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Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Website: pug-puppy. At pug-puppy. This is a family of Pug lovers who are about the advancement of the Pug breed as well as the health and wellbeing of each and every one of their pups. The family lives and raises their Pugs on a one-acre plot with plenty of room for running and playing. They even teach their Pugs to swim! All of their Pugs are fed a healthy diet of quality food and vitamins and have the freedom to play with lots of toys. When you purchase a pup from pug-puppy. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.
UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bulldog Overview The Bulldog, a beloved and iconic dog breed , holds a special place in the hearts of many, with a history that spans centuries. With a history dating back to the 13th century, Bulldogs have evolved into the lovable and devoted companions we know today. Their journey from the bullbaiting pits to becoming cherished family pets is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. This breeds appearance is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive features and unique physique. Their short-muzzled head is massive and square, adorned with dense wrinkles that add to their endearing charm. These wrinkles serve a functional purpose, helping to protect their eyes and funnel moisture away from their face. Bulldogs have a muscular and low-slung body, coupled with a sturdy build and broad shoulders, giving them a powerful and determined appearance. Despite their strong physique, Bulldogs are surprisingly gentle and docile, making them excellent companions for families, including children. Their stocky legs and wide chest contribute to their distinctive gait, often described as a waddle rather than a typical walk. This amusing gait, combined with their snorting, snoring, and grunting habits, endears them to their owners and adds to their unique charm. Their devotion to their families knows no bounds. They thrive on human companionship and seek out attention from their owners. While Bulldogs are generally calm and dignified, they are also known for their courageous and protective instincts. Despite their sweet disposition, they will not hesitate to defend their loved ones if they sense any threat. Their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unmatched. Bulldogs are prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their distinctive facial structure and stocky body. Their popularity has grown steadily over the years, and they have become cherished pets in households worldwide. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments and family homes, has contributed to their status as a favored breed for many families. Their unique appearance, combined with their loving and devoted temperament, make them stand out among dog breeds. Whether they are representing school mascots or snuggling up with their owners on the couch, Bulldogs continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and lovable character. For those seeking a canine companion filled with loyalty, love, and a touch of quirkiness, the Bulldog is an exceptional choice that will undoubtedly bring joy and affection to their home for years to come. Bulldog Highlights Bulldogs, with their charming and endearing personalities, are known for being a bit stubborn and inclined to laze around. As they mature, their enthusiasm for walks may wane, but it remains essential to provide them with daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. In warm weather, Bulldogs can struggle to tolerate heat and humidity. Keeping a close eye on them when outdoors is crucial, as signs of overheating should not be ignored. Many caring owners find relief for their furry friends by offering kiddy play pools filled with refreshing water in shaded spots, creating a relaxing oasis for Bulldogs to enjoy while everyone is outside. Conversely, Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather. During chilly days, providing them with appropriate protection, such as cozy blankets or insulated jackets, will ensure their comfort and safety. As affectionate as Bulldogs are, their distinctive wheezing, snorting, and snoring sounds are part of their charm. Yet, these adorable noises can sometimes be accompanied by sleep apnea , a condition that requires attention and care from their loving owners. Bulldogs have also earned a reputation for their occasional bouts of flatulence. While this is common among the breed, excessive gas may warrant a visit to the vet to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Due to their characteristic short noses, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory ailments. Some may even have pinched nostrils, making breathing more challenging, and in severe cases, surgical correction might be necessary to alleviate their discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Bulldogs, as they have a propensity to be greedy eaters. Without careful monitoring of their food intake, they can easily become overweight or even obese, which can lead to various health problems. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to keep these charming canines fit and happy. When it comes to reproduction, Bulldogs face unique challenges. Their relatively large heads and front structure often necessitate caesarean sections for safe delivery of their puppies. Therefore, breeding Bulldogs requires experienced and responsible practices to ensure the well-being of both mother and offspring. Discussing this matter with the veterinarian beforehand is essential to ensure their safety and well-being. In the quest for a healthy and well-adjusted Bulldog, it is vital to avoid obtaining puppies from unethical sources like backyard breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, responsible pet seekers should seek reputable breeders who prioritize genetic health testing and good temperaments in their breeding dogs. With proper care, attention, and love, Bulldogs will flourish as devoted and cherished members of their families. Their unique personalities and delightful quirks will undoubtedly win the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these lovable and affectionate companions. By embracing the responsibility of providing for their specific needs and ensuring their happiness, Bulldog owners can look forward to years of joy and companionship with these endearing canine friends. Bulldog History The Bulldog of today stands in stark contrast to its ancestors, descended from ancient mastiff-type dogs and exclusively developed in England. It was an incredibly popular spectacle, captivating audiences in a time before professional sports, television, movies, or video games. The early Bulldogs were taller and heavier than their modern counterparts, selectively bred to excel at this gruesome activity. Their short, flat noses allowed them to breathe while maintaining their grip, and their tolerance for pain was heightened to endure the demanding battles. The wrinkled skin on their heads even had a practical purpose, redirecting blood away from their eyes during the gripping struggle. No longer bred for aggression, the Bulldog faced a transformation. Dedicated and patient breeders set their focus on the temperament of the breed, selecting only dogs with docile and gentle personalities for breeding. Over time, this re-engineering process successfully transformed the once ferocious Bulldog into the affectionate and amiable companion we know today. The journey to rehabilitate the Bulldog was not without challenges. In , the first Bulldog breed club was formed, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years. However, the tenacity of Bulldog enthusiasts prevailed, and in , The Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing a new standard for the breed. This standard underwent revisions and adaptations, eventually gaining acceptance in and remaining in use to this day. As Bulldogs were brought to the United States, their popularity began to grow steadily, leading to their recognition by the American Kennel Club in .Throughout the s and s, Bulldogs enjoyed popularity, ranking close to the top 10 breeds. Today, they proudly stand as the 12th most popular breed among the registered by the AKC, a testament to their credentials as beloved companions. The transformation of the Bulldog from a once feared and ferocious creature to a friendly and tranquil companion stands as a testament to the human ability to rehabilitate and refine an entire breed through thoughtful and dedicated breeding practices. The once-feared Bulldog has evolved into a loving and cherished member of countless families, a triumph of human compassion and dedication. Bulldog Size A medium-sized breed, Bulldogs are known for their sturdy and compact build. Mature male Bulldogs usually weigh around 50 pounds, while females tend to be slightly lighter at approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size. Despite their weight differences, Bulldogs maintain their iconic charm and distinctive appearance. In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. Their low-slung bodies and stocky frames give them a unique and endearing look. Despite their relatively short stature, Bulldogs exude confidence and presence, captivating everyone they encounter with their charming demeanor. Their compact size and well-proportioned bodies make Bulldogs agile and adaptable, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their gentle and loving nature, combined with their unique physique, ensures that they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Whether as devoted family pets or show champions, Bulldogs leave an indelible impression wherever they go, becoming beloved companions to those lucky enough to have them by their side. Their mere presence is enough to deter any would-be intruders. Temperament is influenced by various factors, including genes, training , and socialization. To ensure your Bulldogs grow up to be well-adjusted dogs, early socialization is key. Expose them to a range of experiences, people, and environments during their formative months. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their social education. Regularly inviting visitors and taking them to busy places will help them polish their social skills, turning them into delightful and well-rounded companions. With a blend of charm, courage, and affection, Bulldogs are truly one of a kind, canine confidants that will undoubtedly bring endless joy to your life. Bulldog Health Like all breeds, Bulldogs may be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. Choosing a responsible breeder increases the likelihood of getting a healthy Bulldog, as they ensure vaccinations and deworming for their puppies. Responsible breeders use physically sound, mature dogs, testing them for genetic diseases relevant to the breed. The following conditions may affect Bulldogs: Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes, creating a red, swollen appearance that resembles a cherry in the corner of the eye. While not typically painful, it can cause discomfort and potential irritation for the dog. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the gland and alleviate the issue. This can result in discomfort, redness, and a blue haze over the cornea. Veterinary consultation is essential to diagnose the condition accurately and provide appropriate eye drops or ointments to manage the symptoms effectively. In severe cases, corneal damage can occur. Surgical correction is often recommended to reposition the eyelids and prevent further complications. Inverted or Reverse Sneezing : While not a health problem per se, inverted or reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in Bulldogs. It happens when nasal fluids drip down the soft palate, causing a temporary closure of the airway. Owners can soothe their Bulldogs during these episodes by gently massaging their throat or offering a distraction. Brachycephalic Syndrome : Bulldogs, with their short heads and narrowed nostrils, can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which results in obstructed airways. This may cause noisy or labored breathing, especially during exercise or warm weather. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and even collapse. Head Shakes: Head shakes in Bulldogs can resemble fits but only affect the head. They are involuntary movements from side-to-side or up-and-down, possibly linked to stress or low blood sugar levels. If the shaking is unrelated to excitement or stress, a prompt veterinary visit is advised to rule out any underlying health issues causing discomfort. Timely veterinary attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to poor fit between the thighbone and hip socket. Although Bulldogs often show signs of hip dysplasia on X-rays due to their naturally shallow hip joints, they may not always experience significant lameness or pain. Proper weight management and controlled exercise can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of joint problems. Tail Problems: Some Bulldogs may have abnormal tail formations, such as screw tails or inverted tails, which can cause skin problems. Keeping the tail clean and dry is essential to prevent infections or irritations associated with these tail types. This can cause lameness, an abnormal gait, or even joint arthritis over time. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Bulldog Care Having a low to moderate energy level, bulldogs are well-suited for indoor living. They prefer a relaxed lifestyle and are content with about 15 minutes of play before needing a nap. This adaptable energy level makes Bulldogs suitable for various homes, from apartments to houses with yards. A mile or two walk during cooler times of the day is sufficient, but even a short stroll along your street brings them joy. Due to their brachycephalic pushed-in face structure, Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold weather. They tend to breathe heavily and struggle to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heatstroke, especially in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Providing a cool, air-conditioned environment and ensuring access to fresh water is crucial for their well-being. Another important consideration is their inability to swim due to their heavy heads. In terms of training, Bulldogs may not excel in obedience trials, but they are highly capable learners. They have an excellent memory and respond well to fun training sessions that involve repetition, positive reinforcement, food rewards, and praise. Patience and consistency are key to successful training with Bulldogs. Bulldog Feeding Feeding your Bulldog the right amount of high-quality dog food is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. However, the exact portion your adult dog needs depends on various factors, including size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals, and their dietary needs can vary. Opting for high-quality dog food is crucial as it provides better nourishment, reducing the quantity needed to meet their dietary requirements. Be cautious not to overfeed your Bulldog, as obesity can strain their joints and lead to health issues. You can do this with the hands-on test by feeling their ribs without having to press hard. For more detailed guidance on feeding your Bulldog, consider our guidelines for choosing the right food , feeding puppies , and feeding adult dogs. Proper nutrition is vital for a happy and healthy life for your beloved Bulldog. The head is adorned with heavy wrinkles, and there are two loose folds forming a dewlap from the jaw to the chest. Bulldogs come in various colors, including red brindle, other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow pale cream to light fawn, pale yellow, or yellow-red , and piebald large patches of two or more colors. Solid black is less common and not highly admired in this breed. Daily cleaning of their face is essential, paying special attention to cleaning inside the wrinkles. Dry the wrinkles thoroughly after washing, and consider using baby wipes with lanolin and aloe vera for gentle cleaning. Bulldogs are moderate shedders, and regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Other grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. The ears should smell good without excessive wax or debris, and the eyes should be clear without redness or discharge. Bulldog Children And Other Pets An amiable temperament and sturdy build make Bulldogs a wonderful companion for children, including young ones. Nevertheless, if they ever get tired of being tormented, they will simply walk away, showcasing their sensible judgment. Teach them to be gentle, respectful, and considerate towards their furry friend. Supervising any interactions between dogs and young children is of utmost importance to prevent any unintended mishaps, such as biting or pulling of ears and tail. No dog, including the gentle Bulldog, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. While Bulldogs are known for their amiable disposition, any breed of dog may react unpredictably to certain situations. Therefore, adult supervision is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog during their interactions. Beyond their affinity for children, Bulldogs exhibit a pacific nature that extends to other pets, including dogs and cats. Their sociable demeanor makes them generally great companions for various household animals. However, like any dog, Bulldogs may display some reserve or caution when encountering unfamiliar dogs. Proper introductions and gradual socialization can help Bulldogs become more at ease in the presence of other canines. By teaching kids how to approach and interact with dogs respectfully and under adult supervision, the bond between Bulldogs and their human and animal companions can thrive in a harmonious and loving environment. Bulldog Rescue Groups Often, Bulldogs are acquired without a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved, leading many of them to find their way into rescue groups seeking adoption or foster care. However, opting to adopt an adult Bulldog presents several compelling advantages. Adult dogs frequently come with pre-existing housetraining and basic obedience skills, making the transition into a new home smoother. Moreover, they have already outgrown the boisterous puppy phase, sparing potential adopters from dealing with the inevitable mischief and destruction associated with young pups. English Bulldogs are up there with Dalmatians and Golden Retrievers for being one of the most easily recognizable dogs around. They have a distinctive look to them, with their most prominent characteristic being their short snouts and chubby faces. English Bulldogs are short - only about a foot tall - and extremely stout. They're tough little guys and were originally bred to fight bulls. These days, they've lost all of their fight and have turned into super lovable dogs. They're very friendly, don't require much exercise, and have a lot to offer for new families. However, they do have a tendency to develop health issues later in life and require some extra attention in certain areas. In this medieval sport, Bulldogs would attack and taunt tethered bulls, eventually pinning the bull down to be executed. Bullbaiting was outlawed in , however, which seemed like the end for the little fighting machines. They were notoriously aggressive, and only bred for a singular purpose - so why keep them as pets? Well, over time, passionate breeders were able to turn these little fighters into the chubby cuddlers we know them as today. They're now one of the more revered breeds of dogs, and often can be found on display at dog shows around the world. Their heads are large and round, with a flat muzzle. They have large, broadly set jaws, and have droopy jowls and skin all around their face. They have a short and thick body, with broad shoulders and stocky legs. They come in a variety of color patterns, though the most well known is white and brown. Despite their fierce appearance and history, they are some of the gentlest dogs around. The English Bulldog personality portrays to be very sociable, especially with people, so you don't have to worry about introducing them to new animals and friends. That said, they are still loyal and brave, making them great watchdogs. They don't scare easy and will do more than just bark if they sense an intruder. The most obvious is its coat color. Blue English Bulldogs have a grey and white coat mix, as opposed to a brown and white coat. The second difference, and the characteristic most people seeking out Blue English Bulldogs are interested in them, is their blue eyes. Blue eyes are rare on just about any dog, but especially when it comes to English Bulldogs, who traditionally have dark brown and black eyes. While this may not seem like a big deal to most, this one change can be very difficult to breed for. And as a result, these dogs are much, much more expensive than traditional English Bulldogs. British bulldog British Bulldogs are the standard English Bulldogs that you think of or see the majority of the time. They have a brown and white coat with dark brown eyes and are the least expensive of the English Bulldog variations. Mini bulldog The Mini Bulldog - sometimes called the Toy Bulldog - is a variation of English Bulldogs that is the same in just about every way, except that they are much smaller. They also tend to have less wrinkly and chubby physiques, which may appeal to certain owners. Unlike other toy breeds, though, the Mini Bulldog is not as small as you might expect. It's somewhere in between the standard English Bulldog and a Chihuahua. So think of them as a slightly smaller Bulldog rather than a tiny one. Mini Bulldogs have been bred since the s, though they didn't really find their footing until the s and s. While the breed became popular, the reduction in health issues has mostly been negligible. They can eat any dog food and be ok, though high-quality dog food is generally recommended. Just make sure that whatever dog food you are feeding them is relevant to their needs puppy, adult, senior, indoor, outdoor, etc. The one thing to keep in mind about English Bulldogs when it comes to their diet is that they can be particularly prone to becoming overweight. This is because they don't exercise as much as other dogs. So, make sure that you aren't ever overfeeding your English Bulldog. Treats are ok to give them during training, although it's easy to overfeed them on treats if you aren't careful. Grooming English Bulldogs are prone to shedding more than most dogs, so you'll need to make an active effort to keep their coats in check. This can be done by giving them a thorough brushing two to three times each week. When shedding is heavier, you may find that a rubber curry brush works best. The wrinkles around your bulldogs face will need to be cleaned periodically, as food, dirt, and moisture can all become trapped there. A cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide is helpful for cleaning their wrinkles. For drying their wrinkles after cleaning, applying cornstarch to moist areas works best. Just be sure that cornstarch is not applied near their eyes. Their nails should be trimmed every two weeks or so as well. Exercise English Bulldogs are not very athletic dogs, so laidback owners will have a nice time relaxing with their Bulldog. That said, like any dog, moderate exercise from time to time is still recommended. Casual walks or an hour or so in the backyard is usually enough exercise for these little guys. It's important to keep in mind, though, that English Bulldogs do not do well in heat. So during the summer, it's best that they stay inside, near an air conditioner if it's particularly hot. English Bulldogs will have a hard time going up and down stairs, so if you have stairs in your home, it might be good to build some kind of ramp or carry them up the stairs yourself. They should also be kept away from pools and bodies of water unless supervised closely since they are not strong swimmers. Training Like most dogs, English Bulldogs are eager to please their owners, so they are reasonably trainable so long as they are started at an early enough age, and checking out our Puppy Growth Chart may help you determine the best age for puppy training. They should also be socialized while they are young as well, or they may have a hard time interacting with new people and pets. Bulldogs love to chew, so they'll need lots of chew toys all throughout their life. However, it is also important to train them to release what they are chewing on command, as they may end up chewing something important to you or harmful for them. English Bulldogs can be very protective of their food, which can cause them to be aggressive as they get older. In order to curb this behavior, train them to get used to people and other animals taking food from their bowl at a young age. Health The primary health concern that most English Bulldog owners will face on a regular basis is overheating. English Bulldogs, due to their size and the way they breathe, are not good at keeping themselves cool. This means that it's your responsibility to keep an eye on them on hot days and keep them indoors during the summertime. If you live in an area of the US that is particularly hot year-round - like the southwest - it might be advisable to consider adopting another breed. English Bulldogs typically weigh around 40 to 50 pounds and live to be between eight to twelve years of age. They should stay indoors most of the time, and only go out for occasional exercise and playtime. They do not do well as outdoor pets because of their sensitivity to heat. While any well air-conditioned home will be suitable for an English Bulldog, they are very prone to overheating. So if you live in a particularly hot or desert-like climate, your Bulldog will end up spending the majority of its time indoors. They do extremely well with families, and in fact, love all of the extra attention and social interaction that comes along with kids. They can be territorial when it comes to other animals, though, as they prefer to have the attention on themselves. Health Issues In English Bulldogs Dry eyes English Bulldogs are notorious for their health issues, with some of the most common being related to their eyes. They often have inadequate tear production to keep their eyes as moist as they should be. This can lead to them developing a blue haze on their eyes, which can damage their vision and cause significant pain. Fortunately, there is a medication that your vet can prescribe to combat this issue. Another issue that Bulldogs are prone to get in their eyes is cherry eye. This is when one of the glands in their eyes starts to protrude, resembling a cherry in the corner of their eye. This will sometimes need to be surgically removed by a vet. Sneezing Sneezing may not sound like a serious health issue - in fact, most of the time it's a normal part of how your dog's body functions. In the case of English Bulldogs, though, they can have challenges related to sneezing and their health. Reverse sneezing, also known as inverted sneezing, is when nasal fluids drip into your Bulldog's soft palate, causing it close. This can be scary for them and cause them to cough and choke. It's generally not serious, however, so the best thing you can do is comfort your dog during a reverse sneezing fit. Brachycephalic Syndrome Brachycephalic syndrome is pretty common among dog breeds with short snouts like the English Bulldog. While the name is a little medical for most of us, the condition itself is pretty straightforward. There can be a few different causes, but the general issue with this syndrome is that your pet's airway is obstructed. This can be due to issues with their nostrils or palate. In mild cases, this just means your English Bulldog will have labored breathing and is likely to snort. In severe cases, though, your dog may have trouble breathing at all. This can require surgery and regular oxygen treatment to resolve. Head shakes Head shaking in English Bulldogs is exactly as the name sounds. Your dog will start to shake their head up and down or side to side over and over again for no apparent reason. While your dog may appear conscious of the movement, it is usually involuntary. This is usually caused by stress as well as low blood sugar. Most breeders recommend giving your dog a spoonful of honey if you notice their head shakes seem uncontrollable. If this doesn't work and you aren't able to come up with a reasonable explanation for your dog's head shakes, there could be a more serious health issue just below the surface. In these cases, take your dog to the vet to figure out what is causing their head shakes. Hip Dysplasia You've likely heard of hip dysplasia in dogs before, as it is relatively common in dogs of all breeds. Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition, so Bulldogs whose parents have hip dysplasia are likely to have hip dysplasia as well. This condition is when your dog's thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into their hip joint, causing it to move improperly. Most English Bulldogs will appear to have hip dysplasia just based on their natural build, which can make an accurate diagnosis difficult. If your bulldog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia , be sure to get a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis. While hip dysplasia is usually an inherited condition, it can also be caused by rapid growth, a sudden change in weight, or long term obesity in your pet. Reasons To Adopt An English Bulldog English Bulldogs are great pets to adopt if you have an easy-going family looking for an extra member. Aside from their health issues, they're pretty low-maintenance and don't require much exercise. English Bulldogs are also quiet for the most part, so you won't have to deal with loud barking in the middle of the night. They're also very loyal as well, making them decent guard dogs for your family. All in all, English Bulldogs are very laidback pets who love to socialize and chill with their owners. If that sounds like you, then an English Bulldog will more than likely make a great addition to your home. The biggest drawback to owning an English Bulldog is the health problems all throughout their life. You'll need to be prepared for this, as well as be an extra vigilant owner who isn't afraid to visit your local vet. While English Bulldogs are able to be kept around other pets, they tend to be pretty possessive of their owners' attention, as well as their food. So bringing an older Bulldog into a family that already has pets or introducing new pets into an older Bulldog's life can sometimes go awry. English Bulldogs are also one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world, making them on the more expensive side of pet ownership. This upfront cost - coupled with the long-term costs due to their health issues - means you'll need to be willing and able to invest in them over their lifespan. Tips For New Bulldog Owners First and foremost, like any new dog, socialization is extremely important. If your new English Bulldog is a puppy, make sure they spend plenty of time around people and other animals. It also helps to get your puppy used to other people and animals messing with its food early on, as this can prevent them from being territorial and aggressive down the road. And lastly, make sure that you are on top of your Bulldog's health needs. This includes watching for common signs of health issues, visiting your vet regularly, and keeping them clean and healthy. He is characteristically big-boned, goofy, and full of love. Although they were originally bred as fighting dogs—and later became a worldwide symbol for toughness and tenacity—the bulldog evolved into a gentle, family oriented dog who just wants to watch the world go by from the comfort of his bed. You're also likely to see this handsome breed on TV, patrolling the sideline at a college football or basketball games, or in the movies, famously trying to keep an inflated Aunt Marge from floating away. It's no wonder you find them everywhere, the bulldog is the fifth-most popular breed in America. They're beefy boys and girls. A staple trait is their huge underbite, and sometimes the pups will " hang a fang. English bulldogs sit low to the ground and have wide shoulders, two characteristics that behooved them in their dog fighting history. They can be any combination of these with additional brindling, ticking, or black masks. Their eyes should always be dark brown or black. You won't confuse an English bulldog for the other members of the bulldog family. The French bulldog is smaller and has tall bat ears. The American bulldog is an athletic all-purpose working dog with longer legs and a leaner body made to guard, hunt, or farm. The Olde English Bulldogge, a larger, more muscular mix of English bulldogs, pit bull terriers, American bulldogs and bullmastiffs, is the least common bulldog. Temperament A bulldog's temperament is far more friendly and goofy than he may look. Although they're intimidating physically, bulldogs are actually extremely family and kid friendly. The more positive interactions they have with new situations, the better off they'll be. The bulldog is rarely aggressive. In fact, he's almost dopey. He doesn't always understand what you're saying, but he's kind and earnest in his ways. Their low energy level means they can thrive as apartment dwellers. They certainly don't need a huge yard to run and romp, as they'll get tired after 10 minutes of playing and need a snooze. The bulldog absolutely loves children and will put up with all the noise, yanking and tugging that come with them. They'll never show anger; they'll just walk away if they feel bothered. This breed doesn't bark a ton, but they make great watch dogs that can frighten someone off with their appearance alone. They are also known for having courage, and will protect their loved ones no matter what. Bulldogs prefer a slow life lounging on the couch or squeezing onto your lap yes, even at 50 pounds. They are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a wide skull and a flat face that can make exercise tough. Their heavy heads and chest make them poor swimmers and they should be watched closely around water to avoid drowning. Care A bulldog's coat is very fine and short, so they only require brushing once a week. The more you brush, the less hair you'll find on your furniture and clothing. More important than brushing is keeping his face clean and dry—with so many wrinkles, they can get irritated or infected if not cared for properly. Trim his nails once a month or so, until you can't hear him click-clacking on the floor. Weekly or daily teeth brushing will prevent future vet visits down the line. While the bulldog doesn't care much for exercise, he still needs it to maintain a healthy weight, as he is prone to weight gain. A daily walk around the neighborhood during the cooler hours will wear him out, as will a quick play session. He would much rather be cuddling with his child companions or taking a nap in the AC. Consult your vet about the right food for your bulldog, and monitor that food intake to prevent weight gain. Bulldogs are better off with two measured meals a day rather than leaving the bowl out all the time. If nobody stopped them, they'd keep eating. Because they can be lazy, bulldog owners need to have focus and patience with their puppy. Once he learns something, he will remember it, especially if treats are involved. That short, bullish stature can give way to joint or respiratory difficulties. The brachycephalic bulldog can get overheated quickly, so he shouldn't be left in enclosed warm spaces and must be monitored outdoors. Always have plenty of water, shade, and access to AC for your bulldog to reduce the likelihood of heat stroke. History The modern day bulldog is quite the turnaround from his ancestors. In the 13th century in England, bulldogs were used for the sport of "bull baiting," the AKC writes. Before we had professional sports, spectators would gather and bet money on this inhumane practice. One or multiple bulldogs would attempt to pin a bull to the ground using their powerful bite. These early bulldogs were slightly taller and more muscular than today's English bulldog, and only the most aggressive were bred. The AKC writes that the bulldog's tenacious character stems from their history in the ring, because they developed a high pain tolerance and kept fighting until the last second. It wasn't until that bull baiting was outlawed in England, and bulldogs faced extinction without that purpose. Many people admired the strength, determination, and appearance of the breed, and didn't want to see them die out. Luckily, there were breeders who dedicated their lives to re-engineering the bulldog. They used only the even tempered dogs to reproduce, until only the docile were left. In , the English bulldog was recognized by the AKC. The dog that originated in England has come to symbolize their people. And, well, he looked like a bulldog, too. Today, the bulldog is known as one of the most gentle, kid-friendly dogs in the world. President Warren G. Harding also had a bulldog in the White House, Old Boy. Yale was the first university in the United States to adopt a mascot—a bulldog named Handsome Dan. Today, dozens of colleges and universities use a bulldog as their mascot. Otto, a bulldog from Lima, Peru, set a world record in " the longest human tunnel traveled through by a dog skateboarder. Was this page helpful? Post by: Eric M. Once bred for sport and work, the English Bulldog has evolved into a loyal and easygoing member of the family. About the Breed With a knack for getting along with everyone, English Bulldogs can make themselves at home with any type of family. An extremely loyal breed, these pups are known to form strong bonds with children, while being laidback enough for pet parents who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. And even though their large jaws and underbite can give the impression of sadness or concern, anyone familiar with this breed knows that these playful, even comical, pups are more silly than sad. With adorable wrinkles and a playful temperament, the English Bulldog is sure to turn a lot of heads wherever they go. Breed History Originally bred for bull-baiting in England, Bulldogs were first referenced in works of literature dating back to the s. The breed developed their stocky frame, large head, and notorious jowls due in part to the strenuous activities they participated in. As the English Bulldog transitioned from a working dog into a show dog, the breed eventually found their way to the United States in the s. Once in the States, their popularity grew. Outside of finding major success in the show ring, the English Bulldog found celebrity status, too! The original Yale mascot was an English Bulldog named Handsome Dan — the name gets passed down to each successor. During WWI, the U. Marines became associated with the breed and made them their mascot, as well. Each Marine bulldog takes the name Chesty. The University of Georgia Bulldogs are represented on the sideline by an English Bulldog named Uga and, you guessed it, each mascot proudly takes the name Uga. This unique build gave them a wide stance and bowlegged gait. The breed has short, smooth coats that come in a variety of colors, including brindle, white, red, fawn, yellow, and piebald. On average, these pooches reach 12 to 15 inches in height and weight 40 to 60 pounds. There is little size difference between genders with males tending to be just a bit heavier. An occasional bath and a few brushing sessions with a short bristle brush each week should be enough to keep their coat looking marvelous. Unfortunately, their upkeep goes beyond getting out the brush. If left unclean, these folds can be a haven for bacteria and other unpleasant surprises. Dental hygiene is also especially important with this breed due to their compressed jaw. In addition to requiring an increased focus on teeth cleaning, the shape of their head can also lead to a few other less than desirable features, including snoring, wheezing, and drooling — of course, these are all normal side effects. Learn more about how pet insurance could help you cover your pet's eligible veterinary care expenses. Training By their nature, English Bulldogs are people pleasers, even though they can be slightly strong willed from time to time. They learn best when owners make training fun, especially if it involves repetition, positive reinforcement, and, of course, a few treats of encouragement. Outside of training, English Bulldogs are known to be independent dogs who can solve problems on their own without needing help from their humans. Aside from a few preventable concerns, like their lack of swimming ability, a tendency to quickly overheat in the sun, issues with reproduction and the need for caesarean section, and exercise-induced breathing issues, English Bulldogs face a lot of genetic issues. Get a free quote now! Instead, human intervention has lead to many issues and exacerbated many others. Poor practices, selective breeding, and overbreeding have led some experts to believe that any breeding of these dogs is inhumane. While there is no consensus when it comes to the ethical quandaries of English Bulldogs and breeding, it is important to be aware of all of the factors at play when deciding on which breed is right for your family and lifestyle, while also noting the importance of knowing where a dog — no matter the breed — comes from. This is especially important when it comes to these wrinkled wonders — the price tag on an English Bulldog can reach quadruple digits. Despite their many health concerns, English Bulldogs do have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. And, if well cared for, can live happy, comfortable lives while providing unflinching companionship and boundless entertainment in the proper home. Check out our online resources to learn more about your insurance options and get a free quote today. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian. By Sarah Ashley Published Jan 22, Bulldogs are sweet, loyal companion dogs that make it impossible not to fall in love with them. Just ask Chrissy Teigen. Full disclosure, we talk about English Bulldogs here. French bulldogs are a different story. Frenchies are pointy-eared, tiny versions of their English relatives, originally bred in the s by mating said relatives with the now-extinct toy bulldogs. American bulldogs and boxers fall into this bull breed category, too, but are also very different animals. Breed History English bulldogs are non-sporting canines. They were originally bred for bull-baiting, a horrible practice in medieval Europe that involved forcing the dogs to taunt and bite bulls. No, thank you! Today, bulldogs have been bred to be kinder, gentler and generally more playful pups—yet physically they still resemble their rough ancestors and, occasionally, some of their ancient nasty behavior seeps out. Temperament A few of those nasty behaviors include stubbornness and aggression. Bulldogs can be super territorial of their food, so weaning them off this tendency early is key see Training below. For the most part, bulldogs are known for their loyalty, friendliness and chill factor. Tug-of-war is to bulldogs what tennis is to Serena. Size Adult bulldogs reach 14 to 15 inches tall and can weigh up to 40 to 50 pounds. Females are generally smaller than males by about 10 pounds. Build Due to their specialized breeding history, bulldogs are muscular and dense. They are also a dysplastic breed, which means their hip sockets are shallower than those of most dogs. Some have straight tails while others have little curlicues. Notable Features English bulldogs have short, glossy coats that come in a variety of colors. Life Expectancy English Bulldogs typically live only eight to ten years. Training Because bulldogs can be stubborn, training early is critical. Companion Level Bulldogs are wonderful companions and great with kids. Their sturdy build and calm demeanor make them troopers when it comes to strong kid grips and rough petting. Plus, they are loyal lovers and enjoy company. However, make sure they are trained not to bite people early on. If a child startles them, they could snip. When it comes to other pets, bulldogs are more often than not on board and ready to mingle. They tend to be more aggressive when it comes to same-gender doggie playmates, so two males in one household could cause issues. Feeding As with most dogs, bulldogs run the risk of becoming overweight, so feeding them enough to maintain their thick build without overdoing it is key. So…look out for that. The reason bulldogs are so expensive is the mating and birth processes are highly complicated aka all bulldog babies are the products of artificial insemination and C-sections. Of course, you can always adopt a bulldog from a shelter! Grooming Bulldogs are big shedders. Brushing them at least once a week preferably three times is encouraged. And beware: The skin on their faces piles up into folds, which can cause skin ailments when dirt or moisture gets caught in the wrinkles. Be sure to watch for itchy, red skin and clean between these folds often. Activity Level Bulldogs can pack on the pounds easily join the club so regular exercise is necessary. A brisk walk or rambunctious tug-of-war is great. Just watch out for heat, water and stairs. And while they can swim, deep water easily gets into their noses increasing the likelihood of drowning. Finally, going down stairs is tricky for their shoulder-heavy bodies. Health Issues Bulldogs definitely have their fair share of potential health issues. The biggest health issues bulldogs face are respiratory- and mobility-related. Due to a pesky disorder called brachycephalic syndrome, caused by their short snouts, breathing can be difficult and may require surgery if your bulldog also suffers from narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate or a narrow windpipe. Bulldogs also experience more hip dysplasia than any other breed. Roughly 72 percent of bulldogs experience joint or bone problems due to bad hips in their lifetime. Some bulldogs develop eye ailments like extra eyelashes, flipped lids or irritated corneas. Weird Facts Bulldogs have notoriously bad gas. Despite his gloomy mug, English bulldog is the friendliest of all breeds. However, it tops the list of most popular breeds in Los Angeles and New York. Calm, friendly and courageous, this pooch is owned by many famous personalities including Leonardo DiCaprio, Reese Witherspoon, Martha Stewart, and many more! As you can see from the name, they get their name from this sport too. Bull baiting was a sport of harassing tethered animals and bulldogs were forced to take part in this sport. The broad and low stature of this breed made it a brilliant animal to harass bulls. The stout stature and under-bite made it easier for bulldogs to grab onto what they were biting. Fortunately, this blood sport was outlawed in the 19th century. But after England banned the bull-baiting, the breed has drastically changed since they were no longer needed for the original purpose. They were bred to be much friendlier and smaller and became companion animals. Earlier they were known for their aggressive and tenacious behavior, but now they are the most loyal and lovable dogs. They Closely Escaped Extinction Once England banned the bull baiting, bulldogs usefulness suddenly came to an end. Dog lovers decided to breed out the ferocious qualities. Fanciers bred these dogs to have kinder and gentler demeanor. Some bulldogs were sent to Germany and USA to work as herding dogs while some stayed back in England as companions. English bulldogs are also considered brachycephalic dogs that make them ill-suited for water. They can drown if they ever attempt to swim. Their short, stocky and broad body cannot handle it. Keep Them Cool Despite their fear of water, bulldogs need to keep cool all the time. The breed is sensitive to heat and thrives best in temperate climates. They sometimes overheat and have breathing difficulty, but they relax easily in chilled temperatures. Bulldogs Need Help With Reproduction Having such large heads and small birth canals precludes pups from being delivered naturally. Most of the English bulldog puppies are delivered by C-section because natural birth can cause injury or lead to death. Also, bulldogs have difficulty in conceiving as males have a hard time reaching females. So, to keep the bulldogs away from physical stress, breeders often decide on artificial insemination. They are problem solvers and can solve them without taking guidance from their owners. Bulldogs are very affectionate and form a strong bond with kids, which make them a perfect pick for families. However, you need to train them consistently as they can be stubborn and dominating. They are super friendly with family pets but can be wary around strange dogs. And, bulldogs are extremely social dogs. No matter if you are a human or a dog, they will try to befriend you. Along with their loving nature, English bulldogs are also suited for the night shift guarding the house. Their cute eyes and wrinkly face is what makes this breed adorable and stand out from the crowd. However, these wrinkles need to be cleaned and wiped regularly to avoid infections. Talented Skateboarders English bulldogs puppies and grown bulldogs are not considered the most active breed. But, they do have a hidden talent. They are skateboarders! Many bulldogs have gained popularity over the time for their skateboarding abilities. Otto, a three-year-old bulldog, is a skateboarding sensation. Popular Mascots English bulldogs make great mascots. Some refer bulldogs as cute and cuddle whereas some consider them sturdy and powerful, but we love to call them mascot. Nearly 40 universities in the USA have named their sports teams after this breed. Ending note: Bulldogs are dearly loved around the world, but we bet you are equally amazed by these facts. Bulldogs are undoubtedly the most adorable pet you can get for your home. Also, for us bulldog owners we know that they are forever babies. Despite their stubborn nature, they hardly get into any trouble. This cute, cuddly dog loves to relax and chill. If you have a crazy and stressful life and want to chill out, a bulldog will be an excellent pick for you. The calm, laid back and gentle nature of the dog has the same effect on their surroundings. You Might Also Enjoy:.
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All puppies priced at Fair market value with the cost of raising the litter, vet bills, and the Mom and Dad's care added in for the next year for vaccines, quality foods, grooming, heart guard, treats, flea preventatives and a loving home enviroment to raise their babies! Highly Veterinarian recommended with many references at your request. Husky Puppies for sale. We analyzed the prices of 23 French Bulldog puppies that were listed for sale in Louisiana. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are one of two Corgi breeds, and their stubby legs and goofy grins have been captivating hearts for decades. They are dedicated to providing families with beautiful, healthy, and well-socialized Maltese puppies. Located in Vidalia and Harrisonburg, Yorkies of Louisiana has some of the best pups for sale. 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This breed comes in a variety of colors, and while these dogs always look like a mixture of a Greyhound and a German Shepherd, you never know which look will be dominant. As is the case with their parents, this is a medium to large-sized dog , with a greater chance of being large. While Greyhounds normally have a shorter coat of hair, you will notice that the coat on this breed will more resemble the medium-length coarseness of the Shepherd. Because of this, your Greyhound German requires more hygienic maintenance than a Greyhound. Regular brushing and bathing is recommended with this breed. Like both parent breeds, this is an active dog that is athletically built. When you decide to take this pet into your life, you are also deciding to play that much more! When playing, this breed loves to get rowdy! They may seem disinterested in people at first, but once you have their trust, you have a play partner for life. Greyhound parents have a long history. While many people associate greyhounds with the racetrack, those who study history know them from the distant past. The earliest signs of Greyhounds come from ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics; the earliest ones are purported to be as old as 8, years. Greyhounds are visible with famous Egyptian figures such as Cleopatra and King Tutankhamen. In fact, the Greyhound was so highly revered they were seen as gods that the only death more important in a family was that of a son, and to kill a Greyhound meant being sentenced to death. Esteemed Grecians who visited Egypt were able to bring a few dogs back to Greece. The Greyhound became a worldly dog during the Roman Empire, when the Romans, who brought their Greyhounds everywhere, took them to Britain and Ireland. Eventually, from Europe, they made their way to America. No one is sure about the origin of the name. German Shepherd genetics make them super versatile. After 7, years of the Greyhound, the German Shepherd was born. One look at the name, and you can take a pretty good guess at where most people think it originated. They first appeared in after decades of Europeans attempting to standardize breeds. Their name is quite literal: Bred by shepherds in Germany, these dogs were meant to make life easier for the German farmer. These dogs were bred to be all the things that we think of German Shepherds now: smart, strong, and loyal, with a great sense of smell. While early breeders had success, results still varied from one location to the next, most notably in appearance. In , the Phylax Society was formed to help the standardization process, but in-fighting over whether the dog should be cute or hard working led to the demise of this group after only three years of operation. Fortunately, this inspired many to attempt to breed their own version of the Shepherd. This leads us to , when an ex-member of the Phylax Society, Max Von Stephanitz, attended a dog show and had a similar reaction that we all do when we see a dog, which was the need to go give it a hug. In his case, it ended up being a historic moment, as the dog he laid his eyes on was a Shepherd named Hektor, whom he immediately purchased. The rest, as they bark, is history. Well, not quite — there was a bump in the road for the name of the dog in the s and 40s. They changed the name of the breed to the Alsatian Wolf Dog, which was then adopted by other Kennel Clubs around the world. In the 70s, the breed was once again officially recognized as the German Shepherd While the German Shepherd is a wonderful family dog, it is still primarily used as a working dog by police forces, military, and other groups. Mixing the purebred parents has its benefits. This lovely hybrid has the perfect combination of ideal dog traits. They are built to be loyal, caring, affectionate, and cuddly. When you want to spend the day in bed, they will be the first to snuggle in next to you. The Shepherd Hound loves to cuddle and can be every bit as lazy as the laziest fluff balls on the planet. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, each breed wil offer a friendly and sweet companion to any other fur babies you have in your home. They also get along well with cats and other pets, especially if they have been socialized well from a young age. Owners of Shephounds know that they are not aggressive or hyper pooches. Instead, they are always easygoing and friendly. And they always enjoy making friends with new people. The dogs are also friendly to strangers. When they meet unfamiliar people, their first reaction is one of curiosity rather than protection. They are the kind that would meet your guests and find a safe place to stay while you chat with your guests. It is one of the best designer dogs since he is not an unruly or an off-character dog. Although Shephounds may seem a bit reserved at first, they normally get along with other dogs within a short period of time. As such, the German Greyhound is a friendly dog that makes a great family pet. When it comes to barking, both Greyhounds and German Shepherds tend to be very vocal and can howl or bark frequently. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Training A German Shepherd Greyhound Mix The Greyhound Shepherd is trainable if you are ready to dedicate at least 30 minutes each day in training your puppy. They are not particularly easy to train, but they are also not so challenging. They are generally somewhere in between. GSDs are intelligent and easy to train. Greyhounds, on the other hand, tend to be stubborn and can be difficult to train. Therefore, you should start housetraining your Shephound as soon as you bring them home. You should actually dedicate some time to housetrain them each day. Training your German Greyhound early will help prevent behavioral issues from developing in your pup. With patience and consistency, you can successfully train your Greyhound Mixed with German Shepherd. But if you are not confident enough, you can always seek professional advice and training. A good dog trainer can successfully train your dog so you end up with a well-behaved family pet. Exercise Needs It is difficult to know how much each German Greyhound will require. Generally, the German Shepherd requires more exercise than the Greyhound. A German Shepherd needs one to two hours of daily exercise while a Greyhound will do fine with a minute walk each day. Your German Greyhound will most likely be somewhere in the middle. However, both parent breeds require more exercise than smaller dogs. Be sure to provide your Greyhound Shepherd with enough room to play and run around. Also, take your pooch on a walk once or twice each day for at least 30 minutes. Since the German Shepherd parent is intelligent, you also want to provide your Greyhound Shepherd with interactive dog toys to help keep him occupied and mentally stimulated. In order to know the grooming needs of German Shepherd Greyhound mixes, we need to study the grooming requirements of each parent breed. A German Shepherd should be brushed after every one or two days. Since their coat has a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat, they shed all-year-round and they also blow their coat twice per year. A simple rundown with a piece of cloth at least once a week should be enough for these pups. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds need a bath at least once a month. Apart from brushing and bathing, you should trim their nails from time to time to prevent them from splitting. Also, check and clean their ears regularly for dirt or wax buildup to prevent infections. Regular tooth brushing is also essential for your Greyhound German Shepherd Mix. Here are nine health problems common to a German Shepherd Mix Greyhound: 1. Cherry eye Unlike us humans, our dogs have 3 instead of 2 eyelids and under that third eyelid is the nictitans gland. Though this condition does not require an emergency trip to the vet, if not addressed, a prolapsed nictitans gland reduces tear production and dry eyes. Severe cases can cause blindness. Epilepsy This is a neurological problem wherein the exact cause is hard to identify. There is no cure, instead, medications and a change to a vet-prescribed diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of the seizures. Skin infections Skin problems arising from ticks , fleas, food, or a sudden change in temperature may cause some dogs to suffer from skin allergies. The symptoms are itching, reddening of the skin, or hair loss. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition that results from a hip deformity. Blame it on genetics, big dogs such as a German Shepherd is susceptible to this condition. One of the causes is playing around after eating a large amount of food. This requires an emergency trip to the vet. If not, a dog can die from a bloated stomach. Canine degenerative myelopathy Canine degenerative myelopathy is a disease that is caused by the breaking down of white matter in the spinal cord. This results in weakness and eventually paralysis. It commonly affects older dogs. The first few symptoms are wobbling and pain while getting up. Osteosarcoma Osteosarcoma in dogs is a very painful bone tumor in dogs. It is more commonly found among larger dog breeds rather than small dog breeds. Elbow dysplasia This disease is also a developmental abnormality where the three bones in the elbow joint fail to fit together. This is more common among larger dog breeds. Cataract Aside from age, canine cataracts can also be caused by an eye lens disease, diabetes, or nutritional deficiency. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix lifespan If you provide your German Shepherd Greyhound Mix with proper nutrition, exercise, and regular trips to the vet for wellness exams, you can enjoy their company and companionship for an average of 9 to 14 years. You may also want to attend dog shows because in almost all cases, dog handlers can introduce you to other German Shepherd Mix breeders. Keep in mind that when you are dealing with German Shepherd Greyhound Mix breeders, always expect the breeder to show you the mother with her puppies. You should also expect the breeders to give you an insurance document. This way, in case the puppy gets sick within a certain timeframe, you will get a puppy replacement or the breeder will be the one to shoulder the treatment expenses. Generally speaking, male puppies are more active, playful, and territorial. Plus, male dogs tend to urine mark more often than female dogs. On the one hand, a female Greyhound German Shepherd Mix puppy will begin to go into heat by around 6 months of age. This equates to more work because of bloodstains around the house. Regardless of your choice, your German Shepherd Greyhound Mix puppy should have received two vaccinations, been dewormed, and microchipped before you bring him or her home. There may be crossbred puppies that are sold at a more affordable price range. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix puppies for sale As mentioned earlier, it is not easy to look for Greyhound Shepherd puppies. Instead, we will provide you with a list of trusted breeders of German Shepherds and Greyhounds. These breeders may offer you referrals to those who crossbreed these two purebred dogs. Greyhound Friends for Life greyhoundfriendsforlife. They were able to find a loving home for a 5-month-old Greyhound Shepherd puppy. You can get in touch with them and find out if they still have Greyhound mixed-dog breeds up for adoption. Lancaster Puppies lancasterpuppies. We do not guarantee you that there is a German Shepherd Greyhound Mix but you can check their website from time to time. KraftwerkK9 kraftwerkk9. Having been in the business for a long period, they might give you referrals to where you can find rare Greyhound Shepherd puppies for sale. They have a list of available mixed dogs for adoption. To adopt, fill out the adoption form and in three days, an adoption counselor will get in touch with you. You can also visit the Petfinder petfinder. Greyhound Pets, Inc greyhoundpetsinc. If your application is approved, a staff member will schedule a home visit to check if you are qualified to adopt a dog. Contact them and see if they have available German Shepherd Greyhound Mix up for adoption. GSD-Greyhound mix puppies can inherit either of the two coat types and so their appearance will greatly depend on which parent they take after. Apart from length and texture, the coat color could also be one of a great number of possibilities. Given all these possibilities, German Shepherd-Greyhound crosses tend to look vastly different from one another. Typically, all they need is a weekly rubdown using a hound glove or a damp cloth. In contrast, those that take their coats after their German Shepherd side have double coats that shed steadily throughout the year and then more heavily twice a year. GSDs need to be brushed at least once a week, but more frequently during the shedding season. As for the rest of their grooming requirements, a Greyhound-German Shepherd mix will need regular bathing and frequent tooth brushing. Strength Even though Greyhounds are not particularly known for its strength, its offspring with a GSD will undoubtedly be a strong dog. This is not just because of its size but also because it can take its strength after its German Shepherd parent. Additionally, its size alone can make it capable of developing great strength. GSD-Greyhound crosses are expected to run somewhere between those speeds. Exercise Requirement Because German Shepherds are incredibly energetic and Greyhounds even more so, you should be ready to give the Greyhound GSD mix plenty of opportunities to exercise. Ideally, they would get at least an hour of physical exercise per day apart from having access to ample space where they can run and play independently. Apart from physical exercise, the GSD-Greyhound cross needs opportunities to use their mental faculties so that they stay on their best behavior. They need toys and activities that stimulate their brains. Generally, this need can be met through regular training exercises. Nevertheless, what they lack in intelligence, they make up for in their eagerness to please their humans. The trainability of a Greyhound German Shepherd mix will depend on which parent they take after. Although the intellect of GSD-Greyhound mixes can vary greatly, you can at least expect them to be easily housetrained and learn basic obedience with ease. Temperament German Shepherd-Greyhound crosses are confident and courageous dogs. With proper training and socialization, they can be excellent family dogs. However, because of the prey drive they might inherit from their Greyhound parent, they might need extra training and supervision if they need to share a home with smaller animals. Additionally, Greyhound-GSDs are generally even-tempered and they are known to be gentle with their family members. Health German Shepherd-Greyhound mixes are generally healthy, although they are susceptible to life-threatening bloat. Owners of this crossbreed should talk to a vet about how to avoid this condition. Additionally, hip and elbow dysplasia are conditions that the German Shepherd-Greyhound cross can inherit from their GSD parent. From the Greyhound side, the most serious health concern is a genetic condition called Greyhound Polyneuropathy. This is a progressive neurological disorder that severely affects their muscles. Lifespan A Greyhound-German Shepherd mix can be expected to live between 10 and 14 years. Like all other dogs, they can live beyond the life expectancy of their parents when they are given a balanced, high-quality diet. Ample exercise, proper hygiene, and regular vet examinations will further enable them to lead long and happy lives. By enrolling in this program, dogs that are not eligible for purebred registration and are disqualified from conformation events can participate in many other AKC events. These include canine sports like Agility , Flyball , and Diving Dogs. The GSD Greyhound mix is not very common. So, professional breeders do not have enough financial incentive to propagate this cross. Final Thoughts A Greyhound German Shepherd mix is undeniably a beautiful dog with a noble quality and a pleasing personality. Nevertheless, it is a large dog with boundless energy. A Greyhound shepherd is a mix between a German Shepherd and a Greyhound. Both German shepherds and Greyhounds are large dogs, and so is the Greyhound Shepherd. Every German Shepherd Greyhound mix will be different. It is impossible to know which traits the mixed pup will inherit from its father and which traits it will get from its mother. However, most German Shepherd Greyhound mixes share some specific characteristics. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are large dogs, so you can expect a Greyhound Shepherd to be a medium to a large dog as well. You can also expect this mix to have a coat of hair that is somewhat in between the short hair of a Greyhound and the thicker, coarser hair of a German Shepherd. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are athletic dogs. The Greyhound, in particular, is very muscular and can run very fast. As such, you can expect a mixed dog to be athletic as well and probably stronger and more muscular than a regular German shepherd. Like the German Shepherd, the Greyhound is very loving, affectionate, and loyal. And as such, whether a mixed pup takes after its mother or father, you can expect it to be gentle, fun-loving, loyal, and affectionate, both with you and your kids. As for its exact appearance, expect a lot of variety depending on how much it takes after its mother or father. Regardless, this particular mix is always cute and adorable. Before you get any dog, it is important to know what the breed is like. Are they small or large? Gentle or aggressive? Fun-loving or introverted? Athletic or restful? Will it bark, or is it almost always quiet? It is important to know what you are looking for as well and what you can handle. As mentioned, the Greyhound Shepherd is a large dog. You will need enough space to keep it satisfied. If you have very little extra room in your apartment, you might want to consider getting a smaller dog. A male German Shepherd Greyhound mix can be up to 30 inches tall though it is likely to be a couple of inches shorter if it has more German Shepherd traits. Also, remember that both German Shepherds and Greyhounds love to run around. After all, German Shepherds were bred for shepherding purposes and have evolved to live in big, open spaces. Greyhounds love open spaces as well. If you have a fenced in front or back yard where your dog can run around and enjoy itself, as well as enough room in the house, a Greyhound Shepherd is a good choice. Greyhounds are not known to be aggressive, and neither are German Shepherds. In fact, both are generally described as docile and gentle. However, Greyhounds are extremely fast and very strong dogs, and many German Shepherd Greyhound mixes will be as well. As such, it is important to know how to train your dog properly. If you are a first-time dog owner and are looking for a gentle dog, a Greyhound Shepherd should not be removed from the running automatically. However, be aware that it will probably be strong, fast, and powerful, and if you have small kids around, it might be better to get a smaller dog. Important Note If you are planning on adopting an abandoned German Shepherd Greyhound mix, they may be traumatized and living in a state of fear. This is because many Greyhounds are adopted out of a former life of being abused as racing dogs. The trauma that a dog suffers from this unethical practice can cause deeply ingrained and long lasting fear in a Greyhound. Because of this, it is very important that you be prepared to spend adequate time training this mix through positive reinforcement. If you do not have the time or confidence to do this yourself, be sure that you are prepared to reach out to a professional dog trainer, as neglecting this step will lead to a lower quality of life for your dog, and may even bring about some very preventable aggression issues. Although they are not usually acquired to be guard dogs, they are fiercely loyal and will stand up for you until the end. Greyhounds, in particular, are lightning-fast and are sometimes bought for racing purposes. They are one of the most easily recognizable dog breeds and are popular in households worldwide. He went on to found a club for German Shepherds, with his own German Shepherd being an original club member. Eventually, Max von Stephanitz realized that not only were German Shepherds great for herding, but they would also serve as great companions and helpers in the police and military. For that reason, he encouraged their use in police work, which is why so many are used in policing today. German shepherds are kind, loyal, affectionate, wise, and easy to train. They are also athletic and generally very healthy and able dogs. They are great with kids and forever loyal. They are tall dogs, with the average male being between inches centimeters. German Shepherds have thick, coarse hair, so they will shed a lot. As such, they require a lot of maintenance. German Shepherd owners know how much they love to run outside. If you have a large yard, they will really enjoy themselves. On the other hand, if you have a garden or have carefully planted flowers and other plants, your German Shepherd can end up ruining them. Like all dogs, German shepherds must be trained. Here are some things to know before getting a German Shepherd: Greyhound Basic Facts Greyhounds are very large dogs as well, with an average male growing up to 30 inches tall. Unlike German Shepherds, they are very skinny without a lot of hair. In fact, they look very different from German Shepherds, which is why the German shepherd Greyhound mix has a lot of potential for variety. Greyhounds, as mentioned, are very fast dogs. Because they can run up to 45 miles an hour, they have been historically bred to be hunting dogs. They can hunt rabbits, foxes, and even larger animals such as deer. Unfortunately, some people also breed them for racing. However, this does not mean that they can not be aggressive. When not trained properly, or if they adopted and living under a state of constant fear, they can become aggressive. Many times, however, they are just trying to play, and this is mistaken for aggression. Greyhounds are also generally obedient and easy to train. Here are some things to know before getting a Greyhound: What to Expect With the German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Now that you know a little about the German Shepherd and the Greyhound, you can understand what you might be getting with the German shepherd Greyhound mix. Here are some things to expect: Loyalty As mentioned, both the German Shepherd and the Greyhound are extremely loyal. Because of this, you can expect a Greyhound Shepherd to be very loyal as well. If you are looking for a companion to double as a guard dog, a Greyhound Shepherd would be a good choice, not because they are aggressive dogs but because they are fiercely loyal until the end. If your sole purpose of getting a dog is to get a guard dog , a Greyhound Shepherd is probably not the best bet. Gentleness Since both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are gentle, you can expect a Greyhound Shepherd to be gentle as well. This is why it is important to be mindful if you have small children. Yes, your Greyhound Shepherd might be gentle, but it is also quick and strong. While it may just be playing and it probably only means well, it can still end up hurting a small child or baby by mistake. Greyhounds typically are thin and have a thin coat of hair. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have rough, thick, coarse hair. They also shed a lot. Most Greyhound Shepherds will be somewhere in between. They will likely shed a fair amount of hair, but not as much as a German Shepherd, and it will probably require more maintenance and cleaning than a Greyhound, but probably not as much as a German shepherd. Health Concerns Most Greyhound Shepherds are generally healthy. However, like all dogs, they are susceptible to health problems. As a dog owner, it is important to know about these problems so that you can properly care for your dog and take them to the vet in a timely manner if you spot any warning signs or red flags. Cherry Eye Dogs have a third eyelid, which can become swollen. This is known as cherry eye. The exact cause of cherry eye is unknown it may be hereditary , but it can be treated through anti-inflammatory medications or surgery. Bloat What is commonly known as bloat is actually officially called Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus. Sometimes, it is also referred to as GDV. This can happen rather quickly. And if this does happen, their intestines can flip on themselves. GDV or bloat can be life-threatening to your dog. That is why it must be treated right away. Since Greyhound Shepherds are large dogs, they are more susceptible to bloat. Although it is more common in deep-chested dogs, it has been reported in Greyhounds as well. Symptoms can include retching without anything coming out, a swollen abdomen, and breathing difficulty. Again, GDV is life-threatening and must be treated right away. Surgery will be required. Joint Problems Greyhound Shepherds can suffer from hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is genetic and refers to an abnormality and deformity of the hip, and elbow dysplasia refers to the deformity of the elbow. Hip and elbow dysplasia can lead to arthritis and problems such as difficulty moving around and a decreased range of motion. It is important to treat dysplasia with surgery before it gets worse and turns into degenerative joint disease. Dysplasia is common in larger dogs, which is why Greyhound Shepherds are at risk. Greyhound shepherds can also suffer from degenerative myelopathy , which is a spinal cord disease. Skin Conditions Like all dogs, Greyhound Shepherds can suffer from various skin conditions. These can include bacterial infections such as strep, fungal infections, and cysts. They can also include warts and irritation. Fortunately, most skin conditions can be treated and alleviated. UTIs can be painful and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems. If your dog is having trouble urinating or is bleeding while urinating, get it checked by your vet. Depending on the cause of the infection, it may be simple to treat. Epilepsy Dogs can experience seizures for a number of reasons. It may be due to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar or the result of a stroke or brain tumor, but it can be inherited. Since Greyhounds often experience this type of seizure, you can expect a Greyhound Shepherd to be at risk as well. Trainability In general, it is easy to train a Greyhound Shepherd because of their high level of intelligence. However, remember that they are powerful and strong too. You should have some experience with training dogs. You can also get a professional trainer to help. Be gentle with them, but be firm when needed — always using positive reinforcement. Be consistent and give them rewards to motivate them. Temperament If you train your Greyhound Shepherd properly, you can expect it to be kind and gentle. They may get excited at times and want to run around, and that is okay. Make sure they have a way to release their pent-up energy so that they can continue being kind, gentle, and loving. If they feel trapped and cooped up, they are more likely to be unhappy or even aggressive. Nutritional Requirements Greyhound Shepherds are large dogs, so they will need a lot of food to help them stay strong and healthy. Make sure they get a lot of calories and protein but make sure your dog is getting vitamins and minerals through vegetables as well. Protein can come from sources such as raw beef and lamb. However, make sure not to overfeed your dog, as obesity can lead to many problems , including diabetes and joint issues. If you are unsure, ask your vet for guidance, as each dog is different. Exercise Requirements It is hard to say how much exercise your Shephound will need. German Shepherds generally need more exercise than Greyhounds; a Greyhound might be fine after a daily minute walk, while a German shepherd might need up to two hours of exercise. Your Greyhound Shepherd will probably fall in somewhere in between. Nonetheless, both breeds need more exercise than a smaller breed. Make sure to provide a Shephound room to run around and take it on a walk at least once or twice a day for minutes. If they need more time to run around, give it to them, but if they just want to relax, that is okay as well. Cost Greyhounds are quite expensive, and German shepherds are not cheap either. Greyhound Shepherds are also rare, so you can expect the cost to go up because of that. If you are on a small budget, a Greyhound Shepherd is not for you unless you plan on adopting one that happens to be available. Final Thoughts Greyhound Shepherds are extremely intelligent, loving, and loyal dogs. They are perfect if you want a large but gentle dog that is easy to train and who will be loyal and protect you. However, they are not cheap, but they are most certainly worth the cost! As we have established, this crossbreed is a mix between a German Shepherd and a Greyhound. They are both large breeds of dog, so as you would expect, the result of this cross-breeding is also a big dog. These terms are used interchangeably to describe this crossbreed. As these dogs are a mix, no two puppies will be the same. This is because it is impossible to know what personality traits and characteristics will be taken from each breed, making every dog different. Despite this, there are a few things that you can expect from this crossbreed. The main one being its size. You can generally determine the size that a litter of puppies will grow to by looking at the parents. As both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are large breed dogs, you can rest assured that the puppies will also be large. You can also expect them to be muscular, affectionate, and loyal. Is this the right mixed breed for You? Before you welcome any dog into your home, you need to decide if this is the right breed for you. Here are some of the key things that you need to consider before making that decision: Time One of the most important things that you need to consider before buying a Shephound, or any dog for that matter, is if you have the time to dedicate to this dog. Dogs are hard work, and they require a lot of time and effort if you want them to be well-behaved and loyal. This is especially important with Shephounds as both the Greyhound and German Shepherd breeds can be nervous at times. A lot of this is down to the fact that both breeds have been treated badly historically. A lot of Greyhounds are traumatized from a history of being forced to race against their will, and because of this, it can take a lot of time for these dogs to adjust to being family pets. Likewise, a lot of German Shepherds have lived their lives as working dogs, so it can take a little while for them to adjust to being pets too. You should bear this in mind when buying a Shephound. Space Another major thing that you need to consider before bringing a Shephound into your home is whether, or not, you have the space for a dog of this size. While they may be small when they are puppies, these puppies quickly grow into large dogs, so it is very important that you have enough space in your home for them. Nothing can prepare you for quite how big these dogs are, and as they grow in your home, they can quickly shrink your house. But, these dogs are large and heavy, so they take up a lot of space. If you only have a small house, or you have a large but busy house, then you might want to consider if you have the physical space to give to this dog before bringing one home. Professional Training Finally, you need to consider your provisions for giving this breed professional dog training. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, so they will require training. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds often have a very high prey drive , and this can make them very difficult to control when you are out walking them. This can be very difficult to do, which is why you should ensure that you have access to a professional trainer to help you. But, as both Greyhounds and German Shepherds are breeds that have existed for centuries, there are lots of facts that we know about these dogs. Without a doubt, German Shepherds are one of the most striking dog breeds in the world. With just a single look, you can easily identify one of these breeds by their classic black and tan markings, wonderful gait, and simply breathtaking look. They are famous for being one of the most loyal dog breeds to exist and are also well-known for being fiercely protective of their owner and their pack. These dogs absolutely adore being outdoors, and this is one of the main reasons why they make such wonderful herding dogs. This is, after all, where their name comes from. Instead, they are better known for being used as working dogs in the military, police , and even as support dogs for people who are blind or living with other disabilities. The main reason why these dogs are so commonly used as working dogs is that they are so easy to train. German Shepherds are undoubtedly one of the most intelligent breeds on the planet. Anyone who has ever owned a German Shepherd will tell you that this breed can learn a trick after only one or two goes, they simply are that smart. They are affectionate, loyal, and kind. They really do make the perfect companion, and you know that you are never alone as long as you have a German Shepherd by your side. These dogs are energetic and healthy, and absolutely wonderful with children and other pets. This is why they are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of similarities between these two breeds, and this is why this crossbreed works so well. Just like German Shepherds, Greyhounds are also a large breed of dog. In terms of height, they are very similar, but Greyhounds are a lot thinner than German Shepherds. As Greyhounds were bred to run, they are extremely skinny, to the point where you can often see their ribs. While German Shepherd dogs are bred to be a lot bulkier. Yes, Greyhounds do look very slim, but this is because they carry absolutely zero body fat. Just by looking at a Greyhound, you can see how muscular they are, and this is partly aided by the fact that they have a very short coat. Greyhounds are most famous for being fast. These dogs have been racing dogs, and unfortunately, this practice still goes on today. Due to the shape of their body, Greyhounds are able to reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, which is why they have been used in racing. But traditionally, Greyhounds were bred as hunting dogs with the ability to hunt foxes, rabbits, and even deer. They are unbelievably calm, and will spend a lot of their time sleeping. Just like German Shepherds, Greyhounds are incredibly loving, and there is nothing that this breed likes more than cuddling up to their owner and giving them lots of wet kisses. While they will be loving to all members of their pack, Greyhounds tend to choose one member to be their person, and if that person is you then you are truly blessed. They are incredibly smart, and as long as they are trained, then these dogs will not become aggressive. This is why they make such wonderful pets. Key Characteristics of the German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Shephound We have looked at these breeds independently, but it is time that we look at them together. Every Shephound is different as it is a crossbreed, however, there are some key characteristics that you can expect. One is the fact that your puppy is going to have a lot of growing to do. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are breeds that transform a lot during the first 6 months of their life. So, this makes it difficult to tell what their coat is going to look like when they grow up. It is also partly because these two breeds have very different coats. German Shepherds have incredibly thick fur, with multiple different layers, while Greyhounds have very thin coats which help make them more aerodynamic. Due to this, it is impossible to tell exactly what your Shephounds coat is going to be. If your Shephound is a mixture of a short coat German Shepherd and a Greyhound, then you can expect the fur to be mid-way between the two. However, if your Shephound is part long-hair German Shepherd, then there is no knowing just how thick their coat will be. Gentle Something that you can almost guarantee from a Shephound is that they are going to be gentle. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are docile breeds, and they are well-known for being gentle around their owners. So, this is something that you can expect from a Shephound. But, these dogs will have moments of madness. While these dogs will be calm and gentle most of the time, there will be periods where they will be hyper. When this happens, it is important to remember that Shephounds are big dogs, and they are incredibly strong. Loyal But there is one thing which you can definitely guarantee from a Shephound, and it is their undying loyalty. So, whether you are looking for a Shephound as a guard dog or a companion, you can always trust your Shephound to be by your side. However, if you are looking for a dog to use as a guard dog, then a Shephound might not be the best choice. You would be much better off choosing a pedigree German Shepherd. But if you want a dog that has your back until the end, then a Shephound is absolutely perfect. All dogs suffer from health conditions, and the majority of breeds will have genetic predispositions to certain issues. Joint Problems The most prevalent potential health condition that your Shephound might suffer from is joint problems. In particular, hip and elbow dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where there is a deformity in the hip or the elbow, which can lead to limited mobility and arthritis as your dog ages. This is a common health issue for both German Shepherds and Greyhounds, which is why this is the condition that your dog is most likely to suffer from. In fact, this is a condition that most large dogs, and even large cats, suffer with. This condition is a degenerative disease, so the earlier that you pick up on it, the better. That way, you can treat it early and prevent your Shephound from suffering too greatly with this condition. Skin Conditions Another part of the body that both Greyhounds and German Shepherds often suffer with is their skin. Both breeds are genetically predisposed to skin conditions, so there is a fair chance that your Shephound could suffer from this too. In particular, German Shepherds are prone to allergies, which can lead to a lot of scratching and discomfort. Cherry Eye Something else that these breeds are often prone to suffering with is cherry eye. This condition displays itself as a red lump on the third eyelid. This red lump is actually an enlarged and swollen gland that has become infected due to allergies. All dogs are at risk of experiencing this, and it is a very common condition. So, just be prepared that you might have to go to your vet to get conditions like this treated if you get a German Shepherd Greyhound mix. Epilepsy The final condition that your Shephound might be prone to is epilepsy. This is a condition that a lot of Greyhounds develop, so there is a small chance that your Shephound may also suffer from this. Epilepsy affects dogs similarly to how it affects humans, so if your Greyhound Shepherd develops this condition, then they may experience seizures. Dogs can experience seizures with lots of different causes behind it. Some dogs will fit if they become too hot, or dehydrated. But, these seizures could be caused by a health condition such as epilepsy or diabetes. So, you should be prepared that this condition could also develop in your Shephound. If your German Shepherd Greyhound mix does begin to experience seizures, then you should seek veterinary advice immediately. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Temperament One of the biggest influences on whether you will choose a dog breed, or not, is temperament. Everybody wants their dog to have a good temperament, and for their dog to be loving. This is why a lot of people purchase dogs based on the temperament of that breed. So what is the Shephound temperament like? As we have said, Greyhound Shepherds are incredibly loving dogs, and above all else, they are loyal. Fiercely loyal, in fact. Generally, these dogs have a calm temperament, and they are usually very gentle. Especially when they are around children and small animals. But, for the most part, these dogs are lovely. Walk them regularly, and train them well when they are young, and you will have a fiercely loyal companion for the rest of their life. Ability to Train Speaking of training, you may also be wondering how easy it is to train a German Shepherd Greyhound Mix. Well, as you might expect, it is usually very easy to train a Shephound. These dogs are incredibly intelligent, and because of this, they can often pick up tricks incredibly quickly. A lot of people are surprised at how quickly Shephounds can learn commands, and people are also often surprised at how early in their lives these dogs will begin learning. From as early as 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd Greyhound mix will begin listening to their owner and learning commands. So start early with training, and you will have a very well-behaved dog. Nutritional Requirements Shephounds are very large dogs, so they do have some nutritional requirements. You should avoid feeding them grains as this can lead to GDV a bloating condition , instead you should feed them lots of protein. Make sure their diet is well-balanced with protein, vitamins, minerals, and also high in calories. Exercise Requirements The amount of exercise that your German Shepherd Greyhound mix needs will differ depending on your specific dog. Greyhounds only need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, whereas German Shepherds can need up to 2 h ours. Find a happy medium and go with the amount of exercise that suits your dog. Cost These dogs are expensive. Shephounds are also very rare, so you should expect to spend anywhere in this region for a healthy German Shepherd Greyhound mix. Summary In short, this has been a complete guide to one of the most loving and loyal dog crossbreeds on the planet, the German Shepherd Greyhound mix. So, if you are considering this breed, read this guide before you buy. This mixed breed can vary in size, but they are typically medium to large dogs. What else do you need to know about Greyhound German Shepherd mixes? Large and athletic dogs As both parents are big dogs, it is no surprise that the Greyhound German Shepherd mix is also a large dog. They can weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds and stand at 23 to 30 inches tall. This mixed breed is muscular and athletic, with a long neck and head. In addition to their size, Greyhound German Shepherd mixes are also known for their long legs. Loyal, and affectionate The Greyhound German Shepherd mix is a very loyal breed that will bond closely with its human family. While they can be protective of their loved ones, they are typically gentle and affectionate with children. This breed is also known for being intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. Gentle, quick, and strong The Greyhound German Shepherd mix is gentle, quick, and strong. They are very agile and fast, making them perfect for agility or other dog sports. For instance, Greyhound German Shepherd mixes do well in obedience trials, flyball, and even frisbee! While each dog is unique and no two dogs will have the same personality, there are some common traits among Greyhound German Shepherd mixes. Read on as we delve into some of the main breed traits of this wonderful mixed dog. The German Shepherd was originally bred for herding sheep and other livestock, but they quickly became popular as working dogs in a variety of different fields. The Greyhound, on the other hand, has been around for a long time. One interesting Greyhound fact is that, some historians believe that the Greyhound may have existed in Ancient Egypt over 4, years ago! This mixed breed is relatively rare today, which means that it can be hard to find a responsible breeder if you want to adopt or purchase one. With proper research and planning, you can find and adopt the perfect dog. This is because they are a mixed breed and can inherit any combination of physical traits from their parents. However, most Greyhound German Shepherd mixes are medium to large dogs with long legs and necks. They typically have short, smooth coats that can be any color, but they are most common in black and tan. They range in height from 23 to 30 inches, and they can weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds. The Shephound is also known for its large, pointy ears. Greyhound German Shepherd Mix — Temperament The Greyhound German Shepherd mix is a friendly and intelligent breed that makes a great companion for families with children. This mixed breed is very loyal and affectionate, and they bond closely with their human families. While they can be protective of their loved ones, they are typically gentle and good-natured with children. Importantly, they famously get along with other dogs and pets. So if you have another pet at home, a Shephound could be a great choice for you. Their short, smooth coats only require occasional brushing, and they are average shedders. When brushing your Shephound, be sure to use a good quality comb that can handle tangles and knots. Unlike other Greyhound mixes , they only shed their coats once or twice a year. This will help avoid any infections. This means brushing their teeth at least once a week and taking them to the vet for regular cleanings. German Shepherd chew toys can also help to keep their teeth clean. The most common health problems for this mixed breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies, and bloat Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary joint conditions that can cause pain and mobility problems in your dog. Allergies are also common in German Shepherds, and they can cause a variety of symptoms including itching, runny eyes, and ear infections. Bloat is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the stomach. It is important to watch for signs of bloat in your dog, such as a swollen belly or pacing. If you think your dog is bloated, bring them to the vet immediately. However, some of these can be avoided by finding a responsible breeder who screens their dogs for these conditions before breeding them. Like the Greyhound Retriever mix , this mixed breed does best on a diet of dry kibble or wet food. When choosing a food for your Shephound, make sure to pick one that is high quality and made for large breeds. You will also want to avoid foods with fillers or artificial ingredients, which can cause digestive problems in your dog. Be sure to feed your Greyhound German Shepherd mix small meals per day rather than one large meal, as this can help prevent bloat and other health conditions. What kind of food is recommended? Some good options to include in their diet include: High-quality dry kibble with plenty of protein and fat Wet food that is high in protein, such as fish or beef Freeze-dried raw food, can provide a more natural diet for your dog For treats, avoid foods with lots of sugar or grains. Instead, try to find healthy options like bits of meat or veggies. You should also avoid giving your dog table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. This mixed breed loves to run and play, so they will need an owner who can provide them with plenty of space to do so. A fenced-in yard is ideal, but not required. If you live in an apartment or other small space, you will need to be extra diligent about taking your dog for walks and runs. This breed needs at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, but more is always better. Some good exercise options for your Greyhound German Shepherd mix include: Running or jogging Going for long walks or hikes Swimming The great thing about the Shephound, although they are active dogs, is that a long walk or a vigorous game of fetch should be enough to keep them happy and healthy. This breed is also known for being relatively calm indoors, so they are a good choice for owners with limited space or time. Greyhound German Shepherd Mix — Training The Greyhound German Shepherd mix is a smart breed that is eager to please, so they are relatively easy to train. This mixed breed does best with positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats or praise. It is important to start training your Shephound early, as this breed can be stubborn if not trained properly from a young age. Some good tips to keep in mind when training your Greyhound German Shepherd mix include: Give your dog plenty of space and not be aggressive when training them. Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats or praise, rather than punishments like leash corrections or shouting. Creating a routine for exercise, feeding, and training. If you are consistent and patient when training your Shephound, then they should be easy to train in most situations. This is about average for dogs of this size and type, but there are some things you can do to keep your Shephound healthy and extend its lifespan. Some good tips include: Providing high-quality food and plenty of exercise. Avoid obesity by feeding them the correct amount and not overfeeding them. Taking them to the vet regularly for check-ups and vaccinations. Keeping up with their dental health by brushing their teeth regularly. If you take good care of your Greyhound German Shepherd mix, then they should have a long and happy life. Greyhound German Shepherd Mix — 4 Little-Known Facts They Love the Outdoors This mixed breed loves to run and play outside, so it is important to have a fenced-in yard or regular access to parks where they can blow off steam. This mixed breed is also known for being protective of their family, so they make good watchdogs. Some Shepherds have even been trained to work with the police or military as service dogs. This mixed breed is also known for being loyal and protective of their family, so they make great companions and watchdogs. If you are looking for a family-friendly dog, then the Shephound may be a good choice for you. However, this mixed breed can be stubborn if not trained properly from an early age, so it is important to start training your dog as soon as possible. If you are consistent and patient when training your Shephound, then it should be easy to train them in most situations. The cost of this mixed breed can be higher if they are being bred for show or working purposes. The cost also varies based on where you are buying them from, as well as the quality of the puppy. Yes, the Shephound is a great breed for families. They are sweet, loyal, and gentle, which makes them perfect for families with children or other pets. However, they can be protective of their family and may not get along well with strangers or new guests in your home. Yes, this mixed breed usually gets along well with other pets. However, some Shepherds can be more territorial than others and may not be as accepting of new pets in your home. It is important to supervise your dog when they are first meeting another pet and watch for any signs of aggression or hostility. Conclusion The Greyhound German Shepherd mix is a loyal and affectionate dog that makes a great companion. This mixed breed loves spending time outdoors and getting plenty of exercise, so they are perfect for families with active lifestyles. If you are looking for a family-friendly dog that is easy to train and good with other pets, then the Shephound may be a great choice for you. However, it is important to train your dog from an early age and to be patient and consistent when training them to get the best results. Have you ever met a Greyhound German Shepherd mix? What is your impression of this breed? I mostly work with Puppy Rescue , Inc.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Knowing how to discipline a German Shepherd for biting and nipping will not only help save your hands and legs from tiny razor-sharp teeth… But teaching your GSD puppy to stop biting can also help you with valuable training skills! How do you discipline a German Shepherd for biting and nipping? Follow these steps to discipline your German Shepherd for biting or nipping you. If they still continue to bite and nip, calmly get up and walk away to let them calm down. You can also get your puppy to stop biting by working on their impulse control. Never use physical punishment, yell at your dog, or cause them to fear you. Instead, use reward-based training to teach your GSD what behavior you want them to do instead. There is also extra information you need to know about disciplining your German Shepherd for biting, such as: Why your puppy bites and nips you How to avoid biting and nipping in the first place And what not to do! You might find it cute that your fuzzy little German Shepherd puppy biting your hand or ankles is cute but… Think again! Imagine your dog all grown up as a nearly 90 to pound athletic powerhouse — full of large, adult-size teeth. Some people incorrectly assume that discipline means punishment. This is your essential guide to learn how to discipline your German Shepherd for biting and nipping. Why is my German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping? Is your sweet puppy biting and nipping you all of a sudden? Read below to find out why. When my adorable German Shepherd puppy came home to me her antics were so much fun! I loved to move the toys to play her favorite games and keep her entertained. But, my hands looked like I had accidentally adopted a baby tiger after our playtimes! There were scratches, puncture wounds, and she could even draw blood! German Shepherd puppies love to play and do so by barking, play growling, and nipping their little brothers and sisters. But now, you and your family are the littermates! Puppies quickly learn that if they bite too hard their littermates stop the play, and the fun ends. This is a valuable life lesson for living with people and families. And even studies show that removing a German Shepherd puppy before they are 8-weeks-old could negatively affect their behavior as adults source. Your new German Shepherd must continue to learn bite inhibition skills when you first bring them home. Is yours? German Shepherds get their razor-sharp baby teeth around 2-weeks-old. The baby teeth have usually all grown in by 6 to 7 weeks of age. So, when your pup comes home, around 8-weeks of age to live with you, all 28 of their baby teeth are ready for nipping and biting. When the adult teeth grow in they can irritate the gums and cause your dog discomfort. This leads to your pup looking for things to chew to help soothe their teething pains. You might find tiny teeth on your carpet or on the ground, but most of the baby teeth are swallowed by your pup. Chewing is a natural way to help the pain go away and is very normal. During these times a frozen Kong filled with a mix of treats helps to cool the inflamed gums and soothe their aches. Keep a few frozen Kongs on hand during the teething stage to offer your German Shepherd puppy to stop them from chewing and biting everything in sight! Your German Shepherd comes from a long line of working dogs that were originally bred to herd sheep. These instincts still remain with your dog to this day. German Shepherds bite and nip your ankles due to this natural herding ability and powerful prey drive. This need to herd is in their genes and, unfortunately, your ankles will have to do when there are no sheep to round up! Absence or Lack of Mental Stimulation A bored, mentally understimulated German Shepherd might act out and need brain games. German Shepherds, even puppies, are highly intelligent dogs with a never-ending supply of stamina. Mental stimulation exhausts their minds and bodies! A pup that lacks proper mental stimulation finds themselves looking for ways to keep their brains busy, which generally means getting into trouble. Too Tired or Lack of Sleep A wild German Shepherd probably needs a long nap to help them become their sweet self again. Did you know that puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours a day source? A German Shepherd puppy who is nipping and biting a lot might just be cranky from lack of sleep, and not willfully acting out. Begin teaching them by using body language, hand signals, voice commands, and showing them the right behaviors you want from them. If they continue aggressively biting you, place them in a short time out. Always use positive training and avoid harsh punishment and corrections. You can practice these techniques by following the steps below for disciplining your German Shepherd for biting. Teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition during play. You can teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition to help deter their nipping! There might come a time when your dog is in fear, pain, or discomfort and they put their mouth on you. If your German Shepherd has learned bite inhibition during their play, then they understand to not bite down hard and avoid injuring your skin. You can play these fun games with your German Shepherd while teaching them to not bite you. Slowly move your hand or leg away from them. Try to relax your hand and body so that your puppy is less interested in holding on with their teeth. Stop all play and interaction for five seconds. Then resume activity, but remember no interaction means no talking, no eye contact, and no petting. Sometimes, those sharp puppy teeth are too painful or break the skin! Show your puppy that biting or nipping ends the play. If your German Shepherd is aggressively biting you, show them that this behavior ends the play. But hard bites that draw blood or break your skin mean no more playtime. How to show your German Shepherd that biting and nipping ends play If your dog hurts you painfully during play, quietly and calmly turn away and stand up. Walk away from your puppy, preferably into another room of the house. Leaving play when your GSD becomes too rough is a way to calm them by withdrawing your attention from their rough behavior. Place them in a short time out for continued biting. Sometimes, a short time-out is required for hard nipping and biting. There will be times when your puppy is acting out so badly you might need to place them in a short time out. Time outs are not meant to be punishment, but a moment of calm. Do NOT let them become worked up or stressed if your separation is too much for them. Give your German Shepherd the right things to chew. Help your German Shepherd stop biting you by giving them something else to chew on. You already know your German Shepherd is biting you, so anticipate the biting behavior and substitute a toy for your hand or ankles. Even better… Keep a few small toys in your pocket to offer them as they race around the house. What toys do German Shepherds like to bite and chew? The key to using this toy is to roll it away from yourself when your puppy is aggressively nipping and biting you. Read this hand-picked content… just for you! Instead of letting your dog chew on whatever they want, find appropriate toys to reduce their boredom and give them a place to put their teeth. Redirect biting ankles and legs by using a food lure. A tasty treat comes in handy when your GSD bites at your legs and ankles. Your legs and feet are also enticing since they move and change directions frequently. When your German Shepherd bites your ankles or feet, calmly take a treat out of your pocket and hold the treat near the side of your leg. This disciplining technique also has the added benefit of teaching your dog the first steps of walking nicely on a leash with you. Train a gentle mouth when taking food from your hand. Teach your dog that only a gentle mouth gets its reward. Training your German Shepherd to take treats or kibble with a gentle mouth is extremely easy. Teaching your GSD puppy what is acceptable pressure with their mouth helps to avoid their sharp teeth from damaging your skin or tearing your clothes accidentally. Training a soft mouth with your German Shepherd When feeding your dog a treat, keep the treat pinches between your fingers slightly. This is so your puppy has to lick or nibble at the treat to get it. Instead, pull your hand back slowly. Now, offer your puppy the treat again. When he switches to just licking or using a soft mouth to nibble the treat out release the treat. Withdraw your hand. Wait a few seconds before offering your hand with the treat again. Practice teaching a gentle mouth at least 3 to 5 times daily in short sessions only about 2 to 3 minutes long. Pay attention to the types of items your German Shepherd prefers to pick up and chew. Is it something hard? Then, replace it with a hard, tough chew toy. Is the item soft? Try replacing the item with a furry toy instead. If you want a rock-solid leave it, then use this guide to train your German Shepherd the leave it command. Enroll them in a training class. A structured training class helps your German Shepherd learn to listen to you. But, think about this… Using an online program helps give you confidence in your skills as a trainer and will help train your little play biter to offer more polite responses in the future. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.
There are a variety of reasons to crate train your dog. Use your crate: [25] X Research source To keep your puppy safe when you cannot watch her. To keep your belongings safe when you cannot watch your puppy. When your puppy is home alone. To give your puppy a place to calm down. When traveling. To keep your puppy away from children or other dogs. To aid in house training and other behavioral training. Never use your crate to punish your dog. And once your dog is no longer a puppy and can be trusted not to destroy the house, do not crate your dog when you are away. Save the crate for special times — i. For the most part, your dog should enter her crate voluntarily. The type of crate you use is up to personal preference, though many find that wire crates are the most durable and comfortable long-term solutions for dogs as well as being used at most kennels where you might board your dog. The most important thing is that you get the right size crate. If it is too small, your dog will not be comfortable. If it is too large, it will provide the den-like space dogs crave. Your dog should be able to stand in the crate without hitting her head, to turn around comfortably, and to lie on their side with their paws stretched out. Also buy a divider if purchasing the crate for your puppy. Your dog should enjoy her crate. It should provide a comfortable place for her to relax, so much so that she should choose to spend time there. Make sure to: [28] X Research source Put the crate in a room where you spend lots of time, so your puppy does not feel abandoned. Keep it a comfortable temperature: out of direct sunlight and far from fireplaces and radiators. Place soft bedding inside. Place chew toys inside to give your dog something to do. Cover your wire crate with a towel or crate cover. This will give it more of the den-like feel your dog craves. If you do it well, crate training will be much easier. Throw some new dog toys in, too. Let your dog explore the crate on her own. Let her go at her own speed. Every hour or so put more treats in the crate when your dog is not looking. Be sure to subtract all these treats from their daily food allowance. Also start feeding your dog in the crate. At first, put the bowl just inside so they only have to poke their head in. After 2 or 3 successful feedings, move it to the middle, then all the way back. Show your dog a treat and toss it in the crate. Move away and wait for her to leave the crate. Always use your cue words. Repeat the whole ritual several times a day until your dog is happily entering the crate to fetch treats. After tossing a treat in once or twice to warm your dog up, use your command word without a treat. If she enters, praise profusely and give a treat or two. Also praise her when she leaves. Repeat this training several times a day for two or three days, until your dog is entering and leaving the crate on command. If your golden puppy struggles with this step, go back to the previous one. Ask your puppy to enter the crate and sit. Slowly close the door. If you have to bang it shut before your dog escapes, then she is not ready for this step. When the door is closed, praise and give treats, then open the door and let her leave. Gradually lengthen the time they must sit in the crate before you let them out. Do sessions of training where they wait ten seconds, then 30, 45, and a minute. When your dog can comfortably stay in the crate for a minute, you will want to start moving away while she is in the crate. In the first session, move only a few feet away before you come back. Move to different areas of the room and keep looking at your dog. Next, try training sessions where you move around the room without paying attention to your puppy. Add moments when you step out of the room briefly and return. Finally, leave the room. At first, stay out for only five minutes. Gradually increase the time you are gone to 30 minutes. Go back to the previous step or reduce the time you are leaving her. Always remove your puppies leash and collar before putting her in the crate, as they are choking hazards. For a puppy, these will need to be shorter trips, as a puppy cannot be expected to go more than 3 hours or so without urinating. She needs to be able to get up and stretch her legs. Vary the time you put your dog in the crate. Sometimes do it ten minutes before you go. Sometimes five. Sometimes right before you head out the door. Praise your dog for entering her crate, then go. Now that your puppy is comfortable in her crate, she can sleep there overnight, but be sure you can hear her. Puppies often need to pee in the middle of the night. We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cozy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden colored retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. Well, besides their beauty, both Golden Retriever puppies and adult doggos typically are very people-oriented dogs who exhibit good behavior, lots of affection and gentle temperaments. Golden Retriever breeders will tell you that these intelligent dogs have lots of energy and usually respond well to training. Here's how it works: When your dog performs a skill or behavior that you like, you give them treats, toys or praise. In time, your dog associates that skill or behavior with good outcomes and becomes more likely to repeat it. There's one catch, though: Positive reinforcement works best when pet parents stay consistent. For example, every time they ask a dog to sit or shake —and it is done correctly—a treat or toy should be given. Use a happy tone of voice rather than a stern one, avoid yelling, and exercise patience. Goldens are highly motivated by food and often by play. When you use highly rewarding training treats or dog toys during your dog training sessions, you reward the specific behaviors you are trying to teach your dog and you build an enthusiastic learner. Teach your dog to love learning. In the same vein, make sure your expectations are reasonable for your dog. For example, puppies need shorter training sessions—around three to five minutes each—because their bodies and brains are not well-developed yet and their attention span is shorter. Regarding age-appropriate training for puppies, Dr. George recommends the following: Potty Training: This should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Take your pup out to go potty several times per day and within a few minutes after eating. Socializing: You can begin socialization—aka introducing your puppy to new people, places and experiences—within a week or two of bringing your puppy home. George advises. Obedience Training: Start training your pup around eight weeks of age. Training your dog early will make it easier to take them to visit the vet, go on walks and thrive in other social situations. Even adult dogs who are new to you and your home may not be ready for high-level training because they still are adjusting to the new environment and people in their lives. Feel it out and practice patience. On that note, because Golden Retrievers are often large, strong and energetic dogs, you may want to consider a gentle leader head collar, such as the PetSafe Gentle Leader Dog Head Collar. This gives you additional leverage whenever you are walking your pet in an exciting environment. Clicker training is extremely effective and is used worldwide to train all kinds of species. This method uses a special sound to mark a specific behavior. Speed up the process by including dog training during daily activities. Is it time for dinner? Are you about to take a walk? There are many opportunities to practice commands in everyday situations, so use that to your advantage! Encourage each family member to practice basic skills with the dog, including: Sit. Goldens are often very people-oriented dogs, aside from their beauty and cuteness. When considering adding a Golden Retriever to your pack, it is prudent to conduct research by speaking with golden retriever breeders, rescues, and parents. These are huge, lively dogs that are often unaware of their size. The good news is that golden retriever training is super easy as they are eager to please, especially when it comes to high-value puppy treats. It is important to get the best puppy training treats, whether you're teaching your puppy to lie down, sit, or potty train. Keep things interesting and exciting for your Golden throughout each training session. Instead of a severe tone, use a cheerful one. Avoid screaming and practise patience instead. If your pet ignores your cues, you can re-engage him by being playful and making the process a little simpler. You can also use delicious training treats while training your golden retriever. Make it enjoyable Food and play are powerful motivators for goldens. Positive reinforcement is guaranteed to help with golden retriever training. Age and skill-appropriate golden retriever training We don't expect toddlers to perform algebra, so make sure your expectations for your dog are reasonable. Puppies, for example, require shorter training sessions—around minutes each—due to their underdeveloped bodies and brains. Adult dogs who are new to you and your house may not be ready for advanced training because they are still adjusting to their new surroundings and humans. Keep It Secure A well-fit dog collar, such as the Frisco solid martingale dog collar, is one of the best tools for Golden Retriever training. For everyday walking and training, you'll also need a foot flat training leash. Because Golden Retrievers may be huge, strong, and energetic dogs, you might want to consider using a gentle leader headcollar, such as the PetSafe Premier gentle leader rapid-release dog headcollar, to provide you with more control when walking your dog in a stimulating area. Make Golden Retriever Training Easy to Understand When your dog does it right, using the clicker training approach can help you provide very clear feedback. Clicker training is incredibly effective and is used to train different kinds of animals all over the world! A distinctive sound is used to signify a certain behavior in this procedure. Your dog will realize he has earned a reward if you use a dog clicker, such as the Downtown Pet Supply training dog clicker. It doesn't take long for a dog to grasp the concept and then repeat it. Include training in your daily routine We can't perfect skills without frequent practice, and your canine companion is no exception. Start with something basic, like potty training your golden retriever puppy. Is it dinner time yet? Then, before you set the bowl in front of your dog, practice "sit. Just before you pick up the leash, call your dog's name or whatever cue the dog might notice. After your dog's stroll, practice "down" and "stay" when he is more likely to respond to your command. Take advantage of the numerous opportunities to practice commands in everyday circumstances. Make training your golden retriever a family project Make sure your Golden Retriever gets along well with everyone in the family, including other pets. Encourage each family member to work with the dog on fundamental commands such as sit, down, off people, counters, furniture , stay, come, and "all done" to end sessions. Encourage everyone to make default behavior a priority for training your golden retriever. When supervision isn't possible, you can assist other pets to feel comfortable around your golden by using equipment a dog leash, crates, or baby gates to separate them as needed. Maintain Consistency Some "home rules" for your dog must be agreed upon by all family members. While little variances in how people interact with pets are acceptable, the dog will learn and keep his manners best if the rules are followed consistently. Parents may prefer to start with the fundamentals of training their golden retriever. After that, you can assist your children in teaching the dog how to ask for them as well. Train your dog in stages You can increase your training requirements as your Golden Retriever masters fundamental manners and rules. When your dog understands that he must sit and lie down at specific times, you can ask him to stay in that posture until he is freed. Commit for the rest of your life Even if your dog is a beloved family member with excellent manners, there are always new things to learn. Training your golden retriever stimulates the brain, allowing you to better utilize your golden's high activity level. It also deepens the human-animal link, benefiting the whole family. Learn about new sports and activities, including nose work, agility, rallying, and therapeutic visits. Summary These suggestions can assist your new Golden Retriever in understanding the training. Whether you start with an 8-week-old puppy, an adolescent rescue, or a senior dog, these tips will result in success. It also allows you to assist him in burning energy, providing excitement, and developing a deep bond with your dog. Share this on:.
Having a German Shepherd as a dog can make you anxious daily, not knowing what it is doing in your absence. Can German Shepherds be Left Alone? Check out our article Do German Shepherds get along with cats? According to research, the maximum number of hours to leave your grown German Shepherd is 4 hours. If your German shepherd is still a puppy, leaving it alone for more than one hour is not advisable. Young German Shepherds are very energetic and ponce around. They can sleep for as many as 19 — 20 hours a day, but when they are awake, they become very active. The older German Shepherds require attention for the sake of their bladder or if they are sick. Can you leave a German Shepherd alone for 8 hours? German Shepherds can be left alone or even in the company of other dogs. Still, it is not advisable to be left alone because of their separation anxiety and curiosity. The most your German Shepherd can and should be left alone is 4 hours. German Shepherds suffer from separation anxiety and distress when left for too long and find ways to either get to their owner or destroy the home. To begin leaving your German shepherd puppy alone, you must put them in an environment that makes you confident of their safety. It must be an environment that does not incur extra costs to replace things. There are a few tips to help you keep your mind at rest when at work. A pet cam is an amazing option for dogs like German Shepherds because of their separation anxiety. Using the pet cam provides an opportunity for your German Shepherd to see you and hear your voice even while at work. Just make sure the food provided is more than enough. If your dog has the freedom of movement in the home, you want to make sure things are in order when it comes to feeding your dog in your absence. Activity German Shepherds hate boredom and would go to any length to be entertained. They desire a lot of activity to satisfy their curiosity and restless personality. Make sure there are things to keep it busy , or else it can create sources of entertainment for itself. There are several ways a German Shepherd can be kept busy. Television and music can be left on in the house to keep it engaged Make available enough toys for it to chew on and play with Make requests from friends and neighbors to check on it and play with it Employ a dog walker to keep it active and engaged 4. Train your dog to go to the bathroom You do not want your dog messing up the whole house with pee and feces. Let your dog pick a particular spot for this, and you can train it to use a potty. Get a pee pad to signify these areas or get synthetic grass to mark them. Having a potty trained dog is important. It is easier with German Shepherds due to their intelligence. Taking your dog out for a stroll is always important. Helping your dog exhaust energy helps it through staying the day. Exercises depend on the health condition and the type of weather conditions available. Jan 19, Your German shepherd would tell you that they should never be left home alone. In their perfect world, you would be home with them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, days a year. There will be times when you have to disappoint your shepherd and leave the house to do things like go buy more dog food and toys. There is no avoiding that there will be times when your dog will have to be left alone. In those times, how long can a German shepherd be left alone? How long dogs can be safely left alone depends on several things. Their age, health, and behavior all play a huge role in how long they can be left on their own. Many experts will tell you that a dog should never be left alone for more than 4 hours. Yet, plenty of people regularly leave their dogs alone for longer than 4 hours, right? How long you decide your dog is safe to be home alone will depend on how comfortable you are leaving them and their age and overall health status. Plus, there are other things to consider when leaving your pet. Things like, do they need more frequent potty breaks, do they get anxious when left alone, are they used to being alone, what is your living situation like, and more, all need to be taken into account. But there are some rules of thumb that can guide you in your decision on how long they are okay to be alone. So, a 3-month-old puppy should not be expected to hold it for more than hours, depending on when they last ate and drank. Even the best-trained puppies will have accidents in their crate, through no fault of their own, when they are left alone longer than that. After puppyhood, a healthy dog should be able to manage on their own without a potty break for 4 hours. It helps to schedule mealtimes around this schedule if they will be indoors. Most dogs do fine alone for this amount of time. Senior dogs, however, may begin to need more bathroom breaks before 4 hours. Often, they are not as comfortable as they once were while home alone. They may require more consideration than they once did. Senior dogs can also get anxious more easily, especially when they have vision and hearing loss and have more physical ailments. Health of the Dog Although healthy dogs can easily manage for 4 hours alone, this may not be true when they are sick or hurt. Pain and disability can also give the most stoic dog anxiety when they are alone. Their need for medications, etc. Dogs that tear up the house, get into the trash, or chew the furniture are obviously not candidates to be home alone, with free roam of the house. Dogs that can be left alone know the difference between chewing on their toys and tossing your couch. If you plan on leaving any shepherd alone, they will still need plenty of daily exercise, training, and interaction to be happy and easy to live with. Separation anxiety can also affect German shepherds. Anxiety can also cause them to become destructive and even engage in behaviors that can cause them harm. If you have a shepherd with anxiety or other behavior problems, you may need to get professional help before leaving them alone. A dog door that opens into an escape proof dog run or high fenced yard is ideal. Who do you trust that is available to check in on your dog? Give them a call and make prearrangements, in case you ever need help. This of course is not the answer for everyone but if your pup enjoys the company of other dogs, they may appreciate sharing their day with one. Just be sure to find a reputable one that has cameras so you can keep an eye on how your dog is really doing. We hope you get to spend plenty of time with your wonderful German shepherd. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. German Shepherds should not be left alone for more than 8 hours a day. They are easily bored so if they are left alone for that long, they may start engaging in destructive or problematic behavior such as digging, chewing and barking. Do I need to exercise my German Shepherd? Yes, at the minimum, the dog should be exercised for at least 45 minutes, twice a day. Do German Shepherds shed? Yes, they have a heavy undercoat that requires regular brushing, at least once a week, more often if the dog is blowing its coat. If you are concerned about dog hair on the furniture and on your clothes then you should consider adopting a different breed that sheds less. Are German Shepherds good with children? Most German Shepherds are excellent with children. Much of it depends on the temperament of the children and the temperament of the dog. In general, German Shepherds are great family dogs. Are German Shepherds good with cats? It depends on the cat and its temperament and behavior. Do German Shepherds need to be crate trained? It is a good idea to crate train when the dog first arrives in your home. For puppies, it is easier to house train them using a crate. In addition, keeping a new puppy or even an adult dog in the crate when you cannot provide supervision, will keep them from chewing on items that should not be chewed on. When you crate train, the dog learns that the crate is their own safe place to go. The crate simulates a den-like environment which is comforting for the dog. Another advantage of crate training is when you take the dog to a boarding facility or to the vet, the dog is less likely to be stressed because they are already used to staying in a kennel or crate. The crate should never be used as a punishment. Should I go to a breeder to get a German Shepherd? It is a personal choice and a decision you would make based on what you feel is best for your situation. That being said, we strongly advocate adopting from a shelter or a rescue. There are so many wonderful German Shepherds that end up at the shelters through no fault of their own. Many of the dogs we rescue from shelters are purebred so we encourage you to meet our available dogs and see if you find one that steals your heart. However, this should be a gradual build-up. That being said, the limit should never exceed four hours daily. German Shepherds do not respond well to being left alone for long periods. They are high-energy dogs that thrive on companionship and affection. Dogs are, after all, derived from wolves who are pack animals. They see you as their pack and need to be part of the family. Even though they will choose one master, a German Shepherd will bond with each family member differently. So, how long can German Shepherds be left alone, legally? Legally, no law specifies exactly how long German Shepherds, and all dog breeds, can be left alone. The Animal Welfare Act is a federal law that regulates the treatment of animals, but this only applies to dogs bred for commercial sale and those being transported or imported. Various animal neglect and cruelty laws vary by state, but the general rule in North America is that you should not leave dogs alone for more than four hours at a time. Factors to consider when deciding how long to leave your dog, in addition to age, are training, breed, housing and lifestyle conditions, and whether they have any previous experience of being left alone. My German Shepherd Willow all alone enjoying a snooze! There are similar guidelines in the UK where veterinary experts also recommend four hours as the maximum period for all dogs to be left alone. German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia which may cause them pain or discomfort. Ensure they have an orthopedic bed, such as the Big Barker , that is clinically proven to reduce joint pain and stiffness. This bed is a real bed made for big dogs, is suitable for any age of large breed, and can help prevent arthritis, joint pain, and other mobility issues. German Shepherds are also prone to sensitive stomachs and digestive issues, and older dogs, like humans, need to pee more. How to Leave a Dog Alone Make sure you stay confident and show consistency and patience when you first leave your German Shepherd puppy home alone. Once you have made sure the area where you are leaving them is safe from any hazards, here are some important points to follow: Start off slowly, a few minutes here and there, and build up. Exercise the dog first to get them tired. Mental stimulation is just as important. Allow them to take their potty break. Use a crate or put up dog gates to confine them. Allow them access to clean fresh water. Leave interactive or chew toys for them. Play calming music if they are prone to separation anxiety. Another option is to hire a trusted dog walker to visit your home and take your dog out for a long walk or two. Walk your dog before and after you go to work. Even a short minute walk before you leave the house is enough to expend a little bit of energy whilst maintaining your close bond with them. As soon as you get home, take your German Shepherd for a long walk or, even better, some off-leash running, and play some games such as fetch. Some people have an hour of free time during the workday. You can go home and play fetch to prevent your German Shepherd from feeling lonely and provide some fun exercise for them. Flexible working is also a great solution, especially if you can start early, avoiding rush-hour traffic and being home quicker in the afternoon. Another possible solution is to work at home. Not only that, but it will save you money from having to hire a dog sitter or paying a friend every day. Get a dog camera for peace of mind. You can talk to them and even shoot out treats all from your phone! They offer a perfect solution to interact with your German Shepherd without being there. Check out the options below to see which is best for you and your dog: Give them enough toys to play with. One or two toys might not be sufficient, especially if your dog is easily distracted or gets bored quickly. Try to leave four or five of their favorite toys in their crate or wherever you leave your dog during the day. Ask visitors to stop by to play with your dog. Even if someone can come over for 15 minutes, it may be enough to keep your dog happy and entertained. It would be better if they could take your dog on a long walk, but a quick game of fetch will be more than enough to burn off some energy and curb their loneliness. When you leave them again, they will be tired and will no doubt go back to sleep. Getting another dog might seem extreme, but a buddy might be exactly what your German Shepherd needs to feel more comfortable and less stressed. In general, dogs of opposite sex pairings get along better than dogs of the same sex. Getting a second dog is a massive commitment you must consider thoroughly. Consider leaving your dog in the hands of a doggie daycare center near your home. Remember to introduce them to the daycare group as young as possible; they will quickly get used to being left and easily settle. If they are left for extended periods, they can develop various emotional and physical health issues. This is one of the sad reasons why they are often abandoned, re-homed, or even worse, euthanized. German Shepherds are very social dogs and need a job to do, even if that just means interacting with you. Regular activity and exercise are essential for this energetic, loyal, and protective breed. If you leave your dog alone for longer than four hours per day, it will most definitely cause poor results. After all, there are reasons for the recommended guidelines! The best way to find out is to start with trial periods and increase in small increments. You can also invest in a dog camera, as mentioned above, where you can watch and interact with your dog, all from your smartphone. Here are a few things to be aware of if you regularly leave your German Shepherd alone for more than four hours: Separation anxiety. Symptoms could include an increased heart rate, shortness of breath, excessive drooling, pacing, and uncontrollable barking, whining, or howling. Check out this recent study from the University of Lincoln, in the UK which states that separation related problems in dogs should be seen as a symptom of underlying frustrations rather than a diagnosis. They may also display destructive behavior. Digging, urinating, or even worse, eliminating can occur. You will need to address these extra signs of separation anxiety or distress. If your GSD has unfortunately developed a problem with excessive chewing , here are 8 steps on how to stop it. They could become extremely restless during the evening. It might not sound like a big problem, but restlessness causes your German Shepherd to have difficulty sleeping. They will often have random bursts of energy throughout the day and night, ruining their sleep cycle and yours in the process! As you can see, all sorts of negative outcomes result from not properly caring for your German Shepherd and failing to keep him happy and entertained. Long-term neglect can also lead to these other physical and mental health problems: Blood pressure and heart disease caused by stress. Gastrointestinal problems. Bladder infections due to the dog being unable to relieve themselves for hours on end. You must never punish your German Shepherd for showing distressing signs of separation anxiety. Your dog is not doing these things out of disobedience or spite but because he is trying to cope with being extremely stressed. Check out my article for more info on German Shepherd Separation Anxiety. If you have the option of leaving your dog outside when you go to work, it can provide them with tons of space to run around and get some exercise. Some dogs bark at people walking by, especially German Shepherds who are very protective dogs. Make sure to properly train your GSD, so this is not an issue or prevent him from accessing those areas of the house. This is especially important in places with bears, mountain lions, and other predators. Unfortunately, your yard will pay the price and will soon appear like a moon crater! Cons of Inside If your German Shepherd puppy is impatient and super inquisitive, he might start chewing on furniture, the carpet, or other items. Make sure you leave him enough chew toys to play with, but it will be inevitable sometimes. Leaving your German Shepherd alone is not a good idea if you live in an apartment. Although GSDs can live in apartments they need to be exercised frequently throughout the day. As large energetic dogs need an appropriate amount of space to feel comfortable. They could excessively bark or howl if they become distressed or separation anxiety sets in. This could not only lead to noise complaints but can have serious health implications for your dog. Training them to behave indoors and outdoors is also beneficial as this helps to keep them socialized and ready to be friendly when you introduce them to other people or dogs. A bark now and then from your backyard is actually a good thing. Unless your German Shepherd is constantly barking up a storm, one or two here and there will be perfect for warding off strangers or intruders. You can invest in a dog agility course so that your German Shepherd can sprint up and down and enjoy himself without messing up your garden! They come in all shapes and sizes. A small yard will not be good enough. Neglect is just one word to describe leaving your dog outside alone for longer than four hours. Remember, not all German Shepherds are the same, which means that even four hours might be too long. You and I now know that German Shepherds may become anxious or restless if left outside for too long and start to chew on tree roots, destroy flowers or plants and engage in other destructive behavior. This will inevitably cost you time and money to replace. Before you make any decisions, remember that your German Shepherd will need an adequate amount of room. Here are a few suggestions to contain your dog inside: Leave them in a dog crate. This large size will be enough for them to move around and stretch out comfortably. Plus, they need a good crate pad to protect their joints, such as an orthopedic one. Check out my favorite crates here. My GSD loved her crate and often went to her special place to rest or chew her favorite toys. Gate off an area inside your house. You can use dog gates to fence off an area to keep them contained. Dog gates allow you to section off various off-limit areas of the house, leaving you to decide how much space your puppy can have to roam around. Consider letting them roam free throughout the house. Most owners of indoor German Shepherds eventually try this route. It provides them with enough space, and they are already familiarized with their surroundings — my GSD Willow was two years old before she was allowed to roam freely around the house. German Shepherds are social animals and can experience separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods of time. German Shepherds are known to be loyal and social dogs that can become very attached to their owners. When left alone for extended periods of time, they can experience anxiety, stress, and even depression. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are wonderful dogs to own. They do require lots of attention since they are so loyal and protective. Give them enough food and water before you leave and plenty of exercise. You can leave your German Shepherd with toys, music, or the TV to keep them entertained. If you leave your GSD alone for too long, they could suffer from separation anxiety and distress. German Shepherds form a strong bond with their owners, so you should only adopt one if you know you can be there for them. Related Posts You May Like:. Unfortunately, many people are gone for way too long, and their energetic dog breeds start getting into trouble from lack of mental stimulation. So, how long can German Shepherds be left by themselves? For puppies, this time period gets even smaller. The younger the dog, the less time you should leave them alone. They sleep a lot throughout the day, but their time awake is spent playing and exploring the house. Adolescent German Shepherds Adolescent dogs are anywhere between 6 and 18 months old. Their bladders are more developed, and they are a little more mature. Currently, it is usually okay to leave them on their own for a few hours. Still, you should limit that time because they are still full of energy. However, German Shepherds are social animals, and they love the company of their families. Despite being able to hold their bladder at this age, they are more likely to act out and howl, trying to get you to come home. This disturbs neighbors, and their lack of entertainment could cause some destruction around the house. Senior German Shepherds Senior dogs are usually older than 8 years old and need to be checked on, like adolescent dogs. German Shepherds are highly prone to hip and elbow dysplasia which is painful and could get them in dangerous situations. Older dogs also have sensitive stomachs and digestive issues. Try not to leave them alone for more than 2 or 3 hours. There are some solutions that you should seriously consider if you want to keep accidents to a minimum. Hire a Sitter Image Credit: Sam Wordley, Shutterstock Dog sitters or dog walkers are excellent solutions that many owners turn to when they spend their days at work. This breaks up the monotony of the day for dogs and ensures that you maintain a close bond with them. Even ten minutes of fetch can keep them feeling entertained. German Shepherds are especially loyal and all they want is to spend as much time by your side as possible. These cameras are set up around the house. How to Leave a Dog at Home Dogs do well with a consistent schedule and throwing it out of balance could give them expectations that only let them down in the future. If you must leave your German Shepherd at home alone, start by ensuring there is nothing dangerous for them to get into. Set out a lot of toys for physical and mental stimulation. Some dogs may have to be put in a crate or confined to an area with dog gates. Dogs are pack animals, and they often benefit from having a playmate. Pay attention to German Shepherd ear positions. These dogs have a way of communicating with us through their body language. Similarly, German Shepherd tail positions can tell you a lot as well. This is why so many innocent dogs are abandoned or re-homed. German Shepherds are extremely social dogs and they need as much interaction as they can get. Without it, there are some serious problems that could arise. Separation Anxiety Dogs are capable of both separation anxiety and depression. This is a significant concern for breeds like German Shepherds. Symptoms of anxiety are shortness of breath, drooling, pacing, howling, barking, whining, and increased heart rate. This could mean that they chew on your furniture, eat your shoes, or tear through your carpet. Some dogs get so bored that they have even been known to chew through drywall to try and escape. Restlessness After being forced to lay around all day, a lot of German Shepherds get extremely restless at night and keep their owners up. This ruins their sleep cycle and gives them random bursts of energy that also ruins yours in the process. Final Thoughts If you spend 8 hours a day at work without the ability to come home or have someone spend time with your dogs, then you might be better off not having a dog. Before bringing any breed home, do your research and make sure that you live a life that suits both of you and is going to give them an interactive and stable environment that keeps them both physically and mentally healthy. If you are thinking about getting a GSD you may be wondering, can German Shepherds be left alone, and for how long? This article will dive into those questions and give you helpful tips for leaving your German Shepherd alone. Yes, German Shepherds can be left alone! However, the time a GSD can be left alone will depend on their age. Generally, if your German Shepherd is a puppy, they can be left alone for one hour per every month of age. Here are some things you should do before leaving your dog alone: Tire your dog out That saying a tired dog is a happy dog is very true when it comes to German Shepherds. Also, a tired dog is one that is less likely to get into trouble. Establishing a routine where you talk your dog on a walk , play fetch , go to the dog park, or some other form of exercise before you leave the house makes a big difference. After a fun activity, your dog will likely relax and nap so they will be less concerned with you leaving. Just make sure the activity is something that makes your dog exhausted, so if you know your dog still has a lot of energy after walks, you want to find an activity that tires them out more before you leave the house. Get your GSD used to spending time alone early If you get your dog as a puppy, make sure to get them used to being alone immediately. German Shepherds that become overly clingy and used to their humans being around are more prone to separation anxiety. The best way to do this is to start off leaving even young puppies sometimes for very short amounts of time. Crate training is also key for a potty-training German Shepherd because you want them to be safe and not have accidents for the short time you are away. Start by leaving your pup in a safe location and just go into another room for minutes at first. Never come back in the room if your German Shepherd is whining , barking , howling , groaning , or crying because they will learn that doing those things gets you to come back. When your dog is quiet and calm go back. Keep doing this gradually extending the time by 5-minute increments and start going further than just another room maybe go outside and do some yard work for 20 minutes. Be calm about leaving Lastly, never make a big deal about your coming and going. Acting like your leaving is no big deal will help you GSD think the same. Our dogs feed off our energy, so if we get all hyped up and make a big fuss every time we leave the house, our German Shepherds will think our leaving is a bigger deal than they should. Remain calm! Tips For Leaving Your GSD Alone Here are some helpful tips of things to before leaving your German Shepherds alone to make the process smoother: Make sure they are empty before leaving First, and most obviously, take your dog potty immediately before leaving. Also, try and make sure your pup pees and poops before your leave the house, not just one or the other. Leave enough time before having to leave to walk your dog around a little so they can do both if your German Shepherd takes a little longer to do their business. A crate is a great safe place to leave your German Shepherd when out of the house, especially for younger more mischievous pups. The key is to pick a place where your dog is limited in what they can stick their noses into, at a nice temperature, and provide someplace comfortable for them to lay like a good dog bed. Giving them a homey spot to call their own will make them want to go there and be more comfortable while they are alone. This is especially important for puppies but also a factor for adult and senior dogs. If you know your dog can only hold their bladder for 3 hours, you should make sure you can get back in two and a half hours to be on the safe side. If your dog has to struggle to hold themselves every time you leave, they will be more likely to not want to be left alone. Doing so will greatly decrease the time they will be able to hold their bladder while you are gone. For example, a dog that can usually hold themselves for four hours may only be able to hold themselves for three if they drank a lot of water while you were out. Leave them with a stuffed Kong to keep them occupied A stuffed Kong is a great tool every GSD parent should have in their bag of tricks. Giving your German Shepherd with a tasty treat helps them to really not care about your leaving. When my girl was a puppy I would stuff a Kong with peanut butter, plain yogurt, or some other Kong filler and she would happily lick away without even noticing my departure. This also contributes to tiring your dog out, because not only will they be exhausted from the activity you did, they will also be tired from trying to get all the yumminess out of the treat. Consider a dog walker or pet sitter Sometimes things come up where we have to leave our dogs for a longer time period, whether it is for work, or some other appointment. These options will allow you to leave your dog longer without having to rush home for a potty break. As a general rule, German Shepherds can be left alone for one hour for every month of age up to about nine months old. So, a three-month-old puppy can be left alone for three hours. Whereas a nine-month-old puppy can be left alone for a full 8-hour workday. It is important to remember that these are basic guidelines, some dogs maybe can stay home for slightly more or less time depending on how well they can hold themselves. You want to make sure your dog has enough mental stimulation , physical stimulation, and attention and affection on a daily basis. Final Thoughts German Shepherds can definitely be left alone, but the time that each individual GSD can be left alone will vary. Some of these factors include their age, health conditions, and how long they can hold themselves. Although German Shepherds will become capable of holding themselves for an eight-hour day around nine months of age, you should strive to make sure they are getting enough attention, exercise, and engagement from you when you are home to keep your GSD happy and healthy. Home safety Age German Shepherd puppies, like all puppies, have limited bladder capacity. At this time, a properly trained and socialized German Shepherd will be able to safely tolerate periods of up to four to six hours of alone time. In order to stop your GSD from developing separation anxiety, It will be up to you as the owner to put systems in place. This may not be the case if you rescue a German Shepherd as an adult. Prior history, therefore, trumps age as the determining factor in how long your dog can be safely left alone. In their company, it may be possible to leave your dog alone for longer periods of time. While nothing can replace your presence, other friendly animals can be a nice stand-in when you must be away for extended amounts of time. Examples would include: Your German Shepherd is new to the family. Home safety Finally, you need to consider whether your home is safe for your German Shepherd. GSDs are extraordinarily strong! Anxious GSDs are known to have pulled down curtains, torn apart couches, ripped off crown molding, and even dug under fencing to escape. Not only is this super stressful and potentially dangerous for your dog — but the repairs can end up being quite expensive as well! Hopefully this little checklist can help you evaluate how long your German Shepherd can be safely left alone. As previously mentioned, the German Shepherd dog breed is one of the more sensitive breeds. This also means that GSDs are more prone to separation anxiety. This is a condition where they become so anxious about being left alone that they act out in destructive and aggressive ways. The bad news: your German Shepherd may develop this condition even if you do your best to create a welcoming and comfortable home environment. This video shows how easy it can be to help a GSD with separation anxiety feel calmer. Like their wild wolf cousins, dogs naturally seek out smaller, enclosed spaces to hide, rest, whelp, and care for the young. A research study showed that wild dogs also exhibit denning behavior. They prefer to den near people, but the point is that they do den just like wolves. A frequently mentioned tip is to tire them out before the fireworks are scheduled to begin. As Forbes explains, this strategy treats fireworks like a noise phobia. Any type of phobia takes energy. This same principle can work well with separation anxiety, or a separation phobia. Unable to take your GSD for a long walk to tire them out? Try hiring a local dog walker or pet sitter to do this for you! As an added bonus, this allows your dog to develop another relationship. This can help ease any issues associated with being overly attached to you. If your budget allows for it, another great option is doggie daycare. This can be a great way to socialize a high energy GSD puppy. Daycare services can provide detailed notes to owners on a daily basis. Some even provide live video feeds so that owners can check in throughout the day. German Shepherds need significant amounts of daily physical activity. They were developed to work tirelessly for long hours herding and guarding livestock and, later, people as well. It can be playing with a sensory ball that emits lights or sounds. You can even record yourself saying common commands with these toys! Another creative idea to try playing music made specifically to appeal to dogs. For some dogs, this is very calming. Dog puzzles also exist and have different levels of difficulty. These puzzles allow you to change how and how often the treats are dispensed once your dog masters the basics. A variety of these toys exist today. A lot of these toys allow for things like scheduling times to dispense treats, voice recordings, speaking to your dog live, video conferences with your GSD, and more. Many offer live video feeds of your dog at home so you can check in to see how your GSD is doing during the day. What toys and treats does your dog love most? What has worked well for you to keep your German Shepherd active and occupied while you have to be out of the house?
Alert and protective to varying degrees Excellent sense of smell and tracking abilities A natural love for water and swimming Compatibility with families, children, and other pets Red Labradors are known for their excellent compatibility with families. They are generally patient and gentle with children, making them great family pets. Red Labs often form strong bonds with their human family members and enjoy being part of activities and adventures. With proper socialization, Red Labradors can get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. Their friendly nature and adaptability contribute to their compatibility with different household dynamics. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners. Their desire to work and their natural retrieving instincts contribute to their trainability. Recommended training methods and techniques Positive reinforcement training methods work best for Red Labradors. Reward-based training using treats, praise, and playtime motivates them. Consistency, patience, and clear communication are key in their training. Obedience training, basic commands, and socialization are important for a well-behaved Red Labrador. Exercise needs and activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated Red Labradors have high energy levels and require regular exercise. Daily exercise sessions of around 1 to 2 hours are recommended. Activities such as brisk walks, jogging, hiking, or playing with a flirt pole are great for physical exercise. Mental stimulation is essential for Red Labs to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Engaging puzzle toys , interactive games, and training sessions provide mental stimulation. Retrieving activities, swimming, and participating in dog sports like agility or obedience can fulfill their need for both physical and mental exercise. While not exclusive to the red coat color, these are some common health concerns that can affect Red Labradors: Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA and other eye conditions Obesity and related health problems Ear infections due to their floppy ears Tips for maintaining the health of Red Labradors Regular veterinary check-ups: Schedule routine visits to the veterinarian for vaccinations, preventive care, and early detection of any health issues. Balanced diet: Provide a nutritious and well-balanced diet suitable for Red Labradors' specific needs. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity. Regular exercise: Engage Red Labradors in daily physical activities to maintain their weight, muscle tone, and overall well-being. Grooming requirements and coat care Red Labradors have a short to medium-length coat that is relatively low-maintenance. Brush and groom their coat at least once a week to remove loose hair and keep it clean and healthy. Bathe them as needed, typically every 2 to 3 months or when they become dirty or smelly. Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Maintain good dental hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth and providing dental chews or treats. Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections. Use veterinarian-recommended ear cleaners. Keep their eyes clean and monitor for any signs of irritation or discharge. Red Labradors as Working Dogs Red Labradors, like their Labrador Retriever counterparts, are known for their exceptional working abilities and have a long history of serving as versatile working dogs. They excel in various roles and tasks, showcasing their intelligence, trainability, and natural instincts. Hunting: Red Labradors are highly regarded as skilled retrievers. Their strong retrieving drive, combined with their love for the water, makes them excellent companions for hunters and professional sportsmen. They have an innate ability to locate and retrieve games from land or water, making them indispensable for waterfowl hunting and retrieving game during hunting expeditions. Rescue dogs: In addition to hunting, Red Labradors thrive in various working roles. They are often trained and utilized as search and rescue dogs due to their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities. These remarkable dogs can locate missing persons, provide assistance during disasters, and aid in wilderness searches. Service dogs: Red Labradors also excel as service dogs, providing assistance and support to individuals with disabilities. Their intelligence, trainability, and gentle nature make them well-suited for tasks such as guiding individuals with visual impairments, alerting for medical conditions, and providing emotional support. Therapy works: Furthermore, Red Labradors have made their mark in the field of canine therapy. Their friendly and patient demeanor, coupled with their ability to establish strong bonds with humans, allows them to provide comfort, companionship, and therapeutic benefits to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. These are just a few examples of the tasks and jobs in which Red Labradors excel. Their versatility and willingness to work make them well-suited for a wide range of working roles, and their natural abilities combined with proper training allow them to fulfill their duties effectively. Red Labradors as Family Pets If you're considering adding a furry friend to your family, Red Labradors can be an excellent choice. These lovable and affectionate dogs are well-suited for family life and bring joy and companionship to their human pack. Red Labradors have a friendly and outgoing nature, making them a great fit for families of all sizes. They thrive on human companionship and love being part of family activities. Whether it's going for walks, playing in the backyard, or simply snuggling on the couch, Red Labs are eager to be involved in your family's daily routines. Interaction with children and other pets One of the remarkable traits of Red Labradors is their gentle and patient demeanor, which makes them well-suited for households with children. They often form strong bonds with kids and have a natural affinity for them. Red Labs are known to be tolerant, playful, and protective of children, making them ideal playmates and companions. With proper supervision and socialization, Red Labradors can be excellent family dogs, providing endless fun and love to children of all ages. When it comes to other pets, Red Labradors generally have good compatibility. With proper introductions and socialization, they can get along well with other dogs, cats, and small animals in the household. Their friendly nature and adaptability allow them to adjust and form positive relationships with furry siblings. 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The Lab was a working dog used during hunting pursuits and the hunting fraternity heavily favored the Black Labrador over all other colors. And so red labs were relatively uncommon. But in a reversal of the trend today, in the early days of the breed the more common shades of yellow that existed were dark yellow to fox red. The lighter shades of yellow and cream that we think of as normal today, were actually quite rare. In fact, the first ever registered yellow was a dark golden color. However, through the mid to late s, lighter shades of yellow and cream became more fashionable and breeders sought to selectively breed for these colors. This is mostly my opinion and not concrete fact, but the two theories I have on why the lighter colors of Yellow Labradors became more common are: Firstly, during the early years of the breed the darker yellows and reds were more common. So when a pale cream or very light yellow was born, it seemed more exotic, rarer and hence more desirable. So breeders started to selectively breed for these colors and hence less and less reds were born. Secondly, since the middle s, a famous brand of British toilet paper, Andrex has used a pale Yellow Labrador in their television adverts. Their adverts went on to be shown in over countries for over 35 years. Most colors centered on a cream to light golden color. The dark yellows and reds fell out of fashion. But in the last 10 or 15 years, the range of available shades in the Yellow Labrador have once again widened. They stood out among the crowd and so they were more desired. This caused breeders to try to match the demand and selectively breed for lighter colors. Due to a lack of popularity of the dark red coat colors, it all but disappeared. But this new-found rarity in turn made the darker red Labs more desirable. So now there are many breeders who are selectively breeding to try to obtain litters of reds to meet the demand of people who want the rarer color. Things have turned full circle. Controversy Around The Red And Darker Yellow Shades Being uncommon in comparison to the black, paler yellow and chocolate shades does make some people question the red Labradors pedigree. They question whether in fact they are a pure bred Labrador or not? However, unlike the so-called Silver Labrador Retriever that is surrounded by accusations of outcrossing Labradors with Weimaraners to introduce the diluted coat color to the breed, no such controversy surrounds the darker colors of Yellow and Red Labradors. They are a genuine, pure bred Labrador, with a history going back to the earliest days of the breed. Another controversy is the fact that Fox Red Labrador breeders charge a far higher price than breeders do for the more traditional colors of the breed. They advertise their dogs as being a rare breed and charge a premium. There is some truth in this, but this controversy also follows many other breeds and colors of dogs. Are Breeders of Reds Irresponsible? There is some evidence to support this in a very few small cases, but there are some highly responsible breeders too and I think the good do outnumber the bad. Many people have asked if different colored Labs have different temperaments. Is the Fox Red Lab temperament different from the other Lab colors? In our experience, no a Fox Red lab has the same loving, friendly temperament as black, yellow, and chocolate Labs. Further Reading: For those of you that have a real interest in the Fox Red Labrador and would like some further and much deeper reading, I would suggest you take a read of the following three articles over at penara. From what I have read on their site, they are highly ethical and very responsible. They are certainly very knowledgeable! For a good history of the shade, including pivotal moments and important dogs through history: History of the shade For general information on Fox Red Labradors, including genealogy, temperament, pricing etc, please read: About a fox red Labrador For a good discussion of their struggles and successes in the show ring and field, and also for some stunning photos, please see: Fox Red Labradors Today What Are Your Thoughts? Do you own a Fox Red Labrador and have a story to tell? What do you think of the controversy surrounding the higher prices these dogs command? Or the accusations thrown at some breeders concerning the health of the dogs in their breeding programs? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Are you still yearning for more information about Labrador Retrievers? One of our favorite books is Your Labrador Retriever Puppy. It has tons of information about our favorite breed. 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. Fox red Labrador breeders Labs come in three colors, yellow, chocolate and black. As well as some pale, dilute forms of those colors. The red fox Lab, or fox red Lab, is a dark coated variety of the yellow Labrador Retriever. Breeders are selecting darker red Labrador Retrievers to breed from as they become more popular companions than paler yellow Labs. Sometimes known as the ruby Labrador or fox red Lab, these are smart, energetic dogs are best suited to active owners. Yet at one time, almost all Labradors were black. This was partly due to nature, and partly due to a little human interference. Chocolate and yellow Labs were both harder to breed for and less desirable. Horrifically, yellow or brown puppies were often culled at birth! Yet all three colors of Labrador Retriever, black, chocolate and yellow including the red shade , share the same origins or history. Bred to be hunting companions, with bags of intelligence and a friendly disposition. In recent years, these rarer colors are becoming more popular. Which leads to more people selectively breeding for them. And therefore more dogs being born with these coats. Red Fox English Lab vs American Lab The trend in Labrador coat colors swung to paler and paler colors in the s, and remained that way for decades. Especially among the dog showing community. Fortunately a pool of dark yellow or fox red Labs remained popular in the working sporting dog community. Possibly because a pale yellow dog, being far too easy for wildfowl to spot, is not an ideal hunting companion. American Labs are slimmer built, with less stocky heads and chests. They have a stronger prey drive, are a little less forward and playful. Even today you are unlikely to find a Red Labrador with a show background. Any dog advertised as an English fox red Labrador will probably have a pedigree that is a mix of American and English dogs. It is largely from this pool of working retrievers that we now have the stunning fox red Labrador Retrievers that we see today. And because they are often the American Lab type rather than English Lab type, they are often taller and more athletic in appearance than the paler yellow Labs. And if you live in the USA, you may have to do plenty of detective work to find one at all. You may have more luck looking for an American Lab type, from working lines. They are very intelligent and trainable, with loyal, loving personalities. Although they have the usual Lab friendliness, they can also be a little more nervous and wary of strangers and slightly high strung. Lots of socialization and plenty of attention will keep these dogs happy. Coupled with lots of exercise, and both mental and physical activities to keep them busy. Presumably because breeders are selecting for the popular deeper coat color in order to increase puppy sales. There is a lot of pressure on breeders to produce certain colors. But a responsible breeder should not choose parents purely on the basis of color. Especially when there are not large numbers of fox reds to choose from. You may be tempted to skip this — but give it a go — it might be easier than you think! Think of a Labrador as a basically black dog. Black is the default color. The black coat is caused by a pair of genes called the B genes Your dog inherits one from his mother and one from his father — in a pair — like this: BB B genes come in big or little versions. So a black dog could have a pair that look like this instead: Bb Little b carries the code necessary to make a brown coat instead of a black one. BUT, big B is dominant and switches off little b. So little b only gets a say, if two of them get together like this: bb, and when that happens, you get a chocolate Lab! This is done by two little e genes. They also come in a pair like this: ee And when they get together they have the amazing power to completely block the genes that cause black and brown coats. A lab with two little ee genes cannot have a brown or a black coat and so the coat color now defaults to yellow. Now we are getting closer to our fox red color. E genes can also be big like this: EE or mixed like this: Ee, but when that happens the big E switches off the little e, and takes away its power. Yellow vs Red Fox Lab Coats A red Lab is a variation of yellow, and every red dog has those two essential little e genes that switch off black and brown. But then it starts to get a little bit more complicated. It centers on a pigment called pheomelanin. And it is controlled by two different sets of genes. The A gene controls the production of the red color. And the C gene controls whether or not it is fully expressed or diluted. This is what makes things a little more complicated. In fact, I am still over-simplifying it a bit. Otherwise the B gene will override them. And you are back to black or brown. Fox Red Lab Breeders Your first step when bringing any Labrador into your life should be to make sure that this is the right time for you to do this. The next step is to find a reputable breeder of Labradors. Finding a nice fox red stud dog and making a list of all his recent matings is often a starting point. You are most unlikely to find a good breeder who only breeds fox reds. This is because color is not the top priority for a responsible breeder. And remember, in most yellow litters there will be a range of shades. Puppies may darken as they grow, or they may not. No breeder can guarantee you the final color of your puppy. Make sure that both parents have good hips, elbows and a clear eye test, as well as a PRA clear certificate. Then your pup will have the best chance of growing up healthy. Red Fox Lab Puppy Prices When it first starts to trend, a fashionably colored dog may be more expensive, and this is still happening to some extent with reds. My advice is to be wary of paying an unusually high price for a red lab puppy. It could indicate that you have found an unscrupulous breeder who may be cutting corners on health or other important matters. The reason I say this is because many respectable breeders will look down on selling puppies of different colors for different prices. In fact paying the same price irrespective of color could mean you have a better breeder, and a healthier pup! This shade gets increasingly darker over the first few weeks. By three weeks old they are starting to look much more like the Labrador you know and love. By the time you take them home at 8 weeks old they will have that lovely fox red shade. Not all the puppies in a litter will be the same shade, even if both of their parents are fox red themselves. Just like any other Labrador, it will be important to dedicate their first few weeks in your home to getting them settled. Starting to work on important things like potty training and setting food habits. They really benefit from positive reinforcement training. Using rewards to help encourage them to behave in a way that will help them to fit nicely into your family. Start off with no more than a few minutes of formal exercise a day when they are small puppies. And work up to any big walks or runs very gradually over time so as not to accidentally hurt them. Did you turn up here hoping to learn about red fox Labs, only to find us referring to them as fox red instead? There are no consistencies in the way fox red Lab is spelled. Whether fox red is one word or two. Or whether the fox or the red comes first. Of course, we know fox red is much more special than that. At least it means you can spell it any way you like! I tend to say fox red Labrador, you can say redfox or red fox Labrador if it makes you happy. Ultimately they are all just gorgeous Labradors, with a darker shade to their yellow coat. More about Labrador Types and Colors! Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that there are a few distinct color coat variations. Fox Red Labradors are a rare-colored version of the Labrador Retriever. Despite this, they can be registered as purebred Yellow Labrador Retrievers , as the darker-colored coat is not considered to be a disqualifying factor. Due to their unique and certainly eye-catching color, the Fox Red Labrador continues to grow in popularity. Labrador Retrievers are known for being exceptionally sweet and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. These dogs yearn to be a part of a family, and fit right in when joining one. In fact, Labs are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Well-socialized Fox Red Labradors tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. After all, every person they meet is a potential friend that they can play with. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Despite their energy, Fox Red Labradors can adapt to most settings. As long as this dog breed has a chance to get in daily walks, go outside to run and play, and they get plenty of attention, they are content. They are not overly affected by cold weather, but they have a dense double coat. Fox Red Retrievers are also happiest when in the presence of people and they love to be with their families whenever possible. They also have a lot of energy and get bored easily. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Fox Red Labrador Retrievers can include hereditary myopathy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, heart disease, and cataracts. There is also a condition with a genetic link that can occur in young adult Labradors called exercise-induced collapse EIC. Carriers can be identified by DNA tests. Good breeding practices can reduce the risk of potential health issues and make a big difference in the health of Fox Red Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an EIC DNA test, and an ophthalmologist evaluation at a minimum. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Fox Red Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk of bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Labrador Retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds and are highly trainable. Although they can become stubborn at times, they are eager to please and pick up on training quickly overall. Their energy and intelligence mean they can lose focus in training and get bored easily. However, training that is kept clear, consistent, and focused on positive rewards usually keeps them focused and responding well. Any color variant of the Labrador Retriever is ideal for beginner dog owners. Fox Red Labrador Retrievers have a short, dense double coat that is water-resistant. They shed year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing their coat a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Because their coat tends to protect them from the cold and they are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , your Fox Red Lab may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. If they are an avid swimmer or tend to get into a lot of things, you may need to bathe them more often. It is highly recommended to give them a bath or at least rinse them off thoroughly after going swimming with your dog. Their nails should be trimmed once or twice monthly. This will help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs is essential for preventing the tartar buildup that lends to dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is a good start. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. Like other Labs, Fox Red Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. However, they will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Often, they are just happy to be spending time with you. Labs tend to have an extended puppyhood until they are around years old. They will mellow out a little, but also tend to maintain a puppy-like exuberance even in their senior years. Once they are done growing and your vet has cleared them for more activities, you can try a lot of different things. Labs are athletic and versatile dogs. They are one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures and tend to enjoy a variety of activities. They tend to excel in swimming, running, obstacle courses, and several dog sports. Fully-grown Fox Red Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Fox Red Labs generally live for years on average. Body Odor All dog breeds can give off an unpleasant odor if they are not regularly washed but Fox Red Labs are perhaps the worst of them all. This is because they produce more oil than other breeds to help keep their coats dry quickly. The downside of this is that it causes body odor. The solution is to bathe your dog regularly. They May Be Prejudiced in the Show Ring Because a Fox Red Lab is scientifically a yellow Lab, they are often allowed to be shown in the conformation ring as well as other obedience and performance competitions. However, judges tend to mark them less favorably compared to their traditional and lighter colored Lab counterparts. So, they are never likely to win or even come close to winning. If showing your pooch in any competition is a factor to you, then you should forgo the Fox Red Lab or simply try your hand on the traditional colored Labs. More Vocal One key difference between fox colored Labrador retriever and other Labs is that they tend to be more vocal. Canine experts associate this with their smaller gene pool, positing that a once vocal ancestor could have passed the trait on. In other words, the trait could have been inherited from one family member down the fox red Lab heritage. This means that this is not a fox red Lab trait per se, so your red Labrador may be different. You should also know about the history of this amazing dog, temperament, how much to pay for a new puppy, where to find a fox red lab for sale, their exercise requirements, and any other relevant information that can help you understand or know your new Fido better. In other words, there are no consistencies or requirements of how the name should be spelled. What really matters is the gorgeous coat color of this Lab! We and most other owners of this Labrador use Fox Red Lab frequently because it perfectly matches the coat color. Finally, it is worth mentioning that some people tend to think that these dogs are crosses or mixes of foxes probably because of the name! However, that is not the case. The fox part of the name is just used to denote color. They also served as family and protection dogs. The potential for all the coat colors of the Labrador retrievers that we are familiar with today—black, yellow, chocolate red, etc—have always existed with the breed. However, there was a time when people favored black Labrador retrievers. As a result, other colored Labs were culled, including Fox Red Labs. As years progressed, lighter shades of yellow Labradors became more popular and the fox red or darker shades became less fashionable. However, there is a section of people who still loved the darker and fox red Labradors. These were majorly the working gun community who favored the coat color because it was a bit harder for wildfowl to spot compared to the pale yellow coat. This new-found love among the gun community made fox red Labs more desirable again. So, many breeders began breeding selectively to try to obtain litters of the fox reds to meet the demands of this section of the community. The dazzling fox red Labs we have today are, therefore, believed to have come from this pool of working Labradors. Expect your fox Labrador to be gentle, loyal, friendly, playful, and intelligent. Provided that he is socialized early, well cared for, and exposed to positive experiences, your fox red Labrador retriever will be sweet-natured, pleasant, empathetic, and show little anxiety around everybody, including complete strangers. They are also good with children, other dogs, and pets provided that they are properly trained. Some fox red Labrador retrievers may manifest strong instinctive prey drive and chase other family pets, but proper training during puppyhood can avert the behavior. Finally, although they are outgoing, expect your foxy red Lab to be protective of his family and home. Puppy Colors When they are born, red fox lab puppies tend to appear much darker. A few weeks after birth, they will become much lighter. The coat color then changes over the next few months. In particular, the color will darken a bit. So, how do you tell the final color your adult fox red lab puppy will be? Labs are fully grown when they hit one year and often reach full height by month 9. So, expect their coat colors to remain the same when they are years old. It is a simple case of supply and demand at play here. However, it is worth mentioning that once it becomes easy to sell a breed on the basis of color, all the important things to be considered when breeding like correct bloodlines and health get ignored a lot. The color will drive the demand and breeders will use it as an easy way of making quick bucks. So, be wary of breeders who tend to charge unusually higher price tags for their red fox lab puppies. Probably they are cutting corners on health and other important aspects. If anything, a reputable breeder will look down upon the rush to price puppies differently because of coat colors. Buying a Pet G. And your next move will be to find a good, reputable breeder. As aforementioned, the moment a coat color becomes fashionable, many breeders move fast to take advantage of the situation and even end up using crooked breeding strategies—without real thought on important aspects like bloodlines, health, temperament, and working ability. To find a good breeder, keep the following tips in mind: Stay away from breeders who purport to only breed fox reds. Coat color should never be the top priority for a reputable breeder. No breeder should guarantee you the final color of your fox red Lab puppy because the coat colors tend to change darken as the dogs grow in age. The only surefire way of getting a red fox puppy is by breeding two red fox parents. In case one of the parents of the puppy you plan to purchase is yellow and the other is red, your adult labrador red fox dog is likely to be yellow than red. They often list fox red Labrador puppies for sale, which are either ready for purchase or litters that are expected soon. Another great place to consider getting your new puppy from is rescue centers. Dogs in rescue centers need parents more than ever, so by getting one from a shelter, you will be doing a lot of favor to the dog world and your community. Generally, Labrador Retrievers are recognized by AKC and were first accepted into the organization in .However, fox red Lab is not recognized as a separate color by the organization and many other major kennel clubs around the world. It is considered as a mere variation in shades of the traditional yellow Labrador. For your information, silver and charcoal labs are other colors that are not currently recognized by AKC. Are Fox Red Labs Purebreds? Because the coat color is uncommon, especially when compared to other traditional Lab colors like black, chocolate and paler yellow shades, some canine enthusiasts doubt the purity of fox red Labradors. Some people even claim that these types of Labs are bred unethically to take advantage of the rare coloring. So, are fox red labs purebreds? The short answer is: Yes, these dogs are authentic, purebred Labrador Retrievers with a history that dates back to the earliest days of the breed. If anything, AKC and other major kennel clubs around the globe recognize these dogs as purebreds and only a variation in shades of the traditional yellow Labrador. Are they different? No, all of them are fox red Labs. The variation of the shade is a mere expression of a pigment commonly referred to as Pheomelanin. If you sport a dark fox red labrador, therefore, just know that it is still a fox red Lab but with a darker shade coat color. British vs. Well, most people cite two things: physical appearance and temperament. English fox red labs are relatively shorter, have blocky builds, and tend to have a broader face. In terms of temperament, they are often very calm and docile because they were mostly bred for show rings. On the other hand, the American fox red lab is tall, thin, and has a more narrow face. It is also more energetic, a bit hyper, and more intelligent. The short answer is NO. While some people do mistake Labrador retriever red fox dogs for Vizslas, these breeds are different and unrelated in any way. As aforementioned, a Labrador retriever red fox dog is a purebred Lab, and currently, there is nothing that scientifically connects them with Vizslas. They are only similar in appearance—same coat color, large ears, and facial expression. However, you can easily differentiate them if you know a thing or two about these dogs. For instance, a fox red Labrador retriever tends to be more athletic and a Vizsla is considerably smaller. Related Posts:.
You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot. You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. German Shepherds may also need professional grooming. To hel.What size crate do you need for a German Shepherd? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health i.Are German Shepherds easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to.Show more Are German Shepherds good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. We are currently overwhlemed with requests to rehome dogs. In many cases these dogs are relatively young and due to inadequate training, boundary setting and guidance are reactive towards dogs and people. In some instances, they come with a bite history. It is virtually impossible for us to rehome these dogs. Often if they have the experience, visiting grandchildren for example, may make taking on a dog with these issues very difficult. As a result, these dogs are ending up in kennels at great cost to the rescue, with little chance of ever finding a home willing to give them a chance. All of these dogs have been totally failed by their previous owners. If you take on a dog at any age, it is a commitment for the duration of their life. If the dog displays behaviours that you are not happy with, it is your responsibility as a dog owner to put in the required work. This may be done by reaching out to a qualified behaviourist or trainer and even if you get professional help, you will still need to put in the work in terms of putting what you have learned into practice, and by repetition. Dogs are sentient creatures; they are not disposable. They are not there until you meet a partner, or until you move away, get a new job or your relationship breaks down. They are for life. Along the way this seems to have been forgotten. Dogs are family and deserve the time and commitment you would put into any family member. We can help with a list of approved trainers and give advice to help you work with your dog but sadly are not in a position currently to help rehome these dogs. Do the right thing by your dog, get help and don't expect rescues to pick up the pieces because you have failed your best friend. They would do anything for you, so we think they deserve the same. Tasha Desperately Needs A Home Tasha arrived in the UK in and has been in kennels ever since that's nearly 5 years, unwanted and unloved! When she first arrived she was only a puppy but she was afraid and panicked as she was carried away from the van, went to bite the person carrying her and managed to escape and was running loose for 2 weeks. We do believe that this is the reason as to why she doesn't like people she doesn't know. She was caught and now she knows everyone at the kennels she is a happy contented dog. Tasha will need someone who is prepared to visit the kennels maybe a few times to gain her trust. Once she trusts and is settled shewill be your faithful companion. She loves other dogs so would perhaps be better being rehomed where there is another dog in the home. She will follow other dogs and settles quickly in the presence of a happy relaxed dog. She has no interest in cats, she just wants to be by your side. Please give Tasha the chance of having her forever home, she has waited far too long. If you are interested please complete an adoption form so that a volunteer can contact you. During the past 2 years Swiis have proudly sponsored over 30 dogs in partnership with GSDR, most of these dogs are from overseas and with the dedicated volunteers and partners of GSDR many have found their forever homes. You can view some of the sponsored doggy updates and their progress by clicking here. Having adopted 2 dogs from GSDR ourselves, my wife Jill and I are passionate about helping as many dogs as we can and urge people who are thinking about adding a canine member to their family to consider adopting a rescue dog, there are so many rescue dogs waiting in temporary homes and kennels both home and abroad who need a safe and loving forever home. German Shepherds are the most loving of dogs, they try very hard to please and are extremely loyal and great family companions, you just need to give them direction and an abundance of love. Whether you decide to provide a temporary home or adopt, the GSDR team will help you at every stage of your journey, with invaluable support and guidance. Swiis Foster Care are pleased to continue to work in partnership with the GSDR and offer financial support to those dogs who are in urgent need. One of the dogs we are currently supporting is called Poppy who is a Romanian rescue found on the streets and was very undernourished and heavily pregnant. The pups are now 4 months old and GSDR, with support from Swiis Foster Care, will eventually arrange for their safe travel to new and loving homes. At the moment Swiis Foster Care have foster children in placement and they are at the heart of supporting Poppy and her babies; We recently ran a competition for our fostered children to suggest names for each of the 7 pups, 4 boys and 3 girls. Please click here to see pictures of the newly named pups and their proud mum Poppy, they are so adorable. Most of these dogs are finding their way into the UK through unscrupulous breeders in eastern Europe or coming in via questionable rescuers with no rescue back up here in the UK. Most that we have helped so far, have been picked up as strays here in the UK. This is certainly not the breed for everyone and if you are considering owning a Caucasian Ovcharka , please make sure that you thoroughly research the breed first. They may be the cutest bundles of fluff imaginable as puppies but they are a giant breed and will grow into a very large immensely powerful dog. Caucasian Shepherds that we have for rehoming. The Handy Nanny is available for dog walking, pet sitting and is happy to help with other pets if you are at work or away on holiday. Alice has been involved with GSD rescue since a child and has grown up with dsome very difficult dogs so nothing fazes her. All breeds catered for, all temperaments catered for. We will find the right home for all the dogs that come into our care no matter how long it takes. German Shepherd Rescue is both a registered charity and company, which produces yearly accounts so that you know where your donated monies are spent. Can you help us raise funds so that we can rescue more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs? If you are thinking of buying a dog as a family pet forget that puppies for sale advert, please read this article first. Please do not contact the rescue specifically for puppies - buying a puppy. We are looking for loving homes for rescue dogs of all ages. We always have many German Shepherd dogs for rehoming. Can you offer to adopt a German Shepherd and give it a good home or maybe you could foster a German Shepherd until a new home can be found. If you would like us to feature a German Shepherd dog that is looking for a new home, please contact us with your details. Please note that this is a genuine service for German Shepherd Rescue and not a listing for people wishing to sell their German Shepherd dog. We do not have puppies for sale or dogs for sale but we do ask for a minimum donation which goes towards helping other needy dogs. Monies raised go towards kenneling and veterinary costs. Volunteers are always welcome. German Shepherd Rescue is run by volunteers who are involved because of their love for the breed. Most have jobs and families and fit in rescue work when they can and at their own cost. Please be patient, and we will deal with your requests as soon as we can. Our rescue dogs are worth waiting for! Please help us by donating so that we can help re-home more unwanted German Shepherd dogs. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Thank you. Please help support the rescue Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. German Shepherd Dogs Dogs for Adoption - Urgent case German Shepherd Puppies and Dogs looking for homes "The one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog. The two breeds most at risk are GSD's and Staffies. Their crime - to be surplus to requirement. Unwanted and unloved. They have the same right to a nice home as younger dogs. She is good with children but unknown with dogs due to lack of socialisation and a no to cats. She is housetrained and travels well in the car. Our assessor found her to be a lovely and friendly dog who is sadly not being walked and therefore pulls on the lead. She is in desperate need of a new home where she will be stimulated and exercised but in return you will have a loving and affectionate dog! Zoey - Staffs This lovely girl is 4 year old Zoey who is in need of a new home. Sadly, Zoey's owner has been unable to exercise her so she is a lively girl, she will bark when people come to the home but our assessor found her to be very friendly and Zoey certainly enjoyed a belly rub or two. She is so eager to please, our assessor took her out and found she would not stray far and came back immediately, excellent obedience. She loves to play with her ball, has no food aggression, sleeps in her crate and travels well. Has previously lived with a male dog but did dominate him and currently lives with a cat but if allowed will chase it; due to her excitable nature it would be best not to rehome with younger children. She is no longer up to date with her vaccinations and has not been spayed or micro-chipped. Zoey is a very much loved dog but sadly not given the time an energetic dog like her needs, she deserves a new loving home where she will enjoy the exercise and stimulation she so desperately needs. Benson - Suffolk Benson is a 1yr old neutered male. He was rehomed by GSDR a few months ago but has returned as there have been changes within the family circumstances, and they can no longer cope with him. Benson has become over protective of his current owner and hence has issues with other dogs when out walking. He needs a firm, experienced owner who will teach him boundaries and acceptable behaviour. This young dog will blossom into a loyal friend with the right guidance. Shiloh - west mids This poor little sad girl is 3 year old Shiloh who is up to date with her vaccinations, is micro-chipped and spayed. She is a very nervous young dog and takes time to settle when visitors arrive but is exceedingly affectionate to her people. She is in desperate need of a home where the new owner will preferably not have any other pets or young children and will be able to devote the time and dedication to this very loving dog. Blue 3 year old entire handsome white German Shepherd who is currently in foster care due to previous owners lack of confidence to control and train. Unfortunately Blue suffers from fear aggression and tries to nip and frighten anyone he first meets but the foster carer can already see improvement day to day and Blue is beginning to trust humans again and be more relaxed and settled within their home. With patience and time preferably the only pet and no children Blue should make a fabulous pet for an experienced GSD home. Micro-chipped, vaccinated and medically fit. Saber Very fit and lively 10 year old, entire. Loves to play and cuddles. Unfortunately due to family constraints Saber is living in a very confined space and left for long periods of time. He has lived with a child but due to his size it would be best to place him with older ones, can live with a steady dog but a definite no to cats!! He was originally found on the streets as a stray and his previous owner spent a lot of time in training him and received a lot of certificates, he even went to work with his owner in the office. We were informed he needed careful introduction to new people he meets but he is now in kennels and has met so many people and staff and has not been an issue; in fact they all adore him. Anyone with experience, looking for a large dog, look no further, Frank is your dog!! Although he currently lives with young children it is advised due to his excitable behaviour and size he is rehomed with much older children, he has not been socialised with other dogs but our assessor said that with time, effort and the right owner he will be fine with them but a definite no to cats. He has been neutered and micro-chipped but his vaccinations are now out of date. Although he never went to puppy class he knows basic commands but gets distracted, with an experienced owner he will make a fantastic dog who is in desperate need of stimulation and exercise. Sadly, as in many of these cases, the breeder was only interested in the money and not the long term welfare of the dog; Rocky has become too much for his current family and are unable to give him the time and stimulation a fabulous dog like him requires. Can you? Tala - Notts This lovely lad is 2 year old Tala who is up to date with his vaccinations and entire. He currently lives with children but would be best placed with much older, more experienced ones, loves to play with other dogs but a definite no to cats. Tala will need firm handling and will need to know who is the leader certainly not him! He is housetrained, travels well and will make a fabulous dog in the right home where he will be stimulated and allowed the chance to have a good run out in the fields. Camy - Lou Camy Lou is a beautiful 5yr old spayed bitch. She is a calm and friendly dog in the house. She loves her walks, being outside and also likes swimming so can be a little excitable when she thinks she is about to go out. Camy Lou has had a rough start to life. Her current owners rescued her a year ago. She was in quite a sorry state but with time and patience they have got her to where she is today. She is insured and vaccinated. Camy Lou is great with people but she suffers from toy aggression. Camy Lou responds to basic commands and has a good recall unless she is distracted by a stick or toy. Her current owners love her dearly but are sadly unable to keep her as she attacked one of their other dogs, while in the home, because of a stick. This gorgeous girl has a lot of love to give and would benefit from an experienced GSD owner with no other pets and no children. Layla - Norfolk Layla is a lovely 2yr old bitch in desperate need of some love and attention. She was being kept in a run down, outside kennel with straw as her only comfort. She is quite underweight and has little muscle tone on her back end. This will improve once she is being fed and exercised more regularly. Her owner is seriously ill and has moved away to be with his family leaving Layla to be looked after by a man, who was trying to help the owner out, but who has struggled due to his own workload and other commitments. This young girl needs time, patience and most of all love to steer her back onto the road to good health. She would ideally suit an experienced owner without young children. Willow - Nuneaton Let me introduce you to the utterly gorgeous, big boy Willow. He is 4 years old 5 in Jul , entire and not vaccinated. Due to his size and strength it would be best to rehome him to a family with much older teenagers or no children at all, definitely no cats and needs to be carefully introduced to other dogs. Our assessor did find him to be a little lively but soon calmed down and Willow enjoyed a fuss and a cuddle. Willow is very large dog and has not be shown any ground rules and therefore his new owners need to work with him but in return they will have a fabulous dog! Buddy - West Mids This lovely dog is 8 years young Buddy who is entire and vaccinations are overdue. He currently lives with a family, a cat, loves to play with other dogs in the park and previously lived with dogs in a former home. The family are no longer able to keep Buddy due to his food aggression and behaviour towards various members of the family. However, our assessor found him to be a lovely, friendly dog who was energetic and this was no doubt due to not getting enough exercise or stimulation. In the right home he would make a fabulous addition and would suit an active family preferably with older children due to his excitable nature. Petra Petra is 5 and unspayed. She has never lived with children but was fine with young children she met out. Petra does not like little dogs or cats, and she will stand up for herself with larger dominating dogs. She has been living with a male GSD and her two 5 month daughters. Friendly with people who are friendly to her. Her recall is good as long as she is not distracted. Petra does have a joint problem on her right rear leg and will struggle if walked more than about 4 miles in a day. Poor Petra has had a horrible start in life. The owner used to beat his wife and no doubt at some stag Petra too. She is very nervous of lighters and matches! She will need confident and understanding owners. Current owner rehoming as mobility issues walking all of the dogs! Louie - Coventry This lovely friendly lad is 8 years young Louie. He is neutered, vaccinated and house trained. He is sadly overweight due to lack of exercise but when our assessor took him out she found he eventually walked well on the lead after initially pulling and responded well to commands but could not test his recall. A definite no to cats and dogs he will dominate them so would be best placed as an only dog and to further socialise with other dogs. Louie is a water baby, loves to swim but doesn't like to go out of his depth, travels well in the car but hates fireworks! A friendly dog who really enjoys the attention he deserves and needs a home soon! Bruno - Cambs Bruno is a longhaired 4yr old entire male. He currently lives in a barn but is chained up as he keeps escaping and has killed the neighbours prize chickens. The neighbours have threatened legal action if Bruno is not re-homed soon. While chained Bruno shows aggression and will nip, but when off the chain he is a completely different character and is very friendly. He responded to simple commands and took treats from our assessor. Bruno is good with children, other dogs and cats. We are unsure if he is house trained but he does not mess in his barn. He is not currently walked and so will need some lead training. He shows no aggression when allowed to be free and will make a great addition to the right home. This young man just needs a chance to be a pet rather than a yard dog. Bailey - Suffolk Bailey is a friendly 5yr old neutered male. He has shown some aggression issues in his current home but he is being left to his own devices for long periods and is under stimulated. Our volunteer found Bailey to be very social and saw no signs of aggression. He needs an experienced GSD owner that can spend the time needed to channel Baileys attentions in a positive direction. Can you offer Bailey the home he so urgently needs? Jake - Suffolk Jake is a 3yr old neutered male. He is currently being left alone for long periods, not walked or groomed. Despite his lack of attention Jake is a friendly boy. He needs an experienced owner who can go back to basics and teach him some manners and give him some guidance on acceptable behaviour. Jakes long coat needs a good groom. This young dog is desperate for a home where he will be loved and receive the attention and exercise that every dog deserves. Theo This beautiful boy is 4 year old Theo who will need an experienced owner to provide him with time for exercise and socialisation. He currently lives with another dog and children but would now be best placed with much older teenagers. Although he lives with another dog and gets on well with her, he does not like other dogs when out. He is fully vaccinated and neutered. He requires a home with GSD experience who will guide and stimulate him, in return you will have a fabulous loving dog. He is up to date with vaccinations, neutered and micro-chipped. He is good with children but will need to be homed as the only pet as he likes to enjoy all the fuss and tummy tickles for himself; and following an attack by another dog when he was only 15 weeks old he can no longer tolerate other dogs or any other furry creatures. He is house-trained and has good basic commands. He has unfortunately been diagnosed with hip dysplasia but thanks to his good muscle tone the vet has advised he does not require an operation; the current pet insurance is transferrable. Our assessor found him to be a friendly and pleasant dog, walked well on the lead; his current owner sadly has to give him up as she is unable to control him around other dogs and the other pets in the home. He will suit an experienced owner who will understand his behaviour and provide him with the guidance and manners he requires. Lulu - Nuneaton This beautiful little girl is 3 year old Lulu who is fully vaccinated and micro-chipped and spayed and currently in foster. She has previously lived with children and is ok with most dogs but cannot tolerate small ones and definitely no cats. She is fully house trained but will require further training as she will pull on the lead and needs to learn a few manners. She suffers with dust and food allergies and is currently on medication and a special diet for this; she is currently insured and this is transferrable. She will require a firm handler who can provide her with the guidance and socialization she requires as well as the care needed with her allergy. A lovely girl who needs a chance to enjoy another loving home. He went to attack Ash on a number of occasions, Ash soon showed him who the boss was good lad. This shows he can be ok with the correct guidance. He is a big strong boy so pulls on lead. We would recommend that no small children as he is a very big lad. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Please help support the rescue Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. Thank you. Due to so many dogs and puppies being purchased during lockdown without proper consideration about the long term welfare of these dogs, rescues are now being inundated with unwanted dogs that have missed out on proper socialisation and training in the early months of their lives. The result is that the dogs coming in to rescue require much more time to rehabilitate which means the dogs coming in are staying with us longer than normal and our kennels are full to bursting. If you looking to rehome your dog, we will endeavour to assess your dog as soon as possible and put on our website, HOWEVER, we cannot take any more dogs into our care at present unless there are exceptional circumstances. If you are looking to adopt, we will endeavour to carry out your home check as soon as possible, HOWEVER, we are having to be extremely strict on our criteria at present due to the type of dogs currently in our care. Many of these dogs are not good with other dogs due to lack of socialisation and whilst we can work with them with other large dogs, we do not have the facilities to be able to test them with small dogs. The same applies to cats and young children. Just because your cat or your child is used to large dogs, we will not put any animal or child at risk unnecessarily. We will also not consider any applicant without large dog experience as currently we need homes with experience of handling a large breed dog who may potentially have some issues to still work out. Thank you for your understanding at this difficult time. GSRE is backed up by a team of unpaid volunteers who strive to aid and promote responsible ownership of the breed. We not only look to re-home dogs but keep them in their original homes by offering training and behaviour advice. Through our volunteers and website we want to inform people on all aspects of dog ownership before you decide to take the plunge especially as German Shepherd Dogs are a large working breed and are not suitable for everyone. GSRE is a registered charity that works alongside many other reputable rescues which means that through team work and pulling together we can help even more dogs in need. We are a proactive charity with a common goal; the welfare of animals. Donate with Paypal Donations fund the rescue The rescue is run entirely by volunteers. Please help us by making a donation so that we can rescue and rehome more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. You can donate through Virgin Money Giving, we also accept Paypal payments - just click on the buttons below. Thank you. You shop online with your favourite stores and you raise money at the same time. It's that easy. We produce yearly accounts so that everyone can see where donated monies are used. Everyone at GSDR is an unpaid volunteer. We are experiencing record numbers of dogs needing to find new home. We urgently need new homes, foster homes and donations to cover our kennel and veterinary costs. We currently house up to 40 dogs in commercial boarding kennels. Please help us by fostering or making a donation to help us meet the challenges we face in This lucky dog is enjoying a walk. Many other dogs are less fortunate. To rescue and rehome german shepherds across the whole of the UK To monitor dogs in the dog pounds and remove them to a place of safety when they become at risk To offer help and advice on all aspects of owning a German Shepherd To work with other like minded rescues To educate the public about the wonderful GSD breed To campaign against unscrupulous breeders and puppy farmers and all other aspects that affect the welfare of this breed To promote responsible dog ownership At GSDR there are no 6 figure salaries, company cars or generous pension schemes. As volunteers, we all simply do it because we care!! This is to document some worrying experiences with Holmer Vets Hereford from September , which in our opinion point to negligence and incompetence. Prior to that date, we had no issues, well certainly not with the more senior members of the practice. HR1 3HA.
when will my bulldog puppy calm down - Passing Gas loudly. The Boxer is a Stubborn Breed Generally, your boxer dog will display a great deal of stubbornness and disregard for rules. You may have a hard time getting your Boxer to follow every command and even sometimes disregard you totally. However, by being patient and consistent, boxer dog training is possible. If your boxer dog refuses to listen, the best strategy is to continue to teach and reinforce hierarchy properly. A boxer is not an easy breed to own so, stay away from this breed if the easy way is what you seek. A boxer requires effort and constant interaction to be fully trained. If you are prepared for these, you can get yourself a boxer. The Boxer Breed Can be Destructive Even a human being becomes restless if they do not get something engaging, fun or entertaining to do for hours. If you are going to raise a boxer, you must be ready to have a range of daily activities to engage in such as exercises and walks to keep his or her heart in top shape, maintain muscle mass and get rid of stored energy. You also have to keep up with the grooming of your Boxer to make sure his or her coat and skin are healthy; regular baths, meals and playtime with interesting toys. If your Boxer gets maximum attention from you when you are around, he or she will behave well in your absence. Separation Anxiety This is a thing that happens in both adult and boxer puppies. If you always leave your boxer dog at home for too long every time, separation anxiety can occur. For some dogs, ten minutes alone may be too much for them to handle while some begin to feel nervous after some hours. If you have observed your Boxer to be sensitive to being left alone, you can put him through some boxer training to cope with being alone. You can start by doing without the hugs and kisses when leaving him alone. This is to avoid giving him the feeling that leaving is a big deal. No matter the amount of attention you give to your boxer dog, withdraw the attention at least 30 minutes before leaving him or her behind in the house so he can get used to your absence. After feeding your dog and you take him out to defecate, find a way to leave quietly. You can throw him a toy to distract him. Start by leaving him for some minutes and then gradually increase the time. Every time you return, do not make a big deal out of it. Enter calmly and greet your Boxer in a relaxed tone. You need your dog to see your leaving and coming back as normal things to do. Living with Other Dogs The Boxer breed generally has no problems if they have to live with other dogs. Two boxer dogs will do well with each other, and if your Boxer is already established, you should first test to see how he or she tolerates another dog before bringing a new dog home. However, most Boxer dogs do remarkably well when it comes to living with other dogs and interacting with them. Internal Environment Before you take your boxer dog home, you must first consider space. The average Boxer can cope in a small living space, but if you have a larger living space, it makes things even better. The Boxer breed is a playful animal and will enjoy having a large space to run and play around. If you do not have a lot of space in your living room, you have to think about when your puppy grows into a large adult because even adult Boxers love playing around. Your Boxer seems to be open to having playmates, and this is good for socializing. Why is my one-year-old Boxer yet to bark? Many boxers do not bark but instead do all the protection and intimidation with their size. Some boxers are easy going and quite laid back and will never bark unnecessarily. As long as your Boxer does not show any signs of health problems, you have nothing to worry about. My Boxer is always hiccupping? What can I do to stop it? Just like humans, dogs too get hiccups, and in most cases, the hiccups do not last for long. In some rare cases, the hiccups may go on for long, and it could start making your dog frustrated. If your Boxer shows signs of being bothered and frustration due to the spasms in his or her diaphragms, you can get some smooth peanut butter and give him a spoonful. This works in most cases. You should find out some boxer dog training methods on how to stop begging. You should never leave your Boxer outside unsupervised. Intolerance to Cold Any breed of dog can be affected by cold and big-sized dogs like the Boxer breed is not exempted. Keep your Boxer active and well-exercised. Encourage your boxer puppy or dog to stay outdoors and fight the cold. If it gets unbearable, take your dog inside immediately. Jumping on People While it may look like playful behavior, it is a behavior that you should curb. It is common to have an enthusiastic dog who leaps up at people to greet them. You can try out some effective Boxer training methods to put a stop to this behavior. Drooling Drooling is somewhat expected from Boxers, but there has to be a limit. Know how much drooling is normal and how much is excessive, and do something about it right away. Here's what to know and do when your new puppy gets the hiccups. By Karen Weir-Jimerson Karen is a non-partisan pet lover, having raised dogs, cats, canaries, horses, donkeys, chickens, and tropical fish. She writes about gardening, rural life, and, of course, her two precocious Jack Russell terriers Pez and Dash , Labrador Retriever Pilot , and her year-old quarter horse Yukon. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on August 24, Hiccups are a funny sound, except when they're coming from your new puppy. Watching his little body jump with every "hic" may be enough to worry any new pet parent. Here's what you should know about puppy hiccups. Hiccups are a mammal thing: You get them, and so can your puppy. Hiccups are sharp little intakes of breath that are caused by repetitive contractions of the diaphragm muscle , which is located under the lungs. If your diaphragm is irritated by something— like eating or drinking too much—it contracts involuntarily. Each contraction forces the vocal cords to close, creating the characteristic "hic! It works the same way for puppies. What Causes Puppy Hiccups? So what can be irritating your puppy's diaphragm? These uncontrollable contractions may be simply caused by your puppy's excitement. He may have eaten his food too fast. Or consumed water too fast. Puppies are exuberant little beings, and it's hard for them to control their enthusiasm. Or your puppy simply may have gas, and hiccups are the result. Puppies of all ages—from tiny newborns to galloping 4-month-olds—may get hiccups. In fact, dogs of all ages can get hiccups. Just like in humans, finding a remedy for hiccups is difficult. There are a wide range of home remedies for ridding humans of hiccups holding your breath, breathing into a paper bag, or gargling , but none of these remedies is scientifically proven to work in humans, much less in dogs imagine trying to teach a dog to gargle! Ultimately, your puppy's hiccups will go away on their own. Do Hiccups Hurt Your Puppy? They are more surprising than painful. Keep in mind that nothing bad is happening inside your puppy when he is hiccuping. When Are Hiccups a Concern? A bout of hiccups might be a concern to the owner of a new puppy, especially if they are adopting their first puppy. Martin suggests that any time a new puppy owner feels concerned about their puppy's reaction even over something as common as hiccups , that they should reach out to their veterinarian with questions. Was this page helpful? Key Takeaways Pro Tip: In rare cases, hiccups can be an indication of a serious underlying condition, and the longer you wait to see the vet, the more damage that can occur. With pet insurance, owners may feel empowered to get the fast answers they need for peace of mind about their pet's health, with protection against the financial risk of incurred vet costs. Can dogs get hiccups? Yes, dogs can get hiccups. In fact, they're quite common, and in most cases, nothing to worry about. Dog hiccups are very similar to human hiccups. They occur when the diaphragm the muscle between the abdomen and the chest cavity contracts involuntarily. When your canine companion gets the hiccups, their inhaling breathe is followed by abrupt stops, which might shake their belly and chest, causing them to make a "hic" sound. As a dog ages, the frequency of hiccup bouts usually decreases. Why do dogs get hiccups? Dogs get hiccups when their diaphragm is irritated, causing it to contract then relax in involuntary spasms. The most common cause of dog hiccups is eating or drinking too quickly because it forces them to swallow air along with the food or water. Food intolerance is another possible cause of hiccups in dogs. The stomach is close to the diaphragm, which can potentially cause spasms if their tummy is uncomfortable. Other explanations for why dogs get hiccups include stress, excitement, and energetic play. In some cases, the cause of dog hiccups may be due to an upset stomach or gas. Do puppies get hiccups? Puppies of all ages — from newborns to 6-month-olds — can get hiccups. Hiccups are far more common in small puppies than in grown-up dogs, with almost all puppies exhibiting hiccups at some point during their development. In fact, puppies experience hiccups even before they're born, while they're still in their mother's womb. Fun Fact: This also occurs in humans and other mammals, and although the reason is still unknown, the theory is that hiccups are a result of the body testing the muscles associated with breathing. Why do puppies get hiccups? There are several reasons why puppies get hiccups far more often than older dogs, including: Puppies tend to be more excitable and more energetic than adult dogs. Rapid bursts of energy can easily impact their breathing causing hiccups. Puppies are also more likely to eat or drink too fast. Puppies have weaker organs, and their digestive system is less mature than those of adult dogs. Being too tired or cold can also trigger puppy hiccups. That's why sleeping pups are much more prone to bouts of hiccups than awake ones. How to get rid of dog hiccups If your dog has hiccups, there are several methods you can try to get rid of them. Many of the same cures used by humans also work well for dogs. A sip of water might help, just make sure they drink it slowly. Otherwise, they might gulp down air and end up with another bout of hiccups. You can try to give them something sweet preferably in a liquid form , such as water mixed with a little bit of sugar. The sweetness might help distract them and hopefully relax their breathing pattern. These can coat the throat to soothe the irritation and slow down the breathing process. Just be sure that anything you give your pet doesn't contain Xylitol. This artificial sweetener is used in many human products, but it is toxic to dogs. Light exercise, like a mellow walk, may also do the trick by changing your pet's breathing patterns Keep in mind, the chest contractions can be somewhat violent, so avoid giving your pet foods that require a lot of chewing, as this might present a choking hazard. Prevention is always better than reaction. If your furry friend is prone to hiccups, try to figure out what causes them. If your dog is very eager to gobble up his food or water, consider getting them a slow dog feeder. Another option is to feed your pup several smaller portions throughout the day instead of two large meals. You should also consider the size of their water bowl. There are bowls with different heights or levels that can help the water go down slower and with less air intake. When should you be concerned about your dog's hiccups? Occasional hiccups are a perfectly normal occurrence in dogs and should not be a cause for concern. However, if your pup's hiccups occur very often, if they last for longer than a couple of hours at a time, or they begin to interfere with their daily activities, you should get in touch with your veterinarian. Here are a few potentially serious causes of dog hiccups: Respiratory issues. If hiccups are accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, discharge from the nose, or wheezing, it could be a sign of respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Heatstroke in dogs can also trigger hiccups. Any dog can experience this life-threatening condition, but brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs and Bulldogs are especially susceptible due to their restricted airways and short muzzles. The list of potentially serious causes of dog hiccups also includes pericarditis inflammation of the heart sac, the pericardium, which causes fluid to accumulate between the layers and hypothermia extreme lowering of the body temperature resulting from exposure to frigid temperatures for too long. Gastric issues. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, vomiting, and bloody stools on top of prolonged hiccups, it might be an indication of a gastrointestinal GI problem. The same symptoms, along with overall lethargy and exercise intolerance, can be a sign of a parasitic infection. Parasites such as roundworms and hookworms can also attack your pet's respiratory system. If your dog is still a puppy, make sure to have them on a de-worming schedule. They should be de-wormed at two, four, six, eight, and weeks as a puppy, and then every three months. When you take your pup to the vet, the vet will likely start with a physical exam, bloodwork, and urinalysis. Depending on the initial results and the clinical signs your furry friend is showing, an abdominal ultrasound, chest X-rays, CT scan, and an MRI might be recommended in order to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal hiccups. Key Takeaways Dog hiccups occur when the diaphragm involuntarily contracts and might result from eating or drinking too fast, over-excitement, or stress. Puppy hiccups are quite common, and these hiccups typically become less frequent as your pet gets older. Feeding smaller meals and slow-feeding dog bowls can help prevent hiccups in dogs. Occasional hiccups in dogs are normal and are nothing to worry about. However, if hiccups last more than a couple of hours, if they're accompanied by other symptoms, or if they start affecting your pet's life, it is best to speak to your vet. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. When a Boxer Has Hiccups Mufasa, 10 weeks old Photo courtesy of owner: Christina Knowles Overview Just like humans, canines can get a case of the hiccups and for some dogs, the episode can last quite a while or a Boxer can have reoccurring hiccups quite frequently. In most cases hiccuping is not a sign of a health problem. In this section we are going to discuss: What exactly happens Is there a reason to be concerned What causes a Boxer dog to get hiccups, along with prevention tips The rare but possible health conditions that have hiccups as a symptom Methods to quickly stop an episode How to know when hiccups last too long What is a Canine Hiccup? Hiccups involve 3 parts of the body: the diaphragm, vocal box larynx , and glottis vocal flaps. There are certain elements that will trigger quick, involuntary spasms of the diaphragm lasting. A forth of a second later, there is a contraction of the vocal box, along with a closure of the vocal flaps. An episode can consist of just a handful of 'hics' or can last for hours and in some rare cases days or even longer. Reasons for Concern With canines, episodes tend to happen to puppies more often than adult dogs. Since it causes a very brief pause in normal breathing, hiccups lasting hours can cause a dog to become stressed and some even panic as they gasp for air and struggle to breathe normally. This alone is a reason to find ways to stop a Boxer from hiccuping and in some very rare cases, it can point to a health issue more ahead. Why Boxer Dogs Get Hiccups With many puppies and dogs, it may seem that hiccups happen randomly and without cause. However, there are some common triggers that are often at fault: Eating or drinking too quickly - When a dog eats too fast, this can cause him to also swallow air which itself is a cause of hiccups , however eating fast in and of itself can also trigger them due to a distension of the diaphragm. Since the Boxer breed is very prone to bloat and one of the main causes of that is eating or drinking very fast, if your Boxer puppy or dog tends to have hiccups after having food or water, this is a red flag that a method should be instilled to help the Boxer slow down. The two best options for bowls are to use a slow feeder bowl for both food and water or to place a stainless steel portion pacer in the dishes. If you're giving out a handful of treats, don't offer them all at once. Another common issue is a Boxer needing to drink a lot right after exercise and this may cause hiccups as well as bloat. It's always best to bring along water in a canine water travel container we like the ones that have a lid that serves as the bowl so that you can offer water halfway through a walk or while out at a park. This way, your Boxer can stay hydrated and doesn't have to lap up water super-fast when finally home. Swallowing air - This goes right along with the above cause; though there are some circumstances when a dog may also draw in a breath too quickly see next reason Excitement - Any strong emotion can cause a dog to develop hiccups such as fear and stress however it is over-excitement that is the most common reason. The reason for this is because there is a correlation between emotional excitement and a tensing of the stomach muscles which triggers the diaphragm to react. In addition, dogs often breath heavy when excited. It's fairly common for Boxer dogs to get really excited for anything that they deem fun, including getting ready to go for a walk, being driven up to a favorite spot beach, park, etc. Some also get really hyped up when an owner returns after being gone for the day. If you do notice that your Boxer hiccups when he gets revved up, there are a couple of things you can do: 1. Act a bit more matter-of-fact when announcing an event. If an owner typically speaks in a way to get a dog enthusiastic about going out or to get ready for play, it can help to keep things a bit low-key. If a Boxer get charged up due to an owner's arrival back home, implementing some steps that are used for separation anxiety issues can help. Temperature change while eating - This is not a reason for hiccups that would normally come to mind for many dog owners, however a study done in indicates that if the temperature suddenly rises or lowers while eating, it can disturb nerve pathways between the brain and muscles, which can manifest as hiccups. If a Boxer dog's eating area is right near a heating or AC vent, and burst of heat or cold air comes out while he's having his meal, this could be the cause. Food with too much grain content - Ingesting dry wheat can cause hiccups. If a dog's dry kibble contains a high grain ratio which is sign of an inferior food , this can be the reason that the dog suffers from episodes. If a Boxer has frequent hiccups that are disruptive for the dog and other triggers such as eating too quickly have been ruled out, reassess your Boxer's food. There's zero grains, no synthetic preservatives, no artificial additives, and no soy or by-products. It's well-balanced, and has extra bonuses including omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and glucosamine. Rare but Possible Canine Health Conditions that Cause Hiccups There are several diseases and health issues that do have hiccups as a symptom. This includes: Inflammatory bowel disease - This is a disorder in which the intestines become inflamed and eventually do not properly absorb nutrients. With this, early signs are very subtle and may include hiccups. As this progresses there are serious symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Small bowel obstruction - The Boxer breed is certainly a dog that is known to mouth and swallow things that he shouldn't and this can lead to quite serious internal blockage. While partial or full obstruction will have obvious signs including vomiting a clear fluid, trouble having a bowel movement and general distress, a small partial blockage in the stomach not generally the intestines can put pressure on the diaphragm which results in hiccups. GERD- This stands for gastro-esophageal reflux disease. With this, there is a reverse flow of gastric or intestinal fluids into the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat and the stomach. This happens with young puppies more often than older dogs, but can develop in a Boxer dog of any age. In later stages this leads to weight loss. Respiratory disease - Essentially any medical condition that affects a dog's breathing can also cause frequent episodes of hiccups. This includes pneumonia and asthma. Central Nervous System issues - This includes brain tumors which do affect the Boxer breed more often than many other breeds. The Boxer dog and other brachycephalic breeds are prone to a specific type of brain tumor known as gliomas. This is seen more often in older, senior Boxers. Signs include changes in behavior such as pacing and circling. The dog may have trouble walking and show signs of clumsiness. There may also be trouble swallowing, hiccups and a rapid flickering of the eye nystagmus. Some dogs may also suffer from seizures , though this is not always the case. Metabolism issues - Any disorder that affects a dog's metabolism can also cause frequent hiccups. This includes hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and diabetes. There will be symptoms including weight changes, acting tired and usually changes to the skin and coat. Conditions that affect the vagus nerve - The vagus nerve is the longest of the 12 cranial nerves, extending from the brainstem to the abdomen. It touches the lungs and esophagus. If there is irritation to this nerve it can trigger hiccups. The most common condition affecting this nerve is irritation in the throat area and with canines this is most often due to allergies or thyroid disease. The latter causes a swelling of the larynx which can trigger hiccups. Much rarer would be meningitis. How to Help a Boxer Dog Stop Hiccupping For acute cases where you feel that it's in your Boxer's best interest to intervene, there are some old 'stand-by' methods that may help stop a puppy or dog from hiccuping. It's important to note that what may work for one dog may have no affect at all on another. So if a person owned two Boxers and both had hiccups, they may each need a different treatment to stop. You may also find that your Boxer responds best if more than one method is used in succession. Here is what has been found to help: 1 Offering the right food or giving water- Basically anything that changes the pattern of how a dog breathes can make hiccups stop. One of the best foods for this is smooth peanut butter. When a dog is given peanut butter he can't quickly swallow it though with Boxers, you never really know! Usually, that's all they need, a quick disruption and the episode will stop. You'll want to offer a level teaspoon for Boxer puppies under the age of 1 year old and a slightly heaped tablespoon for full grown dogs. Alternatively, encouraging a dog to drink water can help, but most dogs will not drink on command. Additionally, if a Boxer seems distressed by the spasms, this is a good way to get his focus on something else. Just be sure to NOT do this if your Boxer just ate, since exercise after eating can cause bloat. You'll want to have your Boxer sit or lie down on his side. Massage the chest area, with an alternating motion of stroking down and then in circles. Since a tensing of the diaphragm is one of the elements that occurs at onset, this can work by relaxing that and the surrounding muscles. How to Know if Hiccups are Lasting too Long A random, acute case is often ignored by both owner and dog and is nothing to be concerned with. If your Boxer is hiccuping just about every day, even if it is for a short amount of time, you'll want to look to the typical triggers such as how rapidly he or she is eating and drinking, the level of grains in the dog's food and over-excitement issues. Veterinary Treatment If a puppy or dog has a serious hiccuping problem, the veterinarian should run tests to check for all possible health conditions. Any condition or disease will need appropriate treatment. If a dog is found to be perfectly healthy and there are no underlying issues, the vet may prescribe medication that will relax the diaphragm muscles. The two most common medications that are given for this are chlorpromazine and haloperidol. With canines, chlorpromazine is typically used as an antiemetic to control nausea and vomiting and is sometimes used to treat dogs that are hypersensitive to noise noise phobia. In large doses, it is used as a tranquilizer but it also works well as a muscle relaxant. Haloperidol, much like chlorpromazine, blocks dopamine receptors and is typically used to calm dogs down before being given general anesthesia. It also sometimes used to treat behavior problems including aggression. Both are given in very low doses. Your veterinarian should discuss with you the benefits of medical intervention vs the distress the a puppy or dog experiences with severe, chronic hiccups. In many cases, a young dog will outgrow his hiccuping episodes and if he was given medication, this can often be stopped as he matures. If a puppy or dog has no other symptoms, most of the time at-home treatments are all that is needed. If however, your Boxer suffers from chronic episodes, appears distressed or has any other signs that something is wrong, it is best to have him evaluated by the veterinarian. Both prevention and treatment. Boxer Dog Feeding - Covers all main meal feeding details, plus recommended kibbles. Boxer Dog Dental Care - Don't let your Boxer's teeth get rotted out; these pretty easy at-home steps can keep your Boxer's teeth strong and healthy. Things to do now.Become a Member - Receive reminders when we add new pages of information, submit photos of your Boxer to be added to the site, suggest something for us to write about. Browse the Boxer Dog Supplies - A round-up of our recommended products for optimal care. Check out our book - Simply the most comprehensive, helpful Boxer dog book that exists. Dogs just like humans experience the world consciously using their senses. Similarities can be noticed even in physiological events.When a person is hiccuping, we know that this can occasionally happen and there is nothing to worry about. What about our pets? Is it normal if our dog is hiccuping, or should we be worried? What Are Hiccups? Hiccups are involuntary spams of the diaphragm. Although the actual reason for the hiccups remains unknown, it is believed that it might be related to the time when the uterus was still developing. Hiccups were supposed to help the fetus learn to breathe. This explains why hiccups are more common in pups than in older dogs. Of course there are also theories that try to explain this physiological event i. Causes for Hiccups The most common cause of dogs having hiccups is eating or drinking too fast, as that way they also gulp air. Another common cause of hiccups in dogs is stomach problems. If your pup is intolerant to certain food and its stomach gets irritated, diaphragm contractions may occur. This can be explained by the location of the stomach which is near the diaphragm. Stressful factors, as well as over-excitement, may also cause hiccups. If your dog has persistent hiccups these might be a sign of underlying health conditions such as brain, respiratory, kidney, or gastric problems, pericarditis, hypothermia as well as for the presence of certain parasites. Typically, if an underlying health condition is present, this is likely to be accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, fatigue, coughing, and diarrhea. How Can You Deal with Hiccups? In most cases, you do not have to do anything about it, as it will stop on its own. However, if the hiccups do not stop on their own, there are a few things you can do to help your dog deal with them. You should make sure that you do not overfeed your dog, as this might lead to many health problems. Similar to humans, drinking water can help your paw friend stop hiccuping. We would recommend that you use a bowl that is deep and wide enough so that your pup can drink water without problems. You should ensure that you do not add too much sweetness and that it does not contain xylitol, raisins or chocolate. If the hiccups are persistent, you should consult your veterinarian. Pups need to go through monthly checks until they reach the age of months, while adult dogs should be examined at least once a year. Since certain breeds are prone to specific health conditions, you may want to get professional advice in regard to this matter. When it comes to lifestyle- dogs, who spend much time outdoor and are greedy, are more likely to quickly swallow something even non-edible items when unsupervised. Also they have a higher tendency to get parasites, which may also lead to hiccups. What You Should Not Do? Do not try to scare your dog. This might cause more stress than actually bring a positive result. Hiccups Based on the Dog Age As we mentioned above, puppies are more likely to have hiccups than adult dogs, as they usually swallow the food too fast and get overly excited much easier. Short sessions, lots of praising, and giving treats in a reasonable amount will help you keep your doggy motivated during the training sessions. You can apply all these techniques on a daily basis to calm your pup down as needed. Their short muzzle obstructs the airflow access, which may cause hiccups. In general, we would say that occasional hiccups are quite normal, and you should not worry. If hiccups occur on a regular basis, especially if they are continuous, you should consult a veterinarian.
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when will my bulldog puppy calm down - Wet food.As well as it being tasty, there are certain things to look out for when hunting for the best wet food for your puppy. For example, large and giant breeds are particularly prone to orthopaedic problems if they do not eat an appropriate diet while they are growing. That's why you can find food designed specifically for larger breeds. This is easy with wet food but is not as noticeable on treats. The more they eat, the more it will cost you. You should also be aware that your pup will need more food as they grow, and they grow incredibly quickly. You should also always consult your breeder. ShepherdSense has put together a handy guide on what your pup should eat at every stage of their growing development. All dogs can be prone to allergies, but some breeds are more susceptible to developing allergies and the German Shepherd is one of these. Many things may trigger an allergic reaction in German Shepherds, including food products like animal proteins, wheat, eggs, soy or milk and environmental pathogens that are present in their everyday environments such as pollen, dust, perfumes or moulds. Some German Shepherds can also be allergic to flea saliva, leading to a condition known as flea-allergic dermatitis. When this condition occurs the dog will develop irritated skin after just one flea bite, leading to incessant itching, red spots on the skin and inflammation. German Shepherds are known for having thick fur, so brushing and checking their skin daily or weekly is vital to keep on top of any changes. If you think your German Shepherd does have an allergy, seek the help of your vet as soon as possible. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands including John Lewis, Daily Mirror and Grazia. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's rennovating her Victorian terrace and chilling in the garden with her sausage dog Waffle. Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us. Jump on live chat or leave a message. Dog food for German Shepherds With a high drive, large and fast-growing bones and a higher-chance of hip and joint issues than other breeds, the ideal German Shepherd dog food is high in quality meat protein, well balanced and low in inflammation markers. We designed Scratch for great German Shepherds like Vinnie here. What should you pay attention to when picking food for your German shepherd? Is it full of chicken, beef or poultry? This effects joints and overall mobility, as well as skin and coat. Controlling inflammation is vital in older dogs. German Shepherd nutritional needs Like most breeds, German Shepherds have genetic traits not guarantees, but higher likelihood and lifestyle-related health issues to consider, and hopefully avoid. Good breading and genetic testing can reduce a lot of risk, with diet and lifestyle also helping to avoid or reduce the effect. High-protein from quality meat sources. All Scratch meat protein comes from specific source, human-grade meat Ingredients with low inflammation markers to look after those joints. German Shepherd puppy food With fast growing bones and growth hormones in overdrive, German Shepherd puppies require a different diet than smaller puppies. Their food needs to contain: A calcium:phosphorous ratio in a range suitable for large breeds. DHA for brain development Enough salt and electrolytes Tons of protein at least .But not all protein is created equal. Dogs do better with plenty of high-quality animal protein. How much should a German Shepherd eat a day? Different foods give off different amounts of energy. Scratch for instance has more energy in a piece of kibble than most other dry dog foods, so dogs would eat less Scratch than other foods and a bag would last longer. Look for the amount of Kcal per grams. The higher the number, the more energy the food contains. The lower, the less it contains and the more they would need to eat. To find out how much Scratch your German Shepherd should eat a day, take our personalised quiz. If you have a puppy, their feeding guide will update as they grow. Comparing German Shepherd dog food Dog Food. Wheat Soy Preservatives, some grains like wheat, barley, corn, and white rice, as well as dyes, excessive salt, and various sugars, are among the common ingredients in dog food that can irritate the stomach. Helps speed up recovery time. To help expedite the recovery process and support a healthy digestive system, consider feeding your pup a specialized formula crafted for stomach problems. These specially formulated foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that aid in smooth digestion 2. Maintains a healthy weight. You can maintain a healthy weight by choosing a complete and balanced dog food formula and feeding it in the recommended amounts. Your German Shepherd can maintain a healthy weight by eating the vitamins, minerals, and calories found in dog foods designed for sensitive tummies and diarrhea. Reduces inflammation. Giving German Shepherd dogs food to treat diarrhea also has the benefit of reducing the inflammatory response that results. Gentle dog foods designed for stomach sensitivities in German Shepherds are less likely to cause stomach inflammation, reducing digestive irritation. Boosts their immune system. Incorporating easily digestible ingredients that are less taxing on the digestive system, sensitive formula dog foods support the immune systems of these animals. Reduces stress. The digestive system can become irritated by anxiety and stress, which can result in diarrhea. However, giving your German Shepherd dog food designed to prevent diarrhea can lessen their stress from stomach aches and give them a sense of relief. There are more benefits than you might have thought! The following is a quick guide to choosing foods that encourage firm stools and lessen stomach upset: High in protein, coming from a limited number of protein sources Look for foods that are high in protein and contain quickly digestible carbohydrates when choosing the best food for a German Shepherd suffering from diarrhea. Consuming excessive amounts of fat can result in runny stools, upset stomachs, and generally poor nutrition. Easily digestible carbohydrates Rice and oats, which are both readily digestible carbohydrates, can give your dog a consistent supply of energy and support a healthy digestive system. For owners who want to feed their pets a diet free of grains, there are still several food options. Addition of probiotics and prebiotics Dog foods with probiotics and prebiotics should be sought out as well. Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that support the growth of the good bacteria already present in the gut, whereas probiotics are helpful bacteria that support the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. In case more is needed, probiotics and prebiotics can be added as a daily supplement. Fatty acids have been shown to improve digestion, lower inflammation, and, in some cases, ease anxiety and stress. What should you look for when selecting dog food for your German Shepherd with runny poop? Wet or dry formulas What kind of food does your German Shepherd prefer—dry or wet? Or perhaps a mix of the two? Dry foods make up the vast majority of sensitive dog food options. Giving your dog dry kibble on a regular basis is simple and requires little effort. However, if you have a German Shepherd who finds it easier to eat softer, wet food, it may be worthwhile to consider such options to keep their bellies in shape. Cost vs. No dog owner is exempt from the costs of specially formulated pet foods. There are food options for German Shepherds experiencing diarrhea at a range of price points to accommodate different budgets. If you choose a more expensive option, you might discover that your dog is healthier, happier, and has fewer stomach sensitivities. Puppy, adult, and senior age groups You must choose the proper German Shepherd dog food for their age and needs. All of the foods on the list may soothe an upset stomach, but you also need to consider what your German Shepherd needs nutritionally based on their age. In general: Puppy food contains more calories and nutrients for healthy growth than adult food. Senior dog food contains fewer calories and fats to help dogs maintain weight. High palatability Does your dog have taste preferences that might sway them toward a certain flavor? Do you know they definitely dislike certain proteins, such as beef or lamb? German Shepherds with diarrhea can suffer from a lack of appetite, so food that smells tasty to them must be found in order for their guts to stay regular. Look for foods that not only have the vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients your dog needs for optimum health but are also tasty and enticing to your dog. Consider also that any other items you feed your dog could cause diarrhea, including treats. See here a list of healthy treat options for German Shepherds to give you some ideas. Instead of giving them the new food all at once, introduce it gradually to prevent stomach issues. Keep an eye on your dog during the transition period to ensure they are tolerating the new food well. Look out for any signs of digestive upset, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. If your dog experiences any digestive issues, slow down the transition process and wait until they are feeling better before continuing. Once your dog is fully transitioned to the new food, monitor their overall health and well-being. Remember that if your German Shepherd has stomach issues unrelated to their diet, there is no dog food that will magically cure them. Be on the lookout for any indications of a digestive problem, such as nausea and upset stomach , vomiting, or a loss of appetite. Observe changes in their energy levels, coat, and general behavior. Always get them to a vet when in doubt! However, you should not put off taking your dog to the vet if their health is in jeopardy. Dog food for your German Shepherd with diarrhea should be easily digestible and made with gastrointestinal issues in mind. The best options are:. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content.