How big is a Blue Bay Shepherd? Blue Bay Shepherds are large dogs, similar in size to German Shepherds. Males typically weigh between 70 and 100 pounds, while females weigh 50 to 75 pounds. Their height ranges from 22 to 32 inches at the shoulder. Make sure you have enough space and time for exercise before getting one!
If you’ve ever wondered about the size of this majestic breed, you’ve come to the right place. Blue Bay Shepherds are a relatively new breed and they’re quickly gaining popularity for their unique characteristics and stunning appearance.
In this blog, we will delve into the size of a Blue Bay Shepherd, their growth and development, and their special traits. Additionally, we will offer essential care advice for prospective owners looking to welcome a Blue Bay Shepherd into their home as a loyal family member and protector.
Table of Contents
Size of a Blue Bay Shepherd
Blue Bay Shepherds are a relatively new breed, developed in the United States in the 1980s by a breeder named Vicki Spencer.
Vicki Spencer of Southern Breeze Ranch in Florida crossed the Old German Shepherd with several wolf-descent dog species (including a Malinois), resulting in a unique and striking appearance.
But just how big do these majestic dogs get?
On average, a Blue Bay Shepherd stands at 24 to 30 inches tall and weighs between 55 and 90 pounds.
This puts them in the medium to large size category, making them slightly smaller than a German Shepherd but larger than a Malinois.
However, it’s important to note that each dog is unique and may vary in size, even within the same litter.
When compared to other breeds, Blue Bay Shepherds are similar in size to other herding breeds such as the Australian Shepherd and the Border Collie.
They are also comparable in size to other German Shepherd mixes, such as the Shiloh Shepherd and the King Shepherd.
The size of a Blue Bay Shepherd can also be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise.
Proper nutrition and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, which can affect a dog’s size.
Growth and Development
Blue Bay Shepherds typically reach their full size between 18 and 24 months of age.
However, their growth rate may vary, with some dogs reaching their full size earlier or later. It’s important to monitor their growth and consult with a veterinarian if there are any concerns.
According to Regina Humane Society:
“You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member.”
Factors such as nutrition, exercise, and genetics can also affect a Blue Bay Shepherd’s growth rate.
Providing a balanced diet and regular exercise can help promote healthy growth and development for your Blue Bay Shepherd.
To facilitate regular exercise, consider utilizing your backyard as a safe and convenient space for your dog to play, run, and explore throughout the day.
Implementing a wireless dog fence can ensure your Blue Bay Shepherd remains safe and secure while enjoying the outdoors.
Additionally, installing an electronic dog door can provide your K9 friends with the freedom to head outside whenever they please, promoting an active lifestyle and contributing to their overall well-being.
Best of all, this setup allows your dog to self-manage their exercise routine, ensuring they can stretch their legs and enjoy some fresh air whenever they feel the need, without having to wait for you to let them out.
This autonomy can lead to a happier, healthier, and more content pet.
Cost and Expenses of a Blue Bay Shepherd
Owning a Blue Bay Shepherd comes with its own set of costs and expenses.
The initial cost of purchasing a Blue Bay Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $2,000 to $3,000.
This price may vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage of the puppy.
In addition to the initial purchase cost, there are ongoing expenses to consider. These include:
- Food: A high-quality dog food is essential for the health and well-being of your Blue Bay Shepherd. The cost of food can range from $50 to $100 per month, depending on the brand and type of food you choose.
- Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are crucial for your dog’s health. The cost of veterinary care can range from $200 to $500 per year.
- Grooming: Blue Bay Shepherds have a thick coat that requires regular grooming. The cost of grooming tools such as a FURminator brush and slicker brush, as well as professional grooming services, can add up to $200 to $400 per year.
- Training: Proper training is essential for a well-behaved Blue Bay Shepherd. The cost of training classes or hiring a professional trainer can range from $100 to $500.
- Supplies: Other supplies such as a retractable dog leash or a rope dog leash, collar, comfortable chew proof beds, and toys can add up to $100 to $200.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Other miscellaneous expenses such as boarding, pet insurance, and emergency medical care can add up to $500 to $1,000 per year.
Here is a table of expenses you should be aware of:
| 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 |
In total, the annual cost of owning a Blue Bay Shepherd can range from $1,050 to $3,700, not including the initial purchase cost of the puppy.
It’s important to consider these costs and expenses before deciding to bring a Blue Bay Shepherd into your home.
If you’d like to learn more about how to find a reputable dog breeder, we encourage you to check out American Kennel Club where they provide tips for finding a responsible breeder.
Unique Characteristics
Aside from their size, Blue Bay Shepherds have many unique characteristics that make them stand out from other breeds.
They have a muscular and athletic build, with a thick double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and silver.
In terms of temperament, Blue Bay Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature.
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They make excellent guard dogs and are often used in law enforcement and military work. They are also highly trainable and excel in activities such as agility, obedience, and tracking.
Care Tips
To keep a Blue Bay Shepherd happy and healthy, it’s important to provide them with proper care. This includes regular exercise and mental stimulation, as well as a nutritious diet.
Their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding.
WANT MORE INFORMATION? Check out Do Blue Bay Shepherds Shed?
Using a FURminator brush can help remove loose undercoat hair, while a slicker brush can be used to eliminate tangles and mats. Doing so will leave your dog’s coat smooth and healthy.
Regular grooming with these tools will not only keep your furry friend’s coat in top condition but also reduce the amount of hair around your home.
Like all breeds, Blue Bay Shepherds are prone to certain health concerns, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and allergies.
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Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these issues.
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Why Blue Bay Shepherds are Gaining Popularity
Blue Bay Shepherds are a relatively rare breed, but their popularity is on the rise.
This can be attributed to the increasing demand for unique and rare breeds, as well as the influence of social media and celebrity endorsements.
Many people are drawn to their striking appearance and impressive abilities, making them a sought-after breed.
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Final thoughts
In conclusion, the size of a Blue Bay Shepherd falls within the medium to large category, with an average height of 24 to 30 inches and weight of 55 to 90 pounds.
Their growth rate and size can be influenced by various factors, and they have many unique characteristics that make them stand out from other breeds.
Proper care and attention are essential to keeping these majestic dogs happy and healthy. If you’re considering adding a Blue Bay Shepherd to your family, be sure to do thorough research and consult with a reputable breeder.
FAQ
Blue Bay Shepherds are known for their intelligent, energetic, and loyal temperament. They tend to be good with children and other animals when properly socialized.
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds have wolf in them. The breed is called Blue Bay Wolf Dogs because they carry wolf DNA. However, the Blue Bay Shepherd Wolf Dog is five generations away from pure wolves, and their wolf-like qualities are mostly limited to their physical appearance. The breeder, Vicki Spencer, tries to keep the wolf DNA down to about 6% to ensure no feral tendencies arise in the dogs. However, it is not a precise science, and a Blue Bay Shepherd may share up to 40% DNA with wolves.
Blue Bay Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable. They excel in obedience and are often used in various canine sports and activities.
The Anatolian Shepherd is one of the largest shepherd breeds, with males weighing between 110 and 150 pounds and females weighing between 80 and 120 pounds. They are strong, powerful, and protective dogs.
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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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.
