Are Blue Bay Shepherds good family dogs? Blue Bay Shepherds are good family dogs. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle temperament. However, like any large and active breed, they require plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and proper training to thrive in a family environment. Socialization from a young age is also important to ensure they are well-behaved around children and other pets.
With so many breeds to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit. Recently, Blue Bay Shepherds have gained popularity as family pets.
If you’re wondering about the size of a Blue Bay Shepherd and if they’d make a good addition to your household, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll cover all the reasons why these dogs may be the perfect fit for your family, including their size and temperament. Let’s dive in and discover why Blue Bay Shepherds are more than just a pretty face.
Table of Contents
Temperament
Blue Bay Shepherds are known for their exceptional temperament, making them great family dogs.
Vicki Spencer, the founder and breeder at Southern Breeze Ranch in Florida, developed the Blue Bay Shepherd breed by crossing the old German Shepherd with several wolf-descendant dog species.
Her goal was to create a breed with the wolf’s size and beauty, but with the gentle temperament and trainability of the German Shepherd.
Vicki Spencer has dedicated years to perfecting the breed, ensuring that Blue Bay Shepherds are not only beautiful and intelligent, but also loving and well-behaved family pets.
Therefore, you can expect the Blue Bay Shepherds to be incredibly loyal to their owners and will do anything to protect their loved ones.
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However, their loyalty also means that they can become overly protective if not properly trained and socialized.
In addition to their loyalty, Blue Bay Shepherds are highly intelligent. This makes them easy to train and eager to learn new commands and tricks. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy having a job to do, making them great working dogs as well.
With consistent training and positive reinforcement, Blue Bay Shepherds can quickly learn and excel in various tasks.
Trainability
Training is crucial for any dog, and Blue Bay Shepherds are no exception.
Fortunately, these dogs are highly trainable and eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, and can quickly pick up new commands.
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However, it is essential to start training them from a young age and be consistent with your approach to ensure they grow into well-behaved and obedient dogs.
Socialization
Socialization is also crucial for Blue Bay Shepherds, as it helps them develop into well-adjusted and friendly dogs.
According to researcher Tiffani J Howell of La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia, she wrote that:
“Lack of appropriate early socialization to a range of people and other animals, as well as different environments, can result in adult dogs that exhibit problematic behaviors, such as undesirable aggression and fearfulness.” (source)
They have a social nature and enjoy being around people and other animals.
However, without proper socialization, they can become wary and even aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.
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It is essential to expose them to different people, places, and situations from a young age to help them become confident and well-mannered dogs.
Family-friendly Qualities
Blue Bay Shepherds have many qualities that make them great family dogs. They are gentle and affectionate, making them excellent companions for children.
They are also playful and energetic, always up for a game or a run in the park.
Since Blue Bay Shepherds are quite active and enjoy spending time outdoors, a wireless dog fence can be a great investment to keep them safe and contained in your yard without the restrictions of a traditional fence.
This allows them to burn off energy while giving you peace of mind.
Additionally, an electronic dog door can provide them with the freedom to go in and out of the house as they please, ensuring they have access to the outdoors whenever they need it.
This is not only beneficial for the dog, giving him autonomy and promoting exercise, but it also saves the dog owner time and hassle from constantly having to open and close the door for their pet.
It’s a convenient solution that allows for a harmonious coexistence, as your furry friend can self-manage his outdoor time, while you can go about your day without interruption.
These tools can help manage your dog’s energy levels and keep them happy and healthy.
Their devotion to their owners means they will always be by your side, making them great for families who want a loyal and loving dog.
Additionally, Blue Bay Shepherds are obedient and well-mannered, making them easy to have around the house.
Low Maintenance
Blue Bay Shepherds have a low-maintenance coat, making them ideal for families who don’t have a lot of time for grooming.
They have a double coat that sheds minimally, making them a great choice for those with allergies. Blue Bay Shepherds do shed more twice a year, in the spring and fall.
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While they are not hypoallergenic, Blue Bay Shepherds do produce less dander, making them suitable for people with allergies.
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Their coat is easy to groom, requiring only occasional brushing with either a FURminator brush or a slicker brush to keep it healthy and shiny.
Versatility
Blue Bay Shepherds are incredibly versatile dogs, excelling in various activities.
They are great working dogs, whether it be in search and rescue, therapy, or as service dogs.
They also make excellent companions for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and swimming.
Their intelligence and trainability make them suitable for various dog sports, such as agility and obedience competitions.
Are Blue Bay Shepherds good family dogs for sale?
Blue Bay Shepherds can be good family dogs. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle temperament.
However, it is important to be cautious when purchasing Blue Bay Shepherds or any dog, from a breeder or seller.
It’s important to do your research and make sure that the breeder is reputable.
As the American Kennel Club (AKC) advises:
“Finding a responsible breeder you trust is your first—and most important—step to finding your new best friend. Breeders are invaluable resources. Not only are they a bridge between you and your perfect dog, but you can also rely on them throughout your dog’s lifetime. Think of a breeder as your own private guide to all things dogs, from choosing the right dog to caring for it forever.”
Visit the breeder in person and check to see that the puppies and their mother are raised in a healthy and loving environment.
Lastly, always ask for health records and other necessary documentation.
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Are Blue Bay Shepherds good family dogs for adoption?
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds can be excellent family dogs when adopted. Adopting a dog gives them a second chance at a loving home.
Before adopting, ensure the dog’s history, temperament, and health status are compatible with your family’s lifestyle.
Adoption agencies and shelters often conduct assessments to help match dogs with suitable families, and this can be a valuable resource in finding the right Blue Bay Shepherd for your family.
Cost and Expenses
The cost of owning a Blue Bay Shepherd extends far beyond the initial purchase price, which can range from $2,000 to $3,000.
Prospective owners need to consider expenses such as food, routine veterinary care, grooming, training, and supplies, all of which can add up to a significant amount over the course of the dog’s life.
Additionally, emergency medical expenses can arise unexpectedly.
It is essential to have a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved in owning a Blue Bay Shepherd.
To help you budget accordingly, please refer to the table of expenses provided here:
Expense Type | Cost | Find it here: |
Dog food and treats | $389-$500 | Puppy and dog food |
Bowls for food and water | $25-$30 | Pet bowl |
Dog bed | $60-$100 | Doggy beds |
Grooming items | $35-$70 | Grooming Supplies |
Toys | $20-$60 | Dog toys |
ID Tag | $8-$20 | Dog collar |
Vet visits (initial) | $50-$250 | |
Initial shots | $75-$100 | |
Medications (flea, heartworm, etc.) | $30-$70 | Canine Dewormer |
Neuter/spay procedure | $80-$470 | |
Microchip | $25-$60 | |
Total Cost | $797-$1,730 |
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Blue Bay Shepherds make excellent family dogs due to their loyal, intelligent, and protective nature.
They are highly trainable and social dogs, making them great companions for families with children and other pets.
They are low maintenance and versatile, making them suitable for various lifestyles and activities.
With proper training, socialization, and care, Blue Bay Shepherds can make a wonderful addition to any household.
FAQ
The legality of owning a Blue Bay Shepherd varies by location, so it is essential to check local laws and regulations before acquiring one.
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds are good dogs. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle temperament, making them good family dogs and furry companions.
The Golden Shepherd, a cross between a German Shepherd and Golden Retriever, is often considered one of the friendliest shepherd dogs due to their sociable and gentle nature.
Blue Bay Shepherds are very intelligent dogs, known for their quick learning ability and problem-solving skills.
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With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.