Is A German Shepherd Puppy Right For You
German Shepherd puppies make very loyal, protective, and loving pets. Many vets, trainers, and owners who share their lives with German Shepherd puppies feel blessed. If you can accept the responsibility for training them and caring for them, you will be rewarded.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the authorâs knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
Finding A German Shepherd Breeder
The first step is to do your research. Sadly, there are many puppy mills posing as reputable breeders along with many online scams. Be aware, and reach out to different online forums for conversations about getting your future furry family member.
Be sure to ask questions, make arrangements to meet the parent dogs or mother, and follow your gut. If something seems wrong at a breeder you visit, or the German shepherd puppy seems too good to be true, theres likely something going on. The AKC also offers resources for finding a breeder, with fairly strict guidelines on who they let participate.
How Many Litters Can A Dog Produce In A Year
Some females can produce multiple litters within a 12-month period. It just depends on the dogs natural cycle, body condition and the desires of the breeder. A handful of canines will cycle three or four times a year, but most dogs only have two cycles per year, spaced about six months apart.
But, breeding a female twice in the same year is frowned upon by many breeders. Doing so is very hard on the moms body, and many believe that it will result in a decline in the total number of puppies produced by a dog over her lifetime. Accordingly, many will allow their dog to produce a litter, and then give her a breather during her next heat cycle. This essentially means that theyll produce one litter per year.
However, other breeders see no reason to avoid breeding dogs in heat, as long as they are healthy and in good physical condition.
In fact, breeders of this mindset often argue that because fertility decreases with age and most dogs will be six months older with every heat cycle, you can produce more puppies over the course of a females life by breeding in back-to-back heat cycles during the prime reproductive years of a dogs life.
While dogs can produce quite a few litters over the course of their lives, its important to realize that each pregnancy takes a toll on a dogs health. Accordingly, many conscientious breeders will only allow a given mom to produce a handful of litters.
You May Like: Can A Chihuahua And A German Shepherd Mate
How To Breed German Shepherds
If you are wondering how to breed German Shepherds of high quality, and especially if you are new to breeding GSDs, there are plenty questions you must have in mind. Were giving you GSD-specific knowledge below so you can be prepared for your next German Shepherd litter of puppies.
Remember that all dog breeds from Chihuahuas to Great Danes are all part of the same species and for 99% of things related to dog breeding, they are the same. This is why we recommend you to grab a copy of our bestselling ebook, The Dog Breeders Handbook.
How Long Do German Shepherd Reproduce
It can be a result of an accident, or you want to breed your german shepherd dog.
A Female German Shepherd develops her sexual maturity when she is 6 to 12 months old. A Gsd can Get pregnant after the first estrous cycle. German Shepherd can reproduce their whole life if they are physically healthy and fit. A Female will take 58 to 68 days to give birth to the puppies.
It is recommended not to breed your German Shepherd until its 2nd cycle.
You should wait that your dog is at least 2 years old. Breeding a 6 to 12 months old german shepherd is like breeding a young girl.
German Shepherd is a big dog, it can take up to 2 years to have its first heating cycle.
The heating cycle consists of different stages. Estrus is when a German Shepherd can get pregnant.
Also Check: German Shepherd Feeding Chart
How Many Times A Year Do German Shepherds Go Into Heat
Early every year, female German Shepherds go into heat. The first season of estrus usually starts between the ages of six and nineteen months.While it is not possible for humans to accurately predict when a female German Shepherd will next come into heat, there are certain indicators that may be noticed by an observant owner. At the onset of estrus, you may notice increased attention towards potential mates, the display of sexual behavior by mounting another animal or human , marked reduction in food intake or loss of appetite entirely. However, some bitches have been known to eat more during this time as well so there is no definitive answer. In addition to behavioral manifestation it can often be.
Arthritis Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that is very common in GSDs. In this condition, the ball and socket joint of the hip are malformed. There can be slippage in the joint, and a grinding of the bones against each other leading to arthritis and degenerative joint disease.
The 2016 breed statistics from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals showed a rate of hip dysplasia in the German Shepherd Dog to be 20.5%. In other words, of the 118,891 dogs assessed for hip problems more than a fifth of GSDs had abnormal hips. The OFA ranks the German Shepherd dog has the 39th breed displaying this problematic health condition.
In 2014, a study of the genetics of hip dysplasia in the German Shepherd Dog was conducted at the Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany. These researchers were successful in identifying a genome that predisposed the dog to hip dysplasia. Dogs may show the condition may, indeed, be carriers of the trait. There is a genetic test available from the Hannover researchers for detecting the responsible trait.
In addition, the elbow joint can be malformed the connecting bones do not fit together causing trauma to the structure of the elbow. The OFA statistic for elbow problems was almost 20% of the 43,399 dogs had abnormal elbows. The German Shepherd Dog ranked in at the 15th spot for this problem.
Don’t Miss: Taping German Shepherd Ears
German Shepherd’s Origin Price Personality Life Span Health Grooming Shedding Hypoallergenic Weight Size & More German Shepherd Information What Other Names Does The German Shepherd Have
However, pure black german shepherds are also. Unfortunately, some studies have found german shepherds to be more aggressive than other dogs. German shepherds often weigh between 75 and 90. Many breeds which have double coats will feel a hairdryer too hot, so you should rather dry the german shepherd with a towel or if using a dryer how do i know what too much shedding is?
If you’ve come desperately in search for hair shedding solutions then you’ve come to the right german shepherds will shed all year long, but there are certain times when they suddenly explode into shedding furballs.
Although the german shepherd sheds a huge amount, there are some things to watch out for which.
Do you know how many calories your german shepherd needs every day and how many cups of food you should be giving it every day?
How Can You Tell If German Shepherd Is Purebred
The most obvious way to determine whether or not a dog is purebred would be to take the dog with you to meet an experienced breeder, who can make the most accurate determination.Dominant or recessive genetics are also considered in determining physical traits of dogs, but this is complicated and requires close examinations of parentage through detailed family lineage. If it looks like there may be inconsistent breeding practices , then DNA testing will pick up on that too. Dog breeders do all they can not only for the good health of their puppies, but also for the sake of preserving genetic integrity so only healthy dogs are bred in future generations..
Also Check: What Age Do German Shepherds Calm Down
Taking Care Of A German Shepherd Puppies
New-borns cannot see or hear until 5 to 8 days of age. Puppies do not stand until at least 2 to 4 weeks of age. Same for the barking behavior.
If left in the litter or orphaned, or if its mother is unable to produce enough milk, or if the suckle reflex for the puppy is poor, ask your vet for the Lactose-Free weaning milk prescribed for the German Shepherd Puppies.
Check if the temperature is warm enough as the puppies cannot control their temperature at this stage. During the first week of puppies, the room should be between 30º and 32ºC. For the second week, it can be slightly reduced between 26º and 28º and around 22º after the third week.
You do not need to bathe them this time, because the mother GSD cleans her litter by constantly pressing.
If the puppies are orphaned, you can wash them gently using a warm and damp cloth. Dont forget to change the mattresses daily to keep the area clean and dry to avoid discomfort.
Can You Tell How Many Puppies A Dog Will Have By Their Nipples
Dog Nipples Do Not Predict Litter Size
Telling a dogs litter size by the number of nipples she has is an old belief. This simply isnt true. Typically, large or small, male or female, dogs have eight to 10 nipples. This number can vary, but this is the average count.
Also Check: German Shepherd Philippines Price
Different Types Of German Shepherds
With such a wonderful breed and huge popularity worldwide, breeding German Shepherds has been very well-received and well-executed over the last decades. Being a people-pleaser, a lot of people wondering how to breed german shepherds have decided to put the emphasis on a particular aspect, or difference, that they do enjoy seeing in their specimens.
This is why, more than most other dog breeds, German Shepherd Dogs have given birth to so many variations. Some a purpose-based, but many others are appearance-focused
What Determines How Many Puppies A German Shepherd Can Have
Several things will determine how many puppies a female German Shepherd dog can have. Typically, contributors for the number of puppies in your dogs litter should be no reason for concern. Most factors revolve around the general size of your dog, which is no reason for medical concern.
Contributors to your German Shepherds litter size include:
- Health and general care during the gestation period
- Her starting weight
- Diet
- Starting age
Above all, the most vital factor is the health of your German Shepherd dog and the health of your puppies. When you learn that your German Shepherd is pregnant, visit your veterinarian for an immediate check-up and follow their advice for the remainder of the pregnancy.
To achieve the healthiest puppies, follow the advice of your veterinarian and give your GSD love.
Diet
Diet is an important consideration in the breeding process. According to the American Kennel Club, a female German Shepherds diet makes a major impact on how many puppies she will birth.
A healthy diet is critical during each stage of the female German Shepherds pregnancy. Giving your German Shepherd sufficient nutrients before, during, and after birth ensures you provide the best outcome possible.
Increase the amount of food you add to your dogs diet slowly through the pregnancy. Begin with a gradual increase and then slowly add more as the pregnancy continues until you have finally increased her additional feeding amount to around 25 percent.
Genetics
Living Conditions
Age
Recommended Reading: German Shepherd Head Drawing
Why Does A Measuring A Dogs Bite Force Matter
Aside from being an interesting statistic, the measurement of a dogs bite force is actually significant to veterinary medicine. Proper measurement of a dogs bite force is used to determine the overall health and diagnose issues with a dogs masticatory system.
The masticatory system is looked at as one whole unit which is composed of a dogs teeth and its supporting structures, the jaws, as well as the joints and muscles that are involved both directly and indirectly in mastication .
In addition to this, measuring a dogs bite force is used in veterinary medicine to develop implants such as plates and screws to fix bone fractures. Its also used to evaluate restorative materials that must be able to withstand the extreme pressures being exerted by the dog biting down on them.
Measurement also relevant to the assessment of different dog foods, chew toys, and dental treats.
A dogs bite force, along with the intention behind a dogs bite also matters for purposes of public health and safety, so lets now take a look at how the damage that a dogs bite inflicts upon a person is used in determining exactly how dangerous a particular dog is.
The Best Dog Food For German Shepherds
The best diet for your German Shepherd is one that is rich in high-quality animal protein with plenty of healthy fats and the optimal balance of essential nutrients. To help you choose the best dog food for your furry companion, weve compiled a list of our top picks in dry and wet foods for puppies and for adult dogs.
Like other Blue Buffalo recipes, this formula for large-breed puppies puts high-quality animal protein first and includes LifeSource Bits to provide a rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for balanced nutrition.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large-Breed Puppy Recipe
Another great option for puppies, this dry dog food is packed with deboned chicken, healthy grains, and antioxidant-rich ingredients.
Featuring farm-raised chicken, whole-grain brown rice, and sweet potatoes, this formula is designed to support your German Shepherds health and wellness.
Nutro Natural Choice Large-Breed Adult Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
For large breeds like German Shepherds, this recipe boasts ingredients like real chicken and brown rice to help support a dogs whole health.
Donât Miss: Why Are German Shepherds So Smart
Also Check: What Colors Do German Shepherds Come In
The American Kennel Club
Locating a good breeder is one of the main considerations. The breeder should be very knowledgeable about the breed and the American Kennel Club .
The American Kennel Club tries to regulate all registered puppy breeders, but because there are so many breeders, it is difficult to watch over all of them. But if you know what you are looking for and ask the breeder a lot of questions, you will soon know whether you have found a good breeder.
How Many Litters Can A German Shepherd Have
It is possible for a female German shepherd to have two to three litters a year. They go into heat at about two years old, and unlike humans, they dont experience menopause. Assuming an average lifespan of a German shepherd is 10 years , they could have up to 24 litters in their lifetime.
Nonetheless, it is highly unlikely for your dog to reach anywhere near that number. Senior female dogs and dogs that are overbred are at greater risk of losing litters due to their mental and physical health conditions.
The older your female German shepherd gets, the more fragile her ovum and eggs become, and the more complications that could occur for both the dam and the puppies. This means your dogs chances of producing another litter become smaller with age, and the quality of puppies that they produce becomes lesser than before. For this reason, most breed clubs recommend retiring a female when they reach eight years of age.
What about male German shepherds?
While there is no age limit to how long a male dog can sire a litter, bear in mind that the quality of their sperm decreases too over time. Just like the female, it is recommended that you should stop breeding a male dog around seven to eight years of age to maintain the litters quality.
You May Like: Rott Vs Pitbull Fight
Where To Get A German Shepherd Puppy
Never buy a German Shepherd puppy from a pet store or from an Internet site that will ship a pup to you without asking you any questions beyond “Check or charge?” These puppies come from puppy mills. They will not only be sickly, but they will have missed a major learning period for basic training and will be harder to train and more uncontrollable.
The best German Shepherd puppies come from breeders, animal shelters, or rescuers. German Shepherds are most often abandoned when they are six months old and past the cute stage.
Is It True That Dogs Age Seven Years For Every Human Year
No. Erika Mansourian, a writer for the American Kennel Club website, says that this belief dates back to the 1950s. She says it may have stemmed from an observation that dogs lived to be 10 years old, while humans lived to be 70 on average.
It is true that dogs age much faster than humans, but the extent and speed of this process depends on many factors.
The AKC notes that a dogs aging process depends on its size. Larger dogs tend to age faster and have shorter life expectancies than do smaller dogs.
The AKC divides dogs into four size categories:
- Small
- Medium
- Large
- Giant
An adult male German Shepherd usually weighs between 66 and 88 pounds, and an adult female generally weighs between 49 and 73 pounds. German Shepherds thus fall into the Large category.
Large dogs actually age 24 years during their first two years! Then, until they reach the age of five, they age four years for every year.
Large dogs that are over five years old then generally age five or six years for every year, and a German Shepherd that lives to be 14 is comparable to a human of 88.
Also Check: Why Do German Shepherds Whine So Much