When Tiny Differences Matter: Understanding Fading Puppy Syndrome From a Breeder Who’s Been There As breeders, we live for the sound of tiny squeaks, those first nursing wiggles, and the warmth of newborn puppies nestled close to their dam. But no matter how experienced we are, nothing prepares us for losing a puppy — especially one that seemed perfectly fine just days before. We call it Fading Puppy Syndrome, but here’s the truth - It’s not a single disease. It’s a final out

At Von Schaaf Haus Dupree, we follow the evidence-based, integrative approach advocated by Dr. Karen Becker, a leading voice in functional veterinary medicine. Her work highlights a crucial truth: reproductive hormones do far more than control fertility — they influence nearly every aspect of a dog’s overall health and vitality.

Exceptional puppies start with exceptional care - long before their eyes even open.

Unfortunately, there has been a lot of misinformation and even scare tactics around breeders giving their own vaccines. Some veterinarians may advise starting your puppy’s vaccinations all over again simply because they didn’t administer the vaccines themselves. While I absolutely agree that some breeders may not handle vaccines correctly, that’s not the case for everyone. It’s crucial to know your rights and options in advocating for your puppy’s health.

We do not shy away from placing siblings together. Why? Because when done right, littermates can thrive under one roof—and we’ve seen it time and time again. The key lies not in avoiding littermates, but in understanding what’s happening on a physiological and behavioral level—and having the tools to raise them successfully.

When it comes to Dobermans, the first thing many people notice (aside from their incredible intelligence & loyalty) is their striking coat colors. The two most popular colors in Dobermans are red and black, each with its own unique characteristics. But which one is superior? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for in a Dobie companion. Let’s dive into the red vs. black Doberman debate and explore the ins & outs of each.

Leptospirosis bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, often spreading through water sources, soil, and areas contaminated by the urine of infected animals. Dogs can become infected by swimming in, drinking, or even walking through water that harbors the bacteria.

A common misconception about Great Danes is that they need a huge amount of space to run and play because of their size. But in reality, these gentle giants are incredibly content to simply lounge around close to their favorite people. Known as "couch potatoes" of the dog world, Great Danes are all about companionship. They’ll enjoy a good play session or a brisk walk but don’t require endless open space to thrive. Instead, they love a cozy spot right next to you, whether it’

Grapes and Raisins Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic component is unknown, but signs include vomiting, lethargy, and dehydration, progressing to a lack of urine production and potential fatality.

European Male vs. Female Dobermans: Traits to Consider Choosing a European Doberman as your family pet is an exciting decision, and selecting between a male and female can be one of the most important factors. Both have distinct characteristics that appeal to different lifestyles and needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between European male and female Dobermans to help you make the best choice for your family.

The Origins of the Martingale Collar The martingale collar originated in the UK, designed with a specific purpose: to provide Greyhounds, Whippets, and other sighthounds with a collar that wouldn’t easily slip off their narrow heads. These breeds, known for their slender necks and smaller heads, were prone to slipping out of traditional buckle collars. Thus, a collar that could gently tighten when tension was applied became a necessity. The invention of the martingale colla

As loving dog owners, we know how important it is to keep our pets happy and healthy. One area that often flies under the radar? Ear cleaning! For all you canine caregivers—whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie—this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your dog's ears clean, healthy, and free of wax and debris. Why Do Dogs Produce Ear Wax? Much like humans, dogs produce ear wax (also known as cerumen) to help keep their ears

When selecting chew toys for a Great Dane puppy, it's important to consider durability and safety, given their rapid growth and strong chewing tendencies. Here are some reputable chew toys that are suitable for Great Dane puppies:

Great Danes, often called the "Apollo of Dogs," are magnificent creatures known for their towering stature and gentle demeanor. If you own a Great Dane, you know that finding the right clothing can be a challenge due to their size and unique body shape. However, dressing up your Great Dane can be both fun and functional, especially during colder months or special occasions. In this blog post, we'll explore why clothing for Great Danes can be beneficial, what types of clothing

Spring 2024 Great Dane Litter

As a breeder of Great Danes and European Dobermans, I've spent countless hours observing our puppies as they grow and develop. One of the most captivating and heartwarming moments is watching them sleep and seeing their tiny bodies twitch, their paws paddle, or even hearing them whimper or growl softly. These behaviors are often signs that your puppies are dreaming. In this blog post, we'll explore the world of puppy dreams, why they matter, and what they reveal about your pu

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon: Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a dog's skin, coat, heart, and brain health. It contains high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12, D, and selenium. These components contribute to a dog's overall health and well-being.

Dogs are not only known for their loyalty but also for their intelligence. Great Danes and European Dobermans are no exception. These breeds are incredibly bright and thrive when their minds are active. Just like physical exercise, mental stimulation is crucial to keep them happy and balanced.

Before we explore the importance of routine, it's essential to grasp the fundamental aspects of the canine psyche. Dogs, no matter how loyal and affectionate, cannot fully engage in human-style conversation. Instead, they rely on non-verbal cues, body language, and the tone of our voices to interpret the world around them. This fundamental communication gap makes predictability and routine all the more important in a puppy's life.

In the ever-evolving world of pet ownership, a fascinating trend has taken the canine community by storm - dog communication buttons. We've all witnessed the heartwarming videos online where dogs press these interactive buttons to engage in meaningful conversations with their human companions. While it might seem like something out of science fiction, the concept of dogs communicating with buttons is not only entirely within the realm of possibility, but it also highlights th