Mystery Canine Respiratory Infection Update

Regis Regal, top AKC German Shepherd breeders, have been monitoring the concerning “Mystery Canine Respiratory Infection”. This infection has been causing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing in dogs. It has been spreading rapidly among the canine population, leading to growing concerns among dog owners and breeders. The exact origin and transmission of this infection are still unknown, making it challenging for experts to develop effective treatments and preventive measures. However, researchers are working diligently to study the virus and find ways to control its spread.

What is this Mystery Canine Infection & Symptoms?

While veterinary professionals are still currently investigating this mystery illness, they are calling the pathogen a “funky bacterium”. Owners should monitor signs of a persistent cough while symptoms could include coughing, fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, labored breathing, and discharge from the eyes or nose. If not treated, it can worsen quickly and progress to severe pneumonia.

What to do if You Suspect Your Dog Has this Illness?

If you notice a persistent cough, it is best to go see your primary veterinarian to get your dog evaluated. Your veterinarian can work on a course of treatment or refer more severe cases to an emergency veterinarian. Currently there is no clear treatment or vaccines available. Since veterinary teams see patients who are contagious and those who are immunocompromised, they take extra precautions with our patients to avoid the risk of exposure. With this illness circulating, it is more important than ever for dogs to be up-to-date on their vaccines and wellness exams.

Precautions that Dog Owners Should Take at this Time

The illness is very contagious so the best way to protect your dog is to avoid highly populated areas with exposure to other dogs.
Limit visits to boarding facilities, doggy day care, dog parks, grooming business, and training establishments.
Do not expose your dog to chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.
Stay up to date with vaccinations.
If traveling, try to enlist the help of a trusted sitter or boarding facility that maintains pristine cleaning procedures.

Regis Regal, world-class West German Shepherd breeders, has over thirty years of experience breeding, raising, training, and boarding German Shepherd dogs. Our top priority is the health and safety of our dogs. If you have any questions about our puppies, service dogs, or our boarding facility in Spring Grove, Illinois, please feel free to reach out at regisregal@gmail.com.

Our Paw-sitively Perfect Day at Chicago Vet Show 2023

Regis Regal, top AKC German Shepherd breeders in Chicago, was invited to participate as the sole dog breeder for the Chicago US Vet Show on May 18 & 19 at the Navy Pier.

This 2-day veterinary conference offered many opportunities and exhibitions to meet with peers, find premier pet products, and have fun with your furry friend. Our top German Shepherd breeders are proud to be an fur-tastic exhibitor.

Regis Regal spent two days allowing participants to interact with our purebred puppies at 11 weeks and service dogs of all ages. We are so proud to educate veterinaries and dog lovers about our German Shepherd breeding, boarding, training, and service dogs for special needs.

A Paws-itively Perfect Day!

We are thrilled with the success of our participation in the Chicago US Vet Show. From the moment we arrived, we received a warm welcome and a constant stream of excited dog lovers.

Our interactive exhibit gave us the opportunity to showcase our purebred puppies and service dogs, and we were delighted to see so many people interested in our breeding and training programs.

During the two-day event and Wolf Pack Walk, we were able to connect with many veterinary professionals, as well as dog owners and enthusiasts. We also had the chance to learn about new products and technology in the veterinary field.

Overall, our experience at the Chicago US Vet Show was fur-tastic, and we look forward to participating again next year!

Puppy Rental in Chicago

Along with our family companion & service dog breeding, training, and boarding, our top German Shepherd breeders also providing puppy rental services. To reduce stress or to learn more about our well-tempered dogs, you can rent a puppy for a limited time for conventions, corporation events, company retreats, birthday parties, weddings, mental health awareness days, and more. If you are interested in having a furry friend at your next event, contact us to learn more about our puppy rental service.

How to Calm Dogs During Fireworks

Fireworks can be an exciting and mesmerizing way to celebrate special occasions. However, these light and sound displays can cause fear, anxiety, and even physical pain for many dogs. Unfortunately, this means that New Years Eve, Fourth of July or other firework-filled holidays may not be so enjoyable for our canine companions.

Understanding why dogs are scared of fireworks is key to helping them cope with their fears during these events. With a few simple steps, such as providing white noise or CBD products designed specifically for pets, we can help keep our furry friends calm while still enjoying the festivities ourselves.

So, let's read on to find out more about how to calm dogs during fireworks.

Why Are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?

Seeing fireworks anxiety in dogs often makes their owners anxious too. But what’s behind it? Dogs are sensitive creatures, and their hearing is far superior to ours. The loud bangs and fireworks whizzing can be incredibly frightening for them, causing physical and emotional distress.

Their heightened sense of smell may also be bothered by the burning odor from the fireworks displays. Dogs can also become scared and anxious when the environment around them suddenly changes, such as from a quiet night to an onslaught of loud noises.

Tips to Help Calm Dogs During Fireworks

If you want to learn how to keep dogs calm during fireworks during holidays, here are a round-up of tips that are sure to help:

Microchipping Your Dog

Microchipping is a great way to ensure that your pet has some form of identification in case they wander off during a scary fireworks night. This could make all the difference in bringing them home should they become frightened or confused and try to escape.

CBD for Dogs

Studies have shown that cannabidiol (CBD) products can help reduce overall anxiety levels in dogs, so this may be an option to consider as a means of calming your pet during an event like fireworks. Speak with your veterinarian about providing the perfect dosage for your dog, and make sure only to use products designed specifically with pets in mind.

White Noise for Dogs

One of the top ways to calm a dog is using white noise, as it is a great way of helping drown out the loud noises associated with fireworks. This may help make them less overwhelming for your pet and can also be beneficial in other situations, such as thunderstorms or loud parties.

Desensitize Your Dog to the Sound

If you know when fireworks will take place, try to desensitize your dog in advance by playing recordings of the sound at low levels and gradually increasing them as they become more comfortable.

Top German Shepherd Breeders

If you're looking for a new companion to help comfort your pet during fireworks, consider working with a top German Shepherd breeder like Regis Regal to adopt one. These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, which could make them a great addition to your family.

How to Help Your Dog with Fireworks Anxiety

If you cannot find a way to help calm your pet during fireworks, there are still some things you can do. Consider setting up a safe space in a quiet room, or playing calming music. You can also take your dog for a walk before the fireworks start, which may help tire them out and provide an outlet for their energy.

Lastly, talk to your dog's veterinarian. They can often recommend calming medication, such as holistic supplements or prescription drugs and provide advice on other methods of calming your pup during fireworks. This is especially helpful for dogs that have anxiety all the time.

Even if your dog is still scared during fireworks displays, simply being around you and feeling loved can be enough to help comfort them until it's over. No matter how scared your dog may be of fireworks, with a little extra attention and preparation, you can help them make it through the festivities.

Talk to an Expert Today about How to Calm Dogs During Fireworks

If you’re having trouble calming your pup during fireworks, contact Regis Regal to speak with one of our experts! We’ll help provide the best tips and advice to keep your pet happy and safe. Regis Regal is here to help make sure your pet has the best fireworks experience possible. Contact us today at (847) 721-1908 for more information and expert advice!

Foods Toxic to Dogs

It's no secret that dogs love to eat. In fact, many dog owners have to be careful about what they leave lying around because their furry friend will gobble it right up! While most foods are safe for dogs to eat, there are a few that can be harmful - or, sadly, even deadly. In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common toxic foods for dogs.

Dogs Metabolize Food differently than Humans

It's important to realize that dogs metabolize food differently than humans do, so what might be a healthy snack for us could actually be toxic or dangerous to our furry companions. Whether it's a special treat off the table or their regular daily kibble, it's essential that we understand the risks of feeding our pets certain foods. Even giving a different dog food than what your dog is used to should be introduced slowly, as sudden changes can cause stomach upset.

Foods That are Toxic to Dogs

Certain human foods can be extremely toxic for dogs and should never be fed to them, including:

Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, an alkaloid that is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or even death. Dark chocolate is especially potent, so it's best to keep that and all chocolate products away from your pup.
Grapes & Raisins: These small fruits contain a toxin that can cause kidney failure in dogs. If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately for treatment.
Alcohol: Just like us, dogs can suffer from alcohol poisoning if they ingest too much. Keep all alcoholic beverages far away from your pup to be safe. The same goes for marijuana which is toxic in all forms to dogs.
Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is commonly found in sugar-free gum and other products and can lead to seizures, liver failure, and even death in dogs. Make sure you check the ingredients in any treats you give your pup.

Foods Bad for Dogs' Liver

Since dogs have considerably smaller livers than humans, certain foods can be particularly damaging to their liver health. These include:

Avocados: Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs when consumed in large quantities.
Onions & Garlic: These members of the Allium family contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can cause anemia and other problems if consumed in large quantities.
Raw meat: Feeding your pup raw meat may seem like a healthy option, but it can actually lead to bacteria growth due to the high moisture content. Some raw meat has parasites, too, so be sure to cook it to the same recommended temperature for humans.

Human Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs

Many human foods can be toxic for dogs, so it's important to keep them away from your pup at all times. These include:

Macadamia nuts & walnuts: While these nuts are safe for humans, they contain a toxin that can cause vomiting, lethargy, and even paralysis in dogs. You should talk to your doctor about nuts because some can cause stomach upset, even if they aren't toxic. Brazil nuts are one example.
Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and energy drinks all contain caffeine which can cause vomiting, restlessness, and cardiac arrhythmia in our furry friends.
Milk & dairy products: Dairy products can be difficult for dogs to digest due to the lack of an enzyme called lactase, so it's best to keep milk and other dairy products away from your pup.

Foods to Give Sparingly to Dogs

While the foods listed above should be avoided, there are a few that can be given to your pup in moderation. These include:

Peanut butter: Peanut butter is high in fat, so it shouldn't be given too often. It's best to look for brands without added sugar, hydrogenated oils, or artificial sweeteners.
Cheese: Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium for dogs, but it should also be given in moderation to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal distress.
Cooked meat: Cooked meat can make a great treat for your pup, just make sure you don't overcook it or add too much seasoning. It's also important to feed your pup meat that is free of bones, as these can splinter and cause choking.
Store-bought treats: Store-bought treats can be great for training, but make sure you choose ones that are free of artificial ingredients and preservatives. Don't overdo it either, as these treats can be high in fat and calories.

Holiday Foods That Are Bad for Dogs

The holidays are a time for indulging in delicious treats – but not for our canine friends! Here are some holiday foods that are bad for dogs:

Fatty meats & poultry skins: Trimmings like bacon, fatty meats, and poultry skins can cause pancreatitis and other digestive issues.
Stuffing: The bread and add-ins in stuffing are difficult to digest, so it's best not to feed your pup any of this holiday favorite. Add a little cooked, fresh sweet potato to their dog food if you want to give them something special for the holiday.
Chocolate desserts: Brownies, cookies, and other chocolate desserts should be kept away from your pup because, as mentioned, the chocolate can be toxic.

Can Training Help with Your Dog's Diet?

Training is an important tool to keep your pup safe and healthy, especially when it comes to their diet. Teaching your pup the “leave it” command can help with keeping them away from potentially dangerous foods or items, while positive reinforcement can also be used to reinforce good behavior and discourage bad habits like stealing food off the counter. Still, it's best to err on the side of caution and keep any potentially harmful foods away from your pup.

Feeding your pup healthy and nutritious food is important for keeping them happy and healthy. To make sure your furry friend doesn't get into any dangerous human foods, it's essential to keep all potentially harmful food items far away from them. It's also important to discuss any dietary concerns with your veterinarian. With a little bit of knowledge and some extra care, you can help keep your pup safe!

(Disclaimer: This article is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian immediately.)

About Regis Regal

Regis Regal is a German Shepherd Breeder of merit in the Chicago, IL area. Our mission is to breed healthy, intelligent and loyal German Shepherds with excellent temperaments. We also provide Schutzhund Training to German Shepherd Dogs, which is a sport that focuses on the dog's physical and mental strengths. We provide a safe and loving environment for all of our dogs, from puppies to adults. At Regis Regal, we strive to produce German Shepherds that are true companions, family members and service animals. Contact us today at (847) 721-1908 to learn more about adopting our puppies or older dogs!

Can German Shepherds Swim?

As the proud owner of a German Shepherd, you may be wondering how you can keep your big guy or girl active. If summer is rolling around, you may even be wondering if your furry friend can swim. That line of thought also opens up more questions, such as will my shepherd go into my backyard pool, paddle around in lakes or frolic in the waves at the beach?

Those are all good questions. Let’s take a look at whether German Shepherds take to the water and some safety tips for swimming with your pup if it turns out they can swim along with you.

Do German Shepherds Like the Water?

Although German Shepherds were not bred to swim, the breed is known to take to water like a fish. In fact, many working dogs like them are used in water rescue missions because of their ability to paddle around.

In addition, the German Shepherd dog’s background gives them an athletic build and intelligence that gives them an edge on land and in the water.

Still, that does not mean that every single German Shepherd is delighted with the opportunity to take a soak—or that they are a natural at swimming. As it turns out, some GSDs hate the water, and some are even afraid of it.

Heidi, the Honorary Police Dog

This heartwarming story ABC7 reported on back in 2020 is an example of how one German Shepherd rescued her owner by dog paddling her heart out.

The story discussed how one German Shepherd in Australia named Heidi initiated rescue efforts that saved her owner.

Heidi swam for 11 hours and saved her owner’s life when she and various other floating items attracted attention after her owner’s boat lost power and sank off the coast of Brisbane.

Luckily, a fisherman that found Heidi and her owner radioed the Coast Guard and both were rescued.

Police said they were awe-struck that the GSD treaded for 11-hours while her owner drifted for almost 15 hours. Both Heidi and her owner were not injured, and she was made an honorary police dog for a day.

Teaching Your Dog to Swim

While Heidi got a crash course on swimming, that experience is not an ideal way to teach any dog to swim.

If you are interested in teaching your German Shepherd to swim or want to give them a little bit of water exposure, there are some things you should do first, such as:

Start with the shallows: You’ll want to make sure that the water is shallow enough that they can touch the bottom and feel comfortable. A good rule of thumb is that the water should not be higher than their chest.
Start slow: You should introduce them to the water gradually. Start with letting them get their feet wet and then work up to getting their whole body in the water. If they seem like they are enjoying it, you can try taking them out a little bit deeper.
Don’t force it: Have patience when it comes to getting your shep in the water. If they seem uncomfortable or afraid of the water, don’t force them to swim. This could make them associate being in the water with negative feelings and make it even harder to get them in the water in the future.

Swimming Safety Tips for German Shepherds

Even if your GSD is a natural swimmer, there are still some safety tips you should follow. They are:

Invest in a doggie life jacket, especially if your GSD is a puppy or senior.
You go first. This is especially important if you are swimming in an unfamiliar body of water. It ensures things are safe, and your dog will be more likely to follow you in if you head into the water first.
Have plenty of treats on hand. This is a great way to reward your dog for getting in the water and swimming around.
Always keep an eye on them. Dogs can tire quickly when swimming, so make sure you are always keeping an eye on them. If they seem like they are struggling, pick them up and carry them to safety.
If you are swimming in the ocean, be aware of rip currents and dangerous waves.
Like most dogs, GSDs can overheat. So, make sure to give them plenty of breaks in the shade and water.
Be careful of slippery surfaces near the pool, as your pup may want to run and play.

As you can see, German Shepherds are amazing swimmers that have even been known to save their owners’ lives. If you’re thinking of taking a dip with your pup, make sure to follow these safety tips.

Lastly, if your GSD isn’t too keen on getting in the water no matter how many treats you coax them with, that’s ok too. You can still find plenty of other activities to keep them busy and happy.

Regis Regal—A Breeder of Merit

Regis Regal is a small family-owned breeder of German Shepherds located in Spring Grove, IL. We offer world-class adult GSDs that can work as estate, therapy and service dogs. Services we provide include boarding, stud service, and lifetime training.

We also offer quality puppies to families looking for a loyal and lifelong companion. And there’s certain to be an aspiring four-legged swimmer somewhere in the mix! Visit our website or contact us today at 847-721-1908 to learn more about our dogs and upcoming litters.

How Long Do German Shepherds Live?

“Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault really.”

That quote originated with American writer Agnes Sligh Turnbull who understood the true value of our canine companions. Dog owners, just like Ms. Turnbull, know that the answer to the question of how long a German Shepherd (or any dog, really) lives, is that it’s never long enough.

Still, we can’t help but ask the question and try to find an answer for how much time we get to spend with these wonderful creatures.

Overview of the German Shepherd Breed

According to the American Kennel Club’s website, the German Shepherd Dog is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They were originally bred in Germany in the late 1800s as sheep herding dogs. They are highly sought after because they are large, intelligent, and athletic dogs that excel at a variety of tasks, including law enforcement work, assistance for people with disabilities, search and rescue, and drug detection.

The German Shepherd Lifespan

The lifespan for a German Shepherd is typically around 9-13 years, but they can live as long as 14 or 15 years. That’s not bad when you consider that the world’s oldest living dog was a 26-year-old Australian Cattle Dog.

You can contrast their lifespan against the Great Dane at an average of about nine years and a chihuahua at about 15 years.

Common Health Problems for German Shepherds

The most common German Shepherd health issues are hip dysplasia, weak back legs, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. (Cancer is the leading cause of death in German Shepherds, followed by old age.) As with any breed of dog, it’s important to have your pet regularly checked by a veterinarian and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these and other health problems.

How to Increase Your Dog’s Lifespan

The best way to increase your German Shepherd dog’s lifespan is to purchase a pup from a reputable breeder, who can provide you with health clearances for the parents of your pup.

Aside from that, you should have your GSD regularly checked by a veterinarian and be aware of the signs and symptoms of common health problems so that you can address them early. Keep up with their vaccinations and routine checkups to ensure they stay healthy. Have them spayed or neutered as soon as possible to help reduce the risk of health problems like cancer.

In addition, feed your dog a high quality low-carb diet and don’t overfeed them. Provide them with plenty of exercise and stimulation. Your German Shepherd will typically need two hours of exercise a day, especially since some of them are prone to hind leg weakness. In fact, if you keep your German Shepherd trim and healthy, you can add 18-24 months to their lifespan.

Lastly, keep your German Shepherd groomed and bathed regularly and brush their teeth daily to prevent gum disease.

Elderly Care for German Shepherds

Just like with any other pet, as your German Shepherd enters their golden years, you’ll need to start making some adjustments to its care. They may not be able to handle the same level of activity they used to and may require more rest. Elderly dogs are also more susceptible to temperature extremes.

You’ll also want to keep a close eye on their health, looking for any signs that they’re in pain or discomfort. German Shepherds are notorious for hiding their pain, so it’s important to be vigilant.

Talk to your veterinarian about the best ways to improve your senior dog’s quality of life when the time comes.

Make Sure Your German Shepherd Dog is a Good Fit for You

Before you bring a German Shepherd Dog into your home, it’s important to do your research and make sure they are a good fit for your family. German Shepherds are large, active dogs that need plenty of space and exercise. They also need to be with a family that is prepared to handle their high energy level and train them properly.

Also, it’s important to adopt the right type of German Shepherd, as some of their dog breeds, also known as bloodlines, make good family dogs, while others are more suited to police and military work.

It’s best to talk to a breeder like Regis Regal to find out what type of German Shepherd will work the best in your situation because, sadly, another large factor that can strongly impact a dog’s life is being raised in a loving forever home versus being given away to a shelter.

If you take good care of your German Shepherd throughout its lifetime, you can expect to enjoy many happy years with your furry friend. So, while we can’t make them live forever, there are things we can do to help increase our time with them. And that’s really all we can ask for.

Regis Regal German Shepherds

Regis Regal is a breeder of merit with over three decades of experience. We are passionate about our dogs and are committed to finding the right home for each and every one of them. We raise, breed, train, and board West-German Sieger Shepherds at our Spring Grove, Ill state-of-the-art facility.

Our German Shepherd dogs travel worldwide and are outstanding examples of what this popular breed should be: namely, line breeding at its highest and finest levels in anatomy, health and temperament.

We hope you enjoyed this post. If you have any questions or comments, please call us at (847) 721-1908 or send us a message. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about the German Shepherd breed or help you find the perfect pup for your family.

Until next time…Happy Shepherding!

What’s the Best Food for a German Shepherd?

If you are like most dog owners, you see the love and happiness your canine companion brings into your life as a cherished blessing. Those who give our hearts to dogs want our time with them to last for as long as possible, which is why we choose the food they eat very carefully. Human beings live longer and healthier lives when they eat a balanced diet of nutritious foods and avoid added sugar, fat and salt, and the same is true for dogs.

This article will explain how choosing a quality dog food could add years to your German Shepherd’s life and helps cut your vet’s bills at the same time.

Your German Shepherd’s Nutritional Needs

Many people assume dogs are carnivores because they are descended from wolves and have large canine teeth, but they are actually omnivores just like us.

In order to live a long and healthy life, your German Shepherd needs food that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. They also need plenty of fresh drinking water.

Understanding how dogs use these nutrients could help you to pick a good dog food, so let’s look at them one by one:

Protein: Your German Shepherd’s body only produces 10 of the 23 amino acids that make up protein. The other 10 must come from its food.
Fats: In addition to providing your GSD with energy, fats keep its skin and fur healthy. Fatty acids like omega-6, omega-3 and linoleic acid are particularly important.
Carbohydrates: The grains and vegetables in dog food provide your German Shepherd with sugar for bursts of energy, starches for stamina and endurance and fiber to keep its digestive tract healthy and regular.
Vitamins and minerals: Dogs can make all of the vitamin C they need, but other vitamins and crucial minerals like calcium and phosphorous must come from their food.
Water: Losing half of its protein and body fat would not kill your German Shepherd, but losing just 10% of its water could be fatal. Dogs should always have access to a bowl of fresh and clean water, and this is especially true if they eat dried rather than canned food.

How to Choose the Best Dog Food

Dog foods range from mass-produced to gourmet, and the price is not always a good indication of quality. On top of that, the information on product labels can often be a little murky.

To demystify some of this, know that dog food in the United States is regulated by the American Association of Feed Control Officials. In addition, every ingredient must be listed in decreasing amounts on the can or bag.

The first ingredient listed is almost always some sort of meat, meat by-product or meat meal, but what do these terms actually mean? Here is how the AAFCO defines them:

Meat and poultry: These terms refer primarily to the muscle tissue of slaughtered animals, but fat, gristle and some organs can also be labeled as meat. Poultry describes the parts of a chicken that humans would eat, but it can also contain ground bone. This is not something to worry about as it is a great source of calcium.
By-products: Meat and poultry by-products are the edible parts left on the carcass after meat and poultry have been removed. This term sounds unappealing, but it covers ingredients that dogs find delicious like liver and kidneys.
Meal: This term describes animal products that have been heated to kill bacteria using a process called rendering, which removes almost all of the water and fat but does not affect protein and minerals. Humans find rendered food almost inedible, but dogs absolutely love it.

Scary-Sounding Chemicals

The last ingredients listed on a bag or can of dog food are normally preservatives, emulsifiers, flavorings or colors, and they often have long and complicated names. However, many of them are not nearly as scary as they sound. Cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol make sure that dogs get the most vitamin D possible from their food, and Thiamine mononitrate and pyridoxine hydrochloride provide them with crucial B-complex vitamins.

Wet or Dry?

Many dog owners swear that dry dog food is healthier and more nutritious, but dozens of studies have revealed that this is simply not the case. Both wet and dry dog foods can be great or terrible, so base your decision on what your German Shepherd prefers, and then look for a quality product. You can also mix the two together.

Monitor Dog Food Recalls

No matter which dog food you choose, you should check both the FDA and manufacturer’s websites regularly to find out about any mandatory or voluntary recalls. Even small slip-ups can lead to contaminated products being shipped, and a gourmet price tag is no guarantee of safety. In 2007, a string of dog and cat deaths led to the recall of more than 150 pet foods. Many of these products were expensive and made in the United States, but they included ingredients imported from China that were contaminated with deadly melamine.

Be Careful with Calcium

Dogs use calcium to keep their bones and teeth healthy, but too much of the mineral can be a bad thing for German Shepherd puppies, as it can increase their chances of developing painful hip dysplasia later in life. If you have a German Shepherd puppy, avoid poultry-based products that are high in calcium and stick with puppy food for about two years.

Identifying Quality

If the price and ingredients on the bag or can are no guarantee of quality, what is a loving pet owner to do? You should look for products that have been rated “complete and balanced” by the AAFCO, and you should check dog food packaging for signs of quality. Phrases you could look out for include:

Grass fed
Free range
Organic
Formulated by veterinarians
Complete production control
No added hormones or antibiotics

A Few Good Choices

There are hundreds of great dog foods out there, and even some popular supermarket brands are surprisingly good. Here are three excellent choices:

First Mate: Made on a family-owned farm in Canada that controls all stages of production, First Mate dog foods are formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists and contain quality ingredients like cage-free duck from France and free-range lamb.
Merrick: This company has been making premium dog food out of the finest ingredients for more than 30 years. Merrick uses pure beef and fresh fruit and vegetables, and their Cowboy Cookout canned variety is especially popular.
Dr. Gary’s Holistic Pet Nutrition: Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet has been specially formulated for German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Dobermans. It is easily digestible to improve nutrient absorption, and it contains glucosamine for optimal joint health.

If Your Dog Has Allergies

Although they are a robust breed, German Shepherds can be prone to skin allergies. And, when they do have them, food and environmental allergens can put a damper on their quality of life.

Corn and cereal grains can often be the culprit here or undetected contaminants in cereal grain. Symptoms to watch out for if you think your GSD is allergic include them frequently chewing, scratching or biting their skin, or frequently shaking their head.

Corn also has a high-glycemic-index that can interfere with a dog that has health problems such as diabetes. If you suspect your dog is sensitive in some way to an ingredient in their diet, talk to your vet about ways to eliminate the substance. Corn isn’t very nutritious, so your GSD will never miss it if you eliminate it.

The Importance of Breeding

The health and longevity of a German Shepherd are determined to great extent by the genes it is born with. While diet and exercise are obviously important, breeding should not be overlooked. Regis Regal is an American Kennel Club Breeder of Merit in the Chicago area and provides lifetime health and temperament guarantees.

If you would like to learn more about our German Shepherd puppies, you can call us on (847) 721-1908 or fill out our online form. We look forward to hearing from you!

How to Care for an Aging German Shepherd

Most German Shepherds enjoy comfortable lives, are treated well and get plenty of exercise, but they rarely live longer than 13 years. Dogs have much shorter lifespans than human beings, and large breeds like German Shepherds are considered elderly at about eight years of age. There will not be a single sign to tell you that your dog has reached its golden years, but here are a few things you can look out for:

Lethargy: Dogs and people tend to slow down as they get older. If going for a walk does not get your dog as excited as it once did, it may be time to slow things down a little.
Weight gain: If your dog is not eating as much or eating the same amount and putting on weight, it could be because they are not exercising as much and burning up as many calories.
Fading eyesight: Vision problems are common in older dogs, and they sometimes make senior German Shepherds reluctant to go outside. The world can seem like a scary place to a dog, and this is especially true when they can no longer identify the source of a loud noise quickly.
Aches and pains: Older dogs need more time to recover from strenuous activities and may show signs of stiffness for several days.

Proactive Steps to add Years to your German Shepherd’s Life

While old age and decline may be inevitable for all living things, there are steps you can take that could add years of health and enjoyment to your dog’s life.

Select a Breeder Carefully

German Shepherds make loyal, intelligent and affectionate family pets, but the breed is predisposed to about 50 hereditary diseases. Breeders are aware of this, and most of them take great steps to ensure that the puppies they sell will lead long and healthy lives. Most of the problems people encounter with older German Shepherds could have been avoided if they looked for breeders that answered their questions candidly and really cared about their dogs. Regis Regal has been breeding German Shepherds for decades and is an American Kennel Club Breeder of Merit, and all of our puppies come with a lifetime health guarantee.

Choose Nutritious Dog Food

The food you give to your German Shepherd will provide it with far more than energy. Pet food high in vitamins, minerals, trace elements and phytonutrients can improve organ function and delay the development of degenerative diseases, but how can you tell the good from the bad? One of the first things you should do is read the label.

This is because the Association of American Feed Control Officials has developed standards for pet food labelling that can provide you with useful clues. Look for products that contain “meat” and “poultry” rather than “meat by-products” or “poultry meal,” and keep an eye out for preservatives like butylated hydroxytoluene, benzoic acid and ethoxyquin.

Make Exercise a Priority

Dogs that get plenty of exercise live longer and happier lives. In addition to building strength and stamina, regular play and exercise can help dogs to adapt to new situations and develop their social skills. Exercise will generally become less vigorous as a dog ages, but it should always remain a part of their daily routine.

Visit the Vet Regularly

The early signs of a serious health condition are sometimes easy to overlook, and this is particularly true when the patient cannot tell you where it hurts. Regular visits to the vet can catch problems early when more treatment options are available, and they could save you money in the long run.

Make Time for Love

Many older dogs spend most of their time sleeping or just lazing around, but that does not mean they want to be left alone. Your senior German Shepherd may no longer have the energy to pester you for affection the way they once did, but they will still appreciate all of the hugs and belly rubs you can spare. Having affection lavished on them also reminds an older dog that they still have a special place in their owner’s heart.

Caring for an Elderly German Shepherd

Taking care of an elderly dog can be emotionally draining, but dealing with the reality of the situation and taking appropriate action can make coping easier. To ensure that your German Shepherd enjoys its golden years, you will probably have to make some changes to its diet, health care and exercise routine.

Elderly German Shepherd Exercise

Long walks are probably the best way to keep your older German Shepherd as healthy as possible. The walks may be a little slower and recovering could take longer, but your dog will still get plenty of exercise and have lots of fun.

Try to avoid activities that involve jumping as they could cause shoulder or hip injuries, and encourage your German Shepherd to take to the water as swimming is an excellent way to maintain muscle mass without placing stress on joints.

If your German Shepherd is reluctant to go for a walk, you may want to make an appointment with the vet to make sure that their hesitancy is not being caused by an underlying medical condition.

Elderly German Shepherd Nutrition

Dogs become less active as they age, which means that they need less food. A few extra pounds can make it painful for a dog with aging bones to move around, so you should monitor your German Shepherd’s food intake carefully to avoid unnecessary weight gain.

You could also choose special pet food formulations for senior dogs that have fewer calories and ingredients designed to boost immune systems and lubricate joints. There are also herbal remedies like Yunnan Baiyao that could help older dogs to deal with soreness and recover from injuries more quickly.

Elderly German Shepherd Health Care

Your trips to the vet with an elderly German Shepherd will serve two purposes. The vet will take blood samples and run tests to diagnose any developing health issues, and they will also help your dog to cope with issues it is already facing. It is a good idea to keep a record of any unusual behavior that could help your vet to get to the root of a problem.

Your vet may also recommend support devices like hip braces or padding if your German Shepherd is showing signs of joint problems. Another gift that your dog will definitely appreciate is a ramp or set of steps that it could use to make getting into your car or reaching its favorite resting place just a little easier.

Accept and Love Your German Shepherd at Any Age

Dog owners know that getting a puppy is the first step on an incredible journey, but they also understand that the journey is a short one. Taking care of an older dog gives us the opportunity repay years of loyalty and love, and it can also help us to prepare for the inevitable.

If you want to bring a German Shepherd into your life and are willing to accept the responsibilities of dog ownership, the experts at Regis Regal can help you to find the perfect puppy and answer any questions you have. To find out more about our health guarantee, follow-up services and training programs, you can call us on (847) 741-1908 or fill out our online contact form.