labrador retriever puppy for sale

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Looking for an English Bulldog puppy for sale? We have top quality English Bulldog puppies for sale from the best world renowned champion bloodlines. Offering sales and delivery of our puppies nationwide. For those who want the very best. You can trust us for your next family member. Our website has been online since .We are breeders of Bulldogs living to .We are not associated with any other breeders or resellers. All of our puppies are home raised by us from our dogs. If you are looking for a reputable breeder with top quality English Bulldog puppies for sale give us a call to help you find your perfect puppy. Our puppies are very loved and well taken care of and we want this to continue when they go to their new homes. All of our Bulldogs are bred to standard from European champion bloodlines. Buyers can call us anytime for advice and guidance after you bring your puppy home. We offer Personal hand delivery by our courier to most U. Buyers of our puppies are also welcome to fly to our nearest airport we will meet you there and you can take your puppy back home with you as a carry-on. We are approved by all. We are top rated by our puppy buyers on Facebook as well. Quality is not cheap. Our puppies are no exception. If you are price shopping you may be looking at the wrong breeder. We have a lot of time, money and effort in our dogs and their care. We want only the best at Brenglora Bulldogs. Be aware a low priced English Bulldog puppy for sale may have high veterinary costs due to health problems. Bulldogs in general have always been considered expensive compared to other breeds due to high expense of c-section births and around the clock care of newborn puppies. Also newborn Bulldog puppies can have a high mortality rate. As reputable english Bulldog breeders, we are not about the latest fad for making more money. Fads are Mini Bulldogs, non standard colors and eye color not allowed in the Bulldog breed standard. Bulldogs were meant to be as described in the breed standard not to be non standard colors or sizes. Breeding to the breed standard and protecting the Bulldog breed is why we breed Bulldogs. Understanding and using pedigrees of the best Bulldogs available and knowing what those dogs contributed to their offspring is vital to producing the best English Bulldog puppies and avoiding health problems. Carelessly bred English Bulldog puppies for sale are a dime a dozen and are most likely to have health or temperament issues. Do yourself a favor and purchase your English Bulldog puppy only from a qualified breeder not a backyard breeder or pet store. Look for Bulldog breeders that are breeding to improve the breed. These breeders are more likely to be reputable. At Brenglora Bulldogs we take pride in producing top quality English Bulldog puppies for sale to families and individuals wanting a healthy, well bred English Bulldog puppy. We will have new litters born in .Reservations being accepted now. Call us to get information for future puppy availability. Since we are not a mass producer or re-seller we do not have English Bulldog puppies for sale all of the time. The focus at Brenglora Bulldogs is more on quality and health not how many pups we can sell. Reserve your puppy from future litters to get the English Bulldog puppy you have your heart set on. With a reservation you can look at each litter until you find the puppy you fall in love with. We offer standard colors only seen in purebred Bulldogs. We usually have, Red, light fawn, or white. The fawn or darker red are usually combined with white markings. English Bulldog Puppy. Sold English Bulldog Puppies for sale from the more reputable breeders are bred to standard, vet checked, and raised in a loving environment. When it comes time to sell the puppies, the breeder carefully screens potential adopters. At Brenglora Bulldogs we are Bulldog Enthusiasts and follow these practices when planning a litter and selling our puppies. We keep a waiting list for our puppies and want to assure they get the best homes. Our English Bulldogs are all our pets and are treated as family members. The English Bulldog breeder you choose will be the best or worst decision you can make when looking at an English Bulldog puppy for sale. Pick your breeder carefully and as a result, you will be assured of the healthiest English Bulldog puppy having the least amount of issues. When you purchase a puppy from Brenglora Bulldogs, you will have lifetime advice and guidance. As far as breeding healthy Bulldogs goes we have been breeding long enough to know how long our dogs live. We have gotten feedback from puppy buyers over the years and have had many healthy Bulldogs. We breed Bulldogs that are healthy and look like a Bulldog should and have the track record to prove it. We have bred many living to .And most are relatively problem free. We have several generations in our 40 plus years breeding. Our reputation is built on the puppies we have produced with many happy puppy buyers across the U. We offer our English Bulldog puppies for sale nationwide. Check out our English Bulldog puppy videos Contact us to get on our future puppy waiting list or for more information. Nationwide sales and delivery. If you are looking for the cheapest puppy you can find please go elsewhere. The puppies are priced according to quality. You are paying for a top quality puppy and our 40 years experience with the breed. Bulldogs are not an inexpensive breed. Ours are no exception. We are very busy so we appreciate serious inquiries only. We do not have English Bulldog puppies for sale all of the time so you may be on our waiting list for a bit awaiting your English Bulldog puppy. They are well worth the wait. All rights reserved. No part of this website can be copied or transmitted in any form without written permission. Brenglora Bulldogs-Augusta, KS. We sell and deliver puppies Nationwide. At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?

However, as their genetics play a role here, some backcross generations like F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb may show more Poodle-like characteristics, such as being more active and playful. It has also been reported that Mini and Toy Bernedoodles may be somewhat more energetic than Standard Bernedoodles. In general, the perfect dog! All in all, Bernedoodles are sweet and friendly Doods. As much as they love playing fetch and their daily walkies, Bernedoodles want nothing more than to snuggle up on the couch with you after a long day. Of course, early socialization is crucial to raise a well-socialized and confident Bernedoodle. For this, make sure you introduce your pup to adults and children, other dogs, and cats from an early age. Easy To Train From the highly intelligent Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents, the Bernedoodle has inherited its smarts and the ability to pick up new tricks and habits very quickly. See Also: Click the image As with any other dog, the key here is positive reinforcement and early introduction to good behavior and manners. Moreover, owners report that Berneodoodles respond especially well to positive reinforcement with tasty treats. Something worth remembering! The downside of having such a witty pup is that Bernedoodles can easily become bored and start showing undesired behaviors. Daily mental and physical stimulation are crucial to keep your Dood occupied with fun and interesting activities and games, and prevent them from becoming stressed or destructive. Poodles are highly active, whereas the Bernese Mountain Dog is more relaxed and laid-back. By combining these two outdoorsy breeds, we get rather active Bernedoodles that enjoy their daily walkies and playtime. Additionally, Toy and Mini Bernedoodles may also be more active compared to larger Standard Bernedoodles. Due to their size, Standard Bernedoodles would do better in a spacious home with a fenced backyard, where they have plenty of space to roam around. In contrast, smaller Mini and Toy Bernedoodles can also live perfectly well in apartments provided that they get to exercise each day. Are They Good With Strangers? Bernedoodles are outgoing and social, and enjoy being at the center of the attention. But as with any other breed, the key to raising confident and well-rounded adults lies in proper socialization and training. However, sometimes their protective mode may kick in, and they can be slightly cautious of new people. In addition to that, because Bernedoodles can be a little bit sensitive, they may also be a bit standoffish around new people and in new surroundings. Nonetheless, if your pup has met plenty of new people and other animals, they should generally do well around strangers. Unfortunately, this can also make the Bernedoodle a bit harder to train, especially during the adolescence period. Just make sure you stay consistent with training, and your pup will soon catch up. Fortunately, Bernedoodles usually grow out of their stubbornness as they mature emotionally. Of course, they may still show their stubborn side from time to time. Furthermore, their sensitivity is also something worth considering when it comes to training. Although we always recommend training puppies and dogs only with positive reinforcement, the Bernedoodle especially needs a gentle and loving approach. After all, they come from the Swiss Alps, where one of their main responsibilities has been herding cattle. If your pup has inherited this Bernedoodle personality trait, they may try to herd smaller family members, such as children, smaller dogs, and cats. Fortunately, the excessive need to herd can be prevented with proper training and socialization. If left undealt with, it can become a behavioral concern over time. Separation Anxiety As outgoing, loving, and affectionate as Bernedoodles are, their ability to bond so easily comes with its negatives. Namely, it can often lead to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways. Typically, dogs start excessively whining, barking, chewing, pacing, or digging. Some pups lose their appetite, others start leaving accidents around the house. Not only is this unpleasant for the owner, it also causes emotional distress to the dog. If you work long hours away from home, one option would be to sign your pup up for doggy daycare or hire a dog walker. For this reason, Bernedoodles might not be the best choice for people who have to leave them alone for long periods of time, including office hours. See Also: Click the image High Energy Levels Although we listed their energy levels as a positive for many reasons, it might also be a dealbreaker for many dog owners. As the Bernedoodle temperament can lean on either side of its lineage, some Bernedoodles are naturally much more active, just like their Poodle parents. These Doodles love to hike, jog, swim, and do almost anything outside. And if the pup is highly active, it can become a bit too much to handle for some people. Very active Bernedoodles may even need up to two hours of exercise each day. Are Bernedoodles Suitable For You? So, does the Bernedoodle temperament match your own lifestyle and family dynamics? Bernedoodles are the perfect pets for almost anyone. The Bernedoodle is a social and affectionate companion that thrives in human company. As an added bonus, the Bernedoodle comes in three different sizes. Firstly, Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and moderately active, meaning that these dogs require plenty of mental and physical stimulation every day to avoid destructive behaviors. Secondly, since Bernedoodles are social and affectionate dogs, they are prone to separation anxiety. However, with early training and socialization, puppies usually grow out of it once they reach adulthood. In terms of other negatives, the Bernedoodle is also rather expensive and high-maintenance. On top of that, there are all the ongoing costs of dog ownership , including regular trips to the groomers every few months, and time investment of daily grooming activities at home. On the other hand, as some puppies tend to be stubborn, it may take a little bit longer for them, and require more patience on your end. With consistent training, puppies can usually be mostly house trained within a month or two, especially with positive reinforcement and yummy treats. Realistically, Bernedoodles can be fully house trained somewhere between 3 and 6 months, sometimes even up to a year. We recommend you start your new puppy on potty training as soon as you bring them home to successfully establish good bathroom behaviors. We hope you gained some new insights into the Bernedoodle temperament, along with its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision beforehand. By Chris Nothing is more exciting than bringing a new puppy into your home. With a new puppy, your home is transformed into a playground. What to do when your puppy growls and snaps at you? Reasons my puppy growls and snaps at me? It can become alarming, however, if your puppy starts to show signs of aggression. Puppies like to chew and often bite, but learning how to tell the difference between a natural, playful bite and an aggressive snap is critical. Teaching your puppy at a young age what is and what is not acceptable is very important for new dog owners. Even more critical is recognizing if your dog is behaving in an aggressive and potentially dangerous way. Aggression can make your dog unfit to live in your home, especially if you have young children. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about what to do if your puppy is growling and snapping at you. I will show you the warning signs of aggression to be aware of and how to teach your puppy that snapping is not okay. Mouthing is a natural way that puppies explore their environments and engage with things. Your puppy will likely put your hands and feet and any other objects it can find into its mouth and bite on them. This, however, is usually a very light pressure and will not be a powerful or aggressive bite. Puppies learn from their mother and their littermates how much biting pressure is acceptable before it begins to hurt. If a puppy was unable to receive these cues from its mother and siblings at a young age, it might bite harder than intended and even pierce the skin. If your puppy seems to be biting aggressively, and it is not a playful or curious nibble, then there may be a different underlying cause. If your puppy is growling and nipping, they are likely feeling threatened and in a situation they do not want to be in. Things That Could Cause Aggression Here are a few examples of reasons why your dog may feel threatened or aggressive: Your dog may feel frustrated, which is causing him to act out. Your dog may be in some sort of physical pain. If your puppy is feeling sick or hurt in some way, they may act out to keep you from bothering them. If your dog has a toy or treats that he does not want you to take from him, he may growl and snap at you to keep you away. This is a natural territorial instinct. If your puppy is showing aggression around their food and toys, this could be an early indicator of long-term aggressive behaviors. If your dog is feeling fearful and threatened, perhaps by another dog or a scary situation, he can communicate this by barking, growling, pouncing, and snapping. How To Teach My Puppy Not to Bite Check your dogs teeth for stuck food , build ups or inflammation If your puppy does not receive the training they need from their mother and siblings in the first few weeks of their life, you will have to teach them that biting is unacceptable. If your dog bites someone, owners are liable in most states. The first step is to take your dog to a veterinarian to ensure that there are no inherited or neurological problems that are causing your dog to act aggressively. You need to locate the root of the problem in order to solve the issue. Teething If your puppy is teething, this may be causing them to chew and bite aggressively. Ensure you provide your dog with adequate chew toys and teething-specific treats to keep them entertained and show them what is and is not okay to bite. There are a number of different toys created specifically for puppies that are teething. It can be an uncomfortable process for dogs, and they need to bite and chew. Fearful If your puppy is acting out of fear, it is critical to deal with the issue before it escalates. First, you need to identify what is causing your dog to be fearful. Slowly expose your dog to the source of fear. Put him in a comfortable environment and let him get close to the source at his own rate. Use treats, positive encouragement, and toys to make him relax. Give lots of positive feedback and affection. This takes time and resilience and will not be a fast process. Hang in there and be encouraging along the way. If your dog does not begin to improve, consider speaking with a dog behaviorist to see if anything more serious is going on. Rough Play A Chihuahua playing tug on a carpet If your puppy seems to show aggressive behavior when he is playing, simply walk away when playtime gets too rough. You need to teach your dog that growling and snapping lead to the end of playtime. Begin playing again when he is calm and happy, and when he growls, get up and leave. After enough of this, your pup will understand that he cannot get what he wants by growling, and if he wants to continue playing, he will have to stop. If he bites your arm or hand when playing, stop engaging with him and give him a chew toy to bite-redirecting his energy to an item that he is allowed to chew on will teach him what is okay to chew on and what is not. Providing proper stimulation for your dog is critical. Giving them enough toys and treats to keep them entertained and keep them from chewing on you or other unwanted items will help teach them what is okay to bite and limit their aggression towards you. Training When training a dog , it is crucial to reward their positive behaviors rather than punish them for their wrong behaviors. This is because dogs aim to please and understand positive reinforcement as a way of communication. Punishment can be unclear to dogs and confuse them further. Instead, you should reward your dog each time they pee outside so that they know they are doing what is right when they go outside rather than on the rug. One of the standard recommendations for dogs that are acting this way is crate training. Look into professional training if you feel that it is necessary to train your dog how to behave. There are trainers that focus specifically on aggressive dogs, so this could be something worth looking into. A curly tailed Shiba Inu having the time of its life at the beach Exercise Take them outdoors to exercise regularly. Puppies have a lot of energy and need to relive it regularly. If you do not provide your dog with enough exercise, they can get antsy and release it through aggression. If your dog is pacing and growling, it may need to take a trip to the park and chase the ball. It is also important to let your dog socialize with other dogs. Socialization will keep your dogs confident and comfortable in all situations and around any type of dog. Unsocialized dogs will get defensive and fearful when approached by other dogs, causing growling and aggression. There are many ways to reverse and correct undesirable behaviors, especially in small puppies. Consult with a veterinarian before jumping to any conclusions to make sure that your dog is healthy and fit for your home. Locating the issue and fixing the problem will ensure that your puppy grows up to be a loving, trained, and well-behaved dog. Tweet When two breeds are crossed, some of the advantageous and disadvantageous traits of the parent breeds are genetically passed on to the progeny. There are several reasons why Bernedoodles are a popular breed. They are beloved by many due to their adaptability, lovely curly coats, absurd habits, and clever temperament. Although the Bernedoodle is regarded as a fantastic substitute for the Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, they are not without problems. They Can Be Extremely Stubborn. The headstrong nature of the Bernedoodle is a well-known behavior among this breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for its tendency toward stubbornness. Some of these obstinate traits may have been passed down to your Bernedoodle, but they will improve as your dog ages. The Bernese were bred to labor alone to guard the land and herd livestock. The Poodle is quite smart. When you mix the two, you get a dog that can occasionally be stubborn. They can also be raucous. Owners should never put off starting socializing and training because of this. Fortunately, with the right training, most of their intransigence disappears. Owners of Bernedoodles have remarked that even if their dogs were aware of commands, they would often choose not to carry them out, particularly if they dreaded doing something. But that does not imply that they cannot be trained. Although Bernedoodles adore their families and strive to please them, you must immediately set aside time to form a strong connection with your new puppy. With time and persistence, you will be rewarded with a lovely companion. Smart dogs also require ongoing mental engagement to prevent boredom. For example, a clever, bored dog who starts gnawing on things around the house can turn destructive. They Frequently Experience Separation Anxiety. The Bernadoodle is prone to separation anxiety, just like other doodle dogs. The Bernese was bred to be a working farm dog, but the Poodle was bred to be a hunting companion. Both kinds were developed to coexist with humans. Bernedoodles struggle in a home where there is no constant attention given to them. They are family-oriented dogs, after all. Bernedoodles require a home where someone is always present so they may receive care. For people who are employed full-time, Bernedoodles are not a good choice. It makes sense why Bernese always wanted to be nearby when they were also used as herding dogs. These canines function best when they are with a person most of the day. Bernedoodle owners frequently remark on how much their dogs follow them around. This is especially important for socialization, exercise, training, and overall excellent temperament while they are puppies. Start teaching them to spend time alone when they are still puppies for the simplest way to avoid separation anxiety. Start with a brief time, and extend it as they get older. These canines are not the kind that should be left alone all day. You are not the perfect candidate for this breed if your way of life requires you to be active all day. It can be difficult for people who spend a lot of time away from home because this breed frequently needs care from their owners. Instead, you should sign them up for dog boarding if necessary. They Take Time To Mature. The common Bernedoodle is known for maturing gradually. In actuality, larger dogs typically take longer to mature than smaller canines, and it can take a Bernedoodle up to two years to grow to full size and weight. However, not only their physical maturation is slow, but also their cerebral development. Owners of Berniedoodles report that their puppies settle down and put an end to their mischievous behavior between the ages of 2 and 3. This includes behaviors like counter-surfing and gnawing on prohibited goods. Additionally, housebreaking them might take more time. A Bernedoodle will settle down as it ages, just like any other dog, and then much more as it ages. The Bernedoodle is a fantastic option if you want a dog who behaves like a puppy for a long time. Miniature Bernedoodles will develop a bit more quickly. They Are Prone To Mischief. Although not all Bernedoodles behave this way, several owners have mentioned how they enjoy stealing items like socks and moving them from one location to another. It can be considered cute in some situations, but it can also be a serious issue in others—especially because they enjoy eating socks and other clothing. Although the larger doodle breeds have admittedly consumed objects made of material, the Bernadoodle seems to do it more frequently than any other doodle. They are known to surf the counter as well as steal things. Given their size, a normal Bernedoodle may easily reach the kitchen worktops or dining room table. They are not an ideal partner for someone who likes to leave things lying around due to this inclination. Highly Vocal Dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy speaking up. These dogs bark. A lot. Barking, whining, and grumping are examples of this. However, not everyone wants a canine that responds to commands or barks whenever someone passes by the house. If you leave your Bernedoodle alone for too long, it might start barking a lot. They are renowned for being highly sensitive and anxious. They become uneasy when left alone, which causes them to bark. They could feel safer if you play soothing music for them or keep the lights on. Placing the dog beside the window so it can gaze out is also a smart option. Your Bernedoodle may become bored and start barking if it discovers that it is idle. Give your Bernedoodle some amusing toys, or simply play with them. When they see their owner or anything else they enjoy, Bernedoodles are thrilled. Simply ignore the dog until it stops barking. Bernedoodles take their domain seriously and do not like having outsiders in it. They can lunge and bark when they see strangers or other new faces. They are also only worried about risks of any kind. Here, gradual socialization is crucial. As was previously mentioned, Bernedoodles take their territory seriously and may become aggressive when someone enters it, especially when they are eating or drinking. Due to their great sensitivity, Bernedoodles have problems handling loud, shocking stimuli. When they eat or drink, let them alone. Conclusion These dogs have kind, wise, and modest personalities. They get along well with children, which makes them excellent for families, but they also get along well with single owners. They frequently exhibit suspicion when interacting with strangers. To address this, however, early socializing skills development is very important. Bernedoodles do not exhibit aggressive traits, especially if they are raised in a favorable breeding environment. But because they need constant socialization from their humans, they are more likely to experience separation anxiety, which can result in other negative behaviors. For instance, chewing on objects around the house when their owners are gone is a typical symptom of separation anxiety. Bernedoodles get along well with other dogs in addition to people, but for this to happen, they often need to start socializing at a young age. If a Bernedoodle owner or breeder puts off socializing and training the dog for too long, the result could be a dog with no tolerance for other animals. These hybrids have been in existence since only the early s. The original breeder is Sherry Rupke, a Canadian who first bred her own Bernedoodles in Ontario in .In terms of personality, these dogs are loving, intelligent and modest. They get along well with kids, making them great for families, but they get along well with individual owners as well. Working on their socialization skills early on, however, can do a great job of combatting this. Bernedoodle puppies, however, can be a bit stubborn. They also can be rowdy. This is precisely the reason owners should never wait around to start socialization and training. Fortunately, most of their stubbornness goes away with some proper training. This breed often requires a lot of attention from their owners as well, which can be an issue for people who spend a lot of time away from home. But, regardless of what your schedule is, you should not leave a Bernedoodle on its own for extended periods of time. If necessary, you should enroll them at a dog boarding facility. Bernedoodle Training Tips These dogs do not typically develop aggressive behaviors, especially if they grow up in a healthy breeding environment. For example, a common sign of separation anxiety is chewing up items around the house when their owners are away. In addition to people, Bernedoodles also get along well with other dogs. However, this is typically contingent on them being socialized beginning at an early age. If an owner or breeder waits too long to socialize and train a Bernedoodle, he or she may end up with a dog that completely dislikes the presence of other animals.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Massachusetts is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Massachusetts that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Massachusetts that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Massachusetts, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Massachusetts, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Massachusetts, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Massachusetts, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Dog-Friendly Businesses Massachusetts has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Massachusetts. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Massachusetts is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Massachusetts? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. This designer breed loves their family, is devoted to them, and strives to be a committed, involved member of the family. Although the English Boston-Bulldog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. English Boston-Bulldogs tend to make great family dogs. They bond closely with their families, are affectionate, and love nothing more than being with them. They also tend to have a playful, comedic personality paired with a calm, gentle nature. These dogs tend to get along fantastically with children. As long as they are properly socialized, they also get along well with other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. They can be prone to barking if boundaries for this behavior are not established early on or if they are inadvertently trained into it. The English Boston-Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They adapt well to just about any home including apartments. But, as a brachycephalic dog breed, they are highly sensitive to heat and cold. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time because they bond so closely with their families. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mixed-breed dog could inherit nothing from their parent breeds, they could also inherit any combination of the potential health conditions common to their parents or even all of them. In the case of the English Boston-Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of include cherry eye, skin infections, glaucoma, cataracts, and heart problems. Because they are a snub-nosed dog breed, they are at a higher risk for heat stroke in higher temperatures. So, you need to be careful in the heat and also use safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to keep them from overheating. Reputable breeders will be screening their dogs to avoid passing congenital issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask to see results or clearances from any tests that have been done. This dog breed tends to be highly trainable and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They are intelligent and pick up on things quickly. Plus, they are eager to please. They can be stubborn at times, especially if they are bored with repetition. Although this can be a challenge for first-time dog owners, they can usually navigate it well as long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward. These dogs are sensitive and will strive to perform to your expectations as long as those expectations are clearly and consistently communicated. On top of that, they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. An English Boston-Bulldog has a short coat that sheds a little year-round. Because debris can get in their large eyes and trapped in their wrinkles, you need to regularly check these areas and clean as needed to help prevent irritation and other issues. Weekly ear checks can go a long way in helping to prevent ear infections. Ears should be dry, clean, and free of debris, redness, or other concerning things. A good dental care routine is also essential. English Boston-Bulldogs will be full of energy as puppies and will mellow out a little as they age. They will be in a more moderate activity range when they are young with bursts of energy while playing. As they age, they tend to settle into a lower activity range. Daily walks plus plenty of playtime are usually enough for these dogs. English Boston-Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weighs pounds. English Boston-Bulldog generally lives for years. Featured English Boston-Bulldog Article. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Boston MA? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Boston MA? There is always a range of prices available for Bulldog puppies for sale in Boston. Some Bulldogs are more expensive than others due to coat color, puppy gender, breeder and business experience and location, and whether or not the Bulldog puppy has had its shots or not. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Boston? You may be searching Uptown Puppies and not be able to find any Bulldog breeders in Boston and businesses, or Boston Bulldog puppies for sale. There are a number of Bulldog puppy breeders and businesses from out-of-state that you can connect with! How are the Bulldog breeders screened? Why is Uptown Puppies so unique from other Bulldog puppy-finder websites? Bulldog puppies for sale Boston are very popular nowadays, and therefore we designed the perfect Bulldog for sale Boston site that creates real connections between families looking for Bulldog puppies, and the best breeders and businesses available. We have done all the hard work to make sure you end up with the best puppies! What is a Boston puppy mill like? This happens because more often than not, these puppies are born in little dirty cages that are stacked up upon one another. Can I get a Bulldog puppy right now? Just start your search journey on Uptown Puppies, and a Boston Bulldog for sale will be yours soon! What type of dog is a Bulldog? Boston Bulldogs for sale are really sweet, kind, and lazy dogs that are affectionate, loyal, goofy, and funny. Their faces are all wrinkled, in fact, because they were bred to look the way they do to keep them safer in fights. Are Bulldogs big? What are their temperaments like? Bulldogs in Boston live 8 to 10 years, and are medium-sized dogs that happen to be very heavy just try pick one up! Are Bulldogs happy in apartments? What is the grooming process for Bulldogs? Important grooming tips for Bulldogs Boston are first to brush their coat every day, as it keeps it smooth and shiny. You also need to brush their teeth every day, clip their nails, and shampoo them every few weeks.

If socialized early, the French Bulldog Pitbull Mix can get along well with other pets. Although they are not aggressive, dogs of the same sex can have problems if they are not spayed or neutered. In addition, pitbulls have a high prey drive which can be a problem for cats and small pets. However, proper training and socialization will often alleviate this problem. Food and Dietary Requirements American French Bull Terriers can be a bit more similar to other breeds in terms of diet. However, they should eat mostly meat. However, they are prone to overeating and should only be fed when necessary. They can quickly become overweight if given too much food. A diet rich in lean animal protein, easy digestion and nutrients is essential for them. Fish sources are a good source of healthy omega-3 and 6 fatty acids that are essential for the health and well-being of your dog's coat. You should give your dog at least cups of dry food daily, depending on his size and activity level. It should also be supplemented occasionally with lean meats. We only recommend the highest quality dry foods possible, as French Bulldogs can be allergic to certain dry foods. Avoiding ingredients like wheat, corn, or soy is a good idea. They can cause skin irritation, digestive issues, and rashes. Exercise American French Bull Terriers need regular, daily exercise, but not as much as their Pitbull parents. A brisk walk of about an hour a day should suffice; however, these dogs are temperamental and energetic and may need more. They love to play and will enjoy agility and play in the yard. French bulldogs can have difficulty breathing when overworked. If your dog inherits the flat muzzle from the Frenchie, he may also have breathing issues. These dogs, like smaller breeds like pugs, are often brachycephalic. Keep an eye on them during exercise to ensure they are breathing correctly. They can become extremely hot and angry, which may require surgery. However, French Bulldog Pitbull Mix often inherits the muzzle from Pitbull parents, which is not a problem. Their intelligence and speed make them easy to train. It is essential to mention that both parent breeds can be stubborn and independent at times which can make training difficult. The training to be as interactive and fun as possible to overcome this problem. Training sessions should be limited to 20 minutes. This will reduce the likelihood of them getting bored or distracted. To speed up the process and cement the commands, training can and should be incorporated into daily life. It all starts the day they arrive home. An example: ask them to sit down before eating, before going for a walk, and before rewarding them with a treat. Training is incomplete without socialization. These dogs come from a long history as farm animals and hunting dogs and should be introduced to their family members as soon as possible. It is also important to socialize your dog with other dogs. Walking in the park and being exposed to other animals and dogs will help you get used to people and other dogs. Aside from occasional brushing to remove hair, they require very little maintenance. They may need to be washed down with water if they get muddy, but avoid soap and shampoos as they can damage their skin and coat. To prevent infection or pain, keep their nails short and brush their teeth regularly. However, French Bulldogs are classic designer breeds and can have a number of genetic health issues. Some of these problems can easily be passed on to your American French Bull Terrier. It's a good idea that you know them. Brachycephalic airway syndrome is the most common problem in French Bulldogs. Due to their flat face and short head, this problem can lead to breathing difficulties. This can manifest as snoring or retching and retching. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed to correct the condition. Hip dysplasia can be found in Pitbulls as well as Frenchies. It is treatable with exercise and healthy eating habits. Collapsed trachea is quite common in French Bulldogs. This is due to their flat face and short muzzle. You can avoid this by controlling your weight or taking medication. Other minor issues include allergies, cherry eyes, heat stress, cataracts, and other issues. They often become exhausted trying to reach the females. Artificial insemination is used to ensure that females can reproduce. These dogs are costly but have the advantage of strict health checks and more control over breeding lines. Females are unable to give birth naturally due to their unique proportions. To have puppies, most females will need to undergo a cesarean section. This increases the cost of these dogs. This Pitbull weighs 79 kg, while the average Pitbull only weighs around 27 kg. Although the French Bulldog is the smallest bulldog breed, there are other varieties like the Micro French Bulldog or the Teacup Bulldog. These tiny French Bulldogs can weigh as little as kg, while the average French Bulldog weighs around 11 kilograms. The AKC does not recognize them because they are extremely rare. These dogs are not ethically possible to breed, as Frenchies can be difficult to breed. The generalization of this term has fueled the fire of the misrepresentation of the race. It can be used as an umbrella term for many breeds. Leave a comment. However, we do know they came about when designer dogs gained traction in the 80s when dog owners wanted the best of two breeds. Despite their name, French Bulldogs originated in England, where they were produced as toy versions of the bulky English Bulldog. These mini dogs were popular among English lace workers, who carried them when they immigrated to France for better opportunities. They were bred with other breeds like Terriers and Pugs and got the bat ears along the way. Pitbulls have a much more violent history in dog fighting because of their agility, size, and courage. They originated from the old English Bulldog, which was eventually bred with Terriers to increase speed and agility for fights. The term Pitbull actually refers to a type of dog that includes a number of different breeds, like the American Pitbull Terrier and American Bully. The prolific use of the American Pitbull Terrier in dogfighting and among gangs has given this breed a bad reputation. Once the image of the All-American dog, the Pittie was dealt all the wrong cards. French Pitbulls are muscular with a stocky build and are impressively strong for their often tiny size. They have a short, single-layer coat, but their length can increase if a fluffy Frenchie is used for breeding. They will remind you of a Frenchie, probably due to the ears. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. General Care of a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix Hypoallergenic: Not hypoallergenic due to shed hair and pet dander Shedding: Low to moderate shedding everyday Exercise: 45 to 60 minutes of exercise every day Housing: Apartments Temperament: Sweet-natured, alert, playful, friendly, and gentle Trainability: Moderate trainability due to moderate intelligence Energy Frenchies have a reputation as designer lap dogs, but Pitbull genes give this mixed breed quite the energy kick. Exercise 45 to 60 minutes of daily physical exercise will keep off obesity, boredom, and anxiety-related issues. Keep the walks short and low-intensity for about 20 to 30 minutes each, with plenty of rest in between. Housing Frenchie Pitbulls are velcro dogs. They need to share your space and be as close to you as possible. They may adapt to small spaces, depending on how much they take after the French Bulldogs, which is ideal for apartments. Otherwise, they will do best with a yard. Supplements like Omega-3 and omega-6 acids improve immunity. The French Bulldog parents are prone to allergies from filler products, so try to look for the highest quality dog food possible. Vets advise on the best diet for dogs with chronic health conditions. Grooming Grooming a Frenchie Pitbull is easy because their single-layered, smooth coats barely shed. Gently brush their coat about twice a week with a grooming glove and bathe them every four weeks for coat health. Only used a gentle oatmeal and aloe shampoo as these dogs have sensitive skin. Shedding increases if a fluffy Frenchie parent is used for breeding. Give them a French ie manicure and pedicure every month to prevent broken and ingrown nails. As brachycephalic breeds, these mixed dogs are particularly prone to dental issues due to teeth overcrowding, so use a dog-safe mouth rinse in their water. To combat the issue, brush their teeth at least twice a week. Ear cleaning with dog ear wipes keeps those bat ears in shape. As we see in Frenchies and other dogs like Merle Pitbulls , breeding for exaggerated features or colors increases potential medical issues. Due to their shortened muzzle , French Pitbulls are especially prone to breathing difficulties like brachycephalic airway syndrome. They are typically small dogs bearing the same powerful and muscular build as their parent breeds. If you choose to have one as a pet, you can expect a pleasant dog with a playful side. With the combined characteristics of the legendary Pitbull and sweet Frenchie, an American French Bull Terrier is the perfect companion dog for those who want to jump on the designer dog trend. However, we can assume that many breeders experimented with mixing these breeds after French Bulldogs and Pitbulls became popular in the United States. French Bulldogs were originally found in England and produced as toy versions of the English Bulldog. The breed later thrived in France and was owned by people of all levels in society. Similarly, Pitbulls were first bred in England. However, these dogs have an unpleasant history. Instead of being companion dogs, they were mainly used in dogfighting and bull baiting. They were also brought to the country through British immigrants during the s. With this information, we can hypothesize that French Pitbulls were first bred after people became hyped with French Bulldogs and Pitbulls and when dogfighting was finally outlawed. The same can be said for Pitbulls, the lovable and playful giants. Combining the genes of these dogs, you can expect a small to medium-sized dog with a muscular and stocky build. French Pitbulls have distinguishable features such as their pointed bat ears, large square-like head, and short muzzle. Those with stronger Pitbull features have longer snouts which are more preferable. A French Bulldog Pitbull mix also has well-defined cheekbones and wide-set eyes that can be blue, black, or brown. The nose is wide and usually a dark color like black or brown. Their chest is wide and the jaws are strong while the legs are short but powerful. The coat is fairly short and easy to groom. Most American French Bull Terriers come in white, fawn, and cream in color. However, due to their Pitbull genes, they can come in other color combinations and patterns. As mentioned, the French Bulldog Pitbull mix is a small to medium-sized pup. When fully grown, male French Pitbulls can weigh around 30 to 40 pounds while females can weigh 30 to 37 pounds. In terms of height, males are generally taller with 15 to 19 inches, while females are expectedly shorter with 14 to 16 inches. However, some French Pitbulls are reported to be only around 28 pounds and grow only between 11 to 13 inches tall. Nevertheless, their size is very suitable for small apartments and for people who want a cute lap dog. Another common curiosity about the Pitbull French Bulldog mix is their temperament. Since both French Bulldogs and Pitbulls have a reputation for being aggressive breeds, many people want to find out if this crossbreed behaves similarly. Due to their loving nature, they usually make their owners the center of their attention. These mixed breeds are also very playful because of their Pitbull heritage. Paired with their high energy, their playfulness can get quite chaotic. However, with early training, both their active disposition and high prey drive can be toned down to avoid any destruction in the house. A French Pitbull is also a great family dog since it can easily get along with people, especially children. These dogs may be small but they are stronger than your little ones. For future owners, early socialization is a must for these dogs. Not only will this help them be less wary of people but also teach them to be at ease with having other animals in the house. A French Bulldog Pitbull mix can live for around 12 to 14 years. However, you need to watch out for potential health problems that these dogs can suffer from. Because of their genetics, they can inherit conditions common to both their parent breeds: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Due to their short muzzles, a Pitbull French Bulldog mix can have breathing problems caused by brachycephalic airway syndrome. This refers to a set of upper airway complications including stenotic nares, extended nasopharyngeal turbinates, an elongated soft palate, laryngeal collapse, a hypoplastic trachea, and everted laryngeal saccules. Skin Diseases: Because of the wrinkly folds on their face skin, these dogs can develop skin conditions like eczema or allergic dermatitis, and bacterial infections. They can also develop tumors and even skin cancer. Eye Problems: Problems involving vision can also affect older French Pitbulls. Eye conditions such as cherry eye or prolapse of the third eyelid and cataracts are common to these dogs. The latter is caused by excessive buildup of protein in the body. Heart Disease: Another common health problem of this breed is heart disease including mitral valve disease which can cause heart murmurs and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM which is the thinning of the heart muscles. Both can lead to heart dysfunction when left undetected. As these dogs mature, their hip joints might not grow at the correct rate. This can cause pain, lameness, and difficulty in movement. In some cases, it can develop into osteoarthritis. With these health problems in mind, you can better choose a breeder that can ensure that the French Pitbull puppy you get is free of serious diseases and will not develop them as they get older. Here are some of the advantages of breeding an American French Bull Terrier: Unique appearance: A cross between a Pitbull and a French Bulldog can produce a dog breed with the combined features from both parents. Sometimes, the dog will inherit the traits of the more dominant gene but in many cases, it will have an interesting look that will make people look twice. Better temperament: Pitbulls are known for their high energy level and goofy personality. On the flip side, French Bulldogs are more reserved but equally affectionate. Because their temperaments compliment each other so well, you can expect an even-tempered companion dog. Lowered risk for congenital diseases: The risk for inheriting congenital diseases is higher for purebred dogs. This probability decreases with careful crossbreeding. Reputable breeders conduct genetic tests to know if the parent is a carrier of the gene for a specific condition. Before you decide if a French Pitbull is right for you, consider the following disadvantages of crossbreeding: Hard to predict size: The American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are normally larger than a Frenchie. Their cross will result in a slightly smaller version. High-risk deliveries: French Bulldogs are small breeds. Because of their narrow hips, it might be difficult for them to deliver puppies naturally. In many cases, a C-section needs to be performed for the safe delivery of the litter. High-cost of breeding: Designer breeds like the Pitbull French Bulldog mix tend to be more expensive than regular purebred dogs. Breeders often spend more on veterinary consultations and health screening for this breed. The cost of expenses is added to the final price of the puppy. Like purebreds and other mixes, owning a French Pitbull has its own benefits and drawbacks. Female Pitbull: Which Is Better? Dogs are lifelong friends whether they are purebred or mixed breed. As owners, they rely on you to provide food, care, and attention. If you want to know how you can properly take care of French Pitbull, follow the guidelines discussed in this section. Feeding and Diet A French Bulldog Pitbull mix requires a combination of essential nutrients like protein, fat, carbohydrates, and minerals in their diet. Make sure to check the ingredients to know if your pup will get these nutrients. Also, look for dog food that helps with eyesight, supports bone growth, and promotes skin health. As medium-sized dogs, French Pitbulls need to be fed at least two to three cups of food per day divided into different meals. Consult your vet for the proper calorie intake and food ratio needed by your dog. Cleaning and Grooming Like other dog breeds, your Pitbull French Bulldog mix needs to be cleaned and groomed regularly to look and feel great. Despite having short coats, French Pitbulls still shed throughout the year but will shed more during the spring and fall. You can remove loose hairs by brushing them using a bristle brush at least once a week. You can also use a deshedding tool during the mentioned seasons. To reduce even more hair inside the house, bathe your French Bulldog Pit Bull mix at least once a month. When giving them a bath, remember to wash in between their face folds to prevent skin infection. Because these dogs are prone to skin irritation, use a vet-approved shampoo for sensitive skin. Using dry shampoo is also acceptable. This should be done every two to three months. Weekly cleaning of the ears should also be performed to prevent infections and wax buildup. Lastly, brush your Pitbull French Bulldog mix at least three to four times a week and provide dental chews for optimal oral health. Training and Exercise A French Pitbull is quite an intelligent breed so you will have no trouble training them. As you may know, a puppy is easier to train than an adult dog so you should train them early. Start with basic commands and slowly start teaching them other tricks. Since one of their Pitbull ancestors was once used as a farm dog, they are very much willing to please their owners. They may display stubbornness but this can easily be managed by an assertive and patient trainer. As for exercise requirements, your French Bulldog Pit Bull mix needs around 30 to 60 minutes of walking and playtime each day. If you are still dealing with a puppy, you may want to reduce the time to 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how young they are. Aside from a normal game of fetch, you can teach your dog to play agility sports such as frisbee to promote an even healthier lifestyle. Most breeders charge higher for this designer dog because of their selective breeding process. If you find a cheap offer for a French Bulldog Pitbull mix, then it might not have purebred parents. You also need to prepare your budget for dog supplies and items that your French Pittie will need as it grows up and start a new life: Type of Expense. Lifespan Sociability The American French Bull Terrier not to be confused with the French Bull Terrier is not aggressive, is great with kids, and is an ideal dog for a first-time dog owner. These dogs are eager to please and love nothing more than engaging in activities with their owners, including lazing on the sofa. If you are on the lookout for an active dog that can be left outside for long periods, this breed is not for you. These dogs thrive on human contact and will mostly be content by your side. These dogs are relatively easy to train, provided that the training is gentle and entertaining, and will swiftly learn basic commands. They may look somewhat intimidating from the outside but are actually sensitive animals that love to be in your good books. They may have a stubborn streak due to their French Bulldog heritage, which can be a hurdle in training, but early socialization and good training will usually prevent this. American French Bull Terriers are intelligent pooches that have a keen sense of hearing and are more alert than many other breeds. This makes them ideal watchdogs, and they are loyal to a fault—they will lay down their lives to protect their owners. French Bulldogs have trouble reproducing Due to their small size and unusual proportions, French Bulldog males have a hard time reaching the females and will often exhaust themselves in the attempt. Most females are thus artificially inseminated in order to reproduce. This makes these dogs extremely expensive, but the process has the benefit of stringent health checks and thus, more control of breeding lines. Most females will have to undergo a Caesarian section to have their puppies, driving the price of these dogs up even further. The dog weighs in at an incredible pounds, with the average Pitbull only weighing around 60 pounds. While most French Bulldogs weigh around 25 pounds, these tiny versions can get as small as 5—8 pounds! They are exceedingly rare, though, and are not recognized by the AKC. There are some doubts about whether these dogs can be ethically raised, as Frenchies are already difficult to breed. This generalization of the term has added fuel to the fire of the mischaracterization of the breed, as it can be used as a blanket term for several different breeds. They are social dogs that love to be around people, both running and playing outdoors and chilling indoors on the sofa. They are protective, though, and their keen senses make them alert and aware and thus, excellent watchdogs. They are usually small yet courageous and cute yet assertive and can get highly attached to their owners. Both the parent breeds are independent in character, so you can expect stubbornness from time to time. Loyalty and a strong desire to protect and be around their owners are hallmarks of this breed, so while their small size may not make them as tough guard dogs as their Pitbull heritage, you can be sure that they will do everything in their power to protect their owners. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are generally gentle with children and keen for hours of fetch in the backyard. These dogs become highly attached to their owners and do not enjoy being alone for extended periods. If you are away from home frequently, they may not be the best choice of breed. They are wary of strangers and may be aloof when they come into contact with new faces. They are not typically aggressive, but dogs of the same sex may be an issue if they are not spayed or neutered. The Pitbull has a strong prey drive, which may pose a problem for cats and other small pets, but good training and socialization will usually mitigate this problem. For instance, if your French Pitbull weighs 35lbs, it will typically require calories per day. You will need to split the total daily calories needed per day by your pup into different meals throughout the day—usually, 2 or 3 cups per day of or calories each. Other Nutrition Health Related Tips To avoid combat allergies and coat problems in French Pitbulls, add a couple of fish oil squirts to their meals. This oil will provide relief and nourishment to keep their skin and coats in top condition. Eye health is essential in this breed. Daily eye care bites like Zesty Paws Eye Supplement and dog eye drops for long-lasting corneal protection and hydration can promote good eye health on your four-legged buddy. This will also ensure your dog is burned out by nightfall and can sleep soundly. Practicing agility dog sports such as frisbee can be is another good way to promote a healthy lifestyle in your pet while having fun. If your French Pitbull is acting out and displaying destructive behavior, he may be bored or have pent-up energy that needs to be burnt out. Increase exercise time and see if this helps. Even ten minutes of playing fetch in the yard each morning can make a huge difference. Just like any dog, they need mental stimulation. Toys and activities that challenge their intellect work well. Yes, French Pitbulls can make fantastic family dogs. As with any breed, consistent training and basic obedience lessons are needed early. They are great with children. Your kids will have no problem bonding and having fun with this dog. One of the challenges of owning a French Bulldog and Pitbull Mix is that they require plenty of exercises, or they could quickly become bored, leading to unwanted behavior. Remember, both mixed breed parents are medium to high energy dogs. For the most part, the French Bulldog Pit Bull Mix is a lively and good nature dog, but there are things to consider before bringing one into your home. They are somehow easy to train. French Pitbulls are people pleasers at heart and, therefore, relatively easy to train. However, training can be difficult for someone who is not a pack leader as these dogs can be stubborn. Start training as early as possible, and you may be surprised at how much they learn. But what does this mean for your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix? French Pitbulls love to be active and play, so try to structure your training as a game. Positive reinforcement training and consistency are also crucial in training these dogs. Early on, establishing yourself as the pack leader will simplify the training process and avoid any conflict with stubborn behavior. Here is an excellent training resource if you need help training your French Pitbull. Brushing Frequency Although they have a short coat, French Pitbulls are moderate shedders. You can help to keep the coat looking clean free of dead hair and tidy by brushing it with a bristle brush at least once a week. Deshedding Frequency In spring and fall, French Pitbulls will shed more than normal twice a year. During these times, use a de-shedding brush to help the process along while keeping your house hair-free. Bathing your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix once a month is probably plenty, but you can give them another bath if they start to smell. Be sure to wash in between their face folds to prevent infection. They are prone to skin irritation, and frequent baths could damage their coat and trigger skin allergies. Look for a shampoo that is suitable for sensitive dog skin. If your dog is afraid of water or needs a quick bath, waterless dog shampoo is a great alternative to bathing. Take your French Pitbull to the groomer for a haircut, nail clip, and ear clean. You can also do this at home! Clean their ears weekly to prevent infection, excess moisture, or wax build-up. Adding a dog dental treat will also help keep their pearly whites in good health. We love using our dental kit from Bark Bright. Stick to these tips, and your pup should avoid any hygiene-related problems! Based on our research French Pitbulls are average intelligence dogs. While dog breeds in the pit bull category i. They have inherited the brains of one fair, intelligent dog and the other from an above-average intelligent dog. Intelligence can vary by individual dogs and can be influenced by training. Can you beed a French Bulldog with a Pitbull? In short, yes. If you want to breed a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix, you will need to use artificial insemination as the size difference between these breeds makes natural breeding unsafe and dangerous. The breeding procedure requires that the female is always the Pit Bull and the male the French Bulldog for apparent reasons. You can add more specimens from males dogs after 48 hours of insemination. Tip: Be sure to insert the sperm of the male dog immediately. If you are not going to use it, keep it in a chilled or frozen environment. When getting a French Pitbull, you have two options: breeders or adopting. While it might be hard to find a reliable place French Pitbull breeder, we show you some of the best places to find French Bulldog Pitbull Mix puppies for sale and what to look for before getting one. You should avoid breeders who are unwilling to disclose any medical records, refuse to accept credit card payments, use stock photos, and seem uncooperative. Try meeting the French Bulldog Pitbull Mix in person before buying. The first place you want to look is your local breeder in your city-state. You can also find French Bulldog Pitbull mix puppies for sale online or social media. Here are three breeders that can jumpstart your search: Lancaster Puppies French Pitbull Adoption Adoption is another worthy option when looking for French Bulldog Pitbulls. You never know. Rescue groups that specifically help Pit Bulls, French Bulldogs, and mixes of those breeds may be able to guide you to a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix for adoption. Sites like www. Here is a visual list of some of the different hues you can expect in this hybrid dog breed. French Pitbull Black. Cons: The appearance of a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary widely, as they may have physical characteristics from either parent breed. It is important to remember that mixed-breed dogs can exhibit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, and it is impossible to predict with certainty the characteristics a mixed-breed puppy will have. French Bulldog Pitbull Mix History and Origin The history of the French Bulldog Pit bull Mix needs to be better documented, as this is a relatively new mixed breed that has not been around for very long. The French Bulldog is a small breed originally developed in France in the 19th century as a companion breed. They were created by breeding small Bulldogs with local terrier breeds to create a smaller, more compact version of the Bulldog better suited to life in the city. French Bulldogs were popular with the wealthy and were often kept as lap dogs. Pitbulls, on the other hand, were originally bred for fighting in the United Kingdom. They were developed by crossing Bulldogs with local terrier breeds to create a dog that was strong and athletic. Pitbulls were brought to the United States in the late 19th century and used in dog fighting and as working dogs on farms. The French Bulldog Pitbull Mix was likely created by breeding a French Bulldog with a Pitbull to create a small, muscular, and athletic mixed breed. However, it is important to note that the Pitbull has a controversial history due to its use in dog fighting. Therefore, it is important for potential owners of a Pitbull French Bulldog Mix to be aware of this history and to ensure that they are responsible and humane owners. French Bulldog Pit bull Mixes may be small to medium in size and have a muscular, athletic build. Typically, hybrid dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. They may have a smooth, short coat in various colors, such as brindle, fawn, white, or black. They may have a wide chest, strong legs, and a square or rectangular head with a short, broad muzzle. They may also have floppy ears and a tail that is either docked or left natural. It is difficult to predict the exact size and weight of a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix, as they can inherit different physical characteristics from their parent breeds. French Bulldogs are small dogs that typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds and stand about 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Pitbulls are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 30 and 85 pounds and stand about 18 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder. A French Bulldog Mixed Pitbull may be anywhere in this size range, depending on which traits they inherit from their parents. French Bulldogs are known for being playful, affectionate, and loyal dogs that make good companions. They are generally easygoing and get along well with people of all ages, including children. They can be stubborn at times and may be difficult to train, but they are generally eager to please their owners. Pitbulls are also known for being loyal and affectionate dogs that make good companions. In addition, they are energetic and athletic and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Pitbulls can be strong-willed and difficult to train, but they are generally intelligent and eager to learn. It is always a good idea to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your home to ensure they are a good fit for your family and lifestyle. French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes, like all mixed-breed dogs, can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, and it is not possible to predict with certainty the characteristics a mixed-breed puppy will have. That being said, French Bulldogs and Pitbulls are generally affectionate and loyal breeds that make good companions. French Bulldogs are known for being playful and easygoing, and they generally get along well with people of all ages, including children. Pitbulls are also known for being loyal and affectionate and generally good with children. It is important to remember that every dog is different, and it is always a good idea to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your home to ensure that they are a good fit for your family and lifestyle. Be aware of these potential health risks and work with a veterinarian to ensure your dog stays healthy and happy. Some common health issues that may affect French Bulldog Pit bull Mixes include: Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and lameness. Allergies: Both the French Bulldog and French Pitbull puppy may be prone to allergies, which can cause symptoms such as itchy skin, red eyes, and sneezing. Respiratory issues: French Bulldogs are prone to respiratory issues due to their short, compact faces, which may also be a concern for French Bulldog Pit bull Mixes. Eye problems: French Bulldogs and Pitbulls may be prone to certain eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Skin problems: French Bulldogs and Pitbulls may be prone to certain skin problems, such as dermatitis and hot spots. Working with a veterinarian to identify and address any health issues that may affect your French Pitbull mix with a French Bulldog is important. In addition, regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can help your dog stay healthy and happy. The lifespan of a Pitbull mixed with a French Bulldog can vary widely, as they may inherit different traits from their parent breeds. French Bulldogs typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, while Pitbulls typically have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. A Pitbull mixed with a French Bulldog may live anywhere in this lifespan, depending on which traits they inherit from their parents. Therefore, it is important to provide your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix with proper care, including a healthy diet , regular exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups, to help them live a long and healthy life. Therefore, it is important to feed your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix a high-quality, balanced diet that meets its nutritional needs. Look for a food formulated for their life stage puppy, adult, or senior and made with high-quality protein sources, such as meat or fish. A French Bulldog Pitbull Mix may have a high metabolism and require more calories than a smaller or less active dog. Overweight dogs are at risk for health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Fish oil supplements, for example, can help support healthy skin and coats. Avoid feeding Avoid feeding your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix a diet high in fat, as this can contribute to obesity and other health issues. It is important to work with a veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix and to create a feeding plan that is tailored to their individual needs. Cleaning, Grooming, and Shedding French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes may require regular grooming to maintain their health and appearance. A slicker brush or a comb with fine teeth is typically a good choice for a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix. Bathe your dog Bathe your dog as needed using a high-quality dog shampoo. French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes typically do not require frequent bathing, which can strip their skin of natural oils. A toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs is typically a good choice. French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes may shed French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes may shed, but the amount of shedding can vary depending on the individual dog and its coat type. Some French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes may shed more than others, and regular brushing can help control shedding. It is important to work with a veterinarian or a professional groomer to determine the specific grooming needs of your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix and to create a grooming plan that is tailored to their individual needs. Therefore, it is important to provide your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix with plenty of opportunities for physical activity and mental stimulation to help keep them happy and healthy. Here are some general guidelines for exercising a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. This can include activities such as walks, runs, or play sessions. French Bulldog Pitbull Mixes are energetic and athletic so they may require more exercise than some other dog breeds. Try different activities, such as hiking, swimming, or playing fetch. Make sure to provide your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix with plenty of opportunities for mental stimulation. This can include interactive toys, puzzle toys, or training sessions. Always provide your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix with plenty of fresh water, especially during exercise. It is important to note that every dog is different and has unique exercise needs. Therefore, it is a good idea to work with a veterinarian or a professional trainer to determine the specific exercise needs of your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix and to create an exercise plan that is tailored to their individual needs. Training Training is important for the well-being of any dog, including French Bulldog and Pitbull Mixes. Training can help your dog learn important skills, such as obedience commands, socialization, and good manners, and can also help strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Here are some general tips for training a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix: Start training as early as possible. Puppies learn quickly and are more receptive to training than adult dogs, so it is a good idea to start training your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix as soon as you bring them home. Use positive reinforcement. Training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for your dog. Use treats , praise, and other rewards to reinforce good behavior and encourage your dog to learn. Be patient and consistent. Training can take time and require patience, especially if your French Bulldog Mix Pitbull is resistant to training. It is important to be consistent with your training techniques and to set clear boundaries and rules for your dog. Use a variety of training methods. Different dogs respond to different types of training, so it is a good idea to use various methods, such as obedience training, agility training, and socialization. Work with a professional trainer. If you have difficulty training your French Bulldog Mix Pitbull, consider working with a professional trainer or a veterinarian for guidance and support. It is important to remember that every dog is different and has unique training needs. Therefore, it is a good idea to work with a veterinarian or a professional trainer to determine the specific training needs of your French Bulldog Pitbull Mix and to create a training plan that is tailored to their individual needs. It is important to remember that the initial cost of a puppy is just one part of the overall expenses associated with owning a dog. Other expenses to consider include the following: Veterinary care includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and necessary treatments or procedures. Supplies: This includes items such as a collar, leash, crate , bed, and toys. Grooming: Regular grooming, such as bathing, brushing, and nail trimming, can also be an ongoing expense. It is important to consider all of these costs when budgeting for a French Bulldog Pitbull Mix puppy and to be prepared for the financial responsibilities of dog ownership.

Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Then you're in the right place! Because you can find loads of great German Shepherd pictures, of both puppies and adult dogs, all throughout this website. And the purpose of this page is even more specific. What do I mean? Well, because this page allows you, as a German Shepherd owner, to not only look at other adorable German Shepherd puppy pics, but also the chance to upload your own pictures of your own German Shepherd puppy and the ability to tell us all about your own little furry friend. Come on guys, now is your time to brag a little even about your own German Shepherd puppy. It's okay - we all do it. And we all understand how "our German Shepherd" is the best one on the planet. And now is the perfect time to let us all in on your own special secret. Plus you get the chance to have a whole web page dedicated to nothing but your very own German Shepherd puppy. And what German Shepherd owner wouldn't love that opportunity? So if you have a German Shepherd mix puppy or dog, we would love to hear about them too. Just use this page instead to tell us about your German Shepherd mix puppy or dog. So here's what you need to do next and it's pretty simple : Just fill out the form below, add your own German Shepherd puppy pictures, and click the Submit button when you're through. A new web page all about your German Shepherd puppy for the whole world to see. Be sure and tell your family and friends to come and visit. Plus they can leave comments too! Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project!

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. 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. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Calories need kcal per day It is important that puppies replace the calories they are using. Three-month-old puppies should be fed between and kcal a day. Feeding amounts 1. Feeding correct amounts will help keep them on a good schedule and encourage good eating habits. On average, a 3-month-old puppy will need between 1. You can also check your food label for feeding guidelines. Feeding frequency 3 times a day A 3-month-old GSD puppy should get fed three times a day. Providing them with portions multiple times a day helps to maintain good digestion. Establishing a good schedule around eating a few times a day is excellent and can help with training. Create a plan that you can be consistent in doing. Mealtime length 15 minutes max. Food should not be left out all the time, even if they did not eat it. Removing the food after its being left out for 15 minutes. This will help to limit them from becoming picky eaters or not finishing their meals when they can. It will also encourage your pup to eat multiple times a day when it is available. It is a necessary time to make sure they are getting proper nutrition. Feeding them well at three months will help them grow strong muscles and healthy teeth. They will also have healthy skin and a shiny coat. Protein is an essential nutrient that has many benefits for growing puppies! It gives them optimum muscle development and can help to repair muscle tissues. It helps to promote a healthy coat and skin as well. Fats also play a role in your dog having healthy skin and coat. Fat will also help your puppy to absorb other vitamins and minerals. Excessive fat can cause digestion upset, but in the right amount, it is a vital part of their diet. Carbohydrates There is no set amount of carbohydrates a puppy should have, but it needs to be in their diet. Carbohydrates are essential as they are an energy source. They are also a great source of dietary fiber for your dog. Other essential nutrients e. Meat is essential and should be the primary protein source, but fruits and vegetables are also necessary. Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus help to support bone health. Vitamins like Vitamin A help to support the immune system. How much should a 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy eat in a day? There are some factors to consider when determining how much to feed your GSD puppy. Activity, age, and health are all considerations that can impact how much you should feed your dog. Activity If a dog burns a lot of calories through activity, they need the calories to compensate for that. A puppy can be very active, and they need to replace that lost energy with calories. Age A 3-month-old puppy will need more calories per pound compared to an adult German Shepherd. This is why food for puppies will usually have more calories per cup. Puppies need more calories because of their activity level and how much they are growing. Although it may seem obvious, doing this can cause your dog a lot of trouble and is a simple error to make. A German shepherd is a medium- to large-breed dog, which puts him at a higher risk for several health issues, the most well-known of which are issues with the bones and the hips. Joint illnesses are more likely to develop in them as a result of genetics, and too much rapid development is another factor that might exacerbate these issues. Because of this, even though German shepherds require the same essential nutrients as other dog breeds, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals, you should exercise caution when feeding your dog nutrient-rich dog foods because they can encourage dangerously rapid growth. According to the German shepherd feeding chart, it is accepted that adult dogs need up to calories per day. Depending on how big and active the dog is, anything between and is considered suitable. The amount of calories a dog consumes is often determined by their age, present health, and the amount of exercise they receive. However, even in their later years, energetic dogs will need up to calories each day. How about a German Shepherd puppy, though? What is a German Shepherd feeding chart for a puppy? Actually, puppies consume twice as many calories per pound of body weight. This indicates that a German Shepherd puppy that is 8 weeks old may consume twice as much food as an adult. Puppies need to consume twice as much food as adults do to sustain their growth and development. A young German Shepherd puppy needs at least 80—90 calories per pound of body weight to grow and thrive. Regularly weigh your puppy, assess their general health, and modify their calorie intake to assist their growth. Even more active than working adult dogs are young shepherds. Keep in mind that calories differ significantly across manufacturers and brands. Always read the nutritional information and feeding instructions on the food box before feeding it to your pet. The German Shepherd feeding chart is simple in the first few weeks; up until the puppies lose all of their puppy teeth , their mother serves as their primary feeding source. Puppies who are one month old do not yet have teeth that are strong enough to eat kibble, so it is important to soften their diet as much as possible. Two-Month-Old German Shepherd Puppies start exploring their environment as soon as they reach the one-month mark. Additionally, a German Shepherd puppy should be at least eight weeks old if you plan to adopt one. Purchase the same puppy food the breeder recommended, at least for the first several weeks as they adjust to their new surroundings. As the pups approach their first birthday, their diet will require fewer calories, so you may cut down on the number of meals by two or three, if you believe it will be better for your pet. The majority of dog owners believe that giving their puppies fewer meals throughout the day is better for them since they get the same amount of calories and are less likely to feel hungry at specific times of the day. Even though during this period your dog should still be eating puppy food, you might want to consider obtaining adult dog food. Some owners use treats and training rewards to gradually introduce adult food to their pets, which is just enough to acclimate them to its unique flavor and texture. On the other hand, some dog owners choose to gradually phase out puppy food by combining kibble for adult dogs with it in varying quantities. You must obviously speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to the diet your German Shepherd consumes. Only your veterinarian can tell you when your dog has reached adulthood and when switching to adult food is safe. They must thus be provided with a healthy diet, even if they are raised as household pets. These puppies really like being active, and they enjoy playing in dog parks and other open spaces as well as training. In addition to the other nutrients, the quantities of calcium, protein, and phosphorus in adult dog food will be different from those in puppy food, according to the German Shepherd feeding chart. Bottom Line We must be certain of how much and when to feed our pets as responsible pet owners. German Shepherds require special consideration when designing their diets since they are active canines with voracious appetites. They adapt well to a variety of diets, including dry, wet, raw, and homemade. Giving them too many presents or too many free meals might seriously harm their health. We looked at the German shepherd feeding chart above. For your pup to develop properly, you must be aware of which foods are good for them and which ones they should avoid. As a travel enthusiast and animal lover, she hopes to inspire others to discover and cherish the beauty and importance of the natural world. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Tampa. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are great stress relievers for children. Imagine the effects on family life when the stress levels of parents go down. Children who have a dog feel more secure about home safety and going to sleep in the dark. One of the greatest stresses on children is night fears. To have this overcome, or lessened, is a great benefit to relieving stress. For children who are having any sort of difficulties at school, but especially thoughts and concerns over being liked or accepted, having a dog as a companion that loves you unconditionally is positive and brings with it a good feeling and alleviates symptoms of depression. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. What are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Brandon like? A Labrador Retriever is a devoted, outgoing, and friendly breed of dog that is known for its intelligence and obedience. It is often considered an ideal pet companion for families and individuals alike, and its strong desire to please often makes it suitable for service and therapy work. Labradors have a thick, short, water-repellent double coat in black, yellow, and chocolate. An active breed, they have strong retrieving instincts and require; regular exercise, positive reinforcement and obedience training to remain healthy and happy. Will Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Brandon cause me to have allergies? Labrador Retrievers are generally considered to be hypoallergenic dogs, meaning they are not known to cause allergies in people. However, this doesn't guarantee that Labradors will be hypoallergenic for everyone since some people are more sensitive to pet dander than others. Nevertheless, some people find they can be around Labradors without experiencing an allergic reaction. It's best to be aware of any pre-existing allergies and do some research on the breed before making a final decision. What should I not feed Brandon Labrador Retriever puppies for sale? Generally, Labrador Retrievers should not be fed raw potatoes, onions, or garlic as these can cause digestive issues. Chocolate should also be avoided as it is a toxic risk. Chocolate contains Theobromine, which can be dangerous if ingested, resulting in health problems that could be fatal. Additionally, grapes can cause kidney failure in this breed, and should be avoided. Furthermore, Labrador Retrievers should be protected from foods with high amounts of fat, as this can cause rapid weight gain and an increased risk of pancreatitis. How can I become the best puppy parent for Labrador Retriever puppies in Brandon? Being the best puppy parent for your Labrador Retriever requires a commitment to provide the very best environment for your pet. Start by ensuring the pup is receiving the proper amount of nutrition, exercise and regular vet checkups. Socializing your pup at an early age with other people, other pets and different environments is also key to developing its confidence and temperament. Additionally, demonstrating positive reinforcement when it performs well and engaging in regular activities such as long walks and interactive playtime will all help your Labrador Retriever blossom into a healthy, happy and obedient dog. Are Labrador Retrievers for sale in Brandon considered big dogs? Labrador Retrievers are often described as a 'big breed' due to their sizable stature and large body frame in comparison to other breeds. Generally, a full-grown adult Labrador Retriever can stand up to .This puts the overall size of a mature Labrador Retriever considerably above the median size for a full-grown adult dog, and therefore in the 'big breed' category when compared with most other breeds. Are Labrador Retriever puppies near Brandon active dogs? Labrador Retrievers are extremely active dogs that need regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They have boundless energy and love to play and run all day; they need miles of running and a few other exercises to maintain their cheerful personality. Labradors are the perfect family dog due to their friendly, outgoing personalities and love for people, but they require exercise and mental stimulation to stay content. It's best to give them as much exercise as possible; walks, hikes, agility training, and trips to the beach or park can be incredibly beneficial for them. Do Labrador Retrievers in Brandon get along with kids? Labrador Retrievers are renowned for their excellent family-friendly nature. As such, they generally get along very well with children. Labs are an extremely intelligent and loyal breed with a high capacity for understanding this translates to a potent bond that they form with their human family, adults and children alike. Labrador Retrievers require consistent training in order to remain obedient and happy. However, with the proper attention and care, they make great companions for the entire family. Labs have a gentle and friendly temperament and usually enjoy playing with children. How many minutes per day do I need to train Brandon Labrador Retrievers for sale? The amount of training that a Labrador Retriever needs per day is generally determined by the individual needs of the specific dog. Generally speaking, most Labrador Retrievers require between 30 and 45 minutes of mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis to be properly trained. This can involve activities such as long walks, play with toys, chasing a ball, and training exercises with rewards. It is always advisable to consult your veterinarian or a professional canine trainer to make sure your Labrador Retriever is getting the proper amount of exercise and training for its individual needs.

If you are concerned that your dog falls into this category or are concerned about what this means for them, this is the post for you. Here you can learn everything you need to know about this issue. What is Overweight for a German Shepherd? According to the AKC, the average German Shepherd male is 24 — 26 inches tall and weighs between 65 and 90lbs. Female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh around 50 to 70lbs. If your dog is well over this weight, it may be considered overweight. There is one factor to take into consideration here. Some dogs may be smaller or larger than standard and their weight will need to be calculated accordingly. In general, most vets will say that a German Shepherd is overweight if they are 15 percent over their ideal weight. The first thing you should do is to look at your dog from above. With the traditional healthy German Shepherd physique, the chest should be wider than the waist. This means that after the chest, the waist should dip in. You can also crouch down to the same level as your dog. Look at their stomach. In a healthy German Shepherd, the chest juts out, with the stomach dipping inwards. If you notice a layer of fat, however, this is a sign that your pup is heavier than necessary. German Shepherds are an active breed and often run , jump, and play for a long time before tiring out. If you notice that your pup is beginning to pant after just a few minutes or is ready to lie down shortly after starting to play, this could be an indication that they are too heavy. One of the main reasons that your German Shepherd could be gaining weight is due to overfeeding. If you are giving your dog home-cooked meals, you may not be calculating how many calories it all adds up to. It is also possible that you are feeding your dog too many times a day. Overfeeding also occurs when your dog is given various high-calorie treats throughout the day. Feeding your pup table scraps can also cause them to gain weight. Do They Have a Poor Diet? As you may know, not all dog foods are equally good. There are plenty of poorly prepared commercial dog foods on the market. These contain fillers contain a high amount of carbohydrates. The quality of the food sources may also be quite poor. All this can add up to additional calories. Even if you are following the proper guidelines you may be accidentally giving your pup more carbohydrates than they need. This may cause them to become overweight with time. On average, these pups can need between one to two hours of exercise daily. This allows them to burn off any excess calories. This is more likely to happen if their diet is high in calories as well. There are some health conditions such as hypothyroidism. There could be a health issue if your dog has a healthy diet, is getting enough exercise, and still gains weight. You should also be concerned by rapid weight gain or if your pup begins to pack on the pounds out of the blue. Are They Getting Older? As your pup gets older, they become slower. They may also develop various physical handicaps that can limit their movement. This is a rare occurrence, but some dogs gain weight more readily than others. Such pups may need lower calorie food or more exercise to compensate for this issue. Your vet may be able to come up with the best feeding and exercise regimen for such a dog. There is something undeniably cute about a chubby German Shepherd. As such, you may be wondering if your pup even needs to lose weight. Although your dog may look adorable, excess weight can lead to a whole host of health issues if left untreated for too long. Carrying around too much weight can prevent them from engaging in fun activities , spending time with their family, and feeling comfortable. In short, this state can compromise their quality of life. There are several tactics you can try out to help your German Shepherd lose weight. It is best to get the advice of a vet first, however. Do some research on the best dog food brands. Your vet may be able to help with this search. Your focus should be on high-quality food sources for protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The protein content should be the highest, with fat content being lower, and carbs being the lowest of all. Some brands cater to German Shepherds specifically. These may provide you with an easy way to provide your pup with the proper nutrients while managing their weight at the same time. Once you have found the right dog food, you should calculate their daily caloric intake based on their age and activity level: An adult German Shepherd with an active lifestyle needs around calories each day. A working dog can need as much as calories per day. A less active and senior dog requires between and calories per day. You should bear in mind that each type of dog food has a particular calorie content per serving. Always follow the serving instructions provided by the individual manufacturer. Also, be aware that the serving suggestion is typically for the whole day. As such, you will need to divide that number by how many meals you feed your dog throughout the day. Make it a point to only give your dog this amount at every meal. Until your German Shepherd loses the appropriate amount of weight, avoid giving them treats. Even after reaching the appropriate weight goal, keep treats to a minimum. You should take a closer look at the treats you give your dog to determine how healthy they are. Keep an eye on how many calories they contain as well. Look for high-quality treats that contain almost only protein and very little fat. Steer clear of any additives, fillers, and other unhealthy ingredients. It is also an unnecessary source of calories. When exercising your overweight German Shepherd, it is important to start slow. Not only will your dog dislike the idea, but there may be a higher risk of injury if your pup is pushed too far. Instead, try by taking them out for a minute walk two or three times a day. Let your dog choose their pace — the important thing is that they are getting enough exercise. As your dog gets used to this physical activity and begins to lose weight, you can speed things up or make the walks longer. When you feel like your German Shepherd is ready, start playing Frisbee and fetch — you can find interesting ways to keep them active. This is a practice that should be continued even when your dog has reached their ideal weight to maintain a healthy weight. If your dog is old or has joint issues, you may want to consider exercising them in the water. As many dogs love water, this may be a more fun way for them to get in shape as well. If your German Shepherd is overweight, this is something that needs to be tackled immediately. Through diet and exercise, you should be able to get your dog back to a healthy shape fairly quickly, improving its quality of life in the long run. 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. This will vary depending on their age, size, life stage, and activity levels. A good quality diet with high-quality protein, fats, fiber, and carbohydrates is required. Avoid highly processed treats as these may be very high in calories. Instead, consider using lean protein or fresh vegetables for snacks or training treats. If your German Shepherd is overweight and you need to reduce its calorie intake, then do so gradually. If you want your dog to start exercising more, you will need to increase their fitness gradually to help avoid illness or injury. Little and often is key! Try mixing up activities such as walking, swimming, running, playing games such as retrieving a toy, tug of war or hide and seek, agility and training. Why not try something new with your dog? Ensuring your dog has access to a well, balanced nutritionally complete diet to suit each life stage is important. Introducing regular exercise to a puppy is important. Try to keep exercise roughly similar each day to build up healthy habits. An adult German Shepherd can require hours of exercise per day — they are active dogs that require an active lifestyle. Changes to their diet and activity levels will be needed with each life stage to keep them on track. A body condition score above 3 out of 5 is considered overweight or obese for a German Shepherd. How can I help my German Shepherd lose weight? Slow and steady weight loss is key! A well-balanced, nutritionally complete diet is important to ensure that your German Shepherd gets all the nutrients they need. Consulting with a nutritionist or veterinarian can help you determine the calorie requirements for your dog. What is the ideal weight for a German Shepherd? Average weight for German Shepherds is 60 to 88 pounds for males and 49 to 75 pounds for females. What is considered overweight for a female German Shepherd? Again, it is difficult to assign a value for weight as every dog is different. Female dogs may be more prone to weight gain as they age and activity levels decrease, or with hormone changes such as after neutering. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Jul 21, Share Many people overfeed their German Shepherds, causing the dog to be overweight. Sometimes, the weight gain is obvious, whereas other times the dog may simply look healthy to the untrained eye. In either case, overweight German Shepherds experience a number of health conditions, like diabetes and arthritis. The rough guide to follow is males should be between 66 and 88 pounds and females should be between 49 and 71 pounds. To learn if your German Shepherd is overweight, keep reading. Veterinarians have created average healthy weight ranges for German Shepherd dogs. Most males will be between 66 and 88 pounds, whereas most females will be between 49 and 71 pounds. Unfortunately, this range only gives you a guide for how heavy your German Shepherd should be. As a result, two male German Shepherds may both be 88 pounds, but one of them could be considered healthy and the other could be considered overweight. The reason for this is that the amount of fat is more important than the direct weight. Because purebred German Shepherds have similar body types, it can be easy to eyeball if your German Shepherd has too much fat. Ideally, your vet should tell you that your dog is overweight at your regular checkup, but if your dog booms in weight in a short amount of time, you may need to perform an examination yourself. The first question you should ask yourself is if your German Shepherd shows any signs of being overweight. Because German Shepherds are so large, even a little bit of excess weight will cause symptoms elsewhere. Here are some signs that your German Shepherd is overweight : Difficulty breathing Pain while walking, running, etc. Unable to play as before Skin problems Arthritis Although these symptoms do not guarantee your dog has issues with weight, they can give you a good idea if your German Shepherd is suffering from some sort of illness, such as weight or obesity. You should be able to simply look at your German Shepherd to determine if it is overweight. If its waist appears larger than its back hock joints, your dog is likely overweight. The same is true if you look at your German Shepherd from the side and the abdomen appears to be even with the chest. In contrast, you might find that your German Shepherd appears lean and has a waist the same distance as the space between its back knees. One of the most accurate ways to determine if your German Shepherd is healthy is to feel its ribs. In contrast, if you can too easily feel the ribs, it means the German Shepherd is underweight. Visit A Vet If your at-home test shows your German Shepherd as being overweight, take your pet to the vet. Obesity will cause your fat German Shepherd to die quickly and experience more health issues along the way. So, you want to address the issue right on. German Shepherds are considered active dogs that need a lot of exercise. Ideally, German Shepherds need an hour and a half of exercise a day. Shoot for this goal and continue it once your dog reaches its ideal weight. Keep in mind that exercise can be fun for both you and the dog. Make sure not to force your German Shepherd to do too much at one time. Because overweight dogs are at more risk for heart issues and joint pain, overworking an overweight German Shepherd can result in a lot of pain for the dog. You need to make sure your German Shepherd is eating high-quality dog food and an appropriate amount of it. Many pet dogs are overweight because they are fed table scraps, processed food, and other foods that have no business going into their system. Select a high-quality dry dog food made specifically for large dogs. Final Thoughts Because German Shepherds are such active dogs , they are less prone to obesity than other breeds, but they can easily become obese if they are less active than they ought to be or are fed too many treats. Even though your German Shepherd may be hesitant to cut out the treats or exercise some more, be firm yet fun with your dog. In the long run, the German Shepherd will be much happier with its healthy weight. Featured Image Credit: tr, Pixabay Contents. According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd dog size standard is: Males: inches; pounds Females: inches; pounds So, how can you tell if your German shepherd is overweight? They weigh too much for their body size There are German shepherds that do weigh in higher than 90 pounds that are not overweight, they are simply oversized for the breed standard. But for the most part, your dog will fall into the standard set by the AKC. Loss of an abdominal tuck and waistline Your German shepherd should have a noticeable abdominal tuck. When looking down at their back, they should have an indentation at their waist. You should be able to feel the ribs without much pressure. Layer of fat over their ribs and possibly other places on their body Overweight dogs have lost their abdominal tuck and waist. The ribs are hidden under a layer of fat and are now hard to feel without pressure. There may be fat deposits above the tail and on the neck. These issues can be slight or extreme depending upon how overweight they are. This chart can help. Notice the abdominal tuck and note, column 5 is the ideal weight. Column 1 is very underweight. Column 9 is obese. Can no longer groom with ease German shepherds keep themselves well groomed. Your healthy German shepherd should be able to comfortably reach all their body parts and be able to keep them clean and groomed without much effort. They looks like a barrel German shepherds are athletic with graceful curves. If you notice your dog has lost their waistline, abdominal tuck, and is beginning to look like a barrel, they probably have put on a few extra pounds. If they begin to accumulate rolls anywhere on their body, they may have become obese. They begin to slow in their senior years but for most of their adulthood will require plenty of activity to keep them fit. If they begin to tire easily and also have other signs of being overweight, such as heavy breathing or struggling to keep up, they probably need to lose a few pounds. Lack of endurance could also be a signal they need to see the vet, who can also help guide you with a weight loss plan. If your dog is not as excited to do the things they love take a close look to check to see if they may have gained weight. So, what should you do if your dog looks a little pudgy? The first thing you should do is verify you are feeding the correct calories for their life stage and activity level. Determine how many calories your dog requires a day and feed accordingly, rather than the feeding chart on the food, which may not be accurate. Once you get the all clear, your vet can help guide you in a weight loss plan. If you do, they can develop serious medical conditions, including a life-threatening form of liver failure that can occur in less than 72 hours. There are some great weight loss foods on the market that can help your dog lose weight while continuing to get all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and be able to continue to do light exercise. These foods also generally help fill them up so they stay happy on their diet. We hope this helps you keep your German shepherd fit and healthy. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. Cutting back on treats. Take your dog for a walk before mealtime. If your dog is not eating after min, take the bowl away and allow her to skip the meal. Feeding your pet on a regular schedule, usually at least twice a day. Let your dog eat in a quiet corner without distraction. Make mealtime fun, such as letting her play with a food dispenser or rewarding your dog with food for doing a trick. You might even put a few pieces of food on the floor. But be careful GSD are can get bloat with an elevated eating position. Switch to a different kind of food, such as wet food if you normally feed your dog dry food. Why do dogs become overweight? On the other hand, being overweight can also lead their other health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, joint injuries or high blood pressure. So you also need to be aware of your dog is overweight. Although German Shepherds are active dogs, they still can become overweight for many reasons. The obvious ones are: Overeating: Too many calories, or the wrong type of calories Aging: As dogs age, they lose muscle mass over time, which leads to slower metabolism and weight gain. Osteoarthritis: This frequently causes hip pain. The more overweight your dog is, the greater the strain placed on their joints. Unfortunately, the pain caused by osteoarthritis makes it harder for your dog to exercise. Hip dysplasia: Your dog may experience pain when the hip is touched, which eventually deters them from moving around. Here are our top tips for how you can help your dog lose weight: Cut back on the snack or treats Choose high-quality dog foods Reduce processed carbs; replace them with healthy proteins and vegetables. They may have food recommendations for overweight dogs, and your vet can help ensure your dog is getting adequate nutrition. How do I know if my German Shepherd is healthy? Much like humans, preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best ways you can do to ensure your dog is in top shape. Health costs for a big dog like a German Shepherd are more expensive than their smaller dogs. Treatment for many conditions can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance or cost-sharing service is certainly a good investment to prevent you from breaking the bank, by covering the medical expenses in the worst-case scenario. Some plans are also available to cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, congenital conditions, and more. Conclusion Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. At the end of the day, keeping your GSD at a healthy weight will ensure a lifetime of health and joy for both of you. More on German Shepherd Health and Care. Obesity in dogs is often taken lightly by dog owners. Some health conditions that are often linked to or aggravated by obesity include: Arthritis: German Shepherds are already prone to arthritis and hip dysplasia as they age, so any extra body fat can exacerbate these conditions, if not bring them on at an earlier age. If your dog suffers from joint disease, carrying around extra weight can increase their daily pain. Heart and lung complications: Obesity in dogs is linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, and respiratory disorders. If left untreated, any of these conditions can result in serious complications for your furry friend. Anesthesia risks: Since obesity can put additional stress on the heart and lungs, these organs will have to work harder if your dog is ever anesthetized. Any respiratory complications during surgery can result in surgical complications, and can be fatal for your Shepherd. ACL injuries: The ACL is am important cruciate ligament within the knee that can be strained when put under a large amount of weight. Obesity over a long period can result in ACL injury, which is a major injury that is extremely painful and requires surgical repair. Stress on the body: Just like in humans, a large amount of fat distributed throughout the body can put a strain on several body processes. An overweight German Shepherd can experience heart problems, respiratory problems, joint and muscle injuries, and difficulty carrying out other normal organ functions. Obesity can also take up to 3 years of your pups life! Though all of the possible complications listed above should be enough incentive to keep your pup at a healthy weight, another factor to consider is their overall comfort. Excess weight can take a toll on your beloved Shepherd. Obesity can make each day challenging, it may be harder to get up in the morning, and it could lead to daily pain. Keeping them slim is not only important for their health, but also their happiness. Your dog should have somewhat of a waist. When standing above them and looking down on their back, you should see at least slight definition between the top half of their body and their waste. Their chest should be wider than their abdomen. Normal activities such as walking around the house, going up the stairs, or any other low key behavior should not cause your German Shepherd to become winded. If they are panting often or sleeping the day away, they may be having difficulties related to their weight. If your Shepherd is no longer interested in things they used to love, or does not readily participate in play like they did before, their lack of desire for play could be related to their weight. Also consider their weight gain if they become winded easily during play time. When it comes to obesity in your German Shepherd, there are a few common reasons behind their weight gain. When a dog is fed large meals or is offered free feeding, their weight can quickly begin to reflect their eating habits. Just as humans would reflect the choice to eat fast food for each meal, an unhealthy dog food can result in weight gain and an overall decline in health for your GSD. When it comes to the diet you choose for your dog, make sure to offer a quality food with nutritional ingredients, an acceptable calorie count, and a brand that is well known in the pet food industry. Of all the things to spend a bit of money on for your pup, their diet is one to splurge on. By giving them human food, you are offering them food that can be high in fat, lacks essential ingredients, and can quickly result in weight gain. Aside from the threat of weight gain is the possibility of gastrointestinal upset from feeding your dog table scraps. Lack of exercise: Just like in humans, a lower level of exercise to calories consumed can result in weight gain. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism refers to an under-active thyroid gland that can result in weight gain, hair loss, decreased energy, and more. Genetics: Some breeds are at a higher risk of obesity than others. Though weight loss is the goal, this process is not a race and should be approached with care. First, make sure you transition your German Shepherd to a quality food that promotes weight loss. Make sure you transition to any new diet over a two week period to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset. Since many dogs can contribute their weight gain to the amount of food they consume, your next step should involve assessing their food intake. Just as you took the food process slowly, you should take the introduction of exercise slowly too. Start with a short walk around your neighborhood, or even a 20 minute game of fetch if they like to play. Stick to that pace for a month, then work your way up to longer walks, outdoor adventures, and other more vigorous activities. Try your best to weigh and measure your dog once a month. When Should You See the Vet? Weight loss is actually a delicate process when it comes to our furry friends. Veterinary advice is helpful for: Choosing a quality diet for your German Shepherds weight loss plan. Determining an adequate feeding schedule and food amount to help your German Shepherd lose weight at a gradual pace. This can be done with routine blood work in your veterinary clinic. Help clear them medically for an increase in physical activity. Your veterinarian can rule out any physical ailments that could possibly limit their physical activity or become aggravated with the addition of daily exercise. Help you accurately track your German Shepherds progress through specific weighing and measurement. Final Thoughts Obesity can put your beloved German Shepherd at risk to several ailments that can reduce their quality of life. By understanding acceptable body sizes and healthy diet habits for your Shepherd, you can help to ensure a happy and comfortable future for your favorite pup!

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy About the Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever originated in Canada in the 19th century and is now a world-wide beloved dog breed. These dogs are medium-sized dogs, females have a height of .Their average weight as an adult is pounds for females and pounds for males. They have a life expectancy of years. When it comes to their temperament, Labrador retrievers are very loyal, friendly and affectionate companion dogs. They are known for being very social towards strangers and other dogs. Labrador retrievers also come in three colours : black, brown or yellow. These dogs are very active as they need plenty of walks, play time and affection. They are great with children and make a great companion dog. If you're thinking of adopting a Labrador retriever puppy, keep reading as we go through how to care for them! Learn more about the Labrador Retriever in our breed sheet. When to collect your Labrador puppy You can adopt and collect your Labrador puppy once they are 8 weeks old. This way, you make sure that they have had enough time to socialize with their family, mother and siblings. It also makes sure that they have developed good bite moderation before being adopted to their new family. Other advantages are that they have had time to drink their mother's milk and properly wean off. They will also feel more independent and will transition better to their new home after being 8 weeks old. We also encourage you to check out your local animal shelter before buying from a breeder. Where your puppy should sleep the first night When it comes to sleeping at night, your puppy will have some difficulties. This may be due to the new environment and new people. They may feel unprotected and disoriented. For this reason, it's normal to hear them cry as they may be calling their mother for guidance and company. Now that you've adopted this puppy, this is your job as their human companion. When they call out, try to be there for them as they are scared and lonely. Be understanding as your puppy learns to adapt to their new home. As a puppy is very dependent and on their first night they will feel scared and disoriented, it's best they sleep near you on their first night. Remember that puppies tend to sleep with their siblings and their mother. Being alone in a new place for the first time will be difficult for them. The best option for your new puppy is to sleep in their own bed inside your room, near you. So that if they feel scared or lost and cry, you can let them know that you are there with them. Once they feel more oriented and safe in their new home, you can move their bed to another location where they can sleep. Learn more in our article where we elaborate on how to prepare for your puppy's first night in their new home. What to feed your Labrador retriever puppy When feeding your Labrador retriever puppy, you will need to provide them with a rich and balanced diet. Keep in mind that puppies begin weaning when they are around weeks old. This means that they will slowly transition from their mother's milk to a solid food canine diet. A natural canine diet mainly consists in essential fatty acids and meat-based protein. The protein should have two or three types of protein from meat. For example: whole chicken, lamb, beef and fish. For fat sources, you can opt for chicken fat. Good fat sources can solute some of the most important vitamins a dog needs. When it comes to carbs, it should be kept in a low amount as dogs thrive on meat. If you are cooking for your dog, then we recommend to include low amounts of whole carbs, such as sweet potatoes. Lastly, you can offer some fruits and vegetables that provide good vitamins and minerals to help your dog's over-all health. Training your Labrador retriever puppy Labrador Retrievers are very active and intelligent dogs. Other than daily exercise, they will need basic dog training. Yes, even as a puppy! You can begin training your dog with paper training. Learn more about that in our article about paper training for puppies. You can then begin to teach them basic commands, such as to sit, stay, or even to play fetch. Remember to always train them for short amounts of time each day, not exceeding 15min, and always through positive reinforcement. This way, training will be enjoyable for them and will help you create a greater bond with them. To learn more, read our article about when to start training your puppy. Exercising your Labrador retriever puppy Your Labrador retriever puppy will needs plenty of exercise. Due to their small size as a puppy, this will mostly be at home. They will begin by playing with their siblings and walking or running around the house. Then, after their first round of vaccinations, usually around the age of 7 weeks old, puppies will begin to go outside. This is a very important part of their puppyhood as they will learn to go out on walks with their caregivers and will begin their socialization period. During this period, they will meet and interact with new people and other dogs. They will also explore new places. It's very important that during this period they have good interactions and don't get traumatized. When a puppy is well socialized from a young age, they will have a balanced temperament as adult dogs. Learn more in our article about socializing puppies. Hygiene care Next, we're going to talk about maintaining our puppy's hygiene. As Labrador puppies haven't grown their full coat, they won't need to be brushed regularly just yet. A bath is only necessary when they get very dirty on their outdoor walks. Dental hygiene is also important when it comes to caring for a puppy. You can opt for a dog tooth paste or a dental canine treat. Talk to your veterinarian to see which would be best for you puppy, and learn more in our article about dental hygiene for dogs. Other than that, we must make sure that their everyday environment is also clean and that we refresh their water bowl everyday. This way, our puppy will have great personal hygiene and we can help them prevent certain health issues from a young age. Health care Lastly, we're going to talk about your Labrador retriever's health. The Labrador Retriever is a relatively healthy and long-living dog, especially if they stay in shape. However, the lack of genetic diversity resulting from breeding programs makes them prone to certain hereditary diseases and conditions , which are usually manifested as the dog grows old. For instance, Labradors tend to suffer from hip dysplasia. When your Lab is a puppy, you must ensure they get the necessary vaccines, and you must follow their vaccination schedule during the rest of their lives. This will prevent them from suffering very serious diseases that tend to affect dogs. If you want your dog to stay as healthy as possible, go to the vet for check-ups every 6 months. You can prevent the development of common diseases by watching your Lab for symptoms and caring for them as best as you can. Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity - they love treats, and if they don't get enough exercise they will soon become overweight, with the related muscular and joint problems. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy We hope that this article has given you great insight when it comes to caring for a Labrador Retriever puppy. Here are some other helpful articles for caregivers that are adopting puppies:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Puppies Labrador puppies are a ball of fun. They are playful, cute, and always enjoy the company of children and adults. Labradors are not demanding dogs. They make ideal pets that are are amazing companion dogs that are always ready to follow their owner everywhere. If you are bringing a labrador puppy home this article is for you. Where do labradors originate from? The labrador breed of dog is originally from Newfoundland. They were later bred in the UK as hunting gun dogs. They are bred for their ability to retrieve, their friendly nature, and their ability to dominate field trials. A fully grown labrador is a large dog that lives for 12 to 13 years. Labradors are heavy dogs and weigh 80 pounds when fully grown. Female labradors weigh about 20 kilos less. Labradors come in three main colors I. Labradors have thick tails that are flat at the base and tapering at the edge. Labradors have a short dense coat. In this article, we will prepare you for when you bring a labrador puppy home. Nutritional needs and how to feed a labrador Labradors have a varying diet depending on the age of the puppy. At 2 to 6 months Labrador puppies are able to eat started dry food. Choose a brand of puppy food that is rich in the nutrition that puppies need. At months your dog will start to eat like an adult. You can also feed your dog thin strips of raw red meat or cooked chicken boneless with veggies. What alternative food can you feed your puppy other than kibble? There are a number of types of healthy dog food that you can feed your dog other than kibble. These foods can be meats, veg, and cooked food. Cooked chicken with the bones removed is healthy and tasty food for dogs. Dogs love the taste of eggs and it makes an ideal puppy food. Feed your dogs scrambled as they are rich in protein and are easy to digest for your puppy. Oatmeal for dogs is rich in fiber and helps your dog have a regular bowel movement. What are the concerns of feeding a puppy raw food? Raw food can be a risky proposition when feeding your dogs. Raw foods may contain bacteria that are a health risk to both humans and your puppy. An unbalanced diet of raw food can affect the health of your dog. It is for this reason that vets recommend kibble or feeding your dog cooked meats like chicken. How to choose the right food for your dog The correct food for your puppy should take up all its nutritional needs and ensure the health of your pet. Look out for good quality food that has the nutritional benefits for your dog printed on it. Such food should also contain proteins and minerals. Feeding your puppy in his crate The crate is the home for your puppy in the first few months of its life. Your puppy plays and grows older in its crate. Feeding your puppy in its crate increases its attachment to its living space. When feeding your puppy in its crate ensure that you have put the food all the way to the back of the crate. Choosing the proper food and water bowls Choose a food and water bowl for your puppy that is heavy and does not move around. Ensure that your puppy has separate bowls for food and water. Plastic bowls are an inexpensive option for your puppy bowl. Stainless steel bowls are also good as they do not break and are easy to rinse. Keeping your puppy at the proper weight Labrador puppies love to eat and for this reason, may become overweight quite easily. Ensure that you feed your puppy only twice a day with nutritious meals that are rich in all the various nutrients. Do not overfeed your puppy. A puppy needs only grams of food per sitting. Do not feed your puppy if it is asking for food between meals. Labrador puppies are known to be voracious eaters. Washing Your Labrador retriever Labrador puppies do not need a bath very often as they may fall sick. It is ideal to wash your puppy only once every 2 months. Use a mild dog shampoo when washing your puppy. So not use human shampoo as this may dry the skin of your puppy. A puppy has natural oils in its coat and this gets washed away when you shampoo your puppy. So, be aware of the specific bathing needs of your puppy. It protects its health and lets it grow up to be a big and strong dog. Taking care of a Labrador so that he is happy Labradors are jolly dogs that often wag their tail and like to be happy. In order to keep your labrador dog happy ensure that it gets a lot of fresh air and exercise. Taking care of Labrador so that he is happy Take your dog out for a walk once a day for at least an hour. You can play fetch with your puppy or have it follow you around. You can also teach your dog how to respond to its name and come when called. Buy your pet fun toys to play with when at home or outside. Labrador puppies love toys that they can play with. Praise your puppy often and give it a lot of love and attention. Take your puppy for walks and carry puppy snacks with you for when your puppy does a good deed. Remember, lots of love creates a happy labrador. Vaccinations It is extremely important to vaccinate your puppy after bringing her home from the pet store. There are a number of illnesses that may affect your dog if you do not vaccinate it on time. The vaccinations that your dog will need to prepare its health are as follows: Canine Parvovirus. Canine Distemper. The ideal weight for a labrador puppy at 3 months is 25 lbs and at 6 months that weight will be 50 Lbs. On average a Labrador puppy will gain two pounds of each week of weight. If your puppy is picking up weight to fast try and cut down its below meals snack and ensure that you are feeding your dog the ideal amount of food. Daily Exercise A puppy that has daily exercise is a happy puppy. Your puppy should exercise at least once a day with a walk that is nearly an hour long. Having not enough exercise may cause your dog health issues like joint problems, weight gain, and other health issues. Exercising your dog not just keeps it healthy but also helps you develop a bond with your pet. Training your labrador puppy Owing to the size of the labrador breed training your dog later in life can be daunting as they are large and excitable dogs. Instead start training your dog at an early age. You can start training your dog from 6 to 12 weeks old. Training sessions should be fun. You can start toilet training your dog at this age. You can also start with simple commands such as getting your dog to follow when you call it and teaching your dogs commands such as sit and fetch. Reward behavior that you want to encourage in your dog. Dealing with parasites No matter how much you take care of your dog it may get parasites like fleas, ticks, and tapeworms. If this is the case you should give your dog a bath using medicated shampoos to care for your dog. You can also give your dog a deworming pill to get rid of any internal parasites. Visit a vet at least once every two months. Take him or her to the vet immediately so that it may get the proper medical care it needs.