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15 Dogs German Shepherds Get Along With

One of the most common queries among potential GSD owners is, do German Shepherds and some other breed get along? Most German Shepherds are perfectly fine with other dogs in their family, mainly if introductions occurred when the dogs were puppies. So let’s look at 15 dogs German Shepherds get along with:

1. Labs

German Shepherds get along very well with labs as long as they are adequately introduced and taught to get along.

Both German Shepherds and Labradors are good-natured, intelligent, friendly dogs, and both generally get along well with other pets, so they will naturally get along well together.

Labs and German Shepherds have playful and energetic personalities, which help them form a close bond. Don’t doubt these two will keep you on your toes.

2. Pitbulls

German Shepherds and Pit bulls get along well generally as they share some characteristics. Both breeds are loyal, brave, and headstrong.

It can take time for a German shepherd to warm up to other dogs, so you must introduce a GSD to a Pitbull in a calm manner. However, they will become friends eventually.

As German Shepherds are somewhat larger than Pitbulls, you don’t want your Pitbull to feel intimidated or threatened by your GSD. However, after a rocky introduction, you should find that these two breeds have what it takes to be a great match.

3. Rottweilers

German Shepherds and Rottweilers get along; one of the Rottweilers’ most popular companion choices is a German shepherd.

Both German Shepherds and Rottweilers are aloof, so it may take time for them to become friends, but the German Shepherd is not easily bullied, thanks to his natural confidence.

Both breeds are highly intelligent, active, and sporty, and they both are highly trainable. Be sure to make the introduction a calm and gradual experience.

Having good control over a German Shepherd should help you to have an overall handle over his interaction with a Rottweiler.

4. Beagles

German Shepherds and Beagles get along. Both dogs are brilliant, attention-seeking, and active. The Beagle is a highly intelligent dog with a goofy, fun-loving personality.

German Shepherds are a little more serious and reserved, so you want to ensure that you introduce these dogs properly.

These dogs should grow up together from puppyhood, as a puppy can be a pest to an older dog. Beagles could annoy a more senior German Shepherd with their goofy nature, so you may want to keep dogs apart if there’s a bit of an age gap.

It’s okay for dogs to have boundaries. It’s normal and instinctive. If one dog is annoying the other, it’s only fair that that dog is given a warning.

5. Chihuahuas

German Shepherds do get along with chihuahuas. However, as both have dominant and strong personalities, bringing them together can be challenging.

It’s best to introduce the two dogs to each other as puppies; otherwise, introduce them gradually and monitor their interactions to correct destructive behaviors.

German Shepherds and Chihuahuas can become friends. GSDs have laid-back personalities, whereas the Chihuahua is a stubborn, feisty little dog.

While chihuahuas tend to love their owners, they don’t tend to get along well with other pets. Both have dominant personalities; because of this, don’t expect to throw them into a room and become friends. Both dogs need the training to get along, and it’s not going to happen quickly, so hang in there!

6. Corgis

German Shepherds and Corgis get along naturally; both breeds share many personality traits: courageous, smart, loyal dogs.

Many people are surprised to discover that these two dogs get along so well, as the Corgi is much smaller by comparison, but both dogs are friendly and energetic.

You still need to supervise them. Both dogs like to play, so someone could get hurt if they start fighting or trying to exert their dominance.

7. Dobermans

German Shepherds and Dobermans get along, at least they can, if they are well-bred, trained, and socialized from an early age.

However, you cannot expect to put these dogs together and leave them alone. Both dogs are dominant and territorial, so you must reduce competition-provoking situations.

Your German Shepherd and your Doberman getting along largely depend on their innate and individual personalities. Unfortunately, these dogs display same-sex aggression, so it’s best to get dogs of opposite sexes.

Thankfully, both dogs are trainable and intelligent, so as long as you train them and provide them with lots of mental stimulation, they should become the best of buds.

8. Alaskan Malamutes

German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes get along, especially if they are properly introduced to each other and well-supervised. Both dogs share many characteristics. Both are loyal, brave, hardworking, and energetic.

Both dog breeds adore their families, but they are wary of strangers and other dogs. To keep these dogs happy together, they need consistent training and lots of strenuous exercises.

9. Bernese Mountain Dogs

German Shepherds and Bernese Mountain dogs can get along if they are trained to do so. However, there is some same-sex aggression with Bernese Mountain dogs, so it’s best to raise them with the opposite gender. Bernese Mountain dogs are not as active or as trainable as German Shepherds.

Introducing your Bernese Mountain dog to your German Shepherd should be a calm experience. Bernese Mountain dogs tend to love their families but not so much with other pets, even other dogs. Their interactions shouldn’t be forced, but keep both dogs safe.

10. Border Collies

German Shepherds and Border Collies get along famously with each other; they have many qualities in common. Both dogs are large, hardworking breeds, and both are intelligent. In addition, they are both highly active, so they can play well together.

That said, Border Collies have some herding instincts; they are sheepdogs, after all, so you must step in immediately if playtime turns into a fight.

11. Boxers

German Shepherds and boxers get along. Both breeds enjoy play and exercise, they are big and strong, and a GSD can hold his own against a pushy Boxer. Boxers can be headstrong, but a highly-trained German Shepherd will be a good influence on your Boxer.

Many websites and organizations list Boxers as one of the most dangerous dogs in the United States; however, boxers can be dangerous if not properly trained. Otherwise, they can be an amazing companion and a great playmate for a German Shepherd.

12. Bulldogs

German Shepherds and Bulldogs get along. Bulldogs are often misunderstood, and some people think they are just fighters. This is not true. Bulldogs are loyal and affectionate and can make excellent companions for German Shepherds.

Some lines may not get along well, but they should become great buddies if you choose both dogs from a reputable breeder and train them to get along.

13. English Bulldogs

German Shepherds and English Bulldogs get along. English Bulldogs are very different from German Shepherds; as their name suggests, they are “bull” headed and don’t listen to commands.

In addition, they have a reputation for fighting, so they need to be trained to get along with your German Shepherd.

It’s possible that an English bulldog would annoy a German Shepherd, but if they are raised together as puppies, they should be great friends.

14. Yorkies

German Shepherds and Yorkies get along. You may think that GSDs and Yorkies are unlikely to be friends if you judge by appearance. But below the exterior differences, both dogs originate from the same species. Both come from Canis Lupus Familiaris or the ancient wolf.

Knowing that fact doesn’t guarantee that these dogs will become good friends, but it helps. Many factors contribute to how well a German Shepherd will get on with a Yorkie, and your input is vital. You must ensure that both dogs know that there is room for both of them.

It’s best to introduce them early; as the Yorkshire terrier is much smaller, and you need to ensure that he doesn’t get hurt during play. In addition, you must teach both dogs to respect each other.

15. Siberian Husky

German Shepherds and Siberian huskies get along very well. The husky is playful and somewhat mischievous, which can be ideal for your active German Shepherd.

Huskies are more outgoing than GSDs. However, huskies are on the gentler side, which can smooth some of the GSD’s rough edges.

The outgoing husky can help an aloof German Shepherd come out of his shell. Also, both are excellent family dogs, which allows them to settle into an active household.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, German Shepherds can get along with many different dog breeds. They can befriend intelligent, hardworking, and lazy, less intelligent dogs like the Bernese Mountain dog. When it comes to being this dog’s friend, size, breed, and personality traits are not as important as trust; ultimately, this dog must trust his friends.

You must try to keep your GSD away from aggressive dogs. You can help your GSD forge friendships with other dogs by socializing them early, spending ample time training them, and exposing them often. It’s the responsible thing to do, and it will keep your German Shepherd safe.

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/15-dogs-german-shepherds-get-along-with/

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Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Apples?

German Shepherds spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates for the first four weeks of their lives. In this neonatal stage, German Shepherd puppies get all the nutrients they need from their mother’s milk. At around four weeks, the breeder can introduce solids into their diet by offering them small well-mashed beef pieces. By about eight weeks, German Shepherds should be fully weaned.

German shepherd puppies can eat apples and a wide range of fruits and vegetables, as long as they are only offered occasionally. GS puppies need a nutritionally complete diet to match their age and activity levels, which they mostly get from high-quality, commercial dog food.

Life with a German Shepherd puppy is pretty hectic. They are always on the go and need lots of protein and fat to give them the energy to be active and healthy.

A high-quality diet will help them develop a healthy immune system, support strong bone growth, and develop healthy eyes, skin, and teeth.

We will discuss the diet they need at each growth stage and look at the “human foods” they can eat as treats, including apples.

Nutrition For German Shepherd Puppies

German shepherd puppies get all their nutrition from their mother’s milk for the first four weeks of their lives. Their mother’s milk provides them with the antibodies they need for their health and immunity.

The first milk they receive is called colostrum, and it is rich in proteins and antibodies. At four weeks old comes the weaning stage, where they begin eating solids.

The breeder can introduce mashed protein like beef, including a nutritionally-balanced diet to suit their age and size.

You can also offer your puppy vegetables along with their commercial feed, as long as you don’t give them human leftovers or foods containing sugar, salt, and other seasonings. Let’s look at your German Shepherd puppy’s nutritional needs month by month:

One Month Old

When your GS puppy is about three to four weeks old, he can begin tasting new foods and getting used to new flavors. Wet puppy food is the best choice for your GS puppy until he is about six to eight weeks old, then you can start feeding him dry food.

From eight weeks and beyond, GSDs should be weaned entirely, and they should eat solid food. Your puppy will also need fresh water instead of milk.

He will also need a special puppy feed, and the best one for German Shepherds is breed-specific, although this may not be available in some locations. In which case, your vet can develop a suitable food plan for your puppy.

Two Months Old

When your GS puppy is two months old, you can gradually decrease the moistening of your pet’s dry food, as he must get used to eating his food completely dry.

GS puppies generally eat four or five times a day from two to four months, but you must stick to feeding your puppy at specific times. German Shepherd puppies’ foods should be richer in fats, calories, calcium, and protein than food for adult German Shepherds.

Beyond Four Months Old

You should begin reducing the number of meals to three times a day for your puppy between the ages of four and six months of age. However, you should increase the quantity of the food and offer an extra few minutes to their eating time.

You can start mixing fresh foods like meat, fish, and veggies in with their dry feed. Learn what the forbidden foods are and void giving them to your dog.

For example, some GS owners choose to give their dogs raw meat, but it’s safer to cook the meat first. Avoid giving your dog raw meaty bones as this could harm his teeth.

Begin lessening the amount of wet food you give your puppy, as excess amounts can cause plaque development and other dental issues.

After Six Months Old

When your GS puppy is six months old, you should reduce his daily food intake to twice a day. However, you can increase the food portions and feeding time accordingly.

You should discuss a tailored diet to suit your German shepherd puppy, accounting for his age, size, and lifestyle. At this stage, you can give your GS puppy shatter-proof bones to gnaw on. These bones strengthen your pup’s gums and teeth.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Apples?

Yes, German shepherd puppies can eat apples; they are a safe and inexpensive treat. However, be sure to remove all of the seeds and cut them into slices. You don’t need to remove the peel. Apples contain the following health benefits for dogs:

FIBER – Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers support nutrient absorption, and insoluble fibers promote gut health.

PHYTOCHEMICALS – Phytochemicals like quercetins, catechins, chlorogenic acid, and anthocyanins boost immunity including cancer protection, healthy aging, and cardiovascular and eye health.

VITAMIN C – Vitamin C will boost your pet’s immune system, offering a good defense against bacteria, toxins, viruses, and allergic reactions.

DENTAL HEALTH – Chewing on apple slices will help keep your GSD’s teeth clean as long as you don’t rely on it as your pet’s only means of dental care.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Bananas?

Yes, German shepherd puppies can eat bananas as long as you remove the peel, it’s a safe treat, and it has many nutritional benefits for your puppy:

FIBER – Fiber consumption is essential for gastrointestinal health; it aids digestion and supports healthy gut bacteria.

VITAMIN B6 – Vitamin B6 balances electrolytes in your dog’s body, and it is essential for heart health. It also plays a crucial role in protein synthesis.

VITAMIN C – Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant; it boosts your puppy’s immune system and helps to fight allergies. It also works alongside Vitamin E to help maintain your dog’s coat and skin.

MAGNESIUM – Magnesium directly impacts your dog’s muscular health and is needed for muscle contraction and regeneration.

POTASSIUM – Potassium helps the body regulate fluids and, like magnesium, aids proper muscle health.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Carrots?

Yes, German shepherds can eat carrots; they are safe and benefit your GSD’s health. Carrots are an excellent addition to your dog’s diet, both cooked and raw.

Carrots aid canine dental health and are high in fiber and antioxidants like beta-carotene. Beta-carotene changes to Vitamin A inside the body, and it is crucial for proper eye, bone, and reproductive health. It also strengthens the immune system.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Boiled Eggs?

Yes, German Shepherd puppies can eat boiled eggs. They are an excellent treat, especially for owners who prefer to feed their pets fresh food rather than kibble.

Eggs are highly nutritious for dogs and a rich source of Vitamin A and a wide range of B Vitamins. Eggs are also an ideal source of selenium and iron.

Technically speaking, dogs can eat raw and cooked eggs. However, it is not safe to feed raw or undercooked eggs as they could contain salmonella or E.coli. Make sure you give cooked eggs to your German Shepherd.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Drink Cow’s Milk?

Most German shepherds are lactose intolerant, and ingesting milk could cause vomiting, loose stools, and diarrhea. It’s perfectly safe to offer milk alternatives like lactose-free milk, almond milk, cashew milk, etc.

Dairy products like yogurt and cheese should be off-limits to your German Shepherd as well.

When puppies mature and leave their mothers, they lose an essential enzyme known as lactase. Lactase helps break down the sugary substance lactose contained in milk products.

So, you must avoid giving milk or any dairy product to your dog as it could cause numerous distressing side effects.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Peanut Butter?

Yes, German Shepherds can eat peanut butter, as long as you choose the right one, as some brands contain toxic additives to dogs. Since nut butters are high in calories and fats, only offer the spread in moderation.

However, it can be an ideal source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that are vital to your GS puppy’s health.

The benefits of feeding peanut butter to your German Shepherd go beyond physical health; peanut butter can help your dog remain calm when it comes to bath time, nail clipping, a visit to the vet. It can also help with separation anxiety.

Can German Shepherd Puppies Eat Lamb Bones?

There is contradictory information about feeding bones to dogs. Many say bones are great for dogs, while others say bones can be dangerous for dogs.

However, bones, including lamb bones, can be safe for your German Shepherd puppy. Avoid cooked bones, especially those from table scraps, as they can easily splinter or break and cause your dog illness or injury.

As with all bones, there is always a risk of choking. However, if you follow some straightforward rules, your GS puppy can enjoy his bone safely:

Supervise chewing

Discard gnawed-down bones

Do not give bones to a GSD who has had corrective dental work done

Do not give bones with marrow to a GSD who gets pancreatitis

Give a bone after a meal

Avoid pork or rib bones

Only allow your GSD to chew for ten to fifteen minutes at a time

Put the bones in the fridge when not in use and discard them after three days to reduce the chances of contamination

Final Thoughts

German shepherd puppies can indeed eat apples along with other human foods, as long as they are an occasional treat, as they need a vet-approved nutritionally complete dog food. However, when you offer your German Shepherd any of the foods mentioned above, keep an eye on him to ensure he doesn’t develop any bad reactions.

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/german-shepherd-puppies-eat-apples/

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Are Male Or Female German Shepherds More Affectionate?

The German Shepherd, also known as Alsatian in Great Britain, is a medium to a large dog breed, with a long muzzle, erect, pointy ears, and a square head. These dogs are also pretty muscular. German Shepherds tend to appear aloof, and some people find them intimidating. However, once you get to know this breed, you will find them easy-going, approachable, and loyal to their family.

Generally, female german shepherds are more affectionate with children in a family, whereas male german shepherds are better suited and bond better with a single person. However, it depends on the dog; some owners say that their males are more loving and fun, while females are more standoffish.

If you wonder which GSD gender suits your family best, let’s discuss their personalities in more detail. Males and females have different instincts, which will undoubtedly affect their personalities.

Also, different “lines” have different temperaments. You must consider which line and gender are better suited for your situation.

German Shepherd Temperament

German Shepherds are exceptionally intelligent, hard-working, and loyal. Many GSD owners praise this breed for its unmatched bravery and devotion to their families.

This dog breed is highly-trainable and excels at anything you train them to do. You will find German Shepherds in assistance and guide work, drug detection, search and rescue, obedience competitions, but mostly they are excellent companion dogs.

With all those great traits, it’s no wonder the German Shepherd is one of the top ten most treasured breeds in the United States.

These dogs can be aloof and suspicious of strangers; this side of their personality, coupled with their high intelligence, makes them excellent watchdogs. If you wish to have a calm dog around all sorts of people and situations, you must socialize them from day one.

The German Shepherd does struggle with separation anxiety, so this is not the breed for you if you plan to travel a lot for long periods. When left alone, they become bored and stressed, which leads them to express this in destructive ways.

German Shepherd Personality Differences

Both male and female German Shepherds are lovable, loyal, and intelligent companions. While there are exceptions to the norm, there are upsides and downsides associated with each gender:

Male GSD Personality Traits

Larger in size

More territorial

More aggressive

More Dominant

Tend to mark their territory by urination

More protective of people and property

Better as a first dog

Female GSD personality Traits

Live longer

Better with children

Sweeter and friendlier

Not as possessive or protective

Less dominant and territorial

Better with other dogs

Have a higher tolerance for strangers

They can be very protective of their litter

Both genders will bark to alert their family of other dogs along their street or in their yards. Both have an intimidating bark and are large, athletic dogs – a feature that tends to scare outsiders.

As you can see from their personality traits, males are more dominant than females, which can heighten the protectiveness of their humans – this makes them better suited for protective roles without children.

On the other hand, female GSDS are friendlier, gentler, and sweeter than their male counterparts; they are not as dominant or as protective as males, but they will bark to alert you to danger.

In addition, females are much more patient with children, so females are a better match for families with children.

The personality of a German Shepherd largely depends upon its breeding line. Some breeders produce working lines of German Shepherds, and these dogs have high-drive natures.

They are intense and dominant. Working lines are ideal for competitive protection canine sports. However, they are not suitable as companion pets for a family.

Other breeders produce show lines, and these dogs conform to show ring standards. Show dogs have softer temperaments than their working counterparts.

Yet they tend to be skittish, hyperactive, and untrainable as show breeders tend to focus on looks more than temperament.

Will German Shepherds Bond With One Person?

Yes, German Shepherds will bond with one person; they are known as “one-man dogs.” German Shepherds are fiercely loyal and loving towards their owners, be they in a family setting or with one caretaker.

This dog will undoubtedly develop a close relationship with all of “his people.”

Consistent training is the only way to ensure your German Shepherd will develop into a well-adjusted, well-mannered dog.

The best type of training is continuous reward-based, positive training. This ensures your dog will bond with you if you live alone or within a family.

Male German Shepherds are better suited to life with a single person, whereas females are ideal companions for families, as they are very gentle and patient with children.

You must ensure that you have the time to raise a German Shepherd dog because they experience severe separation anxiety if left by themselves too often.

What Are The Ways German Shepherd Dogs Show Affection Towards Their Owners?

German Shepherds show affection towards their owners in many non-verbal ways, they probably show you how much they love you a thousand times a day, but as they can’t speak, it may go unnoticed.

Let’s discuss ten ways German Shepherds show their owners how much they care:

1. Licking

Dogs kiss by licking, and they learn this during puppyhood. Young puppies lick their mothers’ on her mouth to indicate hunger. Therefore, they learn pretty early on that licking is a way to signal that they want to be cared for.

As they grow, licking becomes a way of communicating lots of information about their owner and how they feel about you. You may want to establish boundaries with your GSD, but be aware that kissing means they simply love you.

2. They Stay Close To You

German Shepherds are naturally protective, so don’t be shocked if your GSD follows you everywhere you go. When your German Shepherd bonds with you, he feels happiest and safest when he’s as close to you as possible, and they associate your presence with positive feelings.

3. They Lean On You

German Shepherds lean on you for numerous reasons. If your adult GSD does it to you, it can feel quite intense due to its large size.

Leaning can be your dog’s way of telling he wants something that only you can provide. It could also mean he feels insecure.

Typically, it means he just wants to be close to you. Nevertheless, learning indicates that your GSD trusts you, and it’s his way of snuggling up to you.

4. They Let You Hug Them

Some studies reveal that hugging causes anxiety in dogs. While some dogs may not enjoy receiving hugs, some owners attest that their puppies like hugs.

At worst, dogs tolerate hugs from the people they trust. When your GSD lets you hug hum, look for signs of distress.

If you don’t see any, your dog is okay with hugs.

5. They Snuggle With You

German shepherds like to be as close to the people they love as possible; cuddling or snuggling is one of the most apparent signs that your GSD is showing you love.

6. They Ask For Rubs

German Shepherds are not shy about asking for rubs. If you miss their signs, they will demand rubs by pawing at your hand or sitting and looking up at you to ensure they get your attention.

7. They Want To Play With You

Count it as an honor when a German Shepherd selects you as his playmate. It means that they really love you and want to have fun with you.

8. They Are Always Happy To See You

When you form a bond with a German Shepherd, he will get very excited to see you after being apart from you for a while. He may jump on you and lick you to show you how much he missed you.

9. They Look You In The Eyes

When dogs and their humans make eye contact, it releases oxytocin in both parties. This chemical is responsible for feelings of comfort in both humans and dogs.

10. They Raise Their Eyebrows At You

Dogs raise their eyebrows at you to signal they are happy to see you. So, if you see your GSD raise his eyebrow at you, he’s not questioning you but rather showing you affection.

What Creates A Bond Between German Shepherd And Owner?

German Shepherds can create a bond with people at any time of their lives, but the optimum time to bond with a GSD is between the ages of 4 weeks old to 12 weeks old; their exposure to the world at this stage will have a lasting effect on how they relate to their family and strangers.

Creating a firm bind with your GSD requires you to meet his needs and understand his innate behavior.

Consistent positive reinforcement training will ensure your GSD forms a close bond with you. Your dog must respect you and see you as his leader, but you must never punish him or shout at him; always remain calm.

Final Thoughts

Both male and female German Shepherds are fantastic companion dogs and can readily suit a family or single person. Females may have more patience with children and are automatically a better fit for a family, but either dog can adapt to their given situation with time, patience, and training.

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/male-female-gsd-more-affectionate/

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5 Reasons Why German Shepards Attack

German Shepherds generally make excellent companion dogs. They are exceptionally trainable, loving, and loyal towards their family, albeit with some aggressive tendencies. The German Shepherd is not an ideal dog for a novice owner; you must know how to train your GSD to bring out his best qualities.

Resource guarding is the main reason why german shepherds attack. This behavior can cause GSDs to attack any person (including their owner) or animal if they think a person is trying to take their food or toy or if someone tries to remove them from their resting spot. This trait is typical with GSD puppies generally.

There are other reasons why a GSD would attack, which will be examined in this article. Whatever the reason for this undesirable behavior, it’s essential to get to the root of the issue and take steps to keep it under control. A lack of socialization and training contributes significantly to an aggressive canine.

Do German Shepherds Attack For No Reason?

German Shepherds will not attack you or anybody else for no reason. If you have a German Shepherds puppy who seems to attack you unexpectedly, many factors can be the cause.

These include genetic, environmental, and biological. However, you can train your aggressive puppy more easily than an adult GSD. Adult GSDs are bigger and more muscular, and if they do attack, it can be more dangerous.

Unfortunately, German Shepherds have a reputation of attacking suddenly. These sudden aggressive outbursts are a sign of aggressive traits passed through the bloodlines.

Nowadays, selective breeding programs and better education for owners have helped eliminate most of these traits from purebred German Shepherds, although some still have this trait.

Let’s explore other reasons for GSD attacks:

1. Resource Guarding

Your German Shepherd may feel like protecting his resources and get confrontational and attack another dog or person who gets too close.

If you bring another puppy into your home, don’t allow it to access your older dog’s toys, space, food dishes, bed, etc., as this can annoy the older dog and cause him to attack.

2. Lack Of Education Among Owners

Occasionally, you will see headlines saying “German Shepherd Kills Owner.” It is rare for a German Shepherd to attack, let alone kill his owner.

When this happens, it is through the ignorance of the owner. The lack of education among GSD owners has played a major role in causing attacks.

You must never stare directly into your GSD’s eyes, pet his head with a hand from descended from above or walk straight up to him. German Shepherds, and all dogs, perceive these gestures as threats and will cause them to attack.

3. Confinement And Boredom

German Shepherds are a high-energy breed requiring frequent exercise. These dogs were bred as herding dogs originally, and naturally, they have tons of energy to burn.

It’s never wise to confine these dogs in cramped spaces or tether them, as boredom can ensure and territorial behaviors will cause them to attack anyone near them.

4. Dog-On-Dog Aggression

It’s common for dogs to bite each other, and it usually stems from them being territorial. Sometimes, a GSD attacks other dogs out of excitement or energy rather than aggression.

These dogs are more prone to being overly aroused amid casual play and even an initial meeting.

When this occurs, your GSD may show aggressive behavior as a protective measure or as a way to calm the other dog. Such behavior may feature growling, nipping, lunging, and even biting.

5. Unknown Medical Concerns

Some owners may not take their GSD to the vet when their dog is aggressive, but this is what you should do first, particularly if your GSD attacks another dog in the home.

If your usually sweet-mannered German Shepherd suddenly attacks another person or dog, then a vet visit is in order.

A well-trained GSD that becomes suddenly angry may have a health issue that you may not notice. It could be something minor, like a torn nail to something serious requiring immediate action.

What Are The Warning Signs Of An Aggressive GSD?

Signs of aggressive behavior from a German Shepherd include:

Blocking the path of people or other dogs

Demanding attention; barging through doors

Guarding resources

Stopped eating when approached

Mounting legs or other dogs

Positioning himself between you and another person or dog

Lunging

Approaching another dog from the side

Putting his head on another dog’s back or shoulder

Growling when approached

Posturing

Bearing teeth

Direct eye contact

Raised hackles

Some owners see some of the behaviors above as cute when their dog is being aggressive. However, you must also decipher between aggression and a dog playing with other dogs.

If you are uncertain about your dog being aggressive, it’s best to seek professional advice. Numerous nuances cannot all be covered in a single article.

Much of the confusion lies within the type of aggression ( fear, territorial, predatory, sexually dominant, food, etc.). Even socialization can appear aggressive (some growling, jumping, biting, barking, and so on).

First, however, you must see the signs of aggression. Assertiveness, dominance, and fear can all result in aggression and are the most apparent and dangerous forms.

Additionally, intact males are most like to be dominant aggressive. Therefore, unless you are breeding this dog, you must have him neutered. This will help reduce dominant behavior and keep the unwanted population down.

How Do You Control Aggression In A German Shepherd?

You must first determine the cause of the aggression before tackling the underlying issue.

You must train a German Shepherd not to be aggressive, although that can be challenging.

Training must consist of socialization with other people and pets. You must also teach your GSD obedience commands to increase your level of control. Deterrence measures might be necessary to prevent more aggression.

Your GSD puppy should learn relatively quickly and be receptive to training. However, an older GSD may need more time and support from a vet or professional dog behaviorist.

Before you begin training, you must get some supplies in together; a deterrence collar, an ultrasonic or whistle with a sharp note, treats, and toys as rewards.

You must set aside fifteen minutes every day for the next few weeks, and adopting a positive attitude towards training is vital, as dogs pick up on negative energy. The more consistent the training, the sooner you should achieve results.

Let’s discuss three methods to teach your dog to have self-discipline and control:

1. The Deterrence Method

Your puppy will need a safe spot to retreat, as dogs can get overwhelmed and need alone time. You can use his bed or crate as his safe space.

Whenever your GSD becomes aggressive, barking, growling, etc., blow your whistle. Your GSD will soon learn to connect being aggressive with a negative consequence.

You can also use a deterrence collar. A remote control releases a spray of citronella, which deters biting. Using it frequently should prevent any further acts of aggression.

You mustn’t get your GSD too worked up when playing with him, and young children must not tease him too much.

Remember not to laugh during training; you must take it seriously as this can confuse you. So talk to everyone in the home and ensure that all agree with how training should go.

2. The Routine Method

Big active dogs like the GSD need plenty of exercises as their biting can result from pent-up energy. So make sure to take your German Shepherd out for a long walk or extra walks. Play games with him to tire him out as a tired dog is a calmer dog.

If he starts getting aggressive, pull out a toy and play tug of war to redirect his aggression safely. This will only work if his aggression is out of wanting attention. If a tug of war game doesn’t hold his attention, you may want to ignore him.

You must constantly reward him for calm play, give him affection, praise and treats. Don’t anger your GSD by punishing him when he’s aggressive, as this will make him angrier. German Shepherds respond better to positive reinforcement.

3. The Introductions Method

Sign your GSD for group obedience classes as early as you can. This will get him to socialize with other people and pets. He will also learn what type of conduct is and isn’t tolerable.

Teach him basic commands like ‘down’ and ‘stay.’ This should increase your control and establish your position as pack leader. This should limit his aggression and make him more submissive.

When your German Shepherd places himself in front of you when you stop and chat with other people, it’s because he thinks it’s his job to protect you.

So you should place yourself in front, that way he can relax and understand that that’s your job. This should prevent initial hostility when strangers approach.

When he meets new people and animals, stay close and watch how he behaves. If you see signs of hostility like his tail dropping or tension, ask them to stay back to respect his boundaries.

Offer verbal praise and the occasional treat only if he remains calm when meeting strangers. Positive reinforcement helps him associate being well-behaved with receiving good things.

Final Thoughts

German Shepherds are naturally aggressive dogs; they are protective of their people and possessions; however, outward aggression towards others is evidence that consistent training and socialization is lacking.

Be sure to understand dog body language and note when your GSD becomes aggressive to help you stop the behavior.

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/german-shepards-attack/

[petdogfaq]

Do Brittany Spaniels Shed A Lot? 6 Things You Need To Know

There is nothing worse than a dog that sheds its fur all over your furniture, especially when you have had a long day at work and the last thing you want to do is clean up after your Britany spaniel when you get home.

Brittany spaniels are moderately shedding dogs, but you can prevent stray hairs from your dog from landing on your carpet by doing a weekly brushing. Brittany spaniels are easy to groom, but brushing their coats every week keeps their coat in good condition. You only need to bathe your Brittany when necessary.

Minimal grooming is one of the perks of owning a Brittany Spaniel, but the little you do helps a lot. We will expand more on their coats and how often they shed, and how to groom them.

Are Brittany Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

Brittany’s are not hypoallergenic, and they can cause allergies in some instances. Truthfully, no dog is hypoallergenic; even dogs that don’t shed at all can be allergenic as the issue isn’t their hair but rather their flaky skin.

With that said, some breeds are more suitable for owners who suffer from allergies, and these breeds produce little dander and shed minimally.

Shedding is an issue because flaky skin collects in the hair, so the more a dog sheds, the more he will spread immune triggers around the home.

Brittany’s are not the best option for someone who is searching for a hypoallergenic breed. However, there are better suited-breeds, such as hybrid, designer dog breeds like the Yorkipoo and Bernedoodle.

Some purebreds can be hypoallergenic, like the poodle, Yorkshire terrier, and Bichon Frise.

Brittany Spaniels shed evenly year-round, there may be some increase during spring, but they shed continuously throughout the year.

Shedding (or molting) is expected in healthy dogs. They shed because the old hair ceases growth and falls out to make way for the new hair.

Shedding is nothing to be worried about. However, dog hairs on your clothes, upholstery, and floors are unsightly.

You can easily keep shedding at bay with weekly brushing to remove your dog’s old fur before it falls off. However, certain factors like poor diet, stress, stress, fleas and some health issues can cause more shedding than usual.

If you have any concerns about your Brittany’s coat, you should bring it up with your veterinarian.

You can’t stop your dog from shedding, and there is no quick fix; however, grooming is your best defense. Thankfully grooming is neither complicated nor time-consuming with a Brittany Spaniel as they are healthy and biddable dogs, requiring little regarding treatment or extra care.

How To Groom A Brittany Spaniel

Brittany Spaniels are easy to groom because they have a single-layered, wavy coat. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep their coat healthy and to stop their fur dropping on your clothes, floors, and upholstery.

Some owners brush daily; it’s a judgment call each owner must make. Bathing is also essential for times when your dog’s coat gets dirty, like if he has jumped in the mud, etc.

Brushing Your Brittany Spaniel

Brushing removes old, loose hair and dirt from the fur. It distributes its natural oils to lubricate the hair, making it shine. It cuts down on cleaning your home. It strengthens the connection between you and your Brittany Spaniel, and it allows you an opportunity to check for lumps and bumps that may require veterinary attention.

To brush your Brittany, you must take the following steps:

It’s best to brush your dog outdoors or in a designated part of your home specifically for brushing pet hair to prevent dog hairs in your living area

Brush your dog’s hair with a pin brush going in the hair’s growth direction

Then use a slicker brush to detangle and clean the feathering on his coat

If the hair is knotted, begin brushing from the bottom of each hair strand and brush out to the end, removing knots as you go

Work upwards until you can brush easily from the roots to the tip

Smooth out your dog’s coat in the direction of the growth using a natural bristle brush

 Bathing Your Brittany Spaniel

For times when you must bathe your Brittany Spaniel, you must gather all your supplies in advance to washing him. A wet dog and no towels are a recipe for disaster!

Brush your dog’s coat before you get him wet. This will also remove knots or mats in his feathers. Be sure to protect your pet’s inner ears from water and his eyes from soap.

You can use a cotton ball in each ear’s opening, and you can apply ophthalmic ointment to his eyes; the ointment is available at a pet store, vet, or groomer.

Encourage your Brittany to get into the tub and reward him when he does. Wet him with lukewarm water and massage a mild dog shampoo into his fur, starting from his neck then working towards the tail.

Please do the same with his chest and belly, under his back legs, and below his tail. Use a cloth to wash your dog’s face and a clean one to remove suds, do not lather his face.

To kill fleas on your Brittany, wet and lather him thoroughly, starting with his neck to prevent fleas from leaving his body and traveling to his ears to hide. Insecticidal shampoo isn’t necessary; all you need to do is leave on regular dog shampoo for around ten minutes to drown the fleas.

Shampoo residue can leave your dog’s fur sticky and irritate his skin, so be sure to rinse him thoroughly. Run your hands all over his body to ensure that you removed all the soap, which will feel slimy and leave bubbles on your hands if still there.

Be mindful that soap often hides in your dog’s armpits, groin, and between the ribs, so pay special attention to those regions.

When your dog’s coat is squeezed of excess water, gently pat it down dry as much as you can with a towel. Then praise and reward your dog with a treat before you gently let him go.

It’s always a good idea to put a collar on your dog to stop from running and rubbing himself on your furniture and furnishings – if you’re outdoors, you don’t want him to leap straight into the dirt. You can allow your Brittany’s fur to air dry or speed things up with a hairdryer set on cool.

Trimming Your Brittany’s Feet, Neck, And Ears

Brittany Spaniels benefit from trimming their feet, neck, ears, among other areas, to remove loose hairs. Your local breed club can inform you of grooming workshops or locate someone who can teach you. For now, you can find out here how to trim your Brittany Spaniel and improve his appearance.

Trimming The Feet

Long hair between your dog’s toes can be trimmed to prevent it from collecting debris like plant matter and stones. Here’s how to trim your Brittany’s feet:

Use straight sheared to trim the hair beneath the foot.

Use a slicker brush to brush hair between toes and on top of the foot against the growth. Use thinning or straight shears to trim the hair to a neat short length on top of the foot.

Comb the fur on the back of the pastern against the grain and trim it to 1/2 inches.

The feathers on your Brittany’s back legs should reach halfway to the hocks, and the feathers on the front legs should be around 2 to 4 inches use thinning shears. Toward the bottom of the leg, trim the feathers to about an inch.

The feathering on your Brittany’s underside should be only 1 or 2 inches below the elbow and trimmed with thinning shears.

Trimming The Neck

Some dogs grow a lot of hair on their necks, and if it’s wavy or curly, it can look particularly thick. For a tidier look, trim the fur on the front and sides of your Brittany’s neck from the ears to above the sternum, using clippers or scissors. The neck is a tricky area, so it’s best to have a breeder or groomer demonstrate how.

The most straightforward trim consists of removing long hair from the back of your dog’s ears and side of the neck, using clippers with a number 10 blade or scissors. Trim in the direction of the hair’s growth.

Trimming The Ears

Brittany’s ears are long and floppy and can get a bit fuzzy looking if you don’t tidy them up from time to time. Use thinning shears to cut natural lines and carefully trim the outside edges of the ears. If your dog has lots of long fur in the underside of the ear flap, trim that also.

Final Thoughts

The Brittany Spaniel doesn’t shed a lot and doesn’t have significant blowouts. Nevertheless, he isn’t hypoallergenic and requires some maintenance to keep his fur healthy and prevent hair from falling on your clothes and floor.

Weekly brushing is essential and bathing when necessary. If you are not certain how to trim your dog, your breeder or local dog groomer will happily show you how.

Table Of Content

How To Groom A Brittany Spaniel

Are Brittany Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

How To Brush Your Brittany Spaniel

How To Bath Your Brittany Spaniel

How To Trim Your Brittany’s Feet, Neck, And Ears

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/do-brittany-spaniels-shed-a-lot/

[petdogfaq]

6 East To Follow Tips To Calm A Brittany Spaniels Down

Brittany dogs are like small children, they have tons of energy, and they will demand that you play with them all the time. Daily walks are not enough to satisfy these dogs’ need for activity. They want you to engage in playtime, or they are not happy.

Brittany spaniels are a high-energy dog breed, but they generally calm down as they approach adulthood, so just before they are 12 months old, however, only slightly. Hyperactivity is part of their nature throughout their entire lives. These dogs can calm down indoors, but they will need to let off steam outdoors.

If you own a rambunctious Brittany Spaniel, undoubtedly, you want to explore ways to help your dog calm down. In this article, let’s explore ways of assisting owners in coping with such a dog. To better understand Brittany Spaniel, it helps to get a clearer picture of their personality and their breeds’ purpose.

Are Brittany Spaniels Hyper?

The Brittany was initially bred as a hunting dog that originated in Brittany, France. It’s uncertain when this dog came to be, but the breed was immortalized in tapestries and paintings from the 17th century. Those artworks depict hunting scenes.

The Brittany Spaniel is also recorded in a hunting description from 1850 and written by Reverend Davies. His notes describe the breed as excellent retrievers and pointing dogs.

Brittany Spaniels are indeed a hyper breed. Their temperament is like that of a setter or pointer than a spaniel. They may have the appearance of a spaniel, but they have the spirit of a hunting dog. Hunting dogs have boisterous personalities, as it goes with the territory.

Brittany Spaniels desperately need an outlet for their energy. It would help if you took them out for long walks, hiking in the woods, and swimming. They need lots of engagement from their owners, as they thrive on the attention you give them.

An inactive lifestyle will only lead to excessive barking, hyperactivity, and destructive chewing. You must be sure that you can provide sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

Aside from providing enough exercise, you might also consider enrolling your Brittany Spaniel in obedience training, tracking, and agility.

How Do You Calm A Brittany Spaniel?

1. Don’t let him freely roam around your home

When you first bring your tiny buddy home, you must control his movements in your house. This means that you don’t allow him to wander around your house freely; he must understand that it is a privilege he must gradually earn.

Only when he is 100% housebroken, has learned all the rules, and is calm in your home can he have more liberty. Ensure that your home is puppy-proof, making sure that he is close to you at all times, even if that means keeping him on a leash.

If your dog isn’t housebroken, you need to keep him in a pen or crate when you’re busy and can’t interact with him.

2. Encourage calmness

You must instill both mental and physical calmness in your puppy. When you’re not with him, you must keep him safely confined to a pen or a crate.

Teach Yes and No. He must learn to walk nicely and wait at gates and doors rather than rushing through. It would be best if you taught him the Sit and Stay commands.

When your Brittany puppy disobeys your commands, correct him, however, gently. If you are too harsh with him, he will become more fearful and difficult, as these dogs are sensitive.

Ensure that you and your household are calm, and be mindful not to have loud music playing or the TV blaring

3. Using the reward system

You can use rewards such as a toy or treat as an incentive for your puppy to obey your commands. Brittany Spaniels are known to jump on people, bark, and chase other animals. Do not reward such behavior; instead, correct your dog; be firm but not harsh.

When your buddy displays good behavior such as standing still when you brush him, going to the bathroom in the right place, and treating guests politely, you must reward such behavior and offer praise. Offer a treat or a toy and lots of praise.

4. Provide daily opportunities for exercise and activity

It would be best to equip your new family member with an active lifestyle to channel their boundless energy. This dog breed is excitable, but they have many excellent traits that need nurturing to bring out their best.

You can get your Brittany Spaniel to calm down indoors eventually, but you must tire out your buddy. We are talking about at least two walks a day for about thirty minutes.

Other activities like swimming, running, hiking, and playing fetch will exhaust him so much that he is sure to be calm at home.

5. Practice early socialization

Brittany Spaniels can become excellent family pets that are polite and gentle with everyone, including other animals and strangers; however, they need early socialization.

Your Brittany puppy needs plenty of exposure to people, other dogs, unfamiliar sights, and noises from day one. This will nurture your dog’s softness without making him shy, fearful, and overall unbearable to live with.

You can bring your Britt to a local dog park; naturally, it will be hard at first. Your puppy will be very nervous. Initially, bring your dog to the park, and if he can only handle a few minutes at a time, allow it.

You can gradually increase your time at the park, use your leash to control your dog, and stop him from attacking people and other dogs.

Use treats to reward his good behavior, encouraging him to keep up the good work. Eventually, he will love the dog park and seeing people and other dogs.

6. Be the leader

You must command respect from your puppy from the day you bring him home. Your Brittany Spaniel must see you as the leader of the pack.

Dogs in the role of the alpha don’t enjoy being in charge; it causes them a lot of stress, they prefer to be followers. But they will take over if you don’t step up and take control.

You need to prove yourself as a calm, confident leader. You can show authority by walking into a room ahead of your dog, eating your meals before your dog, and generally showing your dog that he doesn’t come first. Your four-legged friend will be happier and more at peace because he has an owner he can trust and look up to.

Will My One Year Old Dog Ever Calm Down?

Will My One Year Old Dog Ever Calm Down

Many vets and dog behaviorists get this type of question regularly, with varying ages. If you’re new to this dog breed, you may expect your Brittany Spaniel to calm down when he is 12 months of age or whenever he reaches his full size – between 12 to 16 months.

A perfectly healthy Brittany Spaniel will reach physical maturity and meet all his physical milestones. However, mental maturity isn’t always guaranteed.

Brittany Spaniels are often hyperactive, playful, overly clingy, and struggle with social anxiety throughout their lives.

Many Britts seem to calm down only slightly with age, with some owners reporting a calmer dog by 10 or 11 months of age.

This doesn’t mean their dogs have mentally matured; it means that their dogs’ movements are more controlled and sophisticated. Your Brittany Spaniel won’t do so much romping but more deliberate jumping and running.

Knowing that this is a high-energy dog breed, as their owner, you must match their energy. An owner of such a vibrant dog must love the outdoors and enjoy running, jogging, hiking, and walking.

Exercise is essential, but discipline in the home is equally important. If you fail to gently and lovingly discipline your dog, he won’t listen to you in the long term.

He will be unpleasant, displaying unwanted behavior like barking, digging, chewing, jumping on people, etc.

If your Brittany Spaniel badly behaves at home, you need to start nipping it in the bud now. Please don’t be harsh with him; there is no need to shout or call him names.

When you catch your dog doing something wrong, say no firmly, clap your hands loudly to get his attention. If you usually give him treats, no more, he needs to know that treats are to be earned.

Final Thoughts

The Brittany Spaniel temperament is very like that of a hunting dog. This breed is intelligent, loving, playful, curious, loyal, and generally everything you would expect of a hunting dog. However, be aware that you will be kept busy.

Do not get a Brittany Spaniel expecting it to calm down at a certain age; they are biologically predisposed to being high-energy.

However, be intentional about bringing calm into your dogs’ life. Create a harmonious environment in your home, and make sure that you are providing sufficient exercise opportunities.

If you take the necessary steps to raise a balanced, polite, well-adjusted Brittany Spaniel, you will have a best friend who is excellent company outdoors and in your home.

Table Of Content

Are Brittany Spaniels Hyper?

How Do You Calm A Brittany Spaniel?

Will My One Year Old Dog Ever Calm Down?

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/what-age-do-brittany-spaniels-calm-down/

[petdogfaq]

What Happens When You Breed A Chocolate And Yellow Lab?

Black and brown Labs are melanistic colors. Their genes are on the brown locus. However, yellow Labradors rely on alleles found in the Extension locus, the purpose of which is to dampen black and brown genes.

Breeding a chocolate labrador with a yellow labrador can be complicated with unexpected results. There are six possibilities for offspring color combinations, and much depends on the parents’ genotype.

What Color Puppies Will A Chocolate And Yellow Lab Have?

As mentioned above, there are six different possibilities for litter color combinations:

All black puppies

All chocolate puppies

Yellow and black puppies

Yellow, chocolate, and black puppies

Yellow and chocolate puppies

Black and chocolate puppies

Labrador genetics is complicated, and people are often surprised by the color of the litter they have bred. Coat colors, like diseases, can remain unknown from one generation to the next.

Even for numerous generations if they carry the recessive gene. Let’s explore the different color possibilities based on the parents’ genotypes and discuss how to mate a chocolate Lab with a yellow Lab.

What is the reason for these six combinations? Have a closer look at the diagram to discover why? The yellow Lab possible genotypes are on the top and the brown genotypes down the left-hand side. Inside the diagram are the possible litter color combinations.

EEBB EEBBEEBB

EEBB Yellow Yellow Yellow

Black Choc Choc

lack Choc Cho

Black

EEBB Black Black Choc

Choc

There are three ways to be a yellow Lab and just two ways to be a chocolate Lab, as shown in the diagram. A chocolate Lab can either be Eebb or EEbb.

A yellow Labrador can be any one of three possible genotypes – eeBB, eeBb, eebb. Anytime two lowercase ee’s come together, they cancel out the three different possible color combinations of bee genes.

Upon studying all the possible combinations, you will see possibilities for all three colors in a litter from eeBb mated with Eebb.

If EEbb breeds with eeBB, all the puppies will be black because they have the dominant big B and one big E.

‘eee’ genes are powerful. These genes provide the genetic information that creates a yellow coat, and they can cancel out or influence the ‘bee’ genes that make black and chocolate. Each dog will inherit two ‘eee’ genes, one from each parent, and two kinds of ‘eee’ genes.

The big E (dominant gene doesn’t interfere with the ‘bee’ gene.

The little e (recessive gene) can mask or cancel out the ‘bee’ gene that could otherwise produce black or brown coats, and the result is a yellow dog.

How To Mate A Chocolate Lab With A Yellow Lab

When considering pairing a chocolate Lab with a yellow Lab, your primary concern must not be the color of the litter; you should aim to breed puppies for health and longevity.

The motto of a responsible dog breeder is “Breed to improve.” Responsible breeding means being able to evaluate the positive and negative points of your dogs before deciding to mate them. The ultimate goal of breeding is always to produce better quality pets.

Understand the commitment to raising a litter. In the first few weeks, the dam mostly takes care of her puppies’ needs, but things can go wrong, like a dam producing no milk, or one of the puppies gets sick, and so on.

In such cases, you must step up and support the dam and the puppies and provide for their needs. It’s a lot of work! If you know you can put the work in, and you have a chocolate female that you want to mate with a yellow male or vice versa, please consider the following steps:

How To Mate A Chocolate Lab With A Yellow Lab

Step 1 Select An Appropriate Mate

When deciding on a mating pair, you must first consider the sire and dam are registered with the AKC. If they are, you can register the offspring with the AKC.

When choosing a male for your dam, it’s essential to mate dogs that match well together. Choose a male Lab that will strengthen your females’ weaknesses and enhance her best qualities.

So, if your dam has a dull coat, find a mate with a good coat, ensuring that he comes from a dog line with good coats.

It’s crucial to seek the wisdom of other breeders, who can help you consider all the factors that determine your dog’s appearances and traits.

Two vital considerations when making your selection are health and temperament.

When it comes to health, Labs are subject to many hereditary illnesses. Some can be life restricting or, worse, fatal. The primary breeding goal is to produce offspring not affected by known genetic diseases prevalent in your breed.

Step 2 Know Your Genetics

A responsible breeder must have a decent grasp of genetics. Genetics will determine your future litters’ health, looks, temperament, and soundness.

Finding a mating pair, the appearance of the dogs must not be the only deciding factor. Instead, you must base your choice on understanding the animals’ genes and how they are inherited and expressed.

A dominant arrangement of inherited diseases requires just one anomalistic gene. It takes only one parent to be affected for the condition to manifest in successive generations.

Some conditions can be difficult to detect if the effects are mild and seem to skip generations.

A recessive arrangement of inherited diseases occurs when dogs possess two abnormal genes. A Lab with one normal and one mutant gene can be carriers. They can appear normal but pass the mutant gene to their puppies.

Defects in the chromosome structure and number can result in genetic diseases, producing severe defects. Dogs usually have 39 chromosomal pairs where genes are located.

Polygenic disorders arise from the collective function of many different genes. The precise number of genes and their unique functions are indeterminable.

Inheritable patterns can vary from one generation to the next. Polygenic inheritance often copies either recessive or dominant inheritance, leading to false conclusions about underlying genetic anomalies.

Step 3 – Finalize Stud Contract

When you have completed the essential health checks and selected a suitable mate for your dam, you must draw up a contract with the stud’s owner before breeding occurs.

The contractual agreement must be typed and printed; it should stipulate obligations and circumstances. Both parties should sign the contract, and each receives a copy.

The studs’ owner sets the fee and the type of payment. The male dogs’ owner might request a stud fee or a selection of one or more of the puppies.

The contract must state that the sire’s owner isn’t duty-bound to sign the AKC registration application before receiving the stud fee payment. The AKC cannot settle any disputes between the parties regarding contractual agreements and breeding arrangements.

Step 4 – Health Checks Before Breeding

If you expect good quality puppies, the parents should receive ongoing maintenance. Regular Veterinary care, genetic screening, pre-breeding tests, quality nutrition, and exercise are essential to produce healthy litters.

The female’s mental health needs attention as a well-adjusted female is likely to be a better mother than one with a hostile temperament.

The female will need a pre-breeding physical exam by a veterinarian about one month before breeding. Vaccinations must be up-to-date, and her vet must examine her for parasites and offer treatment if necessary.

Both the male and female should be checked for brucellosis, an infectious bacterial condition causing possible sterility and miscarriage in affected dogs.

Step 5 – Natural Breeding

An ethical breeder will not breed a female in her first heat to prevent imposing the pregnancy stresses on a young, still developing animal. It would be best if you also permitted enough time for recovery between pregnancies, so avoid breeding a female on consecutive heats.

Most dogs mate within the tenth and fourteenth day of the females’ reproductive cycle – if the female accepts her partner, mating every second day for a total of two to three matings is sufficient.

Natural breeding happens when the sire mounts the dam from behind. When pelvic thrusts cease, both dogs won’t part for up to half an hour; this is called a tie, during which a male might move until he is rear to rear with the female.

It would be best if you refrained from separating them during the tie as it can cause injury to one or both of the animals. Eventually, they will separate by themselves.

Step 6 – Artificial Insemination

When natural breeding proves to be problematic, artificial insemination is an alternative solution, and it is a straightforward procedure.

The AKC accepts the resulting offspring if insemination involved using fresh semen, frozen semen, and fresh extended semen, and as long as correct procedures are in place.

Final Thoughts

The science of Labrador genetics is undoubtedly a fascinating subject. As we can see with the chocolate and yellow Labrador, they can produce offspring of any of the six color combinations when paired.

However, a breeder’s primary focus is to improve the quality of their dogs and seek to produce healthy, well-adjusted puppies for future generations.

Make sure to provide a warm, dry, and calm whelping environment for your female when the time comes for her to birth her puppies.

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/breed-a-chocolate-and-yellow-lab/

[petdogfaq]

What Color Are Chocolate Labs At Birth? Fact Not Fiction

Labradors are immensely popular as pets due to their intelligence, gentle nature, and trainability – they are also very patient with children. Everyone can agree that all Labradors are adorable puppies. In recent years, brown Labs have increased in demand, with more people favoring puppies with chocolate coats.

Generally speaking, chocolate labradors are born entirely brown, varying slightly from light to dark. Their coats often lighten with age as their fur grows longer. Occasionally, brown puppies are born with tan markings over their eyes, chest, feet, and under their tail. 

The AKC cannot show chocolate-colored dogs featuring these markings in conformation classes. For these canines to be considered real chocolate labs, their nose, paws, pads, and eyes must be the same color as their coat. However, some fading on the nose is permitted.

It is worth noting that chocolate Labradors share most of the same physical and size traits as their black and yellow siblings; the only significant difference is their hue. This article will explore the history of the chocolate Labrador, Labrador genetics, and other heritable issues associated with their color.

Where Did Chocolate Labs Originate From?

Labradors originated in Newfoundland and were initially known as the St. John’s dog and Newfoundland dog. It’s believed that the Labrador Retriever came from crossing a French St. Hubert’s dog and a Greater Newfoundland dog.

When English fishermen migrated to Newfoundland, Canada, in the 1500s, they used Retriever dogs to help them catch fish and retrieve nets.

These dogs thrived on hard work, even working long hours, swimming in freezing waters. After a long day of hard toil, these dogs returned to the fishermen’s homes and played with their children, proving to be excellent pets as well as working companions.

The retriever was first noticed by the English gentry visiting Canada in the early 19th century. These noblemen returned to England with excellent specimens of the breed.

In 1807 a ship (called the Canton) intended for Poole, England, was transporting some St. John’s dogs for the Duke of Malmesbury as part of his breeding stock.

The Canton shipwrecked; however, two dogs, one black and one brown were discovered and believed to produce the Chesapeake Retriever. The recessive colors of chocolate and gold/yellow appeared in the early litters occasionally.

These recessive dogs were unwanted and considered as ‘off colors’; they were often culled. English breeders standardized the Labrador during the second half of the 19th century to include brown and yellow dogs. The AKC in the USA recognized the Labrador breed in 1917.

The popularity of the chocolate Labrador began to increase slightly in the 1920s and 1930s, as that color was considered fashionable.

The 1960s saw high demand for chocolate Labradors. In recent years, the appeal of the brown-coated Lab has declined due to some of the negative hereditary traits connected to the coat color.

How Is Labrador Coat Color Determined?

Genetics determines Labrador coat color; if you wish to breed chocolate Lab puppies, you must test the potential parents for genetically heritable colors.

Crossbreeding two chocolate Labradors results in an average of 73% brown offspring and 27% yellow/gold puppies.

A chocolate Labrador can still carry the genetic code for other colors. However, a reputable dog breeder will understand how genetics functions to select certain colors and prevent hereditary illnesses.

For a complete picture of how genetics works, a gene contains two alleles, one per parent that, when paired, creates a genotype, distinguishing a phenotype. In other words, genetic coding in the genotype manifests specific physical or behavioral characteristics.

Alleles are designated by a capital letter (for the dominant gene) and a lowercase letter (for the recessive gene). Tw0 dominant alleles create dominant traits, as is the case with black Labradors.

When a dominant allele is coupled with a recessive allele, the dominant trait can override the recessive or produce a mixed trait with its phenotype. Chocolate Labradors are an example of this.

Both chocolate and black Labs derive their color from a pigment called eumelanin. Labradors with high levels of eumelanin pigment have black coats.

If they have a little less, they will have brown coats. The B locus in a canine’s DNA produces the genetic instruction for black or brown coats.

The B locus is central to a pair of genes called B genes. One of the pair comes from the dam, the other from the sire. Capital B is a dominant gene, and lowercase b is a recessive gene.

The dominant black gene will always cancel out the brown gene. Only Labs with a matching pair of the b gene will look brown.

* BB produces a black Lab because he has two genes for a black coat.

* Bb creates a black Lab because the dominant B gene overrides the recessive b gene.

* bb produces brown Labradors and will provide the instruction for less eumelanin in the coat.

How Rare Is A Chocolate Labrador?

Chocolate Labradors have remained steadily popular throughout recent years. Nevertheless, the dominant black color means that the demand for chocolate labs remains limited, ensuring continued rarity within the breed.

Continual breeding of black dogs will only produce black offspring. If dogs with a Bb gene only mate with dogs with a BB gene, the b gene will carry on to future generations, never to be expressed.

Brown is a recessive trait, so both parents must carry it to produce brown offspring. Breeding litter from this shallow gene pool comes with some health risks.

While the gene for a chocolate coat is not bad for a dog’s well-being, issues arise when dogs are bred for color, not health.

Do Chocolate Labs Get Lighter?

Chocolate Labs usually keep the same brown shade their entire lives. Seasonal changes can bring about slight changes to your Labs coat.

Dogs experience molt to make way for new fur growth. After a blowout, the lighter undercoat will become exposed, combined with sun bleaching, it can produce what seems like a fairer coat.

You may notice your chocolate Labrador develop a fuller, thicker coat in the cold weather, which could make the coat appear darker.

Are Chocolate Labs Different Than Black Labs?

Brown-colored Labrador Retrievers have on average about 10% shorter lifespans than their black or yellow counterparts. They are also more likely to get ear infections and skin diseases than the other-colored Labs.

Are Chocolate Labs Different Than Black Labs

Aside from health, behavior is connected to coat color too. While it’s unclear that coat color is entirely to blame for certain behavioral traits.

Brown Labs contain different retinas to their black and yellow siblings. Retinal differences can contribute to some behavioral characteristics as observed in sighthounds like whippets and Grayhounds.

Even if the coat color doesn’t affect Labrador behavior, there is evidence to suggest it may affect how humans behave with them.

One study revealed that people who look at pictures of black and yellow dogs rate the dogs higher in emotional stability and agreeableness than brown dogs.

Labradors are famous for their high intelligence. However, chocolate Labs are considered far less intelligent. This should not be the case; if you notice that chocolate Labradors are not as smart as their black and yellow counterparts, this is irresponsible breeding.

Many chocolate breeding’s throughout America are irresponsible breedings. These “backyard” breeders have invested time and effort in achieving the chocolate coat color with no regard for health, intelligence, or temperament.

Intelligent, good-natured chocolate Labradors exist, although far less common than the other colors. It’s essential to find a knowledgeable, reputable breeder that cares about producing calmer, intelligent, well-rounded Labradors.

Are Chocolate Labradors Born With Blue Eyes?

This question is surprisingly popular, but yes, some chocolate Labradors are born with blue eyes; any dog breed can have virtually any eye color, much depends on genetics.

However, a Labrador with blue eyes indicates poor genetics. Labrador eye color should be brown in both black and yellow Labradors. Brown Labradors should have hazel or brown eyes.

Blue eyes on a chocolate Labrador is pretty, but it means unequivocally that this dog is not purebred.

When puppies are born, their eyes remain closed for 14 days, and at that stage, their eye color is blue until it changes to their permanent brown or hazel color.

When a chocolate Labrador is around the age of 4 to 4 weeks old, their eye color is more noticeable, and you should be able to predict their actual color.

Final Thoughts

What color are chocolate Labs at birth? We now know that they are born entirely brown, which remains consistent throughout their life. Some are born with markings on different body parts.

Unfortunately, these dogs were considered undesirable for a long time, but equally deliberate and irresponsible overbreeding of the chocolate Labrador has caused so many problems for the breed.

The future of the chocolate labrador seems to be improving steadily, with more reputable breeders choosing to produce Labradors for health, intelligence, and temperament rather than color. Chocolate Labradors are generally wonderful pets as they are friendly, confident, and playful.

Table Of Content

Do Chocolate Labs Get Lighter?

How Rare Is A Chocolate Labrador?

How Is Labrador Coat Color Determined?

Where Did Chocolate Labs Originate From?

Are Chocolate Labradors Born With Blue Eyes?

Are Chocolate Labs Different Than Black Labs?

from Pet Dog FAQ https://www.petdogfaq.com/what-color-are-chocolate-labs-at-birth/

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