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This thoughtfully crafted dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional requirements of Labrador Retriever puppies up to 15 months old. It contains premium proteins and prebiotics for optimal digestion and energy. With vitamin E and minerals, it supports the immune system and overall health. The kibble size and texture promote dental health. This puppy food provides a tasty and balanced diet to support healthy growth and development, making it an excellent choice for Labrador Retriever puppy owners. This nutritious dog food is made with real chicken and eggs and provides essential vitamins and minerals for healthy digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. It also supports strong bones and healthy skin and coat. Its balanced nutrition and delicious taste make it a satisfying choice for adult Labrador dogs. This high-quality dog food offers a complete nutritional profile at a reasonable price, making it an excellent value-for-money option for pet parents seeking to provide their dogs with a nutritious diet. How to find the best Labrador dog food? Selecting the optimal dog food for your Labrador necessitates the meticulous evaluation of various factors. Look for high-quality ingredients: Choose dog foods that contain high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats and are free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Choose a formula for Labrador Retrievers: Some dog food brands offer recipes designed explicitly for Labrador Retrievers, considering their unique nutritional needs. Suitability with age: Age factors matter a lot when choosing Labrador dog food. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different dietary requirements, so select a formula appropriate for your dog's age. Read the online reviews to get an idea of how other dog owners feel about a particular dog food brand. You may be interested in Product. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Once they reach eight weeks, changing to dry kibble food is best. We recommend feeding a Labrador puppy dry kibble for the first months before changing to an adult food type. But to remain healthy, owners should know what to feed them. Dog owners should feed a Labrador puppy dry food kibble , wet food, or fresh human food, depending on their budget and lifestyle. There are many options for food for dogs, and it can become challenging to determine which one is the best option for the dog. We have found the best options and listed them below. They help us with our daily tasks, are always there when we need them, and bring great joy to our lives. But, it is essential to ensure that our dog gets the best nutrition possible. They have a lot of energy and need to be fed accordingly. This includes the number of calories, food type, and the number of meals per day. We will explain all of these factors to help understand what to feed these precious animals. A Labrador puppy needs high-quality protein in their diet, so they should not be fed just any type of food. This is why we recommend three food options: dry food or kibble, fresh food or human food, or wet food. We prefer using dry food or kibble in most cases, but it is beneficial to start with wet food for young puppies and transition to dry food after a few weeks. Feeding a puppy human food is possible, but it can be more expensive and requires extra work to stick to a cleaner diet at this age. We have found it to be a healthier and more convenient option for our pets. It is also a good alternative to wet food which can be difficult to store and prepare. The benefits of dry dog food are that it offers the pup a balanced diet that doesn't need refrigeration. It also offers convenience because we can buy it in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer until needed. Dry dog food is also less expensive than wet food, which is another benefit for pet owners. Fresh Food Human Food Feeding a Labrador puppy a diet of fresh, real human food is one of the best things to do for their health and well-being. It will not only make them happy and content, but it will also keep them healthy. This eliminates the guessing game; they are only fed real, natural foods with no unknown ingredients. However, it will become expensive and require regular cooking and preparation. Wet Food Wet food is recommended for Labrador puppies when they are first born and for the first weeks while they grow. It can be either raw or cooked. Wet food is a good source of water and minerals, which are important in the early days of their life to help them grow strong bones and teeth. It should be given to a puppy as soon as it comes out of its mother's womb, but it must not be given before it starts eating solid foods because it will cause diarrhea. Once they get more mature, moving to kibbles is best. It is known for its low level of grain and carbohydrate content and high protein content. Once they reach the week mark, there are better options to help the puppy continue to develop and grow. This food also helps with digestion and weight management. It also promotes proper bone growth with antioxidants and necessary nutrients like vitamin E. The kibble is also shaped strategically to help puppies who chew fast while helping with jaw growth. Overall, this is the best food option for a Labrador puppy. It is designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors, and we love the benefits it provides to younger labs. The product features a blend of highly digestible proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine. This ensures the dog gets the nutrition they need while also reducing the risk of digestive tract problems such as bloat or pancreatitis. It also has a low glycemic index and no corn, wheat, or soy in the recipe. Dog owners can also expect an excellent protein ratio when using this food. Both veterinarians and nutritionists have recognized it for its high-quality ingredients for young puppies. The Acana High Protein formula is made with a blend of chicken, turkey, and fish meals, whole eggs, and natural beef or lamb meal. The product has a limited ingredient list with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It also has no added sugar and a low glycemic index. This food also contains probiotics and prebiotics to help the pet maintain a healthy immune system. This is the perfect dry dog food for puppies after eight weeks old. This brand is also very affordable for those who want to feed their dog a healthy diet without breaking the bank. It features a patented recipe that helps to promote healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, healthy skin and shiny coat, a strong immune system, healthy joints and muscles, and a healthy heart. This is a high-protein food option for Labradors too. It promotes lean muscle growth and improved body health with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics 5. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has a great taste and texture for labs to enjoy. This food is to help with puppy development and is suitable for all Labradors under one-year-old. This wet food provides the perfect balance of healthy proteins to support a dog's growth while providing the energy they need to maintain its fitness levels. This can be fed as a meal or as an occasional snack between meals. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added sugar. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and the dog's coat. They are large, strong, intelligent dogs that need a lot of attention, exercise, and food. These dogs can be picky eaters and usually need a lot of calories because of their size. This is especially true for puppies so they can grow properly and remain healthy due to their increased risk of health issues. Food Type Labrador puppies' most popular dog foods are kibbles and canned wet food. Kibbles are the best option for a puppy because they are easy to chew and digest. Canned food is a good option for pups who have difficulty chewing or digesting dry food and would benefit from a little moisture in their diet. The food type also depends on the owner. Dry food or kibbles are faster to prepare, while serving human food to a lab puppy requires extensive prep time. Nutritional Value When it comes to nutritional value, we want dog food that has high-quality protein and carbohydrates. This will help the puppy grow strong and healthy. This is why we need to take into account the nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and taste. It should be made with all-natural ingredients that are sourced from human-grade materials such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A brand should have all the essential nutrients for a pup but still, be low in toxic elements and preservatives too. Dietary Restrictions Lastly, consider the dietary restrictions of the Labrador puppy before choosing a dog food option. This includes any allergies or health concerns for the dog and shopping for something that suits them best. For example, lab puppies must reach a certain carbohydrate and protein number daily. Labradors are also known to have allergies, especially young ones, so planning around this is crucial. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day, with a meal size that is appropriate for its body weight. They should also be given small daily snacks to keep them satisfied and happy, including treats to help with training. We feed our puppies the best that we can. We want to give them all the nutrients and vitamins they need. We also want to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet. The most important thing when feeding a Labrador puppy is that they get enough calories from their food every day. In the first weeks, the puppy should eat four smaller daily meals. Once the lab reaches three months, this can be changed to three meals per day. And after months, we recommend two meals per day. The key is not to change the calories much when the meals change but to simply modify the size of each meal to fit the total daily food amount. Feeding a Labrador puppy is not rocket science, but there are some things everybody should know about what to feed them and when to feed them. We have covered this basis, but changes need to be made as they age. This leads to a common question about changing food to fit the needs of a grown adult Labrador. The dog's age will determine how quickly they grow and how much energy they need. Lab puppies can stick with kibbles for up to 12 months. Increase portions as your puppy grows. Be sure to follow the rule of dog treats. This is about changes over time. Nutritional deficiency or excess can lead to disease and ultimately death. You may have noticed that your dog has dandruff after changing food, but the food is really good — try adding levels of zinc and vitamin A. Your main task as a pet owner is to monitor the health of a small family member and be responsible for this life. Image credit: canva. The first one is a protein that can be found in meat, poultry, fish, yogurt, and cooked eggs. Protein is responsible for the structure of muscles and tissues, as well as the formation and growth of new cells. In the diet for a Labrador puppy, it is imperative to include carbohydrates that are found in brown rice, potatoes, and wheat. Carbohydrates supply the body with glucose, which is responsible for the functioning of the brain and nervous system. An obligatory component of dog food is fats. It is a source of energy, development, and functioning of the cells and muscles of the body. Fats are included in oil and even fish oil. Puppy food for Labs or any other dog includes a certain amount of minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and others. Minerals in dog food form bones and cartilage and balance the nerves. It promotes the production of hormones in the Lab puppies, regulates the balance of fluids in the body, and transports oxygen into the blood. Like people, dog and puppy foods should include plenty of water. Water is life! Once in the body, they strengthen bones, and teeth and fill the Labrador puppy with energy. Cost point Every time you buy pet food, you think about the issue of price. Of course, cost is important when making a purchasing decision. You should be aware that higher-quality puppy food can cost more than the average price. Your dog is an irreplaceable member of your family, which must be protected and loved with all your heart. Risks and diseases Lab owners should know well about all risks and diseases that their dogs may face. Numerous studies confirm that the Labrador Retriever breed is prone to digestive sensitivities and skin allergies due to irritating foods. This leads to pruritic diseases. Skin allergies and problems with the gastrointestinal tract are severe. Labs are prone to obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight and body is considered an important point of caring for a dog. In general, Labrador Retrievers should have a taut, hourglass-shaped figure. Obesity puts additional stress on bones and joints and makes it difficult to stay healthy. To combat weight gain, you need to exercise your dog with certain physical exercises, follow a proper diet, control portion sizes, and receive treats. Another disease caused by malnutrition is Gastric dilatation-volvulus. In short, this is boating. Indigestion is a severe problem that should not be ignored. The worst risk is death from the musculoskeletal disorder of muscles, nerves, joints, arthritis, and spinal discs. Also, you should be aware that feed processing of dog foods affects the occurrence and development of cancer. Dry food is cooked at a very high temperature, which leads to the formation of harmful chemical elements in the body of the dog. Such food also contains carbohydrates, which break down into cancer-causing glucose. You can combine dog food with homemade recipe food for your pet yourself. Moreover, it is a good way of feeding your dog if the dog food at home is over or there is very little left, but you need to extend the time until the next purchase. Dogs fed solely on home-cooked or combined diets lived for about 13 years, while those fed only processed food lived for about 10 years. Like human food, it can be chewed easily. Food is broken down in the body so that key nutrients are absorbed more quickly. Such food facilitates digestion and relaxes the stomach. Reducing stress on the digestive system reduces the likelihood of bloating. If you still decide to cook homemade food, follow the rules. Study each ingredient. Cook all animal products for the exact finish to kill harmful bacteria. Risks of homemade dog food Most of the problems are caused by a misunderstanding of the nutritional needs of the Labrador. If you do not understand the effect of food on the body of your pet, which reaction is correct and which can lead to negative consequences and different stages of life, contact a professional veterinarian who can tell you in detail about the effect of food on the body of a dog and how to properly form a pet diet. What food is best for a Labrador puppy? We made for you the list of the best puppy food for Labrador puppies. We can highlight the most noteworthy products from this list. Should I feed my Lab puppy dry or wet food? Mix dry and wet food. What is better to choose — opinions are different. But if you are in doubt about which puppy food to choose, consult your veterinarian. What is the recommended amount of water for a puppy? Older pups that have been nursed require one-half ounce to one ounce of water per pound of body weight. What do you feed an 8-week-old Lab puppy? An 8-week-old puppy should be fed several small meals a day. After 14 weeks, the Lab puppy can switch to two meals a day. Food for a Labrador puppy should be full of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals for healthy development. Giving treats is fine, but remember that Labradors are prone to overeating and gaining weight quickly. Also, try to give treats for obedience. You can choose canned food and dry food for your dog as you wish but you should always think about the effect of this dog food on your dog. Hope this article was helpful for you and that your pet will grow healthy and strong. Diamond Naturals Dog Food Review An additional reason for there being specific food for puppies is the pieces are smaller which not only prevents them from choking, it also makes the food easier to digest. The pieces are richer, denser and the ideal size for smaller mouths. These ingredients are where your pup gets the nutrients they need to grow and live, nutrients that are sadly lacking in the cheaper dog foods. With foods that are a bit more expensive, your pooch can eat a more well-balanced meal and enjoy it. They eat more, they poop more, and this means house training becomes much harder for you. What you feed your puppy is a major factor in the success of your house training process. Firstly, dry food tends to be more complete and balanced with the correct amount of vital nutrients in it. The ingredients tend to be of better quality as long as you pick the right brand. Plus, dry food helps to keep teeth strong due to being a solid food, and the slightly abrasive nature of the solid food has a natural teeth cleaning effect. It also lasts far longer than cans as you need to feed less of it. Recommended Best Puppy Food For Labs And Large Breeds In this next section we give you 4 of the best foods on the market made from high quality ingredients but still available at a reasonable price. These foods will provide your puppy with all the nutrients they need in just the right mix and quantities, not just so they survive, but so they can truly thrive. Deboned chicken is high quality chicken protein, whereas the chicken and turkey meal is a concentrate. It is nutrient rich with vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin E, vitamin C and vitamin A as well as containing minerals like zinc, iron and calcium. It even has some fruit content like apples and blueberries. The Lactobacillus acidophilus, green tea extract and rosemary extract are all known to help prevent infections. This is a very high-quality food your puppy will truly thrive on and is our top recommendation as the best puppy food for labs. However, if price is no object, K9 is certainly one of the best foods available! K9 Natural Grain-Free Puppy Freeze-Dried Dog Food gives your puppy all the benefits of raw food, aiming for optimum levels of growth and development — not too fast nor stunted — and for lean muscle mass and peak conditioning. Its main ingredient is grass-fed New Zealand beef. And this is rounded out by whole food ingredients like flaxseed, kelp, New Zealand mussel, fruits and veggies, and hoki oil which provides DHA for EPA for healthy brain and eye development. It gets a big thumbs up from us. The first ingredient is bison and is a high quality meat product. The next ingredient is lamb meal, which has a large amount of protein in it being a meat concentrate, percent more than fresh lamb meat. The third highest ingredient is sweet potatoes, which are an excellent source of complex carbs. They contain fiber and beta carotene. In fact, this food consists of approx. This provides your puppy with a source of energy ideal for his busy puppy lifestyle. Overall, this food is highly recommended and your puppy should thrive on it. They also allow regular independent inspections of their manufacturing process and source ingredients the US, EU and NZ. So quality control is well taken care of. The large breed puppy formula contains a scientifically formulated balance of proteins, fats, phosphorous and calcium in just the right amounts and proportions to promote a healthy rate of bone and muscle development, highly important for large breed puppies where excessive nutrients can be just as harmful as malnutrition. The food also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for the health of connective soft tissues which is reassuring for large breeds, and especially Labradors, who can suffer from many joint problems in life. It also contains omega oils for healthy brain development, as well as other fatty acids known to promote healthy skin and coat. So Eukanuba large breed puppy food comes recommended. The fiber in it will help with digestion while it has antioxidants that are known to help keep your dog healthy for many years to come. Royal Canin Breed Specific Labrador Puppy Royal Canin is a very well-known brand with lots of positive reviews from past and present dog owners on Amazon. It has an above average protein content than the minimum recommended for your dog, coming in at 31 percent protein at dry weight. The protein it has comes mostly from chicken by-product meal which is considered somewhat low quality and consists of whatever is left after chickens are slaughtered. However, it does NOT — as you might read elsewhere — consist of anything from feet to beaks. According to dogfoodadvisor. After chicken by-product meal, the second ingredient in this food is brewers rice. The fourth ingredient is corn gluten meal which is a residue left over once most of the useful, starchy carbohydrates have been washed out of it. With such popularity, high ratings and reviews with so many people saying their dogs thrive on this, there must be some truth to it. The third to 5th ingredients are wholesome whole grains that provide high energy from complex carbohydrates that are easy to digest. These are far better than corn and most other sources of carbs found in cheaper foods that are hard for a puppy to get any nutrition from. Out of everything in this product, 40 percent of it is protein, which is higher than average. About 14 percent of it is fat, and of the remainder, 38 percent is carbs. And the omega oils may help reduce risk of developing arthritis. Not only this, but Labradors are a large breed and are more sensitive to nutritional imbalances than smaller breeds. You really do need to get their diet right to do the best for them. Luckily, many brands of food specifically aimed at large breeds and Labradors have been created that provide everything they need in just the right amounts, that are easy for an owner to feed by simply following instructions on the packet. I know there is a lot of conflicting advice out there when it comes to dog food and it can be a nightmare to wade through if trying to find the best puppy food for Labs. So hopefully this article has been of some use to you. A very good resource that does good work for dog food quality awareness. Check them out! Please be aware this page contains affiliate links and Labrador Training HQ receives a small commission if you make a purchase through any such links. This has no effect on the eventual price you pay and we are very grateful for your support. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Lab puppies need a balanced diet with high-quality proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water to ensure proper growth and development. Also, calcium and phosphorus support bone growth; omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin; antioxidants for enhanced immunity; and prebiotics or probiotics for improved digestion. Protein And Fat Content As an owner of a Labrador puppy, keep a check on the amount of protein and fat in their food. A balanced diet with adequate protein content promotes muscle growth, bone development, and healthy brain function. When choosing the best food, look out for pet foods that contain high-quality ingredients rich in animal-sourced proteins such as chicken meal, turkey meal or lamb meal. Avoid dog foods with artificial flavors and preservatives that can cause health complications in your puppy. Avoid foods with meat by-products or fillers like corn gluten meal. Look for brands prioritizing using fresh fruits and vegetables to provide additional nutrients and fiber. Avoid artificial flavors and preservatives. When reading food labels, ensure that protein is one of the first listed ingredients, guaranteeing high-quality dog food. They also need sufficient glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joint development. You can ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients by choosing a breed-specific formula like best purina pro plan for labs recommended by four veterinarians in the USA. Allergies And Intolerances Some common ingredients in dog food, such as beef, corn, soy, fish, and wheat, can cause allergic reactions. If you notice symptoms such as poor skin or coat health after feeding them certain foods or treats, consult a veterinarian immediately. They may recommend a special diet or elimination process to determine the allergen. Budget While high-end, premium dog foods may seem the best option, they can also be expensive. It is a well-known brand that offers both dry and canned food options at reasonable prices Feeding Schedule And Portion Control For Labrador Puppies Learn how to properly feed and control the portion sizes of your Labrador puppy with our helpful feeding guide and puppy schedule chart. Generally, Labrador puppies should be fed times a day until they are six months old, after which you can switch them to twice-a-day feedings. The amount of food you give your pup will depend on their age and weight. Never overfeed your lab because obesity is prevalent in the breed. Therefore, watch portion sizes and adjust accordingly if you notice any significant changes. Most puppies must eat thrice a day until they are six months old. After this time, you can reduce the frequency and switch them to two larger meals daily. Instead, stick to set feeding times and portion sizes recommended by your veterinarian or on the packaging of their dog food brand. Healthy Feeding Practices For best puppy food for labs One of the best ways to ensure proper nutrition is by selecting high-quality dog food that meets all their nutritional needs. In addition to selecting the right type of food, portion control is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight in Labrador puppies. Puppy Feeding Schedule Chart: healthy food for labrador puppy Establishing a proper feeding schedule is key. Age of Puppy.

Known Diseases Epilepsy Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart. Kidney disease Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination polyuria increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite Wobbler syndrome In veterinary medicine, this is the name given to a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the area of the spinal cord or spinal cord nerves in the area of the cervical spine. Cardiomyopathy In large breeds of dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy DCM is by far the most common cardiomyopathy. This results in the deficient or absent synthesis of a certain protein which is an important component of the blood-brain barrier, leading to hypersensitivity to some drugs. Eye diseases Often occur with allergies and intolerances. Metabolic diseases cystinuria Cystinuria is a hereditary metabolic disease. Affected dogs lack a transport protein for certain amino acids protein building blocks. In the kidney, the task of this transport protein is a return transport of amino acids from the urine into the bloodstream. FAQ What is a boxollie? A Boxer-Collie mix is a cross between two purebred dogs, the Boxer and the Collie. This cross is also known as the Border Collie Boxer Mix. How big does a Boxer-Collie mix grow? An adult Boxer-Collie mix can weigh between kg and have a shoulder height of cm? What is the life expectancy of a Boxer-Collie mix? The average life expectancy of a Boxer-Collie mix is 10 to 12 years. What are the exercise needs of a Boxer-Collie mix? A Boxer-Collie mix is an active breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A long walk or a lively play in the garden is enough. What are the grooming needs of a Boxer-Collie mix? A Boxer-Collie mix has medium length fur that sheds moderately throughout the year. Brushing several times a week will help control shedding and keep the coat healthy and beautiful. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Active individuals, families History of Boxer Border Collie Mix There is not a lot of evidence that accurately explains where the Boxollie breed originates from. It is speculated that this crossbreed was designed to eliminate the likelihood of health issues that were commonly present in its parent breeds. Border Collie: Brief History Border Collies are acknowledged to be among the most capable and diligent breeds. Their intelligence, and enthusiasm to fulfill your wishes will make you love them even more. This specific type of dog originated in Scotland. Eventually, it became popular along the English-Scottish border. These canines were often employed to guard and herd flocks of sheep. Their capability in this job was outstanding as they were robust, intelligent and had a strong sense of dedication. C when their predecessors, the Assyrian war dogs, existed. But the modern-day Boxer was developed in Germany during the latter part of the 19th century. Through the years, Boxers have shown amazing capabilities when it comes to a variety of tasks, such as being used as a herding dog, a guard dog, an alarm dog, and even as a guide dog. The Boxollie takes after the Boxer in terms of its overall look. Generally, it has a dense coat that can be either short or medium-length, and it is water-resistant. Its size will depend on which dominant genes it has obtained and can range from medium to large. This breed of dog is exceptionally athletic and intelligent and has an air of cleverness in its bearing. It has a muscular figure that is symmetrically proportionate, and its tail is usually left natural. It has an estimated height of 18 to 22 inches, and a weight of 30 to 45 pounds. This type of canine is of medium size and generally has a solid build. The Boxer on the other hand is a medium-sized breed with a muscular build, measuring between 21 to 25 inches tall, and weighing between 55 and 75 pounds. Based from this information, a Boxollie will typically have a size of medium to big build. This can be accompanied, with a height of around 18 to 25 inches and a weight between 45 and 80 pounds. These may include white, black, black and white, and even gold. If they are properly trained, they can live peacefully with other pets and children in the same household. They are incredibly intelligent. This makes training relatively easily. Intelligence Likewise its Border Collie parent, the Boxollie is an intelligent breed too. They easily understand new commands and even memorize it after 15 to 25 repetitions. This makes a Boxollie as one of the smartest dogs you could have. Energy of Border Collie And Boxer Mix Boxollie canines are a great fit for households that have older kids because of their tendencies to herd and their high energy. These canines have a friendly and gentle nature and rarely display signs of aggressiveness. They are great with children, although they can be a bit too energetic for younger ones and may accidentally knock them over. Thus, constant supervision is still a must from parents. Other Animals The Border Collie Boxer Mix is usually not an aggressive breed and typically gets along well with cats and other animals. Because Boxollies are not originally intended for hunting and generally does not possess a strong drive to chase prey. The heritage of a Border Collie may cause them to display some hunting traits, meaning Boxollies that are not socialized might view smaller pets as animals to herd. This can be avoided by teaching and familiarizing them with socializing from the very start. Strangers These animals take great pleasure in being around their owners and are incredibly steadfast companions. They also have strong sense of protection for their family and abode when it comes to outsiders. Do They Bark A Lot? It is not common for Boxers to bark a lot; if they do, then it is likely due to a legitimate reason. Even though some are not very vocal, they usually have a type of low grumbling sound that is just their way of communicating. Border Collies are a breed that have a tendency to make a lot of noise with their barking. They can be quickly roused by visual stimuli, which is why they bark a lot when they see something that moves rapidly, such as bicycles or skateboards. This particular trait of their parents can be transferred to a Boxollie. Dogs barking can be their way of communication. These particular dogs have a tendency to be extremely devoted to their families and children, making them ideal companions. In addition, they usually get along with other animals well. They can be independent from time to time when the house is loud or there are a lot of people around. Socializing them from a young age can help prevent any unwanted behaviors from forming. They react positively to encouragement and reward, just like all canines. They are usually quite loving and enjoy spending quality time with their owners. It is essential to initiate training of your dog immediately to obey commands such as sit, stay, come, go to their kennel, and to eliminate outdoors. Surprisingly, it is something that you can do yourself even if you are a novice. Initiate a dog obedience routine — find out how you can establish basic foundation before beginning the training. Use games for training — training must be fun for the two of you. Thus, make an effort to integrate games into your training. Learn the value of positive reinforcement — there are countless methods of dog training. But experienced dog trainers would agree that positive reinforcement is the best approach. Compared to other breeds, its shedding is moderate. It is recommended to brush their coat daily using rubber curry brush if the fur is short. If the coat is of medium length, then use a firm bristle brush and a comb. These two work perfectly in removing tangled fur. This helps in maintaining appearance too. If the legs of the dog are feathered, it is best to get them trimmed by a professional groomer. This type of animal is not known for drooling or having any offensive smells. However, their ears, nails, and teeth should still receive proper care. The ears should be examined every week for dirt and wax accumulation. Brushing their teeth daily is recommended and their nails should be trimmed every other week. Unless, they grind down on their own, in which case trimming them monthly should be sufficient. Feeding them a balanced diet, exercising them, and getting them groomed regularly along with regular vet check-ups are all necessary for them to be in optimal condition. All these things are how you can ensure that your Border Collie Boxer mix is healthy and far from any illness. Particularly, the ones that are high in calories and protein. On the safe side, add chondroitin and glucosamine supplements. These are perfect for their joint health which serves as great support for their activeness. However, this figure could be more or less, depending on how you would treat your dog. Of course, attending to their needs and giving their daily requirements add to their vitality. Do the opposite and your dog may not be able to meet their life expectancy. Health Issues Sadly, dogs are not immune to genetic health problems. This includes the Boxer Collie. In fact, these breeds are typically affected by health issues common to its parents. Some of these are elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, as well as cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, you can help your dog to avoid from any suffering by taking them to your vet on regular intervals. A pet groomer has the equipment and know-how that you probably lack. Short-haired breeds rarely need a professional groomer as often as long-haired breeds, but it is a great chance to have your dog checked out thoroughly. They can provide you with advice on how to groom your pup in your own home. Professional groomers can provide information on which products work best, how to keep your pooch relaxed, and which tools are ideal for their kind of fur. Does It Shed A Lot? In comparison with other types of canines, Boxers have a tendency to shed moderately. You will be able to observe the amount of shedding based on the season. To help their fur come off quickly, you can brush them more often. Getting them spayed or neutered will eliminate any distinctions and prevent potential pregnancies, as well as avoid males from straying. When picking either a male or a female pup, you may want to take into account other pets that you already have. Even amongst the congenial and easy-going Boxollie breed, two animals of the same gender might become competitive with one another. Nevertheless, with training and proper socialization, this should not be a major problem. Puppies of Border Collie And Boxer Mix A lot of new dog owners would have thought that the price of buying a new puppy is the only thing that they would have to spend their money on. Truth is, there are underlying costs the moment you brought a new puppy to your home. For instance, you would have to buy them toys, dog accessories like collars and leashes, doing frequent visit to the vet, sourcing quality foods and treats, bringing to a professional groomer to keep them in immaculate shape and so forth. If you are not ready for these expenses, then you may want to reserve the idea of getting a Border Collie Boxer mix for the meantime. Do not work with someone who breeds multiple types of dogs. Someone who claim to be specializing in extraordinary colors, sizes, etc. Take out of your selection any breeders who only allows for cash or credit cards. Also, if they are interviewing interested fur parents regarding their capability to care and raise the dog. On the other hand, if you are someone who has an active lifestyle and loves to have a companion that you can take with your outdoor trips, the Boxollie can make the most of your trip. These dogs are highly energetic and smart. They require time from their owner to give them their daily needs from exercising them, training and socialization. These are all essential elements in ensuring that you can raise a well-mannered dog. Lawrence Lawrence is a genuine dog enthusiast. His personal favorite is the Border Collie. He has vast knowledge about these dogs. Throughout his lifetime, he spent raising and training countless dogs. Eventually, he has come to a unique and deeper understanding of human-dog connection that puts him in a position where he is today. Nonetheless, they are also very energetic due to their working backgrounds. The Boxollie requires plenty of physical activity. If left alone for long , they can develop unacceptable behaviors such as chewing, digging or barking. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Boxer Collies are tolerant of children and they are generally protective of them especially if they have been introduced to each other from a young age. What About Other Dogs? Collie Boxer dogs are known to be non-aggressive, but they should be socialized early , since some can be aggressive towards other dogs. The Border Collie Boxer Mix is not aggressive and generally gets along well with cats and other pets. This is because they were not originally bred for hunting and generally do not have a high prey drive. Image Source Exercise Needs Both parent breeds are known to be quite independent. They also have high intelligence and high energy levels, so constant mental stimulation and physical activity are a must for these pooches. Your Boxollie puppy will be no different. This hybrid dog needs proper daily exercises, such as long walks and quality playtime. Doggie games like Frisbee and Fetch are highly recommended. The Border Collie Boxer Mix also makes a good partner for jogging, running and hiking. They also do well in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and field trials. A secure, fenced-in yard is recommended because both the Border Collie and the Boxer can open latches and doors. Boxers should not engage in strenuous exercises in hot weather conditions since they can experience heatstroke owing to their short snouts. You should also avoid leaving your Boxollie alone for long. Otherwise, you should keep him busy and mentally stimulated by providing him with plenty of interactive dog toys. This makes them easy to train. However, they can also be a bit stubborn , so they need a firm handler who will use lots of positive reinforcements to encourage acceptable behaviors. This will make the puppy comfortable and confident around people and other animals. Both the Boxer and the Border Collie are good candidates for housetraining, so housetraining your Boxollie should be an easy task , provided you use the right strategies, using crate training when necessary. Since both parent breeds shed throughout the year, your Boxollie will also do the same. Brushing should be done based on the length of the coat. You should also brush their teeth, clean their ears and clip the nails as necessary. Lifespan Sociability While hybrid breeds can inherit various traits from their parent breeds, one thing you can be sure of when bringing home a Border Collie Boxer Mix is energy, a ton of it. Both the Boxer and Border Collie are infamous for their almost endless energy reserves, and your Boxollie is unlikely to be much different. This means you need to prepare for daily walks and exercise sessions of at least a couple of hours, and this will take a large chunk of time, commitment, and dedication. They are ideally suited to a home with a large fenced yard where they have a large amount of space to run and play. These dogs are not suited for apartments or small homes without large yards unless they can be taken for vigorous exercise for several hours a day, and even then, they will present a challenge. They are incredibly intelligent. Border Collies are widely agreed upon to be the most intelligent dog on the planet, capable of learning hundreds of unique words and commands. Chaser, a Border Collie belonging to classical musician John Pilley, knows upward of 1, words and can remember the names of thousands of different objects, even years after learning them. Boxers were used in both World Wars. During the First World War, Boxers were one of seven breeds chosen to aid German soldiers as messengers and to carry heavy packs. Boxers are late bloomers. Boxers retain their puppyhood for quite some time, and this can cause difficulty in training them. They only fully mature at around 3 or 4 years old, making them one of the breeds with the longest puppyhood. These dogs need to be kept busy; otherwise, they are prone to a host of misbehavior, including excessive barking, chewing, and attempting to herd whatever they can, including your children! They are quick learners and will excel in training and agility sports, as well as be affectionate and gentle with children. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are kind and gentle dogs that are rarely aggressive and are great with children. While they are generally well-behaved pooches, they may be a bit boisterous for younger children and can easily accidentally knock them over. They are incredibly loyal and make great guard dogs too. That being said, the Border Collie heritage may result in some herding characteristics, and any small pets may be seen as animals to be rounded up. Of course, with early socialization and proper training, this can be avoided. Height: inches at the shoulder Weight: 55 - 70 lb. Lifespan: 10 years Boxer Border Collie Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. Since both parent breeds are family oriented dogs, this guy should make a good companion. They are affectionate towards family and children. They should get along well with other animals. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. Early socialization helps take care of any bad habits that could develop. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Boxer mixed with the Border Collie might be prone to Allergies, hip dysplasia Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. They are pretty easy keepers in this department. Get ready to invest in a good vacuum and keep your floors clean anyways. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? This is a high energy dog that will need that from an owner. As I stated previously, they were bred to work and run all day so they will not be content just laying around. Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog though. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the training requirements? This is an extremely intelligent dog that will be easy to train, however, it might be extremely stubborn. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Catahoulas were created to track and drive feral hogs and cattle when it was time to butcher them, and not surprisingly they are aggressively resolute in their work. This tough yet strikingly beautiful dog can have a spotted, brindle, solid, or patched coat of many colors. Other outstanding physical characteristics are their webbed feet, which allow them to swim well and work in soft, marshy areas, and their eyes, which may be blue, green, brown, or amber. Befitting their heritage as herding and driving dogs, Catahoulas are wary of strangers. Expect to provide this hard-working and independent dog with at least an hour of strenuous exercise daily as well as firm guidance during training. When their exercise and leadership needs are met, Catahoulas are loving, calm, and dedicated companions. Catahoula Leopard Dog Highlights Intelligence: Catahoulas are known for their intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and can be taught a variety of commands. Loyalty: Catahoulas are loyal and devoted companions. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and families. Gentleness: Catahoulas are gentle and affectionate dogs. They are good with children and other pets. Energy level: Catahoulas are high-energy dogs. They need plenty of exercise, such as running, hiking, or swimming. Unique appearance: Catahoulas have a unique spotted coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brindle, red merle, and black merle. Webbed feet: Catahoulas have webbed feet that help them swim and navigate through swamps and marshes. Working dogs: Catahoulas are versatile working dogs. They have been used for hunting, herding, tracking, search and rescue, and therapy work. They are sometimes known as Catahoula curs, Catahoula leopard curs, or Catahoula hounds, but the name was officially changed to Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog when they became the state dog of Louisiana. The Catahoula was used to track and round up the wild hogs that roamed the forests, hence the name hog dog that they sometimes goes by. The breed was named state dog of Louisiana in .The United Kennel Club was the first national dog registry to recognize the Catahoula, in .The Catahoula is a unique dog with a fascinating heritage and strong working ability. It is not suited for life with every family, but when you make a commitment to one and form a bond with them, you have a steadfast protector and companion for life. Catahoula Leopard Dog Size Males, 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and 65 to 90 pounds; females, 20 to 24 inches at the shoulder and 50 to 65 pounds. They are wary of strangers but never shy. With family members, they are loving and protective. Males can be aggressive toward other male dogs, and Catahoulas in general work aggressively, a necessity in rounding up unruly hogs or cattle. Catahoulas are excellent watchdogs and will bark a warning or otherwise go on alert at the approach of strangers. Treat them firmly but fairly. They do not accept mistreatment or physical abuse. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Socialization helps ensure that your Catahoula puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Catahoula Leopard Dog Health Catahoulas are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be subject to certain health conditions. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Deafness : Because Catahoulas carry the gene for merle coloration, which is linked to deafness, unilateral one-sided and bilateral both sides hearing loss is also a concern in the breed. Catahoula Leopard Dog Care The Catahoula is not a dog that can be tied out in the yard and left on their own. They need companionship and exercise and should be as familiar with the inside of your home as the yard. Underground electronic fences are not suitable for this breed. A Catahoula will ignore the shock if they see another dog approaching their territory, and the lack of a solid barrier means that other dogs can enter the yard, which can lead to a serious fight. Expect to give them at least an hour of exercise daily. Engage their mind with training sessions or fun activities. Begin training the day you bring your Catahoula puppy home. They are intelligent and learns quickly, but they need a strong leader. For best results, be patient, firm, and consistent to develop the strongest bond with your Catahoula. Let them know what you expect, and then let them go to work. Always look for behaviors you can reward instead of punishing them for infractions. Regular training practice and social interaction will help ensure that you live together happily. A bored or lonely Catahoula is destructive in their attempts to entertain himself. If you are consistent and follow a schedule, housetraining comes easily to the Catahoula. Never use a crate as a place of punishment. Leash training is also important, especially since your Catahoula will be a strong puller. They have a strong prey drive, so never walk them off leash any place that they might encounter unknown dogs or other animals. Early, frequent socialization is a must for this breed, especially if you want your Catahoula to be friendly toward or at least tolerate other animals, especially other dogs. Visit many different dog-friendly stores, parks, and events, and introduce them to as many people as possible, both in your home and in public With proper training, consistency, and socialization, your Catahoula will be a wonderful family member who protects and loves you unconditionally. To avoid gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as bloat , withhold food and water for at least an hour after vigorous exercise. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Keep your Catahoula in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Catahoula, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Its texture may range from smooth to coarse. Catahoulas are found in many coat colors and patterns. They may have color points, or trim, located on the chest, cheeks, above the eyes, or on the legs, underbody or under the tail. The leopard pattern has a base color with contrasting spots of one or more other colors. Solids have a single coat color. Brindles may have a light or dark base coat color with contrasting stripes. Catahoulas with a patchwork coat may or may not have one predominant solid color with one or more different size patches of different colors and shades placed randomly on the body. Rich, deep colors are preferable to the lighter colors, but no coat color or pattern is more valuable than another. The coat sheds lightly to moderately year-round. A bath is usually necessary only a couple of times a year. Daily is better. Trim their nails once or twice a month, or as needed. Handle their paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside their mouth and ears. The Catahoula is suitable for families with children, but despite their family loyalty and protectiveness, they should always be supervised in the presence of toddlers or young children. They can be rambunctious and may accidentally knock small children down. And like any dog, they may mistake children at eye level as attempting to challenge them. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any mouthing, biting, or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. As adults, they may require more of an adjustment period before they welcome the company of another dog. To ensure the best relationship, choose a dog of the opposite sex. Make introductions in a neutral area away from your home. Catahoula Leopard Dog Rescue Groups Catahoulas are sometimes acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Other Catahoulas end up in rescue because their owners have divorced or died. Height: 18 - 24 inches at the shoulder Weight: 45 - 70 lb. They can be an inquisitive little fella so keep on the lookout for that behavior! All dogs need attention and don't want to be left alone. That's why you have a pet, right? Plan on putting forth effort to socialize her as this will reap dividends in the long run. Please use always use positive reinforcement even though they can have a mind of their own. Enjoy being with your new mixed breed and love the relationship you will have with them. Catahoula Leopard Dog Poodle Standard Mix Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. We obviously recommend that you look for a reputable animal rescue in your area to find your new mixed breed. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Catahoula Leopard Dog mixed with the Poodle Standard might be prone to hip dysplasia, deafness, eye problems, among others. Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Even if you know the breed, sometimes it is hard to tell if it will be a heavy shedder or a light shedder. Either way, Get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This mix will more than likely have a high energy level. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. I good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet.

They could take on traits from just one parent or any combination of traits from both of them. An Akita tends to be loyal, devoted, and dedicated to their families. They do tend to get along well with children, but they tend to be wary of strangers and they have a high prey drive. Although they tend to be quiet dogs, they will bark to alert you. This makes them good watchdogs. On top of that, Akitas have an instinct to guard and protect. This makes socialization and training early and often particularly important for this breed. You may be able to expect a similar temperament in your Akita Mix. However, the other dog breed in the mix could affect their temperament. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed can help prepare you for all of the possibilities. Meeting the mother dog can also give you an idea of what temperament to expect in your Akita Mix puppy. Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs that can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need to be happy and healthy. Due to their protective instincts and high prey drive, they should only be let off-leash in securely fenced areas. A mixed-breed dog can inherit any combination of the potential health concerns common to one or both of the parent breeds. From the Akita side, the potential health concerns to be aware of in an Akita Mix include hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, skin conditions, progressive retinal atrophy, and acquired myasthenia gravis. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross. Also, talk to them about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Although Akitas love their family and prefer to be near them, they also have an independent nature. They are highly intelligent and pick up training quickly, but they can also have a stubborn streak. This can be difficult for a first-time dog owner to navigate on their own. The other parent breed could balance this out, but you still need to be prepared for a potentially hard-headed pooch. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. Regardless of owner experience, puppy training classes can still be a good idea as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. Akitas have a dense double coat that will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and moving to daily brushing during seasonal shedding can help your dog be more comfortable and contain a lot of the loose fur to your brush. Bathing is on an as-needed basis. Monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs. Practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. Akitas tend to have a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually sufficient for these dogs. The other parent breed could affect the exercise needs for an Akita Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed, you can get a good idea of what sort of energy range to prepare for in your puppy. A fully-grown Akita usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other dog breed in the mix can seriously affect the size you could see in a fully-grown Akita Mix. So, make sure you talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. Akitas generally live for years. The other parent breed in the cross could have an effect on this for an Akita Mix. Talking to the breeder about it can help clarify to what extent it could be affected if at all. Featured Akita Mix Article. Leash Manners - She is still learning. Socialization - Duchess needs continued socialization throughout her life with people of all ages, genders and races as well as other animals including dogs and cats if she is to grow up to be a well socialized adult dog. Energy Level and Exercise - Duchess is very high energy and will need a lot of exercise and discipline. Daily Structure and Schedule - She will require structure with someone experienced with the breed. Temperament - Duchess is an alpha dog and needs someone who understands her needs. Obedience Training - She is very intelligent but also high energy so will require a lot of patience and guidance with obedience training. Behaviors - Duchess is a puppy so she still behaves just like one -- mouthing, chewing, jumping, etc. Known for their tremendous loyalty and courage, they are calmly confident, but not hostile. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when it is necessary. Serious and almost human in his intelligence, they have a high learning ability. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. A quick daily brushing is best unless hair in the house is not a problem. They should be bathed rarely, only once or twice a year to avoid skin oil depletion. Shepherds have a life expectancy around 13 years. Life Span Did You Know? The Akita is a striking working breed that originated in the Akita province of Japan during the s. These dogs were bred to protect their territory and families from the Yezo bear that overran the small island. In addition to watchful guardians and protectors, Akitas also worked as hunting dogs. Later given to the Emperor, the breed became a symbol of good luck, specifically happiness, good health, and a long life, throughout Japanese culture. Not only did this strong and dedicated breed protect Japanese royalty, but they were also used to hunt large game, such as deer, wild boar, and bear. Helen Keller was gifted an Akita while visiting Japan in and is credited with bringing the first Akita to the United States. One of these was Taro, a male that was the first Akita to be registered in the U. One of the facts about Akitas is that it is still considered a symbol of good luck in Japan to own an Akita. These dogs make popular companion dogs and are known for being alert, loyal, and fearless, which makes them excellent watchdogs. The Akita is an extremely loyal dog that is affectionate with their families and protective of them. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with children and can get along well with other animals that are part of the family. Akitas are one of the dog breeds that are good guard dogs. They are generally quiet dogs and use barking to alert you. They are good watchdogs because of this and their protective nature. Due to their protective nature, they are naturally suspicious of strange people and animals. Their high prey drive can be a challenge with smaller prey-type animals. An Akita may do well with smaller animals they were raised with, socialized with, and that they recognize as part of their family Even well-socialized, an Akita may remain wary of strangers and may be aloof with them even after being introduced. It can take a while for an Akita to warm up to someone new, but once they recognize you as someone familiar and safe, they will open up and let you see their playful, affectionate side. Poor socialization is one of the common causes of aggression in dogs. This intelligent breed should be socialized early and often with people, especially children, other dogs, and pets. If you decide to bring an Akita into your family, you will need to start socialization as early as possible and continue to socialize your puppy into adulthood. This will help them have a more favorable temperament when encountering unusual situations. Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs. They do best in homes with fenced yards where they run. Although they can adapt to apartment living if enough time is dedicated daily to exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they are generally not best suited for it. Their protective nature can make them territorial. This, paired with their high prey drive, means they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. As a fluffy, double-coated dog breed, the Akita thrives in cold weather and is one of the dog breeds that love winter. As with other dogs, they are sensitive to heat. They also get bored easily and do not like to spend a lot of time alone. Although they are one of the most independent dog breeds and can be aloof at times, they thrive on human companionship and like spending time around their families. They may be okay with some alone time, but mostly, they prefer to have their favorite humans within their sight so they can observe quietly and protect them. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Akitas can include hip dysplasia, acquired myasthenia gravis, thyroid issues, progressive retinal atrophy, and some immune systems disorders that can affect the skin and hair. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Akita puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The national breed club recommends a hip evaluation, an ophthalmologist evaluation, and a thyroid evaluation at a minimum. Akitas are also one of the breeds that are at a higher risk for bloat in dogs. Bloat can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips. Akitas are highly intelligent and loyal dogs. Although they pick up on things quickly, they are also independent and can be quite stubborn. As such, they are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners. Novice owners can successfully socialize and train an Akita, but puppy training classes or enlisting a professional dog trainer are recommended. The Akita has a soft and dense undercoat and an outer coat that is straight and coarse. Although they tend to shed a little, they will blow their undercoat and shed a lot when the seasons change. Weekly brushing and daily brushing during seasonal shedding are usually enough to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Although the Akita is not a high-energy dog, they do still require a moderate amount of exercise each day to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime or time to run are usually enough. Because they get bored easily and are sturdy dogs, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing and the vet clears them for high-impact activities to prevent damage to developing bones and joints. Fully-grown Akitas usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. On average, females stand inches tall and weigh pounds while males stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Akitas generally live for years on average. In Japan, a statue of an Akita is associated with health, happiness, and a long life. It is common to give a small statue of the dog breed to a family who has just had a child. When it comes to famous dogs , Hachiko, or Hachi, is the most famous Akita. He waited for his owner to come from work at the train station every day. One day, his owner passed away unexpectedly and never came off the train. Hachiko spent 9 years at the train station waiting for his owner to come home. His story has been told in many books, documentaries, movies, and more. Featured Akita Article.

As a hybrid dog, the Golden Irish will inherit the physical and behavioral traits of both its parent dog breeds, however, not all Golden Irish dogs will inherit the same characteristics even if from the same litter. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with both the Golden Retriever and the Irish Setter if you are planning on adopting a Golden Irish as the breed can have more characteristics of one parent breed than the other. Golden Irish are known for being very loyal and affectionate dogs with exceptional agility. They are very friendly and should make a wonderful companion or family dogs. Golden Irish are active dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Exercise is essential as it helps them burn off excess energy, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen their muscles and bones, improve their cardiovascular health, and prevent behavioral issues such as boredom and destructive behaviors. The intensity necessary may vary depending on their age, health, and lifestyle. Responsible dog owners should ensure that their furry friends get plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Important Notice!!!!!! Due to scams and imposters, please make sure and submit your deposits and payments only via this website! Never send money directly to an email, PayPal, Venmo, or other accounts not listed on this website!! We never ask for any remaining funds, until the day you pick up your puppy, or the day prior to shipping. After a puppy is reserved its is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. Transportation We will provide transportation for your puppy if needed and have had great success with our puppies traveling all over the USA. We handle all travel arrangements and details. Pet Nanny flights may be more expensive depending on location. Contact Us. If you have gotten a puppy from us before, she is the person you interacted with. She has been the photographer, website editer, email and phone person and the general PR manager. In March of Ronda was diagnosed with an agressive form of cancer with a bad prognosis. Her family was hopefull for recovery though. Ted has always been a part of Red Retriever but more behind the scenes. We appriciate your understanding going forward as Ted learns the ropes of the website, photos and correspondence. Intelligent and beautiful as the Irish Setter and loving and loyal as the Golden Retriever. Hybrid vigor, in a beautiful loving companion. Interestingly the cross is quite similar to early golden retrievers as seen in this painting. The Golden Retriever has been bred for lighter colors in recent years because this is favored by the AKC. Our Golden Irish puppies tend to be darker in color. How'd we start? Growing up my wife's family raised Pekingese. She loved their dogs and the litters of puppies that came and went. We wanted our children to have a family dog and to share the puppy experience with them and so we chose to raise Golden Retrievers. My family had a Golden Retriever growing up. My wife always dreamed of having a Golden Retriever or Irish Setter. We got our first Golden in and named her Mandy. We had 4 wonderful children ages 7 to 17 and our lovely dog Mandy. Mandy went everywhere with us. We lived on acres along the Calapooia River where the children would explore with Mandy at their side. Our 2 boys were passionate about the outdoors and loved to hunt and wanted a specific dog to train. It wasnt hard to convince their mom, but took a little longer to convince me. But convince me they did. They chose a male and of course named him 'Big Red'. The boys did an amazing job training the 3 dogs. We had the 4 dogs and plenty time and attention to offer them with the energy and passion from the 4 children. Cody and Mandy had their first litter of puppies in .The puppies were all healthy and delightful. The experience was just as my wife remebered as a child and she was happy that our children were able to enjoy the same experience. It was rewarding to place the puppies in wonderful homes. The pleasure and excitment the families portrayed as they picked up their puppy was addicting. The friendships we gained were rich. Ginger, trained by Josiah, was the cleverest dog we ever had. We were planning to breed Ginger with Cody. In the summer of Ginger came into heat so we would put Ginger and Cody in seperate kennels, on a cement slab, when we went to town. We were waiting for her to be in midcycle to breed her. I came home at dusk, one night, and let her out and she immediatly disappeard. We ran for a flashlight and found her in Big Red's Kennel. Big Red was our Irish Setter. We were devastated and felt like we had failed as breeders. However, we found that the puppies were extremely smart and farther advanced as they aged compared to our Pure Goldens as puppies. They were much calmer than most Irish Setters, and were more athletic than most Golden Retrievers. We knew these dogs would be a hit, and they have been. The first families to contact us were families specifically looking for the mix. They shared their stories of growing up with Golden Irish Mixes. Over and Over we heard how they were the best family dog they ever had. Why we Continue The Golden Irish was not merely something stumbled on by accident. The original accident was precipitated by a years long love of both the Golden Retriever and the Irish Setter. I was fascinated with the grace and freedom that contrasted the Irish Setter from more conventional setters in the story. He, rather, romanticized the hunt as a thing natural to the dog and foreign to the dogs human companion. Big Red knew what he was doing when he hunted. Big Red was the master hunter and Danny was his mere apprentice. Irish Setters can be strong willed. They are intensely loving and loyal but they do not have the level of automatic obedience seen in some breeds. They are majestic animals who do require some work during training to reach their potential. Unfortunately, because as the world has urbanized, the required space for an Irish Setter to shine has become rare, and this magnificent breed has seen declining popularity. Irish Setters are creatures of the open fields and the ubiquity of automobiles has ensured open fields are rare. We are fortunate to live in an area of the country still rural enough to allow the Irish Setter to run. But even we have to find time and space to give our dogs this opportunity. After almost 20 years experience with both Goldens and Irishes I have concluded that the main character trait differentiating the Golden Retriever and Irish Setter is patience. The Golden Retriever was bred to patiently wait for the hunt. The Irish Setter was bred to go out and make the hunt happen. Both love to chase things. Both can have seemingly boundless energy. Both are loyal companions. The Golden Retriever will wait for the ball to be thrown and the Irish Setter will grab the ball and expect to be chased. The Irish Setter is proactively invoking the hunt, whereas the Golden Retriever is awaiting its arrival. We were no experts at first and have learned a lot in 20 years. It turns out the patience of the Golden Retriever tends to be inherited by the Hybrid making them more suitable for Urban environments. It also turns out that the grown dogs can be stunningly beautiful. We have improved our breeding over the years and no longer hesitantly advertise. Through our hard won experience we are able to consistently breed Golden Irishes to our own very high standards. I recommend looking at the images page to see some of the stunning photos we have collected over the years. We have been raising Golden Retriever Irish Setter Hybrids for more than 15 years and have insight that only comes through experience. Packer Pictured above as an adult and a puppy Packer is one of our favorite puppies from our first litter. He went to a family in Alaska who were kind enough keep in contact and send us pictures. Packer and his family came to visit us in on our new property. We have been on the Blue Mountains above Weston, Oregon going on 7 years. Shipping We can ship your puppy almost anywhere in the continental United States. Prices vary depending on the region and exact address. And… a few other things. Contract A contract must be completed by anyone interested in purchasing a puppy. If you are interested in reviewing the contract, please contact us. I wanted to give you an update. I named her Lyla. Lyla has helped me during my cancer treatments. She is the best dog ever! She never leaves my side, I just wanted to let you know how much I think of her. Lyla is the best dog I have ever had! Thank you. Summer joined our family almost 3 years ago and she could not have been more of a perfect dog. She is an irish-golden hybrid. I think she has the best of both breeds in her. She is the BEST guard dog with a very loud bark, but she wouldn't hurt a fly. She loves digging holes on sandy beaches, catching waves in the ocean, cats as well as cat toys , tennis balls, and cuddling. I cannot tell you how many people ask me, "How much do you want for her? She is the sweetest, most beautiful and well-behaved dog I have ever come across. I couldn't imagine life without her so I thought I would let you know how much she means to me. Hard to believe he will be 2 years old this Christmas. He is full of personality and lots of energy! Thank you so much, he fills my heart with so much laughter and joy everyday! She is an absolutely beautiful dog. Every time we are out with her people come up to meet her - she LOVES people and kids and is very sweet. Attached is a recent picture of her, and a picture of her featured in our local stormwater Management Public Service announcements! She has a wonderful disposition, very loving and affectionate. Her big brother, our Collie, taught her how to gnaw on sticks and carry them around with pride. They love to play together and are typical siblings, vying for attention. Lucy is full of energy so we walk a lot and take her to nearby parks to run.Thank you for sharing her with us.We've attached a few pictures of Nola, we are so in love! She is so sweet and eager to learn. She knows "sit", "lay down", "wait" and "come" already. Next week we'll be attending her first Puppy Kindergarten training class with Nick and I and tonight she will be going to her first Puppy Party where she will play with other puppies under 12 months. Nola is absolutely wonderful and has adjusted well to the city, we take her to Grant park just down the street where she loves running around on the grass.Dianna and Nick S. This cross gives us a hybrid dog that has the best of both breeds. This is otherwise known as hybrid vigor. Our parent lines have all been tested to ensure that they are healthy. Since this cross is not a purebred it is referred to as a Golden Irish puppy, Irish Golden puppy or an Irish Retriever puppy. We have been a part of raising this breed for more than 15 years. We have concentrated our efforts on this cross to bring you a puppy from our home in northwestern Indiana to your home! Starting in , we began raising purebred Irish Setters. While not a cross we plan to make often, it is one that we plan to raise. The Irish Setters that we raise come from many generations of champion bloodlines who were show and bench. We are conveniently located in Indiana, about half-way between Chicago and Indianapolis. Generally, we use American Airlines out of Chicago. Our Golden Irish puppies live from coast to coast! We have Golden Irish puppies living in their forever homes from Washington D. We also have many living closer to home in Chicago, Illinois and the surrounding midwest! In other words, shipping our Golden Irish puppies has been a popular option especially for those who do not wish to make a long road trip to pick up their puppy. We at Golden Ridge Hi-Breds are comfortable with shipping our Golden Irish puppies via these professional pet carrying airlines. We are willing to arrange to ship your puppy to you, if this your best option. In order to give you the best of quality in socialization, we follow the socializing techniques that are taught by Jan Fennell in the Dog Listener. Golden Ridge Hi-Breds Offers. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of characteristics from either or both parents, a Golden Irish tends to be a friendly, social, affectionate, and energetic dog that loves spending time with their families. Although the Golden Irish is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. Golden Irish are great for single owners and for families. They are loyal to their favorite humans and also love to meet new people. Because they are friendly, playful, and love attention, they tend to get along well with children and tend to make great playmates for them. They also tend to get along well with other dogs, but can have a high prey drive. As long as they have been socialized well with smaller pets in the household, they tend to be fine. But, they may still chase them from time to time. Golden Irish also tend to be open and friendly with strangers as long as they are properly socialized and trained. A Golden Irish is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their high energy and urge to chase makes them a better fit for larger homes with fenced-in yards where they can run. But, as long as you dedicate plenty of time every day to giving them the exercise and mental stimulation they need, they can adapt to living in an apartment or a home without a yard. They tend to do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. They do relatively well in the cold. But, depending on how harsh the winter is, you may need some winter dog products to help protect their paws and keep them warm while out on walks. Because they thrive on attention, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as mixed-breed dogs can take any combination of traits from their parents, the same is true for health conditions common to the parent breeds. They could inherit a mix, all from one, all from both, or none. They can also be prone to developing allergies. As a barrel-chested breed, they are also at risk for bloat. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parent breeds. You can also ask about any available health clearances or test results. The Golden Irish is a highly intelligent dog breed. They are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. But, they can become bored easily and may inherit a little bit of an independent streak from their Irish Setter parent. In general, these dogs are a good fit for owners of any experience level. If you find yourself with an independently-minded Golden Irish or their energetic personality offers a challenge, you can always enroll in puppy training classes to help you manage it. Puppy training classes tend to be a good idea regardless of whether you actually need them. Not only do they strengthen the bond you have with your puppy, but they also often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. Plus, your Golden Irish will love the chance to make new friends. A Golden Irish tends to have a long, silky coat that sheds moderately year-round. Bathing is on an as-needed basis. Ideal dental care for dogs starts with brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day. This can help prevent painful dental diseases, like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss, later in life. Vet-approved dental hygiene chews and a dental care diet formulated for your dog can help supplement your efforts. The Golden Irish is a high-energy dog breed that requires a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for this dog. But, they will also likely be up for more activity if you are. These dogs also tend to be versatile and athletic. So, once puppies finish growing , you can try a bunch of different activities to see what you and your dog like best. They tend to love trips to the dog park. Swimming, running, playing frisbee or fetch, hiking, training for dog sports, and more can all be great activities to try once your Golden Irish has finished growing and developing. A fully-grown Golden Irish usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Irish generally lives for years. Golden Irish Puppies for Sale.

Pugs require attention, but should also have a space of their own in which they feel comfortable when you are not home or are otherwise occupied. Provide your pug with an area of its own including a bed and blankets, some toys, and easy access to food and fresh water. This way, even if you cannot pay attention to your pug for a moment, they do not feel alone. Remember that pugs are sensitive to very hot temperatures and rapid temperature changes. Avoid setting up their space in areas with continued direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. Pugs are prone to nervousness and anxiety. You can help them calm down by being consistent in your daily routine. This means scheduling feeding times, walks, play times, and quiet times as close to the same time every day as possible. Because of this, it is important to schedule a vet check as soon as you bring your new pug home. It is important for your pug to be seen by a veterinarian regularly so that it can get preventative veterinary care. A bi-annual check up will ensure that your dog stays up to date on immunizations, preventative medications, and that any emerging health problems can be dealt with quickly. Younger pugs may need to see the vet more often until they are spayed or neutered and have completed their first course of shots. Your vet will help you work out a preventative care schedule for things like annual shots, heartworm treatments, parasite elimination, vaccinations, microchipping, and teeth cleanings, all of which are important parts of keeping your pug healthy. This is especially important if you have children in the house. Teach your children how to recognize when your dog is anxious or fearful, so that they know when to back off. They will want to be with you. Have a crate or bed next to your bed for at least the first few weeks while you get them into a Puppy night-time routine. Here is how to get a puppy to sleep through the night. Alone Training Teaching your Pug puppy that they can be totally fine being left alone can be done with stuffed chew toys, time and patience. Remember to do it slowly to avoid any stress! Toilet Training Training Practically every website you read may tell you that Toilet training your Pug puppy can be a challenge. As with alone training, start sooner rather than later. Of course, if they run into any birds, butterflies and hear planes flying over, it will be great for them to get acquainted already. Have fun gathering surfaces with different textures for them to explore, like synthetic grass, tiles, and soil. Use treats! Remember to use lots of treats and praise when training. They love making your tail wag! Repeat their name to them a lot in the first week, so it really starts to click. Recall — How to teach your Pug puppy to come back when called — This is important for safety. Pugs generally stay close, but they can be very friendly and want to run up to people and other dogs for a bit of a cuddle, so a good recall will always help. But they can enjoy fetch games on a smaller scale, get on the floor and interact and play with your Pug puppy to learn what they enjoy. This will help to avoid resource guarding. Husbandry Tasks Pugs love affection but should be handled with care. Be mindful to not treat them like toys. Not going to blame children to think they are toys though — the resemblance is uncanny. To do this we want to teach them that hands will do nice things to them so use plenty of treats when handling your puppy. Week 2 — Training your Pug puppy Week 2 already! But, owning a Pug does come with some challenges. Since Pugs are prone to carrying excess weight, this brings in the care elements of both eating a healthy diet and following an appropriate exercise schedule; though this can be tricky, since Pugs must be exercised with care in regard to both duration and intensity. Pugs have thick coats of fur with heavy shedding, lots of wrinkles that need to stay clean, and are generally prone to skin sensitivities. This all requires proper grooming and upkeep. Aside from this, is the general care that applies to every dog. While many owners do this as part of the excitement and preparation of bringing a new pup into the household, this is something that should be done on a regular basis throughout your Pug's life. This can lead to accidentally swallowing things, toxic poisoning, or choking. Proofing the house involves removing small items from the floor, placing cords out of reach or wrapping them in cord protectors, finding new places for shoes and other objects that may be chewed, and placing child-proof locks on any lower cabinets that a Pug may be able to access. The Pug is prone to skin yeast infections, eye issues, and is a heavy shedder, so this a breed that requires lots of grooming. It is best to stick to a schedule in regard to these care tasks. Baths - Bathe you Pug once every 3 weeks, even if your puppy or dog does not appear to be dirty. This will help prevent bad odors , keep skin properly moisturized, and loosen dead hairs from the coat. Young pups can be given a bath in the kitchen sink and older adults can be placed in the bathtub. Because the Pug has sensitive skin, use a shampoo that has a pH between 6. A terrific shampoo to use on Pugs is Earthbath Shampoo which has plant-based cleansers and no additives. The Oatmeal and Aloe formula is ideal for just about Pug since it works to keep skin in great shape. Don't forget about a wash-out conditioner. Hair cuticles open during the shampooing process and a conditioner smooths them down. Eye maintenance - Pug's eyes are large and slightly bulging which means they are prone to picking up debris that can irritate the eyes or scratch the cornea. Small food particles are a top culprit. Keep the eye area clean by wiping it at least once a day and as often as after each meal. For this, you can use the same type of wipe that you have for your Pug's wrinkles see next tip. Wrinkle maintenance - Pugs have lots of deep wrinkles on their head and face making these areas prone to skin infection, so attention must be given to keep these folds clean and dry. Wipe the wrinkles at least once a day, and up to 3 times a day by opening each fold and wiping it with a grooming wipe. If you are looking for a good grooming wipe, Earthbath All-Natural Grooming Wipes are excellent for cleaning wrinkles, wiping the eye area, and to spot-clean a Pug in between baths. Brushing - Pugs are heavy shedders, a lot of the dead hairs will stay lodged in the coat and some will fall to the floor. So, even if you do not notice much shedding, it's important to brush your Pug on a regular basis. Young puppies can be brushed once a week, but adult Pugs should be brushed at least every other day and as often as once per day. Use a tool that will reach down through this breed's thick coat and pull out all the loose and dead fur. While you may be envisioning using a brush, a grooming glove like the Delomo Pet Grooming Glove works very well on a Pug's dense coat. This has over grooming tips that latch onto dead hairs and debris. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed that is very prone to breathing issues. Using a collar when on leash, which places pressure on the trachea, is near guaranteed to exacerbate this. So, part of caring for a Pug involves using accessories that do not impede breathing. For this reason, a harness should be used any time a Pug is on a leash. Harnesses displace tension over the shoulders, back, and chest, leaving the neck free. This is a step-in design just the front legs are placed through the holes, so nothing has to slip over the head , there is an easy-close adjustable Velcro flap on the back, and it is made with air-mesh to keep a Pug cool and comfortable. What you choose to feed your Pug will have both short and long-term consequences, affecting everything from weight maintenance to allergies to intestinal health. Pugs do best with a dry kibble as opposed to a wet canned food; a dry formula tends to keep stools firm and is better for the teeth. Puppies should be fed 3 times a day and this can transition over to twice per day at the 9-month mark. Several dry snacks should be given in between meals and moist treats can be given to reward good behavior such as house training and obeying commands. This breed generally has a very hearty appetite and this, along with their intolerance for extended exercise, makes it easy to gain excess weight. Pugs also tend to have sensitive stomachs and are prone to skin reactions from food additives. Therefore, aim to provide all-natural foods that have no chemical preservatives, no artificial flavoring or dyes, and no by-products, high grain counts, generic meats or oils, corn, soy, or other cheap fillers. If you are not sure what rating your Pug's current dog food has, a good place to check this is Dog Food Advisor which rates the quality of hundreds of brands. And, if you are looking for a good kibble, one recommended brand is Wellness Complete for Small Breeds. For snacks and training treats, Wellness offers several good choices in their line, and if you have an adult Pug and you are working on helping them keep off excess pounds, a good low-calorie option is Fruitables Skinny Minis Dog Treats. Pugs need to drink 1. The tap water in many regions of the US, the UK, Canada and other countries is either outright unsafe or improperly monitored. A number of studies have found drugs in tap water including contraceptive medications, Prozac, Naproxen, Ibuprofen and even illegal drugs; these contain fine particles that are not caught by municipal filtration systems. Other toxins include Chromium-6 a known carcinogen , fluoride which is toxic to canines , chlorite which can cause central nervous problems and HCB which can cause can cause liver disease and skin lesions. And, heavy metals are also an issue. So, for this care tip you can offer bottled spring water, a filtering device that connects your kitchen tap, or a more portable device like the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher. Pugs are prone to bloat, a dangerous and potentially fatal twisting of the stomach. Raised bowls are a contributing factor, as well as eating or drinking too fast or too close to a bout of exercise. For this reason, place food and water in floor-level bowls. If your Pug tends to gulp down his food or water quickly, use a slow-feeder bowl. After eating a meal, do not take your Pug out for exercise for at least one hour. Another element to consider is that stainless-steel bowls are recommended since plastic bowls can cause allergic reactions to either the material itself or to dyes and tend to more easily harbor bacteria, fits the requirements of both height and material. When saliva and tiny food particles mix into water, this creates a slimy film in the dish, which can lead to a dog avoiding it. With food bowls, caked on food can lead to a buildup of bacteria and even mold. Make it a habit to wash both of your Pug's dishes with hot water and soap every day. Since dogs can be very protective of their bowls, a good time to do this is in the evening, after dinner or once your Pug has gone to sleep. Despite their reputation for being lazy, Pugs can have a good amount of energy. And, you'll want to meet this by keeping your Pug moving along, for several reasons: Exercise plays an important role in a Pug's physical health; it's good for the heart and lungs, regulates metabolism, helps maintain proper muscle composition, boosts the immune system, and can keep certain diseases at bay including canine diabetes and even some forms of cancer. Exercise also plays a vital role in a dog's mental health; it allows a dog to release any restlessness that bottles up and allows for desensitization and socialization to all outside elements. At the same time, too much exertion in either duration or intensity can lead to breathing difficulties or overheating for this brachycephalic breed. So, the goal for this care element is to exercise your Pug on a regular basis while keeping in mind your dog's limitations. Pugs do best with at least two walks per day. Each session should last a minimum of 20 minutes, but can extend to 45 minutes or even longer if your Pug is game. Breaks should be taken at the halfway mark of a short walk, every 15 to 20 minutes for a longer walk, or any time that a Pug is breathing noticeably heavier than normal. Bring your Pug into the shade and offer fresh water, ensuring that breathing is back to normal before starting up again. Light to moderate cardio sessions can also be added in, with a rousing game of fetch being the easiest to play and one that most dogs love. Pugs are sensitive to seasonal changes in temperature and some care elements will need to be adjusted. Summer - Hot humid weather makes summertime care a bit tricky with Pugs. Breathing issues are more pronounced and it's more difficult to keep a Pug active. It can help to take your little guy or gal for walks in the early morning and then later in the evening, avoiding the hottest parts of the day. You can help your Pug stay cool by offering lots of water and refreshing treats like frozen blueberries or raspberries. Stay aware of hot walking surfaces which can cause burns to a dog's paws. Take routes in the shade when possible and use a paw wax to offer a layer of protection. Another helpful care tip is to give your Pug a cooling mat to rest on. The Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Pet Pad works by drawing excess heat away from the body, is self-activating you don't have to plug it in , and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Winter - Plunging temperatures and slippery weather conditions can make wintertime care a bit challenging as well. Fortunately, Pugs have thick coats which help them stay warm in the winter, but never-the-less, many don't like to go out when it's snowy and cold. And, even with dense fur, dogs that are outside for too long, particularly when it's below freezing, are vulnerable to developing hypothermia. So, continue to take your Pug out for their regular exercise sessions, but limit this on days with heavy winter precipitation or below-freezing temperatures. Another aspect to keep in mind is that arid winter air can lead to issues with dry skin. Be sure you are using a hydrating shampoo see care tip 2: Baths and apply a paw wax every two weeks to offer better traction and keep the paw pads in good shape. The Pug is prone to certain issues related to the joints, bones, and ligaments including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. In addition to this, all dogs age 8-years and up suffer from some level of osteoarthritis and this is more common with breeds that have the aforementioned issues. For this reason, supplying your Pug with a quality bed to rest and sleep on that provides good cushioning and proper support for the body is vital. This should be an appropriately sized orthopedic memory foam bed with at least a 2-inch base. Either a flat mattress or a bolster bed will work and sometimes dogs do have a preference. Because Pugs tend to snore and may have other sleep-related breathing issues, like sleep apnea, being able to place their head on a bolstered cushion which helps extend the neck can be helpful. This also has a non-slip backing and the cover is machine-washable. There are lots of effective toys that can help your Pug in a number of ways and it's always better to have just a few that do their job than a ton that are ignored. Teething puppies need teething toys that help them scratch their itchy gums and soothe the discomfort of erupting teeth. Pugs of all ages that enjoy chewing should be given durable chew toys that they find pleasant to use, as opposed to looking to non-toy items in the house. Pugs that are home alone and suffer from separation anxiety can be helped with interactive toys that respond to them and a companion toy that helps ease feelings of isolation. Toys breeds and brachycephalic breeds are both prone to tooth decay, so that means that if you have a Pug you need to pay particular attention to keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy. A build up of plaque, which eats away at tooth enamel and can travel under the gum line, can lead to terribly painful infections, tooth loss and more. Taking care of your Pug's teeth includes brushing the teeth with a quality canine toothbrush and effective canine toothpaste, or using a spray if your Pug is intolerant to brushings, and offering daily dental treats like GREENIES Dental Chews. Note that this applies to puppies as well, since decay on milk teeth can affect adult teeth that are waiting to emerge. Pugs should have their teeth examined by the veterinarian at least once a year during their wellness checks. An x-ray may be taken to look for any decay and if there is plaque or tartar present, this may require a 'full dental' which involves scraping the teeth clean. This is done with a dog under light sedation. Trauma is one of the leading causes of death for all puppies, the Pug breed included, and is a top concern for Pugs of all ages. Many instances of severe injury and death can be prevented by following some simple care tips: If your Pug has trouble navigating stairs most applicable to puppies and seniors , block these off with a gate. When outside, never allow your Pug to be off leash. Never allow your Pug to be in the yard unsupervised. If you have a puppy, do not allow anyone to handle him unless they have been shown proper handling techniques, which includes using both hands, one under the rump and one supporting the chest. Have young children stay on floor level to play with your Pug. Always be aware of where you are walking, especially at night, so that your puppy or dog is not accidentally stepped on or tripped over. If your Pug will be a passenger in your car, use a safe canine car seat or a canine belt restraint. These yearly for dogs age 1 and up or twice-per-year typically starting at age 8 visits are crucial for good health, prevention, and the best possible prognosis, should any issues be detected. The vet will perform a full physical examination to check for issues seen with canines in general and health issues specific to the Pug breed. Vitals will be taken temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate and your Pug will be weighed. The head will be checked eyes, ears, nose, mouth. The coat and the skin will be examined to look for any signs of concern. Proper posture will be assessed, knees and hips will be examined, and reflexes will be checked. A stool sample will be tested for possible parasites and a blood test will be run to evaluate overall health, flag any infections, and check organ function and electrolyte and protein levels. Senior dogs may have more advanced testing, including x-rays. During the visit, this is your opportunity to ask any questions; a good owner is an involved owner. The American Humane Association estimates over 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the US every year. Here are some tips to prevent this: If your Pug tends to run off, consider spaying or neutering. Intact dogs can have strong urges to take off, looking for a mate. If your Pug darts for the door as soon as its open, have a rule that everyone knocks before entering to allow enough time for someone to hold onto the dog. Consider having your Pug micro-chipped; dogs with chips are returned to owners at a much higher rate than those without. Have current photos of your Pug. If your dog does become lost, create 'lost dog' posters and bring these to all animal services and shelters within a mile area dogs are sometime brought to local shelters but send further away if there is over-crowding. Did you find these care tips to be helpful? This is available in both soft-cover paperback and ebook. Pug Paw Care - The most common issues seen and helpful tips to keep the paws in excellent shape. When a Pug is Super Itchy - Top reasons that cause both acute and chronic itchiness and how to offer fast relief. Housebreaking a Pug - Pugs typically aim to please, but house training can still be a bit challenging. See exact guidelines for fast success. Tips to Keep a Pug Busy and Occupied - Does your Pug stay home alone or seem lost unless you interact with him or her? See super-helpful advice to keep your Pug entertained and happy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. He is goofy, silly, and fun. Pugs were originally bred to be lap dogs and this is evident in the affection that they show to their owners. Nothing makes a Pug happier than being a member of the family. With their large heads, big, sparkling eyes, and wrinkled faces, Pugs are able to achieve a wide variety of human-like expressions- happiness, surprise, and curiosity. So whether you have a Pug already or are wanting to adopt one, here are all the facts and tips for creating a lasting bond between you and your pup. Meet The Pug Height: inches tall at the shoulder Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years Fur type: Pugs have a double coat of short, smooth hair. But they do shed a lot, because of this they are not hypoallergenic. Color: Typically fawn or black. But coats can have different tints like apricot or silver. Personality Pugs are happy, affectionate, loyal, charming, playful, and mischievous. They can be trained to be social from a young age. They are even tempered and gentle. Many people would say that Pugs are a lot of dog in a little space. Pugs tend to be sensitive to the moods of their owners and are eager to please them. Energy Level Pugs are a small, quiet breed, and are for the most part inactive while indoors. They are great for apartment dwellers. While they are docile and peaceful dogs, they do require a daily walk or some playtime to get their wiggles out. Good With Children Because they are bigger and sturdier than most other toy breeds, Pugs are an ideal pet for children. They can withstand some rough play and love to be around people. They are sweet and loving by nature and will protect your children as well as entertain them with their goofy and charming antics. However, if your children are looking for more of an active breed that they can play fetch with or take for long walks, a Pug would not be the best choice for your family. Good With Other Dogs If trained from a young age, Pugs can learn to be social with other animals and can even be trusted with other animals like cats and rabbits. Shedding Pugs have a short, double coat, and shed profusely. We recommend that if you live with a pug, to invest in a vacuum cleaner! Grooming Needs Regular brushing and monthly baths will help keep your Pugs coat in great condition and shedding to a minimum. A rubber curry brush will help remove and catch the shedding hair. Pugs do not naturally wear down their nails, so regular nail-trimmings are necessary. Teach your Pug to tolerate teeth cleaning. This will help prevent him from getting gingivitis. It may seem like a daunting challenge, but the more frequently you brush your Pugs teeth, the more acclimated to it they will become. One of the best things that you can do for your pug to ensure a long healthy life is to regularly clean out his face folds. The wrinkly folds on his face, although adorable, are a hot breeding spot for infection and bacteria. It is very important that after baths you dry out the folds and in-between baths you clean them out. You can use a dry cotton ball to get the junk out or a wet wipe, whichever you have handy. They do have a love for food, so using treats to your advantage might help your little guy learn quicker. Start training your puppy from the minute you bring him home, the earlier you start training, the faster he will pick it up and learn to behave well. How To Feed My Pug If you allow your pug to eat as much as he would like to, you will end up a roly-poly puppy. Pugs will eat everything and anything that you give them, so be sure to measure out their food and feed them small meals at regularly scheduled times. Pugs are usually allergic to foods like corn, soy, and wheat. Try feeding them raw food. Eating a raw, natural diet will ensure the best health of your Pug. Your Pug will love eating raw food! A high-quality diet of Raw food will ensure the best health condition for your pup. Because Pugs are prone to obesity, watch their calorie intake and weight. If you chose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Give table scraps sparingly and try to avoid giving your furry friend cooked bones or foods that are high in fat. Feeding Your Puppy Your cute little Pug should start eating a scheduled diet around 8 weeks. He should eat 4 times a day. This schedule should be followed until your furry friend reaches 3 months of age. At this time you Pug can start eating 3 times a day instead of 4. Feeding Your Adult Once your Pug reaches 1 year, he will be ready to start eating adult food. At this time you may also want to decrease his eating from 3 times a day to twice daily. This will be your best option because Pugs tend to gain weight very easily. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If you Pug happens to have a square shape, he is getting too much food. Health Concerns For Pugs To ensure you are getting a healthy Pug never buy one from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Heat stroke: Pugs suffer from heat stroke if they are outside for too long. When outside with your pug, watch for signs of overheating. They are definitely house dogs and should not be kept outside Breathing: Because of their short snout, pugs are prone to wheezing, snorting, and snoring loudly. Obesity: Be aware of how much you are giving your Pug. If your Pug is developing a square shape, he is eating too much. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This disease is not treatable nor is it testable. Most vets cannot diagnose it until after the death of the dog. It is an inflammation of the brain and meninges. It usually occurs between 6 and 7 months of age and is fatal. Will my pug bite? Pugs are strong-willed but rarely aggressive. They will only bite in moments where they feel threatened or the need to protect. When will my pug stop growing? Some Pugs will actually stop growing then, others will put on a few more pounds before they reach a year. At 1 year your pug puppy will be considered an adult, and by this time their full height is reached. They will still keep filling out in width in the chest area and a little more muscle until about 18 months. If you notice your pug gaining weight in other areas or later than 18 months he may be gaining unnecessary weight and should be checked out by the veterinarian. Can pug eyes pop out? Since Pugs have such beautiful bulgy eyes, they can accidentally go through something call proptosis, which is the popping out of the eyes. You might think this to be a very uncommon, scary thing, but in reality, it is more normal than you think. It is most common among breeds with short snouts and shallow eye sockets, like pugs. It can be a result of a trauma or it can happen completely all of a sudden. Immediately call your vet and she will give you further instruction on how to help your dog. Can pigs swim? Like most dogs, Pugs have a natural ability to swim. Does that mean that he will like the water? Not always. Make sure you introduce your pug to the water in a fun, positive way so that he will have a great first experience. This first time will really make it or break it in terms of him enjoy or disliking the pool. The barrel shape of your Pug does make it harder for him to swim than other breeds and he may get tired very quickly, but as long as you are there to supervise and help him if he starts to panic, he should be fine to swim. When will my pug go in heat? Your female pug could start her first heat as early as 4 months or as late as 15 months. The most typical time is between 4 and 6 months of age. The average heat cycle will last from 2 to 3 weeks and your pug will enter heat every 5 to 8 months. How much do pugs cost? It all depends on pedigree, the area of the country, and health tests that the breeder has done on the parents. Many people would think that the more expensive the pug, the better the quality of life it will have. While that may be a good guess, price does not always indicate how your pug will live. Buying a puppy at weeks is always a guessing game. Are pug puppies hyper? Pug puppies are known to be more energetic than their older parents. This energy usually lasts until about 1 year of age. At this time they tend to slow down and really embrace their lazy personality. Why does my pug howl? Pugs are very loyal dogs. They attach themselves to their humans and love them with all they are. They do not like to be left alone. Some Pugs have been known to howl when their humans leave. Every dog is different though, you might get a pug that howls in conversation or one that never makes any noise. Why do pug tails curl? Kind of like our tailbones. It consists of bone and cartilage. This is an anomaly in how the vertebra develops. Specifically, the bones and the tail form a twisting wedge shape. The twisting is what causes the tail to curl. So if you are looking for a dog with a ton of personality, one that will make you laugh as well as love you until his dying days, look no further. Your Pug will be your constant companion. He will love you as no has ever loved you before. Give him a lot of attention and love and you will have a forever best friend. About Jenna Barrington Hi! My name is Jenna and I am a proud pet parent of a gorgeous Golden Retriever. I grew up surrounded by animals and developed a love for anything on four legs! I spent a year working as a night puppy nurse for Doberman Pinchers, delivering puppies and taking care of all the health needs of the parents. I work now as a professional copywriter and researcher and am happy to be able to share my love for dogs by contributing to TruDog. Small Pets Taking Care of a Pug Puppy Pugs are some of the most soulful looking animals on the planet, and are very expressive. You can easily recognize a pug as these small breed dogs have a wrinkly face and a curled tail. They first came to international prominence when mobile operator Vodafone used them to endorse their brand —the ad with the pug, named Hutch in the ad, was a stupendous success with the pug soon becoming a household name. But there are certain things that you must be aware of if you also want to adopt this cute pet. Unlike adult pugs, small pug dogs are most likely to suffer from a number of health issues ranging from obesity, overheating and pharyngeal reflex. So, you need to be the doubly careful when dealing with these vulnerable puppies. If you are worried, you can take heart from the fact that taking care of the pups is uncomplicated and easy as they have very few demands. Before bringing home the pug puppy Ensure that you have all the grooming items in place starting from brush, cotton swabs, and petroleum jelly to puppy shampoo and dog treats. Here are some guidelines that you can refer to when taking care of the pug puppy: Training the puppy to follow your commands: There is no substitute for a well-trained dog, so train the puppy from day one. The first six months are the most crucial as during this period, he will learn the most which will mold him. Every time he responds correctly to your commands, like sit, run, jump, and come, give him some treats and words of encouragement. But there is one caveat: keep the sessions short as being such a young dog, his power of concentration is limited. To start with, minute sessions would be ok. Also, when taking him for a walk, better use a harness which will provide protection to his windpipe. Potty training: This is a very important stage of puppy training. When he is young, he has very little control over his bladder, so you need to take him out for potty breaks more frequently than you would do to an adult. He may demand potty breaks every hours at this stage, but as he grows older and his control over the bladder imp roves, the frequency will gradually become normal. However, under no circumstances, you should overlook his tendency to soil corners of the home thinking that it is an isolated incident, because it is not. Deal with such incidents with a firm no, or else he will become a big nuisance and a lazy dog. Grooming routine: The pug has a double coat which keeps shedding continuously, so daily grooming is essential. Brush the pug at least twice every week and vacuum him extensively. In what is unusual, pug dogs are very fond of water, unlike other dogs. You can easily find soaps and other bath related items that are designed for puppies in the local outlet, use them. Try oatmeal based shampoos which not only keeps his skin soft, but protects his sensitive skin. Pugs have narrow ear canals, so chances of getting an ear infection if water gets into its ear are higher in pugs. What you can do is use soft tissues or a cotton ball to wipe the ear clean and dry. If your pug is shaking his head violently, then it may indicate an ear infection —and if there is an infection, get in touch with the vet immediately. Cleaning of Pug Wrinkles Pug wrinkles are called folds, which serve as a great place to accumulate all sorts of unwanted stuff like water, mucous, dirt, tear, food etc. Cleaning of pug wrinkles is an easy task and getting the Pug used to it at an early age is a good idea. Some owners use an Ear Bud or Q-Tip for this purpose, but we would not recommend this as the slightest struggle from your Pug could cause an eye injury. Instead, you can use baby wipes or medicated wipes. You can fill a cup with lukewarm water and dip the baby wipes or cotton swab in it. After that, run the moist tip of baby wipes through the wrinkles so that all dirt and grime particle come out. At the end, you should use a cotton swab to smear petroleum jelly inside the wrinkles to keep the internal skin protected. Tackling overheating issues: Pugs are adversely affected by warm conditions and may get dehydrated. So, ensure that the living condition of the pup is cool- special care needs to be taken during the summers when the pugs feel great discomfort. Regularly check the room temperature where the pug is kept, and if you feel that the room is too hot, you have to either move it to a cool room or else you have to provide him with lots of water. In extreme conditions, there are cold compresses that you can put on his belly till it cools down. Exercise: Pugs are actually overweight for their size, so unless they exercise a lot heath issues are a given. Take him for a daily walk and play different games with it which will help it maintain its health. Be careful not to take him out on a bright sunny day, as it can dehydrate him. Feeding the puppy: There are special diets that are designed for pugs. But you may be unsure which brand to select for your puppy as there are so many different brands in the market. The best thing to do in such a situation is to take the advice of a vet. Pugs would eat almost anything and in the process put on a lot of weight. So, make it a point not to overfeed it. Also, if your dog prefers a particular food and you want to wean it away from that food, do it gradually. Normally, puppies in the age group 3 to 6 months should be fed at least three times a day. And from 6 months to 1 year, change it to two times. To make the feeding process easier for the pet, try using bowls that has an elevated shape off the ground. For more guidance, please refer to this article : Puppy feeding tips for new dog owners Dealing with obesity: Overeating will not only make the pug overweight, but may pave the way for ailments like leg pain, eye disorders, and lung problems. About Rahul From Delhi, Rahul is an animal lover at heart. He is a writer and most of his writing revolves around making people aware of animal issues like health, training and grooming.

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. There are so many things someone is looking for in a canine companion. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Mississippi 1. The dogs come with a month hip guarantee, a month eye guarantee, and of course, a general health guarantee! But while they specialize in breeding gorgeous pups, what really sets them apart is their health guarantees. The dogs come with month hip, elbow, and eye guarantees and lifetime genetic health guarantees! If you want a hunting dog, shopping at Choice Chocolate Labs is an outstanding choice. They breed high-quality British Labrador Retrievers that excel as hunting dogs. Expect to go on a waitlist and to complete a rigorous application process. Sporting Life Kennels wants to ensure that each of their pups goes to the best possible home. They also offer top-notch training courses for your Labrador Retriever, which can make everything easier for you. Each dog comes with a full AKC registration and a month health guarantee, which is among the best in the industry. All their pups come with an AKC partial registration, and you have the option to purchase a full registration. Moreover, they have a month hip guarantee, and they can deliver your puppy to you or you can pick them up in person. Related Read: English vs. Choosing a dog can be hard, but when you think about all the joy a dog will bring to your life, all the thinking and planning is worth it! Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers are consistently among the most popular dog breeds worldwide, due in large part to their cheerful personalities and obedient natures. If you live in California and want to expand your pack with a new Labrador Retriever puppy, the breeders on this list should be the first places that you check. The 8 Labrador Retriever Breeders in California 1. However, they emphasize preparing their pups to be working dogs, ready to help you with your next hunt. For an additional fee, you can have your new dog taught basic obedience and advanced gun dog training. Summerland Labradors Visit Their Website Phelan, CA Summerland Labradors is a small operation, producing only two to three litters per year, so you need to be on the ball if you want to adopt from them. Kenya Labradors Visit Their Website Santa Margarita, CA The biggest downside in buying a dog from Kenya Labradors is that the animals are raised on a gorgeous, acre plot overlooking the California coast, so the dog might be a bit disappointed when they get to your house. Still, all that room enables these dogs to get plenty of exercise and socialization before they join your pack. This kennel breeds well-pedigreed dogs, and your pup will come with more paperwork than the average new car. Your dog will be accustomed to living like you do long before you pick them up, which should cut down their adjustment time significantly. All their dogs are AKC-registered, and each one has many generations of champions in their heritage. They go to great lengths to try to match each pooch up with the perfect home for them, so your dog will be chosen based on how their temperament fits in with your existing lifestyle. They also guarantee that their dogs will be free of genetic defects up to 1 year of age or your money back. Your new pup will be thoroughly vetted, registered with the AKC, and microchipped before being handed over to you. They also have an extensive blog that answers just about any question that you might have about raising your new family member. You may also be interested in:. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Shreveport. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs help children to be more cooperative and sharing. For children, a close relationship with a dog is a proven benefit in study after study. For instance, in research with preschool children, psychologists at Oregon State University found that teaching children to care for a puppy enhanced their social skills. Sue Doescher, a psychologist involved in the study. And that transfers to how other kids feel. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

Video of English Bulldogge Puppies History This is a comparatively new bred and was developed due to the initiatives taken by one Mr. David Leavitt of Pennsylvania who aimed in creating a breed possessing the looks and athletic nature of the dog used for bull baiting but with a lesser degree of aggressiveness. It was decided to include half of the English Bulldog blood, one-sixth of Bull Mastiff and American Bulldog and one-sixth of the other breeds. The outcome of these crosses was the Old English Bulldogge. In Leavitt tried to maintain the authenticity of the dogs which he bred and named them as Leavitt Bulldogges, with the Leavitt Bulldog Association being formed in .The UKC recognized them completely in .Olde English Bulldogge vs. The Old English Bulldogge has a lesser chance of suffering from breathing difficulties in comparison to the English Bulldog because of its broad nostrils and long muzzle. Temperament and Personality Besides making for remarkable family pets because of their docile and friendly nature, they are also fearless protectors fitting the bill of a perfect watchdog. Though they share a good rapport with children of the family, emerging as their perfect playmate, this breed may not be amicable to other dogs, especially if they are not a part of its family. Care Exercise Because of their agile, muscular and athletic nature, they have high exercise needs, requiring daily walks and sufficient playtime in a fenced yard. However, avoid taking them out when the temperatures are too high or low. When indoors give a lot of chewable toys to keep them engaged as they have a tendency to chew up things when bored. Grooming Since they shed moderately, brush their coat once in a week to maintain the shine. Bathe it when needed, and also trim its nails, clean its eyes and ears as well as brush its teeth to maintain proper hygiene. Health Problems They are a healthy breed compared to other bull dog varieties and are not known to suffer from any genetic issues. However, bloating and hip dysplasias as well as insensitivity to heat are the common problems faced by them. Training They are friendly pets but could be stubborn at times, needing firm handling. Give it socialization training since its puppy days so that it may learn to differentiate between the god and the bad, thus accepting a friend and being defensive at the sight of a foe. Obedience training, particularly teaching it commands help it in eliminating its unacceptable behavior like chewing. Feeding Good quality dry dog food coupled with a nutritious homemade meal would keep your English Bulldogge healthy. Our stock photo collection includes high-quality images that will help you bring your projects to life. Whether you're creating an advertisement, website design or social media campaign, our collection of photos will definitely come in handy. We've got images of bulldogs in different angles, environments, and contexts. You'll find dogs in action, sleeping, playing, and much more. These formats are easy to use and can be edited in different design software as per your preference. Ideal for Different Projects Our Old English Bulldog images can be used for different projects, and they're perfect for a wide range of designs. These images are suitable for various design projects such as website design, print ads, emails, digital marketing campaigns, social media, and more. Our collection offers a perfect balance of cute, funny, and impressive images that will aid in the design process. You can choose from our collection to add some fun and creativity to your projects. The right image can make or break your designs, so you need to make sure you choose the right photos. When using our Old English Bulldog images, it's important to select images that fit with your branding and messaging. When designing, bear in mind the emotions you want to evoke in your viewers. Don't use photos that deviate from the tone of the rest of your project. Authenticity is key, so choose pictures that look natural and genuine, and that complement the message you're trying to convey. In conclusion, our collection of Old English Bulldog images is the perfect choice to enhance your design projects. With a vast selection of photos captured in different contexts, you will find a picture that fits your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring our photo gallery to find the perfect photos to enhance your project! He is an 8-month-old Olde English Bulldogge. Otis is already over 80 lbs.!! He loves to play with his best friend Hazel, who is a 2-year-old Boxer. He is loveable, happy and goofy. Otis loves his family and is turning into a great pet. We just need to get him to stop trying to chew on everything!! She doesn't have any of the breathing problems typically seen with her short face, proof that a dog can be bred with those looks and still be healthy and athletic! Unfortunately, we lost him to acute leukemia at age 2. Please do not let our situation dissuade you from the breed because what we experienced is very, very rare. He was a wonderful, affectionate and sweet-natured boy. We miss him dearly. We are forever fans of the breed because of him. Watching Cesar Millan's show and reading his book Cesar's Way really helped us bring Baron along during puppyhood and adolescence. He could be stubborn at times and Cesar's methodology really helped. He was the perfect jogging companion and was a very balanced dog. He always wanted to please. As you can see, he loved "his" kitten, Blitz. They were the best of friends. Although losing him has been the hardest thing our family has been through, we are forever thankful for the 2 years we had with him. We wouldn't trade it for the world.

Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free. Those are good as a rough guideline, but not entirely accurate. Active Goldens eat puppy food longer than the calmer ones. Because adult dog food is not as rich as the puppy version, he can only rely on the puppy food to meet his needs until his behavior changes to adult behaviors. Once your dog has almost reached maturity, his behaviors will automatically change. This change in behaviors is another sign your Golden puppy is ready to transition to adult food. Some of those signs are: Your puppy begins to sleep more and becomes less energetic. Your puppy starts losing interest in their puppy food. Your puppy often has stools after eating his puppy food. When your puppy is growing, he needs more calories and protein than an adult Golden to support his growth. That is why puppy food is designed to have more calories, calories, protein, and other nutrients beneficial for his development. But once he reaches maturity, his puppy food, although beneficial during the puppy stage, can do more harm than good. Because of the high-calorie content, if an adult Golden eats puppy food regularly, in the long term, it can cause him soft stools or diarrhea, and obesity. How to Transition Your Golden from Puppy Food to Adult Food After deciding it is the right time to switch your Golden puppy to adult dog food, the next thing to consider is how you will go about it. The best way to transition your puppy is to gradually mix in more adult food to your puppy food until he is ok with having only adult dog food in his bowl. For most dogs, the whole process usually takes about 7 to 14 days. After a few more days, continue to increase your adult dog food intake while reducing the amount of puppy food. At the end of days, if your dog can eat adult food without any problems, then you can eliminate the puppy food completely. One day they are smaller than your hand, and the next day they are too large to sit in your lap comfortably. But there comes a time which you should switch from treating them like babies to treating them like adults. This included switching their diets and the food they are eating. So, when and how to switch your golden retriever to adult dog food? This process seems simple enough, right? You can tell if they are ready or not for the transition by their weight. Using the following table: You can simply follow the chart guidelines and decide when you should start the transition based on this chart. You can also recognize the signs that they are ready for adult dog food when they start skipping meals, tasting different things around the house, or showing other signs that they are looking for more nutritious, solid food. Did you notice that the weight can slightly differ between males and females? What to look for in adult dog food for puppies? When you are buying adult dog food for your pooch, you need to look for a few things, first of all, you should always read the food label. Look for a product that comes with whole-food protein ingredients at the top of their list Foods where that the top ingredients are turkey, chicken, beef, or lamb are your best bets Avoid products that their ingredients begin with poultry, animal, and meat. You can also consult their vet before you start switching their food to avoid any issues in their stomach if you are worried it might happen. What is the best dog food for a golden retriever? Here are some quick recommendations for good foods for adult golden retrievers that I have tried and tested over the years with no issues. They are not perfect, but they are very good. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love.