German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix Facts
Welcome to the captivating world of the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, a delightful hybrid that combines the intelligence and versatility of the German Shepherd with the friendly and loyal nature of the Golden Retriever. This unique crossbreed, often called the Golden Shepherd, boasts a winning combination of traits that make it an ideal companion for families, working roles, and various lifestyles.
In this guide, we will explore the characteristics, temperament, and care requirements that define the enchanting German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, offering valuable insights for those considering this exceptional canine companion.
German Shepherd Mixes
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3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a German Shepherd Golden Retriever
- Requires a Ton of Grooming
These dogs shed all the time because of both parent breeds’ thick and waterproof coats. Golden Retrievers are known for getting their hair matted, so getting them trimmed and brushed regularly is required. Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs.
2. Needs Lots of Activity and Training
If you don’t like doing physical activities too much, this breed is not for you. These dogs need 45 – 90 minutes of exercise per day. These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future.
3. Over Protectiveness
A German Shepherd mixed with a Golden Retriever can be overly protective of their owner. This said trait may result in unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years.
Note: Is the Golden Shepherd right for you? Check out our full list of 30+ Golden Retriever mix breed types. Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like?
3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix
- Loving and Loyal Character
German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs possess loving and devoted personalities. These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent, which prevents the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are affectionate and a great companion
2. Guarding Ability
Golden Retrievers mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed, German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. This is also why most of them don’t get sick very often.
3. Environmental Adjustments
With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time, particularly if you move frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you.
Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Golden Retriever and German Shepherd Mix
Weight | 60 lbs to 80 lbs |
Height | 20 inches to 25 inches |
Coat Type | Long and dense, thick and double coat, straight, curly |
Coat Color | Golden, black, cream, white, tan, yellow |
Amount of Shedding | Constant shedding (have more massive shedding twice a year) |
Temperament | Intelligent, Loyal with family, very lively and adaptive |
These dogs’ parents are naturally large dogs, and it’s natural for this mixed breed to grow big as well. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retrievers mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs, while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches.
This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their usual colors are golden, black, cream, white, tan, and yellow, with straight or curly hair depending on their parents’ genes. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick, and doubled, resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd’s features include deep almond-shaped eyes, a long and firm wedge-shaped nose, and short or long droopy ears similar to the Golden Retriever.
These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging, but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to.
The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed breed.
- American Canin Hybrid Club (ACHC)
- International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
- Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA)
German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix Puppies For Sale
Finding a highly-rated breeder of this dog breed can be challenging since they require careful and high-maintenance breeding. The price of a dog depends on the size, coat type, and color, health, and temperament, and the puppies range from $500 to $800– some go up to $1500 per dog.
A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. Here’s what you need to ask from the breeder:
- Paperwork related to the dog
- Health Certificates for a Dog
- Written Contract
- Dog’s Registration
The breeder must provide official information about the dog. Ask for and check the dog’s health records before you agree to buy it. If everything checks out, a contract that shows a clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Don’t forget to register your dog upon purchase.
Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into private dog rescues, as some dogs may be transported there.
Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd
German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. These dogs also shed constantly, so a vacuum cleaner is handy for cleaning your dog’s sheds around the room. Here are some products that you might need for this pet.
- Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats
This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins, which help to untangle and shed loose fur. It features bolts long enough to reach deeper areas of your dog’s fur. This mixed breed features a double coat that requires constant brushing, making this item a must-have for all dog owners.
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Nail clippers prevent health and safety issues. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs.
- CET Pet Toothbrush: Dog Toothbrush
The teeth of German Shepherd Golden Retrievers need to be taken care of, but this often gets neglected since cleaning them requires loads of tolerance. However, be reminded that weekly toothbrushing is recommended to keep your dog’s oral health in good condition. Providing chew items to your dog can further maintain teeth and gums’ health.
Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas.
You must monitor your dog’s paws for wounds and cuts regularly. If your dog doesn’t appear to be walking properly, they must’ve injured themselves.
This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls.
Golden Retrievers mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area (for better vision), around the anus (for hygiene), and the chin (for easy eating). You can use food treats to reward your dog’s calm and smooth performance during the trimming.
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 to 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:
- Allergies
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 in Golden Retrievers. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s disease is the most commonly acquired blood clotting disorder in canines. Dog owners will only notice the symptoms when they’re already severe. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. It’s important to take care of your dog to narrow the chances of occurring.
- Joint Dysplasia
In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Improper nutrition can influence a dog’s likelihood of acquiring joint dysplasia, as can too much exercise – or too little.
- Bloating
Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans; however, it is deadly in dogs. The dog’s stomach gets twisted and is filled with gas when this happens causing breathing problems and interruption in blood flow. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home.
You can improve your dog’s health by reviewing the results of genetic testing and consulting a veterinarian regularly. Learning some first aid for this breed of dog can also help. Awareness of these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with the German Shepherd breed will result in their proper care. Routinely monitoring your dog’s movements will give you a better analysis of your dog’s health.
Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Some ideas can also be found in Wellness Core Dog Food, Dog For Dog Food, or Nutra Thrive dog food supplements.
Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins, too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. If your pup could speak, they’d told you they didn’t want it in their bowls.
You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Don’t forget to seek help from your vet before making any significant change in your dog’s diet.
German Shepherd Mixed With Golden Retriever
German Shepherds crossed with Golden Retriever dogs are lively dogs that love activities that can help them stay healthy. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs.
Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. Protein in a dog’s diet is necessary for building and repairing tissues. It is also the building block of their muscles. Veterinarians recommend 22% of the protein in a dog’s daily diet, including pure protein like eggs, fish, and meat.
Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being, and too little creates skin problems.
Now, let’s talk about water as it makes up 70-80 percent of a dog’s lean body mass. Water also helps in regulating a dog’s body temperature and in digesting fats and carbohydrates. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Don’t forget to give your German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dog plenty of water after playing and exercising.
Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since they vary depending on their age and body size.
Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs.
- Soy
- Corn
- Sugar
- Flour
German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix Exercise Requirements
Both parent breeds of this dog have lots of energy. These dogs won’t stay settled and silent in a corner. This breed needs an environment where they can play around and get outdoor exercise.
German Shepherd crossed with Golden Retriever dogs loves swimming very much; however, do not assume that they know how to swim. Moreover, be sure to wash your dog with fresh water after swimming to keep them from possible irritations.
This dog would need at least 60 to 90 minutes of activities per day to help them develop the muscular body that they need. Having a backyard where your dog can do daily outdoor activities is preferred since it can play around and be their active selves without being overly worried about them.
On the other hand, do not let them have too much exercise as German Shepherd genes are prone to hip problems. It’s better to start building up their stamina and muscles needed for activities while they’re young. Once they are old enough, you can gradually build up the complexity of their tasks so they won’t get bored. Keep their activities leveled to their age energy. Moderation is the key for German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs.
Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix Dog Training
Like most types of dogs, they need to learn how to behave in and out of the house as well as around other people.
This dog breed is one of the most intelligent canines today, and they are also eager to please people. They are adaptive, so training them won’t be troublesome, and learning would be an easy and fun activity for them. Most dogs are very good with habits; you can easily condition their routines. They won’t need to be told once they have learned a new command or trick.
On the other hand, because it is easy, it can be the cause of boredom for them. Do not neglect and let this trait of smart thinking go to waste. It’s better to give these dogs different types of mental stimulation that enhance their intelligence. Try giving them various puzzles while training and exercising.
Positive reinforcement can motivate this breed better compared to adverse and hurtful punishments. Golden Retriever German Shepherd dogs love pleasing their owner during training because they know it makes the owner happy. Food treats and praises are good to reward and encourage your dog. However, do not rely too much on food treats since these dogs have an extraordinary level of intelligence.
Golden Retriever And German Shepherd Mix Dogs and Families
This dog breed, especially the trained ones, is good with people and is particularly fond of children. Although they are big, they can be gentle, mild, and playful when in the right mood.
Likewise, teach the children to be sensitive with this dog breed. Do not permit them to pull their ears and tails or hit the dogs. Dogs may misbehave when not properly treated. They tend to be aggressive when provoked by sudden actions whether they are intentional or not.
German Shepherds mixed with Golden Retriever dogs get along well with other pets if raised together. They tend to be nervous around other dogs and need to be exposed early and regularly to act suitably around other animals. If the dog is feeling stressed or tensed, do not force them to play with other dogs and wait patiently for them to adjust.
Being an excellent family dog is one of the best characteristics that this breed is known for. They love offering protection and support to their owners and family members. Like most dogs, they defend the people they feel most connected to. These dogs have a people-pleasing attitude, which helps them get along with their families and strangers. Do not forget to give these German Shepherd crossed with Golden Retriever dogs the love and affection they deserve.
FAQs – German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
1. What does a Golden Retriever and German Shepherd mix look like?
A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, often known as the Golden Shepherd, typically exhibits a blend of features from both parent breeds. They may have a well-proportioned body, a dense double coat, and a face that combines the characteristic expressions of both the intelligent German Shepherd and the friendly Golden Retriever.
2. How big do Golden Shepherds get?
Golden Shepherds are considered large to medium-sized dogs. On average, they weigh between 55 to 85 pounds and stand around 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. The exact size can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health.
3. Golden Retriever Chow German Shepherd Mix
The Golden Retriever Chow German Shepherd Mix is a unique combination of three distinct breeds. This mix can result in a dog with a variety of traits from each parent, including the friendly nature of the Golden Retriever, the intelligence of the German Shepherd, and the distinctive appearance of the Chow Chow.
4. American Foxhound German Shepherd Mix
The American Foxhound German Shepherd Mix is a crossbreed between an American Foxhound and a German Shepherd. This mix may inherit traits from both breeds, including the Foxhound’s endurance and the German Shepherd’s intelligence. It’s essential to consider the characteristics of each parent breed when understanding the potential traits of this mix.
5. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need?
German Shepherds are highly energetic and intelligent dogs that require regular exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. On average, they benefit from at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Tailoring the exercise routine to the individual dog’s energy levels and age is crucial for a healthy and happy German Shepherd.
6. How big does a Golden Retriever get?
Golden Retrievers are large-sized dogs, with males typically weighing between 65 to 75 pounds and females ranging from 55 to 65 pounds. They stand about 23 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Keep in mind that individual variations can occur within the breed.
References:
- Holly, Vanessa L., et al. “Golden Retriever Cystic Uveal Disease: a Longitudinal Study of Iridociliary Cysts, Pigmentary Uveitis, and Pigmentary/Cystic Glaucoma over a Decade in Western Canada.” Veterinary Ophthalmology, vol. 19, no. 3, 29 June 2015, pp. 237–244., doi:10.1111/vop.12293.
- Biasato, I., et al. “Unusual Combination of Multiple Vascular Anomalies in a German Shepherd Puppy with Megaoesophagus.” Anatomia, Histologia, Embryologia, vol. 46, no. 2, 3 Jan. 2017, pp. 216–219., doi:10.1111/ahe.12260.
- Coile, D. Caroline. German Shepherds for Dummies. Hungry Minds, 2003.
- Bauer, Nona Kilgore. Golden Retrievers for Dummies. Hungry Minds, 2000
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Retriever
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd