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Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article.

How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the toilet at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialisation Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the garden Besides the gnomes and questionable garden furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own garden is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and garden to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favourite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. 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. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. Check Price on Amazon 6. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. This is known as command nagging. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If an order is not executed the first time, show your Lab what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they learn to obey the first time the command is made. Discipline at the Precise Moment of the Unwanted Behavior Timing is crucial when disciplining your 8-week-old Labrador pup. Dogs will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes. However, they can recall your training commands through associative memory. Once your pup has corrected his unwanted behavior with the desired behavior, reward him with a tasty treat and lots of praise. To learn more about how to discipline your dog, check out my top article, How to Discipline a Labrador: What Not to Do! It can also cause aggression in dogs , as found in this year-long study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. Using physical punishment such as hitting, kicking, or grabbing the jowls and shaking, is simply animal abuse. Other unacceptable methods are physically forcing the dog down onto its side or back, growling at your dog, withdrawing food, using a shock collar, or tying it for hours. Wean Your Puppy off Training Treats Your Labrador needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the behavior and completely mastered it in different locations and with various distractions. Nonetheless, your Labrador puppy is still a dog in training, and you still need to tell him that he has done the right thing. The rule of thumb is that they are trained young when it comes to dog training. You should train Labrador puppies as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. The American Kennel Club AKC indicates that the first key milestone when training a Lab pup is 8 weeks, as soon as they have left their mother. It is a crucial time to lay the foundation for your Labrador puppy to integrate into the family. When you bring your Labrador Retriever puppy home at two months, it has most likely interacted with a few situations and is eager enough to learn and follow the rules of a new home. A recent study scientifically proved that 8-week-old puppies are quite capable of learning at this young age as they quickly learned to open a puzzle box baited with food and remembered the skill an hour later. Interestingly, these puppies learned the skill better from a human rather than their mother. Other studies have also proven that it is effective for future behavior to teach puppies socialization and other skills rather than adults. In this study, puppies who attended a command and socialization training class for one hour a day for six months responded better to strangers than adult dogs who attended the same classes. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Lab puppies are easy to train. They are a working breed that enjoys physical and mental stimulation and have many positive traits. They are intelligent, devoted, friendly, highly social, and love to please. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, or search and rescue due to their easy trainability. Apart from the age factor, other breed-specific reasons make training a Labrador puppy easy. Here are three examples: Labradors are among the most intelligent dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, canine psychologist Stanley Coren lists Labradors in the top tier of the smartest dogs. So, even at just two months, your puppy has it in his blood to learn and carry out commands. To perform their original working job of retrieving fish that came off the trawl, Labradors had to be watchful and enthusiastic. These are essential learning characteristics. As game and waterfowl retrievers for hunters, Labradors have to be obedient. Another core training requirement makes your Lab puppy easy to train. With these ten principles on exactly how to train an 8-week-old Labrador, you can now apply them to the key areas your young puppy needs to be trained in. Labrador Puppy Training: Key Areas There are five critical areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week-old Lab puppy. In the next section, I will tell you what the training entails. How to Socialize a Labrador They say humans are social beings, but that is also true about dogs. Socialization begins with the breeder and continues with you. To socialize a Labrador, expose him to many different places and situations. Include sounds, smells, other adults, children, animals, cars, objects, etc. Dogs who are well socialized in the first 12 weeks will be set up for life. Socializing and training your puppy young plays a significant role in the development of adult dogs, as evidenced in this important study. Here are two key findings: Dogs that are well socialized as pups will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games with humans, helping them establish a true bond with their owners. As a puppy, you can teach your Labrador social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. Once he has completed his vaccinations, take him to public places such as parks or puppy socialization classes. Put him outside hourly and learn to anticipate when he needs to go. Reward and praise him when he does go outside. Usually, puppies will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and after meals. Use their natural rhythm for daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing in the area they sleep in and usually hold it. Nonetheless, very young puppies might be unable to do so. Walk your Labrador after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. Puppies will need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and for vaccinated dogs, a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent them from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you need to go out, get someone to help you stick to the routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new furry friend a good idea of his expectations. Check out my guide to Labrador potty training here. To crate train an 8-week-old Labrador puppy, start as soon as you bring him home. Slowly introduce him to the crate by throwing a treat inside and let him explore the crate voluntarily. When you first leave him with the door closed, make sure he is tired as he will sleep and not be afraid. Check out my Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens recommendations, including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Here are six key things you should practice when crate-training your Labrador: Keep your puppy in the crate at night. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets used to other sleeping arrangements. My puppy cried during the first night, but she was just fine after that. Lab puppies can be left alone in a crate for 1 hour for each month of age for up to 4 hours. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house. This is also for his safety, such as when you are cooking. Do not let your Lab out of the cage when barking or giving you those puppy eyes. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly learn that being quiet leads to nice things. He will quickly learn that this special place is just for him. Various toys and bedding will offer some comfort for your Labrador. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, the best ones will give your Lab enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into and choose a standard metal model with either a single or double door. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , also from Amazon, are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is even airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained not to hurt as they have learned their bite inhibition. This simply means that the dog has learned to control the strength of his bite. This sends the message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth until he lets go, then use lots of praise. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially learned from their mother and littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Lab puppy to soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not know how to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and adult jaw muscles. This can be devastating for you both, should your Labrador go on to bite someone! Have realistic expectations — as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his soft bite. How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Walk on a Leash Walking on a leash is not a natural skill in dogs — they need to learn it! Teach a leash cue, then introduce the pup to very short walks. If the dog pulls, stand fast and wait for him to return to you before continuing. Do this by letting him wear them for short periods inside the house and yard. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached, such as the Walk Your Dog With Love harness. They give you more control and are ideal for medium-large breeds. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your Lab to short walks outside on a leash. When it appears he is about to lunge toward another dog or object, quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is crucial. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. You can start steps 1 and 2 when the puppy is young, but you can only commence step 3 once the dog has been vaccinated. Final Thoughts Eight weeks old is the perfect time to train a Labrador puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, not biting, and leash training. To successfully train your Lab puppy in these areas, you must follow good training principles such as using reward-based training, being consistent in your commands, and disciplining at the precise moment of poor behavior. Begin with basic commands before introducing more complex or trick commands. Related Posts You May Like:. Crate training , potty training , and learning to settle at night and will all begin in earnest at 8 weeks. Is your 8 week old puppy driving you crazy? Puppies, like babies, can be hard work. Not to mention annoying, and frustrating! But hang on in there. Chances are, you are sleep deprived, and your life has been turned upside down too. Many of the problems that arise with a new baby puppy, are easily resolved with just a little help. And looking after your puppy with diarrhea is no fun. Which he will, because Labrador puppies are always hungry! You have to ration out his food for him. You need to know how much your puppy needs to eat in a 24 hour period, and then divide that amount between at least 4 meals. First night with puppy Your 8 week old puppy should not sleep in or on your bed. Bed sharing with new puppies is too dangerous. He might fall off, and is likely to leave little puddles on your mattress and carpet. Later on you can bed share with your dog if you want to, but not right now, at least not unless you puppy proof the room and sleep on the floor. Your 8 week old puppy should not be free to roam the house at night. There is so much potential for harm. Even if you only sleep for six hours or so, there is a great deal of mischief your puppy can get up to in that time. So, the three main options that work well for 8 week old puppies are described next First night options for an 8 week old puppy Here are those three alternative sleeping arrangement for the first few nights Safe sleeping area Sturdy box or crate next to your bed 1 The puppy safe sleeping area Just before you go to bed and after taking your outside to empty himself, you can put the puppy to bed in a puppy proof room with a washable floor. Or you can put his bed inside a large puppy playpen. Put plenty of newspaper or puppy pads down to cover most of the floor. On the other hand you WILL have to get up in the night. Which option is best? It may also result in vomiting and diarrhea for your pup, and a lot of clearing up for you. It might seem irrational to you, but there are good reasons for your puppy to be scared. If asked to sleep alone on the first night in their new home, they usually cry. For a surprisingly long time. Unless you live in a mansion, you will be able to hear him. And so will your neighbors. The best way around this, is to have the puppy sleep next to you for the first few nights as described in Option 3 above. New puppies learn very quickly. Whilst initial crying is the result of fear or loneliness, puppies they soon discover that crying gets them attention. How much do puppies sleep? Your 8 week old puppy will spend around 18 to 20 hours asleep out of every .But dogs continue to sleep for long periods throughout their lives. Sleeping often and deeply is normal for an 8 week old puppy. This is nothing to worry about if your puppy is energetic and playful when awake, eating and growing well, and seems healthy in every other respect Potty training your 8 week old puppy. Potty training your 8 week old Labrador puppy can start on the very first day. A few new puppies can last six or seven hours at night without a wee. But many cannot do this until they are around ten weeks old. If you crate your puppy at night, expect to get up in the middle night and take your puppy outside for a wee, for up to two weeks. If you opt to leave your puppy at night with puppy pads or newspaper, expect it to take a little longer than this before you come down to a nice clean floor each morning. Getting up earlier for a while is a given with an 8 week old puppy. Puppies pee much more frequently often the day. Some new puppies can last an hour or so between wees, but again, many cannot. If you are going back to work, or want to leave your puppy for three to four hours before he is five or six months old, and you want to crate train, you need to arrange for someone else to take care of him during the day. Even for this short period of time. An 8 week old puppy should not be left in a crate for hours at a time during the day. The secret to success in crate training a new puppy lies in getting good habits established from the start. And this means getting that puppy outside to his toilet area, whenever his little bladder is getting full. Your puppy will quickly become comfortable with you disappearing for a few minutes if you reliably return. But too much isolation is a common cause of noisy or destructive behavior. Puppies need company. Older puppies may cope happily with being left for up to four hours, but even an adult Labrador may become distressed or destructive if left alone for a full working day on a regular basis. Labradors are very sociable dogs and they need to have people around them. No matter how many walks he gets at the weekend. Puppies biting Most people know that puppies nip when teething. Despite learning early bite inhibition from their mother and littermates, puppies continue this spikey behavior when you bring them home. Destructive puppy behavior Your 8 week old puppy will chew, gnaw and dig around the home. It can be quite a shock to discover just how destructive a Labrador can be, both indoors and out, especially if left unsupervised for long periods of time. Expect your puppy to destroy anything he can get in his mouth. Indoors and out. Some even chew the skirting boards, rip plaster from the walls, and tear up carpets in their homes. Supervision, playpens and puppy crates will help keep your home in tact during the destructive phase. Puppies running off 8 week old puppies need time off leash. Tiny puppies have an automatic response with means that they follow people around. This response disappears by the time the puppy is around four or five months old. Labradors are retrieving dogs. They love to hunt and follow scent trails. Expect that an older puppy will want to explore away from you and get that off lead recall established well before he is six months old. Expect that an older puppy will stray further and further away on walks if you are too predictable and just traipse along behind him. Teach him to follow you and not the other way around. What we expect from an 8 week old puppy We expect an awful lot from our tiny puppies. Both when they are still very small, and then as they grow bigger. Some of our expectations are simply not in line with the way puppies think and behave. Cuddles We expect that puppies will enjoy being cuddled. Sometimes they do, mostly they are just being polite. TIP: Wait for your puppy to stop wriggling before you place him on the floor or he will wriggle harder next time! A fun friend for children We expect that our children will be able to play with a new puppy, but small puppies often bite and wriggle too much for little ones to enjoy them. Those pleasures tend to come later TIP: Use baby gates to give toddlers and puppies space apart from one another Success and quick results We expect that the efforts we put in to housetraining will be rewarded, that the puppy will listen to what we say. But potty training and obedience training take time. Your 8 week old puppy will have accidents in the house to begin with and needs your help to understand what you want him to do next. As he grows, we expect our puppy to return our love and affection, to respect us, be loyal, and obedient. And he will be, in time. Nor had we anticipated just how depressing it would be to clear up puppy pee and poop every time we get up in the morning, or return home from a quick shopping trip. But they are common reasons for people to become disenchanted with their furry companion. One of our aims here on The Labrador Site is to help close this gap between expectations and reality. So that puppies go into their new homes, and stay there for the rest of their lives. And most of the problems described above can be avoided or passed through without too much pain, if you have the right information! And a little preparation. You can do this if you are ready. Much puppy naughtiness is linked to over-excitement. Focus on being calm around your puppy, and read up on how to train your puppy effectively. The considered and appropriate use of a crate and baby gates, is a great way to prevent conflict between puppies and their families. Confinement is not a substitute for companionship and training though, and of course it is very important to be sure you have enough time in your life for a Labrador, before going ahead and getting that lovely puppy. Do check out our article: are you ready for a Labrador , before you take the plunge.

For the complete list please see our Resource Page page. Because the boxer is so popular, the price for one will vary depending on where you are looking. For example, if you live near Detroit or Lansing, you should be able to find a boxer puppy around the middle of that price range. If you want one from a reputable breeder, however, it could cost significantly more. Prices may also vary because of the age of the boxer. Puppies are cheaper than older dogs, so you will want to shop around and compare prices before committing to a purchase. If you would like to adopt a boxer instead of buying one from a breeder, check out some local shelters or organizations that place rescue animals in homes. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Michigan When choosing a boxer breeder, you will want to be sure that they are reputable and that your puppy is being cared for properly. If they have one, this should give you an idea of how much work goes into breeding boxers responsibly which can give you confidence in your choice of breeder. Although anyone can call themselves a dog breeder, it takes dedicated breeders with years of experience to truly take care of their dogs. The Michigan Boxer Club has approved member breeders who put health above all else when breeding their dogs. You should contact them if you are looking for someone who breeds responsibly and cares about the health and happiness of their dogs. In addition to checking out the parent club, you can find a list of member breeders in Michigan on our site below. Visit Your Michigan Boxer Breeder in Person Once you have found a few reputable members, take the time to visit them in person. This will give you an opportunity to see what kind of environment your puppy is coming from and should provide some peace of mind that he or she has been properly cared for. Not only does this give you a chance to interact with the puppies, but it also helps you get comfortable with the parent club members and gives them a chance to meet you as well. Taking these first steps can help build a relationship between all parties involved which will hopefully lead to successful future transactions. Now that you know how important it is to find a responsible breeder, where do you begin? ReadPlease is dedicated to making your search easier by helping connect potential breeders and responsible dog owners. Take a look at our list of approved boxer breeders in Michigan below to get started on your search today. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Michigan When meeting your Michigan boxer breeder for the first time, you should be sure to ask them if they have any references for you. They should realize that you will want some sort of contact information, this is important information to gather before deciding on a breeder. Once you have some references, contact them to get their honest opinion about working with one another and how it went overall. The more references you talk to, the better your chances are going to be satisfied with your choice in breeder. If you are satisfied with all of your references, then it is time to put in an application for that adorable puppy. You want to make sure that you are getting a healthy dog with no genetic problems. Not only will meeting past customers give you peace of mind, but it can also help build a lasting relationship between all parties involved which in turn helps their next potential sale. Just like normal references, ask if they have any other people who have purchased from them within the last year or two that you can talk to about their experience with the breeder. This gives you a chance to really get into detail about how everything went and start building a rapport with these future friends of yours who just happen to own adorable boxers Does Your Michigan Boxer Breeder Have A Good Veterinarian They Use? There is nothing worse than having a sick puppy and not knowing what to do about it. This is why it is important to find out if your breeder has a good veterinarian they use and trust before you purchase your boxer from them. Not only does this help build a relationship between everyone, but it can provide you with someone who will be there for you when problems arise with your dog. The veterinarian can also offer advice on how to care for your boxer as well as give you the chance to ask any questions that come up about their health or behavior. Look out for The Signs of An Unethical Boxer Dog Breeder in Michigan When looking for a boxer breeder in Michigan, it is important to note the signs of an unethical breeder before visiting them. You should be wary if they refuse to show any paperwork for your future puppy such as the AKC papers, pedigree information, vaccine records, etc. Another big sign would be if they ask for money upfront before giving you any information on the potential parents, puppies themselves. Just like with anything else, you want to be wary of any contracts that are too long or confusing. Having these questions ready can help you quickly screen the different Michigan boxer dog breeders. As with any other dog, problems could arise at any time because of the genetic makeup of their parents. Things such as hip dysplasia or heart disease can be passed down from one generation to the next which is why it is important to ask your breeder about these potential genetic problems in your future puppy. This will help you avoid expensive vet bills until you know more information on what exactly is wrong with your new pup. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before bringing your new boxer puppy home, you will need to make sure that their designated area is ready for them. This includes having dog crates that are large enough for them to grow into as well as newspapers or pads on the floor where they can use the bathroom. Making certain areas of your home puppy-proof is very important. Make sure there are no chemicals, cleaning products, or small objects available for them to swallow or play with. They could cause serious injury to your dog which is why it is so crucial for their safety. Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on them until you know they are comfortable in their new home. There are a few things that you can do to help with this process though, including crate training which is seen more often in puppies. Potty training your new boxer puppy is a big job, but with the proper guidance and patience, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside just like any other dog. Good luck finding your next loving companion! I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states. Find more Boxer puppies for sale in closest states: Wisconsin , Indiana , Illinois , Minnesota , Iowa , Ohio If you have never owned a Boxer before, or are interested in reading more information, check out our Boxer Dog Breed Information page. Latest Dog Articles Most common digestion puppy's diseases We don't like to think of our new puppy falling sick with puppy disease. But youngsters get sick quicker and take longer to get well than adults. It's vital to recognize sick puppy behavior, signs and symptoms of puppy illness, and how to know when you ca How to Defend Yourself against a Mad Dog According to World Health Organization about citizens require emergency care treatment on a daily basis for dog bite injury. Also, about 4. Now, those are insanely alarming statistics. But they are tru Dog Care Tips Few things in life are more fun and rewarding than bringing a dog into your family. Your dog will offer your family years of love and loyalty — as long as you provide him with food, shelter, responsible care, and love in return. Email: mistymeadowsfk gmail. Check our comments section below to see if anyone has left a review of any of these breeders. Remember, we can't moderate the results we show, but they are hopefully a good starting point to narrow down some of the Boxer breeders in Michigan. Facebook Groups Facebook is another great place to find honest reviews of Breeders. Click here to search Facebook groups that discuss Boxer breeders in Michigan. You can grab your free copy below. Boxer dogs are a great addition to any home, but you do have to make some considerations about your lifestyle. Whereabouts in Michigan were they based, what was the Breeders name? It really helps others who are searching for a Boxer Puppy in the Michigan area if they can read honest reviews from buyers like yourself. Are you a breeder of Boxers? Get in touch and we can add you to our directory. Please feel free to drop us a picture of your Boxer on Facebook or Twitter. And remember to check out our Boxer puppy buyers guide for lots of useful information. Recommended Posts:. Boxer BoxerT The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during war time and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. History Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late s. Temperament One of the breeds most notable characteristics is its desire for human affection, especially from children. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. The are also very intelligent, therefor easy to train and housebreak. Working Group; AKC recognized in .Large game hunter, guard and companion dog. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Boxer, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Boxers". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Boxer from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon. If you can't find the perfect Boxer puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Boxers young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!

Motion Sickness my frenchie has diarrhea and vomiting One of the most common culprits for diarrhea in your French Bulldog, especially in a puppy or younger dog, will be a diet change or dietary indiscretion, such as eating garbage or another item not meant for consumption by canines. Puppies and young dogs are not unlike human babies and have a penchant for exploring the world through their mouths. While this is relatively normal behavior, it can lead to the occasional consumption of rotten food or items that cause stomach upset in your French Bulldog. Dogs usually require several days for their digestive tracts and systems to adjust to a new diet. French Bulldog owners should also be mindful of the amount of food their puppy or dog is consuming, as overeating can also cause acute diarrhea in dogs. Some dogs suffer from motion sickness, the result of which may be episodes of diarrhea, vomiting, or nausea during or after travel. Dogs that are not well adapted to travel, and only travel for instances such as veterinary visits, may find that the increased stimuli and stressful experiences that follow traveling severely impact their digestive systems. Dogs with medical issues, such as inner ear infections may also suffer from motion sickness, leading to diarrhea. Loose stools are generally the first sign or symptom of diarrhea in your dog. Diarrhea stools may be soft, like mush, completely liquid, or in some state. In that case, retrieving a sample to bring to a veterinarian for testing may be necessary. Dehydration is a primary concern for your French Bulldog if it has an episode of diarrhea. Still, if their gums are tacky or sticky, your dog is dehydrated and needs to be seen by a vet immediately. Several other symptoms to look out for requiring veterinary attention in a more severe case of diarrhea, such as lethargy, vomiting, or bleeding. How to prevent diarrhea in your French Bulldog or French Bulldog puppy: Preventative measures can be taken to avoid or decrease the number of times your French Bulldog or French Bulldog puppy has diarrhea. This means being particularly vigilant about watching what your dog eats and has access to for puppies and young dogs. Making sure garbage and trash bins or containers have secure lids or are not easily tipped over is crucial. Strictly enforcing rules against feeding human food to your French Bulldog or puppy is also important. A puppy or young dog requires constant and careful watch to ensure they do not ingest anything that could make them sick. When transitioning your French Bulldog or puppy to a new diet, it is important to do so gradually. Introduce new foods a little bit at a time, usually over one or two weeks. Also, ensure that the amount of food being given to your French Bulldog is appropriate for its age and size. To prevent diarrhea in your Frenchie while traveling, it is best to introduce your French Bulldog or puppy to travel at a young age. Attempting to make travel both frequent and pleasant for your dog will reduce the anxiety that your dog may feel during car rides and other travel experiences. Committing to the comfort of your French Bulldog or puppy through its environmental experiences will significantly reduce potential unexpected and unpleasant instances of diarrhea. Are there any natural or at-home treatments for my French Bulldogs diarrhea? Suppose your French Bulldog or puppy is afflicted by an acute or non-serious bout of diarrhea. In that case, it is important to keep them hydrated and to drink small amounts of fluids throughout the day. What can I give my french bulldog for diarrhea: Most cases of acute diarrhea can be handled at home and without veterinary care. Home remedies for Frenchie with diarrhea: Allowing your dog to fast or go without food for 12 to 24 hours is a popular method to treat diarrhea in dogs at home; however, French Bulldogs are a smaller breed that requires nutrients during illness and would not benefit from this method. Smaller dogs, puppies, and older dogs cannot handle a fast of this nature and should be given other forms of at-home treatment. Treating your French Bulldog or puppy for diarrhea at home can be achieved by doing something as simple as boiling some rice. Boiling rice, then removing the grain and feeding the creamy rice broth to your dog will keep your French Bulldog hydrated while also providing some nutrients. A bland food diet of plain rice, plain chicken without skin, or plain eggs may also be suitable for providing your French Bulldog with essential nutrients while recovering from diarrhea. When should I take my French Bulldog to the vet for diarrhea? Some instances of diarrhea are more severe than others and require veterinarian attention. Suppose your French Bulldog or puppy is presenting signs of dehydration. In that case, you should see a veterinarian immediately as this can lead to several system imbalances and cause severe illness. Take your French Bulldog or puppy to the veterinarian immediately if it is vomiting, presenting pain, weakness, or fever. Suppose your dog continues to have worsening diarrhea for more than a couple of days, or the issue becomes chronic. In that case, you should take your dog in for examination by a vet. How will the vet treat my French Bulldog Puppy with diarrhea? A veterinarian will treat your Frenchie following the seriousness of its symptoms. Some cases are easily diagnosed with certain bacteria or parasites and do not require further testing, resulting in a simple prescription of medication and dietary care instructions at home as diarrhea passes. For cases of diarrhea that have become severe, a veterinarian will run a series of tests first to determine the cause of diarrhea and how ill it has made your dog. These tests may be as minimal as fecal examination, X-rays, fecal DNA tests, or as invasive as an intestinal biopsy, endoscopy, or even exploratory abdomen surgery. Such cases of diarrhea are considered acute or sudden and are often treatable at home. Natural and home remedies can be effective but will also vary depending on the age and breed of your dog. French Bulldogs require slightly different care than larger breeds. Though rare, severe cases of diarrhea in your dog can occur, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately in such cases. The question of why your French Bulldog has diarrhea may have many answers. Still, the question of when your French Bulldog will get diarrhea is only a matter of time. Featured French Bulldog Diarrhea. Its not the most exciting topic, but something we have all dealt with at least once. It seems Frenchies have extra sensitive stomachs, especially at puppy age. Many families bring their puppy home at 8 weeks old when they have recently been weaned from breastmilk and are still getting used to eating kibble. Add on top of that the stress from separation anxiety, and its highly likely to result in diarrhea. Separation anxiety is a whole other topic, so very briefly, it is a side effect of being separated from everything your puppy has ever known in his short life. The familiar faces, siblings, mother, sounds, smells, food, and area are all gone in once instant when coming home to his fur-ever family. The stress from this tremendous transition in life can cause many things, including diarrhea, and can even depress the immune system. This is one cause of diarrhea I have seen over many years of breeding and experience with my French Bulldogs. They need a stable, loving environment first and foremost. Another cause of diarrhea can be sudden change in food, eating table scraps, eating rancid food, an intolerance to any specific ingredient, or food poisoning. If you think your French Bulldog might be intolerant allergic to an ingredient, ask your vet for an allergy test. If you are thinking about switching foods, do so slowly to avoid causing diarrhea. Mix the new food into the old food, each day decreasing the amount of old food, and increasing the amount of new food until you are only using the new food. Next likely cause is parasites. Dogs like to lick their behinds, some lick other dogs behinds. Some dogs even eat feces that they find outside. No matter how clean you keep your beloved pet they are most likely carriers of parasites. Giardia a single celled parasite can be found in the water, and even on the grass. It will live for months in moist conditions so all it takes is your Frenchie going on a walk outside, coming home, and licking his paws. Your vet should have your French Bulldog on a regular deworming schedule. I personally deworm once or twice a year preventatively with fenbendazole for five days following my vets recommendation for dosage which depends on weight. Its very important to remember you must follow up with a second treatment in two weeks. This is because many dewomers only kill the live parasite, but not the eggs. Not all dewormers target the same kinds of parasites. The transmitter of tapeworms are fleas. So if your French Bulldog has fleas, treat the fleas at the same time as tapeworm. If you see blood in your dogs poop they are likely infected with coccidia another type of parasite. Your vet can take a poop sample to test for parasites and give you medicine if you are not sure what they might be infected with and what to treat with. I deworm my French Bulldog puppies preventatively with fenbendazole and albon before they come home to their fur-ever family. However, giardia particularly can be resistant to treatment and persist in the right conditions. The right conditions would be including stress, very young or very old age, during pregnancy, active disease or condition which depresses the immune system. I mentioned earlier that separation anxiety can cause so much stress to a newly rehomed puppy that it depresses the immune system. Only tender loving care, and time can help with separation anxiety. However there are other things you can do to strengthen the immune system for example feeding super premium, easy to digest food, and probiotics to help the gut. I also feed my French Bulldogs ground raw pumpkin seeds which are a natural dewormer and help to make the poop solid. Yet another cause of diarrhea can be from a virus. Parvovirus and distemper both cause diarrhea and can be fatal. It is transmitted through contamination with infected feces and can be very difficult to treat in young puppies. Your vet can quickly test for parvo with a poop sample. My puppies come home with a minimum of their first set of vaccinations including parvovirus, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. That being said, the puppy will still need booster shots so talk to your vet about what vaccines your puppy might be due for. If your French Bulldog continues to have diarrhea despite ruling out anxiety, food related issues, parasites, and virus I would talk to your vet about ordering a lab to check for pancreatitis. A friend of mine ruled this out in his Frenchie. It was an expensive test, but after finishing the meds his dog finally stopped having diarrhea. Also ask your vet for more recommendations, especially if the diarrhea is accompanied with vomiting and other symptoms you need to act fast. Please comment down below if you think there is something I missed or if you have an experience that you would like to share. As always, sending our hugs and our love from NW Frenchies. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian if the dog has one of the types of diarrhea described below. Watery diarrhea in French bulldogs Watery diarrhea can be a sign of stress, a viral or parasitic infection. This type of diarrhea can lead to dehydration very quickly especially in young dogs so make sure your dog gets enough fluids. Mucous diarrhea in dogs Diarrhea containing mucus may be an indicator of the presence of parvovirus or parasite. In that case, take your Frenchie to the vet immediately for an examination. Black diarrhea in French bulldogs Black-colored diarrhea can be an indicator of internal bleeding in the stomach or small intestine. How to solve diarrhea in French bulldogs? Diarrhea usually stops after a few days of home care. If the dog is generally healthy, then you can do a couple of things. To prevent your batpig from dehydration, make sure to provide him with constant access to fresh water and encourage him to drink it in large amounts. It is often recommended to restrict a dog from meals for 12 to 24 hours. Therefore, it would be best to consult a veterinarian about proper nutrition and possible food restriction. Rice water — cook rice in a larger amount of water. Remove the rice and feed the dog with rice water. White rice and peeled potatoes — Carbohydrates and fiber can contribute to normal stools in dogs. Yogurt — The bacteria in yogurt can help Frenchies who tolerate milk and dairy products. Protein — a pure source of protein such as eggs boiled and chicken without skin and bones. Special dog food — there is food that is made for the purpose of soothing digestive problems in dogs. Sometimes it is necessary to buy this type of food from a veterinarian. Not every food will necessarily help every dog. Therefore, you may need to experiment with these foods before you find one that suits your Frenchie. Diarrhea in dogs — activated charcoal Dissolved medical charcoal is often prescribed as a remedy for diarrhea in French bulldogs. You can buy it in a pharmacy and it should be given only by the recommendation of a vet. Your dog should take it max 4 days, ie. Post navigation. There are so many different causes of diarrhea in Frenchies. It may be something that causes stomach upset like stale food, inedible objects, or poisonous substances. Common issues that produce runny poop include changes in diet or parasites. Underlying conditions or diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease IBD can also cause diarrhea. IBD can go unnoticed for years until more serious symptoms appear. Inflammation of the small intestine enteritis and colon colitis are examples of IBD. Chronic allergies to certain food products like dairy or wheat are very common in French Bulldogs and can be a cause of diarrhea. Cleaning products are another culprit. Diarrhea can even be a symptom of potentially deadly viral infections like distemper and parvo. Or kidney or liver problems can also produce loose and watery stools. How do I treat French Bulldog diarrhea? Most cases of diarrhea can be treated with a change in diet or medication. Your Frenchie may have eaten something to trigger diarrhea. You can watch for other symptoms and withhold food for about a day. In the meantime, be sure to provide plenty of water and encourage frequent drinks. You can also provide chicken broth, beef broth or Pedialyte as well. A small portion of boiled chicken breast and white rice is a good substitute meal while your Frenchie is recovering. If the suspected cause is a food allergy, your doctor can prescribe a special diet. Other foods can be gradually reintroduced over time. Wrap Frenchie ownership requires time and patience. There are a variety of health conditions that can affect Frenchies. Pet insurance can help to defray the cost of medical bills, but certain conditions may not be covered. This should be about once a year for healthy adult dogs. Their health problems are manageable with a good vet and proper care. Home » Blog » What to do if your pup has diarrhea? As we get a lot of questions about diarrhea, we take a closer look at what could cause that and how you can help your pup and when to ask for help! Why does my Frenchie have diarrhea? Common reasons why your poor pup has the misfortune of diarrhea could be: Eating leftovers causing a viral or bacterial infection. This is why we always recommend you regularly scan your kitchen and dining room, remove leftovers, and ask your family members to do the same. A sudden change in their diet. Make sure you check with the breeder what meals, which type of food your pup has been eating so that this could be continued. Unknowingly providing them with an abrupt change in their diet can cause a reaction that triggers diarrhea. We always tell the puppy parents what we fed their puppy with on the farm, and give recommendations on their future diet. Swallowing a small object. Back to being curious! Your pup may stumble upon small objects left on the ground or at home such as a small plastic toy, which can cause them to have an upset tummy and diarrhea — understandably! An allergy. Pups can have allergies, particularly to dairy or wheat, which can make their system react adversely. Allergies are hard to prevent, this is why we carefully select every TomKings parent puppy from an award winning bloodline so that we build the healthiest and most Frenchie-authentic gene pool for our TomKings babies. It would be loose stools that are watery in consistency and your pup would have frequent bowel movements. Chronic diarrhea — this is associated with more long-term issues such as an allergic reaction or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which can be worsened by a change in their diet. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email OK, so what do I need to do to help my poor pup? Make sure your Frenchie has plenty of water to drink — this is to avoid any dehydration. As harsh as this may sound — do not feed your pup for up to 12 hours so that their body has time to adjust and flush out the issue. Do provide them with a mild and low-sodium soup like a chicken or beef broth to have as a meal replacement. This still provides your pup with all the necessary water and nutrition they need to get back to bouncing health. After this, — depending on whether or not your puppy has vomited again during this time — do feed them in small doses a few times a day with bland food such as rice or plain, boiled white-meat like chicken. If their health is improving; gradually start to include their usual meals in their diet. Normally, diarrhea is not a serious issue and often gets better over a hour period. However, please do look out for more serious signs such as: A lack of appetite. Diarrhea in Frenchies can be messy, smelly, and downright frustrating. What causes dog diarrhea? And what can you do to help your best friend right now? The bottom line is there is no one size fits all cure for dog diarrhea, but there are some techniques that can help to calm things down literally. There are numerous different causes for a French bulldog dog having diarrhea we will discuss them and also focus on treating your French bulldog diarrhea naturally. Portrait of purebred dog bulldog isolated over studio background in neon gradient pink purple light. What are the causes of diarrhea in French bulldogs? There are many causes of diarrhea in French bulldogs. The most common ones are food allergies, dietary indiscretions, intestinal parasites, and bacterial infections. Food allergies can cause diarrhea in French bulldogs because they trigger an abnormal immune response that results in inflammation of the intestines. The most common offenders are beef, chicken, fish, and dairy products. Dietary indiscretions can also result in diarrhea in Frenchies. Eating any type of food that is not normally consumed by dogs can cause them to have loose stools as their system tries to process this new type of food. This includes chocolate, bones, and raw potatoes which are toxic if ingested in large quantities or over a long period of time longer than 10 days. These foods should be avoided at all times due to their high toxicity levels which can cause severe health issues such as organ failure or death if consumed regularly over long periods of time longer than 10 days. Intestinal parasites are another cause of diarrhea in Frenhies. Here are some common home remedies that can help in treating your French bulldog diarrhea naturally. Put your dog on fasting If your French bulldog is suffering from diarrhea, you may be tempted to feed them something to get the problem under control. One thing that you should do is put your Frenchie on fasting if they are suffering from diarrhea. This will help prevent further dehydration and allow their body to focus on healing itself instead of digesting food. You should only fast your Frenchie for 24 hours before reintroducing food slowly over the course of several days or weeks depending on how severe their condition is. When your pooch has diarrhea, they can be thrown out of whack and their immune system can get compromised as a result. French bulldogs with diarrhea may also have an upset stomach, which could cause them to have a decreased appetite. If this is the case, they may not be getting enough nutrition and vitamins through their food. These enzymes break down food so that nutrients can be absorbed into their body. This will help them feel better faster! Probiotics also help to build up their immune system, which can become weakened due to stress or illness like diarrhea. This means that pups who are suffering from diarrhea will be able to fight off infections quicker than before! The next thing to consider is whether or not you should give your Frenchie prebiotics. If you find that your dog has a lot of loose stools, it may be a good idea to try giving them prebiotics for about two weeks and see if that helps with their symptoms. Give bland diet If your Frenchie is suffering from diarrhea, the last thing you want to do is give him a bland diet. The best way to recover from diarrhea is to feed him foods that are high in protein and fat. The nutrients in these foods will help repair the lining of his intestines, which may have been damaged by whatever he ate that caused diarrhea in the first place. Feed pumpkin When your Frenchie has diarrhea, you may be tempted to give him a pumpkin. It also helps relieve gas, bloating, and constipation. The best way to feed your Frenchie pumpkin is to give him tablespoons mixed with his regular dog food. You can also add it to a small portion of water for him to drink if he prefers. Pumpkin can be used as an occasional supplement for dogs with chronic diarrhea or those who suffer from frequent bouts of loose stool. Conclusion Diarrhea is one of the most common stomach problems that a French bulldog can get. It can be the first sign of illness or it can develop and suddenly attack your dog without warning. Either way, you must treat it as soon as possible to make sure your dog gets better, in the same way, you would for any other stomach problem.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Disclaimer: Please note that this dog food calculator is not meant for diagnosing or treating animals, nor should it replace professional veterinary advice. Guidelines to Use Dog Food Calculator Good quality food is essential for dogs as it ensures proper nutrition, maintains a healthy weight, boosts energy, promotes a healthy coat, and contributes to overall longevity and well-being. However, feeding the right amount of food is equally crucial as choosing the right food for your dog. Research has proven that maintaining dogs at their ideal weight significantly enhances their health and can even prolong their life. Please note that the Dog Food Calculator is exclusively designed for adult dogs and puppies. Additionally, it is not suitable for pregnant or lactating females. For puppy and adult dogs Puppies experience rapid growth and development, which demands higher energy and nutrient intake to support healthy bone, muscle, and organ growth. On the other hand, adult dogs have stabilized growth and energy requirements. For senior dogs As dogs age, their energy needs decrease, making weight gain more likely. Small to medium dogs are typically considered seniors around seven years old, while large or giant breeds can reach senior status as early as five years old. Senior dogs have lower calorie needs but higher protein requirements. Weight The amount of food a dog requires is largely dependent on their body weight. Larger dogs generally require more calories than smaller dogs due to their higher metabolic rate and energy expenditure. Activity Level Dogs with higher activity levels, such as those that are very active or working dogs, require more calories to support their energy expenditure. On the other hand, less active or sedentary dogs have lower caloric requirements. Dogs with a BCS indicating they are underweight may require more calories to support weight gain and improve body condition. On the other hand, dogs with a BCS indicating they are overweight dogs may need fewer calories to facilitate weight loss and reach a healthier body condition. However, converting calories to portion size is super easy as it involves determining the number of calories present in a specific serving or portion of dog food. To achieve this, follow these steps: 1. Check the calorie content per serving on the dog food packaging. It is usually listed on the label in kcal kilocalories per cup or per gram. Divide the calculated daily caloric needs MER by the calorie content per serving. This will give you the number of servings cups or grams your dog should consume per day to meet their energy requirements. Adjust the amount as necessary to maintain a healthy body condition score for your furry companion. How to Keep Your Dog at an Ideal Weight Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is essential for their overall health and welfare. Here are some tips to help you achieve and maintain their ideal weight: 1. Balanced Diet: Feed your dog a well-balanced diet with appropriate portions to meet their nutritional needs without overfeeding. Regular Exercise: Engage your dog in regular physical activity that matches their age, breed, and energy level. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games can help keep them active and maintain a healthy weight. Treats should be given in moderation, and consider healthier options like fruits or vegetables. Monitor Weight: Regularly weigh your dog and keep track of their weight to ensure they stay within the ideal range. Avoid Table Scraps: Refrain from sharing human food with your dog, as it can lead to unhealthy weight gain and other health issues. Learn more in our dog Chocolate Toxicity Calculator to keep your furry friend safe and informed. It helps prevent issues like obesity or malnutrition, promotes cost-effective feeding, and prevents health problems related to improper diet. Consistent monitoring of food quantity also allows you to detect changes in their eating habits, ensuring a long and healthy life for your beloved pet. As previously mentioned, these figures serve as a starting point, but due to individual differences, finding the right food amount for your dog may need some adjustment through trial and error. FAQs How much should a dog eat based on his weight? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. For small dogs up to twenty pounds, the recommended daily food intake is between three-quarters and one-and-one-half cups. For medium breeds weighing around thirty to fifty pounds, the ideal portion ranges from one-and-three-fourths cups to two-and-two-thirds cups of dry food per day. How can I know if I am feeding my dog enough? As a general rule , feel their ribs; they should be easily felt without excessive fat. A good energy level, steady weight, and firm stools are positive signs. Conclusion As passionate animal advocates, we embrace the responsibility of educating and supporting our pet-owner community, providing valuable insights into nutrition and best feeding practices. Unveil their true age today! Editorial-Team WAF editorial team is a passionate and diverse group that includes animal experts, researchers, writers, editors, and devoted pet owners. Our main goal is to share valuable insights about the animal kingdom and strengthen the special bond between humans and animals. Our eclectic and ever-growing team is committed to bringing you accurate and informative content to promote animal welfare and foster positive interactions with the wonderful world of animals. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore and celebrate the beauty and importance of our animal companions! Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Tweet How many calories should my dog be eating? The breed specific dog food calculator below can help you determine how much to feed your German Shepherd. Based on your dog's weight and age, you can double check to make sure that you are providing enough calories in dog food, without overfeeding. The calculator below can be used for puppies, adult and senior dogs. Please note that it was not designed to calculate nutritional requrements for pregnant or lactating females. Dog Food Calories Not all dog food calories are created equal. If you are not feeding quality pet food, your dog's nutritional needs will not be adequately met. She will need more of the inferior food to feel full. Of course, even after a quality meal, Schatzi would never turn down a turkey neck. So, if you're feeding adequate, quality food, do not be tricked into overfeeding. Too much weight on a GSD's frame will harm their joints and can severely aggravate hip dysplasia in German Shepherds. Dog Food Analysis Stay away from commercial dog food and avoid common allergens such as corn. Try a grain free dog food as well since it is difficult for dogs to diget and is used mostly as a filler. Dog food blends that list meat as the first ingredient are best. Find more tips for selecting natural pet food. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. Nutritional requirements of a German Shepherd What exactly should the diet of a German Shepherd consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your German Shepherd, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a German Shepherd, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. German Shepherd raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your German Shepherd, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. German Shepherd Feeding Chart.

A lot of people make the mistake of buying an English Bulldog without doing much research, only to later discover that these dogs have a lot of special needs. In this guide, I will lead you through all you need to know before buying an English Bulldog, and also what to look for, particularly with the breeder. What should I know before buying an English Bulldog? Although English Bulldogs are known to be sweet, loyal, and very people-centered, they are also prone to a host of health problems. This is the most important aspect of all… you need to be prepared for the potential for high vet bills. These specific needs can make them time-consuming and expensive dogs to keep. Unfortunately, far too many English Bulldogs end up abandoned once they develop costly health problems. As a result of decades of breeding to ensure a flat nose and stout figure and those famous wrinkles , English Bulldogs are unfortunately prone to a few genetic disorders. These include hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, and ventricular septal defect, where a hole develops in the heart. However, many of the other conditions that plague this breed are avoidable with a little foresight and care. As they are a brachycephalic flat-faced breed, they find it harder to breathe than other dogs. This is especially true in summer when they are prone to heat exhaustion. Additionally, they are also predisposed to a multitude of skin conditions. If the folds around their face are not kept clean, it can cause bacteria growth that can result in irritation and even infection if left for too long. With that said, these are charming and loyal dogs. Full of personality and affection, they make perfect family pets and ideal companions for the right owners. This next step will depend on whether you want to adopt an adult English Bulldog or a puppy. Each choice has its advantages and disadvantages, so it depends on which one will suit your lifestyle better. Buying English Bulldog puppies Aside from the cuteness overload, arguably the best advantage when it comes to buying an English Bulldog puppy is that you can train them early on to fit in with your lifestyle. However, if you have the time, experience, and patience to get through those initial months of training, you will have the opportunity to build an excellent bond with your new pup. Buying a puppy can present a lot of challenges, but providing you know what to look for, it will be a rewarding experience! By ensuring that they are getting adequate training from day one, you can help them to avoid bad behaviors. In a similar vein, by making sure they are getting the right healthcare early on, you can ensure that they avoid any unnecessary health complications. Buying an English Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder also means that you can be sure about their heritage. English Bulldogs are not cheap from the get-go, but as puppies, they will require plenty of trips to the vet for all their initial check-ups and vaccinations. Buying an adult English Bulldog Buying an English Bulldog who is fully grown means that there will be fewer surprises. On the downside, any bad habits they have developed will be firmly ingrained. Buying an adult English Bulldog who has already been trained can be a lot easier. The only challenge here is that it may take some time to find the right dog to fit your needs. On the flip side, there are also plenty of adult English Bulldogs looking for a home who have behavioral issues. Although some of these issues are minor and may only need remedial training to correct, there is also the risk of encountering more severe behavioral problems. A dog who displays fearful or aggressive behavior may take years of training to correct and is not a task for an inexperienced owner. The only danger here is that you may not be adopting a purebred dog. Aside from this, there are also dedicated rescues just for English Bulldogs. How to buy an English Bulldog Arguably the most crucial step you can take when choosing to adopt an English Bulldog puppy is to ensure that you are going through a reputable breeder. An honest and dedicated breeder will always put in the time and effort to ensure that any puppies they are raising are as healthy as they can be. The puppies should be socialized from a young age, and the breeder should have no issue with you coming to visit the kennels. This is where you do not want to hunt for a bargain. English Bulldogs are expensive to breed, owing to the unique complications and special needs involved with this practice. Although you could go for a cheaper puppy, you risk adopting a dog with severe health issues. As a general rule of thumb, a cheaper dog can end up costing you far more in the long run. Also, many good breeders should be able to provide you with a bill of clean health before you adopt, and they should offer you a guarantee. Once you adopt, they should give you at least two days so that you can get your new puppy checked out by your own veterinarian. If you find any unexpected health issues within this period, the breeder should be willing to offer you a refund or to replace your puppy. What to look for when buying an English Bulldog puppy Once you have settled on a reputable breeder, now comes the best bit: picking out your new puppy including what to look for when buying an English Bulldog. For one, you need to ensure you pick the happiest and friendliest puppy in the pack. If the puppy is curious and shows confidence when approaching you, that is an excellent sign. Instead, enter the enclosure where the puppies are kept, and sit down to observe them. As hard as it can be, resist the urge to reach out for any of them, and instead allow them to come to you. Doing this also allows you to observe their behavior. The puppy that you pick should be friendly, easy-going, and well natured. Other signs to keep an eye out for include: Clean eyes and ears: The puppy should not be squinting. Red eyes in particular can be a sign of a serious problem. Look for a straight tail that shows no restriction while moving: Additionally, the tail should not be pointing down. These can all be an indication of screw-tail — a malformation of the vertebra in the tail. This condition can result in severe discomfort for the dog, and expensive treatment later on down the line. See how often you should walk your English Bulldog. Where you can, avoid puppies with abnormal coloring: This type of coloration includes chocolate, black, blue, and lilac. All of these colours are clear indicators that the puppy may develop severe health issues as it grows older. Decide on a male or female puppy: In general terms, males tend to be more energetic, whereas females can be more relaxed. Be cautious if the price is too cheap. An unusually low price could be the sign of an unhealthy English Bulldog puppy. That said, by keeping an eye out for some of these signs, you are more likely to be adopting the healthiest puppy that you can. English Bulldogs only have 3 to 4 puppies in a litter and only should be bred a handful of times over their lifetime. Questions to ask an English Bulldog breeder Before you settle on buying an English Bulldog and have ticked off all the things you should look for, please, please, please question the breeder extensively. Ask how many litters the mother has had: an English Bulldog should only really have 1 litter a year, preferably only one every couple of years. More than that is a warning sign that she has been bred more than she should have been. Make sure your breeder is knowledgeable: on looking after his breed. Also Google the breeder first to see what other people have said about them. Ask if the puppy has been assessed by a vet: You also want to be sure the puppy has had the right vaccinations. Injections should be sorted out by the breeder before the puppies are available to buy. By doing so you can see what the puppy might grow up to be like and whether the mother is healthy. Ask if the parents have had health checks: This will also help you decide whether the puppy will grow up healthy with no genetic traits. Things to look out for on the health check include hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye, deafness, and soft palate problems. The best breeders will be transparent and honest. Ask how old the parents are: A mother younger than 3 years old ca present a problem as health problems might not yet have appeared yet. Try to buy an English Bulldog puppy whose mother is older than this age. Ask where the puppies have been living:You want to buy an English Bulldog puppy who has been socialized a little. Ask how often the puppies have been handled: Puppies that are handled from a young age will also be easier to train. Conclusion Regardless of these issues and health concerns, English Bulldogs are beautiful and sweet companions. They are full of personality and will be sure to make you laugh with their confidence and quirkiness. However, they do require a lot of care and attention… and any potential problems can be reduced providing you know what questions to ask and what to look out for when buying an English Bulldog puppy or adult dog. I write about the things we've learned about owning dogs, the adventures we have, and any advice and tips we've picked up along the way. Recent Posts. Contact Us Buying A Bulldog The Definitive Guide English bulldogs are the mascots of choice for many colleges, organizations, and even military branches. Bulldogs are mostly docile and well-behaved, choosing sleep over other popular canine activities. For those looking to purchase a bulldog, there are several considerations that must be made beforehand. Below are some tips on how to shop and buy a Bulldog puppy, what to look for in a breeder, and what to consider when purchasing a dog. What should I expect to pay for a puppy and how do I choose a reputable breeder? Many are surprised to find out that bulldogs are an expensive breed. In fact, quality puppies will set you back anywhere from two to four thousand dollars. But, there is a reason for this. Bulldogs are the result of specific and selective breeding process especially when it comes to champion dogs and bulldogs that represent the breed well. There are huge expenses for the breeder as well such as progesterone testing, stud fees, c-sections, milk formula, vaccinations, de-wormings, puppy checkups, special diets, whelping gear, etc. Choosing a dog because of a smaller price tag could cost you more in the long-run. You should search for a reputable English bulldog breeder. But where to start? One of these requirements is health testing. This way at least you know that you are dealing with Breeders who are conscientious about producing healthy puppies. Do not look to purchase puppies through Craigslist, Social Media Sites, Pet Stores or the Walmart parking lot yes, I have seen them for sale in parking lots! Breeders who sell thru these venues are generally profiting and are not truly dedicated to the breed. These puppies are often poorly bred which results in an unhealthy puppy. A reputable breeder will be available to you for the long haul and eager to help with any questions or concerns throughout your bulldogs life. Look for breeders who can provide you with a complete pedigree of your dog, a health guarantee, and a bill of sale. Finally, never have a bulldog shipped to you. Since they are brachycephalic flat-faced , they are less likely to survive the shipping process compared to other breeds. What should I know about Bulldog health and Cost? You should know beforehand bulldogs can have minor but common health concerns, including cherry eye and skin allergies and require excellent veterinary care so before buying a puppy make sure to have the puppy checked out by a Vet. A reputable and responsible breeder will have a clear and transparent health guarantee listed on their website and give you hours to get the pup examined at your own vet just in case there are any costly or life-threatening conditions outside the minor issues common to bulldogs that can be easily treated. Check to see if they will replace the puppy; refund you in the event something is untreatable. Caring for a female dog in heat is messy and time consuming, and male dogs with their testicles intact tend to be more headstrong and have more of a tendency to lift their legs and mount yours than neutered males. Finally, decide on appearance. White bulldogs resembling the University of Georgia mascot are very popular, but the breed standard also allows for dogs to be brindle or red. Black or blue colors however, are not part of the breed standard. The English bulldog is a great breed, but be sure to know what to look for in a breeder and in a puppy before purchasing. Finally, if a puppy is not your thing, there are many bulldog rescues throughout the country that can provide you with an adult dog. Whatever method you employ, remember to take your time, do your research, and always opt for quality over cost. For detailed information or to have a question answered by a breeder click here. Since then they have been dedicated to responsible Bulldog breeding and passionate about breeding as well as competitively showing English bulldogs. This mid-size breed is 16 to 17 inches tall at the base of the neck. Males are about 54 pounds and females 50 pounds. Adult dogs are prone to becoming overweight. Bullies have thick necks, short faces, and heavy wrinkles that need frequent cleaning. A bulldog coat is straight and short and sheds a moderate amount. The bully has low grooming requirements. The standard colors for bulldogs are fawn, red, white, or brindle tiger-stripe. They can also have 2 piebald or 3 tri-colored colors. English bulldogs are laidback and only need 20 to 40 minutes of exercise per day. But they are physically unable to swim. The bulldog is people-orientated and needs a moderate amount of attention. Bulldogs are brachycephalic flat-faced and do not do well in hot weather. They tend to overheat and have breathing difficulties. Still interested in owning an English bulldog? Due to potentially serious health risks, reputable breeders have a significant investment in each puppy. You can find bully pups online and in pet stores. They are usually more affordable but also poorly bred. These dogs typically end up costing their owners thousands more in vet bills due to ongoing health issues. Buying English bulldogs through these venues also keeps in existence an industry that thrives on the unhappiness and pain of defenseless animals. A breeder must follow stringent guidelines before the BCA will endorse them. When picking a reliable breeder, it is essential to know their reputation. How long have they been in business? Are the dogs allowed to mature before breeding? Is the breeder comfortable with you visiting their facilities? A reputable breeder should come across as open and honest and welcome your visit. Preferably, the parents will be together, and the animals can go outside to play. Check if the puppy has been socialized with cats and children as well as with other dogs. You should not buy an English Bulldog puppy if they offer to fly it to you. Are they healthy and friendly toward other animals and each other? What do they look like? Those adorable puppies are likely to grow up to look like and act like one of their parents. Meet the Puppies Of course, you are going to fall in love. Puppies are adorable! But step back a moment and make sure you pick the right puppy. Study the puppies to avoid obvious health issues. Here is a list of what to look for when buying an English bulldog puppy. If the puppy is five to six weeks old, she should walk and breathe normally. Rasping, rattling, or wheezing is a red flag. Is the puppy happy and friendly? His tail should be straight and move easily — not restricted or pointing down. The puppy should not need to squint when looking at you. Is the dog deaf? White or predominately white bulldogs are prone to deafness. The puppy should be aware of his surroundings and be lively, not sluggish or overly tired. If elongated, the soft palate can cause issues. Be cautious about selecting the runt of the litter as they may have more health issues. Temperament Is the puppy friendly? Did she come to you? Look for signs that the pup is fearful. Is he whimpering, crying, or urinating due to fear? Check for aggression or rebellion. How does the puppy act if restrained for 30 seconds? Will she follow you? Will the pup let you carry him? You want your puppy to be confident, curious, easy-going, and good-natured. Gender Male or female? Many believe a female bulldog is easier to train, and the males are less emotional. Every dog has its own personality, so judge the pups by their temperament. Body Type All bulldogs have slightly different body shapes. Observing the parents should give you a good idea of how large your dog will grow and its body type. Perhaps its head will be a bit larger or its legs a bit shorter. Color English bulldogs come in eight standard colors. The piebald 2 colors and tri-color bullies combine these colors. Brindle tiger-stripe — is a striped pattern with a different colored base. Fawn red — ranges from a pale tan to deep deer-red. White — a popular choice that may be pure white or have a few freckles in another color. Lilac — rare color variation, the purplish-gray color is a mix of blue and brown hues. Black — a rarer color, the shiny black coat may have a fawn undercoat. Blue — the coat will appear gray in the sun or against darker-colored objects. Chocolate — another rare color. A deep, rich brown. Seal — very rare. These dogs have light-colored eyes and a reddish or brownish cast to their coats. Their legs and tail will be darker than the rest of their coats, and they will have a dark stripe down their backs. Some experts suggest that bulldogs that are black, blue, lilac, chocolate, or seal color could have more health problems than the brindle, fawn red , and white dogs. The Breeder Should Question You A reputable breeder cares for his dogs and wants them to have a good forever home. It is usual for them to question you on your suitability as a dog owner. They will not be enthusiastic about selling dogs for breeding or showing, so you will pay a premium if that is your intention. A good breeder will not hand over the puppy until it is eight weeks to three months old. Before eight weeks, puppies need their mothers for health, developmental, and weaning reasons. Separating them from their mothers too soon can lead to health and behavioral problems. With another month, the bully pup learns a lot and is less miserable to leave his dam. Expect to sign an agreement with the breeder that you will have your pup spayed or neutered when they reach the correct age. Medical Records and Certification Every dog breed has some health issues, and even the best quality bulldogs can suffer from many ailments. Minimize the potential for underlying severe health issues by purchasing from a reputable breeder. Breeders with quality dogs care about their reputations and work hard to produce healthy puppies. The breeder can provide those records. A puppy with a historical bloodline of purebreds and champions shows that the line still meets the original bulldog standards and should have fewer health issues.

Due to this, they develop a great level of bounciness and mischievous habits. It is quite commonly seen that the smaller breeds mature more quickly than the big dogs. They get pretty sensible at the age of 9 months old or so. Large dogs, like Labs, mature slowly and more effort is needed to calm them mentally and physically. High levels of activity will also keep your puppy fit and healthier. Labradors start to calm down around their first birthday. You can also help your pooch by using some effective dog handling techniques. For example, taking control of the pup, avoiding physical play, and creating a distraction by providing activities are some of the most common methods to deal with hyper or over-excited dogs. Other than that, calming music and medications are also quite popular. Stairs can be dangerous for dogs when you are not supervising them during the learning phase. In this case, it is better to not allow your dog to climb stairs. Invisibility and untidy stairs are other common reasons which make stairs dangerous for your dog. Climbing stairs in the dark can also result in severe injuries to your dog. Similarly, stairs that have water on them can also make your dog fall. Does your Labrador puppy nip? Labradors are always keen to explore and learn new things from a very young age. Going out is the basic need for Labradors because of their higher energy levels. It can also help them in quick learning, socializing, and training. They begin to go out in your backyard for potty training, exercise, playing, and learning at the age of 8 weeks. However, it is better to avoid public places with untidy stairs to protect them from potential injuries and infections. Labrador puppies love to be around stairs and it can be a great sleeping spot for them. What side Harness do you need to buy for your Labrador Puppy? Just as humans, pups also have milk teeth and they will lose them as they transition to adulthood. They start to lose their milk teeth from the age of 12 weeks. At the same time, the permanent teeth start popping up and at the age of months, permanent teeth take over all the milk teeth. Labrador puppies have 28 baby teeth or milk teeth which they will lose when they become mature around weeks old. They have a total of 42 permanent teeth that they will lose when they get old or have any medical emergencies. Falling from the stairs is one of the main reasons why dogs lose their permanent teeth. Labs love to climb stairs even at an early age and owners must take proper precautions to keep them safe. Otherwise, there are vulnerable to hard falls and might lose their permanent teeth. Some safety precautions make stairs safe for puppies. Proper Supervision It is recommended that the dog owners should give proper time to their Labrador puppies and keep an eye on them when they are learning to climb stairs. In this way, your dog will remain safe and learn to climb stairs more efficiently and effectively. Improve Visibility Installing lights around the stairs and turning them on especially when there is dark around them. This will improve visibility and help your pup to climb up the stairs quite easily. Keep the Stairs Clean Just like a human baby, a pup also requires a similar kind of care. This means keeping your house and its stairs clean will offer them no falling especially when they are learning to climb stairs. You can use pieces of rubber carpet and place them on the stairs as it will increase the resistance level. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. If you are letting your Labrador puppy climb up and down the stairs, pause it immediately. Yes, luckily, Labrador puppies can climb stairs at some specific age of their life. Even at the age of 4 to 5 months old, your Labrador puppy will be strong enough to climb stairs. They will navigate up and down without falling and asking for your help. However, allowing your young Labrador puppy to climb stairs is not recommended. As mentioned above, before the age of 12 months old, your puppy may harm itself by frequently climbing stairs. Can a Labrador puppy go up and downstairs? Puppies are curious about their environment. As a dog parent, you will always find your puppy exploring everywhere. This activity is actually not safe for your puppy, and the experts do not recommend it. If you are not willing to stop your puppy from climbing up and down stairs, you must provide the proper training. The chances of falling from stairs or dislocating a hip bone are less in a well-trained puppy than in others. Is going up and down stairs bad for dogs? Yes, it is bad for a puppy to go up and down stairs. It is highly recommended to stop your puppy from climbing up and down stairs if they do it frequently. When you are not supervising If you do not have enough time to supervise your puppy when learning to climb upstairs, you should not allow them to do this. In your absence, your puppy may fall and break its hip bone along with some other injuries. Safety precautions to make stairs safe for puppies Work on these tasks to make stairs safe for your puppy. Supervise your puppy Experts recommend that dog parents keep an eye on puppies when they are learning to climb up or downstairs. You can prevent your dog from falling and getting some serious injury. Also, you can notice if your puppy is climbing up properly or not. Improve the visibility Improving visibility is always a good approach when your puppy is climbing up the stairs. You can turn on the lights and open up the curtains so that all of the stairs will be clear for your puppy. Keep the stairs clean Keep your house and stairs clean so that your puppy will not fall when learning new skills. The surface should have a grip If you believe that the surface of stairs is too slippery and there are chances of your puppy falling, you should build up some grip. You can place pieces of rubber carpet to increase the level of resistance. Installation of dog ramp For outdoor stairs, you can consider installing a ramp. It may require some training to make your puppy confident enough to use the ramp. I live in an apartment that means I have to go up or down at least one half-flight of 9 stairs to get in or out, if I use the lift. If I don't use the lift, there are 18 stairs to go down or 27 to go up to get out. When we just had Willow and she was little, she got carried. When Shadow came along, DH and I carried one each. As they started getting heavier, though, they really disliked being carried by me. They were OK with J doing it, but I think I was too small and it just wasn't comfortable for them, and didn't feel safe, so they would wriggle. Obviously not safe when walking up or down stairs. So it was at that point that they started learning to negotiate the stairs themselves. Always slowly and, since there aren't any stairs in my apartment itself, it was only when going out on walks. I used the lift wherever possible to minimise the stairs - until Willow started to freak out about going in, and we had to go with the stairs again. Until she started freaking out about the slippery stairs when she had wet feet.We now 14 months always use the stairs except if I come in the front door and they have wet feet. In that case, we'd have to go down stairs to our apartment, but it's not safe for Willow because she turns into Bambi on ice, so we walk up 9 stairs and go down in the lift, which she, incidentally, now thinks is the best thing ever. If we come in through the garage, we're below our apartment and so the stairs are up, and she's fine with that, even with wet feet. In an ideal world, there would be no stairs until the growth plates have closed. Real life sometimes gets in the way, though, and you just have to do what is best, and safest, in the circumstances. If you have just got a new family Labrador pup, you obviously want what is best for it in terms of health, happiness, and lifespan. You are probably aware that Labradors, and various other larger breed dogs, can experience hip problems usually hip dysplasia as they get older. What age can Labradors climb stairs? Labradors should only start climbing stairs after 12 months of age, or when they become too heavy for you to carry them up and down yourself. You might wonder if there is anything that you can do to minimize the risk of this health affliction. If you live in a house with stairs, there is, in fact, something you can do to limit the risk of potential problems faced by your pup, now and in the future. Most people believe that 12 weeks is old enough, but due to the fact that a Labrador is still developing until after 12 months of age and the developing hips can be damaged by wear and tear from stair climbing, it is best to avoid it until after the first year of life. If you have been letting your Labrador pup climb up and down the stairs already, it is important to stop doing so immediately. Even if you have a fully grown Labrador, you can teach them now to stop using the stairs — for their health. The simple answer is that no, you should not. Studies have shown that puppies allowed to climb up and down stairs at an early age are more prone to developing hip dysplasia. For this reason, it makes sense to carry your pup up and down the stairs or limit their access to upstairs levels. You should also not encourage your Labrador to jump until it is fully grown and even then, some caution must be taken. It may seem like your Labrador puppy handles the stairs well, but that does not mean that there will not be resulting damage. Even though you might want your beloved pet with you all of the time — many of us do — it is just not worth the risk. Their hip joint, in particular, is quite susceptible to damage if too much pressure and weight are put on it during the development stages. Labradors tend to be quite heavy little puppies and the action of climbing stairs can cause extra strain on the hip joint itself. This can cause the ball and socket of the hip joint to fit incorrectly or develop in such a way that rubbing and grinding occur, instead of the smooth and sliding movement that the hip is initially designed for. This incorrect development and functionality is called hip dysplasia which will only get worse and more intense with time. By allowing a Labrador to continue to use the stairs, it can result in discomfort, followed by deterioration of the joint and finally even eventual loss of function of the actual joint. This could render your Labrador immobile or result in painful movement. In some Labradors, this has been seen at a fairly early age. Please read our article 14 Common Labrador Health Problems to learn more about hip dysplasia and other issues. The best policy to have when it comes to your Labrador using the stairs is to discourage it completely. Even though it has been mentioned that Labradors should not use the stairs until they are older than 12 months, even after that, stair use should be very limited. You should only allow your Lab very occasional stair use. The best training you can do is teaching your puppy not to use the stairs. You can train your puppy to not use the stairs by following these training tips: Get your own mindset right first, before you begin training. When you establish the stairs are a no-go zone, it is important to never let that rule slide and to ensure that every family member reinforces the rule and never slips up. Once you and everyone else is on board, training can begin. Create an effective deterrent on the stairs that will serve as a reminder to the pup that stairs are not allowed. You can use sticky shelf liner or tin foil placed on the first few stairs and the lead-up to the stairs. This will need to be repeated often. If your dog decides to push the boundaries and try the stairs even though you have indicated it is not to be done, you need to recall the pup and physically block the stairs with your body until he turns back and heads away or stops trying. If your dog listens and moves away from the stairs, you can provide a small treat or shower your dog with praise, so that he makes a positive connection with staying away from the stairs. How to Make Stairs Safe for Your Labrador Even with ongoing training, there may be times when your Labrador attempts to climb the stairs without you knowing. Making the stairs safe is important. You can affix non-slip strips to each stair to ensure that your dog does not slip down the stairs. This can result in serious injury. Of course, if you encounter your dog climbing the stairs, resist raising your voice, chasing her off, or scaring her. Startling your dog can result in a fall or tumble which can cause further injury and damage. It can also result in the dog causing other people to fall if on the stairs. The best way to make your stairs safe for your Labrador is to incorporate a stair gate to provide a physical barrier. A baby gate is popularly used, but there are also various pet gates available on the market. If you do not want your puppy to grow into a dog that behaves incorrectly on the stairs, you will need to teach the correct behavior from day 1. Sometimes family members fail in this area. Teach your Labrador to never climb the stairs but rather to sit at the bottom of the stairs and wait for you. Teach the Labrador that if they are to use the stairs, it is done slowly and carefully patience and impulse training is good for this. If you need to play a game of fetch, do it on the ground floor or outside. It is only natural for the dog to want to come to you when spoken to. Finally While most Labrador pups will want to run up and down the stairs with their human family members, it is important to take a mature and responsible approach to the situation. Allowing your Labrador pup to go up and down the stairs can result in painful and expensive hip dysplasia in the near future. There are plenty of other areas in the home and outside where you can interact and engage with your pets — rather leave the upper levels strictly for human occupation. Related articles:. There has to be a specific age when you want to allow it. Allowing it too soon can create problems of various types like accidents. This is the same as we handle our babies when they are starting to learn to walk. Just follow the same analogy and you should be ok. A point to note here is that every lab puppy is going to grow differently with age and it depends on so many other factors like diet and puppy training sessions. Can he pull up his legs to the height of each staircase? Is the width of the staircase enough for him to place all his four paws? On a lighter note, you have to become a puppy. The stairs you and everyone in your home can climb easily can look an uphill task for the Labrador puppy. Another important point worth considering here when answering this question about allowing him or not is how active the puppy is? If he too active and energetic then he will hurry and hurt himself. Initially, the Lab puppy needs to go slow about it If the puppy is showing too much energy and excitement about everything, then it is better to let him grow up and when he has started following what you say then you can allow him his quest slowly. Its caused due to generic reasons. Moving too much and playing for long hours will increase it by the day. I have read so many posts on Facebook groups related to Labrador and Golden retriever dogs which make this false statement of attracting the disease because of climbing stairs. So, in order to further validate this, I asked the question on online forums dedicated to retrievers both Labrador and Golden. The response is the same as I described above. All kinds of people with different experience levels replied to my questionnaire. So, I can say with confidence that you can trust what has been told in this article. I will share various responses that I heard: The Lab puppy can climb stairs depending upon his energy level. If you think he will be fine, you can give it a try under your supervision and then think about whether to continue or not. The age should be a minimum of 4 months old and there is no such danger of getting hip dysplasia disease by just climbing up. You should be more worried about him slipping down or falling down than anything else. For any kind of activity, the very first need is proper puppy training. This also is no exception. We cannot conclude anything for sure from the above sentence. What I would say in this case is that it is more of a natural phenomenon regarding hip structure than using stairs. The use of stairs by a puppy is not going to harm him as such unless he is unable to balance himself. If the puppy already has it, then only hip dysplasia is going to get worse. So, we can keep the concern about hip dysplasia aside and focus on any other issue that can occur when a puppy is using stairs. As with babies, the puppies also learn by falling and getting up so getting hurt again and again is the cause of concern. You can see a ton of videos on YouTube where the puppy is running at full speed because he is so excited. The above also applies to stairs. But the amount of risk is greater here due to the height of the stairs. For this reason, you want to let the puppy grow up, walk properly on its own, control his feet and still have him climb up under supervision. How to Introduce Labrador to Climbing Stairs While he is learning, you will want to have full control over him. You want him to listen to you for the next command and proceed accordingly. For this reason, I always recommend using a leash for this type of training. Let my heel on the first stair before taking the first stair-case. First, he needs to learn how to sit on the staircase and not fall off. Climbing is easy as he can do so in excitement to reach to the top. The initial motive should be to introduce him to the stairs so much that he knows everything about the stairs. If your commands go well with the puppy then he will wait for you and will listen to you. He has to learn to be patient. With patience, he will learn to control himself and go slow with the stairs during his initial climbs. The more control he has over his speed, the better it is. Treats are a good way to have him use stairs in the way you want him to. You can make him wait as much time as you want by using the treats and leash. Just place some treats on the stair-cases and he will automatically start to follow your command just like any other training session. I also recommend to use a clicker in this training so that the commands are fully understood to him. Just keep repeating the training sessions and soon he will good to go on his own. The height is the most crucial for him to not get scared of it so you can spend more time with him at the top of stairs to get him accustomed to the height of stairs in your home. Do go through these points and you would not be disappointed. You may be tempted to allow him to roam freely at a younger age of months because he is able to walk but stairs are a different story altogether. So, let him get mature and learn more about the world around himself. Joint pain is more of an issue than hip dysplasia. For healthy life in the future, he should not too much pressure on those joints when they are delicate in his early life. It is not just about the stairs, but jumping from other heights like Truck, Bed or Kitchen Shelf also poses similar issues. While most people will give a go-ahead at months of age, it would be great if you can hold jumping and climbing activities until a year. There are so many other things that can be taught to your puppy and these include crate training, manners, not biting you, not barking. I think those need more attention in his early life. But keep in mind that getting hip dysplasia from climbing and increasing the problem further are two different things. I have discussed it so many times above in the article. One of the parts of your home that has confounded your dog the most is the staircase. At what age can a Labrador puppy go up and down the stairs? The risk of allowing even a healthy dog on the stairs too early is that they could later develop hip dysplasia. White and tan labrador dog going down the stairs. What age is a Labrador puppy considered ready to ascend or descend a flight of household stairs? You should wait until your puppy is at least a year old. The Labrador breed reaches its full height somewhere between the nine and month mark. The dog will achieve its full weight at 18 months. Your Labrador by 12 months will be 22 to 25 inches tall and weigh between 64 and 77 pounds. Many dog owners will simply gate the stairs from both sides and carry their Labrador puppy up and down the stairs as needed. This proves to your dog that the stairs are no big deal. Many dogs develop anxiety around stairs, so the sooner you can introduce your Labrador puppy to stairs, the better. You might be able to prevent that anxiety. Even 20 pounds lighter than that, you might have qualms about carrying your once-small pup up and down the stairs. And rightfully so. If you take a tumble, both you and your dog can get hurt. Feel free to allow your Labrador to begin climbing up or down the stairs sooner than 12 months if carrying them is becoming too risky. That includes their bones, joints, ligaments, and more. At such a young age, could stair-climbing negatively affect your dog? If your Labrador puppy is under 12 weeks old, then yes. When a puppy is born, its hips are primarily cartilage. The cartilage later becomes bone, but it takes time for this to happen. For example, if your dog grows up smoothly without health complications, then their hips will develop as normal. However, if your Labrador begins climbing stairs too early, the ligaments that surround the cartilage hip balls could become damaged or torn. This prevents the hip ball from fitting in the socket as it should. Now, whenever your Labrador takes a step, the bones in the hips make contact, rubbing painfully. The socket rim degrades, and hip dysplasia develops. The condition is also hereditary, and with Labradors prone to hip dysplasia, developing the painful condition might, unfortunately, be inevitable. No matter what kind of stair anxiety your Labrador has, you can train them out of it, but it might take a while. All it takes is one slip on hard stairs or the family cat darting up the staircase and spooking them and your Labrador is taking a huge tumble down the stairs. Depending on the distance your dog fell and the severity of the fall, your Labrador puppy could suffer minor injuries or severe, even life-threatening ones. At the very least, your dog could sprain or break a bone. More serious issues include head injuries and spinal injuries. Death could even occur. Tips for Safe Stair Climbing for Labrador Puppies To wrap up, we want to share a slew of tips so that as soon as your Labrador puppy begins using stairs, they can be safe. Ideally, you should always supervise your puppy each time they ascend or descend the stairs. You might not even be home during the day. Keep in mind that these gates will only work when your Labrador is young. This should reduce the incentive to want to go up the stairs in the first place. Add Grippy Surfaces Do you have hardwood stairs? If your Labrador puppy is feeling rambunctious and takes one of the stairs wrong, they can easily slip and seriously hurt themselves. Otherwise, a set of non-slip rubber treads will majorly improve the safety of using the staircase. Always Keep the Stairs Clear The stairs are not a decorative part of your home once you have a dog. This is a tripping hazard for all members of the family, including your Labrador puppy! Light the Stairs Puppies lack more than stability, but good depth perception as well. By plugging in a nightlight in the hall that illuminates the stairs or leaving an overhead light on overnight, your Labrador puppy will find it easier to get up and down. Even at that point, you still want to promote supervised use of the stairs and use rubber grips if your staircase is uncarpeted. This way, you can prevent slips and falls and possible joint and hip damage that could lead to hip dysplasia! Related Reading:. Good puppy care to limit your chances. And for these joints to work properly, the ball part, which is the bulbous end at the top of the long thigh bone, must fit neatly into the socket, which is a part of the pelvis. If the hip joint is not perfectly formed, movement is impaired, and use of the joint causes damage to the surface of the bones arthritis making a bad situation even worse. In some cases this can progress rapidly and seriously. Hip dysplasia in dogs causes arthritis, pain, and lameness. It varies in severity depending on the degree of damage in the joint, and to some extent on the individual dog. Some cases can be adequately managed with pain relief and care. But many medium to large dogs will need expensive major surgery to restore normal movement and relieve pain. Causes of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs There are two main factors at work. The other factor is the environment that the dog grows up in, particularly in early life. How fast he grows, and the way his joints are used when he is still developing, can influence the way his joints will turn out. These environmental factors include diet , exercise , and hormones. But for all the dogs in-between, we do know that there may be much that you as a pet owner, can do, to ensure your dog has healthy hips Your opportunities to help There are two main opportunities for you to ensure your puppy is free from hip dysplasia The first opportunity begins before he is born. The second begins when you bring him home. If you have already bought your pup, there is nothing you can do about the first, so just skip down the page and read up on what you can do when you bring your puppy home. There are no exceptions. Breeders can then remove dogs with bad hips from their breeding programmes. It is of course utterly irresponsible to breed from untested dogs, but the tests are expensive, so bad breeders will try and avoid them. And because puppy registrations generate money, the Kennel Club will still register puppies without scores, or with really bad scores! Check those certificates It is vital that you check the health test certificates from both parents of any puppy you consider purchasing. Remember, Kennel Club registration will not protect your puppy from having parents with bad hips. This is completely untrue. And it is thought that there are three main ways that you can help. The first is by avoiding inappropriate exercise, the second is by feeding for an appropriate rate of growth, and the third is a little more controversial as it involves delaying neutering until your dog is mature. Playing in the garden is sufficient for pups under five months old. If you take your puppy out on a leash , a rule of thumb often mentioned is no more than five minutes walking per day, for each month of his age. So that means a maximum of 25 minutes for a 5 month old puppy. This is just a guideline, to help those who are not sure how to exercise a puppy. Avoiding steps and stairs One study has shown that puppies climbing stairs at an early age were more likely to develop hip dysplasia. So it is a sensible precaution to carry your small puppy up and down steps. Diet and growth Everyone wants their puppy to grow big and strong. But optimal growth does not mean rapid growth. It is now thought that slower growth probably allows for healthier hip development. Make sure you keep your puppy slim, with a waist, and you should be fine. You can check out our feeding your puppy article for more information. In fact recent evidence has shown that neutering is implicated in a number of health problems, and hip dysplasia is one of them. A recent study of golden retrievers for example, found that the incidence of hip dysplasia in male dogs neutered early, was double that of male dogs left intact. If you want to neuter your dog, waiting until he is physically mature may reduce the impact of hormone loss on his joint development. You can read more about the pros and cons of neutering in this article: should I have my Labrador castrated? Preferably before you have a gorgeous puppy sitting in your lap and gazing into your eyes! Once you bring your puppy home, give him time to grow and mature naturally. There will be time enough for that later. Spread the word Tell everyone you know about the importance of hip scores. We need to ensure that there is no market for puppies for untested parents. Your decisions now in this respect have the power to help many puppies now and in the future. I watched this terrible disease slow down an amazing Black Lab named Tucker. He was a great dog, but at only 6 years old, he had to be put down because he was in such tremendous pain. Why do I bring up hip dysplasia in an article about Labrador puppies and stairs? Well, people often threaten that if you let your puppy climb stairs too early, she will get hip dysplasia. So, when can Labrador puppies climb stairs? Labrador puppies can climb stairs around 4 or 5 months old. At this age, the puppies are old enough to safely navigate them without falling. Going up and down stairs at this age will not cause hip dysplasia. Climbing stairs too soon, however, can exacerbate the condition if it is already there. It is a popular misconception that climbing stairs too soon can give Labrador Retriever puppies hip dysplasia. I know that I am going against the grain here, and if you disagree with me then please let me know in the comments below. Especially if you have some scientific study by qualified veterinary researchers. Until then, I think am going to be the one voice of reason in the Labrador blogosphere. Letting your puppies go up and down the stairs will not give your puppy hip dysplasia. Like my vet said, it is a genetic disease. If your puppy can develop hip dysplasia from climbing stairs too soon, then why waste the money on hip checks for the parents? When should Labrador puppies be introduced to the stairs? That can be problematic. There is clearly a time and a place for a puppy to start climbing and descending. Is he big enough to climb the stairs? Notice how much bigger the riser looks from that point of view. Will he be patient enough to take the stairs slowly? You can let your Lab puppy go up and down the stairs when they are big enough and mature enough to follow your lead and go slow! Exercise will exacerbate an already existing condition. If you own a Labrador or Golden Retriever, you should know enough about the disease to avoid the wives tales that swirl around the Retriever circles. You can check out my article on things that will cause and exacerbate hip dysplasia so that you can take care of your canine buddies. These are people with all kinds of experience in the waterfowl and AKC world. The majority of the responses all fell in line with Dr. I specifically asked about a 4 month old Labrador puppy. He can do steps as long as its not a large amount of steps. Also try to keep the pup from jumping up or down from anything. That is the age we got our gal acclimated with stairs! Spend time with him. Mine was crawling up and down on his belly at three months. Then running up and down them. Needs you there with him to coach him. There was one interesting comment that mentioned hips. However, climbing stairs at a young age can make hip dysplasia worse if the puppy already has it. How are stairs dangerous for Lab puppies? Okay, so hip dysplasia is not going to be an issue unless your dog already has it. That is not, however, the only concern when it comes to stairs. It is not uncommon for puppies to take serious falls down the stairs. The problem is that I have never met a Labrador puppy that did not want to run at everything mph and only when he is already in the air wonder if it was a good idea. My dog, Odin, is like that. He will come in the house full speed, only to realize that he cannot stop on the tile and go crashing into the wall or the island in the kitchen. That is why I think that a certain maturity level will determine the right time for Labrador puppies to start climbing stairs. How to teach a Lab puppy to climb the stairs I think the best approach in this situation is to teach your puppy to behave on the leash. Then, when you approach the stairs make him sit down at the bottom of the stairs. You can actually get your puppy accustomed to sitting at the top and bottom of any stairs. If you condition him, you pup will wait for your to either command him to proceed or wait for you to start to up or down them before proceeding. Insist that your puppy sit at the top and bottom of stairs and then wait for your command. The porch steps are a great place to practice because there is less chance your pup will hurt himself. The idea is to get your puppy to climb or descend the stairs at a controlled pace. Ideally, he will stay at heel while going up or down the stairs. To get your puppy to sit at the top or bottom of any stairs, put him on a leash and get a handful of treats. Walk your puppy to the edge of the stairs and command SIT. As soon as his bottom hits the floor, give him a treat or fire off the clicker. Repeat this several times. If your retriever looks at you inquisitively, just wait. He will likely stare at you for a moment and then, eventually sit down. As soon as he sits down, you give him the treat. Now, repeat this silent approach several times. Keep in mind, you might have to repeat this process at the top of the stairs just to make sure your pup understands that the expectation is the same at the top and the bottom. This goes for Golden Retrievers, Labradors and other big breed pups. While slowly going up and down stairs is not a problem for most Labs at 4 months old remember they need to be big enough and mature enough , you should not let them jump down from large heights. Jumping out the truck, for example, will not cause hip dysplasia but can still cause joint problems for your puppy. This can lead to joint pain later on in life and possible surgeries to fix the damage. The same can be said for jumping off a tall porch or launching himself from the last three stairs. Most dog sports like agility courses or dock jumping actually require dogs to be one-year-old before they let them participate. Stronger joints will endure the stress of constant jumping better than developing, immature ones. What about the scientific research that supports the misconception? There are some studies that are used to support the idea that climbing stairs too soon leads to hip dysplasia. However, there is an important difference between causes HP and just being correlated with it. These studies all show a correlation, but not causation. It should not surprise you that science is confused.

They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article. Thank you so much for my lovely toy poodle puppy. She's so fluffy, energetic and so much beautiful! We call her Annie. She is only the second day with us and already became a family honey! She loves running in the garden with our second dog Jerry. Jerry is quite jealous of her, but I think they will become best of friends in a few days I will send you more photos and videos in the evening With love. I just wanted you to know that they have become an important part of our family. They are very energetic and full of life we just love our new puppies. They are growing in to their dog body. I have included a picture of them. I will send you updates regularly. Take care! She got to hang out with me and my wife for about an hour before bedtime, and then she went to sleep in her new crate with no problems. Not a single peep out of her all night. She was then greeted by the boys at a. This morning, and loved them instantly! They have been talking, petting, and playing toys with her all day. Thanks so much for the wonderful pup, we just adore her. I have enclosed a couple of pics for you, and will send some more again soon. Our puppies are trained within home environment and as a result, all our dogs consistently demonstrate a delightful, intelligent and happy disposition. Money Back Guarantee.

Sometimes, supplements can do more harm than good. When should I start giving my German Shepherd puppy supplements? Most supplements can be given to your German Shepherd puppy as early as 12 weeks of age. The exception is calcium supplements, which you should never give to a puppy under 1 year old. Too much calcium can cause bones to develop too quickly, causing long term pain and joint damage. However, since German Shepherds are predisposed to developing joint issues, joint supplements are advised to be started as early as 3 months old. Keep in mind that giving supplements to your puppy could mask underlying health conditions, such as stomach problems, and make the issues hard to detect and treat. Does my German Shepherd puppy need a multivitamin? Yes, German Shepherd puppies 3 months and older need supplements, especially those for their hips, joints, stomach soothers, and improving their itchy skin and dry coats. Usually, dogs should get all the vitamins they need from a balanced diet. But in some cases, modern dog food manufacturing processes kill off essential nutrients. Multivitamin supplements, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and omega-3 oils are generally safe for puppies 12 weeks of age and older. And almost all German Shepherd puppies should be given joint supporting supplements due to their predisposition for joint-related issues. This means that you must perform your own due diligence to make sure you select safe supplements. Each supplement has its own benefits and drawbacks, which you must also take into account. Too much is a bad thing When giving multiple supplements, beware of overdosing to avoid giving too much of a good thing. In fact, more than necessary could cause unwanted side effects. Watch out for imbalances The majority of German Shepherds react well to supplements. But when giving vitamins or minerals to puppies, extra caution should be taken. This is because these supplements can lead to a nutritional imbalance that can be harmful to growing puppies. Always talk to your vet Your vet is the best resource for advice on giving supplements to your German Shepherd. Too much calcium can cause excessive bone growth which damages their joints. This fast growth can also lead to long term pain, hip issues, and other growth disorders. Supplements made for humans contain higher doses of vitamins than your dog needs. You could accidentally give them serious complications by using human supplements. With high amounts of iron and calcium, prenatal vitamins could cause iron toxicity in puppies. This can lead to serious side effects. Other vitamins, such as vitamin D, can cause organ damage in dogs. An overdose of Vitamin D can cause kidney failure. Keep your German Shepherd puppy away from caffeine! It has antibacterial properties and is therefore also found in dental hygiene products, such as mouthwash or toothpaste. The amount of xylitol found in different products varies. But shockingly, even pieces of gum may be enough to cause toxic effects in a dog source! Always keep human food and hygiene products away from your puppy. You never know what ingredient might actually cause serious problems or even fatalities in your pup. Certain supplements can give your pup a healthier lifestyle, like:. Free from additives, artificial preservatives, gluten, and added sugar, it ensures a pure and wholesome experience for your German Shepherd. The gram bottle lasts up to 6 months for smaller pups, while larger adult German Shepherds enjoy a 2-month supply. Say goodbye to bad breath and plaque troubles with this vet-recommended, tooth-saving gem. Pros Made from selected North Atlantic seaweed, free from additives and artificial preservatives Easy to use, sprinkle over dry or wet food Recommended by vets Supports normal and healthy teeth, gums, and breath odor Visible results can be seen as soon as weeks Cons Small scoop size can be challenging to handle when the powder is low. Could benefit from a longer scoop for easier measurement. Scoop may require transferring powder to a separate container for convenience. Some owners report their dogs refusing to eat their food once sprinkled with the dental powder. These chicken-flavored chew treats are specifically formulated to promote kidney, bladder, urinary tract, gut, and immune system health. With a blend of organic marshmallow root, astragalus, licorice root, D-mannose, nettle seed, and Cran-Max cranberry concentrate, this supplement provides a comprehensive solution. Owners mention that their dogs have shown positive results, from resolving urinary incontinence to reducing UTIs. Your pup deserves optimal urinary and bladder health, and this product provides the perfect solution. It may take some time for the product to take effect. Here are some of the reasons why you could give your German Shepherd health supplements, along with how they may benefit your pup: 1. Joint health As German Shepherds age, they can experience joint pain and stiffness, making it difficult for them to move around comfortably. Joint health supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin help to reduce inflammation and support joint function. These soothing supplements may help your dog remain more active and mobile. Combine joint supplements with hip pain relief for your German Shepherd. Digestive health Many German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs and experience occasional digestive issues. Probiotic supplements can help improve gut health and promote healthy digestion. Skin and coat health Dry skin, itchiness, and hot spots are common skin issues for German Shepherds. Plus, dryness and itching are lessened, promoting a healthy, shiny coat. Supplements containing ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, or L-theanine can help calm dogs and reduce anxiety. Plus, puppies who find it difficult to wind down may benefit from calming supplements. Dental health Poor dental health can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and other health issues. Dental health supplements containing plaque-reducing ingredients can help to clean teeth and improve overall oral health. Immune system support A strong immune system is important for defending against illness and disease. Brain health As dogs age, they can experience cognitive decline and memory issues. Supplements containing ingredients like DHA and EPA, found in fish oil, can help improve brain function and cognitive health. These supplements are also great for growing puppies to support their brain health. The most common methods to give supplements to your German Shepherd are: 1. You can mix powdered supplements or liquid drops into wet or dry food to make them easier to administer. Wet dog foods tend to hide the taste of powders and make it more appealing to consume the supplement. But many GSDs happily eat their dry kibble even with supplements added. Giving soft chews. You can also give supplements directly to your dog as treats. Soft chews are generally more treat-like for dogs, and German Shepherd puppies enjoy the soft texture. Administering a tablet or soft gel capsule. Another option is to provide supplements in the form of tablets or soft gel capsules. Wrapping a pill or capsule in a piece of cheese or meat can make it more appealing. Some tablets must be consumed whole to have the most therapeutic effect. When should I give my German Shepherd a supplement? Unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian, your growing GSD puppy does not require additional calcium. Most owners give joint supplements, omega-3 supplements, and probiotics to German Shepherds for a well rounded lifestyle. What supplements do German Shepherd puppies need? German Shepherd puppies generally need the following supplements:. If your puppy is picky, try these vitamins out. They contain ten minerals and eight vitamins that are essential for German Shepherd puppy development. These affordable vitamins work great for a pup that has food sensitivities. They also contain colostrum and blue algae that is good for the immune system of the puppy. They improve the digestive system, skin, and overall health of your German Shepherd. Pros They have 8 essential vitamins and 10 minerals They have great flavor Good for a picky dog Cons Puppy can overeat them as treats What to Consider when Buying Vitamins for German Shepherd Puppies Taste Understand what flavor your puppy likes first before buying supplements. To encourage your puppy to take the vitamins, they need to like the taste of what you give them. Ingredients Prioritize what your puppy needs the most in the vitamins. If your vet recommends more minerals, buy the supplements that contain minerals. If your puppy has digestion issues, buy supplements with digestion benefits. Allergies Puppies are sensitive to what they take. Read carefully the ingredients used in the vitamins before buying them. Avoid ingredients that are harsh for your puppy or those that might cause allergies. Related: Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic? Conclusion The German shepherd puppy needs vitamins for growth and proper development. Vitamin supplements play an important role in facilitating growth. They also help with skin issues, digestion problems and boost the overall immunity of the puppy. Some of the vitamins taste as good as treats. If you are looking for vitamins with many added benefits, Multifunctional Supplements for Dogs is a good package for your puppy. It is also good for pups with sensitive skin and is a value pack for your money. Related Posts:. One way to guarantee that our German Shepherds are receiving the proper nutrients they need is through a comprehensive supplement plan. A solid supplement plan can help support your pup's overall health and well-being. While all dogs need vitamins and minerals, German Shepherds require even more due to their large size and high energy levels. Incorporating vitamins specific to German Shepherds into their regular diet can aid in maintaining their coat, joint health, and digestion. By providing your pup with a complete supplement plan tailored to their needs, you can feel confident that they are receiving the proper support for a happy and healthy life. These bites are a great source of vitamins that help improve the overall health of your pet. As German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and agility, it is essential to provide them with a healthy diet that supports their active lifestyle. With Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Bites, you can rest assured that your furry friend is receiving all the essential nutrients, including vitamins, and minerals for a healthy and happy life. These treats also come in a mouth-watering chicken flavor that your pup will surely love! Pet Honesty 10 in 1 Dog Multivitamin As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry friends, which is why it's important to keep them healthy and happy. The Pet Honesty in-1 Dog Multivitamin is a fantastic product to help you achieve that goal. Specifically formulated for German Shepherds, this multivitamin is packed with all the necessary vitamins and minerals to help keep your pup in top shape. Vitamins like A, B12, and D3 play crucial roles in your dog's overall health, making this product a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With this multivitamin, you can rest assured that your furry best friend is getting all the nutrients they need to thrive. German Shepherds are very active dogs and as such, require a high protein and vitamin-rich diet to ensure their mobility is not jeopardized. Mobility Bites is packed with a combination of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and eggshell membrane which work together to promote healthy joints, cartilage, and connective tissues. This supplement comes in a yummy chicken flavor and is easy to chew, making it enjoyable for your furry friend. It is advisable to consult your veterinarian first before starting on this or any nutritional supplement to ensure it fits your dog's specific needs. These furry companions require a lot of love and attention to stay healthy and active. However, sometimes even the best of diets can have gaps in essential nutrients, which is where Healthy Breeds German Shepherd Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews come into play. These soft chews are specially formulated to provide the right balance of essential vitamins for German Shepherds, supporting their immune system, heart health, and overall well-being. Made with all-natural ingredients, these chews are easy to administer and are a great way to ensure your furry companion is getting all the essential vitamins they need. German Shepherds, while strong, muscular and agile, require a balanced diet and adequate nutritional supplements to remain in optimal health. This is where the Healthy Breeds German Shepherd All in One Multivitamin Soft Chew comes in as it provides a convenient and effective solution for adding essential vitamins and minerals into your dog's diet. Each chew contains a carefully-blended and researched combination of vitamins and minerals that have several health benefits for German Shepherds, including improved joint health, enhanced skin and coat condition, and a strengthened immune system. The soft texture of the chew makes it easy for your dog to consume, and they're available in a variety of flavors. When it comes to keeping your German Shepherd healthy and happy, incorporating a multivitamin soft chew into their dietary regimen is an excellent place to start. VetPro Dog Vitamins and Supplements As pet owners, ensuring our furry friends are as healthy as possible is a top priority. This is where VetPro dog vitamins and supplements come in - these products offer an extra boost of nutrition to support your furry friend's overall well-being. But what sets VetPro apart from other options on the market? Specifically, their focus is on quality ingredients that are specifically tailored to different breeds. For example, VetPro offers a range of vitamins for German Shepherds, which are formulated to address some of the unique health needs of this breed. Whether you're looking to address a specific health concern or simply give your dog an extra boost, VetPro dog vitamins, and supplements are worth considering. However, like all dogs, they are also prone to developing joint issues as they age. That's where a balanced breed dog multivitamin glucosamine chondroitin dog joint supplement comes in handy. This supplement is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients that help support your German Shepherd's overall health, while also providing targeted support for their joint health. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two key ingredients that work together to promote joint health and mobility, allowing your furry friend to stay active and comfortable throughout their golden years. So if you want to ensure that your German Shepherd stays healthy and happy for years to come, consider adding a balanced breed dog multivitamin glucosamine chondroitin dog joint supplement to their daily routine. Coco and Luna 10 in 1 Multivitamin for Dogs As a pet owner, you always want to make sure that your furry friend is getting the best care possible. German Shepherds, in particular, are known to be large and energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and nutrition to stay healthy. This multivitamin supplement is specifically formulated for dogs and contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve overall health and vitality. But did you know that even with a healthy diet, your dog may still not be getting all the necessary nutrients? Formulated specifically for dogs like German Shepherds, this supplement packs a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals that work together to improve your dog's overall health and well-being. With ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, it also supports joint health and can help prevent joint-related issues that are common in larger breeds. Plus, with its easy-to-chew form, your pup will look forward to getting his daily dose of nutrition. These easy-to-administer vitamins are specially formulated to support joint health and overall well-being. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin E and B12, NaturVet's blend is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of older dogs. Plus, the added Glucosamine helps to support joint health - a common concern for aging dogs. These daily vitamins contain everything from antioxidants to support a healthy immune system, to omega-3s for healthy skin and coat. However, like all dogs, they have specific health needs that must be addressed to keep them happy and thriving. This targeted supplement is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients specifically formulated to support the unique health needs of German Shepherds. From hip and joint support to immune system boosters, this supplement is designed to provide the comprehensive care that every German Shepherd deserves. So, if you're looking for a way to give your furry companion the best chance at a long, healthy life, WoofWell Breed-Specific Health Support Supplement is the perfect choice. Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs As pet owners, we all want our furry friends to live long, healthy, and happy lives. That's why it's important to ensure that our dogs are getting all the nutrients they need, including probiotics. Probiotics help boost gut health, which in turn promotes a strong immune system and supports regular digestion. Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs is a great option for those looking to supplement their dog's diet. Specifically formulated with a blend of probiotics and prebiotics, these vitamins for German Shepherds help maintain digestive and immune health. Additionally, they may also help with skin and coat health, which is especially important for breeds prone to skin irritations. Give your furry friend the gift of good health with Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs. Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs As pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends are receiving the best possible care to maintain their health and well-being. One important aspect of caring for our canine companions is providing them with the necessary vitamins and nutrients. Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs is an excellent option for German Shepherds and other breeds, as it contains a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support their overall health. From boosting immune function to promoting healthy skin and coat, this daily multivitamin has been formulated to meet the specific needs of dogs. So if you want to give your furry friend an extra boost of wellness, consider trying Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs. This supplement is specifically designed for senior dogs, including those of the German Shepherd breed, to provide them with key vitamins and minerals to support their overall health and wellness. With ingredients like antioxidants to boost immunity, digestive enzymes for better nutrient absorption, and CoQ10 to support heart health, this supplement is a fantastic addition to any senior dog's diet. Conclusion In conclusion, the well-being and vitality of our German Shepherds are of paramount importance, and providing them with the necessary vitamins is crucial for their overall health. By incorporating the 16 best vitamins specifically formulated for German Shepherds into their daily regimen, we can strengthen their immune system, promote optimal joint and bone health, support their cognitive function, and enhance their coat and skin condition. With these valuable resources, we can continue to provide our German Shepherds with the highest level of care, ensuring they lead healthy, active, and joyful lives for years to come. Related Content.