Meet The German Shepherd Cross Golden Retriever Parents Breed
When you combine two striking breeds, the Golden Retriever and the German Shepherd, the result can vary greatly in appearance. Plus, you can be sure that the dog will be obedient and intelligent and will make an excellent pet.
Because each breed has unique needs, challenges and expectations, it is important to consider both breeds in the mix when creating a designer breed. This is especially true for such distinct characteristics as the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd.
Now with that being said, let’s find out a little more about the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mixed breed’s parents.
Characteristics Of The Golden Shepherd
Due to the fact that these dogs are not a purebred breed, it can be a little difficult to predict their characteristics. This is especially true for the Golden Shepherds that are first generation. However, we can make predictions based on past Golden Shepherd litters.
A Golden Shepherd puppy will normally cost you anywhere between $500 $800 depending on the breeder. Always buy from a reputable breeder and never from puppy mills.
Appearance
A Golden Shepherd can weigh anywhere between 35 and 55 lbs and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall. Males are normally bigger than females and it will, of course, depend on which parent your Golden Shepherd pup takes after more.
These dogs are medium to large size and normally have a German Shepherd body and a Golden Retriever head. However, German Shepherd puppies often have floppy ears when they are born, eventually becoming erect as they grow, so there is a chance your puppy will have these ears too.
The best thing to do when buying your Golden Shepherd is to take a look at the parent breeds, because this will give you the best indication as to what your Golden Shepherd pup may look like when theyre fully grown.
Coat
The Golden Shepherd coat is normally long, because both the Golden Retriever and the German Shepherd have long coats. However, German Shepherds can also have short coats, so there is a chance your Golden Shepherd will inherit this coat too.
Color
Temperament
Lifespan
Things To Know When Owning A Golden Shepherd:
Taking on the responsibility of becoming the proud new owner of a Golden Shepherd isnt a decision you should make lightly. While theyre certainly an appealing mixed breed, they will still require plenty of attention from their owner to thrive. Here are a few things to consider before you make your choice.
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German Shepherd Golden Retriever Dogs Will Need Moderate Grooming To Stay Happy And Healthy
The German shepherd golden retreivers weather resistant coat means he only needs bathing once every few months.
All dogs need to be routinely brushed and groomed in order to maintain their health and appearance, and the German shepherd golden retriever dog is no exception. He will need routine brushing with a dematting comb and deshedding brush at least once a week. During shedding season, he may need to be brushed once a day.
Your German shepherd golden retriever will only need to be bathed once every three to four months unless he gets especially dirty, and he will need his ears cleaned and kept free of debris and moisture often to prevent ear infections.
His nails should be trimmed regularly to keep them from splitting or cracking and his teeth should be brushed at least once a day with a quality dog toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste to encourage optimine dental health and prevent potential tooth decay.
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Big Dog Means Lots Of Exercises
Golden Shepherds require lots of attention and care and arent for the lazy at heart.
Plan for many daily walks. Theyre big dogs that love to have fun, but if there is any leftover energy, it may turn destructive.
Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise.
Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. You dont want to overdo it!
As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Aim for ¾ to 1½ cups of food split into two meals each day.
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Living Conditions: Living Conditions Are Best For A German Shepherd Mix Golden Retriever
There is no definitive answer for what the best living condition is for a German Shepherd Mix Golden Retriever. However, some considerations that should be taken into account include the size of the space, whether or not the dog will have access to a yard or outdoor space, and how much exercise the dog will get. If the dog lives in an apartment, it is important to find a building with a large enough lobby or common area where the dog can play and run. If the dog has access to a yard, it is important to provide plenty of shade and water in the summer months. Dogs that do not get enough exercise are more likely to become destructive in their home environment.
German Shepherd: Loyal And Tough
This breed is one of the most recognizable dogs in the world. Its the 2nd most popular in the US.
When Germany chose the German Shepherd as their official dog and Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz created a club to regulate standards, their popularity really boomed! This happened at the end of the 1800s.
Its no wonder breeders often use these dogs to create mixes, like the Golden Shepherd or the Siberian Shepherd.
They started out as sheepherders in Germany. Owners valued them more for their excellent work ethic versus their companionship. Fortunately, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is appreciated for both of these reasons.
Today, German Shepherds are often used with police and the military. They are also known for having the strongest bite. Owners love them for their sharp looks, intelligence, and hard-working skills.
Golden Retriever & German Shepherd Mixes are no exception to this, and, like their parents, also make great workers.
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Common Health Issues Of German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
No breed is perfect and the popularity of a certain breed only means that there will be more dogs with problems. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is one of the most popular dog breeds in the US, with over 30 years ranking first among all breeds registered with the American Kennel Club.
The most common problem in German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is hip dysplasia, which can cause lameness and arthritis later on. If possible, buy from a good breeder who has tested their animals for hip problems. You can also have your own dog tested when it is old enough.
A 10-year study conducted by the University of Glasgow in Scotland revealed that 42% of all purebred dogs have at least one problem with their joints, with German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix being the highest among the breeds studied. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is generally a healthy breed, but there are some conditions from either side of the family that may develop. Some of these include:
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus formally known as bloat where the stomach becomes extremely enlarged and twisted, this is fatal if not treated immediately owners should know the symptoms and be prepared for an emergency situation or know what signs indicate this condition so they can seek medical attention at once if their pet exhibits them.
The causes for this life-threatening problem are still unknown but it mostly affects deep-chested dogs like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix.
Food & Diet Requirements
A high-quality dog food appropriate to the age of your Golden Shepherd will help make sure your puppy receives all the nutrition they need from a young age. Its a good idea to speak to the breeder of your puppy and find out what food they have been using. If you can, try and obtain the same brand to minimize any chance of an upset tummy when you bring them home. Once your puppy has settled into their new surroundings, you can gradually change their diet to the brand of your choice if you prefer.
Some Golden Retrievers do tend to put on weight easily, so you might find that your Golden Shepherd inherits this trait. If so, make sure you only feed them the recommended daily amount of their food, cut down on any treats, and increase their exercise if you can.
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Caring For Your German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
Although these arent high maintenance breeds, there are still some things to remember when caring for your dog on a daily basis. Food, exercise, training, and grooming requirements are of particular importance.
Your dog will need around 1,500 calories of food every day to stay healthy, according to the American Kennel Club.
This equates to around three cups of high-quality dog food per day. You will want to make sure that you are choosing a food that is meeting the nutritional requirements of these breeds.
As a puppy, you should aim to feed in smaller amounts four times per day, then reduce down to two meals per day as an adult. The purpose of feeding smaller meals is to prevent stretching your dogs stomach while it matures.
Your puppy will reach adulthood between the ages of 18 and 24 months.
The Golden Shepherd: What To Expect In This Hybrid Dog
When properly bred, a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix should be an intelligent and athletic dog, that is both sociable and easy to train.
Both German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are loyal companions who are eager to please, so you can expect these same qualities in a hybrid.
Keep in mind that this hybrid breed is acknowledged by the International Designer Canine Registry because it is a mixture of breeds. However, it is not registered with any of the Kennel Clubs.
The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix has been registered with the International Designer Canine Registry since 2009.
These are also complementary breeds because theyre both active and athletic, with similar sizes and lifespans. This is also a popular hybrid mix because it combines two extremely popular dog breeds for families.
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Is Golden Shepherd Mix The Right Dog For You
If you lead an active lifestyle and can offer lots of time, attention, and affection to your dog, then the Golden Shepherd just may be the dog for you!
Designer dogs and mix puppies are becoming more and more popular today. Coming from two of the country’s most popular and respected purebreds, the Golden Shepherd makes for an excellent mixbreed dog that can make for a great family pet.
With some training and love, Golden Shepherd dogs can also make great guide dogs, service dogs, guard dogs, or watch dogs. They make for excellent companion dogs, and can offer a lot of joy and activity to your life. It is recommended that dog owners of this breed have a fully fenced in backyard or access to a large park for the dog to roam in.
On average, a Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix puppy will cost you anywhere from $500 to $800 to purchase from a breeder. This is relatively affordable for a designer dog bred from such popular purebreds. A simple Google search can set you out on your path to your pup. Websites such as Pet Finder are also great resources. Dog owners should be aware of the prevalence of non-reputable ‘backyard’ breeders. A reputable breeder will always screen for and make you fully aware of any potential health issues a dog may have.
It is always a great idea to check your local shelter if you are unable to afford this dog or are looking to adopt.
German Shepherd Golden Retriever Health Problems
A German Shepherd Retriever Mix dog lives an average of 10 to 14 years if taken care of properly. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older.
This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of:
Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. There is also an allergy called Canine Atopic Dermatitis which is common to Golden Retrievers. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens.
- Von Willebrands Disease
Von Willebrands Disease is the most common acquired blood clotting disorders in canines. Dog owners will only notice the symptoms when its already severe. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Its significant to take care of your dog to narrow the chances of occurring.
- Joint Dysplasia
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The Story Behind Golden Shepherds
It is unknown how long the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix has been around, but it started getting attention as a designer breed in 2009.
Breeders who were trying to create the crossbreed wanted to minimize the health problems that tend to affect each of the individual parent breeds, as well as create a hybrid that combines the best qualities of German shepherds and Golden retrievers.
Since the Golden Shepherd is a mixed breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club .
But the International Designer Canine Registry , American Canine Hybrid Club , and Designer Breed Registry recognize this hybrid.
Lets discuss the purebred parents of this fido so that we can clearly understand how this crossbreed would turn out.
Debate Of Health Difference Between Purebred And Mixed Breed
You might have heard before that a mix is healthier than a purebred. Many do debates whether this is true.
On the one hand, many think its easier to control against diseases when the kind of dogs used is limited. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog.
Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen.
Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. Remember to work together to ensure you grab a healthy German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix.
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Golden Shepherd Mixed Dog Breed Pictures
Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn’t necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog. And you can find an awesome crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment.
Some dogs are simply easier than others they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
Is A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix Good With Children And Other Pets
Golden shepherds are generally good with children and other pets, though they need to be socialized from a young age so they can become accustomed to creatures smaller than they are. Keep in mind, however, that these are large, energetic dogs, and children and pets who are fearful may be overwhelmed.
Remember that just like dogs need to be socialized with children, children also need to be socialized with dogs. They need to be taught how to play gently with dogs and pet them without tugging on ears or tails. Children should never be left unsupervised with a dog, nor should they attempt to take any dogs food away when it is eating. Some dogs feel very vulnerable at mealtimes, and they may lash out if they feel threatened while eating.
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What Is A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
The Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix is a crossbreed which started to become popular around 10 years ago.
They are most commonly a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred German Shepherd. However you can sometimes find second-generation mixes which are two Golden Retriever German Shepherds bred together, but this is still quite rare.
The German Shepherd was originally bred as a herding dog. They are now used as working dogs in pretty much every field a dog could be used in favored as police and army dogs for their intelligence and bravery.
Golden Retrievers were bred as a gundog to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. They are still used for this but thanks to the endless amounts of love and affection they have to give, they are also extremely popular as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and companion animals.
So what does this mean for the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix?
You can expect a high-energy dog that requires a decent amount of attention when it comes to grooming. They are loyal, loving, and make great family pets.
Whilst they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, both parent breeds are.