German Shepherd Dog Training

german shepherd lab mix size
Can anyone identify the mix breeds in this puppy for me?

I got a puppy from the shelter today, and they think its a Rottweiler mix. Someone else suggested it was a lab mix of some kind, maybe german shepherd. Heres some pics…

What a cute little angel-face she has. Kudos to you for saving such a sweet puppy. She definately looks like a Rottweiler and by her current size and the size of her paws I would say she’s going to get pretty big (probably 70-80 lbs). As far as her temperment goes, most mixed breads tend to have a pretty even temperment. Just make sure that she gets all her necessary shots as soon as possible and start socializing her with other dogs and people, people, people! Make sure she gets comfortable around other people by taking her places with crowds, take her to different peoples’ house-friends, family, etc and if you can try taking her to work with you. Get her exposed to as many situations as possible so later on she won’t have a negative reaction to any situation she’s put in. Good luck!

Is Hip Dysplasia Affecting Your Dog?

Some people often just assume their dog is getting old when he starts to limp or when there is some stiffness evident. Often enough this is Hip Dysplasia and you should take action to help eliminate discomfort and pain as soon as possible. It is most common in large dogs but is also found in smaller breeds from time to time.

What is canine hip dysplasia?

The area affected is in and around the dog’s hips and it’s called Hip Dysplasia. In a nutshell, sometimes the hips are not shaped properly which can leave the dog prone to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia in dogs can occur in puppies from as young as 5 months, but the ensuing arthritis in the hips generally doesn’t strike Spot until he is middle aged.

Dog breeds susceptible to hip dysplasia.

Some breeds of dogs are well known for being genetically susceptible to hip dysplasia. Mixed breed dogs can also suffer from hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices has seen a decline in hip dysplasia numbers, but these dogs still have a higher than average chance of having dysplasia:
* Rottweilers.
* Labs and retrievers.
* German shepherds.
* Great Danes.
* Mastiffs.
* Saint Bernards.
* Dobermans.

Hip arthritis can also be found in and medium sized dogs as well.

Signs of hip dysplasia include:

* early morning stiffness.
* behavioural changes and sometimes personality changes too.
* awkwardness or clumsy steps.
* unable to exercise as much as before.
* disinterest in fetching.
* problems getting up from lying down or sitting.
* limping, favoring one or both back legs, or stiff or unusual gait.
* opting to sleep away from others.
* pain when back leg is extended.
* discomfort or sensitivity when lower back or back legs are prodded.
* can’t or won’t jump into the car anymore.

Hip dysplasia treatments.

Dog arthritis can be treated in a myriad of ways icluding dog medicines, dog supplements and even aids to help make Rover happy again. One of the most popular options is glucosamine, which has been incredibly successful in aiding humans with osteoarthritis. Dog supplements containing glucosamine chondroitin have become one of the first treatment options. Don’t underestimate a good night’s sleep and other orthopedic aids as handy comfort providers such as special dog beds and ramps etc. For further information on glucosamine, treatments and aids click here.

Weight Management.

The most prominent element to affect or enhance hip dysplasia is the dog’s weight. The more your dog weighs, the more strain is being placed on those hips. Keeping your dog in his healthy weight range could save him from immense pain and suffering down the track.

For further information on treatments and resources for the dog suffering from hip dysplasia click here.

About the Author

Author Billy Baker has decades of experience with many breeds of dogs and has provided more information on Dog Health and Hip Dysplasia In Dogs.

Tobi the Terror