive When puppies playing with their litter mates, the play can be very aggressive. This is natural, as dogs, they are always figuring out their pack and where they fit into the pack. Recognizing puppy play You can recognize when a retriever puppy is playing by the stance they take. They also may run around in circles, growling, or barking in high pitched barks, but when they do this their ears will be up, their tail wagging and they do not look threatening. It is uncommon for puppies under 12 weeks of age to exhibit true aggression. True aggression involves a dog exhibiting prolonged growling with a stiff posture and baring of teeth. Their hackles the hair on their back will be raised and they will be poised in a threatening position with ears back. If you were to approach a dog in this position which I do not recommend they will often move toward you and try to bite or snap at you. This type of aggression is something to be fearful about and is not healthy. Isolate the dog as much as possible and consult a veterinary or other professional for help or advice. What are signs of aggression in puppies All puppies can act aggressively, but if you take steps to address the aggressive behaviors while your dog is a young puppy, you can make a huge difference on how or whether that aggression progresses. These are all forms of aggression and none of them should be tolerated, not as a puppy and certainly not as a dog. There are also dominance behaviors that puppies exhibit that are often mistaken as aggression. They include things like jumping on people, stepping on people, pushing you around, forcing you to pet them and others. While these behaviors can be done aggressively, and should still be corrected immediately, they are not the same as aggression. Definition of puppy Because we often get clients that bring out their dogs that are close to a year old and refer to them as puppies, I want to define what I consider a puppy. A puppy is a dog under six months of age. Most retrievers are a good size by around six months. They will often continue to grow up until about a year and a half, but they have the bulk of their size by the time they are six months. And by six months, you need to have a handle on any aggressive behaviors, or you are going to struggle with eliminating them. Is it normal for a puppy to be very aggressive? It is normal for a puppy to test you with aggressive behaviors. And to be clear, that place should be at the bottom of the pack, under all your family members. I understand that your dog is a part of your family but allowing your dog to be in a position above any or all your family members is just asking for trouble. Treating your dog as a human and attributing your dog with human thoughts and reasoning is not fair to your dog or to your family. Love your dog, but make sure your dog is the lowest member of your pack and you will have a much easier time with obedience and basic good behavior. How to stop puppy growling Growling is often the first step for dog aggression. Or, if you try and take a toy away from your dog. No matter how or when you see the aggression start, it is important to nip it in the bud right away. A sharp NO command sometimes is all that is needed, especially if it is well-timed with the first sign of the growl or nip. Other times you may need to grab your dogs muzzle and squeeze. If these corrections do not seem to be helping, I would immediately crate my dog if it growled at me. Be sure you do not let your dog out of the crate while he is exhibiting a growling behavior. Only let him out if he is behaving appropriately. How to stop puppy nipping or biting A dog that nips or bites you often started as a very young puppy. We teach our puppies at 8-weeks-old that biting and nipping people is not allowed. And at this very young age, they learn it very quickly. Your pup may cry out or squirm, but that is fine. In fact, you need to be quite stern to make an impression. If it continues, you are not being firm or consistent enough. How to stop puppy growling while tugging During play, it is not uncommon for retriever puppies to growl and tug at toys, blankets, even your pant leg. This behavior is usually just playful and natural. However, I would still try to end this behavior as soon as possible. While almost harmless at first, this behavior can escalate quickly as your dog grows bigger and stronger. You can end this behavior first by not participating in it. If you start tugging with a toy with your puppy, you are going to encourage the behavior. The second step is to discourage the behavior with a sharp NO command. It can help if you say GIVE when you take the item. This will start to teach him the GIVE command that will be helpful later if you are a hunter. How to stop puppy baring his teeth A puppy or dog that bares his teeth to you is threatening to bite you. Even if the puppy goes no further than to bare the teeth and growl, you need to end this behavior. This behavior is far more dangerous than the puppy that nips at your hand. The nips may be done in play, since that is how puppies play with one another, but baring of teeth and growling is different. And you must handle it differently. I am not talking about lifting your dog off the floor with the shake, but if your puppy is very young, that may indeed be a great correction. Have you ever witnessed a mama dog correct her puppies? This is not a violent thing, just a natural correction for a puppy. The puppies rarely cry out or whimper when given this correction, they just walk away and understand that the behavior they were exhibiting is not acceptable. If your dog continues to bare his teeth even after this correction, you may have a bigger problem on your hands, and I would proceed carefully. True dog aggression is no joking matter. Dogs with aggression problems can snap at any time and go from baring their teeth to full out attacks. Hyper behavior is different from aggression. A hyper dog has a lot of energy and may not know how to control or channel that energy. Often hyper behavior is a genetic trait. In this sense, it is not something that you can eliminate. But you can take steps to make it more manageable. Exercise more Dogs that are hyper need more exercise than dogs that are more docile in nature. If your dog is hyper and is not getting enough exercise, the hype behavior is going to drive the dog to other behaviors that you may not enjoy such as chewing up your dining room table leg or your favorite pair of shoes. For instance, if your dog is hyper and is jumping up and down all the time, and you not only allow the jumping but pet him or her and give praise while your dog is jumping, then you are unknowingly rewarding the jumping behavior. Give your puppy time to mature Retrievers are often full of energy while they are young, well some a bit longer, but tend to slow down as they mature. But as they mature they do usually slow down and become a bit less energetic. Training Highly energetic dogs can benefit greatly from structured training programs. Programs such as the ones we offer here at Otter Tail Kennels, can teach an energetic dog control and channel their energy into hunting or retrieving which can make home life more manageable. There are even some things you can do at home to get more control of your energetic dog. Practice sitting I know this sounds boring, and for you it is. But for an energetic dog that does not like sitting at all, having them sit for 30 seconds, or a minute or two can be very challenging. They will need many reminders at first, but over time they will learn to settle and sit calmly. You can slowly increase the amount of time. This simple obedience drill will help your dog learn control. Teach your dog the kennel command so that when you say Kennel, they run into their crate and stay there until you release them. This basically sends your dog on a time out and forces them to practice control and settle. Final thoughts on why my puppy is so hyper and aggressive For dogs under 6 months of age, much hyper and aggressive behavior is simply puppy play. You must teach your puppy boundaries and the earlier you teach them the better. Be consistent in your corrections and persistent, and over time you will reap the benefits. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. Lunging Biting Dogs can display these behaviors toward adults or children, as well as other dogs or animals in the home. However, they can also act aggressively toward strangers or unfamiliar pets. What should you do if you see these signs of aggression in your dog? If you ignore this behavior, someone could get hurt. To address the underlying issue, seek professional help from a licensed dog trainer or animal behaviorist. If they do show signs of aggression, there is a reason. So, what causes this kind of dog aggression? Causes of Aggression in Golden Retrievers Are golden retrievers aggressive in most cases? But do golden retrievers have the propensity to act aggressively as a result of certain factors, just like any dog breed? Food aggression and resource guarding is relatively common among dogs, including the golden retriever. Dogs might also be possessive about their toys, bedding, a certain room in the house, or a certain family member. Dominance Because dogs are pack animals, they tend to look for hierarchy. Aa dog may try to assert their dominance over another pet or, in some very rare cases, a family member. We generally find golden retrievers are fantastic family dogs. Fear Another type of aggression is fear-based aggression. Fear aggression occurs when your dog is frightened of something or gets startled. A loud noise like thunder, a stranger in the house, or the prospect of a car ride could trigger this. They can be, just like any dog. A golden could snap when someone steps on their tail or massages a sore arthritic joint too hard. They can help alleviate joint pain, improve mobility, and help with long-term joint health. Abuse or neglect can result in a fear or distrust of humans and other animals, so a golden who has experienced this kind of mistreatment could be more likely to act out aggressively. However, like any other dog breed, they can display aggressive behavior under some circumstances. The question is, how can you avoid such circumstances and encourage more positive responses? Here are the best ways to avoid bad behavior, including canine aggression, when you own a golden retriever: Give Proper Training Dog owners can avoid many behavioral problems with good long-term training. Your dog should know the fundamental commands like sit, stay, come, heel, and lay down. They should also be crate and leash trained. If you need some help, consult a dog trainer for help or enroll your pet in obedience training classes. Kids need to know that your dog is not a toy and needs to be given the proper space and respect. Socialize Your Dog Proper socialization means exposing your dog to a wide variety of people, animals, situations, and environments at a young age. That way, your pooch grows up familiar with everything they may encounter as an adult, which helps to avoid unwanted behavior like aggression. You can socialize an older dog as well as a golden retriever puppy — it just might take a little more time and patience. Positive reinforcement is a much better tactic. This means rewarding your pet with treats and verbal praise when they exhibit good behavior and correcting them when they need it, rather than resorting to punishment. Choose a Reputable Breeder Are golden retrievers aggressive when they come from a breeder? Not necessarily, but poor breeding practices can certainly contribute to aggression. Dogs who come from backyard breeders or crowded settings may have had to compete for food, toys, or territory, increasing the likelihood of aggression later in life. Most shelters work with the dogs in their care to make sure they have basic training and socialization. Are Golden Retrievers Aggressive or Not? Are golden retrievers aggressive? No, not inherently. On the contrary, golden retrievers are extremely friendly dogs who are social, affectionate, gentle creatures. They tend to get along very well with adults, kids, and other pets, making the golden one of the best dogs for families. While golden retrievers are not aggressive by nature, there are several possible reasons why they might show aggression. Any dog can be possessive, try to assert dominance, be afraid or in pain, or come from a background of abuse or neglect. To avoid aggression in your golden retriever, commit to training them and socializing your pet. Last but not least, adopt your dog from a reputable breeder or shelter that has instilled some training and positive socialization already. Browse the Native Pet blog. Read more. While most people do not think that agressive golden retriever is a problem, it can be depending how the dog was raised. If a dog or puppy is abused from early on and then you adopt this dog, it can have some aggressive dog behavior that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. The kind, friendly, and confident manner of Golden Retrievers have made them so popular that many unscrupulous breeders were attracted towards them. As a result, careless breeding of Golden Retrievers have developed several health and temperament problems. Unprovoked Golden Retriever aggression is one such problem that has developed due to irresponsible breeding. Though aggression is an instinctive nature of Golden Retrievers, they were never unwanted. Golden Retrievers had shown aggression to hunt, to defend themselves from other creatures, to defend resources such as food, a place to sleep, and a mate. Golden Retriever aggression has been classified in several ways — dog aggression, food aggression, aggression towards strangers, and aggression towards family members are some of the common types. Aggressive Golden Retriever Dog : rare but it can happen. It is rare for a Golden Retriever dog to turn out to be aggressive, but it can happen. There are many causes for this type of behavioral issues. In some cases, poor propagation can result in an aggressive Golden Retriever. Dominance issues are one of the most common reasons for aggression. Most often times, Golden Retriever dog aggression issues will simply be acting out of fear. This is acknowledged as defensive aggression. For instance, if your golden was hurt by a big dog or young child when she was youthful, she may react aggressively when uncovered to these triggers later on in life. Dealing with defensive aggression can be scary and irritating at the same time. While you do not want to scare your dog or cause more emotional trauma, you naturally want to decrease the incidences of aggressive behavior. One of the most important things you can do when dealing with defensive aggression is to not disregard the problem. It is important to deal with the issues as soon as possible mainly because aggression can increase over time if not properly addressed. Aggressive behavior can begin with some Golden retriever dogs when they are as youthful as five or six weeks old! This is why it is very important to invest in your golden retriever from a reputable breeder. One good way to stop aggressive behavior is to make sure that your dog or puppy is properly socialized. A critical period for socialization is from the time a dog is 6 weeks old until he or she is 14 weeks old. Following your puppy is weaned and has received her first sequence of shots, you can take her out in public. Some people choose to socialize their dog in public before she has acquired shots. You can minimize the risk of your dog contracting a virus by holding her while out in public. Aggressive behavior in any dog is easy to spot, ears will be laid back, teeth showing and body more in a downward slant as if to attack its prey. In addition, you should be able to recognize the signs of dog aggression to learn how to deal with an aggressive golden retriever dog. This signs can include: Dominate aggression is typically the bully type of aggression, which can lead to food dominance or having problems with dogs or people. Fear aggression typically happens when the dog is so afraid that they go into a fight or flight mode. Typically their tail may be between their legs even when they are showing signs of aggression. Territorial aggression happens when there is typically more than one dog in the home and one is territorial over food or toys. Some dogs become very aggressive when they are possessive of their owners. This means that they may bite or growl if others approach their owner. Many dogs become aggressive with punishment which is the direct cause of humans. This means harsh punishment which is abuse can lead to the dog becoming aggressive to protect itself. Some dogs display aggression when they are in pain, especially a senior dog, therefore it is important not to lift a dog that is in pain. Maternal aggression, if your golden retriever dog just had a liter of puppies, you might not want to begin playing with the puppies straight away because this can cause the motherly instinct to kick in and make her aggressive toward you. It is important to recognize the type of golden retriever aggression that your dog is displaying because sometimes it is just situational, such as pain aggression. Dogs are like people and they deal with pain differently, which means that some dogs want you to comfort them when they are in pain and others want you to leave them alone. It is vital you know the cues your dog is giving you so that you understand if it is situational or if your dog needs obedience training. While golden retrievers are not know for their aggressiveness, any dog in certain situations can become aggressive. Half of all the dogs out there bite someone or another dog at least once in their life. Dog biting is not desired behavior, no matter whether it is aimed at humans or dogs you need to put a stop to it as early as possibly can. By stopping this behavior as early as you can you will be able to prevent the chance of your dog developing anti-social habits. If you can stop your dog from biting as early as you can then you will be able to have a nice friendly dog which will not be a risk to other dogs or other people. When stopping dog biting too many people don't stop to think about the actual reasons for it happening, actually Golden Retriever aggression and biting are two very natural things when they are in danger or feel threatened. Your dog might bite because he is scared or for a variety of other reasons. If your dog is stressed for example then he might bite, just think about what you do when you're in a foul mood. Some people may become aggressive when they are in a bad mood, and dogs are exactly the same. There are different ways that humans can relieve this pressure, however dogs don't have as many options. In order to stamp out Golden Retriever aggression and biting you need to show your dog that any such behavior is completely unacceptable to you. There are a number of different things that can cause dog biting and aggression, including fear, when they are with young, or when they feel threatened. If you are aware what causes dog aggression and biting then you may be able to avoid all of these things. The next important step that you want to look at is training your dog, you will be able to train your dog so that he doesn't show any aggression. It's possible to do this training yourself or with the help of a professional. If you train your dog properly then he will be able to know that it is wrong to bite. There are also a number of other options that you have when you want to find ways to stop your dog biting. If you notice that your dog is biting from a young age then you stand a better chance of getting the problem sorted out easily. You need to socialize your puppy with other people and dogs to make him feel comfortable around strangers. Try to get your dog used to other people touching and petting him, you can do this by allowing your dog to sniff each new person before they are allowed to pet him. Your dog will enjoy this as it is like a handshake! Make sure that you do not tease your Golden Retriever dog, teasing your dog might get some good reactions but it's not good for your puppy. Teasing games will only aggravate the puppy and make him annoyed. So if you have a puppy that is biting then now is the right time to start training him not to bite. A puppy's bites may not hurt at this stage, however they will do very soon! Make sure that you socialize your dog and get him completely used to strangers before he reaches adulthood. If you do all of these things then you should be able to stop your dog being one of the ones that bites other people! Nobody wants a Agressive Golden Retriever that bites, fortunately you don't have to put up with it any longer! You will learn how to deal with it. This means that you should never discipline your young puppy harshly, especially if she is between 8 to 10 weeks old. When you discipline your dog, do not hit her with your hand or another object, yell at her, or use other harsh discipline methods. This can actually backfire and cause more aggression, especially if your dog is defensive aggressive. In Golden Retrievers, the majority of the cases of dog aggression and food aggression have genetic components. According to one such study, breeding for calmness in Golden Retrievers have messed the fundamental brain chemistry of the dog resulting in unwanted aggression. Selective breeding against the nature of the dog has fastened the process. However, if a Golden Retriever has developed a dog aggression or food aggression we can at least control it through proper socialization and obedience training. Living conditions, excessive punishment, being attacked or frightened by an aggressive dog also influence aggression in Golden Retrievers. While genetics may play a role in raising aggressive behavior, environment can play a huge role. If your dog is abused or neglected, she will have a very good chance of starting to be aggressive. A dog that has poor living conditions, very harsh masters and no social expertise is very most likely to develop behavior issues. If your dog shows aggressive behavior immediately after one year of age, you will need to address the problem quickly. You may need to enlist the help of a trained professional to do this. Recall that it is important to not reward your dog for aggressive behavior. If you deal with your dog or pet your dog immediately immediately after aggressive behavior, you are in essence rewarding that behavior. If your dog becomes aggressive since it is fearful, you will need to take some time to work on social competencies and socialization. You should also seek the advice of a trained professional who has practical experience dealing with defensive aggressive behaviors. Aggression can be controlled. Nonetheless, it is very important to take the steps necessary to solve the problem as an alternative of ignoring behaviors and hoping that they will go away on their own. Here are some tips for Controling Agressive Golden Retrievers Aggressive Behavior : Firstly you need to work out why your dog is biting. Once you know the reasons then you will be able to isolate these and work on correcting them. We're going to take a look at a few tips which might be enough to make your life slightly easier. Social Life While your Golden Retriever puppy is young you should make sure that he socializes with as many other dogs as possible. This will help him to understand that the other dogs and people are not a threat, and in actual fact they can all get on like a house on fire! When your Golden Retriever puppy is young it might look cute when your puppy bites, however it's certainly not cute when your puppy gets older! Consistent In order for your Golden Retriever dog to learn anything you need to be consistent. Whenever your dog bites anybody, anything or any other dog then you need to show him that it's just not acceptable. Once he starts to learn that biting is not acceptable then he will slowly learn not to do it. Don't get too annoyed Dogs thrive on contact with other people and so you cannot just ignore him when he does something wrong. If your dog is agressive then tell him off, then for a few minutes do nothing, however after that stroke him and pet him. You need to show your Golden Retriever dog that you still love him, otherwise he will only get annoyed, just make sure you keep your hands a long way away from his mouth! Don't hit your dog When you are telling your dog off some people may tell you to strike your dog. However this is never a good idea. It isn't sensible to strike your dog because he is being disobedient, or aggressive. Just give him a warning. Physical punishment is a surefire way to lose your puppies trust forever. Trust is vital for any future relationship you have with your dog to be a success. Don't play too roughly If your Golden Retriever is aggressive then you shouldn't play roughly as this might encourage him to bite you. By playing roughing you are actually showing him that this behavior is ok. You need to show that it is not acceptable for your dog to do anything you don't like. By playing rough he will think that it's ok to play rough with you too. Some dogs are harder to stop biting or being agressive than others which may cause you a lot of frustration. However there are plenty of other methods to help you find ways how to get dog to stop biting. Water spray You could get one of those spray water bottles used to mist plants and put some water in it. Whenever your dog does anything you don't like then you can say no, and spray him with water. This should startle your dog, and as he doesn't like it he should associate it with being bad. Praise Another option is to reinforce everything good that he does. Whenever he does anything right then give him lots of praise. Positive reinforcement is thought to be much more effective than negative punishment. All dogs love treats and praise, so if you only give it to them when they deserve it then they will soon get the idea. Though Golden Retrievers are equally amiable with both strangers and those familiar to them, they sometime show aggression towards both of them. The reasons may vary for a Golden Retriever aggression towards strangers and towards family members. One reason why a Golden Retriever shows aggression towards strangers is that they might never have the chance to get used to them. Again proper socialization and lot of outings can solve the problem. Socializing Golden Retriever means that you start exposing them to a wide variety of new experiences, new people, and new animals from a young age. Aggression towards family members can be commonly because of two reasons— either your Golden Retriever is trying to defend himself from a perceived threat, which he sees in any of the family member or he is not comfortable with the treatment he is getting from you or other members of the family. Golden Retrievers have an overly-possessive behavior and when you try to take away his belongings or you approach it when it is eating, they develop aggression against you. This resource guarding nature of Golden Retrievers which gives rise to aggression actually boils down to the issue of dominance. Your Golden Retriever has a tendency to rank each member of the family, and has his own perception of where he ranks in that environment as well. And a higher-ranked Golden Retriever acts aggressively in defense of resources. The best way to treat Golden Retriever aggression is consistent and frequent obedience work with lot of socialization. In fact, the earlier you start the socialization process the lesser are the chances of aggression. Golden Retrievers also show aggression if they are not handled and groomed properly. Picking up his paws and touching them with the clipper and taking them into the bath definitely helps in reducing the chances of aggression. Conclusion about how to deal with an agressive golden retriever dog Agressive Golden Retriever can quickly become a serious problem which is often blamed entirely on the dog. However your dog doesn't know any better, and so it is actually your responsibility as the owner to get the problem sorted. It can be very frustrating when dogs bite, however it is possible to stop your dog biting and being agressive today. So, Keep in mind that golden retriever dogs are smart, therefore, if you recently adopted a full grown dog and it is showing signs of aggression, you should immediately get your golden retriever dog in an obedience training course. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. How on earth does one of the most lovable and gentle dogs out there become aggressive? Unfortunately, it is not unheard of. Golden Retrievers are just as likely to show aggressive behavior as any other animal or human out there. We look at a few of the factors that can cause aggression in Golden Retrievers and a few of the common warning signs. We also look briefly at the methods that you can use to help prevent aggression in your Golden. Abuse This is an unfortunate truth. Neglect Neglect is absolutely a form of abuse. It can be withdrawing any kind of love or affection or even just attention from a dog, but it can also include not providing the dog with the basic necessities of life, such as food and water. When a Golden has been malnourished, they start to exhibit food-guarding behavior , which includes growling and biting at anyone or anything while they are eating. Image Credit: chendongshan, Shutterstock 3. This is considered one of the most common causes of aggression in most dogs. Illness or Pain Dogs that are in pain or are sick can react with aggression. They feel vulnerable, and if they are in pain or some form of discomfort, they can lash out in a protective or defensive reaction. Specific Illnesses This is different from a dog feeling sick. There are certain illnesses that can cause aggression. The most famous is rabies, but hormonal imbalances or metabolic and genetic disorders can also cause aggression, such as hypothyroidism, neoplasia, and psychomotor epilepsy, to name a few. Image Credit: Piqsels 6. Danger or Threat All dogs will react aggressively if they feel threatened or feel the need to protect their territory , including their families. This is particularly true for a mother dog protecting her puppies. A dog without the proper socialization will be nervous and fearful in new situations and around new people. Image Credit: pixels, Shutterstock 9. But they can also breed undesirable traits into their puppies. So, if the parents or grandparents had aggressive natures, this might be passed down to the next generations. The Warning Signs It is helpful to recognize the warning signs before a dog acts out from aggression. A few of these will be obvious, but most signs can be overlooked or misunderstood. Body language that your Golden might display, in order of the aggression ramping up, include: Squinting, turning head or body away from the situation, and avoidance of eye contact Licking of the lips or yawning Flattening of the ears tightly against the head Crouching down and tucking the tail under the body Freezing in place and stiffening of the body Growling Snapping Biting These are all signs that a bite might be imminent, so proceed with caution if your dog is exhibiting these signs. That said, many of these tips can be applied to almost any dog at any age. Image Credit: Piqsels 1. Socialization Just as improper socialization can lead to eventual aggression, the right socialization can prevent it. When your puppy or dog is introduced to as many environments, situations, people, and animals as possible, they gradually learn to not be afraid of new things. Using praise, pets, and treats when your dog does something right is the best method for training all breeds. Image Credit: Piqsels 3. Find a Good Breeder The genetics of the dog is important and so is how the breeder raises the puppies. Patience and Love This is important for every single dog out there but is particularly true for rescue dogs. Rescue dogs will gradually learn to trust again. Image Credit: Standret, Shutterstock 5. If you have a handle on what causes an aggressive reaction from your dog, try to fix it. But first take your dog to the vet to rule out any injury or illness. Exercise Ensure that your Golden is receiving plenty of exercise. They are energetic dogs that need to engage in many types of activities and training, which effectively reduces aggressive behavior. You should also look into enrolling your dog in obedience classes or even agility trials and dock diving. These dogs are hard-working, and if you give them a job to do, they are less likely to become aggressive. They are the fourth most intelligent dog breed behind the Border Collie , Poodle , and German Shepherd , and they are highly sensitive dogs. The first sign of any kind of aggression needs to be addressed, even if it means talking to an animal behaviorist or vet. Just spend time with your Golden and give them plenty of love and attention, and that dog will absolutely be devoted and confident and unquestionably, a happy and loving companion!

Today, that pet is the Boxer Mastiff mix, a beautiful guard dog that has a playful personality. Many years ago, the Boxer and English Mastiff were bred as protectors or guardians. Nowadays, that has changed. Yes, some puppies still have the same instinct. And while it seems fun while they are small, the potential of pounds dog pulling on a leash or acting aggressively is terrifying. But do not worry, that is not the case. Meet The Breed Do you want a large dog full of character? Well then, we have to introduce you to the Boxmas. The appearance of this Boxer mix is almost as sweet as its name. The offspring is the result of two large dogs who have protective instincts. These instincts might kick into action if the dog feels the family is in danger. Yet, with early training and plenty of socialization, things can be changed. We have to note that the Boxmas puppy is a relatively new breed. We do not know as much, and there is no breed standard by The American Kennel Club. But we do have plenty of information that will help you determine whether this puppy is the right for your household or not. Meet The Parents Whenever you talk about a mixed breed, you have to begin with the two parents. Given that there is no breed standard for hybrid dog breeds, the personality and features of the parents can help you understand your future pet. Boxer The Boxer is one of the funniest dogs around. Many years ago, this canine was a guardian dog. And while it still has some instincts, domestication has turned the Boxer into an amazing and loving pet. How much do you know about the Boxer? In a way, they are not aware of their big size They have a fun-loving and goofy personality, making them a joy to be around Mastiff The English Mastiff breed is a large dog famous for its strength, courage, and loyalty. Many call it a gentle giant because of its loving personality and big size. They make an excellent choice for families and households that want a loyal and protective dog. Their calm demeanor, courage, and loyalty are praised by dog lovers. With that in mind, here are some common personality traits of the English dog breed. The Boxmas puppy is a family-friendly pup with a bit of a stubborn streak. Given that their parent breeds are large, this mixed puppy is usually on the larger side. It would be nice if you have a bit of space for your puppy to stretch out and roam. When standing, they can grow up to 30 inches, and their paws look huge when the puppy is born. A muscular and stocky dog, the Boxmas weighs between 70 and pounds. They are relatively new on the scene, so breeders have not had enough time to go over all the physical characteristics. Usually, though, they take up on the Mastiff frame and the Boxer face. Their coat is short and dense, usually in colors like brown, black, and brindle. There might be streaks of white across the body. Despite its short coat, the Mastiff Boxer mix is a heavy shedder, but more on that later on. Temperament One of the big misconceptions about the English Mastiff and Boxer mix is that they are dangerous. But that is absolutely not true. They are not aggressive, despite the fact their parents were historically bred for fighting and security purposes. Instead, this Boxer mix exhibits deep affection and love for people, children, and even other animals. They love having fun and endless entertainment with their owner. Energetic and fun-loving, this puppy is known to be playful and dopey. You can say they are quite the performers. Having one in your home will provide hours of endless entertainment for the entire family. When this dog is not playing, he is on guard duty. They are not overly barky but will alert the owners when they think a danger looms. Remember, this mixed puppy is a guard dog. Now, you might think a protective dog is not good with children. But quite the opposite. This gentle giant has protective, yet patient nature, making it a great addition to a household with children. Training Training can be a bit challenging with this canine. Socialization is also important, even at an early age. It can help prevent guarding and protective instincts to a point they are tolerable. You do not want a pound dog barking at everything that moves, right? You should schedule interactions with humans and animals outside of your household. Use positive reinforcement to reward good and calm behavior. This will help your puppy understand that strangers are not enemies per se. You also want to put effort into preventing your dog from becoming over-protective of the household. Yes, your dog can be attached to family members. But over-protectiveness and hostility will make it difficult for your dog to live in urban areas. This hybrid dog is intelligent, yet stubborn at times. What you can use to your advantage is the fact they constantly seek praise from their owners. It makes the canine relatively easy to train. Yet, keep the session short and fun. These dogs tend to get bored and distracted easily. When you look at the parent breeds, one is lean, and the other is muscular. Mastiffs have trouble maintaining their weight and walking for a long time. Boxer dogs, on the other hand, are quite athletic. So, your Boxmas will fall somewhere in the middle. Generally speaking, your dog needs between 30 and 45 minutes of physical exercise per day. And then some mental stimulation to keep its brain in check. Health Ask owners of large dogs like Mastiffs, and they will tell you these puppies do not live a long life. The extra weight puts stress on the body. But the good news is that crossing breeds helps eliminate certain health issues and risks. Generally speaking, a Boxer Mastiff mix lives between 10 and 13 years. There are still some health complications that you have to pay attention to. For starters, because it mostly inherits the Boxer face, this puppy can also be brachycephalic and suffer from breathing issues. Another common problem is hip dysplasia, due to the massive weight of the large-sized dog. Last, but not least, is gastric torsion. Food dispensers can help with quick eating and portion control. Grooming Many people think that dogs with short coats do not shed much. But that is just not true. In this case, we have a heavy shedder. And there is a reason for that. While they have a short coat, they have a dense coat. Make sure to brush your pooch once per week to remove dead hair. Bathe your puppy once every 4 to 6 months. They are heavy shedders, despite their short coat They drool, same as their Mastiff and Boxer parent breed These dogs have a massive size and need an owner who can handle it Why Should You Get One? Their calm, yet protective nature, makes them excellent pets for children They do not need much exercise compared to some more athletic large dogs Relatively easy to train because of their tendency to seek praise from their owner Facebook. The Mastiff dog here does not refer to its smaller counterpart, the Bullmastiff. From its size to its protective nature, you may find this Boxer Mastiff Mix one of the best breeds to own. A Boxmas dog is a crossbreed between a Boxer and a Mastiff, and is ranked among the heavyweights of the dog family. Regarded to be a relatively new dog breed, this can explain why the American Kennel Club has not yet recognized the Boxer Mastiff Mix officially. If you are looking forward to getting this dog breed, you landed in the right place. Moreover, this amazing breed comes with a unique characteristic that you can rarely find in most dogs. Read through to the end to learn more about it, as well as owning and raising this wonderful hybrid. The Boxer Mastiff Mix is known for its muscular and stocky body and can weigh between 70 and lbs. On the other hand, its height can get up to 30 inches. The males are often larger and heavier than the females. However, there is very little information on the numeric values of both the height and weight of male and female Boxmas dogs, since this breed is relatively new on the market. If you prefer large dogs and have enough space, you may find the Boxmas your ideal canine companion. Below are some physical appearance traits you can expect to see. Aesthetics The Boxmas dog is known for capturing the most identifiable characteristics from both of its parents. The appearance may vary depending on the dominantly inherited firm of either of the parents. You will also notice brown eyes, a black nose, and medium-length ears. You will mostly notice a muscular and strong body with long legs. The legs also come with longer paws. Another notorious trait of the Boxmas dog is the cropped tail. Common color patterns will include brown, black, or brindle. This Boxmas also has a straight coat texture. However, you may need to do thorough brushing regularly to keep the coat healthy and clean. Be sure to brush your pooch in an open and airy space so that your breathing is not affected by the loose hair. The Boxer Mastiff Mix has a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. This breed is considered to have a fairly healthy life. However, there are a few health complications that are prone to the Boxmas dog. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is commonly associated with large dog breeds. If not fixed, the condition may elevate to painful arthritis and lameness of the joints. Image from Instagram: otis. Affected dogs usually have a more pushed in face. This condition typically results in breathing difficulties, heat and dental problems. Gastric Torsion This is another common health issue that may affect your Boxmas. As little as it may look, gastric torsion can be a life-threatening condition in your dog. Consider following good feeding practices like offering meals in small portions to avoid this condition. Ectropion Boxmas can inherit ectropion from the Mastiff parent. The condition causes the eyelids to hang drastically. This may expose your dear fido to potential infections. Whenever you see these symptoms, it is advisable to call your vet. Given its huge size, this may not take you by surprise. Just like in humans, dogs are what they eat. Check out these tips below on how to take care of your Boxmas. Choose High-Quality Dog Food It is crucial to invest in high-quality food to keep your dear fido safe from health problems associated with poor feeding practices. So, finding the right food diet option every day may be challenging. With this in mind, you may opt for the best food companies to do the job for you. One of the most renowned food companies you can opt for is Pet Plate. With their offer of a fresh diet and human-grade ingredients, you can be sure to feed your dear fido the best food to keep it healthy through every stage of their life. Overfeeding can quickly lead to obesity issues in your Boxmas. Remember to include these nutrients in your diet every time if you want your pooch to live a fuller and healthier life. One way to do this is to rely on dental water additives. Being an energetic breed, you will have to provide sufficient exercise to prevent boredom and keep it mentally stimulated. Otherwise, it may resort to destructive behaviors, such as incessant digging and chewing of furniture. Are Boxer Mastiff Mixes Aggressive? Temperaments Of Boxer Mastiff Mixes The Boxer Mastiff Mixes are not aggressive, despite having both Boxer and Mastiff dogs historically bred to be dogs for fighting and security purposes. Bred from these aggressive parent dogs, the Boxmas dog ironically exhibits deep affection and love for their owners and children. This pooch can be caught having fun and endless entertainment for their owners and the whole family with great energy. Here are other personality traits you can further expect from the Boxmas dog. Its loving nature perhaps has won the hearts of most individuals looking for large-sized pets. Do note that the Boxmas breed is prone to separation anxiety. If you intend to leave your pooch at home alone for long periods or beyond 6 hours, you should consider getting a professional sitter to care for your pooch while you are away. You may find time to move fairly quickly while playing with this dog. Protective The Boxmas dog is said not to have any barking tendency. When this happens, do pay attention as the pooch is possibly trying to alert you of strangers or possible dangers around your home. Its assumed intelligence trait inherited from the Boxer parent is evident when you engage the pooch with mentally stimulating activities. Do Boxer Mastiff Mixes Shed? As noted early, if you want to have this dog, prepare to have a vacuum to clean the hairs through the surfaces of your house. The pooch has short to medium hair. The coat is also dense and straight, which should make it easy for you to maintain. Check out the grooming tips below for your Boxer Mastiff Mix. Brush The Coat Regularly Due to its high shedding level, the Boxmas is not a suitable pet dog for individuals with allergies. It may also prevent loose hairs from accumulating all over your house. You may want to try the best brushing tools for the best result like the Furminator Undercoat Tool. With its ergonomic handle, your daily brushing routine will be quicker and easier. The tool also features a button to release the fur easily when pressed, thereby improving your grooming experience with your canine friend. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. To eliminate this smell, bath your Boxmas every 6 to 8 weeks. Ensure you do not bath your dear fido frequently as its skin will be stripped of the essential oils for protection. These practices include wiping and cleaning the ears at least once every week, brushing teeth everyday to remove tartar, and trimming the nails every 2 to 3 weeks. It is always crucial to check the health of both parents before adopting your Boxmas. Being a new breed, you may have to conduct thorough research in locating reputable breeders. Are Boxers And Mastiffs Related? Both the Boxer and the Mastiff breeds are related to each other. Hence, this may explain the uncanny resemblances in some physical characteristics between the Boxer and the Mastiff. Mastiffs can get along with Boxers, only if they both have been through socialization training. Both dog breeds have past breeding histories as fighting and guard dogs, so there will be some risk involved if both dogs are introduced to each other without any form of socialization training. They require regular exercise through daily walks or playtime with an interactive toy like a KONG to burn off pent-up energy and stay mentally stimulated. Due to their larger size, Boxer Mastiff Mixes tend not to be the best apartment dogs. They tend to be very active and energetic, and they need plenty of daily exercise and room to move around. They love to play with their human family members, but because of their size and strength, they should always be supervised around children. Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs are not recommended for homes with very small children , but older children who understand how to respectfully interact with dogs may enjoy having one of these hybrids as a companion. Boxer Mastiffs make good watchdogs and will alert their owners if someone is approaching the house or yard. They do have a tendency to bark at times, which can be annoying for neighbors. Is the Boxer Mastiff Mix the right dog for you? Crossbred dogs like the Boxer Mastiff Mix are sometimes referred to as hybrid dogs, mixed breed dogs, or designer dogs. These terms refer to dogs that have been bred from two different purebred breeds with the goal of producing puppies that exhibit the best traits of both parents. And this is where the controversy comes in. Early generation crossbreed dogs are generally not as predictable as their purebred parents by way of health, temperament, and appearance. This means that they could be more like one parent breed over the other, or they could be a perfect mix of both. Hybrid vigor is a term used to describe the theory in which crossbred dogs are potentially healthier and stronger than purebred dogs. This is a theory that was popularized in the 19th century by British biologist Sir Francis Galton. He believed that by crossing two different breeds of animal, you could get a hybrid that was stronger and healthier than either parent breed. The idea is that when you breed closely related dogs like purebreds with similar traits and genetic histories, they have a higher chance of producing offspring that could wind up inheriting similar genes for undesirable traits like disease. The result could mean a healthier offspring with fewer health problems than either parent breed would have produced on its own. While the theory of hybrid vigor is a promising one, it is quite controversial and not accepted by everyone. If you are considering a Boxer Mastiff Mix, you should be aware that he could inherit any of the same genetic traits as his purebred parents. This could include traits like temperament, health, and appearance. These dogs are a cross between the purebred Mastiff and the purebred Boxer. The Boxer Mastiff Mix is a relatively new crossbreed, with many people wondering where it came from and how long it has been on the scene. The Boxer Mastiff mix is a combination of two very popular breeds: the Boxer and the Mastiff. As we discussed above, if you are considering a Boxer Mastiff Mix to call your own, you should closely consider the traits of the Boxer and the Mastiff as well. The Boxer is an intelligent and energetic dog with a strong prey drive, which means training and socialization at an early age are going to be very important to ensuring this dog is well-rounded and well-behaved. The Boxer is a very loyal, protective breed that thrives on human companionship. They are great family dogs as long as they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Although Boxers are friendly and social, they do not always do well with small children because they can knock them over when playing or roughhousing. This breed may also be impatient with youngsters who are too rough or persistent. For this reason, a Boxer and a Boxer Mastiff Mix is best for families with older children who understand how to treat dogs appropriately. Boxers are not known for being overly friendly towards other dogs or cats unless they are raised together from puppyhood, but even then there may be issues if you have multiple pets in your home such as a cat and dog. It has an extremely affectionate nature and loves nothing more than to be around its family. Mastiff dogs tend to have a docile temperament and are good with children when properly raised, trained, and socialized. They are also protective of their owners and will be wary of strangers or those they find suspicious. There are different types of Mastiff dogs available, but they all have a similar origin. Mastiff dogs were specifically bred for hunting wild boar and other large game. They were also used as guard dogs, since they were so large and intimidating. The first mastiff was known as the Alaunt, which was developed in England during the 14th century. The Alaunt was then crossed with another breed called the Bloodhound to produce a dog that was even larger in size. The result of these two crosses was called the English Bulldog which is not related to the modern American bulldog. Later on, more crosses were made between bulldogs and mastiffs until they reached their current form. So, what can you expect if you combine the traits of the modern-day Mastiff and the Boxer? Keep reading to find out. When properly raised, trained, and socialized, Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs can do well with children. You should always supervise your Boxer Mastiff mix around smaller children as well to ensure everyone is getting along safely and happily. We also suggest teaching children the basics of canine body language and how to properly pet and handle their dog. Remind children that it is not safe or respectful to tease, poke, sit on, ride on, or even hug a Boxer Mastiff Mix dog. This will help prevent any future behavioral issues from occurring as they become more confident around others in general. And this brings us to the importance of proper training and socialization. Keep reading. Early socialization and training are important for any dog, but especially for large breed dogs with potential guarding instincts like the Boxer Mastiff Mix. Boxer Mastiffs are very social dogs and need lots of attention from their owners. Although Boxer Mastiff mix dogs are not known for being aggressive or territorial, they do have strong protective instincts which can make them wary around strangers. They tend to be more comfortable around people they know and trust. Training classes are usually offered at local pet stores, but you can also find quality trainers in your area with some simple research. Behavioral classes can help get your puppy off to a good start and help you learn how to train them properly. When you are training your Boxer Mastiff Mix, be sure you are using positive reinforcement training techniques as opposed to aversive training techniques like fear or scolding. Positive reinforcement training is based on operant conditioning, which uses rewards to shape behavior in dogs. The most common methods of positive reinforcement include treats, praise, clicker training, patience, and consistency. Clicker training is another effective method you can use when it comes to positive reinforcement training. This type of training involves using a small handheld clicker along with treats to train your dog when he or she does something right. We have listed a clicker training product below we would recommend when it comes to training your dog using this method. This kit includes a clicker, a training guide, and a pouch you can use as a poop dispenser on walks or a treat holding pouch. We also like that the dog training guide has easy-to-follow instructions on how to teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay and come. The training guide also provides tips on how to make the most out of your time spent with your dog by teaching him tricks that will make him more obedient and fun to be around! Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, the Boxer Mastiff can develop health issues. Boxer Mastiffs are athletic dogs who love to run, jump and play. With that being said, you need to be careful not to over exercise this hybrid because it could lead to injury. The appropriate exercise for a Boxer Mastiff Mix includes: Taking him on daily walks that are 45 minutes to an hour long Playing fetch or tug of war with him in the backyard or at the park. About an hour or so of exercise each day will suffice, and the most important thing is that you stay consistent. Routine exercise for your Boxer Mastiff Mix can help reduce the risk of certain injuries later in life by ensuring he has healthy bones, joints, and muscles. When you are walking your Boxer Mastiff Mix outside, be sure you invest in a quality dog harness. Although the Boxer Mastiff Mix is a large breed dog, we recommend against choke chains or prong collars. Instead, invest in front clip no-pull dog harnesses like the one listed below. Unlike other harnesses, this harness has no metal parts. The harness comes in different sizes and colors so you can find the right one for your unique dog and preference. Mental stimulation can come in many forms for dogs, and you can combine mental stimulation with exercise to help your pup stay both happy and healthy. For example, you can take your dog on walks with you and let him explore new places while you take in the sights. You could also play games with your dog! Most dogs love playing catch and Frisbee, but there are lots of other options out there too. Try hiding treats around the house or in different rooms so your dog has to work for his food! Hide his toys around the house as well and then give him a treat when he finds them — this game can help your dog learn to use his sense of smell and find things on his own! You can also invest in puzzle toys that challenge your dog, as well as KONGS or other chew toys that help keep your dog busy and occupied while you are away. This is because the Boxer Mastiff Mix has a short coat that sheds moderately. In addition, with regular brushing, you should be able to keep the undercoat from becoming too matted. The Boxer Mastiff Mix needs to be brushed regularly to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. You can brush them with a slicker brush or a pin brush to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout their coat. The Boxer Mastiff Mix should also be bathed occasionally with a shampoo specified for canine use. Avoid overbathing your Boxer Mastiff Mix, as this can lead to skin issues down the road. It is made by a trusted brand, and it is well-reviewed by many pet owners. The product contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal that help to soothe skin inflammation and itching. Dental care is another important aspect of grooming when it comes to the Boxer Mastiff Mix. Like all dogs, the Boxer Mastiff mix should have his teeth brushed daily with an approved pet toothpaste and toothbrush. This will help prevent tartar buildup on his teeth, which can lead to oral infections or gum disease, as well as bad breath and tooth decay. Last, be sure to check your Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs ears often and keep them free of waxy buildup, moisture, or debris. These dogs do have long, floppy ears, which can make them more susceptible to ear infections. He could also be prone to suffering from any of the same genetic health issues of both the purebred Boxer or the purebred Mastiff. The lifespan of this mixed breed depends on many factors including his size and overall health. However, there are some general guidelines that owners can follow when deciding how long their dogs may live. On average, Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs tend to live between 6 to 10 years, though they can sometimes live longer when properly cared for and when fed an appropriate diet. Finding reputable breeders that produce top-quality Boxer Mastiff mix puppies can be quite difficult. There are places where you can find Boxer Mastiff puppies for sale, and I am not talking about pet stores or puppy mills! These are reputable places that advertise Boxer Mastiff puppies. Here are some of the places where you can find Boxer Mastiff puppies for sale: Petango — This online pet database lists thousands of large-size hybrid dogs, including Boxer Mastiff mixes. You will also find other information about the listed mixes, such as their location, gender, coat color, and type of mix, on their website. PuppySpot — With over hundreds of purebred and designer dog breeds, you can surely find a Boxer Mastiff mix on this site. This online platform also comprehensively details the backgrounds of the puppies on its list. Another option is adopting from rescue and local animal shelters. Adopting is a practical and noble way of acquiring and owning a Boxer Mastiff mix. They take in, treat, feed, and train abandoned Boxers and Boxer mixes until they are ready for adoption. Mastiffs to Mutts Rescue MTM — This animal shelter dedicates itself to rescuing surrendered and abandoned Mastiff breeds and other giant breed dogs and mixes. Their rescue efforts extend throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. You should contact them as they might have a Boxer Mastiff mix in their care. If you are lucky, you might find a Boxer Mastiff ready for adoption in this rescue. Aside from the rescues mentioned above, you can also check out our Boxer rescue directory that lists local shelters that take in Boxer mixes, including the Boxmas mix. You should also review our ultimate dog adoption guide , which could help you ace your dog adoption application. This dog has specific demands and needs that should be met. There are also some advantages and disadvantages to owning one of these dogs. Here are some of the pros of owning a Boxer Mastiff mix: Unique appearance: There is no denying that Boxer Mastiff mixes have cool and unique appearances. Their overall looks resemble the elegant phenotypic features of the Boxer breed and the colossal size of the English Mastiff. Good guard dog: The Boxer Mastiff mix has innate guarding abilities. It is calm and gentle but will not hesitate to protect its family. Its sheer size could also easily intimidate intruders. Highly intelligent dogs: This giant mixed breed is easy to train because of its natural intelligence. They are docile, and they love to please their owners. They only need weekly brushing and monthly bathing to keep them fresh and clean. Meanwhile, here are some of the cons of owning Boxer Mastiff mixes: Not recommended for families with toddlers: Because of their large body builds, Boxer Mastiff can unintentionally knock off toddlers, which can cause accidents and injuries. Highly protective: Since both the Mastiff and Boxer are guard dogs, the Boxmas dog can become too protective of its family. Hard to predict its growth and size: There is no established guide for monitoring the growth of the Mastiff Boxer mix. Hence, its final weight and size are difficult to predict. Highly active: Boxer Mastiffs are energetic dogs so they require regular exercise and activities. This means that if you are a busy person, this hybrid might not be the perfect dog for you. These are just some of the pros and cons of owning a Boxer Mastiff mix. You can use this list in deciding whether this designer dog is worth having as a pet. Both the Boxer and the Mastiff breeds were historically used as protectors or guardians. That means Boxer puppies are highly likely to inherit this instinct to protect and guard their families. This will help them grow into well-rounded and obedient adult dogs. That means shorter walks, no jumping from heights, and feeding a specific dog food designed for larger breeds. They excelled as cattle dogs, watchdogs, police dogs, and guide dogs, as well as serving as war dogs in both world wars. Mastiff type breeds have been around for centuries. Luckily, U. Boxmas dogs are extremely protective of their families Thanks to the fact that both the Mastiff and the Boxer have been bred to instinctively protect their families, Boxmas puppies are highly likely to inherit this same trait. Without these training sessions, their protective instinct can soon turn into aggression. On the flip side, when it comes to mixed breeds, it can be harder to predict particular characteristics of these hybrids in terms of size, appearance, and temperament. This gives them a nice balance between activity and rest. While these dogs are sweet and gentle around their families, their protective natures mean they always want to make sure their owners are safe. The Boxer Mastiff cross is intelligent and will enjoy regular training sessions to keep them mentally as well as physically exercised. Their kind and loving nature make them suitable for life with children, but their large size and sometimes excitable nature means they can sometimes knock small children over! You will need to do a fair amount of training to make sure that family friends are accepted into your home with the minimum of fuss. While you might feel confident around your large-breed Boxmas, bear in mind that their size and stature can make them look intimidating to visitors. Make sure your Boxmas knows not to jump on people. Boxers can sometimes tend to become nervous around other dogs of the same sex. Always make sure to introduce new pets to each other slowly and in a controlled environment. Keep the initial meetings short and sweet, and allow each pet somewhere safe they can retreat to if they feel the need. Things to Know When Owning a Boxmas: Deciding to add a Boxmas to your family is a big decision and requires both time and money. Before you make your mind up for sure, here are a few more things you should know about this breed first. This will have the correct levels of calcium and phosphorous to ensure that their bones grow correctly. It will also have a lower percentage of protein, fat, and calories than foods designed for smaller breed puppies. Your puppy is likely to inherit the work ethic and intelligence of both parent breeds. Boredom sometimes leads to destructive habits, which none of us want to face! Their natural propensity to guard can easily roll over into aggression if not managed properly. Puppy training classes are an excellent way to socialize your puppy while having a professional trainer on hand to help with any specific goals you may have. Praise and positive reinforcement are an excellent tool for Boxmas owners. Raised voices during training can worry a Mastiff and may cause them to become disengaged. We reviewed the best puppy training treats: check out our top picks here! A weekly brush should be enough to keep them looking healthy. When they shed, which will be twice a year, you can up your grooming sessions to help remove any dead hair. If your Boxmas puppy inherits a more Mastiff-shaped head from one of their parents, then be prepared for the fact that you might need to deal with drool! Mastiffs are notorious droolers, often choosing to stand close to you while they do so! You can also check their nails at the same time, but these should only need trimming once a month or so. Luckily in the case of the Boxmas, this is also true. Minor Conditions. Rescue Me! Grooming Your Mastiff Mixed With Boxer Boxer Mastiffs are easy to groom overall but generally shed in large amounts, which is why you should schedule days that you thoroughly brush their fur. Daily brushing is essential even for your short hair because it eliminates and lessens dirt accumulation as well as hair accumulation in the house. Ear and teeth hygiene should be an everyday priority to avoid dirt and bacterial accumulation in the ears and cavities or tartar, which could lead to infections in the future. Some of the conditions to take note of are: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic disease wherein there is an abnormal formation of the hip socket, which causes immense pain for the dog. If left untreated may cause crippling and painful arthritis of the joints. Due to excessive gastric content, the stomach of the dog becomes overstretched. It may cause severe pain when moving. Ectropion: This condition is more common in Mastiffs. The lower eyelids appear droopy due to an abnormality and may result in conjunctivitis or keratitis. Make sure you make arrangements with members of the family to ensure an adequately measured amount of food for your puppy. Choose gifts that have low calories instead, so that obesity is avoidable. The best choice of food would be those that are rich in protein for proper muscle building and repairing. Protein can be obtained through dog food alone, or you could ask your local vet for additional snacks and supplements. You can find protein in meat such as chicken, lamb, fish, and beef. Meat meals are concentrated forms sans the moisture but offer the same amount of protein as well. Fats are essential for eye and brain development because of the rich sources of Omega-3 Fatty acids. Chicken meat and fish oil are excellent sources. Avoid giving your Boxmas foods rich in common allergens such as corn, soy, dairy, wheat, and potatoes. Also refrain from giving any food coloring, as these may compromise the immune system. Never give them table food because it might cause different allergic reactions ranging from skin allergies to difficulty in breathing. To give your Boxer crossed with Mastiff better nutrition, check the following high quality and nutrient-packed dog food available on the market: Fromm Large Breed Puppy Gold Formula: This is a brand that ensures there are no allergens or irritants included. Specially formulated for puppies who are known to grow over fifty pounds, protein and fat levels are moderately incorporated. DHA-rich salmon oil is a bonus for brain and eye development. There are additional vitamins and antioxidants as well as a grain-free formula. Protein and fat levels are lower compared to different brands in the market but still packed with needed nutrients and vitamins to ensure proper growth and development. Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dry Food: This product boasts of high-quality proteins and nutrients, as well as the incorporation of L-carnitine. This combination helps your Mastiff mixed with Boxer maintain its overall built, burn fat efficiently, and avoid obesity. Orijen Puppy Large: The ingredients are fresh and high in protein. It consists of chicken and turkey, as well as fish. Your dog may be big or small, but you need to keep it happy and healthy all the time. Never give them the worst dry dog food that is low in nutrients and filled with by-products, and opt for best dry dog food instead. For the littlest of munchkins, check out our list of best puppy food brands , and for gray-coated, wise grandpa-doggos, opt only for the best senior dry dog food. Your stunning mixed heartthrob carries the genes of their super-gorgeous and incredibly different parents. But that means that you are in luck as you can offer your little charmer both the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food. Let them have a final say in which kibble they nibble. In line with the diet, also schedule a daily exercise regimen for your Boxmas. They are highly energetic and exuberant by nature, which means they require at least an hour of intense activities and exercises. This program includes running, walking, playing fetch, obedience exercises, and jogging. Never contain your Boxer crossed with Mastiff in a small space such as apartments or condos. Fulfill their need to stay fit by choosing a home that has adequate running space if you plan to adopt a Boxmas. Another option is to take trips to the park or jog around the neighborhood. If left idle for too long, they can be agitated or easily distracted and tend to destroy or chew on things out of frustration. Here are some toys to help exercise your Boxmas: OxGord BazooK-9 Tennis Ball Launcher Gun: Since your hybrid is energetic and loves running, this tennis ball launcher is a perfect toy when visiting parks or playing in the backyard. Invest in this versatile product so that it also saves you energy from having to throw the ball. It prevents the potential risk for periodontal disease. KONG Wubba Dog Toy: Made of nylon and has two balls inside one chewable and one squeaky , the Wubba dog toy will be a Boxmas favorite because of its durability and appearance. There is no need to continually throw away and replace toys when you purchase this product. Your hybrid will engage in chewing and decrease any risks of periodontal diseases as well. It can be a challenge for most owners because of the intelligence plus energetic combo, but with patience and determination, your hybrid will follow proper orders in no time. Boxers are easy to lead and train. This trait will save you a lot of time and effort. Make sure to familiarize yourself and your pup with play biting and attacking an intruder or stranger. If you can, plan for the whole week instead. It can be a challenge to keep their attention focused on the training, but with perseverance and patience, everything will eventually pay off. Encourage positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement will always be one of the best and most endorsed strategies to train a dog because it taps into the mental aspect. Your hybrid will automatically think that the specific actions you want your dog to do will earn a treat. Apply this in all tricks and strategies you wish to impart. Another thing to remember is always to have a big space for them to move around when around children to avoid any unwanted accidents. Your hybrid is a large dog and might be prone to crashes if confined in a small space. You can renovate your backyard and put obstacles or toys, or you may visit the park and play with other dogs. But in general, Boxer Mastiffs are very loyal, fun, active, and protective. The temperament from both parent breeds ensures that there is no aggressiveness or violence along with, of course, proper training. Older members of the family can pitch in and help training the big fellow, and this also allows more exposure to different people. This plan will avoid the unwanted one-owner type of dog in the future, as well as agitation and idleness. As an owner, it is your responsibility to ensure a healthy diet, proper living space, frequent trips to the vet, and specific training to help your hybrid live the best years of its life. Typically, Boxers are lively and playful dogs that make great companions for families with children. They are also known for being intelligent and loyal, which makes them excellent guard dogs. The Mastiff, on the other hand, is a large and powerful dog that was originally bred in England. Mastiffs are gentle giants that are fiercely loyal to their families. However, they can also be wary of strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. When you mix these two breeds together, you get the Boxer Mastiff mix — a dog that combines the best of both worlds. The Boxmas is an energetic and affectionate dog that is perfect for those who want an ideal family pet. The average height of a Boxmas is 24 to 27 inches, and they typically weigh between 70 and pounds. These dogs have short, dense fur that is usually black, brown, or brindle in color. Boxmas Temperament The Boxmas is a cross between two very different breeds of dogs, the Boxer and the Mastiff. As a result, they can inherit a wide range of temperament traits from their parents. Some Boxmas dogs are outgoing and friendly, while others may be more reserved. Some are laid back and easygoing, while others have a higher energy level. However, all Boxmas dogs share a few key temperament traits. They are intelligent and trainable dogs who bond closely with their families. With proper socialization, they can get along well with other pets and children. Boxmas Exercise Needs The Boxmas is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day, and they thrived best when given ample opportunities to run and play. The following exercise activities are some great options to consider: Fetch — This helps your dog to use up some of its energy, as well as giving them some mental stimulation. Tug-of-war — This is a great way to play with your Boxmas and build up their muscles. Running — Take your dog for a run or jog around the block to help them get its daily exercise. Long walks — A daily walk is a great way to bond with your dog and give them the exercise they need. Hiking — If you live near trails or woods, take your Boxmas on a hike for a fun and different way to exercise. Mental Stimulation In addition to physical exercise, the Boxmas also needs plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. These dogs are intelligent and need to be given some challenging tasks to keep them occupied. Some great ideas for mentally stimulating your Boxmas include: Food puzzles Give your dog a food puzzle toy to help them use their brain power to figure out how to get the treats inside. Specialist Training Enroll your dog in an obedience or agility class to help them learn new tricks and stay mentally sharp. Boxmas Training Needs The Boxmas is a smart dog that is easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and petting. These dogs need to be given consistent training from an early age to prevent them from becoming willful or stubborn. A few examples of their training needs include; Obedience training This will help your dog to learn basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Agility training This is a fun way to give your dog some exercise and mental stimulation. You can train for agility by setting up a course in your backyard or taking your dog to an agility class. Tracking This is a great activity for dogs who love to use their sense of smell. You can start tracking training by hiding treats around the house and teaching your dog to follow the scent to find them. Socialization training This is crucial for preventing aggression in your Boxmas. With proper training and socialization, the Boxmas can be a great addition to any family. Is the Boxer Mastiff Mix Loyal? Yes, they are! The Boxer Mastiff Mix is one of the most loyal dog breeds. They are also protective of their family and home. If you are new to the household and you want that loyalty from them, you need to gain their trust first. The best way to do this is by being consistent with your rules and providing them with plenty of love, attention, and exercise. Once they trust you, they will be your loyal companion for life. Boxmas Barking Levels The Boxer Mastiff Mix is not a yappy dog, but they will bark when they feel the need to protect their home or family. If you want to control their barking levels, you can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to tire them out. Boxmas Drooling Levels The Boxmas is not a particularly drooly dog, but they may drool when they are excited or nervous. If you are concerned about their drooling levels, you can wipe their face with a damp cloth to keep the drool from getting too out of control. You can also feed them smaller meals more frequently to help reduce the amount of drool they produce. Another way to help with the drooling is to give your dog plenty of chew toys to help keep their minds occupied and help reduce anxiety. The Boxer Mastiff Mix is a large breed dog, so they will need high-quality dog food that is formulated for large breed dogs. This food should be high in protein and fat to help them maintain their energy levels and muscle mass. It is important to avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates as this can lead to obesity in these dogs. You should also avoid giving them table scraps as this can lead to digestive issues. They can have meals like; Raw meat.

GSDs are known as herding dogs, and they are of great help to their owners, especially when it comes to protecting their home and territory in general. All Mixed Up Dog Rescue This is a fairly new pet rescue organization that is a result of the wish to help crossbred mongrels that are generally neglected in animal shelters and kennels. The majority of the pups placed in this organization are stray canines that over-flooded the street and had to be moved from there. Some pups are completely healthy, but are abandoned by their family, which probably decided to replace the pup with a new one. However, this rescue center is more than happy to offer a safe haven to every pup that needs their help. The owner of GSROR decided to start everything from the beginning, with the help of canine enthusiasts who were more than happy to be a part of the new project. Instead of focusing on a single breed, the owner of this kennel decided to open their doors to all sorts of pure and crossbred mutts. Also, gsror. Therefore, if you want to check out any details or see pictures of their prior puppies, make sure to do so asap. Adoption Process Adopting from AMU is a fairly easy process that requires a certain amount of time, but they also help you receive the exact pup that you have always wanted. Only those who are over 25 years old are eligible for pet adoption which is literally the best idea ever. We are always looking for new volunteers — providing temporary foster homes for these dogs is the big need, but there are many more opportunities to help. Please consider joining our efforts. We also help owners who, due to unforeseen circumstances, find themselves unable to keep their dogs. Adopting Your New Canine Family Member All of the Front Range adoptable dogs are home fostered, or in cases where no foster home is available, some may even be boarded. Approved Applicants will receive detailed info on how to meet select dogs. Our entire adoption process typically takes no more than weeks from your submitting the application until you have a dog in your home. We rely solely on volunteers to place our dogs. Our volunteers have busy lives with their own families, jobs, school, pets, etc. We DO NOT discuss individual dogs with applicants until the adoption process has been completed because there is often more than one applicant interested in a particular dog, and we do not want to promise the same dog to more than one applicant. You can take home a shelter dog the same day. The first step is to submit a completed application. Your application does not obligate you to adopt, nor does accepting an application represent approval of that application. You do not apply to adopt a particular dog. The more open you are to gender, color and age, the more likely you are to find a dog with us. Next, we call your vet and your references. We are looking for people with a history of good pet care. Ideal applicants have lots of experience working with GSDs or large breed dogs. We want homes that accept that they are rescuing a dog and are willing to work with the dog to make him a good citizen. Yes, you will have to do some work. We will schedule a home visit. Once you have been approved to adopt from us we will contact you about suitable dogs and put you in contact with the foster parents. Since the foster parents know the dog the best, they are a key part of the process in determining which home and family is best suited for their foster dog. We get dogs into rescue on a regular basis and they are placed with previously approved adopters who have been waiting for their forever dog. It is best not to focus on any specific dog until you have been approved. We welcome your interest in a dog that may steal your heart but please remember that the dogs posted on our site today will most likely go to homes of applicants that applied weeks ago. Once dogs are available, we work with our current, approved applications until we find the right family for the dog. Once you are ready to adopt, we will give you all the information we have on the dogs for which you may be a good match.

How long should puppies stay with their mother? The ideal window is between 8 and weeks-old. They are healthy and adorable, and you want to bring them home as soon as you possibly can. However, the time your puppy spends with their mother and siblings is critical for development, and so it's important to make sure they spend this growth period with their litter. The first month For the first four weeks or so, puppies depend on their mothers for everything. This milk provides all the nutrition the puppies need for the first few weeks after birth. Weaning to solid foods Puppies start to experiment with solid food as early as 3-weeks-old. They still nurse, and mothers continue to produce milk for up to 10 weeks. Some nursing is for nutrition, but it is also a comforting, bonding activity for the puppies. Most puppies are fully weaned to solid food between 7 and 10 weeks of age, although the transition can occur earlier. Learning to speak dog Just as important for puppy development is learning proper canine etiquette and communication as part of a litter. For example, as early as 3 weeks of age, puppies start learning from their mother and siblings to eliminate away from where they sleep, which helps with housebreaking later. The pups are practicing hunting and communication behaviors that they need to perfect. One of the most important skills that puppies learn through play is bite inhibition and not chomping down too hard. If a puppy bites too hard, the other will cry out, signaling that the bite was too rough. Moms will do the same thing or may gently correct the puppies for getting too rough. This is a critical lesson to learn before heading out into the world, as other dogs will be far less tolerant of inappropriate puppy play than Mom! Biting is also a common problem behavior that can land a dog in a shelter or worse later in life. Puppies will also practice a variety of vocalizations and body language, learning to communicate with their siblings and mother. Socialization Puppies have an early critical socialization period from approximately 5 to 14 weeks of age. During this time, puppies are open to learning and experiencing new things, and the things they learn will affect how they go through the rest of their lives. Breeders and other caretakers should be exposing the puppies to novel sights and sounds on a regular basis. Puppies destined to be working or sporting dogs should be exposed to things they will encounter in their future roles, such as sheep wool for herding dogs, a variety of materials and obstacles to climb over for agility dogs, and training scents for future drug and bomb detection dogs. These safe exposures should continue after you bring your puppy home, but early socialization with litter-mates and the mother are also important for building confidence. The puppies will observe how their mother responds to new people and things and then mimic her behavior. If Mom is relaxed and friendly around new people, the puppies will likely be comfortable with strangers. Research has found that puppies who are separated from the litter too early are more likely to show fear, aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, reactivity and inappropriate play biting than puppies who stay with the litter for at least eight weeks. The ideal time The exact time that is best for a puppy to go to its new home can vary by situation, but most breeders and veterinarians agree that 8 weeks of age is a good minimum. Some states have laws in place preventing puppies from being sold any earlier. Eight weeks after birth, the puppy is eating solid food on their own, they have benefited from socializing with litter-mates and observing mom, and they are well within the ideal timeframe to bond with new owners. Breeders may also opt to keep the puppies until 10 or 12 weeks of age. Toy breeds in particular are often kept with the litter until they are 12 weeks old because they are so small and fragile. This gives the pups extra time with the litter, and still has them going to their forever homes in plenty of time to form a strong bond with their new people. And anyone who has welcomed an adult dog into their home knows that dogs of any age will still bond with their new owners as long as they have had socialization with people! Keeping the puppies longer does mean more work for the breeder, since they are responsible for all the puppies during those extra weeks. But if the breeder is putting in that time and effort to give the puppies a great foundation, then the extra time with their litter can be very beneficial to both you and your new puppy. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved.

Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. The breed was originally developed on the East Coast using American bred German Shepherds, crossed to flock guardians, which were then crossed with European bred German Shepherd dogs. The intent was to develop a superior family companion and protector that was capable of performing a wide variety of working duties ranging from police service, to guide dogs, to search and rescue dogs. The original breeders also wanted to produce a dog which was free of the many health and temperament problems, which has been affecting German Shepherd Dogs. This site has been developed to introduce and provide more information about the King Shepherd breed. The King Shepherd Dog is large, rugged, powerful and impressive, possessing great endurance and agility. These wonderful dogs were selectively bred to be large, loyal and loving family companions and protectors. Despite their size, they are remarkably athletic, having incredible ability and endurance. They are also extremely intelligent and easy to train. While Kings can be protective, they are nonetheless quite gentle and loving with their families and friends. King Shepherds are very handsome dogs that turn heads wherever they are seen. The owners of this fantastic breed tend to be fiercely loyal to their breed of choice. Contact Shelley kingshepherd. Shelley has created and nurtured a breed of dog from a place of love and intelligence. My Bishop has all the qualities I need for a companion and protector for myself and loved ones. Loyal, Independent, Smart and I dare say, a sense of Humor. Shelley has done the same in the private sector. My daughter and family are my true treasures and what better to watch over that treasure than a King. Lobo 2 and Oso 3 never leave our side. At and pounds respectively they have "command presence". When not with an immediate family member, these boys are never far and always looking out for us. Little do they know is that we are always looking out for them. Life is about creating memories and Shelley's boys are part of our family.Bishop Ch. Bustah Bruin. Their mission is a foundation dedicated to supporting Law Enforcement K9 Units across the nation. They envision safe communities and schools patrolled by law enforcement with highly trained K9s ready for action. They believe that a lack of funds should not be the obstacle for any agency working to keep our streets safe. They seek to become the portal of resources and support for law enforcement K9 Units in need. Thanks for visiting the King Shepherd website! Protection plus Love!!! We are a small "Mom and Pop", breeder of top quality, working line, German Shepherds. Established in , we are located in the very center of the state of Colorado in the Rocky mountains. Licensed, and AKC inspected and approved facility. Our goal is to breed Dogs who are top quality, and affordable. Beautiful, healthy, dogs that have stable temperaments. All our dogs hips and elbows have been checked, and passed by the OFA. We do genetic testing to insure none of our puppies will develop Degenerative Myelopathy detailed information regarding DM at the bottom of our "Family Comments Gallery" page. The medical documentation paperwork is available for viewing when you come visit to see our dogs or puppies. We breed for black and tan, black and red, sable, black and bi-color puppies. Mostly we have short coat dogs, but do produce limited numbers of long coat pups. Our dogs are predominantly Czech and German working lines. Trained dogs are a positive addition to the lives of their families. These pups can vary in drives and excitability levels but all are working dogs, capable of doing a job suited to their individual drive levels. We try to make it a top priority to match the right puppy to the right family. Our dogs bloodlines are versatile. We breed puppies who could excel in Search and Rescue, Schutzhund, French Ring or Agility, or be great pets and companions. We breed straighter back, working line dogs.

What is an "original" Australian Labradoodle? The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also know as "Multi-generational" Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. The Australian Labradoodle Club of America was founded exclusively to foster and protect the original Australian Labradoodles that have come directly from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor breeding stock, or their offspring. Our mission is to maintain and improve the quality and soundness of the Australian Labradoodles, and to carefully monitor the further development of the breed. All member breeders are carefully screened to help ensure the future of the Australian Labradoodle. Our member breeders must breed to the highest standards. We have Breeder Mentors to assist member breeders and to help new breeders get off to a good start. If someone in your family has allergies, a multi-generation Australian Labradoodle from Red Desert Doodles should be your first choice. Each of our breeding dogs is fully health tested before they are eligible for breeding. Our puppies all come with a two year health guarantee. Where in the world are our Red Desert Doodles Families? Follow Us On Instagram. Website: Precious Doodle Dogs Conclusion Labradoodle puppies in Utah are easily made available to you with these reputable breeders. So, decide on what you would like in a Labradoodle and browse around for the best option for you. Soon you can have your very own little Labradoodle puppy and enjoy their softness, friendliness, and affection. 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. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Moki stud and Cozzy dam welcomed their first litter together April 12 ! Take home date June 7th. These puppies will be medium-sized lbs fully grown. We have 4 chocolates and 2 caramels and 2 cream-colored coats. They will have amazing wavy fleece, non shedding coats. We start our care for our puppies long before they are even born We follow strict health testing, high quality diets, supplementing with vitamins, probiotics, omegas. We make sure both our dams and studs have the best family lives where they a part of the family, where they are well groomed and taken to the vet for their regular appointments. Happy, healthy dogs produce the best puppies! We know that happy and healthy dogs make the best pets. We are dedicated to rearing the best dogs and the best puppies! We follow the Avidog with Good Dog program religiously so these puppies will be the healthiest, confident, social and bravest puppies around. We are a small Australian Labradoodle breeder and always will be. Our dogs are a part of our families and will never be kenneled. We hae been around breeding our entire lives. We grew up with parents breeding Golden Retrievers. But between kids with allergies and the never-ending shedding of hair, we set out on the search for the perfect dog. After countless hours of research and corresponding with hundreds of breeders over the course of a year, we have found THE perfect breed and the best dogs. Australian Labradoodles check all the boxes. They are low to non-shedding. My kids with allergies have no symptoms when around them. They have amazing personalities, they love their people and want to be with them and please them. They are calm and lower energy. And they are incredibly smart and easy to train. Unlike other doodles, where the dog is a mix between a poodle and another breed, the Australian Labradoodle is multi-generational, with consistent and highly-predictable characteristics and features. You can be confident you'll be getting what you want in the perfect dog. We continue to educate ourselves as breeders the Avidog way and it is important to us that we educate our new puppy owners to ensure these precious creatures get the love, care, and attention they deserve. Contact us to find out more. I wanted to tell you a little about our program and our adoption process. We are a small breeder and plan to stay that way. We will never kennel our dogs. Our breeder dogs live in our homes or in a guardian home where they are a part of the family, fed high quality food, and are loved and properly trained. We are Good Dog Avidog breeders and are continually furthering our education as breeders. We follow the Good Dog Avidog extensive program for our dams, studs and puppies. Our puppies live in our house, with our family. Along with Early Neurological stimulation my 7 kids makes sure these puppies are very well socialized and will be the happiest healthy puppies when they come to your home. They will also start crate training. The puppies will have been on car rides and exposed to many different people and animals, all in a safe environment. We follow the clubs strict guidelines for our dogs to be registered with the clubs and to ensure the best health for our dogs. Please visit Utahlabradoodles. All of our breeder dogs undergo extensive health testing and must pass to be bred. 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 Salt Lake City Utah 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 Utah? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Utah. Unlike lots of other breeds, our Australian Labradoodles are both allergy-friendly and non-shedding. Labradoodles are the perfect pups for people who want to experience dog ownership with a little less of the hassle. Uptown Puppies are cuddly and photogenic, which is probably why so many find successful careers on Instagram. Friendliest Dispositions Aussie Labradoodles are world-famous for their friendliness and calm personalities, making them the perfect companion for whatever life throws at you—from long runs in the park to long naps on the couch, life is way better with a Doodle. Extremely Intelligent Teaching your Doodle is a breeze thanks to their unique heritage that includes ready-to-learn Labrador Retrievers and ultra-intelligent Poodles. The Uptown Family We treat our Doodles like family, and we want to make life with your new best friend as rewarding and fun as possible. Perfect Family Pet Labradoodles can adapt to so many different environments and families. From active people who are always on the move to quiet families looking for a calm companion, to big families with lots of kids or none at all , Labradoodles simply love people! Our Labradoodles even come in four different sizes, making it super-simple to find the right dog for your home and lifestyle. Premium Network of Labradoodle Breeders in Utah Our elite network of Doodle breeders is made of people just like us who love Doodles and share our vision of responsible breeding. Thanks to our network, now our happy, healthy puppies are available in all 50 states—including Utah. Highest Utah Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders adhere to strict standards regarding guardianship of our mommy Doodles, litter count and breeding age limitations, and always ensuring that ALL Uptown Doodles receive the love and care they deserve to grow up happy and strong. When we say our dogs are the pick of the litter, we mean it!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! If you find it cute that your little German Shepherd puppy is biting your hand, think again! GSDs grow-up to become strong and muscular dogs. However, once a GSD pup grows , its biting habits are not cute at all. Trust me on this one. Little pups that bite on hands or chew on toys are doing so because they are developing teeth. Recently, we got a new addition to our GSD family, a cute male named Bobby, and surely Bobbly likes to bite everything. We did order a set of tug ropes for him and it is working. Here is the model that we ordered from Chewy. They chew on toys because their gums feel irritated and to make the pain go away, they bite and chew on things. This behavior during the teething period is very normal and not much of a problem. Another reason that GSDs bite a lot is that they did not receive proper training as pups. When people start to appreciate or encourage GS biting or nipping, they are making it develop this into a habit. Your dog will start to bite at visitors and household items. This is a problem that needs to be controlled right away or else someone will end up getting hurt. If you let your GSD bite and nip, you are letting it take over. Biting and nipping is also a play game for GSD pups. They like to bite other pups in the litter, and this is usually harmless. However, when a pup gets hurt unintentionally, it makes a loud sound. This sound is an indication for the pup that it is hurt, and it is time to stop. There are several ways you can train your pup not to bite or nip. If your pup is biting because of teething, it is not a problem. The first step is to tell your dog that biting is not acceptable. You will do this with the help of voice commands , body language, and hand signals. When you stop playing with your pup the moment it bites, it will associate no play with biting. Repeat this practice whenever your GSD bites or nips. It will help your GSD learn that biting and nipping is not appreciated. Put your other finger lightly beneath its chin. Your pup will not be able to bite you and in this uncomfortable situation, it will try to get your fingers out of its mouth. This is an effective technique that will make the puppy feel uncomfortable and it will avoid biting you. Remember, you will have to repeat this technique several times until your pup completely hates taking your hand in its mouth. Pull your hand backward and pinch your pup in the neck. Do not pinch too tightly. This will make the pup associate pinching with No, and it will soon stop biting you. Be Consistent in what You Teach If you are trying to train your dog to behave and stop biting and nipping, make sure you are doing it with consistency and repetition. While training a GSD, you will need to repeat your technique several times until it starts to learn. Your GSD needs to know that biting and nipping is not acceptable and will upset you. You will also need to become the leader of your dog, not a friend of the same level. When the dog accepts you as a leader, it starts to follow the rules you set and the commands you give. Do not let your puppy bite on your hands during the training process. Reward Good Behavior If your dog is doing well and following your orders, do not forget to offer it a treat. Food treats are a kind of reward that you offer your dog only when it learns something. Make sure you have enough treats with you when you are training your pup. This way your GSD will learn that no biting means a yummy treat. You can also sign-up for our newsletter to get an expert opinion on GSD behaviors. Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.

The hair length is short and the coat lays flat against the body. The Stock coat has an undercoat, which sheds out twice per year - seasonally. It means a coat is 'plushier' than the short coat, and is preferred more in the show ring. It's basically is a longer, fuller coat. This term can be used on a Stock Coat short or Long Stock long coat dogs, depending on who is using it. Image: Chelsey V. The undercoat will be thinner in the summer and thicker in winter. As a puppy, you can not tell how long it will be. Long and full is desired with sort of a lions mane. It will not grow as long or thick in hotter climates. These dogs are stunning and in high demand. It parts down the middle of the back. It is soft, sort of fly away hair, light and very long. There is never an undercoat. It has long hair or feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. A puppy inherits only one gene form each parent. A long coat has been considered undesirable for many decades, and historically there were just short stock dogs used in breeding and selection. This puppy was considered a fault in the litter. A long coat is demonstrated only when a dog is homozygous on gene "l" - has pair of recessive l alleles at this locus. This is done to have more predictability in breeding, as mating between heterozygous dogs is highly unpredictable and has a large variety of possible outcome from producing puppies of pure short stock LL , to carriers Ll and Pure Long Coat ll. While this seems like a great idea to outcross all heterozygous on the Locus L dogs from breeding programs, this will take some time. Many "plush" dogs are very active in breeding, as frankly, they look great and thicker coat is an added benefit to those breeders that still do not accept Long Coat dogs. Large probability is only scary to those that do not understand how to predict the outcome. We enjoy learning and studying and have pretty clear understanding of what to expect in our breeding. Vom Geliebten Haus. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Even though both parents may have stock coats, some of the progeny may have long coats. The chart below shows the possibilities. The pictures below show puppies we have bred. This is the desired coat according to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America Standard and can vary from very short to plush hair with an undercoat. They usually have longer fluffy hair around their ears and on the rest of their bodies and are beautiful animals. Our Karma carries this recessive gene and in our litters the Coated puppies have often been among the first to be chosen! The gene involved in this type of puppy is a simple recessive gene making Coated dogs somewhat rarer. Both parents are required to be coated or carry the recessive gene in order to produce long coated puppies. Even after many years of carefully planned breeding, a few coated puppies are occasionally born into a litter from Stock Coat parents because each parent is carrying the recessive gene. Some breeders try to breed this out of their bloodlines. Long Coat puppies can appear in litters from two stock coated dogs because each parent is carrying a recessive gene. Both of these dogs could be bred to different mates who do not carry the gene, and both could potentially produce litters without any coated offspring. A Long Coat puppy can often be an indication that the whole litter is going to be a good one. This is because the sires and dams who have produced the litter are carriers of strong genetics from their ancestors. Puppies with this recessive gene generally have a strong-boned body structure, are exceptionally good-natured and are of sound character. It is not uncommon to see police and military service dogs that are coated. This is because Coated dogs can be purchased cheaper while still having the genetics to meet the requirements of other working dogs. The reason why a Long Coat is considered a fault is because when used on a farm with mud or herding, their long hair catches and holds more mud, dirt, debris, cockleburs and other clingy weeds and vegetation. There is a little more grooming maintenance and more hair to shed. However, there is a good market demand for Long Coats and we know breeders intentionally breeding for Long Coats. The hair parts down the middle of the back and flows down the sides of the dog. Many have never seen or heard of this type of coat. In the past, they were allowed to participate in Schutzhund, but were disqualified from the show ring and breeding. Regardless, a German Shepherd dog still requires an undercoat or it is considered to be a fault. A Long Coat has a longer coat, with tufts in the ears, feathers on the feet and has an undercoat. Plush Coat German Shepherds do not have usually feathering of any type. A "Plush Coat" is considered very desirable for Conformation. The Plush Coat German Shepherds have a much longer length of hair compared to the standard coated dogs and a much fuller undercoat as well. Their hair is thicker, fuller and just longer overall than a Stock Coat. Often a Plush Coat will carry the Long Coat gene. Note: Until , there were three distinct German Shepherd coat types: smooth haired, longhaired and wirehaired. The wirehaired variety has since disappeared. Remember that regardless the type of coat, a German Shepherd will still shed! A rich diversity of lengths, colors and pigment—combined with a number of varying body types—make the German Shepherd one of the more structurally diverse of all dog breeds. From the short stock coat of the East German working line dogs to the extreme long stock coat of some West German show-line dogs—there is a shape, style and color tailored to you and your lifestyle. There are three main types of hair on German Shepherd Dogs: ground hair undercoat , guard hair topcoat and whiskers. Dogs with both an undercoat and a topcoat are called double coated. The first layer, or undercoat, functions primarily as insulation and is soft and usually of a lighter color. The second layer, or topcoat, consists of thick-shafted, coarse hair. It also has weatherproofing qualities ideal for working and playing outdoors. With rare exception, most German Shepherds have double coats—though the degree of undercoat can vary widely. German Shepherds can have little to almost no undercoat or have massively dense, woolly undercoats that require daily maintenance. Double coats are ideal for maintaining warmth in colder months, but also provide cooling in the summer by keeping heat away from the surface of the skin. For this reason, the shaving of double-coated dogs is not recommended if they have prolonged exposure to the elements. Their coat helps regulate body temperature and protects their skin from harmful UV rays. Shedding German Shepherds, aka German Shedders, shed and shed a lot. Working dogs are required to do their jobs regardless of weather or terrain. To keep their coats in optimum condition—daily, excessive shedding is needed. Unfortunately for us, this means additional brushing and bathing. If you do not own a good vacuum cleaner or sweeper, you will need to purchase one if you have one or more German Shepherds inside your home. In the spring, their thick winter undercoat is shed and replaced with a thinner, cooler undercoat. In the fall, their summer undercoat is shed and replaced by a thicker, warmer undercoat. Care and Grooming Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Bathe and groom puppies frequently so they learn to enjoy—or at least tolerate—the experience. Most German Shepherds enjoy a good grooming and since most love water in any form , bathing can also be a pleasurable experience for them. Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Brushing Most double-coated breeds like German Shepherds need to be brushed regularly—especially if they have a thick undercoat. In the spring and fall when their coats are being blown, daily brushing is important. This helps reduce the amount of hair inside your home and removes their undercoat more quickly. While regular brushing is great for removing loose and dying hair, it also gets rid of mats and tangles—which are common with long- and medium-length coats. Mats are not only unsightly, but they can be painful due to their closeness and tightness to the skin. In southern parts of the country where humidity is high, mats can also lead to skin irritations as the dampness can encourage the growth of skin irritants and other microbes. Check your German Shepherd often for mats—paying special attention to areas behind the ears, between the legs and along the back of the thighs. If your dog is a short stock coat with little undercoat, occasional brushing and bathing is all that is required to keep their coats looking great. Click HERE to learn about elbow hygromas and options for treating and prevent them. Keep your German Shepherd's elbows soft and free of calluses and hygromas. Calming bed for dogs who suffer from anxiety. Water resistant and tear resistant cover. Non-skid bottom. Replacement covers available separately. This short coat, with a thin undercoat, is easy to maintain and can require little or infrequent grooming. Bathing is a breeze as their coats are designed for waterproofing and dry quickly. Water generally rolls off of the guard hairs of German Shepherd Dogs. For all of these reasons and more, short stock coats are the preferred coat type for service dogs, police dogs and military dogs. The dog pictured to the right is an excellent example of a very nice, healthy coated, short stock coat—with minimal undercoat. Medium stock coats have longer, thicker hair on the neck, underbelly and along the back of the thighs. Their undercoat tends to be more dense than that seen in the short stock coats of West and East German working lines. Medium stock coats require additional grooming to keep their coats in optimum condition. Note also that medium- and long-coated dogs do not shed more than their short stock-coat counterparts—the hair shed is just longer. Hair around the face, ears, chest, bottom line and back of thigh panties can exceed four inches in length. This coat requires regular care and grooming. Hair, especially behind the ears and between their rear legs, is prone to matting, and requires daily brushing. The American Kennel Club AKC is one of the few show organizations that still considers a long stock coat to be faulty. Long stock-coat dogs are not only accepted by most German Shepherd Club organizations, including the German SV, but they have become valuable and sought after in recent years—and compete at the highest levels in Germany and world wide. Note also that these coats often continue to grow in length and density with age, so older dogs require additional daily care and grooming. All coat colors and lengths mentioned above are attributes of purebred German Shepherds. However, some breed organizations consider certain characteristics to be breed faults and can be penalized or even disqualifying in the show ring. However, if you plan to show your dog, you will need to study the standard and requirements of your desired show organization s to ensure your dog is eligible to compete and title in the show ring. But the German Shepherd of today actually comes in a variety of colors and patterns as pictured above. The color of their coat is determined by genetic makeup. Genes that are dominant are more common, while those that are recessive are more rare. Black and Tan This is the most common color pattern—which is usually black all over, with tan or cream-colored chest, shoulders, legs and thighs. There are many color variations to this pattern, most commonly—black and red, black and cream and black and silver. Bicolor Another variation to the traditional black-and-tan colored dog are bicolored dogs. Their bodies are predominantly black with a secondary accent color on the lower legs that can be tan, cream, gray or silver. All of these black areas, also called points, on the legs and toes should be richly pigmented. A dog is not considered to be bicolored unless it has these distinctive black markings and they can appear on both dual- and sable-patterned dogs. Sable The word sable means the color of black. The definition of a sable pattern refers to guard hairs being tipped with black. The more guard hairs and the longer the tipping, the darker the dog. Black sables are dogs with heavy tipping and less ground color. Agouti is a term that refers to the banding or grizzling of hair coloration that can be seen in varying amounts in the neck, shoulder, tail, croup and border markings in saddle-marked dogs. Some German Shepherds have so much grizzling in the black blanket or so much undercoat showing, that they are hard to distinguish from sables, and some sables that carry the partially-hidden, saddle-pattern recessive gene have so much of that recessive showing through that they look like washed-out saddles. Melanistic is another term associated with black coloring. Melanistic refers to the amount and density of melanin black pigment found within the hair shaft. Melanistic coloring refers to the masking of a color or pattern with black. Sable-colored German Shepherds are infamous for changing colors multiple times before reaching maturity. Adult dogs can have a completely different coloring and pattern then what was present as a puppy. No good dog is a bad color. Black is uncommon due to being a recessive gene but still prevalent within the breed. Typically, they are completely black with no other colors on the body. Solid White Solid white German Shepherds are not albinos. Their color is the result of a recessive gene that can be carried by any colored dog. When learning about pigment and color patterns, understand that white is not a color. There is no solid-color gene for white. The more pure white a dog, the lighter the color of its masked color underneath. Every white German Shepherd is really a traditional color and pattern covered by a white mask. The blue colors in these dogs replace the black areas of their more common black-and-tan counterparts. Blue dogs often appear as a dusty or somewhat light gray with a gray leather nose. Sometimes puppies are born with very light eyes as well. This, too, is a rare recessive gene and considered by the AKC to be a faulty eye color. Isabella An Isabella German Shepherd, aka lilac or mouse-gray German Shepherd, is the result of a recessive gene dilution giving them a washed-out silvery-blue color. The color is not technically a blue, however. The color is most widely recognized within the Weimaraner breed. Because Isabella German Shepherds are less common and considered faulty for showing purposes, there are fewer reputable and responsible breeders. Select your Isabella GSD breeder carefully and insist on thorough health testing information and lineage information. Liver Liver is another recessive gene leading to liver-colored offspring. In a liver-colored dog, all the black parts are a brown or liver color, ranging from light to dark shades. They might also have light eyes—which typically changes into a darker color with maturity. Panda The Panda German Shepherd is a piebold-colored dog meaning no more than 35 percent of its body is white with mixed patches of black and brown. Research confirms that this pattern is not the result of crossbreeding—but rather a genetic mutation. Ticking vs. Roan vs. Blue Merle Ticking is flecks or spots of color on white areas. Most ticked dogs are born white and develop ticking as they mature. Generally, ticking is heaviest on the legs and muzzle. Roan is a pattern of white and colored hairs evenly mixed over the white areas of the body. Roaning creates a near-solid pattern over a white coat causing a dog to appear dusted with white. If the predominant color of the dog is black, then the roaning can appear bluish in color. People sometimes confuse merle dogs with roan or ticked dogs. Merle dogs do not have a white base coat of color, however, some merle dogs are ticked. The genes responsible for ticking, roaning and merle are dominant so a purebred German Shepherd cannot produce these patterns without being crossed with a dog breed that carries the genes. As we can see from the images above, German Shepherds come in an array of coat colors and patterns—including saddle, blanket, bicolor, sable and solid colors. The organization does not, however, allow dogs of these colors to be shown in the conformation ring as these characteristics are faults according to the German Shepherd breed standard. Dogs carrying the liver gene or the recessive dilution gene that produces either Isabella or blue dogs also carry serious penalties in the show ring. Liver, blue and Isabella are not recognized because of the color of their leathers; and the solid whites are omitted due to the absence of black in the hairs on top of their backs. If you wish to campaign and show your dog in the conformation ring however, you will need to keep with animals with traditionally accepted colors and patterns. Dogs that are liver, blue or Isabella are severely penalized. Reverse Mask and Maskless German Shepherds The reverse mask aka wolf mask German shepherd is not a mix or hybrid, but rather a dog presenting a pattern that appears when both parents carry the gene for this coloring. These patterns date back to some of the earliest German Shepherd foundation dogs and still appear in certain lines, today. Rin-Tin-Tin was another reverse-mask without the stripe German Shepherd. The reverse mask can also present with or without the wolf stripe running down the nose. Some dogs are born with the wolf stripe but it fades with maturity—while others maintain the stripe. Maskless German Shepherds are dogs born with no mask, meaning their face coloring is the same as that of their body. Maskless dogs most commonly present as solid cream, tan, gray or silver. Both reverse mask and maskless German Shepherds are considered faulty lacking pigment for conformation purposes. Impression and Expression Impression — an idea, feeling, or opinion about a dog formed without conscious thought—or formed on the basis of little information. It is well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter. It looks substantial, giving the impression—both at rest and in motion—of muscular fitness and nimbleness. The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility—difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. Aside from overall outline, size and strength of body, the head is the most prominent feature of a German Shepherd. It is here that we find expression. The head should convey strength of character, intelligence, confidence and nobility—even in the very young. In recent years, some show lines have developed a black-face mask in which the entire mantle and muzzle of the dog is predominately black. Any feature that detracts from the overall impression or expression of a dog can be less desirable. Black-faced German Shepherds have become very popular, but some traditionalists believe this pattern can in fact, change the expression of the dog—giving it an intimidating or less approachable expression. Most of the top VA dogs in Germany still carry the traditional mask pattern, but there are many up-and-coming black-faced dogs vying for the top spots. Another example of how color can impact expression is eye color. Light eyes on a German Shepherd overpower other aspects of the dog and change its expression from that of a traditional, loyal shepherd to that of a more elusive, mystic wolf. For this reason, the breed standard calls for the eyes of German Shepherds to be as dark as possible. In the show ring, light eye color—especially yellow hues—are penalized. Become a part of the GSDLiving experience. Upload a photo, pay tribute to your best friend