what should you feed a german shepherd puppy

Our dogs are our family. They are raised on our farm and get to interact and play with our young family, run around with plenty of ample space, and are treated with the utmost service and professional care. Showline West German Shepherds of German Championship Bloodlines are wonderful dogs with even disposition with composed confident temperaments, of great intelligence with wonderful formation of the True breed. With years of personal experience owning our own German Shepherds, we are filled with excitement for our loving customers , to now experience the joy and happiness that these beautiful dogs will give you. Please call us at to inquire about more details, pricing, waiting list and securing a spot on our reserved list. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube page for updates. We continue where man and dog have built a strong relationship that lasts a lifetime. We strive to continuously better the beloved breed through a selective breeding program with excellent pedigrees and proven championship bloodlines. We focus on providing German Shepherd puppies with excellent temperaments, that possess the qualifications of the German Shepherd breed standards and physical health to become top quality members of your family or team. German Shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds. Known for their intelligence , loyalty , obedience and intuitive guardian awareness. We have imported European German Shepherd females with excellent championship pedigrees. In addition , we have a selection of dogs with V Excellent rating and have achieved their own titles. We have also selectively hand-picked our imported breeding studs who are exemplary of the German Shepherd breed standards with their own wonderful pedigrees , VA Excellent Select ratings and accomplished titles. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised in our home as part of our family for a strong foundation in life. Our German Shepherds are seen for health exams regularly , along with treatment as needed throughout the year. Puppies are provided with Vet examination. Prices can vary depending on who the parents are. Do they have photographs of their dogs online? Do they provide descriptions, or can you see photos of parents, grandparents? You might ask to talk to former buyers. These are all good questions to consider when looking for a responsible dog breeder. Not all puppies are cute as youngsters so take that into consideration also. If you want your dog specifically trained for work like Guarding, Search and Rescue, Therapy Dogs, etc. Many times people look for the cheapest price; however, you get what you pay for and this is especially true when it comes to buying a puppy from an irresponsible breeder. The German Shepherd Breeders in Maryland may only breed one or two litters per year and the female dog has just one heat cycle per year. Some breeders will not sell their puppies to just anybody who is interested in purchasing a German Shepherd Dog Puppy. They reserve the right of approval and would like to talk with you on the phone first before they allow you to buy a puppy from them. They may have different methods of doing things and would be willing to show their facilities and adult dogs. You will know right away whether the German Shepherd Breeders in Maryland is reputable or not by how they conduct business and treat their animals. If they are relaxed, relaxed about their dogs and puppies this is a good sign; but if they appear tense, stressed out and impatient for your visit to end then this is definitely not the place for you to buy a puppy from. When most people choose to buy a German Shepherd Dog Puppy , especially as a pet, we want our new furry friend to be part of the family for his entire life. After talking with the breeder on the phone or emailing, have them give you their references. Make sure you call all of them and ask if they were satisfied with the quality of puppies they bought from this breeder. If one person mentions that their dog had health issues then that does not mean it is true for every German Shepherd Dog Puppy this breeder has sold; especially since most breeders do everything Does Your Maryland German Shepherd Breeder Have a Good Vetenarian They Use? Whenever you purchase a puppy from the German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Maryland make sure they give you the name and phone number of their veterinarian. You want to make sure your new pet is healthy and will live for many years before anything serious happens. This is an obvious sign of an unethical. If you ask the breeder if you could meet past puppy owners, see how many people actually say yes. They can quickly cause considerable damage and expensive repairs; not to mention how dangerous that can become if they eat something poisonous. There are different foods that will help him develop into a strong and healthy dog; especially since they grow extremely fast in their first year of life. If your breeder has brand preferences make sure you follow them closely; same goes for how much to feed him each day. If you go against his wishes it could lead to serious health problems down the road. Chew Toys — German Shepherd Dogs like to chew things so make sure you purchase plenty of toys that are made for dogs. The best thing you can do is try to stick with the same schedule each day until your pet gets used to it. You should keep him in one room of the house for a few days and allow him to get used to everything before moving onto another area of the home. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Email: [email protected] 5. They treat their dogs as family members and because of that, they raise them in their home. They want to provide their customers with the best bloodline possible. They want to make sure that you will receive a well-behaved family member and because of this, they train their puppies. They also socialize them so they are prepared for new adventures and also to make your life a bit easier when your puppy arrives. Besides selling puppies, they also offer dog training for any breed of dog that you might own. Their dogs make great family members and besides that, they make amazing guard dogs, herding dogs, and service dogs and you can expect your future puppy to flourish in any environment. They invite you to contact them for any further information. You can visit their website to see other details and pictures of their past and current dogs. Misty Ridge Misty Ridge was founded by a woman named Joyce 30 years ago. The place where her kennel is located used to be an empty farm that was in a bad condition. When she took things into her own hands, she managed to make a perfect place for her dogs. It is heaven on earth, where her dogs can run free, swim, and enjoy nature. She cares deeply about her dogs, which is why she considers them her family. You can expect your puppy to be socialized, trained for the basics, well-groomed, loved, and equipped with all the necessary health certificates. Besides breeding German Shepherds, she also offers boarding, grooming, and training for all dog breeds. She also has a daycare. So, if you are in need of someone to look after your dog for a while and you live in the area, Joyce is a great option. There are various prices out there that depend on a lot of factors. Besides the price of the puppy, you should know that you will have some additional costs, especially for the first year. You need to be prepared, as a German Shepherd sheds a lot and having a quality tool for brushing yours daily will be necessary. Bloodline One thing that you might notice while going through the list of German Shepherd breeders in Maryland, is that all of them truly care about preserving a good bloodline for their dogs. This is one of the biggest things that can determine the price of your puppy. If you choose a puppy that has a champion bloodline going through its veins, you need to be prepared to open your wallet quite a bit. Certifications There are a lot of breeders that will offer you various certificates and pedigrees for your puppy. But, you need to expect that this type of puppy will cost you a bit more. This also depends on how many certifications your dog will come with. Dogs that have less or no certifications will cost you a bit less. Coat Color German Shepherds can come in various colors and some of them are quite unique and rare. One of those unique-looking dogs is called an Isabella German Shepherd. These dogs will be on the more expensive side. Another dog that is on the more expensive side is the silver German Shepherd. Some other colors are red, black, and white. But, the one that is the rarest and the most expensive of them all, is the albino German Shepherd. These dogs are extremely hard to find. When a breeder gets an albino GSD in their litter you can be certain that this dog will be the most expensive one in the litter. If they have a champion bloodline, then this dog will probably cost a small fortune. In Conclusion The first step of buying a dog is deciding on the breed you want, we can see you have decided on a beautiful German Shepherd. The most important thing when buying a dog is to choose a breeder that will provide you with a purebred, happy, well taken care of, and happy puppy. The easiest thing to do is to contact the kennel that you have decided on. The best option is to go and visit them. The thing you have to keep in mind is that a reputable breeder will always gladly give you all the health certificates from both the parents and the puppy. We hope that our list of the best German Shepherd breeders in Maryland and some of these tips will speed up the process of you taking your future German Shepherd GSD to their new and loving home. Read Next:. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. If this is so, then congratulations are necessary, the German Shepherd is an incredible Canine breed that is arguably one of the top most loved and popular dog breeds in the United States. They are highly versatile as they can serve a plethora of different uses including being top police dogs, military dogs, therapy dogs, herding dogs, show dogs, family dogs, and a lot more. There are a lot of different processes that go into picking the right German Shepherd puppy, one of these processes would be selecting a breeder to obtain your puppy. Luckily the popularity of the German Shepherd in states like Maryland is quite high, so it should be easy getting a breeder. However, it is essential that you search for a responsible breeder that combines a genuine love for the breed, good breeding practices, and a healthy socialization and training program. In this article, we have provided you with a list of 10 German Shepherd breeders that are residing in the state of Maryland. These are top breeders that possess good breeding programs that help with improving the breed. We have also attached the contact details for these breeders to help you reach these breeders with ease and make your personal, detailed research, so only view this article as a guide. With that being said, I recommend you read till the very end as we reveal our personal pick from the list below. As stated earlier, they offer two major services which are a top boarding service and an equally good breeding service. As breeders, they are focused on the German Shepherd breed. Joyce Burdette is the owner and top breeder at this fine breeding facility. Their German Shepherd puppies grow to become top conformation dogs, companion dogs, family dogs, and working dogs. The breeding dogs are all tested for genetic health defects like Degenerative Myelopathy and each has their OFA certifications to show they have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. All their dogs are raised on a beautiful acre kennel that also serves as their animal resort in Windsor, Maryland. There, they are given the best of treatment as they get to sleep in comfort, play or socialize and train. They provide adequate activities to keep the puppies mentally and physically fit and each dog is well vaccinated and dewormed to help keep them healthy and safe.

The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? Finding a healthy black Labradoodle puppy. A lot comes into play when breeders attempt to create a specifically black Labradoodle. That is because both the purebred Labrador retriever and the purebred poodle come in three different color varieties. Genetics are difficult to control, and sometimes it takes a few generations for breeders to get the desired color of a Labradoodle right. Especially when working with a first generation F1 black Labradoodle. Where Do They Come From? The Labradoodle craze is believed to have begun in Australia. Enthusiastic breeders went on a mission to create an intelligent, friendly and responsive service dog that had all the desirable traits of the Poodle and the Lab. Still, because the Labradoodle is a newer generation crossbreed, there is a lot of speculation regarding the majority of his roots. The Labrador is an ancient breed who hails from Newfoundland, Canada. The Standard Poodle is of German descent and is believed to be over years old. Both breeds were used as waterdogs for fishing and duck hunting, and were renowned for their intelligence and retrieving abilities. Defining Characteristics of the Black Labradoodle Just about the only thing you can guarantee about what your black Labradoodle will look like will be his color. This is because he is a crossbreed. For that reason, his coat texture, size, weight and more will be left up to chance. Despite having similar temperamental traits, the poodle and the Labrador are very different looking dogs. Both the Labrador and the poodle come in three color varieties. The Lab, for example, comes in chocolate, black and yellow, while the poodle comes in black, brown and apricot. Both breeds are athletically built water dogs, however. So a prospective black Labradoodle owner can expect this crossbreed to be similarly built, with a long tail, floppy ears, and a sweet, expressive face. How Big Is a Black Labradoodle? An adult Labradoodle size is going to depend on several factors. Because he is a crossbreed, your Labradoodle full grown will vary in size. This will be based not only on which genetic traits he inherits from his purebred parents, but also how big each parent breed is. On average, the black Standard Labradoodle is around 15 to .Black Labradoodle Grooming and General Care While the Poodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog who hardly sheds and produces very little allergy-inducing dander in his coat, the Labrador sheds heavier twice a year during shedding season. For this reason, grooming maintenance could vary when it comes to your black Labradoodle mix. They might also shed. On the other hand, if the black Labradoodle has a coat more like his Poodle parent, his fur could be prone to matting and will need brushing a bit more frequently. However, your black Labradoodle will need an occasional bath every few weeks. He will also need his nails trimmed regularly to keep them from breaking and his ears cleaned to keep them from developing infection due to waxy build up. But these are claims based mostly on biased and superstitions, with little to no evidence supporting them. Truth be told, a black Labradoodle is still just a Labradoodle. And he will carry whichever temperamental traits he inherits from his purebred parents. As previously mentioned, the Labrador and the poodle have very similar temperamental traits. They are both family-oriented breeds who do well with children and are incredibly intelligent. However, they are also both highly energetic and athletic. For this reason, a black Labradoodle will more likely than not require a lot of time and patience when it comes to training and exercise. The black Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two very intelligent and active breeds. He could therefore be prone to boredom and becoming destructive if left to his own devices without doggy jobs or activates. For this reason, we recommend early socialization and obedience training beginning in puppyhood. This will help to ensure the black Labradoodle is a well-adjusted and happy dog. Can You Show a Black Labradoodle? The black Labradoodle makes an excellent family pet and service animal when properly trained and socialized. However, he is a newer generation crossbreed and is still not officially recognized by official clubs and organizations, like the American Kennel Club. For those interested in show dogs, purebreds are the best and safest bet. Still, there are purebred standards that dogs used for show require. This means their black Labradoodle offspring is likely going to be similar. A dog with smarts and energy will require a lot of exercise. Anyone considering getting a black Labradoodle crossbreed should prepare to spend an adequate amount of time every day providing this dog with what he needs to be happy and healthy. But what kind of exercise do they require? Daily walks, jogs, hikes and swimming can all serve as excellent exercise outlets. Your black Labradoodle will also enjoy games of fetch, chase, and Frisbee in a large, fenced-in backyard. Keep in mind that the Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two dogs who were bred for hunting. Make sure that you spend plenty of time working on your recall. Now, what about training? The Labrador and the Poodle are both very smart breeds, but with intelligence comes independent thinking. For the most part, the Lab and the Poodle are eager to please and make loyal, hard-working students. So long as the training sessions are kept fun, positive and rewarding for them. This means that your Labradoodle should be simple to train. Health and Lifespan A Labrador Poodle mix is likely to live into their teens. Provided the dog is well treated and that both parents have been fully health tested. This color can do some interesting things! It can fade into at least three distinct, official Labradoodle colors! Go figure!! I have had one of my chocolate girls turn completely Lavender on her body but not the head, then within a year, go completely back to dark chocolate. So, like a good Boy Scout, when you purchase a chocolate Labradoodle, be prepared for anything! All are lovely, but they are almost impossible to predict with any significant degree of accuracy. Once again, be prepared for anything! Chocolate Colors Now we get to the fun part; the color combinations! This is where things get interesting. Partis can come in any color, with either color nose. Some are mostly white, while some have lots of color and less white. The ones that are mostly white are called "Extreme" Partis. The variations are endless and unique, like a snowflake. The colors, such as chocolate, on a parti can change in the same ways that they would on a solid dog. Often confused with "Parti" is a dog with heavy white mismarks or a Tuxedo. White mismarks can be very small or very heavy, or anywhere in-between. The puppy is born either Black or Chocolate and immediately begins to lose the dark color, revealing anything from a cream to a red underneath! The tips of the fur may retain their dark cast, but the dog will present as somewhere on the cream-red spectrum. I have included her picture below showing her in the middle of the changing process. The genetics of color are absolutely fascinating!

He might already have low kidney function from his condition. Or toxins, vaccines, infection or prescription meds can stress his system. Your conventional vet might recommend a prescription diet. Often skin issues can originate from a low functioning liver. It processes everything you put in or on your dog. And that includes antibiotics, medicines, vaccines, flea and tick treatments and the foods he eats. Start by lessening toxins as much as possible and including supportive supplements. RELATED: Spot these early signs of liver disease and what you can do… Hypothyroidism There are several things you can do on an ongoing basis for your dog if he has hypothyroidism. You should give him spring or filtered water and avoid chemicals from the water supply. A diet including glandulars and herbs can support thyroid health and immune function. This will help strengthen his heart and bones. And both of you will need it. Each dog will have his own limitations. For some a brisk walk will be plenty of activity. Others will need some running and games. And how much rest he needs between activities. Your dog may get too winded from running and jumping. Instead, take him for frequent walks in areas with lots of visual and scent stimulation. This will give him the mental and physical exercise he needs. Your holistic vet can address chronic issues your dog may have for life, including heart, organ and bone development issues. It will also help manage pain which could be ongoing. This may be a long-term commitment as you grow with your special needs dog and the changes in his body. And in any event you must not breed a dog with a genetic defect. But sterilizing is not the best solution. These dogs already have growth and development issues. So your dog could be further damaged by removing his reproductive organs and hormones. As with any intact dog, just take measures to prevent accidental breeding. Designate some dog-friendly areas in your home. Your dog will learn the layout. Placing rugs in areas like the top of staircases will help him recognize the area and learn where he is. Install baby gates at staircases to prevent falls. This also limits access to other spaces that are off limits. Keep them in the same place so he becomes familiar with them. Include soft dog-friendly furniture. It might be hard to potty train your dog, so soiling might happen. You might need to keep toys to a minimum. Work with your dog to find toys he responds to and stick with those. Try toys with different movements, size, sound, hardness and softness. Toys might not interest dogs with development disorders because of their sensory impairment. Clean often. But use non-toxic cleaning supplies. Special needs dogs can have a hard time with bladder control and need frequent cleanups. Dog diapers could help if your dog will be alone for a while. But leaving them on for long periods could lead to UTI issues so only use them if really needed. Crate-training might be a better option. Keep his living and sleeping area clean. And that includes blankets and padding. Your dog might have limited movements so you want his bed to be spacious and comfortable. And he should feel secure in his sleeping area. This is his den. He might need help getting up and walking. Repetitive exercises can help him build muscle. He may also need adaptive devices, such as a harness, sling or leg braces for support. Your dog might find it hard to balance or move around. Putting down cheap yoga mats can keep him from slipping and getting injured. Non-slip socks can help provide some traction. Adaptive equipment like wheelchairs designed for dogs are available. These are useful for dogs missing a limb due to the disorder. Your holistic vet can direct you to an orthopedic specialist for further care. Be Aware of Challenging Behavior Special needs dogs can be fearful of everything around them. They can be prone to destructive behavior due to fear and anxiety. Or they can be strong-willed and difficult to train or control. Or they can have separation anxiety when left alone. You will need to use patience and understanding to help care for your special dog. This sets your dog up for success. They can be especially loving. And they can be like perpetual puppies in spirit and behavior. It can be beneficial to your dog to mingle with other dogs. Dogs have unique ways of communicating with each other. And that includes how healthy dogs relate to a sick or impaired dog. Dogs need to socialize. If he has a friendly nature, let him meet other dogs. You can also tell the other dog owner that today is not a good day for them to meet. With play dates at home, you need to take steps to ensure shared areas are clean. His potty training might be weak or he might have discharges. Having your dog wear diapers around other dogs will help. You also need to look within and take stock of your own limitations. It will depend on his needs and whether you already have a dog. Your existing dog can be supportive to you and your new dog. But his triumphs will be worth celebrating. Here are some things to keep in mind as you embark on this journey: Taking care of your special needs dog might not be easy. But all members of your family, 2-legged and 4-legged will share this adventure. You may want to build a support network to help you care for your new dog. Find someone who can step in and lend a hand or a supportive shoulder. .Your level of attention, patience and understanding will be put to the test … and strengthened. You might want to limit interactions with other dogs or children — or encourage them. It will depend on each situation and each dog. And each day. Your special needs dog will thrive with your understanding, love and support. And he may require a lifetime of health care as well. It can be a rewarding experience for both of you. Plus get new recipes delivered right to your inbox. With interests in human and canine nutrition and fitness, she is finally using her journalism background to explore interests close to her heart and her dogs. It is associated with cognitive delays and certain physical characteristics, along with a higher risk of certain health issues. What is Down Syndrome? To answer that question, we first have to understand what Down syndrome is. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits and are grouped along rod-like structures called chromosomes. Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome .People with Down syndrome can have some degree of intellectual impairment, but this varies between individuals and is usually mild to moderate. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC , there are also some common physical features of Down syndrome , such as poor muscle tone and a line across the palm of the hand palmar crease. Genetically, dogs and people have many similarities, but important differences obviously do exist. For example, people have 23 sets of chromosomes while dogs have .Down syndrome happens when there is a full or partial copy of chromosome .But a duplication of all or part of chromosome 21 would have different effects in the two species. Simply put, the answer is no. The condition of Down syndrome has not been described in dogs. Three explanations are possible: These types of chromosomal abnormalities typically lead to early death in dogs. Conditions that Look Like Down Syndrome in Dogs On the other hand, congenital or developmental conditions that have some clinical similarities with Down syndrome are routinely diagnosed in dogs. Congenital hypothyroidism is a good example. This condition is caused by low or absent levels of thyroid hormone at birth and early in life, which results in some combination of the following: Slow growth eventually resulting in small stature Large, protruding tongue. Heart defects present at birth Obstructive sleep apnea Skin problems Thyroid issues People with Down Syndrome life expectancy is shorter, averaging years even with present-day health care. Can a Dog Get Down Syndrome? It is easy to recognize and diagnose Down Syndrome in humans. But what about in dogs? Humans and dogs are different species, and as different species, we may have many similarities genetically but we also have certain distinct genetic differences. For instance, the set of chromosomes [ 1 ] in humans is 23, while dogs have .It means that the duplication of chromosome 21 would have different effects. People with Down Syndrome is categorized by 47 chromosome, including the 23 pairs of chromosomes and extra copy full or partial copy of chromosome .This extra genetic material causes the physical features and developmental changes of Down Syndrome. It means that by default, dogs have 78 chromosomes making it impossible to diagnose them. Down Syndrome in dogs is not common but the chromosomal abnormality lead to early death in dogs. This is perhaps because the genetic testing needed to identify the condition is not done, and is believed not to exist. Dogs may also experience genetic abnormalities which may manifest in symptoms and some medical issues that resemble those of Down syndrome in humans. Even if it would occur, there is no way of knowing how it would affect them. Many have speculated that tigers, apes, canines, and other animals can have clusters of genetic defects that at least similar to Down syndrome. Scientists did experiments and genetically engineered mice to have an extra chromosome. They carried out the same physical effects in mice as can be observed in humans Down syndrome. Such genetic abnormalities cause early death in a puppy. There is no genetic testing that could identify dogs with the canine version of Down syndrome. All of these theories are yet to be proven or disproven. For the meantime, all of us are open to using whichever definition we believe to be most likely. If you notice your dog displaying Down Syndrome-like symptoms, it is essential that you have him checked by a vet. These are some of the more obvious symptoms of Down Syndrome in dogs and other health issues to look out for: Abnormal facial features — Dogs with Down Syndrome have dwarf like features including a broad head, short neck, upwardly slanting ears and eyes, small chin but large tongue, and a flattened face. Hearing loss — Although Down syndrome is hard to notice in dogs, you will see that your dog is too slow to follow or react to commands. Eye problems — Dogs with Down Syndrome may be at risk of developing a cataract in one of the eyes. Pet parents should look out for cloudiness in the eyes. If you notice cloudiness, it may indicate the formation of a cataract. Bloody Discharge — Your dog may have other conditions causing him to have a bloody discharge from the rectum. Behavioral issues — If your dog is suffering from Down syndrome, he may show certain odd traits such as shaking, howling, wailing, or whining and may also have challenges with tooth eruption. He may also be difficult to feed and tend to have a hard time controlling his bladder. Do note that some dogs struggling from difficult health issues could become aggressive. Keeping a close eye on his body language is vital in this scenario. If this behavior becomes worse, take your dog to your vet immediately. Random pain — Dogs with Down Syndrome have abnormally developed internal organs and some body parts can be affected. While a genetic abnormality is possible, dogs with Down Syndrome may also have other health conditions including: Congenital heart disease — Heart defects are common because in such cases, your dog has an abnormal circulatory system. Congenital Hypothyroidism — Your dog may have a malfunctioning thyroid leading to poor metabolism. Congenital hypothyroidism, which is similar to Down Syndrome, is caused by low or absent levels of thyroid hormone at birth and at early in life. Down Syndrome in dogs may have a lower temperature compared to other dog breeds. Pituitary Dwarfism-This autosomal disorder is caused by a growth hormone deficiency. In addition to a small physical stature, dogs like German Shepherds and other wolf hybrid breeds with pituitary dwarfism suffer from a host of health conditions including kidney failure. Clinical signs associated with congenital hydrocephalus include spastic or abnormal walking, changes in behavior, and failure to potty train or learn basic commands. Portosystemic Shunt—Portosystemic shunt is an abnormal vessel that allows blood from the intestine of the animal to bypass the liver and lead to liver failure. Growth Hormone Deficiency All of which could cause symptoms similar to Down syndrome. For dogs, the symptoms similar to Down Syndrome or the so-called Canine Down Syndrome is extremely rare. Should your dog live to be an adult, you may notice irregular features. Dog owners should look out for deformed or missing legs or short limbs. Down Syndrome in dogs can cause their nose to be dry and warm at all times. Your dog may also have missing patches of fur or excessive shedding or shaking. If you suspect your dog is showing this behavior, do not be tempted to diagnose him on your own. There may be a chance that your dog will have a shorter lifespan than usual. They also cannot perform duties such as being guard dogs. Dogs with Down Syndrome may also suffer from bloody discharge from the rectum and owners should keep kids and sick family members away from it. For dogs with genetic disorders like Down syndrome, taking care of them is vital. Some remedies can be implemented to decrease the severity of symptoms and improve their quality of life. The only way to care for your special needs dog is to feed him with a special diet. Offering your dog with proper diet such as high-quality dog foods rich in protein can help repair and strengthen wasted muscle. Avoid foods containing preservatives, meat products, and fillers. In his condition, he will be more prone to allergic reactions from certain types of foods. You may be advised to put his food in a freezer first to have all allergens destroyed. To help relieve thyroid issues in dogs suffering from Down Syndrome, you could offer your dog fresh water with a low amount of salt. There are many medications and supplements to manage each. Be patient and understand that your dog needs special attention, special care, and love. Your vet may recommend checkups and vitamins for your dog to ensure he stays healthy longer. Down Syndrome in dogs may cause finicky eating habits, so vitamins recommended by your veterinarian will help increase their appetite. If you notice high amounts of hair loss, you will need to get him sunscreen to avoid sunburns. If your special canine friend hurts himself, clean the wounds as soon as you can to prevent skin infections. Canine Down Syndrome is similar to Down Syndrome in humans. Due to their poor eyesight, owners should avoid physical barriers as their dogs may injure themselves by bumping into furniture or certain objects. Dog-safe cleaning products may be recommended. Your vet should evaluate the symptoms to find out if there is an underlying health condition that might resemble this disease. Special needs dogs require a comfortable sleeping area as their abilities and senses may not enable them to move around much. If your special dog is not potty-trained, you will want to keep other dogs from consuming its poo, as this could lead to bacterial infection. When placed in the right home for special needs, your dog can lead a happy and improved quality of life. If you feel that you do not have the ability to care for a special needs dog, look for a rescue that caters to animals with special needs to ensure that it gets the care it requires. Physical Exercises for Dogs Suffering from Down Syndrome Down Syndrome in dogs can cause abnormalities in their growth and development. Proper exercises with precautions are required to avoid any second anomaly. They may suffer from muscle, heart, and limb problems, so they cannot perform and withstand hard exercises. Work on some suitable physical training for your special need dog to ease the symptoms of Down Syndrome using the following: Tug of war: Various tug of war toys for dogs comes in different sizes. You can select the right size for your dog and teach him to pull it straight back to help strengthen his leg muscles and improve poor muscle tone. Walking: A short walk is also an effective way to support the muscles, bones, and heart of dogs suffering from humans Down syndrome. Roll-over: Tempt your pooch to eat the treat by putting it near the nose, then shift the treat in a clockwise and circular movement so he will move sideways. This exercise is easy and helps to build strong muscles. Scratch dance: A pet dog will wriggle by dynamically scraping the upper and the lower end portions. It is the best exercise and fun activity for dogs suffering from Down syndrome. This exercise also strengthens the hind legs. A pet parent should be familiar with all symptoms that resemble this condition in order to differentiate when the dog is suffering from other conditions such as cognitive dysfunction and when he is dealing with Down syndrome. You are advised to get a correct diagnosis of this genetic disorder from a professional vet. So dog owners should take measures to prevent their special canine friend from having the aforementioned disorder and several other canine health issues. If you have a dog with special needs, that is perfectly okay. While there may be no cure for Down syndrome in dogs, there are possible ways the condition can be managed. Find out more about other dog issues here. Kathy R. Conner Kathy is a licensed veterinary surgeon and writer in Miami. With over 20 years of experience in deal with pets and small animal, she hopes to share her knowledge on what she learned throughout her life to all animal lover. On her free time, she likes to attend Yoga and Meditation classes. Can dogs have Down Syndrome or autism? Do dogs have Down Syndrome? Or, what about autism? On the other hand, autism is a known canine neurological disorder. Dogs with autism have trouble following social norms, learning commands, and controlling their behavior. Can dogs get Down Syndrome? Down Syndrome occurs when a human fetus develops an extra set of chromosomes; more precisely, chromosome .The additional chromosome set causes certain physical and mental changes in the fetus, and a human born with those features is said to have Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome affects one in every Americans. Not exactly. Although congenital disorders are prevalent among dogs, veterinary experts have never come across a dog with Down Syndrome. Some say that dogs with extra chromosomes never develop beyond the fetal stage, while others believe dogs are impervious to this condition. Can a dog be Down Syndrome? A dog with visible congenital disorders and behavioral issues may lead you to think that he or she is suffering from Down Syndrome, but these dysfunctions are not related to the disease. An extra pair of chromosomes causes Down Syndrome, and no dog has ever displayed this characteristic. Questionable breeding of dogs, incest, and incompatible partnering have given rise to genetic issues in dogs. Shady breeders often ignore breed compatibility and the health of the offspring before partnering dogs. Their goal is to replicate unique features and coat colors that fetch them a profit, and they aim to produce as many dogs as possible to maximize their earnings. Dogs with unique physical characteristics, such as the tiny size of teacup dogs, shrunk snouts of Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus, and shortened tails of Bulldogs , also fetch a higher price. Since these traits are unnatural, they cause dogs to be born with numerous congenital issues and genetic disorders—not that different from Down Syndrome. Can dogs have Down Syndrome symptoms? You may be aware of some distinct signs of Down Syndrome in humans, and seeing one or more of those symptoms in your dog may prompt you to say: I think my dog has Down Syndrome. Nevertheless, there are certain traits dogs with genetic abnormalities share with humans with Down Syndrome. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Welcome to our pack! How to tell if your dog has Down Syndrome? Down Syndrome is a congenital disorder, meaning it develops even before birth. So how can you tell if your dog has Down Syndrome? In humans, Down Syndrome is quite obvious. A person with this chromosomal dysfunction will experience stunted growth, cognitive impairment, flat-looking facial features, and round eyes. Down Syndrome dog symptoms Although Down Syndrome is unheard of in the canine world, vets regularly observe signs of Down Syndrome in dogs. These congenital issues appear shortly after birth and may look a lot like signs your dog has Down Syndrome. However, congenital disabilities are different from chromosomal abnormalities in how they develop, but they can still appear pretty similar. Some such symptoms are: 1. Unusual facial features The extra chromosome in humans gives them distinct facial features. People take these features as a sign of Down Syndrome. Stunted growth Similar to how Down Syndrome stunts physical development in humans, some dogs are genetically predisposed to growth issues. All dogs grow at a predictable rate during their first year. Malformed limbs Abnormal, unequal limbs are a handicap that will trouble your dog throughout his or her life. Malformed limbs are a congenital disorder that gets passed on to future generations. Vision impairment Misshapen and asymmetric eyes can make it hard for a dog to focus or see correctly. While this condition can arise in many breeds, Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus are especially prone to eye issues. Poor coordination The cognitive dysfunction prevalent among humans with Down Syndrome often appears in dogs as well. But poor coordination or reduced brain function may not just be a genetic issue. Some dogs suffering from an ear infection , toxicity, or dehydration may temporarily lose balance and show uncoordinated movement. Heart diseases High cholesterol, poor diet, and lack of exercise can subject any dog to heart diseases, but we are talking about congenital heart diseases here. Breathing problems Some dogs suffer from breathing issues like collapsed trachea , laryngeal collapse, stenotic nares, and others. Dogs with misshapen snouts often experience difficulty breathing. Behavioral issues People with Down Syndrome display poor mental development; some dogs have trouble growing up mentally as well. These dogs often show unusual behavior patterns and have difficulty keeping their composure. Autism is one such genetic issue that prevents a dog from maturing mentally. Disproportionate features Symmetry is a sign of genetic fitness in dogs and humans. However, some congenital issues keep the body features from developing symmetrically. Like Down Syndrome in humans, some dogs have uneven limbs, abnormal ears, unequal eyes, and crooked features. Hearing impairment Deafness is another genetic condition that some dogs are more prone to than others. When breeders try to produce rare coat colors and physical traits in puppies for profit, they often ignore the health complications such puppies will carry. Hearing impairment is prevalent among dogs that suffer from congenital weakness. Difficulty learning People with Down Syndrome have difficulty performing in academics and often have a lower IQ. Some dogs also suffer from this issue as their brains never develop enough to help them learn. Skin and coat issues Dogs with genetic conditions sometimes suffer from hair loss, mange, skin discoloration, and skin allergies. But the truth is, Down Syndrome is a human disorder that is far more than odd facial features. Most animals that people claim to be suffering from Down Syndrome are facing some other physical deformity. In contrast, we have a very limited understanding of genetics, DNA, and chromosomal issues in dogs, cats, and other pets. But many dogs suffer from congenital problems that may seem like Down Syndrome. Do Bulldogs have Down Syndrome? Bulldog Down Syndrome is perhaps not totally unheard of. After all, many people think that every Bulldog is a Down Syndrome Bulldog. A Down Syndrome French Bulldog, for instance, is called such because of its predisposition to breathing issues, eye infections, and hemivertebrae. But although these problems match those of Down Syndrome, their reasons are different. The same goes for other dog breeds. Down Syndrome Chihuahua Chihuahuas have a really long lifespan and can live up to 20 years. Unfortunately, they suffer from a hoard of diseases they carry from birth. Pitbulls are famous for their kind nature but notorious for their viciousness at the same time. These Pitbull dogs are pretty healthy but can suffer from genetic illnesses , mainly affecting their vision, skin, and nerves. However, you can still find congenital disorders in this dog breed. Down Syndrome Husky While huskies are a healthy breed with few health issues, they do suffer from eye diseases like cataracts, leading people to believe they can have Down Syndrome. However, as with other dogs, no one has proven a husky to have Down Syndrome. Do Pugs have Down Syndrome? These dogs get their signature punched face from generations of selective breeding. Unfortunately, this practice has made Pugs susceptible to several genetic abnormalities. They are predisposed to numerous infections and disorders. Despite their flatter snouts and a tendency for brachycephaly, these dogs are just as healthy as any other dog breed. Shih Tzu with Down Syndrome Shih Tzus have a fair share of birth issues that put them at risk of various health complications. Due to the similarity of these genetic disorders to Down Syndrome, Shih Tzu is often thought of like a dog with Down Syndrome. If you have, you may be mistaking him or her for another genetic disease. Many people confuse some other genetic issue with Golden Retriever Down Syndrome, but veterinary experts have yet to come across a Down Syndrome Golden Retriever. Rottweiler with Down Syndrome A Down Syndrome Rottweiler may refer to a Rottweiler who shows problematic behavior or some other odd physical trait. So, can dogs have Down Syndrome? Fortunately, no. Although your pet pooch may exhibit symptoms of Down Syndrome, those are likely due to some other congenital disorder. Dogs with special needs warrant a bit more care and looking after, but they can be just as loving and adorable companions as other dogs. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Keep calm! German Shepherd puppy training is fun and a great time to bond with your new dog! Instead… Follow these puppy training tips to break down your training into manageable steps that are easy to teach and train. German Shepherd puppies are brilliant! And as they grow, they become the most loyal canine friends. Teach Them Handling Skills While your dog may enjoy gentle caresses and hugs from you they will also need to learn other important handling skills. Think about the grooming your dog will need and how the vet might handle your pup in the future. These are all areas where they will be touched in the future. Handling skills involve intentional, purposeful touch that acclimates your dog to uneasy situations in the near future. Ignoring fear and stress signals such as cowering, lip their lips multiple times, turning their head away, even shaking will only teach your dog to fear that object. Fear can cause your dog to become aggressive or suffer from anxiety. Never, ever try to become the alpha! Instead, learn to become their favorite teacher and speak their language. It also prevents undesired behaviors. Think of positive training in terms of showing, teaching, influencing, and trusting. These terms build trust. Focus on the Good Things Some puppy owners all too often think about punishment and discipline as their first steps in training. What you want is to focus on catching your dog behaving well — and reward that! If you see your puppy chewing on the right chew toy, then praise them. When you see them look at you, offer them a treat for paying attention. When you find your dog lying down being quiet and calm, pet them gently and offer them verbal praise. The more you focus on the good things, the less your dog concerns itself with doing bad things. Call them to you or offer them a better option that is what you prefer, then praise them for choosing the right thing. Pick one skill at a time to practice, and build upon their success. Think of the easiest way for your dog to understand the command and stick to the same word. You can begin basic German Shepherd obedience commands from your own home, even! Small bits of training, spread out in multiple sessions throughout the day, is better than an hour-long session. Aim for the 5-minutes worth of training using 4 to 5 sessions daily. This is where brain games and brain training come into play. You can make up your own brain games for their mental exercise or, even better… Signup for an online course that teaches fun Brain Training for Dogs using that positive, reward-based training you read about earlier. Using the unique intelligence of your German Shepherd puppy this brain training program helps your dog to learn not only their basic commands but also to play fun games that work on good behavior. Training games help your dog to learn impulse control, basic commands, and to watch and listen to you. What games do you play with a young dog? Try these great German Shepherd puppy training games to give your 8-week-old puppy a head start! Include different games throughout the day in between your training sessions to give your dog a break and have fun with them! There are 5 critical focus areas in which you must train your 8-week old German Shepherd appropriately. Here is the most important training that you need to teach your new puppy so they enjoy a successful life with you. Keep in mind, your young dog is unable to hold its bladder for more than a couple of hours at 8-weeks-old. They simply lack the muscle control to hold their bladders any longer. Instead, opt to train your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy using positive methods and watching for the natural times that your dog chooses to eliminate. Adjust the times as necessary to avoid any accidents in your house and help keep your puppy to their unique schedule. Early morning: Let your pup outside first thing every morning to let them relieve themselves. After breakfast: After its morning breakfast meal let your dog back outside. Let them walk around and sniff to help encourage them to explore and let them stretch their legs. Before and after lunch: Let your puppy outside before and after their lunchtime meal. Eating stimulates the bowels and your puppy needs to got outside at least every 2 hours. Before and after dinner: Remember that eating stimulates the response for your puppy to eliminate. So, before and after every mealtime your puppy should be let outside for a walk and sniff. Before bedtime: Your puppy needs to relieve themself before they settle down for the nighttime. This is a good time to let them have a long sniffing exploration and to really explore a safe area. During the night: Yes, your puppy will probably need to go potty during the night. You might hear them whine and cry to get your attention. Remember, they cannot hold their bladders for more than 2 hours! After naptime: Take your puppy out for a potty break after naptime, as soon as they wake up. Keep repeating the same routine. Your puppy will soon catch on, but this generally takes weeks or even months. The more diligent you are about preventing accidents the quicker your puppy will learn housetraining. Never, ever punish your puppy or rub their nose in it for punishment. This may stress them out and cause even more accidents. Socializing your 8-week-old German Shepherd means that you must provide your dog with interesting and positive interactions where they feel safe. This helps give your young dog confidence in its environment. German Shepherd Dogs are extremely loyal and have a tendency of apprehensiveness with strangers. Socialization helps ensure that your puppy not only grows a strong bond with you without developing over-protectiveness but also learns to trust that you have their best interest in mind and will keep their experiences as positive as possible. German Shepherd puppy socialization training tips: Without their full set of vaccinations, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases. However, consider taking your young dog to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized. This reduces the risk of becoming sick and helps your German Shepherd become a confident, well-adjusted, and friendly dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization source , even before your dog receives its full set of vaccines, as lack of socialization is detrimental long-term. Every new interaction or must be followed with a reward — a tasty treat! This ensures your puppy has positive associations with new experiences, people, and other dogs. With the proper socialization training, your puppy should become eager to explore new places and meet new people and animals. Taking your German Shepherd puppy to new places exposes them to different people, dogs, sights, and sounds. As a puppy, you can help teach your German Shepherd important social skills through intentional training moments that are positive and allow your puppy to develop their confidence in social situations. This is where bite inhibition comes in useful. Bite inhibition helps your puppy to not only control what they bite but also how hard or soft they close their jaws. It teaches your dog how to properly apply force with its mouth without hurting you or anyone else. How to Teach Your Puppy to Bite Without Hurting You To teach your puppy not to hurt you with their nipping and biting do your best to not let them get to this energy level. If you know your puppy tends to bite you when you play with them too long, then cut your playtime short. If they tend to bite and nip you when they are tired, then have them go to their nap area sooner to rest. Puppies also tend to bite you when they are cranky from not eating soon enough or when they want attention. You can get up and leave the play area for a few moments. Return once they are calm. Never use only your hands for play. You should have a few puppy-safe chew toys around to grab quickly to offer your puppy during play. If your puppy nips or bites any of these areas, the game is immediately over. Get up slowly and calmly and leave. Only return when they are calm again. Offer your puppy their chew toy when they are too excited to play softly with you. Encourage them to find their toys and bite them instead of you. Never yell or punish your puppy for play-biting and nipping. Doing so can lead to anxiety, aggression, or your puppy fearing you. Even though German Shepherds are one of the smartest dogs, learning and teaching bite inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. You might even walk to walk around with one of their toys in your pocket to help reinforce the right behavior offering them the chew toy when they decide to nip your ankles or bite your legs. Continue with your bite-inhibition training as long as it takes for your dog to learn to use its soft mouth. This could take months, but soon they will master the art of a soft bite. But, crate training your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy can improve the speed of their house training and accustom them to times they may need to be in their crate such as during travel or at the vets and groomers. Crates are also a useful area for your dog to have their own private space when they want alone time or are stressed and need some quiet. Choose a crate that gives your dog enough room to turn completely around, stand comfortably, sit upright, and lie down easily on their side with their legs stretched for rest. The best crates grow with your German Shepherd and allow you to partition the space off to suit their size. Offer them a treat or even their meal in their crate to help them develop positive associations with it. Start closing the door when they are inside for just a few seconds at first. Then, open the door and let them out calmly. Continue to increase the time your puppy stays inside the crate, working up to longer and longer times. This may only encourage them to cry and whine harder and louder when they want out. Instead, wait just a couple of seconds for them to be quiet, and let them out only when they are not crying and whining. If they appear too stressed or panicked, let them out immediately! This also encourages your dog to seek out the crate when they want their private space and time alone, as they will know where to find their crate. Avoid placing a blanket over the crate since puppies chew and are extremely active. Your pup could accidentally pull the blanket inside and hurt themselves by either wrapping it around their neck or choking on it. Place the crate in an area away from drafts and out of the direct sun so they get too cold or too warm. The best way to do this is to practice leash skills at home first. After they are comfortable wearing their leash around the house, you can work on the skill in the backyard, front yard, or on the sidewalk outside. A good time is during their favorite meal. Only leave them on your dog for a short time to gauge their reaction. If they seem fine, place your puppy into the harness and attach the leash. Offer them praise and a reward for letting you leash them. Now, let your puppy drag the leash around the house so they know how it feels to wear it. You can play with them a bit, or even better have them follow you around which simulates an outdoor walk but indoors. Remove the harness and leash if your GSD puppy becomes too upset and agitated! Keep it upbeat and positive! Now, introduce your puppy to a short walk outdoors in the safety of your backyard. Let your puppy wander around while you hold the leash. They may begin to pull. Get their attention by calling their name and showing them a treat to lure them back to you gently. Reward them every time they come to you while on the leash. Should they ignore you then offer them the treat to lure them to you after giving the command. Try kneeling or squatting down to get on their level when you give them the command. It seems to get their attention better. You can even slap your leg or clap your hands to entice them back to you. Always ensure that your puppy is not stressed by their new harness and leash. Some owners prefer to use a collar for leash training. If this is your choice then only choose life-saving break-away collars since your puppy could get hung up and seriously injure themselves if their collar catches on something during their outside walk. Your dog can learn the basic commands with a bit of training. If you have time to train basic commands and are still focusing on the core areas of raising your German Shepherd puppy, then follow these helpful articles that will put your puppy on the right track to obedience training. Although any German Shepherd dog is trainable, they are very strong and powerful animals. If you start out with a puppy, you have the opportunity to shape and mold its personality and develop your relationship early. German Shepherds can be very protective of their family members, so you want to socialize your puppy early in puppyhood. This will get them used to interacting well with a wide variety of people and animals, which is essential. This will be a big dog, and you want to prepare the dog when they are young and small for future grooming and veterinary visits. They may need nail trimming, ear cleaning, temperature taking and other procedures. These procedures will be difficult to accomplish should your full-sized adult German Shepherd dog object. You will need to train them to sit, stay, and heel, in addition to house training them. Your puppy will not understand your commands immediately. Have patience with your dog when they don't do exactly what you ask right away. German Shepherds love to learn and they are highly motivated to follow your commands if they are rewarded with treats. Pet your puppy while they're eating, as long as they do not stiffen and stop eating when you are petting the puppy. If the puppy stiffens, stops eating or growls, you have to deal with this aggressive response immediately. Do this by removing the food bowl and feeding the dog by hand. There is no bowl to guard. Make the bowl no big deal. If a piece of food is dropped inside, let the puppy take it and praise them. Then feed nearby again. The bowl will not always have food inside. Gradually increase the amount of food you drop in the bowl as you stand or sit there with the puppy. You can also add high value treats like roasted chicken breast into the bowl if your puppy seems to need more reassurance that you bring goodness to the food bowl. Resource guarding can be a very serious symptom of fear aggression and, if you are seeing this in a puppy, it needs to be addressed ASAP so it does not escalate. You can gradually ask the puppy to look at you to get more food, then sit and wait for more food, etc. .The humans controls the resource of food and rewards the puppy for good behavior. You still praise your dog, just not offer a treat each time. If you are working to modify a command to create a faster response, add in treats again to shape the behavior until they have it down. Then start using treats to reward truly outstanding performance. Do not yell at your pet. Learn to recognize when you are losing patience and stop the training session on a happy note. Your dog can sense your frustration in your body language and tone of voice. Try another day when you are both fresh. If you continue to have problems, get a professional trainer involved. Typically, as puppies are first learning commands, one adult family member will be responsible for training. Later, when the puppy is consistent and understands the basics, other members of the family can participate in formal training. It is important for the dog to understand that not only one person in the household is to be obeyed. Your puppy should be weeks old and started on their vaccine series for this first class. There are puppy preschools designed for puppies who have not yet finished receiving all of their vaccines. The school will have certain requirements for enrollment and you will likely have to provide proof of vaccination. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. It is not recommended to take it from its mother and littermates because it starts its socialization and gets the first experience of biting inhibition from them. When you take your doggy home, follow the advice of your breeder and veterinarian. In addition, you need to measure and weigh your pup to be able to follow its growth. You should also think about crate training your dog from the first days of staying at your home. Start potty training as soon as possible. However, be very careful about the first walks. The immune system of a little German Shepherd is too unstable and vulnerable to many infections. It has already received all the nutrients it needed during its first month. You can opt for high-quality puppy kibble or homemade food. However, you should avoid poor-quality products and cheap kibble that is full of chemicals. If you are planning to feed your pet with kibble, it is recommended to moisten it with goat milk or fresh water if this milk is unavailable. Giving it cow milk is not recommended. Give your puppy 1. Try to formulate a consistent feeding schedule with the same hours for feeding. You should have two bowls for your German Shepherd. One is for food and the other for water. Your puppy needs a lot of water, so you can leave the water in the bowl to let it drink whenever it wants. As for food, do not leave the leftovers in the bowl. Your puppy cannot control how much it wants to eat, and it can lead to overfeeding if it eats something every time it sees its bowl. You need to make the feeding schedule work. However, do not feed the puppy two times per day. It is too young for that, so it can overeat too and have severe digestion problems. You should teach it to recognize the connections between commands and responses or responses and consequences. Foremost, you need to set primary anchors. It means that you should develop certain reactions to your actions to teach the puppy to follow you, eat food or receive treats, and sit. Your clapping hands, whistling, or a specific word can be such anchors. Avoid setting anchors that your puppy will feel as similar. The next training step is establishing authority. Your puppy should understand that you are its guide, and it will help you when you start training more complex commands. Your little pet should understand that you are its pack leader. So, the first thing to teach is to follow you. Praise the puppy if it does everything correctly, and never punish it if it does not understand you. Early socialization training is also very important. However, early exposure of your pet to many people and unfamiliar things may lead to psychological problems. That is why start socializing your puppy gradually. You can take it on short visits to your family or friends. Keep socializing your doggy every day but in small portions of positive experiences. Start potty training as soon as you bring your GS puppy home. Show it where you want it to do its business, in the backyard or garden. Ensure that this area is quiet and fenced. It has to be something soft like grass or mat. Establish an exact schedule for going potty. Taking the puppy outside is the first thing you need to do after it wakes up in the morning. Then, follow the schedule after each meal, playing, and before going to bed. Keep the puppy out of biting and nipping. You should not beat or punish it anyway. Though, teach the puppy to avoid severe bites on the hands and legs. You can arrange timeouts for it if it bites too harshly. For example, if it bites your hand while taking a treat, withhold the next treat until it understands how to take it gently. Reward it with a treat when you see that the little one understands what you want of it and denies biting at all. German Shepherds are very clever, so they understand the explanations very quickly. Be patient while training your little dog. It will be trained enough to understand how to control itself by the 10th week. Therefore, your boy will grow as tall as inches cm , while the little girl will be inches cm tall. How much does a 2 month old German Shepherd weight? GS puppies gain weight at this age very quickly. They tend to double it in comparison to the first month. Your male doggy will approximately weigh pounds kg. If you have a female puppy, its weight will be smaller — pounds .How much to feed a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy? You can give your puppy .How often should I feed my 2 month old German Shepherd? You should feed your pup times per day. Never make a feeding schedule of 2 times per day because your doggy can overeat and have digestive problems. How much exercise does a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy need? Little GS puppies are very energetic, so they need a lot of exercises. However, they are too young for hard exercise and training. The sessions can be very short about minutes or less and not too intensive. Can I walk my 2 month old German Shepherd? Yes, you can walk your puppy in the backyard or any other fenced space after it is vaccinated. Though remember that your little doggy cannot go on long walks yet, so never make its walks too long. Another thing to consider is that it cannot follow you yet, so try to avoid going for walks in the open spaces and streets, or your pup can get lost. Learn a lot about the breed before you decide to adopt this dog. You also need to know that your pup will have enough space for its activity and energetic behavior. You also need to consider your budget. Get prepared that your doggy will bark, whale, bite and chew everything around. However, you will also get a lot of joy, playing, laughing, and loyalty. German Shepherds are very intelligent, and you will get the best friend for many years if you are patient and consistent enough during its first days at your home. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Check Price on Amazon 7. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If a command is not executed the first time, show your puppy what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they can learn to obey the first time the command is made. Unless he is born with a hearing defect that is detected by a vet, your German Shepherd puppy has a perfect hearing ability. If you do, you will train him to be anxious or eventually create the idea that shouting is the norm. Otherwise, your poor puppy will be confused about what you expect and will not know how you want them to behave. Eventually Wean Your German Shepherd Puppy off Training Treats At some point, your puppy needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when the time is right. The AKC Pet Insurance advises that this should be done when your dog has repeatedly performed the behavior or trick that you are training him in and mastered it completely. Nonetheless, your German Shepherd puppy is still a dog in training, and you need to replace the treat with some emotional reward. With these ten principles, you can now apply them to the key areas that your German Shepherd puppy needs to be trained in. It might be training for a sport in their early adult years or training to cope with an age-related life change. But, as a puppy, there are five key areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week old German Shepherd. In the next section, I tell you what training entails for each of these areas. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to train a German Shepherd , I have just the article for you. Humans become social through socialization. Canines become social with training. Humans who are well trained in the first years of life will be well behaved as adults. If you want some scientific proof to the rule that training your German Shepherd young is important for their adult life, here are two key findings from this study: Dogs that are well socialized as puppies will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. These dogs learn better how to play games with humans than those without proper socialization as puppies. Your dog will learn social skills throughout his life, depending on the situations that he gets exposed to. As a puppy, however, you can teach your German Shepherd socialization through intentional training moments in the family, in public places, or by sending the pup to socialization classes. Taking your German Shepherd out often to social places like parks exposes him to other people and dogs. This helps the canine to be less wary or aggressive around strangers. Being among other puppies also helps your little furry friend build confidence. The earlier mentioned study indicates that puppies can learn social skills better when put in socialization classes with other puppies. So, what does that mean? Usually, dogs will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and once they have had their meal. Use that natural rhythm as a reference for his daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing up their sleeping space and will usually hold it. Nonetheless, young puppies might be unable to do so. If they learn that a relief walk happens first thing in the morning, though, they will eventually make an effort to hold it. Walk your dog after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to give him time to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. In addition to this for dogs that have had their shots , a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent your dog from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you are out, find someone to help you stick to the routine. The best dog crates will give your pet enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, you might go for the standard metal model with either a single or double door. I like the double door one as it gives you more options where you can place it in your home, and this one has a carrying handle which makes it easy to move around. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel check Amazon for the latest price are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog, and this one even meets the cargo specifications for airlines. Here are five key things you should practice when crate-training your German Shepherd puppy: Keep your puppy in the crate at night always. Letting him into your bed should be a complete no. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets the idea that there are other options. You will likely hear your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy cry during the first night, but after that, he will be just fine. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house and for his own safety, such as cooking in the kitchen or in exceptional situations like when you have visitors. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate. A blanket and some toys will offer some comfort for your dog. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained to. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Contrary to the widespread idea that we should yelp like a puppy and quickly withdraw our hand or clothing when a puppy bites, the best way to teach your German Shepherd puppy that his bite hurts is to cry like the human that you are. If you watch the video, you will see what I mean. Do the same when they bite your clothing and other parts of the body like ears or hair. While doing this training, let your dog differentiate between a bite that hurts and one that is soft and part of playing. Also, training your puppy to soft bite is best initiated early in the first six weeks and continued until 4 to 5 months, or when they have mastered the art of soft biting. The best way to do this is to practice at home first before going out for walks with your pup. Consider the following steps: Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to a harness or collar and leash by first allowing him to get used to it gradually. You can play with your puppy for a while and give a treat before or soon after removing the leash. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your puppy to short walks outside on a leash. Your puppy will get distracted during the walk and may try to pull. Do not pull back; instead, stand firm until he gives up and walks back toward you. Timing is crucial here. Reward every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of walking on a leash is perfected. You can learn how to stop a GSD from pulling on the leash in this article. Final Thoughts 8-weeks-old is a good time to train a German Shepherd puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, leash training, and not biting. To successfully train your puppy in these areas, you must train them young and follow other good training principles like not shouting at your puppy, being consistent in your commands, and rewarding obedience to commands, among others. Always bear in mind that a puppy is just starting. So, be patient and begin with basic commands before introducing the more complex trick commands. Good luck with your new friend! Related Posts You May Like:. Check Price on Amazon 1. If the puppy is running towards you, for example, you can begin clapping. For now, notice the following and set distinct anchors for each. For the time being, you should avoid anchors that are excessively similar to one another. My German Shepherd Willow — 8 weeks old 2. As you train your pup to understand and respond to more complex commands, this helps eliminate a lot of the resistance. As a result, the initial step should be to persuade your German Shepherd to stick close to you. We all know that dogs are descended from wolves, and wolves follow the pack leader, which means you! Needless to say, when training a 2-month-old German Shepherd puppy, you have to incentivize him to follow you. You need to build a positive reinforcement loop and let your German Shepherd establish an association between following you and receiving a pleasant experience. You can start taking unexpected turns and training your puppy to follow you despite the direction changes after your puppy has become motivated to follow you for the reward. At a young age, you should take your puppy out and about and allow him to utilize his sociability potential. One method is to pay visits to friends and family. You might also look for a dog park and take him there. Keep in mind that your pet is still learning to walk with you and follow directions. Make sure your pup has a positive experience outdoors. It is worth noting that you should socialize and introduce him to new experiences as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training You should start potty training your German Shepherd puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. I cordoned off a small area and added some bark chippings. Even now, my GSD will not go on the sidewalk or hard surfaces! It has to be grass or somewhere soft. Next, you need a potty training schedule. Always take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, hourly, and before retiring to bed. Deter Biting If you read my blog regularly, you know that I am opposed to punishment-based training. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can actually cause aggression. If someone recommends such negative approaches, you should approach a qualified trainer and learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy not to bite. Instead, you can wait until your GSD bites during a positive activity before stopping it. This will help to anchor the result better. For example, if your German Shepherd puppy fiercely takes a treat from your hand, you can withhold the second treat until he learns to take it gently. You should act upset and convey that what he has done has hurt you. Use positive reinforcement to encourage proper behavior by rewarding with a treat. Your German Shepherd will quickly learn that good behavior is rewarded with good things. Puppies must continue to learn bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the work their mother taught them and what they learned from their littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You have to use your best judgment and patience when training your dog. In general, by the tenth week, your German Shepherd will be mature enough to understand self-control. Teach the Heel Position While your 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy will initially follow you, adjusting your pace will soon have him walking alongside you in the heel position, on your left side, without a leash, harness, or fear of punishment. To train your puppy to assume the natural heel position, use a clicker, whistle, or use your voice as a marker. Chances are, at first, your German Shepherd will also try to change his pace to walk behind you because of habit. You can avoid this problem by walking where your dog is used to. Assume Positions on Command — Sit, Down, Stand Your 3-months old German Shepherd puppy is now old enough to learn how to sit, stand, or hold a down position. You can teach him these new skills and assume a heel stance, which you have previously taught him. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included a clicker, whistle, clap, or saying a specific word to show your German Shepherd is doing a good job, generally followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! You used to whistle when your GSD approached you; now, you must whistle for him to start his run. This is the foundation of his recall training. While this allows the puppy to be more social when visitors arrive, an adult dog must learn to walk outside without behaving badly. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training, for example, teaching him to touch a target with a specific part of his body, such as his paw or nose. Remember that your German Shepherd may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. I recommend teaching your German Shepherd to use his nose to touch your hand. This is a fantastic bite substitute! Hand targeting is a fun way to train your dog to trust you while also getting him to use his brain! Begin by asking him to sit for a few seconds and gradually extend the time. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your German Shepherd to public parks and he has watched other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your GSD may not bring the toy back to you for a second time, but he will eventually figure it out. Over the next few weeks, you can gradually turn it into a game of fetch, rewarding your puppy with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of German Shepherd training, you will continue toilet training to a degree of independence. Maintain a regular schedule and match your walks with his natural cycle to coincide with when he needs to go. Teach Your German Shepherd to Walk on the Leash Learning to walk on a leash outside is an important element of dog training. Use it to control your German Shepherd and then test his ability to follow commands off-leash. Many dog owners will opt for a rear attached harness. How to Train a 5 Month Old German Shepherd Puppy You have adequately socialized and trained your dog to recognize and associate attention, toys, walks, and food as rewards. Your five-month-old German Shepherd puppy is now ready to be put to the test for general obedience and the capacity to deal with distractions. These could be other dogs, strangers, or animals like squirrels or birds. But, if you introduce distractions gradually, your five-month-old puppy can deal with them. You must be ready for your dog to run ahead of you now! Assume, however, that you have built a strong bond with your puppy and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay close to you and prove his loyalty by sticking by your side. The good news is that all of your past training will make it easier for your dog to obey your instructions. Conclude Potty Training Your German Shepherd has had months to learn how to tell you his need to go potty. He has also likely refined how to hold his bladder instead of peeing on the floor. As a result, if your dog makes a mess, you can express your displeasure through your body language. But, all dogs can still have the odd accident up to one year old. Besides, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened. This is known as either excitement or submissive urination. During this time, energy levels increase , especially in larger breed dogs. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old German Shepherd can exercise for one hour if you split his walks into two thirty-minute sessions. To train your 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy, start with two commands that will be most useful. As previously stated, you will be exercising your German Shepherd much more frequently from now on. You can teach these commands or tricks in any order from six months onwards until your German Shepherd is a well-trained adult. This is an excellent skill to teach your GSD and is one of the commands taught to police and protection dogs. This is a difficult task, but your German Shepherd will eventually master it if you practice and keep consistent. The eighth month is the time for training your German Shepherd to go to different places upon hearing your command word. This could be for practical reasons or to maximize the intellect of your dog. Alternatively, you might spend the ninth month teaching him a fun party trick! Teach Your German Shepherd to Spin By dangling a tasty treat in front of your German Shepherd and moving it in a circle until he starts to spin, you prime him for a command anchor. After a week or so, you teach your German Shepherd to follow your finger without first using a treat. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he obeys the command. By the third week, you should be able to ask your dog to spin without using your finger to guide him. It might take an extra couple of weeks, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your dog to learn previous commands better. You can train him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now develop this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your one-year-old German Shepherd continues to learn at the same rate as he has since he was six months old. What will change is that your dog will interact with other people more frequently. You can train him to do additional tricks to give him a more appealing presence. This will deter him from merely barking for attention. You should also review previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. If anything, this is the period where you tailor his training to your convenience. But now is the time when your German Shepherd must learn to be harmonious with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your doggo to be compatible with modern adult life within reason. Do not be alarmed if you have an month-old German Shepherd who appears to have had no previous training! Start by establishing authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your new friend recognizes your authority and sees you as his leader, treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. You should train your German Shepherd puppy for short and frequent sessions, ideally minutes, several times a day. As your puppy grows and matures, you can gradually increase the duration and complexity of the training sessions. What are the most important commands to teach my German Shepherd puppy? Come command helps to call your puppy back to you in case of an emergency or when you want to end a play session. Heel command teaches your puppy to walk calmly beside you on a leash, and Leave It command helps to prevent your puppy from eating something harmful or dangerous. German Shepherds are a highly trainable and intelligent breed. Your job as a trainer becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule in place and stick to your routine. My month-by-month German Shepherd puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and make him into the cherished companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below.

Nov 19, German shepherds are very beautiful dogs that are also very expressive. One behavior that is adorable to watch them do is a head tilt. Many German shepherds start tilting their head as a young puppy. Even before their fuzzy ears are up, they will rock their little heads back and forth in the most amusing way. As their ears grow, their head tilts just keep getting more adorable. As they tilt their head, they will often sport many different facial expressions that makes them look as though they are thinking hard or asking a question. As a German shepherd owner, you may have learned some of the things that will trigger your shepherd to tilt their head and be able to anticipate when the tilt is coming. You might even be able to trigger them to do it for you. Often a certain sound, such as a particular voice you speak in, a noise, or even when they are concentrating on something will cause them to tilt their head. Have you ever wondered why German shepherds tilt their head more than some other breeds? It is believed that German shepherds tilt their head to capture and decipher more sound. They Tilt Their Head to Pin Point Sound German shepherds were built for hearing and their ears are in the perfect upright position to maximize the reception of sound. IG ragnar. IG penny. Dogs can also detect softer sounds than people can. The loudness or intensity of a sound is measured in decibels and some sounds too quiet for people to hear. Those sounds are given a negative decibel rating. IG lex. But they will also tilt their head at sounds people can hear, too. At times, German shepherds may also tilt their head for reasons other than capturing sound. Often, they will tilt if they have a medical problem, such as a stroke, ear infection, or dirt or debris in their ear. So, if you see them tiling their head at odd times or walking with their head tilted, you should check with your vet. Some owners believe that German shepherds will also tilt their head for other reasons other than capturing sound. These may include: Paying attention to their owner Looking past their muzzle When they are trying to decipher meaning Trying to communicate IG hello. We hope you enjoy this article, please feel free to pass it along to your friends. And we all know that German shepherd head tilt is one of the cutest gestures they can do. But have you ever wondered why dogs tilt their heads? For all we know, there might be disturbing facts about German shepherd head tilt. After all, German shepherds tilt their heads more often than with other breeds. There are actually many people that made theories behind this behavior. Some involve hearing, while others are concerned with vision. So read this blog post and learn about the possible reasons behind German shepherd head tilts so you can be sure of what to do when you encounter the behavior again. Because German shepherds have a particularly better sense of hearing than most breeds. Not only that, but they can also pinpoint the source of a certain sound. When German shepherds concentrate on locating the source of the sound, they tend to tilt their heads. Just like with radios of sorts, they need to adjust the position of their ears so they can perfectly hear the sound. Contrary to common belief, German shepherds try to understand what you say despite having different languages. A prime example of these gestures is hand signals. As previously said, German shepherds are intelligent. One of the ways to communicate with their owners is head tilting. Take note, however, that German shepherd head tilts can mean different things depending on the situation. A recent study discovered that those with flat faces and big mouths are the ones that often do head tilts. Presence of Ear Problems This might be the most serious case of German shepherd head tilts. It is known that head tilting is one of the signs of ear problems or infections. This complicates things since you may find it difficult to separate German shepherd head tilts involved with ear problems and those that are not. You can distinguish between the two with these following signs: Tilting their head repeatedly in an abnormal rate have a high likelihood of having ear problems. Head tilts without communicating with you or without any strange sounds can also mean your German shepherd has ear problems. You were shown six possible reasons behind head tilts. You even learned about the issue with ear problems. But look at the bright side, it may also be just a simple habit of your dog. The bottom line is, you are now aware of the reasons why dogs tilt their heads. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. There can be a number of reasons why dogs do the head tilt, but the most likely reason is that you are reinforcing the behavior in your dog. But their regal heads and tall, cocked ears definitely make the head tilt look more pronounced and deliberate. We will talk much more about this and other reasons in this article. Watch a German Shepherd Do the Head Tilt Just in case you are brand new to German Shepherds and you are not quite sure what all the fuss is about, you can watch this YouTube video of two adorable German Shepherds tilting their heads. These reasons are not mutually exclusive. Your dog may actually tilt their head for all kinds of different reasons depending on what is going on at that time. Reason 1: You think it is cute and respond positively How do you react when you see your German Shepherd doing the head tilt? Do you run to get your camera to take a picture or video? Do you drop whatever you were just doing and devote your full attention to your dog? If you were your German Shepherd, all of these behaviors would likely be good enough reasons to do the head tilt again and again. They could be having trouble because of a medical issue as we will talk about in the next few sections here. Or they could simply be evaluating your body language , tone, facial expression, or other cues from every different angle. While this period of evaluation might look to you like your cute dog is just tilting their adorable head, your dog may be using their senses to pick up extra cues to take their direction on what to do next from you. Reason 3: Your dog has an ear infection One commonly overlooked possible reason for why a dog might tilt their head is because they have an ear infection or ear mites. While you are more likely to see your dog tilt their head to rub their ears on something because they itch, you may also see the head tilt happen if there is fluid build-up or infection in the ear causing swelling in the ear canal and trouble hearing. Reason 4: Your dog is having trouble hearing well Speaking of trouble hearing, sometimes a German Shepherd may cock their head to one side to pick up frequencies or to gather more information about what they may be hearing. Dogs can hear very well and use their hearing not just to detect the source of a sound but also its location, distance, and threat potential. When your German Shepherd cocks their head, this may help the ears communicate a lot more information about what they are hearing from you or around you. Reason 5: Your dog is having trouble seeing clearly Still, another frequently overlooked reason why some German Shepherds may cock or tilt their head is due to vision needs. One canine biologist hypothesized in Psychology Today that dogs with longer muzzles, like the German Shepherd for instance, may do more head tilt behaviors because they are trying to see without having their own muzzle blocking what they see. In this study, the biologist noted that more owners with long muzzle-type dog breeds said their dogs frequently tilted their heads. This is another possible reason why it might be important for your German Shepherd to tilt their head to try to get the best and clearest view of what they are looking at. So when your German Shepherd tilts their head and makes those mournful puppy dog eyes at you, it is likely not a coincidence. But it all gets a lot more interesting when you start to look at why your particular dog tilts their head at you. Now that you have a deeper understanding of the current theories about why dogs tilt their heads at their people, you can start to take a closer look at when your German Shepherd does this and what it might be linked to. Does your dog want treats? Is it almost time for dinner or their evening walk? Is your dog trying to work out a particular tone in your voice or a look on your face? Do you have something yummy that smells delicious and your dog wants to try it? Could it be your dog is frustrated because you are patting the family cat? These are all interesting questions to ponder as you and your dog continue to get to know each other better. You may even want to jot down what happened just before you looked up to see your dog tilting their head at you to start to connect the dots. When to Have Your Dog Checked By Your Veterinarian Earlier here we mentioned that sometimes the head tilt behavior may actually be due to medical issues with vision, hearing, or discomforts such as infection. This can be particularly important to know about if your German Shepherd is in their senior years of life, a time when eye cataracts, skin and ear infection or hearing loss can be more common for many dog breeds. Dogs may not have human language abilities — although it sure would be wonderful if they did! The more you can learn about all the different reasons your dog may do the head tilt, the better you and your dog can talk to each other about what you each want and need. His gait exhibits diagonal movement, i. The limbs, therefore, must be so similarly proportioned to one another, i. Every tendency toward over-angulation of the rear quarters diminishes soundness and endurance. The correct proportions of height to length and corresponding length of the leg bones results in a ground-eating gait that is low to the ground and imparts an impression of effortless progression. With his head thrust forward and a slightly raised tail, a balanced and even trotter will have a topline that falls in moderate curves from the tip of the ears over the neck and level back through the tip of the tail. Temperament, Character and Abilities Sound nerves, alertness, self-confidence, trainability, watchfulness, loyalty and incorruptibility, as well as courage, fighting drive and hardness, are the outstanding characteristics of a purebred German Shepherd Dog. They make his suitable to be a superior working dog in general, and in particular to be a guard, companion, protection and herding dog. His ample scenting abilities, added to his conformation as a trotter, make it possible for him to quietly and surely work out a track without bodily strain and with his nose close to the ground. This makes him highly useful as a multipurpose track and search dog. In general appearance, it should be dry with moderate breadth between the ears. The forehead when viewed from the front or side is only slightly arched. It should be without a center furrow or with only a slightly defined furrow. The cheeks form a gentle curve laterally without protrusion toward the front. The width of the skull should correspond approximately to the length of the skull. Also, a slight oversize in the case of males or undersize in the case of females is not objectionable. The muzzle is strong; the lips are firm and dry and close tightly. The bridge of the nose is straight and runs nearly parallel with the plane of the forehead. Dentition Dentition must be healthy, strong and complete 42 teeth, 20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw. The German Shepherd Dog has a scissors bite, e. An undershot or overshot bite if faulty, as are large gaps between the teeth. A level bite is faulty, as the incisors close on a straight line. The jaws must be strongly developed so that the teeth may be deeply rooted. Ears The ears are of medium size, wide at the base and set high. They taper to a point and are carried facing forward and vertically the tips not inclined toward each other. Tipped, cropped and hanging ears are rejected. Ears drawn toward each other greatly impair the general appearance. The ears of puppies and young dogs sometiems drop or pull toward each other during the teething period, which can last until six months of age and sometimes longer. Many dogs draw their ears back during motion or at rest. This is not faulty. Eyes The eyes are of medium size, almond shaped, somewhat slanting and not protruding. The color of the eyes should blend with the color of the coat. They should be as dark as possible. They should have a lively, intelligent and self-confident expression. Neck The neck should be strong with well-developed muscles and without looseness of the throat skin dewlaps. The neck is carried at an angle of about 45 degrees to the horizontal. It is carried higher when excited and lower when trotting. Body The body length of the german shepherd should exceed the height at the withers. Dogs with a short, square or tall build are undesirable. The underchest should be as long as possible and pronounced. The ribs should be well formed and long, neither barrel shaped nor too flat. They should reach the sternum, which is at the same level as the elbows. A correctly formed rib cage allows the elbows freedom of movement when the dogs trots. A too round rib cage disrupts the motion of the elbows and causes them to turn out. A too flat rib cage draws the elbows in toward one another. The rib cage extends far back so that the loins are relatively short. The abdomen is moderately tucked up. The back, including the loins, is straight and strongly developed yet not too long between the withers and the croup. The withers must be long and high, sloping slightly from front to rear, defined against the back into which it gently blends without breaking the topline. The loins must be wide, strong and well muscled. The croup is long and slightly angled approximately 23 degrees. The ileum and the sacrum are the foundation bones of the croup. Short, steep or flat croups are undesirable. Tail The tail is bushy and should reach at least to the hock joint but not beyond the middle of the hocks. Sometimes the tail forms a hook to one side at its end, though this is undesirable. At rest the tail is carried in a gentle downward curve, but when the dog is excited or in motion, it is curved more and carried higher. The tail should never be raised past the vertical. The tail, therefore, should not be carried straight or curled over the back. Docked tails are inadmissible. Forequarters The shoulder blade should be long with an oblique placement the angle at 45 degrees and lying flat against the body. The upper arm joins the shoulder blade in an approximate right angle. The upper arm as well as the shoulder must be strong and well muscled. The forearm must be straight when viewed from all sides. The bones of the uppper arm and forearm are more oval than round. The pasterns should be firm but neither too steep nor too down in pastern Approximately 20 degrees. The elbows must be neither turned in nor turned out. Hindquarters The thigh is broad and well muscled. The upper thigh bone when viewed from the side joins the only slightly longer lower thigh bone at an angle of approximately degrees. The angulation corresponds roughly to the forequarter angulation without being overangulated. The hock joint is strong and firm. The hock is strong and forms a firm joint with the lower thigh. The entire hindquarters must be strong and well muscled to be capable of carrying the body effortlessly forward during motion. Feet The feet are relatively round, short, tightly formed and arched. The pads are very hard, but not chapped. The nails are short, strong and of a dark color. Dewclaws sometime appear on the hind legs and should be removed within the first few days of birth. Color The color of a german shepherd should be black with regular markings in brown, tan to light gray, also with a black saddle, dark sable black cover on a gray or light brown case with corresponding lighter marks , black, uniform gray or with light or brown markings. Small white markings on the forechest or a very light color on the insides of the legs are permissible though not desired. The nose must be black with all coat colors. Dogs with little or no masks, yellow or strikingly light eyes, light markings on the chest and insides of the legs, white nails and a red tip of the tail or washed out weak colors are considered lacking in pigment. The undercoat or base hair is always light gray, with the exception of that on black dogs. The individual hairs are straight, coarse and lying flat against the body. The coat is short on the head inclusive of the ears, the front of the legs, the feet and the toes but longer and thicker on the neck. The hair grows longer on the back of the fore- and hind legs as far down as the pastern and the hock joint, forming moderate breeching on the thighs. A too short or molelike coat is faulty. The long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog The individual hairs are longer, not always straight and above all not lying close to the body. The coat is considerably longer inside and behind the ears, on the back of the forearm and usually in the loin area. The breeching along the thigh is long and thick. The tail is bushy with slight feathering underneath. With the long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog, a narrow chest and narrow overstretched muzzle are frequently found. The long coated German Shepherd Dog The coat is considerably longer than that of the long-smooth-coat. It is generally very soft and forms a parting along the back. The undercoat will be found in the region of the loins or will not be present at all. A long coat is greatly diminished in weatherproofing and utility and therefore is undesirable. Faults Faults include anything that impairs working versatility, endurance and working competency, especially lack of sex characteristics and temperament traits contrary to the German Shepherd Dog such as apathy, weak nerves or overexcitability, shyness; lack of vitality or willingness to work; monorchids and cryptorchids and testicles too small; a soft or flabby constitution and a lack of substance; fading pigment; blues, albinos with complete lack of pigmentation, e.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. Coat Trim Cost of Veterinary Expenses You can expect to pay for the vet each year so that your dog can remain up to date with their shots. An annual visit can also make sure your dog is healthy, but you may want to take your dog in more often if they get sick or have other problems. You can get pet insurance to help cover the cost of these vet expenses. A good breeder will provide you with not only a healthy, well-socialized puppy but also support and guidance as you navigate life with your new furry friend. But with so many breeders out there, how do you know who to choose? Look for a breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC or other reputable organizations and who has experience breeding golden retrievers. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed and will provide you with references from past clients. A good breeder will provide support and guidance as you adjust to life with your new pet. They should be available to answer questions, offer training advice, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. Look for a Breeder with Experience Experience matters when it comes to breeding golden retrievers. A breeder with years of experience will have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and will be able to provide you with valuable insights and advice. They will know how to breed for good temperament, health, and other important traits that make golden retrievers such beloved family pets. This includes information about any genetic diseases or health issues that may be present in the bloodline. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes health and genetics, you can help ensure that your new puppy is healthy and happy. Some breeders may insist that you participate in these events if you want to purchase a puppy from them, but this is not a requirement. Choose a breeder who respects your lifestyle and preferences and who is primarily concerned with finding a good home for their puppies. The right Golden Retriever breeder depends on you as a person, but any good breeder should be able to answer any questions. You may come across the perfect puppy online, but do not commit to any dog until you can visit in person. The dog may be totally different than in their photo. In some cases, you may find that the dog does not exist. Some scammers can take photos of other dogs and collect payment for the dog. But the scammer will disappear before the buyer realizes the dog is not theirs. To avoid these puppy sales scams, always visit the dog in person before you sign a contract or make a payment. Make sure the dog looks like the pictures and that they have the temperament that you want. If you are working with a breeder, be sure to check their credentials and ask for references. You can speak to other dog owners who have gone through the breeder. Finally, do not rush into getting a dog. Conclusion While Golden Retrievers can be moderately expensive to keep over the ten to twelve years that they generally live, there are many ways that people can reduce the cost of keeping them. One of the best ways to save money while raising a Golden Retriever is to get quality pet insurance. As long as their owners are prepared to offer them financial security in the form of good food, a few well-loved toys, and some regular veterinary care, Goldens repay the devotion a hundredfold in terms of loyalty and affection for their families. Check out our list of Golden Retriever Rescue Organizations , they are listed by state. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. White Labradors are a very attractive and distinctive looking dog. But are White Labradors really Labradors? Are they healthy and happy pooches or does their pale color result in health problems? Read on to learn everything you need to know about these wonderful dogs and why most of them make excellent family pets or show pooches. He did have some qualities that I thought were different from the many Labs I raised over the years, but I would not consider it outside the norm for a Labrador Retriever. Different Types Of White Labradors On the most basic level, white Labradors are Labradors that have a coat that is white, or almost white, in color. But their coat takes on this unusual pigment for a Labrador for a number of different reasons. These dogs are the same as all other Labs; it is just that both of their parents had the right genes to give them a coat that approaches white. They will have the same black or brown nose and eyes as other Labs, as well as the same intelligence and temperament. They will also face the same health risks, but no additional ones due to the color of their coat. Yellow Labradors come in a range of colors, from fox red, to golden, to cream, and of course, white. White is just another natural variation within the spectrum. White Labrador dogs are usually specifically created by breeders, who have been broadening the color range of Yellow Labradors for decades in order to widen their market. White Labradors are more likely to be English Labradors than American Labradors because of the history of the breeding. This means they will also have the stockier, broader look of the English Lab. Albino Labradors Unlike Yellow Labradors with a white coat, which are healthy dogs that do not differ from their darker colored brothers and sisters, some White Labradors are the result of albinism. This is a genetic condition universal throughout the animal kingdom, but rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, The result is a pooch that has white hair and extremely pale skin. They are usually easily distinguishable from Yellow Labs that are white as they will also lack pigment in their eyes and nose. Their eyes are often a distinctive red color, though they can also be blue. Albino Labradors often develop health problems as a result of their lack of pigmentation. They are very susceptible to sun damage, which can easily result in tumors and skin cancer. Their eyes are also very sensitive to the sun and can easily become damaged. They are also often born blind or suffer from eye deformities. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish these pups from albino dogs, but they will have normal eye color. This condition is also relatively rare among Labradors, as it is a recessive trait. It can come with similar health concerns as the areas of the skin that lack pigment can also be easily damaged by the sun. But they are not at the same risk as far as the eyes are concerned. Silver Labrador White Labradors should also not be confused with Silver Labradors , which occurs as a result of the dilution of the darker pigment of black or brown dogs. They can be registered with the Kennel Club as Chocolate Labradors, but they are excluded from shows. But just like Yellow Labradors with a white coat, these Chocolate Labradors with a silver coat are natural within the color range of Labradors and they do not have different personality traits or health conditions as the result of the color of their coat. Considering this, and the fact that White Labradors are relatively rare among Yellow Labradors, they are not always easy to come across. To find a White Labrador, you will need to speak with a breeder that has chosen color as one of the traits for which they are controlling. However, it is not advisable to work with a breeder who is only or primarily controlling for color, as health and temperament are still more important features in a dog than color. Bear in mind that English Labs look different; they tend to be stockier and broader in the chest and face. They also have different personalities. They tend to be more playful and silly, but have less energy. They have become very popular dogs on the show circuit, while their silly and friendly personality makes them great family pets. It can be difficult to tell if a Lab will grow to be a true White Lab when they are a puppy, as lots of Yellow Labradors are born with a very pale coat, which gets darker as they age. Of course, while seeking out a white Yellow Labrador might be something you want, seeking out an Albino Lab or even a Leucistic Lab is not advisable because of the related health conditions. However, that is not to say there are not Albino Labs out there that need someone to adopt them and give them a loving home. American Or English Labrador? As seeking out a White Labrador probably means choosing between an American and an English Labrador , it is worth considering the differences between the two. Both dogs are friendly, good-natured, and companionable, and also intelligent and highly trainable. This is why they make excellent companion dogs and working dogs. But both were originally bred as retrievers. American Labs are those that have been bred for working, while English Labradors have been bred for conformation, which means they have been bred to more exactly align with the definition of the species, which is why they are an excellent choice for show dogs. They are called English Labradors because they are significantly more common in the UK. Meanwhile, you guessed it, the working-style Labrador is more common in the USA. But, while this is how the breeds are characterized, this is far from prescriptive, and you will often encounter English Labs as working dogs and American Labs competing in shows. So, these are not strict definitions but rather a useful guide to help you distinguish between the two extremes of the breed. They are all registered as Labrador Retrievers with the Kennel Club. That said, there are some key differences to look out for. American Labs are usually a bit taller, ranging from .This height difference results because American Labs tend to have longer legs, while English Labs are stockier. But American Labs are also heavier than their English brothers and sisters, ranging from 70 to pounds, while English Labs are usually between 60 and 85 pounds. The appearance of the two dogs is also different. English Labs tend to look heavier and more substantial, with a barrel chest. They also have a wider head and a fuller face with a shorter muzzle. The neck is thicker, and so is their coat so they also shed a bit more. American Labs also tend to have more energy than English Labs, and as a result, it is often thought a firmer hand is needed to keep American Labs under control. For this reason, they are often considered better as working dogs, and when they move into the home, they need a very active family. Because English Labs are considered calmer and quieter, they are more versatile as a family dog and also easier to train for shows. I would consider him an American Lab based on looks although his breeder said he had both American and English in his ancestry. His energy level was closer to that of an American Lab, but his goofy temperament more closely resembled an English Lab. Yes, White Labradors are very rare. Albinism is extremely rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, White Labradors that are pale Yellow Labradors are also rare. White Labs are at the extreme color range available for these pooches, and it is required that both parents have and pass on the genes that allow for this extremely light color. Exactly how big your Labrador will get depends on a lot of things, but color is not one of them. As a general rule, if your White Labrador is an American Labrador, you can expect them to weigh between 70 and pounds. English Labradors, while they look stockier, tend to be lighter, between 60 and 85 pounds, They also tend to be smaller than their American brothers and sisters. A healthy White Labrador will have the same life expectancy as the majority of Labrador Retrievers, so about 12 years. However, White Labradors that are Albino will have a significantly lower life expectancy, as they are much more likely to develop serious medical conditions, such as skin cancer and tumors. Are White Labradors Purebred? Yes, White Labradors are purebred dogs within the Yellow Labrador Retriever category, and they can be registered for shows and with the Kennel Association as Yellow Labradors. Do White Labradors Shed? All Labradors shed , and they tend to shed a lot. They have a double coat, which means they have a lot of hair to leave behind. It can be especially challenging in the shedding season, which is Spring and Fall. So, yes, you will be finding those beautiful white hairs all over your home. He definitely shed more than any other dog, Lab or otherwise that we had in our home. Do White Labradors Turn Yellow? Some of the hair of a White Labrador, especially around the tips of the ears, can turn yellow with sun exposure. In addition, many Yellow Labradors may appear white when they are born, but their hair will darken over the first few months of their life. So, you cannot always tell if a Labrador will be white during the first few months of their lives. Final Thoughts When breeders refer to a White Labrador, they are referring to a Yellow Labrador that has been specifically bred to have very pale fur. This is more common among English Labs than American Labs, but they are a naturally occurring phenomenon that occurs from the breeding process. These dogs share all the same wonderful traits as other Labradors. They are friendly and intelligent, and they make excellent family dogs, working dogs, and show dogs. However, these White Labs should not be confused with Albino Labs or Leucistic Labs, which are dogs with rare genetic conditions, meaning they lack pigment in their skin. These dogs can suffer from serious health issues as a result of sun exposure. While there are dogs out there of this variety that need a loving place to call home, it is not the same as adopting a White Labrador. They do need special care and attention. The first time Archer met his new companion was also the first time the little girl ever spoke. Do you have any experience with White Labradors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. And there is no surprise as to why: labs are friendly and desirable to families of all sizes. Are White and Yellow Labs Different? The short answer is no: white and yellow labs are not different types of dogs. However, they obviously are different in color due to the variation of their coats. White labs are essentially the paler version of your classic yellow lab. In fact, the American Kennel Club recognizes white labs as yellow labs. Typically, white labs will have pigmented noses and dark eyes along with their distinctive white fur. Despite their name, their fur will still have touches of cream or yellow, especially around the ears. The Difference Between White Coats And Albinism When some people think of white fur, they might wonder if white labs have any sort of relevance to albino dogs. Albinism is a genetic defect where dogs have white skin, white fur, red eyes, pink noses, and often leads to other health issues, like a higher risk of cancer and neurological problems. Although white labs have a similar coat color to albino dogs, they are not the same thing. An easy way to tell whether or not a dog with a white coat is albino is by observing the color of their nose and the skin around their eyes. Dogs with white coats and pink noises with pink skin are most likely albino. More About White Lab Genetics Lab coats come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow — but some people might not realize that there are several shades and variations within these coats. For example, the black coat color can look like a jet black to a brownish-black with hints of gray. The chocolate coat can range from a dark chocolate color to a more milky variation. And the yellow coat can go from an orange to a bright white — which is where our white labs come in. In some cases, it goes further than genetic chance. In fact, there are two distinct labrador retriever genetic lines, which are the English lab and the American lab. They are both retrievers and come from the same breed — but they look different in their build. This allows them to serve different purposes. The English labrador also has a much calmer temperament than its American counterpart. The name of the Labrador even comes from the Labrador sea that surrounds the coast of Newfoundland. So, villagers and settlers began to breed native Newfoundland dogs with other breeds to create a new breed that was slightly more compact and had shorter hair. They were also nicknamed this because they were excellent swimmers. When it comes down to it, you want to find the perfect lab puppy for your family — and the place to start is finding the right breeder. At Snowy Pines White Labs, we do things differently. From the moment our puppies are born, they play all over our beautiful property to play and socialize. We believe in continuing the class of white labradors by breeding healthy, active, and friendly dogs that are perfect for your home. Check out our available puppies or contact us today to get started on finding your new family member! Share on. We whelp and raise all our puppies in our master bathroom, kitchen and outside at times during the day and back in the bathroom at night from weeks. These puppies are not kept outside for any extended period or overnight, period. They are constantly supervised while under our care. Our labs range in color from snow white to very-light cream. They love to play fetch, stay by your side, and they can be trained to hunt. We breed both the English and American type of Labradors and our litters are a combination of the two. Our primary concerns in order of importance are: Health, Temperament, Socialization, and then Coat Color. We Live Stream the puppies from the birthing process through 7 weeks of age! Click here for our videos Your puppy comes with limited registration. Full registration is possible for established breeders and show prospects. We are very careful to insure our puppies go to fantastic homes, while insuring that there is no possibility of adding one single dog to the unwanted dog population. We interact with our puppies constantly. We introduce them to Bio Sensor and Early Neurological Stimulation at 3 days and continue until they are 15 days old. As they get older, 4 weeks we allow them in the kitchen, family area, and in the back yard. They are well socialized with adults human as well as other adult dogs in a warm and loving atmosphere. We can hold them in our arms, on their backs and cradle them like a baby. We pride ourselves on producing sound, soft, teddy bear-like puppies that grow into wonderful house pets, service and therapy dogs. We don't have a kennel. Labradors are very affectionate and social creatures. BUT, if kept isolated, they can develop habits such as digging, chewing, barking, and generally destroying anything in sight. We socialize and handle our puppies several times throughout the day and exposed to all the normal and sometimes, not-so-normal goings-on of family life. We try to expose them to as many different sounds as possible so that when they come to your home, some of these sounds are familiar. We also begin using a crate as a group and individually as soon as age appropriate. When it is time to go to their new homes, our puppies are very close to being potty-trained, but are in no way house-broken, they will let you know when they need to go outside, but they can't hold it for too long. We regularly get reports of successful potty-training as well as "sit", "shake", and "lay-down" at eight to nine weeks! We offer a "head start" for our puppies in a loving environment. We grow very fond of our puppies and it's very hard to see them leave, but we know that we have found what we think will be the ideal forever home for our pups. We love getting pictures and updates of our puppies. And we encourage all puppy owners to keep communications open and send lots of pictures as they grow. All our puppies are up to date on shots and worming. They will be micro-chipped, preregistered with the American Kennel Club, and come with a written contract that they are clear of inherited hip problems for a period of 30 months. And since our dogs are tested before breeding, it enables us to also cover over genetic defects for the life of your puppy. We also test the heart, verify full detention, and normal patella. Registration is AKC Limited. Inquire for Full Registration. The color will be registered as yellow. Our primary concerns in order of importance: Health, Temperament and Socialization, and then Coat Color. Yellow Labradors have always come in a range of shades. This range has been deliberately broadened in recent years through selective breeding of more muted tones. But despite this, there are only three recognised colors of Labradors — black , chocolate and yellow. Yellow Labs can now be commonly seen ranging from darkest rich fox red, through shades of golden, pale yellow, cream and even white. White Labs and fox red Labs are both classified as yellow Labs. Even though the hues look very different, they are just variations of the same base color. Changes in Trends What is considered desirable or fashionable changes from one decade to the next. And certainly differs between the show and working communities of Labrador breeders. Currently, working or American Labradors prefer the darker shades of yellow, and English Labradors are often much paler. English Labs differ from American or Working bred Labs quite dramatically in terms of their shape and personalities. In general your white English Labrador will be fun loving, a little silly and very sociable with people and other dogs. He might take a little longer to mature than his working bred cousins and may have less of a hyped up drive to retrieve or run around all day. A white English Lab will also often have a broader chest and head, as well as slightly shorter legs. The Albino Labrador Albinism is an interesting trait that is found throughout the animal kingdom. It is caused by a gene which switches off coloring. Albino Labs will have white hair or fur, and pale skin. They may also have red eyes, although very pale blue eyes can also be seen in some albinos when some pigmentation remains. True albinism in dogs is rare, and it is not a desirable trait as unfortunately it comes with health problems. Albino Lab Health Albino Labs can suffer from sensitive skin. This is an issue that leaves them particularly vulnerable to sun and heat damage. Not only can an albino Lab be easily sunburnt, the sun can also damage his eyes. This vulnerability can make these dogs prone to tumors and skin cancer. Many Albino dogs are born blind, or suffer from eye deformities. Fortunately, a white Lab is almost always not actually an albino Lab. It is actually just a very pale version of a yellow Labrador. White Labrador Retrievers will have pigmented noses and dark eyes, as well as distinctive white fur. Their fur will almost always contain touches of cream or yellow, especially around the ears. A white Lab puppy will often have yellow ears. Finding a White Labrador Puppy White Lab puppies will come from parents who have the genes for yellow coat color, and who have been selectively bred to have the palest version of this color. In a litter of puppies the shades of color can range just as dramatically as they do in adulthood. Some pups can look far more orange and others will be at the paler end. Puppy coats will also change color as they grow. So white Lab puppies may appear more or less pale when they mature. Even if you love white Labradors, remember that the most important thing about a puppy is their personality and their health. As with any puppy search, the way to find a white Lab puppy is to look for a litter of Labradors bred in a way that is appropriate for the breed. White Labrador Retriever Breeders If white Lab puppies appeal to you, then make sure that the breeder has not focused on color to the detriment of health or temperament. Color should always be a secondary consideration when breeding a litter or choosing your puppy. First make sure that all of the other boxes are ticked, and that you are happy with your breeder. Make sure both parents are fully health tested. For Labradors this will mean low hip and elbow scores, and clear eye tests as a minimum. Think of the Type of Labrador If you want a pup to show in the ring, then go to an established show breeder who will be able to help you select the best pup for your purpose. If you are looking for a family pet, make sure both parents are treasured members of the family too. When buying any Labrador puppy, making sure the breeder is a good breeder is key. Here is some more information on how to find a good breeder, for any color of Labrador. The main ones which Labrador owners deal with are regarding potty training and biting. You can find lots of information on dealing with both of these common issues in our extensive Puppies Section. Bringing a new puppy home is a big decision. If you have any doubts about whether you are ready for a Labrador check out this article to help make the right choice. They are loving, loyal, caring, and very affectionate with their owners. Labs tend to have very sweet personalities and make lovely family dogs. Most Labrador Retrievers come in different colors such as yellow, black, and brown, but have you ever seen a white Labrador? So, what is the white Labrador, how are they different and how can you get one? These are the answers that we have for you, in this simple guide. What is a White Labrador? In general, Labrador Retrievers come in a range of colors, from yellow to black, to cream, and even fox red , but the most common you will find is the yellow lab! Even if you have a black Labrador or a yellow Labrador, they will be able to produce pups of all different colors and shades. The white Labrador is simply just a variation of the yellow Labrador. It is a paler and lighter color in comparison to other yellow labs. Some white labs can be whiter than others, whereas other white labs may have hints of yellow on their coats. It registers Labrador Retrievers as either black, yellow, or chocolate. However, the AKC does recognize that there may be differences in the yellow shade, as this can range from very pale, light white, or cream, all the way to caramel colors and fox red shades. Whilst some white Labradors may look like a different breed of dog, they are actually just a paler version and variation of the typical yellow Labrador. How are White Labradors created? White Labradors can be created in the same way as any other Labrador puppies. When yellow Labradors give birth, they can often produce a range of puppies in either chocolate, yellow or brown colors. Many years ago, the preferred look for a Labrador was a dark, rich yellow color, almost a caramel shade, and so many breeders tried to achieve this color coat when breeding puppies. However, as times have changed, most people would like the lighter colored Labrador, and so the lighter shades of labrador have become the most common and most popular. Through selective breeding, these dogs often produce puppies in much lighter colors, and can also produce white labradors as a result. White labs will most often be born to two lighter shaded yellow labrador parents. No, white labs are not considered albino Labradors. Albinism is a genetic condition that means that there is a total lack of pigmentation in the skin, eyes, and nose. This is different from just a lighter shade of labrador, or a white Labrador. Therefore, in most situations, a white Labrador will not be an albino Labrador. Albino labradors will have very pale skin, fair fur, and even red eyes due to the loss of pigmentation. On the other hand, a white Labrador will simply have lightly colored fur, whereas their nose and eyes are more normal colored. In addition to this, white Labradors may have slightly darker ears, where they may appear more yellow or golden than white. It is also important to note that Albino Labradors have a condition where pigmentation is missing in their genetics. This is clearly a health issue, where the skin is hypersensitive to light, sunburn, and other environmental factors, causing burned skin and even cancer. Therefore, these dogs are not commonly selectively bred as it is not a desirable genetic trait for dogs. Types Of White Labradors White Labradors, just like other labradors, are categorized into two different types: Show type dogs, and Working type dogs. In general, the show-type Labrador is called an English Labrador, whereas the working type lab is referred to as an American Labrador. The white English Lab will tend to be wider and more chunky than other types of lab. These dogs tend to have larger heads and shorter bodies, and can typically look more robust than other types of Labradors. As these types of labs are show dogs, they can be rather difficult to train, and tend to have fun-loving personalities, or can be quite silly and goofy. These dogs are the perfect family pets, and are more for show than for excessive training and working. American Labrador On the other hand, the White American Labrador tends to come in darker shades of white, and are closer to yellow colored labradors. However, white American Labradors are possible. These types of labs are working dogs, and will therefore have slimmer, slighter bodies as they are most suited to training and agility roles. As a result, they are very energetic, highly trainable and intelligent, and can be used for working roles. This will give you the highest chance of creating light, white puppies. However, white Labradors are never guaranteed even with two pale-colored parents. Most Labrador litters do vary in color and their coats can still change as the dog grows older. Some very pale labs may even turn more yellow-colored as they become adults. In this sense, you could say that white Labradors are rather rare, and you can expect to pay a little bit more for a white Labrador than a regular yellow Labrador. You have to be careful, as a puppy can look white when it is very young, but that does not necessarily mean that they will remain pure white as they age and get older. In most cases of white Labradors, they are never truly all over white, some will have darker ears. White lab breeders If you are looking for a white lab, then you will need to ensure that you purchase from an experienced, reliable, and trusted breeder. This will ensure the health of your Labrador puppy for the years to come, and you will know that your dog has no underlying health conditions or genetic problems. Due to the rise in demand for white Labradors, some breeders will breed their yellow Labradors excessively in order to raise their chances of white puppies. This can be very unhealthy for the parent dogs and can cause a rise in health problems and genetically inherited diseases. To ensure that you get a good, healthy puppy, make sure that the breeder is registered , and that they do not use breeding practices that are detrimental to the health of the dog and the puppies. You should also only ever buy a puppy from a breeder who is able to show you the mother of the litter, and if possible the father, so that you know there are no obvious behavioral or health, and wellbeing issues. Price of white lab Due to the rareness of the white lab, you can expect the price to be more costly than others. However, you can be lucky, as some breeders will sell white labs for the same price as the other labs in the litter. Are white Labradors rare? Yes, white Labradors are extremely rare, however, they are not a separate color of the breed, recognized by the AKC. Instead, they are noted as a variation of the yellow kind of Labrador. For the white Labrador to occur, both parents will need to carry the color gene and pass it on to the pups but this does not necessarily mean that the litter will all be pure white. Some white Labradors are lighter than others, and some are just a slightly lighter shade than yellow, or white mixed with yellow. Due to the extremity of the color, the white Labrador is very rare and extremely desirable, so prices for these pups may be higher than usual. Which color Labrador is the smartest? Whilst all Labradors are very eager to please and easy to train, it is thought that the black Labrador is the smartest and most intelligent. The black Labrador is most often regarded as a working dog, and is, therefore, a very quick learner and actively eager to work and be trained. Are white Labradors aggressive? No, in general, white Labradors are not aggressive. As a breed, Labradors are not known to be aggressive and are very gentle creatures. They are the perfect family dog, however, they do still require training, as if they are not trained, they can have some behavioral issues. Conclusion To conclude, the white lab is a color variation of the yellow lab. The yellow lab usually is darker yellow and has a golden tone, whereas the white lab is much paler and lighter in color. However, white labs are not to be confused with albino labs, which have lost their pigmentation in the fur, eyes and skin due to the condition. White labs are simply the same as other yellow labradors in the breed, just much lighter in color! We have a stack of interesting articles to read about Labradors. Check them out below.

While it is our goal on this website to only include listings of responsible and ethical breeders of purebred dogs, and there is certain criteria that must be met in order to be listed, we can only rely on the honesty of those submitting the request. Therefore, we cannot recommend, nor do we endorse or support any one of these listings. If you are looking to purchase a puppy, it is your responsibility to do your research in learning what to look for in a breeder. In addition to the Breeders listed here, the Breed Clubs generally include listings of member Breeders on their web sites and, if not, then a listing can usually be obtained either by e-mail or telephone. We do not randomly add Breeders to any listing. All Breeders listed have requested to be included either via a general link or paid advertising. If a young pup is not an absolute requirement for you, then considering the adoption of a dog from a rescue organization or shelter is strongly recommended. In addition, Breeders occasionally have young adults available and many also take in rescued dogs. This section includes several articles and general information along with listings of shelters and rescue organizations that are not breed specific from across Canada. The purchase or sale of any dog is strictly between the buyer and seller. Accuracy of information for all advertisements is the sole responsibility of the advertiser and we cannot be held responsible for any misrepresentation. Quick Links. Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Glamorous frenchies currently have.Albert I have to move unexpectedly and can not bring my puppy with me…. .She is spade, loves kids, listens very well! These little guys, all males were born on July 3rd and are looking for someone to love them. They will be veterinarian checked and have their.English will follow Disponible!! Pour plus d informations par.Only one white girl left. Best offer. Hamilton We have pug puppies for sale. Both parents on site. We have only one white girl left. Dewormed, vacinated and health checked. Will come with puppy package to go with. She is 9 weeks old. Let me introduce you to: Heidi - Pic 1, 2 - I am the smallest in the litter and everyone always wants to.They love people and kids. May consider.Ready for rehoming Toronto 3 Charming and playful pug puppies ready to find a new home! All males. Photos and videos available upon request. Raised with love, these adorable pugs have a playful personality, are very friendly.Raised in our home. Born July 19th - All black. Dewormed and first shots. All ready paper.Winnipeg Chug puppies born July 4th. Pug and chihuahua mix. They are 10 weeks ans ready to go to their furever home! They are cheaper as they haven't had their first shot yet. One has been soldd the other .We had an accidental litter lf Frugs Pug x French Bulldog , they are incredibly adorable and will be vet checked and receive 1st vaccines and dewormer before leaving our care. Genders are listed in the pictures, fawns and very hard to find brindles available. Puppies will.Dad is Frenchie and Boston and mom is Shitzu mix. Healthy pups. Pick up Cedarbrae SW Calgary. Both boys. Very gentle and friendly. Training on a pee pad as well as using the doggie door. We will be in Calgary on the 22 of September to deliver a baby to his new.Pups are from pug parents. All are well socialized and handled from day one to ensure they make the best companions to their future family. Please Contact Pug Puppies Ready Now Belleville Beautiful pug puppies ready for their new homes Parents are health tested and clear on site Puppies have been fully vet checked vaccinated and dewormed Well socialized with other animals and children.Thee most adorable sweet babies. We have been working on outdoor potty.Mom is a fawn Pug, dad is a black Pug. Both parents have excellent health and temperament. They will receive their first shots and vet health check. You will receive.John's pug puppies. Raised around other dogs, cats and children. They have been raised in a family environment with kids as well as cats. They have started.Mom is a 2nd generation bugg, and dad is a purebred blue Boston terrier. Both on site to see I also have moms parents. The puppies are raised around kids and.Ready to go. Almost 8 weeks. Born July 19th. We'll have another litter ready in a few weeks. Pictures of the mom And dad at the end! They will be ready to go in 2 weeks.We bought the puppy from one of our neighbour thought it would help our autistic son. Unfortunately he doesn't like the puppy, so we are looking to find a home. Dewormed, two set of.Puppies come with first shots, dewormed and health check. Just a note there is a minimum 5 month wait for a new pug puppy from Barnes Pugs. Most times the wait is much longer. We breed for quality — not quantity. Please check your local animal shelters and rescues for a pet. There are many deserving animals waiting for new forever homes. Contacting us by phone is best All of our pugs are part of our family and are raised as a fully integrated part of the house, with the utmost love and attention in our family home not outside! We are not a kennel. The handling and love of our pug babies begin the moment that they are born. Our pug babies start out their loves in our bedroom where we can keep a close eye and ear out for them. Once they are weeks old they then venture out to the living room. The pugs are introduced to the litter box when they are learning to walk. As the pug puppies grow they are introduced to the rest of the house and outside weather permitting Just as any other breed the pug comes with it's own health issues. Please do your research before contacting us about a pug. If anyone in the home has any sort of allergies or asthma than the Pug breed is probably not the breed for your family. We want to place our pug babies in forever loving homes. It clearly states on our Health Guarantee that we will take our pugs back if you are unable to keep them. We reserve the right to sell, or not, to anyone applying for a Pug from us. Please understand no one will be considered without an application on file and a phone call to us. Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Learn more Please Contact Stunning Pug Puppies Ready Now Stirling Beautiful purebred pug puppies are ready for their new homes Parents on site health tested and clear Puppies have been fully vet checked vaccinated and dewormed Non breeding agreement only If you are.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.Genders are listed in the pictures, fawns and very hard to find brindles available. Puppies will.Pups have been vet checked at 2 and 4 weeks, and.English will follow Disponible!! Let me introduce you to: Heidi - Pic 1, 2 - I am the smallest in the litter and everyone always wants to.Ready for rehoming Toronto 3 Charming and playful pug puppies ready to find a new home! All males. Photos and videos available upon request. Raised with love, these adorable pugs have a playful personality, are very friendly.Electrical Components are not included Plates are printed with 3 layers of hard ink with UV treatment. Glamorous frenchies currently have.Raised in our home. Born July 19th - All black. Dewormed and first shots. All ready paper.Winnipeg Chug puppies born July 4th. Pug and chihuahua mix. They are 10 weeks ans ready to go to their furever home! They are cheaper as they haven't had their first shot yet. One has been soldd the other .We had an accidental litter lf Frugs Pug x French Bulldog , they are incredibly adorable and will be vet checked and receive 1st vaccines and dewormer before leaving our care. Dad is Frenchie and Boston and mom is Shitzu mix. Healthy pups. Pick up Cedarbrae SW Calgary. Both boys. Pups are from pug parents. All are well socialized and handled from day one to ensure they make the best companions to their future family. Please Contact Pug Puppies Ready Now Belleville Beautiful pug puppies ready for their new homes Parents are health tested and clear on site Puppies have been fully vet checked vaccinated and dewormed Well socialized with other animals and children.Mom is a fawn Pug, dad is a black Pug. Both parents have excellent health and temperament. They will receive their first shots and vet health check. You will receive.John's pug puppies. Raised around other dogs, cats and children. They have been raised in a family environment with kids as well as cats. They have started.Mom is a 2nd generation bugg, and dad is a purebred blue Boston terrier. Both on site to see I also have moms parents. The puppies are raised around kids and.Ready to go. Almost 8 weeks. Born July 19th. We'll have another litter ready in a few weeks. Pictures of the mom And dad at the end! They will be ready to go in 2 weeks.We bought the puppy from one of our neighbour thought it would help our autistic son. Unfortunately he doesn't like the puppy, so we are looking to find a home. Dewormed, two set of.Puppies come with first shots, dewormed and health check.

Snow Capped Shepherd Rescueis a Denver, Colorado based, volunteer-run non-profit c 3 organization. We do not have a shelter, instead all of our rescued dogs are housed with caring foster families…a temporary stop on their way to happily-ever-after. The problem. The reason so many dogs and cats have to be rescued in the first place is that there are not enough homes. Too many dogs and cats are sadly born to die. Do your part, spay and neuter your pets and encourage others to do the same. The solution. We rescue White German Shepherds of all sizes, ages and personalities. These dogs come to us from former owners, shelters or as strays. Sadly, shelters and humane societies are over-run with homeless pets and tragically must euthanize thousands of adoptable pets every month to make room for more. Why would you need to buy a pet when so many are in need? Foster homes provide care and love for these wonderful dogs while we work to find them permanent homes. Plus, by living in a true home setting, our adoptable animals become better prepared for their new adopted families. Matching responsible guardians with our adoptable dogs takes place through our adoption process. We carefully interview potential adopters to ensure that the right match is made. We ask questions about lifestyle, desired activity level, work situation and gather other pertinent information from potential adopters. Too often pets end up unwanted because they were never a good match for their previous home in the first place. At Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue, we look for people who intend to provide a home for a lifetime and understand what that requires. Visit their website for more information on how your kids can have fun at camp too! Found on the street, homeless, hungry, and maybe sick. Or worse dropped off by his family for being old or unwanted. Shivering in a cold strange place that smells of bleach and other dogs that overwhelm him. The endless barking day and night. Wondering what happened -- what did he do wrong to be put in such a place? What will happen? How many days until he feels the needle that takes him to sleep forever? Or, will he be one of the very few to be found by someone looking for a new family member or maybe a rescue that understands the need to help him. Do they know his breed and are they good at finding just the right home? Will he be lucky enough to be placed into a forever home where he will find that he has a new family to be a member of? In reality, once lost or turned away from their family and left with a broken heart, dogs go into a self-protective shield. Once they realize they don't need to be afraid anymore, their true personality blossoms like a beautiful rose. A truly awesome experience to witness.All dogs are hands-on evaluated. We are a foster-based rescue and all dogs live in private homes prior to adoption. We DO adopt outside of the State of Arizona, but you must be willing to travel to Arizona to meet a dog and us. Home visits are required and may be accomplished by a local rescue or a video call with one of our staff members. The adopters are responsible for coming to Phoenix, meeting the dog and then taking him or her home with them. These are all purebred German Shepherd Dogs.Because they are! There is a tremendous degree of variation within this breed, which is why we go to such lengths to ensure that the dog in which you are interested is, indeed, the right dog for you, your household and your current lifestyle. GSDs vary in structure, type and temperament, contingent upon the lines from which they were bred, coupled with their level of training and socialization. While you may prefer a certain "look," take care to make temperament, drive levels and the dog's history, the most important factors in choosing the right companion.First and foremost, we are all about the DOG. We do not place a dog into a home just because we need to make space for a new rescue. We put the dog's best interest at heart at all times and will not place a dog into a home that is not suitable. They are set, taking into account the dog's age, training level, medical condition s if any and other factors. Some dogs require that hundreds of dollars and many weeks, even months, be spent before they are ready for adoption; others do not. Adoption fees are used, not only to rescue and place the dog you are personally adopting, but to aid in the future rescue and rehabilitation of other deserving dogs. Adoption fees are necessary; without fees our rescue efforts would quickly come to an end. Office expenses add up as well. Rescue is an expensive undertaking, both financially and emotionally, and is motivated solely by our passion for German Shepherd Dogs. We are volunteers. We volunteer our time countless hours every day , and we are by no means wealthy. We do not make a profit and seldom break even. Adoption fees come in and go right back out to the next rescued dog. Once a questionnaire is submitted, you will be contacted usually within 24 hours to set up an introduction with the dog s that you are interested in if they are a suitable match for you and your family. All owners are required to sign an Owner Surrender form prior to placement. Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue is a Denver, Colorado based c 3 non profit organization run solely through the dedication of its volunteers. We rescue White German Shepherds, German Shepherd mixes, and other dogs that have been abandoned, neglected or have otherwise become disposable. We were founded to become their gateway to Forever Families that understand adoption is for a lifetime. Matching responsible pet guardians with Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue's dogs is our primary goal. We carefully interview potential adopters because we want to make sure the right match is made. We work hard to fit your adoption criteria with the dogs we have up for adoption. We want the adoption to be successful for both you and the dog. Too often pets end up in shelters because they were never a good match for their homes in the first place. At Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue, we look for people who intend to provide a home for the life of the pet and understand what that requires. Once we receive your application, a volunteer will contact you. Since we do not have a shelter, we rely on foster families to provide caring and loving homes for our dogs while they wait for their forever families. Foster families provide a temporary stop on a dog's way to happily-ever-after. With every foster family we add to our program, we can rescue another dog waiting at a shelter. A foster family is responsible for the daily care and support for the dog they welcome into their home and hearts. A foster family helps a dog in need become more adoptable by teaching them house manners and by providing a consistent source of love - something they might not have known before. Being a foster parent is not an easy task and is not for everyone. It is however, the hardest job you'll ever love. Foster homes go through the same interview and review process as potential adopters. Fostering can be anywhere from a few days to a few months. Please contact us if you are interested in finding out more about one of our Adorable Adoptables. We look forward to speaking to you! Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue.