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Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Puppy Development Stages In the first 7 weeks of life, puppies gain use of all the senses, become mobile, start growing baby teeth, transition to eating solid foods, and become completely weaned independent from their dog moms. Learning is already rapidly occurring, making it important that human caretakers provide puppies with specific neurological stimulation, a complex environment, and careful, yet thorough, socialization for proper development and adjustment to living in human society. During this time, there are also very critical lessons that the puppies must learn from their dog moms and siblings. Therefore, puppies should not be removed from their original homes before weeks of age but we prefer 10 weeks. This is called the imprinting, or critical learning period. For puppies, the imprinting period is during the first 16 weeks of life. Puppies learn more during this time than they can learn in a life time. That is why we feel it's very important to socialize our puppies before you get them home so they will have a great start to a happy life. As soon as your puppy comes home, time is of the essence for you to provide a huge heaping of high quality socialization and schooling. This is the key to creating a socially self-confident, well-behaved puppy that is strongly bonded to you. Fear-Impact Period: During the 2nd Socialization Period, when your puppy is around weeks of age, it is important to be aware of what is known as a Fear-Impact Period. So, protect your puppy from these long-term effects by avoiding bad experiences. That is good parenting! This will typically occur between months of age, but sometimes lasts longer. This is a great time to sign your puppy up for puppy classes at your local trainer. As a breeder I cannot stress enough how very important this is to your puppy and your family. This is similar to the First Fear-Impact Period. If it does not occur at this time, it will occur later during the Adolescent Period. This is usually a difficult time for many puppy parents, but can be a mess for those with puppies that missed early establishment of boundaries, socialization and training. Just be patient, consistent, and supportive—make sure boundaries are still well in place, review your training, and continue building on your successes. Smaller breed puppies will usually attain maturity by around 1 year of age and large-giant puppies can take up to 2 years. Their bones will be fully developed at this age. Mentally and socially, a dog may be considered a puppy for up to 4 years! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. When considering bringing a new dog into your life, it is always important to consider how long that dog is likely to live. In this article, we will go through exactly how long you should expect your Labradoodle to live, which is largely determined by whether their poodle parent was a standard, miniature, or toy poodle. We will also go through all the different life stages of a Labradoodle and what to expect in each. What Is A Labradoodle? Labradoodles are crossbreed dogs that you get when you mix a Labrador retriever with a poodle. They are varieties that are a mix between a Lab and all the different poodle sizes including standard, miniature, and toy. They were bred because, while the temperament, intelligence, and trainability of Labrador retrievers make them excellent service dogs, they shed—a lot. This can be a huge problem when it comes to taking them into hospitals, public places such as restaurants, and even cleaning up after them at home. Poodles were chosen to crossbreed because they have a low-shedding coat. Their tight, curly coats mean that instead of leaving hair wherever they go, it gets caught up in their coat. Poodles are also highly intelligent dogs, even more intelligent than Labradors, and also very friendly, having been bred as companion animals. They are less outgoing than Labradors, but overall it was thought that they would add to, rather than subtract from, the characteristics that make Labradors excellent service dogs. You can read more about the Labradoodle coat and shedding in this article. How Long Do Labradoodles Live? All Labradoodles have a lifespan of roughly 12 to 14 years. Various factors influence where each dog is likely to fall within this scale. Labrador retrievers and standard poodles both tend to live around 12 years. So if you have a standard Labradoodle, you should probably expect them to have a slightly shorter lifespan at around the year mark. Miniature and toy poodles often live longer, as small dogs tend to live longer in general. So if you have a Lab that is mixed with one of these smaller breeds, you might expect them to live for an additional year or so. While these expectations are based on the average lifespan of their parent pups, some research suggests that crossbreed dogs live longer than their parents, by about a year or two. There are plenty of examples of Labradoodles living well into their late teens. Labradoodle Life Stages Throughout their lives, you can expect your Labradoodle to pass through five main life stages: puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle age, and senior. Exactly when they will pass through each of these stages again depends on whether the Labradoodle is a standard, miniature, or toy cross. Smaller dogs tend to grow to maturity more quickly but then live longer. Conversely, larger dogs stay puppies longer but have shorter overall life expectancies. Puppyhood Labradoodles tend to be classified as puppies for the first five months of their lives. But just like with human babies, because they are growing so quickly at this time, they will pass through a number of different puppy stages. It is during this stage that you will find that littermates love to cuddle up and spend the day sleeping one on top of one another. During this stage, they are more interested in their mother and siblings than there are in people, but they do begin to learn that there is a bigger world and might start to explore a little in the later weeks. It is around this stage that they can also start to move onto dog food. This is often a necessity, as the mother will refuse to suckle them as their growing teeth cause her pain. This is a very important time, as they are also very impressionable. So they need plenty of attention, praise, and love. Training them at this stage will also teach them about action and reward, which will make them easier to train to do other things as adults. They will already understand that correct behavior can result in good things. At this stage, you can also start to expose the puppy to new people and new experiences. This is essential to the socialization process, so that they learn what to do when confronted by the unknown. This is a great time to try to take the puppy with you most everywhere you go. Essential training should continue throughout this stage. Adolescence Much like humans, during this stage Labradoodle puppies seem like they are either eating or sleeping all the time to manage big growth spurts, or getting into trouble. This period tends to last from around five or six months until about two years of age. But they also become more unpredictable as hormones start to play a role. Expect them to want to play all the time, to jump up a lot, and to do things that test your limits. Nevertheless, at this stage your Labradoodle should be fully housebroken, should have passed through that biting phase, and should be better at paying attention to you. They also lose their awkwardness around this age and seem more coordinated. Labradoodles in particular will start to show quite a bit of strength and agility at this stage. They should have all their adult teeth, but they still love to chew! This is something they inherit from the Labrador parent. Make sure to have an abundance of chew toys available to focus their otherwise destructive chewing. It is also during adolescence that territorial behavior tends to kick in. Your pup may become protective of their possessions, territorial of their home, and could start to bark at strangers. Also be aware that at some stage during adolescence—it can vary quite a bit—your dog will become sexually mature. Adulthood Depending on the particular type of Labradoodle that you have, you can expect them to settle down into adulthood at between two and three years of age. They should be about fully grown at this stage. So instead of getting bigger, you need to worry about them getting fatter! While it is natural for them to fill out a bit in the early stages of adulthood, it is important to keep an eye on their weight and their diet at this time. They will enter their physical and mental prime during this period, as they are much calmer and more tranquil. If they are being trained as a service dog, they can start working once they reach adulthood. None of this is to say that Labradoodles cannot continue to develop and learn new things at this time. Labradors and Labradoodles are very easy to train and can be taught new skills and behaviors at almost any age. Middle Age Your dog will start to enter the later stages of their life at about the ripe old age of seven years. At this point, Labradoodles still tend to be active and healthy dogs, but they do start to slow down a bit. It is also at this time that their joints might start to become stiff, and they can begin to develop more serious joint problems. You can try and alleviate this by feeding them supplements to support their joints. You can read more about joint supplements here. Senior When your Labradoodle hits nine or 10 years, they are truly senior and they will probably start to need a bit of extra care and attention. Joint pain is a common problem for Labradoodles, so you may need to make some adjustments to your home to accommodate them. Labradoodles also have a tendency to lose their eyesight in later years, and to feel the cold more intensely. Their appetite is also likely to change as this time, as is their metabolism. So again, watch their weight and what they are eating to maintain them at a healthy weight. This is especially important if they are suffering with joint issues, as excess weight will just make mobility even more challenging. Labradoodles are inclined toward a variety of health conditions, inherited from both their Labrador and poodle parents. The main Labradoodle health conditions to be aware of are: Allergies Labradoodles often develop food allergies, usually in their early years before they reach two years of age. This can often be caused by eating too much of certain foods in these formative months. But Labradoodles can also develop allergies in later life, and you might find that at age eight they are suddenly reacting to something that they have eaten their entire life. Labradoodles usually show an allergic reaction with skin itchiness and an upset stomach. If you notice these signs, visit your vet to try to identify what might be causing the problem. Ear Infections Labradoodles have floppy ears that cover the ear tracts. This means they are generally moist, dark spaces, which means breeding grounds for infections. This is also a common problem for Labradors but can be worse for Labradoodles because the curly hair in their ears can also trap moisture and foreign bodies. If they seem to have itchy ears, or if you notice smells coming from their ears, this is a sign that something is not quite right. This will mean a trip to the vet to determine the type of ear infection and the best treatment. Regular ear cleaning, especially after sleeping or bathing, is the best way to reduce the prevalence of ear infections in Labradoodles. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological condition, of which one of the main symptoms is seizures. Labradoodles are quite prone to this condition. There is no cure, and treatment depends on the severity of the seizures and how often they occur. If your dog rarely has seizures, your vet will probably avoid medication, as it is not worth the risk. You may need to do some things to make your home safer for your dog, making it less likely that they will accidentally hurt themselves in the event of a seizure. Joint Issues Another issue inherited from their Labrador parents, Labradoodles often develop joint issues, especially in the hips, but it can be anywhere. Over time, what was an uncomfortable twinge can develop into serious pain, arthritis, and even lameness. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Sometimes joint supplements can be enough to keep your dog comfortable, while in other cases they might need serious pain medication. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This is a condition where a portion of the eye degenerates, eventually leading to blindness. This is quite common in Labradoodles and will usually affect both eyes, resulting in complete blindness. However, it is known to occasionally occur in puppies as well. There is no known treatment, though it is thought that a diet high in antioxidants may be able to help slow the progression of the condition. Signs of the disease include excessive bleeding and bruising where the dog is injured, but also spontaneos bleeds, for example nosebleeds, or blood in their urine or stool. This poses a risk to your Labradoodle throughout their lives, as they may need to avoid certain medications that can further thin the blood, as well as activities where they are at risk of getting injured. If they need surgery for some reason, such as when they are neutered, they will probably also require a platelet transfusion before the surgery. The Verdict When you decide to bring a Labradoodle puppy in your life, you are committing to love and care for that dog for about 12 to 14 years, which is the average lifespan of this crossbreed. During that time, they will pass through a number of different life stages, from being adorable puppies, naughty adolescents appropriately called the terrible twos , intelligent adults, and vulnerable seniors. But throughout all these life stages, a Labradoodle should give you a great deal of love and fulfilment. Do you have a Labradoodle? What is your experience living with these wonderful dogs? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or via our social media. Related Article. Supplies Puppy Stages Your puppy will pass through many stages as they grow and develop. Many puppy owners are shocked, surprised or downright freaked out about the way that their cute little puppy is behaving. Just check the stage of development that the little guy or gal is in.Behaviors can be accounted for with these stages, but a lot of these behaviors are also not acceptable and you must train and lead the way. The mother of your puppy will start the process by building the foundation. This responsibility will then be turned over to you. It can not be expressed enough times how important it is for you to train and lead your puppy so that they will be a happy, well-adjusted member of your family for life. They venture into the surrounding environment. Puppies removed too early from their litter tend to be nervous, bark inappropriately, and tend to bite simply because these lessons that are taught by the mother and litter mates were missed. Training problems and long-term behavior problems can often be attributed to a puppy removed from the litter much too soon. Beginning At 3 Weeks of Age: -The first lessons learned are dog specific behavioral patterns. Beginning At 5 Weeks of Age: -Vocalization and tempered activities dog manners usually are learned at approximately five weeks of age. With a few very clear signals and repetitions, the young puppy will learn quickly. Litter mates also learn clear signals of communication to each other. It is during this time that your dog needs to have positive experiences. They need to be introduced to new things and begin the groundwork to a happy, well-adjusted dog. Beginning At 7 Weeks of Age: -Short attention spans -Things learned are permanent and will be more challenging to change. Beginning At 8 Weeks and Ending At Approximately 11 Weeks of Age: -Any traumatic, painful, or frightening experiences can have a lasting impact if not dealt with right away. What You Can Do: -Gradually introduce your puppy to new things, environments, and people. They have been watching you and the family very closely. They are picking up on human behaviors and reactions. They are learning the pecking order of the pack. As they observe and learn, they will then attempt to figure out where exactly they stand in the pack order, and to also see if moving up in the pack will work. How could such a cute little pup be such a pistol? What Is Happening: -Puppy will begin to question authority. They have become aware of where you are and would stay pretty close. During this period, that same cute little puppy will decide that they are ready to go solo and take off running quicker than lightning. During this time, teaching the puppy that they must stay close by or come when called is critical. The failure to do this will result in a dog that will not be reliable to come or to stay close by as an adult and very well could lead the dog into a life or death situation. What Is Happening: -The puppy will become more independent. This often is the time when many families start to worry that maybe they made a bad decision in getting a dog. Remember, you get what you put into it. If you take the time right now to teach good habits, you will have the dog you always dreamed of for many years. This work will pay off. What Is Happening: -The puppy will become a free and independent thinker. It will help. This is normal, but you must help your dog figure out how to deal with their fears or concerns. It will also reduce the changes that the things they fear will not be permanently imprinted for life. What Is Happening: -The puppy that was so confident will suddenly become reluctant to new things. If you act frightened or concerned, they will too. They are pretty much full grown in height. They will begin to fill out a bit and develop more muscle tone. But mentally, the dog is still working out some details of their life and what it means to them. They are a member of the pack and now begin to find that their turf is worthy of monitoring and protecting. This can lead to aggressive behaviors, protective to the point of creating fear or actually harming someone or another animal as they attempt to protect. This is bad news, and often the reason a dog becomes destructive or is taken out of the home. What Is Happening: -The dog may become more turf protective. What You Can Do: -Reinforce how to greet strangers into your home. Well developed sense of smell. Nuzzling against warmth. Development of sucking response and motor skills. Sleeping, eating, Pooping.During this period, mild stress to the puppy is helpful in creating a stable personality. Mild Stress: handling by a human, thermal stress Transitional Period days. Eyes begin to open. Increase in sensory capacity and motor skills. Beginning of sociability. Puppies prefer to remain in their group and with their mother, rather than alone even if external conditions are favorable. Toward the end of this period, the puppies will show increased in inquisitiveness and the emergence of their upper canine teeth. Also at this stage the puppies will experience the very beginnings of play. Much more play and exploration of the outside world. Development of fear and avoidance of strange situations. Sensitivity to the outside world. Subjection to humans is paramount during this phase. If social contact with humans is kept to a minimum, your puppy never really becomes comfortable with people and never develops a sense of trust. Socialization with other dogs is also extremely important during this period, as well. Understanding of the canine social system, behavioral posturing and responses. Eating of solid foods and weaning by their mother. The puppy's sensitivity increases; the puppies can run, wrestle and play. At 12 weeks of age, your puppy is like an 18 month old child. Inquisitive, responsive to verbal language, but still is not sure of what is being requested of them. Your puppy's attention span increases, energy level increases. Social responses increase. Your puppy desires longer contact with a social system, human and dog, and longer periods of play. At 6 months of age, your puppy is comparable to a 13 year old child. Your puppy's energy level increases dramatically. Independence is a land mark change in your puppy's behavior. Refusal to comply with simple requests to go outside or to come inside. Your puppy may begin to resist physical dominance. Early on this positioning takes the form of play. Growling over the food dish and favorite toys may take place. At 1 year to 18 months of age, your young adult dog is similar to a 16 to 17 year old, ready to take on the world. If the foundation is lacking or nonexistent, you will have a juvenile delinquent on your hands. If training begins at this point in your dog's life, you may be up for a knock -down-drag -out battle. Depending on the dog's basic temperament, you could end up with a well mannered member of society or a dog that will consistently challenge authority, walking around with a chip on his or her shoulders. At 2 years of age, your dog is finally an adult. The training program that you have established throughout has paid off. Tasks that were normally performed in a heartbeat may be thought about a little longer. This is the perfect time for a refresher course in the basics, if you allowed them to slack. The owner will say they kept up the training program for a period and then began to let it slack. The owner will tell me that their dogs seem to have forgotten everything. Dogs don't forget.Remember, you have an adult now , not a puppy.Arthritis, sight failings, hearing loss to name a few. Tolerance is the key here since correction is not warranted. Just like us.Light obedience, if nothing else, is a good program for your older dog. Most dogs enjoy the special one on one time that obedience training provides and older dogs are no exceptions to this. They venture into the surrounding environment. Puppies removed too early tend to be nervous, tend to bark inappropriately, tend to bite simply because these lessons a mother and littermates usually provides were missed. Training problems and long-term behavior problems can often be attributed to a puppy removed from the litter much too soon. Beginning at 3 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy devleopment: The first lessons learned are dog specific behavioral patterns They will learn various postures meanings and their affects to their mother and littermates. They will learn how to bite and what it is like to be bitten. They will learn what barking and other vocalizations mean and their uses. They will learn how to establish social relationships with other dogs. Beginning at 5 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy development: Vocalization and tempered activities dog manners usually are learned at approximately 5 weeks of age. They will learn how to be submissive to the leader of the pack. They will learn and refine additional postures, vocalizations, and acceptable dog interaction behaviors. With a few very clear signals and repetitions, the young puppy will learn quickly. At that point, a mothers glare or low growl is all that is needed to keep a young pup in line. Littermates also learn clear signals of communication to each other. It is during this time, that your dog needs to have positive experiences. They need to be introduced to new things and begin the groundwork to a happy, well-adjusted dog. Beginning at 7 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy development: Short attention spans. Things learned are permanent and will be resistant to change. Puppy will be eager to learn. What he does and learns now, he will do as an adult. Puppy will be transitioning his education from his mother to his human environment. Beginning at 8 weeks and ending at approximately 11 weeks of age, what is going on: Any traumatic, painful or frightening experiences can have a lasting impact. What You Can Do: Gradually introduce your puppy to new things, environments and people. Do not let others push your puppy or be forceful with them. Provide a secure comforting demeanor. Teach the puppy you are there to protect and lead. He has been watching you and the family very closely. He is picking up on human behaviors and reactions. He is learning the pecking order of the pack. As he observes and learns, he will then attempt to figure out where exactly he stands in the pack order and to also see if moving up in the pack will work. How could such a cute little pup be such a pistol? What is going on at this stage of puppy development: Puppy will begin to question authority. Puppy will attempt to move himself up in the pack order. Puppy will try to dominate. Puppy will grab leashes Puppy will try to determine what activities are going to be done and when. Puppy may growl. Puppy may put his mouth on you. Puppy can often become over excited. What you can do: Learn how your actions and body language communicate to your dog. Do not play aggressive games during this phase. Tug or wrestling If puppy becomes over excited, growls or mouths you, you stop all activity. Be very aware of how the puppy interacts with children — do not leave children unattended with the puppy. Enroll in a puppy kindergarten class to redirect some of the energy. He has been aware of where you are and would stay pretty close. During this period that same cute little puppy will decide that he is ready to go solo and take off running quicker than lightening. During this time, teaching the puppy that he must stay close by or come when called is critical. The failure to do this will result in a dog that will not be reliable to come or to stay close by as an adult and very well could lead the dog into a life or death situation. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy will become more independent. A puppy that previously would never go very far, will venture off. The Puppy will ignore commands to stay close or come. How you handle refusal to come or stay will affect future reliability off leash. Puppy will be clever in attempts to run around loose. Never allow dog loose in an unconfined area. Yes this is redundant to the above, so it must be pretty important for us to say it twice. Being off leash outside of a confined area is reserved for who have been well trained. Enroll in a training class that utilizes positive training techniques. Make coming a very positive experience. Oh… and never allow your puppy to be off leash in an unconfined area. This often is a time when many families start to worry that maybe they made a bad decision in getting a dog. Remember: you get what you put into it. You take the time right now to teach good habits, you will have the dog you always dreamed of for many years. This work will payoff. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy will become a free and independent thinker. The puppy will continue to review the pack order. The puppy will be very energetic. The puppy will be exuberant and enthusiastic. They turn into clowns with teeth. They will delight in learning new and fun things. What you can do: Appreciate the humor of it all. Have you read the book The Dog Listener yet? It will help. Understand that despite the behaviors it is your time to continue to train and reinforce the things you do want him to do. Reaffirm the family pack order. Be realistic about expectations still very much a puppy in a big boy body Channel all that energy into positive learning experiences. Continue with training classes; explore options for additional training opportunities. This is normal, but you must help your dog figure out how to deal with his fears or concerns. It will also reduce the chances that the things he fears will not be permanently imprinted for life. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy that was so confident will suddenly become reluctant to new things. This period can be subtle. This period can come and go several times over this entire period. It may appear to be unprovoked or unrelated to any specific occurrence. Puppy can become frustrating to owners. You may notice this behavior more in males. What you can do: Avoid extremes in your response no anger or forcing or over comforting Be patient and understanding. We aware of surrounding and potential triggers. Work on desensitizing him with gradual introductions with rewards. Praise with grand rewards for his attempts. Your dog will take his clues from you, if you act frightened or concerned he will too. He will begin to fill out a bit and develop more muscle tone. But, mentally, the dog is still working out some last details of his life and what it means to him. He IS a member of a pack and now begins to find that his turf is worthy of monitoring and protecting. You do not want you dog to take over these responsibilities because in no time you too will be under the rule of the King Dog. Which can lead to aggressive behaviors, protective to the point of creating fear or actually harming someone or another animal as he protects. This is bad news, and often a reason a dog is taken out of the home or destroyed. What is going on: The dog may become more turf protective. Strangers may be greeted with barking. Barking at noises, birds, cars, butterflies, pretty much everything he believe worthy of attention. Playing with other dogs may escalate to fighting. Same sex confrontations of other dogs can occur. Once again, checking the pack order to see if he can move up. What you can do: Reinforce how to greet strangers into your home. Teach your dog to ignore dogs he cannot be nice to. Practice or reinforce dog manners utilizing no threatening dogs Learn to read your dog and other dogs. Circling, walking on toes, stiff tail wags, tense facial expressions — are the signs of aggressive behaviors Rally your family to review that the pack order is clear and very one is consistent with training and corrections. Reward him for good behaviors. Give that dog another job, therapy work, obedience classes, agility. Republished with permission from International Doodle Owners Group. Save Save Ready for your puppy? It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. Most vets recommend treating your puppy for worms at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 weeks of age. After that, they should receive treatment every three months for all of their life. Based on where you live, your vet will advise you of what type of treatment your dog should have. Worming medication is relatively easy to administer yourself, so you may choose to go that route, or you can have your vet do the treatment. Here are some signs your puppy may be infected with worms: Diarrhea or vomiting. Weight loss despite eating well. Weakness and listlessness. Abnormally swollen stomach. Biting Phase All puppies bite! When the puppy starts teething, he is going to chew and bite. Biting gives the dog relief from the pain of teething. It also helps with boredom. When the puppy starts biting, take your hand away and give him an acceptable substitute like a chew toy. Having a variety of toys to choose from can really help here, as puppies, like children, will quickly lose interest when given the same toy over and over again. This variety toy bundle is packed with 12 different toys — ropes, balls, chews, and squeaky toys — that are perfect for little puppy mouths and needle-sharp teeth. An excellent value! No products found. Each time he bites, repeat this process and praise him when he chews on the toy instead of your fingers. When my dog, Oliver, was going through this phase, I found that a frozen puppy Kong really helped. Just be patient. The most important thing to remember is that this is just a phase that will soon be outgrown. Housebreaking is a huge responsibility that can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months depending on the puppy. For example, a 5-month-old puppy may be able to go for five hours in between potty breaks, but a 3-month-old puppy can only wait up to three hours before needing relief. For the best success at housebreaking, you need to be consistent and take the puppy outside at the following times. First thing in the morning. Right after eating. Right after waking from a nap. Just before bedtime. Any time you see the pup sniffing the floor. Carry the puppy outside to where you want him to go and put him down. As soon as he goes, praise him and bring him back inside. Do not allow him to play. With persistence and consistency, you should have your Labradoodle puppy housebroken in no time at all. Tip: Crate training your Labradoodle puppy will speed the housebreaking process significantly. This is the crate I use for my Doodles. Take the puppy around other dogs and animals once your vet gives the go-ahead. This can easily become overwhelming for shy or timid pups — we give you tips for making this a positive, successful experience in this article. You may also want to encourage young children to gently pet the dog with supervision of course to get him used to other people. When socializing your puppy, be aware that puppies undergo two distinct fear periods as they mature. The first occurs between 8 and 12 weeks, and the second can happen anytime between the ages of 4 and 14 months. If your puppy grows up feeling he should avoid children or be afraid of other animals, it can become a problem later. Visit our socialization article for more ideas and tips. Training Training your Labradoodle puppy should begin almost as soon as you bring him home. Give him a day or two to get used to you and his new surroundings and then begin working with him. Exactly how easy are they to train? Find out here. By the time your puppy is about 4 months old, you can begin teaching him tricks. Labradoodles are playful and intelligent dogs that love learning new things. Even the color might be slightly different. Depending on the type of Labradoodle you have, your pup will have either a fleece, hair, or wool coat. We explain more about Labradoodle puppy coats here. It will have to be groomed or brushed out as the new coat begins to come in. Failure to brush out the old dead coat can result in severe matting of the new coat, which can be a mess to deal with. Your Labradoodle will begin losing its puppy coat between 10 weeks and 14 weeks of age. The entire process of puppy coat to adult coat usually takes anywhere from one to several weeks. Although it varies from dog to dog, the baby teeth begin falling out between 14 and 30 weeks of age as adult teeth begin pushing their way through the gums. They may even begin falling out as early as 10 weeks old. The incisors are the first to fall out followed by the canines, and the premolars are the last to fall out. By the time the puppy is 8 months old, he or she should have a full set 42 of adult teeth. The dog will have 16 premolars, 12 incisors, 10 molars, and four canines. Keep those new adult teeth healthy by following the tips found in our Brushing Guide and how-to video. Related Questions: What is the average size for a Labradoodle litter? Although this can vary from dog to dog, the average size for a Labradoodle litter is eight. Litter sizes of five to nine are very common. Usually, the larger the breed is, the more puppies per litter can be expected, though first-time moms sometimes have smaller litters. They usually start yipping and barking around four to six weeks old, although it may not sound like barking at first. All dogs are not the same. Each one is different. Conclusion After obtaining all this information on the various stages of development your Labradoodle puppy will experience, you may still have some concerns. All puppy parents do! Worry just goes with the territory. Focus on enjoying and treasuring each growth stage because before you know it, that cute little puppy will be all grown up and puppyhood will be a thing of the past. Also, having an information-packed guide at your disposal can give you answers and calm some of your worries. Key milestones to look out for include teething, going for their first walk, completing potty training, and being ready to start obedience training. Your Labradoodle Puppy Your new Labradoodle puppy may be an adorable little bundle of fur now. But Labradoodle puppies, like all puppies, grow up fast! When will your Doodle puppy reach its full adult size? What about behavioral milestones, such socializing with other dogs, fetching toys, or responding to commands? New puppy owners often have lots of questions about puppy growth and development. Before your puppy even comes home with you, it will have already completed some important early phases of development. The time spent in the womb is called the gestation period. The average gestation period for Labradoodles is around 63 days, or 9 weeks. If your puppy came to you from a breeder, chances are it spent the first couple of months of life with mom and littermates, before coming to you. What went on during those first few weeks? The earliest stages of puppy development are important to the good health and behavior of a dog over its whole lifetime. Neonatal Weeks Newborn puppies are born deaf, blind, and unable to stand or walk. In the first days of life, your puppy will seek warmth, nutrition, and care from the mother. Your puppy will want to be close to mom and is totally dependent on her care and attention. Separation from mom at this stage will cause your puppy distress as it is still too soon to be away from the mother. Your puppy will become more aware of its environment and begin to explore. Interaction with mom will expand to include play, and your puppy will also play with its littermates. After socializing with its canine family, your puppy will also begin socializing with humans. During this time, a puppy can be fearful of new experiences, so introduction to people and animals should be done carefully. Your puppy will also start weaning onto solid food from 3 weeks onwards, and by 8 weeks old, your puppy is old enough to come home and join their forever family. Late Socialization 12 Weeks-6 Months Some Labradoodle breeders prefer to wait until this development stage before giving puppies to their new owners. This is also a time to encourage good behaviors and discourage bad behaviors like biting and aggression. Potty and crate training are key during this time. Puppy Growth Milestones Lots of physical changes happen to a young puppy in the first few months of life. Here are a few important changes that your Labradoodle puppy will experience after coming home with you. Teeth A puppy grows 28 baby teeth also called deciduous teeth that will fall out and then be replaced by 42 permanent teeth. They may begin to fall out while your puppy is still with the breeder, or once they are home with you, at around 12 weeks of age. Like most dogs, Labradoodle puppies like to chew during the teething process. They also chew to explore the world around them. Provide your puppy with a variety of safe chew toys and discourage biting during play. While your puppy will probably continue to enjoy chewing, most excessive chewing behavior will go away by months of age. And is neutering necessary? There is some evidence that there are health issues associated with neutering. Keeping a male or female dog intact is not a straightforward decision. Especially for a female dog that will come i nto heat every six months or so once she is mature, unless she is spayed. Veterinarians take several factors into consideration when advising on the best age to spay or neuter puppies, including the breed, size, and overall health of each individual animal. Recent research shows that early spaying and neutering before 6 months of age can increase the risk of joint disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia associated with neutering, in larger dog breeds, including the Labrador Retriever. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best plan of action for your individual puppy. Getting Ready To Go Outside Taking your puppy out for their first walk is an exciting and proud moment for many puppy parents. The exact timing of this will depend upon what age they receive their first shots. When is a Labradoodle Puppy Fully Grown? When will your Labradoodle puppy reach adult size? There are three sizes of Labradoodle: standard, medium, and miniature. A full-grown Labradoodle can weigh anywhere from 20 to 70 pounds and stand between 14 and 24 inches at the shoulder, depending on its size category. Many Labradoodle owners report that their puppies reach their adult height at around one year of age, but they will continue to fill out and gain weight for several months beyond that, up to age two. A high-quality diet, plenty of exercise, and good training and socialization in the first year of life can ensure that your Labradoodle puppy develops into a healthy and happy dog. During this time they grow physically, mature emotionally, and learn lots of new skills. For some stages of puppy development, such as socialization, timing is critical. What milestones are they meeting at the moment? Let us know in the comments box down below! Accessed February .The life stages of a Labradoodle include four phases — puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senior. Most small breeds obtain their maturity quickly and tend to live longer. Larger breeds mature slowly and generally have shorter adulthoods and senior years. Your Labradoodle is considered a medium or standard dog and should be about 50 to 65 pounds. They hopefully have an excellent range of living or from years. This phase ends when your dog is about five months old. Of course, dogs do age at different speeds, and larger dogs mature slower than smaller dogs. The stages of a puppy are: From weeks, puppies are learning submission and attention behaviors, attention, and how to get along with siblings and mom. At weeks, puppies are forming a strong bond with people and are mentally mature enough to adjust to changes. They eat dog food and no longer need the attention of mom. From weeks, your Labradoodle puppy is impressionable. They look for objects and people associations. Make sure your puppy has positive experiences with other animals, people, and new situations. Try and avoid scary experiences at this time. Unpleasant experiences should be turned into positive experiences. Praise, love, and laugh up your puppy. Do not give the human empathetic response of reassurance, even at vaccination time. At weeks, try enrolling your puppy in the training class. In class, you are taught how to train your puppy. Never punish your puppy for any reason. Expose your labradoodle puppy to new things and experiences as well as people. Keep the situation positive. Use a leash to keep your puppy under control and safe. When your puppy is between months, they are considered pre-adolescents. Labradoodle puppies gain confidence and more independence. Continue training, and do take your puppy with you everywhere. Keeping your puppy by you gives your puppy time to bond with you and understand what is expected of them. When your puppy is months, be aware that your puppy has needs for stimulation, companionship, and activity. They get bored quickly and never seem to be inactive. They will run away, chew, bark, and be generally obnoxious. Yet, at this time, Labradoodles are wonderful companions, teachable, and pleasurable. Just like a child, love your Labradoodle during this Labradoodle life stages. You will be well rewarded for your efforts. Adolescence is when your puppy starts to lose its awkward nature, and adolescent behavior driven by hormonal influences starts to emerge. Often vets will claim a dog is in the adolescent phase for years, depending on the breed. Dogs are most challenging between the age of 8 months to about 18 months. At this point, you can call your dog a teenager, and they exhibit controlling habits like: Elimination; should be potty trained, No more indiscriminate biting, Focus improves, Labradoodles begin to sense their strength and agility, Labradoodles have their adult teeth, but still, need to chew. Keep your dog from being bored, curious, or anxious, and they will not chew on everything. However, just like the teenage years in humans, your dog will be erratic and unpredictable. They will act goofy, playful one minute, and in the net instant, they will be obsessed with what is going on around them. An adolescent will be: Bolder in play, Jump on everyone and everything, Chew on random things, Tend to wander away. Having a rebellious labradoodle can be an exciting time. Labradoodle life stages of adolescence are the time these dogs show independence, territoriality, and protectiveness of possessions and food. They are interested in other dogs and strangers and may start barking. Now is the time to begin intensive training. Be aware that adolescence is the time when dogs begin to find their sexuality. Sexual maturity can happen as early as six months, or in larger breeds, this type of maturity can take as long as two years to be sexually mature. If you have had your dog since puppyhood, you are already off to a good start building bonds. Keep up the excellent work. Teething is just about done. No more teething is an awesome phase when your dog no longer chews on everything. Make sure you give your teenage dog appropriate toys to chew on — they have powerful jaws. Different sleeping schedules seem to appear. When your puppy spent more time asleep than awake, it was lovely. However, your teenage labradoodle will have an endless supply of energy. Keep up the fun training sessions and brain games and give you labradoodle plenty of exercises. Your labradoodle will likely wake up at nighttime to roam around and play. Have patience and put up with this phase! Socialize your teenage dog. You have socialized your puppy during their young age, but do not stop now. Expose your dog to different places, people, dogs, and situations. Keep different experiences positive. Do not worry if your dog appears to be fearful of things or situations he previously loved. These moments will come and go, and fears and likes will change. Your teenage Labradoodle will love going for walks. Keep them on a leash and train them well. If your labradoodle suddenly stops walking and stands very still, do not worry. Just keep walking, resist the urge to punish your labradoodle, and do not let him off-leash. Training will come and go, but although he learned to sit, lie down, and to come, and he ignores your commands, he will still remember. Right now, your teenager is having trouble accessing all the knowledge he learned. Training will return to normal if you are patient and keep up the rewarding, training, and your breathing. Males begin marking their territory and lifting their leg for the first time. Females also start marking their territory at this time. Aggression to other dogs can increase during this time of adolescence, and your labradoodle is learning to establish their territory, social status, and bonding with their family. Depending on the size, breed, and individuality of your labradoodle, adulthood starts at about three. Now your labradoodle is not growing so fast, and instead of getting longer and taller, your dog begins to fill out. Their chest and shoulders may broaden a bit. Troublesome behaviors calm down, and your labradoodle is not as excitable as when they were adolescents. Your labradoodle is maturing and gaining confidence. Labradoodles reach their physical prime in adulthood. If you have trained and socialized your labradoodle in puppyhood and adolescence, you will have a well-trained adult dog. You can take them out in public, walk them on a leash, and your dog exhibits confidence. An adult labradoodle is still capable of social development, training, and learning. They are influenced by their environment, social interactions, and by you. Keep up established routines, socialization, training, and leadership. Find new opportunities to keep your labradoodle exercised in both mind and body. Usually, a labradoodle older than seven years is considered mature. If your labradoodle is smaller, they will tend to live several more years. Mature dogs are easier to care for than puppies or adolescents, but they still need your companionship and socialization. Make sure your Labradoodle gets plenty of exercise to keep him active and at a healthy weight. Do not neglect vet visits. Good dental hygiene is essential as your labradoodle ages. Professional cleaning and regular brushing will prevent dental disease and decay. Use dental treats and toys if your dog will not let you brush their teeth. Mature dogs may have food issues, lack of appetite, obesity, or digestive difficulties. You may need to add fiber to their food to aid with digestion. Ask your vet about supplements to alleviate joint pain. Exercise is essential for mature dogs. Take your dog on short and easy walks and monitor breathing and gait to ensure that nothing is wrong. Play with your mature labradoodle and use age-appropriate toys to keep your dog aware. Senior Dogs Older Labradoodles need special accommodations, food, and care. If your dog has sore joints or hip dysplasia, you may need to build a walking ramp so your Labradoodle can join you on your bed or jump in the car. Keep food and water in areas where your Labradoodle can easily reach. It is a good idea to watch for vision impairment. Heated beds soothe achy joints and keep your senior dogs on a non-slip surface. Look for changes in behavior, appetite, weight loss, or gain. Taking care of a senior dog can involve more work than you gave to your Labradoodle in their younger years, but caring for your senior dog gives back the years of unconditional love they gave to you. We hope you learned a lot from this enlightening post about Labradoodle life stages. If you enjoyed reading this, then you might also enjoy these other awesome posts about Labradoodles:.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Poodle owners like you. What should I feed a picky Poodle? What should I not feed my Poodle? Human food! You should also avoid toxic foods for dogs like chocolate, garlic, onions, etc. Do Poodle need a special diet? Small-breed dog food is sometimes recommended by vets, but most small breeds can eat regular dog food without an issue. What is the best homemade food for Poodles? Soft dog foods that require little chewing are the best options for Poodles with no teeth. Should I put my Poodle on a diet plan? Unless your Poodle is overweight, suffering from a specific health condition, or has allergies, they should not be put on a diet. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog requires a new diet, less or more food, or prescription dog food. If your dog needs to lose weight, here are some tips you can try. Sticking with Blue Buffalo, we think that their canned puppy food is a contender for the best dog food for Poodle puppies. What should I look for in a dog food for my Poodle? Look for a dog food that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Avoid dog foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Should I choose wet or dry food for my Poodle? Both wet and dry food can be suitable for Poodles. However, dry food may be better for dental health as it can help scrape off plaque and tartar. Can I feed my Poodle a homemade diet? Yes, you can feed your Poodle a homemade diet, here are some vet-approved recipes. While dog food specifically formulated for Poodles may be beneficial, it is not necessary. What is the best dog food for a Poodle with sensitive stomachs? Look for a dog food that is made with easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Can Poodles eat grain-free dog food? Yes, Poodles can eat grain-free dog food, but it is important to make sure that the food still contains essential nutrients and is not lacking in any areas. How much should I feed my Poodle? The amount of food your Poodle needs depends on their size, age, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your Poodle. Should I choose a dog food that is high in fat? No, it is important to choose a dog food that is balanced and does not contain excessive amounts of fat. Too much fat can lead to obesity and other health problems. Is it necessary to feed my Poodle a dog food with added supplements? Can I feed my Poodle a vegetarian diet? Poodles require meat-based protein in their diet and typically cannot thrive on a vegetarian diet unless carefully prepared. Here are some vegetarian and vegan recipes and store-bought foods. Should I avoid dog foods that contain by-products? While by-products are often viewed negatively, they can provide essential nutrients for dogs but not when cooked in with kibble. By-products, such as chicken liver are healthy for dogs. Consistency is important for their digestive health. What is the best dog food for a senior Poodle? Look for a dog food that is lower in calories and fat, higher in protein, and contains joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Can I feed my Poodle a raw diet? Yes, a raw diet is a great choice. Below are some of the frequently asked questions by Poodle lovers! What is the recommended amount of food for a Poodle? It depends on how active your Poodle is. A very busy poodle will require more food than a sedentary poodle. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs, and elderly dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs. The best way to determine how much food your dog needs is to feed them a diet based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how much food to feed your Poodle. Can my Poodle be fed dry dog food kibble instead of wet food? There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that dry food is better for dogs because it helps keep their teeth clean, while others believe that wet food is better because it contains more nutrients. Ultimately, the best diet for your Poodle will depend on his individual needs and preferences. There are pros and cons to both dry dog food kibble and wet dog food. Ultimately, the best food for your Poodle depends on his specific dietary needs and preferences. It can also be easier to portion control because the kibble can be weighed or measured. Wet dog food is usually more nutritious than dry dog food since it contains more fresh ingredients, and it can be a good choice if your Poodle has difficulty chewing or swallowing. Can poodle puppies eat dry dog food? Yes, dry dog food is safe for poodle puppies. As long as the food is specifically meant for puppies, it will provide them with all the necessary nutrients to grow and develop properly. Make sure to choose a food high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as puppies are naturally carnivores and need more protein than adult dogs. The majority of puppies have little trouble chewing dry dog food. However, you can soften the kibble by adding a little water or wetting it if they do. Until then, continue providing whatever diet is appropriate for his age and weight. If my Poodle has difficulty chewing, what should I do? You can do a few things if your Poodle seems to have trouble chewing. One option is to feed your dog softer foods, like canned food or boiled chicken. You can also purchase a special diet for dogs with dental problems. Finally, you can ask your veterinarian about giving your dog prescription toothpaste or chew toys designed to help clean their teeth. Can my Poodle eat grains? Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, but they also contain gluten which can be hard for some dogs to digest. In addition, dogs that are allergic to grains will often have skin problems, digestive issues, and excessive shedding. Can I feed leftovers to my Poodle? Leftovers can make a nutritious meal for your Poodle if they are not too fatty or high in salt. Be sure to avoid giving them any toxic food to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You can also give them cooked meat, rice, and vegetables. A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. Feeding your poodle leftovers can also be unhealthy, as they may not be getting the balanced diet they need. Instead, try to give your Poodle specifically-made dog food tailored to their nutritional needs. This will help keep them healthy and prevent any weight problems from developing. Do I have any options if my Poodle is a fussy eater? You can do a few things to get your Poodle to eat. One is to try different types of food. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet to get a dog to start eating again. You can also try mixing wet and dry food or warming up the food slightly before serving it. If your Poodle is particularly fussy, you may have to resort to hand-feeding her small meals several times a day until she starts eating on her own again. What foods are toxic to poodles? Yes, there are a few foods that are toxic to poodles. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol pose a threat to poodles. Cavities and gum disease are common problems in dogs, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. In many cases, cavities can be treated with antibiotics or surgery, and gum disease can be treated with a special diet or surgery. Your Poodle may be having trouble chewing because its teeth are not clean. You might also want to try giving your poodle rawhide bones or chew toys to help keep its teeth healthy and clean. What other foods should poodles never eat? Yes, there are other foods that poodles should never eat. Other dangerous foods for poodles include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions. Why not give my Poodle those treats that look like bacon, hot dogs, and pork chops? Poodles are prone to obesity, and these treats are high in fat and calories. Stick to crunchy treats that are low in fat and calories instead. My dog eats the grass in my yard and other plants. How can I prevent this? However, this has yet to be proven. Is fiber necessary for poodles? Yes, poodles need fiber. A high-fiber diet will help keep their bowels regular and help minimize the risk of constipation. Is a low-fat diet for my Poodle appropriate? Dogs have higher fat, and dietary requirements than humans and do not often suffer from the same obesity-related health issues that humans do. A low-fat diet would be dangerous for your Poodle and could lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Feed your dog a balanced diet appropriate for their breed and age, and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Could I feed my Poodle raw foods? There are pros and cons to a raw foods diet for your Poodle. On the one hand, a raw foods diet can be healthier for your dog because it is more natural and closer to what they eat in the wild. However, on the other hand, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to prepare than a traditional kibble diet. If you consider switching your dog to a raw foods diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your pup is getting all of the nutrients they need. A raw foods diet should always include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Is frozen raw food a good option for poodles? Yes, I do recommend frozen raw foods for poodles. I recommend all dogs eat a diet of at least some frozen raw food. Frozen raw food is the healthiest type of diet you can feed your dog. It contains all the nutrients and enzymes your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, feeding your dog frozen raw food can help protect them against many common health problems, including allergies, skin problems, weight gain, diabetes, and cancer. Is it okay to feed eggs to my Poodle? How about eggshells? You can feed eggs to your Poodle, but you should take care not to give them too many eggshells. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, but if your dog eats too many, they could end up with an eggshell calcium overdose. A safe dose for a healthy poodle is about 5 grams of eggshells per day. Poodles, do they need supplements? Yes, Poodles do need supplements, and there are a few are particularly beneficial for joint and bone growth. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular supplements for joint health, and they can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for joint health, as they can help reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D is another important supplement for Poodles, as it helps to maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis. What man-made food can Poodles eat? Raw and cooked carrots are safe for your dog, as are cooked eggs, salmon, and blueberries. However, be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything else that might be harmful to your pup. Conclusion — Final Verdict! Now that you know a little more about the best dog food for Poodles, we hope you feel confident in your ability to choose the right food for your pup. We wish you and your pup all the best in finding the perfect diet! Related Links. We should feed the dog for the weight they ought to be not necessarily their weight, which could result in an obese dog remaining obese. Toy poodle. Toy Poodles are very small dogs that do best when fed two or three smaller meals a day, rather than one large meal. Owners must understand how few calories an adult toy dog needs and resist overfeeding. A Body Condition Score of 4 or 5 out of 9 should always be the aim. Puppy Toy Poodles need frequent feeding and can be at risk of dehydration and hypoglycemia if not fed often enough. When first home, we will need to feed them four times a day. As they mature, this can be cut down according to their needs. Miniature poodle. As with the Toy Poodle, these smaller dogs should be fed a couple of meals a day. While it is up to the owner to decide if they wish to feed wet or dry, vets generally recommend dry food for both Miniature and Toy Poodles, to prevent dental disease. Standard poodle. Standard Poodles are large dogs that can be fed once or twice a day. To aid joint mobility, it is best to try, and keep your Standard Poodle lean; sticking to their daily calorie requirement and not over-feeding them. These can include probiotics to support the gut and essential fatty acids to promote skin and coat health. High-quality, digestible diets are best to ensure optimal health and prevent the development of gastrointestinal issues such as constipation or flatulence. Some individuals may be sensitive to certain ingredients and should be closely monitored after being transitioned on to a new diet. For all, it is advised that they are swapped onto a new food over the course of 5 — 10 days. Recommended Ingredients With such a variety of commercial diets now available, we really are spoiled for choice. Opt for a recipe that contains protein as the first ingredient; whether it be in the form of poultry, red meat or fish. Some diets will also contain offal such as lung and liver; with owners growing to appreciate their nutritional value more and more than our understanding of nutrition develops. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and may come in the form of oats, barley, and corn. Dogs can digest these forms of carbohydrates and will use them as an energy source. Foods to avoid include: Spicy foods which may lead to gastrointestinal upset Fatty or fried foods which can cause pancreatitis Chocolate. While any cocoa containing chocolate is toxic, dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the worst offenders. Grapes, raisins, and sultanas are toxic and can cause acute kidney disease. Sweets and cakes offer no real nutritional value and can lead to obesity. Most cannot tolerate dairy well and it can cause an upset stomach. Whether raw or cooked, bones can fracture teeth, get stuck in the mouth, causing an obstruction and even lacerate the intestine. Food-Related Diseases in Poodles Poodles are considered particularly long-lived among dogs, with some individuals living up to 18 years. However, it is essential to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Your poodle needs consistent exercise, mental stimulation, proper nutrition, and a balanced diet. Several diseases can develop due to improper nutrition of the dog: Obesity. This is the result of feeding more calories than are required. Obesity can not only cause diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, it also leads to a reduced quality of life. Those who are obese can find it difficult to exercise and may quickly become out of breath. Poodles are more likely than other dogs to develop diabetes due to their genes. The pancreas ceases to perform its proper function. Symptoms include an increased appetite, weight loss, excessive thirst, increased urination, and lethargy. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that causes acute abdominal pain, vomiting, and a reduced appetite. While some cases occur for no known reason, others are linked to high-fat diets. Periodontal disease. The wrong diet can quickly lead to plaque build-up and dental disease. If possible, avoid wet food and feed your poodle kibble. This prevents plaque build-up and reduces the incidence of gingivitis. Updated March 4, This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links. Poodle puppies are lively and rambunctious creatures who are ready for anything. The breed has a long history that dates back several centuries. While many people know them for strutting their stuff at a dog show or performing tricks at a circus, most Poodles end up being a lovable member of the family. Good nutrition is crucial for proper development. In a hurry? The first is their size classification. There are three main Poodle varieties. These include Toy, Mini, and Standard. Toy Poodles are the smallest of the bunch, maxing out at about nine pounds as an adult. Standard Poodles, on the other hand, can get quite large. They can weigh as much as 70 pounds. However, most stay around the neighborhood of 60 pounds. All dogs start out small. They experience a significant growth spurt during the puppy stage. Before you know it, your young dog will be approaching their adult size. You need to have a good idea of how big your dog will get to supply them with the right amount of food. With a protein content of 31 percent, your puppy will receive all the amino acids they need to grow strong muscles. To support their changing digestive system, plenty of probiotics are added as well. Buy on Chewy 2. Most of it comes from deboned chicken and chicken meal. The dry food also has plenty of healthy fat to support their growing coat and brain. Healthy doses of calcium and phosphorous are included. These ingredients support bone growth and may be able to help your puppy avoid joint and skeletal issues in the future. Buy on Chewy 3. Chicken, lamb, and salmon all contribute to the high protein content. Because so many animal meat sources are used, your puppy can get a complex profile of amino acids to support their muscles. The kibble is also chock-full of fruits and vegetables. Ingredients like apples, spinach, and blueberries give your puppy a dose of vitamins. This particular formula is ideal for Standard Poodles. Buy on Chewy 4. It supports ocular health, improves their digestive system, strengthens their immune system, and provides plenty of energy. It does this with high-quality ingredients. Chicken and turkey are the main protein sources. Buy on Chewy 5. Chicken meal, turkey meal, and lamb meal are the most prevalent ingredients in the recipe. They make up the 24 percent protein content. The food also has a number of beneficial nutrients. Buy on Chewy nutritional requirements While the Poodle size classifications are vastly different, their nutritional requirements remain the same. The only thing that will be different is the amount of food you provide. During the first year, your dog is developing muscles, strong bones, and healthy organs. Poodle puppies are quite active. This constant activity eats up a lot of energy. Not only that, but their bodies are changing. On average, Poodle puppies will need about 55 calories per pound of body weight. More active puppies may need upwards of 60 calories. On the other side of the spectrum, lazier pups will need about .You can use this general guideline to figure out how much food your puppy will need at various stages of development. If not, you may have to soften the kibble a bit to get them to eat or start with wet food. Compared to their birth weight, Poodles will be surprisingly large for only being a few months of age. Toy Poodles The average weight of a Toy Poodle at three months is about two and a half pounds. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles typically weigh about five pounds at this age and need approximately calories to stay healthy. Standard Poodles Standard Poodles are well on their weight to reaching adulthood at three months. They should already weight about 20 pounds. This equates to over 1, calories every day. You should continue to monitor their growth and adjust their diets as needed. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles almost double their weight by this age. They typically weigh in at just under five pounds, thus requiring about calories. Miniature Poodles By six months old, most Miniature Poodles tip the scales at about 9 pounds. Standard Poodles At around 35 to 39 pounds, Standard Poodles will do well with just over 2, calories of food. One Year of Age Take out the birthday candles and some dog-friendly cake! This is a great time to look back on your previous weigh-ins to see how much your puppy has changed. Your Poodle should be close to their target adult weight. They will continue to grow a bit longer, especially Standard Poodles. However, the changes will be a bit more difficult to see. Toy Poodles While it may not seem like much growth, Toy Poodles have come a long way since birth. Your tiny canine companion should weigh in at about six pounds and require about calories of food each day. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles have an average weight of about 13 pounds when they are one year old. As a result, you should be feeding them just under calories. Standard Poodles At a year old, your Standard Poodle is probably too big to be a lapdog anymore. Most puppies weigh about 50 pounds. They will need between 2, and 2, calories each day. Young Poodles need to eat many times throughout the day. When their suckling off their mothers, puppies typically free feed. Your dog will have the urge to eat a lot as a result. From there, you need to slowly decrease their meal frequency. When you hit the six-month mark, go down to three meals. At one year old, you should try to work your way down to two meals. Your puppy may not like this very much. If they seem to have a problem with hunger throughout the day, you can continue to feed them three meals for another few months. The time to switch your puppy to adult food will depend on a couple of factors. Some dogs take a bit longer to reach their adult weight than others. They need continued support as they make that last push to adulthood. Switching too early can do more harm than good. This is because they are considered adults at about one year old. The other two classifications continue to grow, albeit slowly, until about a year and a half. Their digestive system is still quite sensitive to changes. You can ease the transition by introducing small amounts of adult food to their puppy formula. Dry food and wet food both have their advantages. Starting off with canned food gives your puppy the opportunity to develop stronger muscles before they move onto something tough. It should be noted that wet food is usually less dense than kibble. To avoid weight gain, you should move onto dry kibble when your puppy is about six months old. Here are some great recipes for young Poodle pups. The food comes in a mash form. It can also be mixed in with dry food for an additional kick of flavor. It comes in a convenient tray for mess-free eating. The recipe is comprised of great ingredients like beef and liver. There are also visible vegetables. Over to You Creating an effective diet plan for a growing Poodle puppy is a lot different than doing so for an adult. They need all the fuel they can get. With a bit of extra knowledge and planning, you can provide your dog with a great diet that helps them grow up to a healthy adult. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Sure, there are various flavors and formulas, but it goes much deeper than that. Poodles are relatively healthy when it comes to health conditions that may affect which food you choose. Diseases like diabetes or allergies may influence which product you give your pooch. In these cases, you can get a prescription diet to feed your Poodle. You should only feed your pet the food meant for the species. Breed Size Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They vary in size from 4—70 pounds. However, even within the breed, there are differences in what you should feed your dog. The reason rests with metabolism. Smaller pups mature much faster than large ones. Whereas the Toy Poodle is an adult at 12 months, the Standard Poodle may take up to 16 months to develop fully. That fact affects the food you should give your pooch. Products for small breeds have more calories to support this rapid growth. The ones for large dogs, on the other hand, have less since they mature more slowly. Feeding your Standard Poodle a diet meant for a Toy Poodle may cause him to gain weight and become obese. Many commercial diets will have this information on the label to help you choose the right one. Although certain health issues that Poodles may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Poodles include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Poodles. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Poodles may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. This is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas, causing it to twist on itself. Common signs of bloat in Poodles include a hard, distended, or bloated abdomen, retching, painful abdomen, excessive drooling, pacing, increased heart rate or pulse, and collapse. Hip dysplasia. It can cause pain and difficulty moving. Common symptoms include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, depression, increased water intake, increased urination, sluggishness, jaundice, and clotting problems. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. These are thyroid issues that can affect Poodles. Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, which can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin and coat problems. Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland, which can cause weight loss, increased appetite, and restlessness. This is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures in Poodles. Seizures can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by stress, excitement, or illness. It is more common in puppies and can cause weakness, lethargy, seizures, and coma. Poodles are a dog breed that requires a balanced diet to maintain optimal health and energy levels. If a Poodle is not receiving adequate nutrition from its diet, it may become lethargic and inactive. On the other hand, if a Poodle consumes too much food or a diet that is high in fat, it may become overweight and have difficulty maintaining a high activity level. Poodle owners must feed their dogs a diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. This may involve consulting a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to determine the best diet for their Poodle. In addition to providing proper nutrition, Poodle owners should ensure that their dogs get enough exercise and mental stimulation to maintain a healthy activity level. This can include activities such as daily walks, playtime, and training exercises. Poodle Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for Poodle puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult Poodles. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior Poodles. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Poodle often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your Poodle dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Poodles can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: Poodles can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint support. To support Poodles with hip dysplasia, look for dog food that contains Glucosamine and chondroitin. These ingredients can help promote healthy joint function and reduce inflammation. Hormonal support. Thyroid support. To support Poodles with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, look for dog food that contains omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients that support healthy thyroid function. Limited ingredient diets. For Poodles with epilepsy or other food sensitivities, a limited-ingredient diet may be helpful. Look for dog food that contains a single protein source and limited carbohydrates to help minimize potential triggers. Chapter 2: The Reviews.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Instead, choose the best treat for your German Shepherd to keep them healthy. But if you try to buy the cheapest treats for your puppy, it will show in their attitude and behavior. Or worse… Cause them serious medical problems. This is especially true for growing German Shepherd puppies. No one wants their GSD to get sick from what they feed them! When choosing the best training treats for German Shepherd dogs and puppies: Read the label to make sure your puppy is the right age and size for any treat Ask your vet when in doubt! These healthy options listed below are not only good treats for German Shepherd puppies but are also full of nutrition. While they come in other flavors, my German Shepherd loves peanut butter, so these little treats rank high in her training! They smell so good, you might be tempted to treat yourself! These nugget-shaped peanut butter treats are a great reward for training young German Shepherd puppies. Find great prices! And you already know that your breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. So, why not offer your dog a treat that has the best natural ingredients for healthy joints? A tougher texture is a good chew treat for an adult German Shepherd, but puppies might have trouble With a drier texture, you might find them difficult to tear into smaller pieces for training. Drool from your dog—lots of drool! Every snack should contribute to their overall health and fitness. This is true for adult dogs, not just puppies. Stay away from:. E-mail Share by e-mail Every dog likes the occasional treat! Dog treats come in all shapes, sizes, and ingredients, and can be store-bought or homemade. Your dog will rarely say no to a treat, and if they do it may be a sign that they are unwell. German Shepherds are known to be predisposed to joint issues such as hip dysplasia, so keeping your German Shepherd at a healthy weight is important. Why are we using treats? Entertainment and motivation during a trening session are the most common reasons for giving a treat. Treats can be very motivating during training sessions, particularly because German Shepherds are so smart, they notice if there is no treat and can decide to stop listening. If using treats for training, you want to choose small, low-calorie treats that your dog enjoys eating. Treats can also have health benefits, such as dental chews. Dental treats that are VOHC certified are beneficial in reducing the rate of dental tartar buildup and can be used as part of a healthy diet to maintain good oral hygiene. Entertainment is another common reason for giving a treat, for example, if you need to go out and your dog will be left alone for a few hours, having a chew can keep your dog busy until you return. We strongly suggest against chews such as raw hides or pig ears as whilst cheap, can cause problems such as blockages in the intestines and tummy upsets. A chew toy smothered in peanut butter xylitol free or a thin layer of cream cheese would be a perfect alternative if looking for a homemade chew toy. Homemade vs store bought When making dog treats at home, you can control portion size and use flavors that your dog loves. Buying from the store offers a lot of conveniences, but homemade treats are easy to make and have the added benefit of no artificial preservatives or flavorings. You can control portion size and use flavors that your dog loves. There are many recipes that are easy to follow and free online with a little searching. After freezing your dog will enjoy a snack that lasts for a few hours whilst you are busy doing other things. Lickimats smeared with a layer of frozen yogurt and berries or other ingredients are another great treat your dog can enjoy at home to keep them entertained whilst you are working or out of the home. Store-bought treats If your puppy is still very young, be careful about the size of the treat since they tend to gulp down treats. Food allergies can make your dog quite unwell, so are best avoided if possible. Store-bought treats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and calories. Try and look for lower calorie treats if you give lots of treats to your dog during the day. If your puppy is still very young, be careful about the size of the treat. Young puppies tend to gulp down treats and if the treat is large, it can be a choking hazard. Some of our favorite treats are: Greenies Dental chews. Peanut Butter Smart Sticks are a safe alternative to rawhide chews. They will keep your dog chewing busily for some time and are a tasty flavor. These snacks have around 50 calories per treat so only give occasionally. Stewart Pro Treat Beef liver Freeze dried dog treats. Particularly good if your puppy is already on a raw food diet. Its small bite size and low calorie per treat make this a good option for daily training activities. Dogswell hip and joint Jerky. With beef and chicken as flavor options, this treat is more than just a snack. Summary There are many treat options available for your German Shepherd Puppy. Choosing low-calorie, yet flavorsome treats will encourage your puppy to respond well to training commands. German Shepherds bond highly to their main handler or trainer so treats are often central to creating this strong bond. There will be the perfect dog treat out there for them that they will love! The best treats are low calorie, small in size, and tasty to your puppy- look for meat-based flavors to really get their enthusiasm up. Can German Shepherd puppies have treats? Yes, German Shepherd puppies can have treats as part of a balanced diet to help with training, and socialization and to keep them entertained around the home. Remember to reduce their main meal to account for the treat calories. What are good training treats for German Shepherds? Royal Canin Educ treats are low calorie, vitamin-packed and tasty and will help with training your German Shepherd. What treats do German Shepherds eat? A German Shepherd is not particularly fussy and will eat most treats offered, both store-bought and homemade. The trick is to find the treat your dog is crazy about which can take a little time to work out. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Best healthy treats for training a German Shepherd dog Best healthy treats for training a German Shepherd dog: In this guide we will cover healthy human foods for treats when training German Shepherd dogs, some homemade recipes to make your own healthy treats and finally the best healthy food treats on the market. Best healthy human treats for training a German Shepherd dog: For a quick grab natural treat these dog friendly human foods are packed with nutritional health benefits: Apples: unseeded apple slices make a great natural treat for your German Shepherd. Win win. Salmon: The best part of salmon for dogs is the fatty skin. This is because it is full of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 is great for your German Shepherds all-round health. Omega 3 will also help to make your dogs coat glossy, give them healthier skin which in turn can reduce skin allergies. So slice up some crispy salmon skins for an extra special treat. Eggs: slice some cooked eggs to reward your German Shepherd dog. Enriched with essential vitamins and minerals eggs make a great healthy treat from training your German Shepherd. Eggs are also a great source of easy to digest protein for your dog. Peanut butter: A spoonful of unsalted peanut butter make a great protein rich snack and watching your German Shepherd lick it up from the roof of their mouth is adorable. Pumpkin flesh and cooked pumpkin seeds: Falls seasonal superfood for your German Shepherd pumpkin is full of fibre and loaded with vitamins which promotes shiny coats. Pumpkin also works as a great natural remedy to settle upset stomachs in dogs. Pumpkin flesh can be served both raw and cooked. Seeds are better if you roast them and remove the skins, however in moderation dogs can have raw pumpkin seeds. Do not feed you dog pumpkin skin or a portion of the stem. Although they are not considered toxic, they are really hard for your dog to digest and can cause discomfort or blockages. Veggies: Fresh veg including Carrots, broccoli and green beans are a nutritious low calorie treat for your German Shepherd. Broccoli should only be given in small amounts to prevent upset stomach. Green beans are full of iron and vitamins typically they are considered safe to eat raw but some people recommend cooking first. Popcorn: Plain air popped corn helps to promote digestion and eye health. Popcorn makes a great low calorie treat for your German Shepherd dog but make sure to not give them any un-popped kernels. Chicken: Unseasoned cooked chicken is a great source of protein and fatty omega 6 acids. Omega 6 helps dogs to sustain super shiny coats and healthy skin. Make sure there is no bones before giving to your German Shepherd Dog. To make the two ingredients treats simply choose a flavour of pureed baby food, mix with organic whole wheat flour to form a stiff dough, roll out and either use a pizza cutter to cut it into cubes or if you want to be fancy use a cookie cutter. Place on a parchment lined baking tray and bake for around 15 mins. Frozen yoghurt and peanut butter treats: Another simple 2 ingredient recipe these yoghurt and peanut butter treats are great for a hot day. Simply get some plain, natural yoghurt from the fridge, stir in some peanut butter, pop into ice cube moulds and freeze. With ice cube mould only place a thin layer about 5cms deep to prevent a choke hazard. Alternatively, you can place in the bottom of cupcake papers or paper or plastic cups to create a flat disk-shaped treat. Instead of peanut butter you can also use mashed apple mixed with a little water. Simply mix organic flour, eggs and peanut butter together then add enough water to turn your mixture into a dough, roll it out and use either a cookie cutter or pizza cutter to make it into small bites and bake for 20 minutes. Sweet potato fries: The next time your making some sweet potato fries we recommend using this dog friendly recipe both you and your German shepherd can enjoy. Wash and peel your sweet potato, cut into strips, coat with coconut oil, cinnamon and turmeric, spread out evenly on a baking try and bake until crispy. All you need is oatmeal, a banana and peanut butter. Use a food processor or blender to grind the oats into a powder, mash the banana and peanut butter together and stir in the blended oats to create a dough. Roll out and use a cookie cutter. Place on a parchment lined shallow cooking tin and bake for around 15 minutes. Easy fall cookies: To make these pumpkin cookies your German Shepherd dog will love you need to place pumpkin, peanut butter and eggs into a food processor and blend together. Then gradually stir in whole wheat flour until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead the dough until smooth, roll out and cut into shapes and bake until slightly golden. Chicken and rice muffins: High in protein these chicken and rice muffins your German Shepherd is sure to love. Simply boil brown or wild rice. Once cooked mash the rice to make stodgy. Add diced or shredded chicken, a little flour, chopped parsley and an egg. Mix together until combined. Then spoon into a muffin tin and bake for about 25mins. Until slightly golden on top. Sweet potato and salmon bites: bake a sweet potato. Oil in a pan we use coconut oil stir together flour, eggs and salmon either cooked or tinned, remove any bones once the sweet potato has cooled enough to handle remove the skin and add the skinned potato to the mixture. Spread evenly in the oiled tray and place in the fridge. Once cooled slice into bite sized chunks. Frozen pupsicle pop: For a healthy ice pop for your German Shepherd simply blend bananas, Greek yoghurt, blueberries and beets. Add you your mould and use a carrot as the stick. Perfect for those warm days. Puppy Treat Type You may opt to get more than one type of treat for your puppy—in fact, you may have two or three types around your house. For example, while soft and meaty reward bites work well for training, you may also have a box of dog biscuits for daily treats or a dog chew for keeping your puppy occupied. Crunchy Treats These come in the form of biscuits, in a variety of shapes and sizes. When buying a dog biscuit, check the ingredients list to make sure there are no low-quality ingredients, such as meat by-products, artificial ingredients, or sugar. Puppies usually find them delicious, so they can be used instantly to reinforce good behavior. That said, these chews are not a substitute for tooth brushing—rather, they complement a good oral hygiene routine. Long-lasting Chews Long-lasting chews are great for keeping your puppy occupied for a short time. Long-lasting dog chews can help alleviate anxiety and stress too. Some chews are specially formulated for teething puppies. These tasty meaty treats will help you train your clever German Shepherd, while supplementing their diet with DHA and omega.Whether you opt for soft and tasty meat bites, dog biscuits, chews, or all three—we hope that our reviews help you find the perfect treat for your puppy! With a background in gardening and photography, and interests including hiking and amateur astronomy, her busy schedule means she enjoys the finer aspects of life, such as drinking coffee and snuggling with her cat on a crisp morning while blazing a trail across the keyboard. These high-protein treats are slowly dried in the oven, which retains their nutritional value and allows them to taste super tasty. They can be fed whole, or you can break them into smaller pieces. Top Features: No artificial flavors, preservatives, or animal by-products. Contain glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy bones and joints. Slowly oven-dried for extra nutritional value. No corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers. Best Dental Treats for German Shepherds We all need to look after our teeth, and that includes our dogs! Occasionally I like to give my GSD a dental treat which helps to keep her teeth and gums healthy. Look at her in the above photo waiting patiently and licking her lips! Dentastix is one of the best dental treats for German Shepherds as they are specially designed to clean teeth as your dog chews due to their unique X shape. Buy on Amazon Vets recommend Dentastix, and there are thousands of top reviews on Amazon. You can give these dental treats daily. However, I give my girl one around every two to three days as I like to vary her range of treats. They are not suitable for puppies under four months old. Low in fat and no added sugar. No artificial colors or flavors. Various flavors from original, beef, bacon, and minty fresh. They have a chewy texture and are made with nutritional and easily digestible ingredients. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. These dental chews are vet-approved and score very high on Amazon, where you can find thousands of positive reviews from happy dog owners. They are not suitable for puppies under 6 months old. Top Features: The unique texture cleans down to the gum line to fight plaque and tartar. Freshens bad dog breath. Made with natural ingredients plus vitamins and minerals. Grain-free option and weight management option. Flavors include original, blueberry, and fresh. They love to explore the world with their mouths, and it helps keep their teeth clean and jaws strong. Most German Shepherd owners tend to give their pets a toy to chew rather than an edible treat, but I like to vary it and do both! Here are my preferred chew treats for German Shepherds. They are both highly rated on Amazon, with tons of satisfied customers: Best Bully Sticks Downtown Pet Supply Bully Sticks are a long-lasting chew that makes an excellent alternative to chemically processed rawhide. If the smell gets too much for you, there is an odor-free range! If your German Shepherd is a power chewer, he will really enjoy these as they will keep him entertained for a good while and satisfy his desire to chew. Long-lasting healthy chews. Promotes dental health through chewing. Odor-free variety. Thin, regular, and jumbo widths are available. Choose either the 6-inch or inch length. They are made with just one ingredient — dehydrated codfish skins that have a thin and crispy texture. Buy on Amazon These healthy, chewy treats also help to clean teeth and gums and make a great snack anytime. If your German Shepherd is a gulper, you can easily cut the fish treats using scissors. The Honest Kitchen offers a range of human-grade products that contain quality ingredients. Top Features: Healthy chews with moderate chew time. Natural source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Supports healthy teeth and gums. Made in the USA. Best Calming Treats for German Shepherds German Shepherds are a very affectionate breed and are prone to suffering from separation anxiety, and like other dogs, they may also suffer from other forms of stress. Examples of these could be being exposed to loud noises such as thunder or fireworks, car journeys, or even trips to the vet. In situations like these, you may wish to try calming treats as an alternative to prescribed medication. They contain natural ingredients such as herbs, vitamins, melatonin, tryptophan, or hemp oil. They contain all-natural and organic ingredients to help your German Shepherd feel calm in stressful situations. As humans, we snack in between meals. Treats are the snacks your dog will eat between meals. Making sure your dog has healthy and delicious treats to eat for snacks is important for their overall health. This article will narrow down the best treats for German Shepherds. Things to consider when buying dog treats? How healthy are they? We all want our dogs to be healthy and happy right? Of course, so make sure you are selecting a healthy dog treat for your GSD. Healthy dog treats for German Shepherds are typically made of natural ingredients and contain a good amount of protein. Just like you want to avoid dog food with a bunch of ingredients that are artificial, the same goes for dog treats. Purpose for treating Are these treats for training or just for an occasional snack around the house between meals? Think about the when and why you give treats to your dog, and then buy treats to fit that purpose. Consider what type of foods your dog loves when selecting their treat. For example, my girl really loves peanut butter, so I know any treat with peanut butter will be a hit! These treats are soft and small in size which is exactly what you want for training your new puppy, or even an older dog. Zukes treats are healthy and natural with real meat being the first and main ingredient. There are no artificial flavors and these treats are made in the USA. As an added bonus there are six different flavors to choose from: Chicken, duck, peanut butter, pork, rabbit and salmon. What I Love:.

The Cocker Spaniel may also experience hip and elbow dysplasia like the Golden Retriever. This breed has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Keep in mind that the following information is based on its parent breeds. These are all predictions that vary from case to case depending on genetic makeup. In terms of physical appearance, the Cocker Spaniel comes in a variety of coat colors, so the forever puppy may not always be golden. It could be a mix of blue, black, brown, and white. The ideal attributes a Golden Cocker Retriever should have is a medium-length coat, floppy ears, and a smaller build than the Golden Retriever. We can predict the height of the Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel mix will range from 20 to 24 inches 51 — 61 cm. As we mentioned above its weight will range from 30 to 45 pounds 13 — 20 kg. The health concerns of a Golden Cocker Retriever are also based on its parents. Both the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel are capable of experiencing seizures associated with epilepsy and hip and elbow dysplasia. On the Cocker Spaniel side, however, you have more serious illnesses to worry about like glaucoma and cancerous tumors. On the bright side, both parent breeds have a good life expectancy, so your Golden Cocker Retriever will live a long and happy life of at least 10 years! Want to see how this mix grows up? For owners who really want a teacup-sized Golden Cocker Retriever, there are some toy ones on the market. And then you mix it once again with Cocker Spaniel to get an even smaller dog. A dog with dwarfism may look cute and small but it causes them a lot of pain throughout their entire lives. The height of a standard Goldendoodle reaches 20 inches 50 cm. The weight ranges from 50 — 90 pounds 22 — 40 kg. Additionally, the coat of a Goldendoodle will be much curlier than the Golden Cocker Retriever thanks to its Poodle parent breed. Before buying one, consider if a Golden Cocker Retriever is your best match in the long run. How will this dog fit into your daily schedule and hobbies? Does This Mix Shed? Both parent breeds have long-haired coats that invite moderate to heavy shedding throughout the year. Do I Need A Backyard? Yes, yes, yes, yes, YES. Purebred Golden Retrievers sometimes need two sessions. A fenced backyard or a playpen is also essential to keep your Golden Cocker Retriever from wandering off. Both parent breeds have a long history of being hunting dogs with a strong prey-drive. If your Golden Cocker Retriever sees or smells a small animal in the distance, it will run as quickly as it can to track it down. Dogs are just fine. For example, any sign of stubbornness or independence can lead to harder training. Start training as early as possible as puppies are easier to handle than adults. The temperament of a Golden Cocker Retriever should be: Happy. One of the distinct characteristics of the hunting Golden Retriever is having a darker and shorter coat. The average size of full-grown Goldens has a height of 21 to 24 inches 53 to 61 cm and a weight of 55 to 65 pounds 25 to 29 kg. Golden Retrievers are not only friendly but also intelligent. The doll-eyed Cocker Spaniel Cockers are often seen in dog shows with their luscious hair and big doggy eyes giving everyone a taste of their sweet expression. With a height of only .Aside from being mischievous and using their dreamy eyes to get away with anything, Cocker Spaniels are active, alert, and intelligent. Just like Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels have two distinct lines: the show line and the field line. The first Comfort Retriever the original name of this mix originated in .And not one puppy is the same as its littermates. Ideally, the aim attributes of the Cocker Spaniel-Golden Retriever cross is a medium-length coat, floppy ears, and a smaller build than Goldies. They have deep-set eyes that are slightly almond-shaped that can either be shades of brown, green, blue, or particolored. Their ears are quite longer than Goldens, and they touch the cheeks. Some of them can have tufts of hair between their toes. Unpredictability is a package deal when you get a crossbreed as a canine friend. So, if you prefer knowing what your pup will exactly turn out, this may not be the breed for you. While this is true for some of them, not every dog will grow or stay the same. Source: honey. For weight, it can be as low as 25 pounds 11 kg or as heavy as 70 pounds 32 kg. Most of them will fall in the middle of those numbers, which is around 30 to 45 pounds 14 to 20 kg. They may be little, but the exercise requirement of the Golden Cocker makes them suitable for homes with a big yard or somewhere in the country. They can be okay with apartments, too. How about a toy or mini version of the Golden Cocker Retriever? We mentioned the miniature Golden Retriever, right? Another way to produce a smaller Golden Retriever-Cocker Spaniel crossbreed is unnatural and unacceptable. Did you know that some fidos that look so small and really cute are lab-made? They suffer from a skeletal defect called dwarfism. Coat and colors of the Cocker Spaniel-Golden Retriever cross Your four-legged friend can have a very long fur like the Cocker, or quite short like the Goldie. They have a water-resistant hair, with the undercoat helping them keep warm. This one parent is seen in black, white, tan and white, black and tan, red, blue, chocolate, parti-color, roan, and merle. This designer dog is not hypoallergenic. Cocker Retriever Spaniels are moderate to heavy shedders throughout the year. So, with all that variation, the appeal with this crossbreed is a unique mystery pup. And you got it right! These are traits that will make them a great family pet, even those with children! Not only that, but they also interact well with other fellow dogs and can serve as an excellent watchdog. And just like its folks, this fido is not known for being aggressive. Other than that, socialization and training is the answer. During training, always keep in mind that this pooch is sensitive, so be assertive without doing anything negative as your dog will get hurt easily. Just be prepared for an energetic pup and train her as early as possible. The one thing that would probably need your time is grooming, as this fido is high maintenance when it comes to their hair. Get ready for grooming With long, luscious coats, you might have been ready for this. They have ears, chest hair, and trousers that can easily become tangled and matted. Do they have special dietary needs? Dry kibbles, wet food, and raw diet — each type of dog food have their own advantage and disadvantages. The factors that you have to consider when figuring out how much to feed your dog is her age, size, activity level, and on some occasion, health. What most owners do is look at the back of the dog food bag for the serving suggestion. There is a better way than feeding your canine friend based on the number of cups. Some may say that the Golden Retriever-Cocker Spaniel cross need about 2 cups of kibbles. That is not enough, though. Make sure you set aside 45 to 60 minutes of your day to take your Cocker Retriever out for a walk, a jog, or a hike. There are times that they would need two sessions of exercise to avoid pent up energy. Once the sun is out, treat your doggo for undertaking activities such as trekking that will make her satisfied. Not just because of the change of scenery and new scents, but also you took the time to bond with her. As they say, a tired dog is a happy dog. You also have to consider the generations of inbreeding that makes crossbreeds vulnerable to a few illnesses. Both parent breeds can suffer from seizures that are associated with hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as epilepsy. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to hypothyroidism and mast cell tumors. Cocker Spaniels have more health concerns like glaucoma, cataracts, seborrhea skin disease , liver disease, and congestive heart failure. These are for precautions as your Dakota Sport Retriever may or may not inherit these conditions. Not the females, though! You should also only purchase puppies from breeders who always prioritize the health welfare of their breeding stock and their litters. This can be challenging, but with proper documentation and medical records of the dogs, plus a good pedigree line, you can take those as good signs. For life expectancy, both the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel live good and long lives. So, we can expect the same thing for their mixed-breed descendant with a general lifespan of at least ten years. He or she should also allow you to visit the dogs and their home, as well as encourage you to observe and get to know the parents and their puppies. Responsible breeders also have a history of vet visits, genetic tests, and health guarantee. Dakota Sport Retrievers for adoption or rescue Choosing to adopt a dog is a noble act. You might be interested in giving an older fur angel, and other Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel mix another chance to be loved and have a new home. Comparing their size, the Cogol can be a little taller, as Goldendoodles have a maximum height of 20 inches 50 cm and can weigh 50 to 90 pounds 22 to 40 kg. If there are more Cocker genes in the Cogol mix, then they can be smaller than a Goldendoodle. This Poodle mix has a curlier coat and has a better chance of being hypoallergenic. It makes the Goldie-Poodle cross a better option for those who have allergies or would prefer minimal fur around their house. If you have no problem with dander and enjoy being on the move, the Cogol is an excellent family dog that is trainable, loving, happy, and polite. Share with us your opinion about the Golden Cocker Retriever. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Golden Retrievers are well known for enjoying life with an active family. This larger breed dog will need plenty of exercise minimum of 2 hours daily to burn off all of their high energy. Did you know? As long as your puppy is socialised well then, they have no problems fitting in with families. If treated with respect by their human family, they will return it in spades by soothing and calming the people around them. In fact, because of they typically have great amounts of empathy and unconditional love — they are often used as therapy dogs. What do Golden Retrievers look like? They are classified as a large breed dog, recorded between inches in height. They are also prone to becoming overweight, which is why regular exercise is important for this breed. Because of their trainability and great sense of smell. They are frequently chosen as search and rescue dogs or guide dogs for the visually impaired. Frequent grooming is advised to remove excess fur and keep their long coats knot free. Although some people do trim their coats right back. You should always check with a professional groomer before doing so as this can affect their temperature regulation. Labrador Retriever Vs Golden Retriever They are often confused with their distant cousins the Labrador Retriever , although there are a few key differences. Coat differences A Labrador will have short and wiry coats. Compared to the Golden Retriever breed that is described as having medium- long coats. Most people believe they were originally bred in by Lord Tweedmouth of Scotland. The nature of a Golden Retriever Described as being calm natured and extremely intelligent they love to be kept occupied. Amongst dogs, their problem-solving skills are exceptional. Training a Golden Retriever They are intelligent and love being kept occupied so typically do well with training. Although have been known to chew if left alone for too long a time. Helping your puppy with separation anxiety can help. Overall, they are a perfect breed for active families looking for their forever furry friend. Read 7 comments Sometimes we wish our big dogs could go back to being puppies again because of how adorable they were not that being big changes that! Golden Cocker Retriever This bundle of adorableness is called a Golden Cocker Retriever and it will absolutely forever stay a puppy! Shih Tzu The Shih Tzu is the only dog breed that somehow manages to look very wise yet very young and adorable! They may be small, but they are very feisty and playful! Pomeranians Pomeranians are quite possibly the sweetest little dogs ever! And a good dog groomer can turn them into mini teddy bears. According to the AKC , they are very outgoing and can comfortably live both in the city and the suburbs. These goofy cuties have been bringing joy to people for centuries. Their big sparkly eyes and wrinkles are what makes them different than the other dogs but in a good way! Beagles Beagles are yet another dog breed that stays little forever, except for their ears. French Bulldog French Bulldogs are the mini-version of regular bulldogs, except they still have big ears which is their trademark feature! Maltese Maltese doggies are the epitome of elegance and charm, mostly thanks to their long white fur coat! Of course, they stay small forever and are an excellent companion for anyone. Chihuahua Chihuahuas may look small and harmless, but they definitely possess a big-dog attitude and feistiness that more than makes up for their small size! Their biggest asset, however, is that beautiful, irresistible smile! Toy Fox Terrier Toy Fox Terriers have all the best dog qualities: lovability, charisma, friendliness, and tenacity. These little dogs will never let you have a boring day again! Pomsky Pomskys are our favorite mixed breed! This mix between a pomeranian and a husky is a guaranteed recipe for beauty! Do you have any pups that stay that way forever? We encourage you to share them with us because we all need them in our lives! Life Span Did You Know? A Forever Puppy is a mixed dog breed that maintains a puppy-like look and size throughout its life. The Forever Puppies from these parent breed combinations are also sometimes referred to as a Cavapoochon or Cava-poo-chon. The dog breeds generally used as parents for the Forever Puppy are all people-oriented. They love their families and tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by accidental falls or rough play, so playtime with young children should be closely supervised. In general, Forever Puppies have a sweet disposition and playful nature. They will thrive on human attention and affection and will love spending time with people, especially their families. Due to the general affability of the parent breeds, they also usually make good candidates for therapy dogs. This mixed dog breed is moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size and are a great fit for apartment living. They will also do well in most climates, but can be sensitive to heat and may need some extra help staying warm while out on walks in the cold. Some potential health issues to be aware of in a Forever Puppy are similar to that of other small dog breeds. These potential health conditions include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, epilepsy, and patellar luxation. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see any health clearances can help allay potential health concerns. Due to the potential parent breeds in the mix, the Forever Puppy is likely to be highly trainable and a good fit for owners of any experience level. They should be highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please, which means they will pick up on things quickly as long as training stays positive and reward-based. This dog breed likely will not respond well to harsh tones or corrections. Because of their small size, there is a possibility that housebreaking will be difficult. So, crate training can be a good idea during the training phase and be sure to bring plenty of patience. You can also use dental hygiene chews and a specially-formulated dental diet to help supplement your efforts. A Forever Puppy will tend to have a moderate energy level. A few walks a day plus some playtime will be plenty of activity for this pup. They may also adjust their energy to your lifestyle, so they might be up for more activity if you are more active. Depending on the parent breeds, a Forever Puppy usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Forever Puppy will generally live years. Forever Puppies for Sale.

We have answers. Am I limited to Bakersfield German Shepherd puppies for sale? Looking for your dream German Shepherd, Bakersfield? If you're looking for a dog that matches your particular lifestyle, and don't want to compromise on quality or find one that's been bred specifically for the local market, Uptown Puppies is the perfect choice. We work with breeders and businesses throughout the United States who are experts at transporting dogs securely and getting them to major airports so that you can pickup your new pet. How do you screen breeders with German Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, California? German Shepherd puppies for sale? Bakersfield has the best! We are a network of ethical, humane breeders who care about our puppies and customers. We screen breeders who want to join our network, and we only allow those with a track record of excellent breeding practices, caring for their puppies, and customer service. Are German Shepherds trainable for novice owners? What about the best German Shepherd puppies Bakersfield has to offer? Whether German Shepherds are easy to train or best left to professionals is up for debate. The breed is extremely intelligent and obedient, so they're sure to make great family members. German Shepherds love to serve and will be perfect companions for those who have the time and patience to train them well. We at What Families Want understand that many families are looking for a quality puppy, but they don't want to be scammed or find a puppy mill. That's why we created our puppy finder network. What is a puppy mill? Do they have cheap Bakersfield German Shepherds for sale? In fact, these breeding facilities often have a negative impact on both the dogs and the humans who work there. Puppies in mills typically come from unethical breeding practices that can cause them to carry undetected genetic issues. Are German Shepherds for sale in Bakersfield, California good for apartments? German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the world, but they need proper exercise and room to roam in order to be happy. If you don't have time for your German Shepherd to run around, they may become destructive and anti-social. Are there any German Shepherd puppies for sale near Bakersfield? Don't miss your chance to get a German Shepherd puppy! The only problem is that puppies listed on Uptown Puppies are always taken quickly. New and upcoming litters can be scooped up within hours. If you see the Shepherd of your dreams, act fast before someone else does! Are German Shepherd puppies near Bakersfield right for me? Well, that depends on what you want! Do you want a loyal and intelligent dog who will stand by your side through thick and thin? The German Shepherd is a protective pooch, but they're also extremely friendly towards their family. If that's what you're looking for, join the club- there's a reason Shepherds are so popular! Are German Shepherds good family dogs? German Shepherds can be quite intimidating, but they are also very loving towards their family. They are also quite protective of their home and will stand up to anyone who threatens it. Proper socialization from a young age is key to avoid these issues. Where do German Shepherds come from? Are they only available from German Shepherd breeders near Bakersfield? The German Shepherd originated in the United Kingdom in the late s. The most intelligent, responsive and obedient local shepherd dogs in the UK were bred to create what is now known as the Welsh Corgi. This breed was responsible for herding cattle and protecting flocks from predators. Are German Shepherds smart? German Shepherds are some of the smartest dogs around. They're usually considered to be one of the smartest breeds, according to a study that ranked intelligence based on each breed's ability to learn and obey commands. Because they're so smart, proper training is essential if you want your German Shepherd to stay under your control. Without regular reinforcement and discipline, he may quickly outsmart you and take over the household. How fast can German Shepherds run? Where can I find the best German Shepherd for sale Bakersfield has to offer? German Shepherds can sprint quickly, reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. That's pretty fast! Keep in mind that GSDs can run for hours if they need to, so be aware if you're out walking and see one running off quickly. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Size Color. Australian Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Next litter coming end of .We are proud to say our family has been involved with breeding and raising Australian Shepherds since .Transportation to Bakersfield, CA available. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. 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Bakersfield: Australian Shepherd Breeders Below is a sample search of our Australian Shepherd breeders with puppies for sale. Search for an Entlebucher puppy or dog. Make sure to do research on th MORE. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Miniature Australian Shepherds for Sale in Bakersfield. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale near Bakersfield, …. Lovely Australian shepherd available now california, bakersfield. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale. Puppies will come with 1st shot at 8 weeks old, akc microchip, deworming at 2,4,6. If you are unable to find your Australian Shepherd puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Australian Shepherd Dogs for. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA from trusted. We have livestock and train our dogs to herd which they do anyway it is in their bloodline to herd. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale near Bakersfield. Italian Spinone Puppies for Sale. With herding dog DNA, they need lots of exercise. Browse these Pointer rescues and shelters below. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA from …. If you are unable to find your Australian Shepherd puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Australian Shepherd Dogs for Adoption. You've reached the best place to find Mini Aussies for adoption. Australian Shepherd Dogs for Adoption near Bakersfield, …. My name is Diane Lucas and I am the proud owner and breeder of Blue. Australian Shepherd For Sale Bakersfield. Find Australian Shepherd puppies for sale. They will come with there first shot and will be wormed. Find Australian Shepherd puppies for sale The Australian Shepherd is actually an all-American dog, bred to work on ranches out west. Anything Look…Weird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the latest version of Chrome or Safari.

With their keen intelligence, loveable natures, and gorgeous hypoallergenic coats, Goldendoodles are growing more and more popular each day. The good news: this makes it easier not to mention cheaper than ever before to get your hands on a puppy. The bad news: there are plenty of scammers looking to take advantage of your lack of experience. The two main types of scam in the world of dog breeding are false advertisements and puppy mills. The first will advertise Goldendoodle pups usually with cute photographs. The second have puppies but prioritize profit over the health of their animals. Puppy mills overbreed their dogs and raise the pups in appalling conditions. So, who knows what condition your pup will be in when you receive them. However, organizations have sprung up that are committed to promoting the responsible breeding of these popular pets. To be registered with these guys, a facility has to jump through all kinds of testing and health hoops specific to Goldendoodles. If a breeder carries this certification, you can be sure they have healthy dogs. A reputable facility will be very upfront about all that they do and why. They will usually offer to show you the test results so you can see for yourselves or run them by an expert of your own choosing. For some idea of potential Goldendoodle problems, check out our article on Doodle Health Issues and Diseases. Look For a Health Guarantee A health guarantee is usually built right into the purchase agreement when you are buying a puppy. It generally says something along the lines of if you find something wrong with the puppy as a result of their breeding or early care, you can return them and receive a refund. This guarantee tells you that the breeder has faith in the quality of their dogs. You can feel more confident buying from them. A puppy mill would not make this offer. Seek Recommendations From a Trusted Source When it comes to Doodles, as with everything else, contacts are everything. If you learned about Goldendoodles from a fellow Doodle fanatic, then see if they have any tips to offer about the best place to get a puppy. Getting in touch with a trusted facility is always a good idea. Expert sites such as this one are another great place to start in terms of information and recommendations. Keep scrolling to see our best Goldendoodle breeders in Texas. Read Online Reviews When purchasing any product, many people check out reviews. In the same way, these can be invaluable for learning more about breeding facilities and what to expect when buying a Goldendoodle puppy. For even more guidance with finding the best place to purchase a puppy, take a look at our article, How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. The parent dogs all family pets are fully health and genetics tested. Details of the testing they do are provided right on the very first page of their website. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Puppies are started on puppy culture methods, Avidog protocols, and early neurological stimulation ENS when they are just three days of age. This can have massive benefits for their physical and mental health as well as their behavior. It also supports their early socialization and training and helps make their transition to their new home an easier one. On top of all that, the puppies are raised inside their home to ensure the transition to their new families is the easiest it possibly can be. The breeder offers a month health guarantee. Check out our beautiful puppies on our website. Fill Out an Application We want to be confident our puppies are going to a good home. Come Visit Our Home Come out to our 11 acre property south of DFW and get to know us and your new puppy before you make a final decision. No deposit required. We searched for quite some time and we are so happy to have found them! They were easy to work with, super knowledgeable and made this such a great experience for our family! Highly recommended! We are in love with our little girl. The communication and process were easy, quick, and straightforward. We are over the moon with the puppy we brought home. He is the perfect addition to our little family. Beyond being handsome and adorable our little guy is so smart and funny. He made our life so much better! The process of picking one out and picking her up was a great experience. The staff at Southland was very professional and helpful during the process. The puppy has a great temperament and has been very receptive to the crate training and potty training. She is very social and is great around people and other animals! I would highly recommend Southland to all my friends and family, great customer service! Shipping is available anywhere in the U. Additional fees apply. Allison DD Puppy Parent For anyone questioning if Dacus is the breeder for you, from first hand experience, it was the best decision I ever made and the best experience I could have ever hope for!! I got two puppies from Dacus Doodles this past spring and Tammy and Carli are still supporting us along the way!!! If welcoming a doodle into your home is the right decision for your family, Dacus Doodles is the one to choose!!! Puppy was born July , picked up at 8 weeks. I was beyond impressed with the level of care and education we gained during the 8 weeks puppies were with the breeder. They breed for temperament and take the job very seriously. Puppies are mindfully desensitized and given early exposures to sound, touch and smell. Now our dog has been home for 6 months and the support has not stopped! The family group has been a wonderful place to share and keep up with littermates and other litter owners. If you are interested in finding just the right dog for your family I cannot suggest Dacus Doodles more. I did extensive research before choosing Tammy and Carli and their wonderful Goldendoodles. The anticipation and the involvement I had before the birth of my FiFi and the constant interaction and updates once she came into the world is beyond words. DD set ME up for success. FiFi is now home with us and I am absolutely in love with this sweet girl.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our home-based, family-owned Australian Labradoodle breeding program is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. We are committed to breeding authentic, multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with bloodlines originating from the two breeding research centers in Australia, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park. Multigen Australian Labradoodles are consistently non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly, loving, calm, intuitive and at times quite comical. All of these qualities make them wonderful family companions as well as excellent therapy and service dogs. Raising puppies is a lot of fun but it is also a lot of work!! As a breeder, it is our responsibility to make the most of our puppy's critical growth periods and introduce them to as many new sights, sounds, smells and situations as possible. At birth, days 3 to 16 with Bio Sensor Stimulation, and right through to the day you take your new fur baby home we are handling and socializing our puppies. Ultimately, it is our goal is to provide you with a healthy, well socialized, intelligent, lovable, easily trained doodle that will be a joyful addition to your family for many years to come. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near South Chicago Illinois and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. As trusted Labradoodle breeders, we take great care to give every visitor the best labradoodle puppies , including the best health characteristics, a gorgeous appearance, and an adoring personality. Australian Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs that are easy to train and easy to care for, providing companionship and love without a lot of work. This breed is intelligent, loyal and friendly, providing protection to their owners and family without excessive barking or aggression. Australian Labradoodle puppies exhibit the best characteristics of their parent breeds, the Labrador and the Poodle. Both breeds are famously intelligent, athletic and loyal, with quick learning attributes and mobility that makes them ideal service dogs. With the docile temperament of the Poodle and the athleticism and energy of the Labrador, the Australian Labradoodle is the perfect mix. As a loyal, friendly, gentle and low-upkeep breed, Australian Labradoodle puppies are great with children, and they are also an ideal breed for older couples. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are bred from our own prized pets, carefully selected to eliminate health defects and enhance the best qualities of the breed. From the day they are born, we treat our Australian Labradoodles like a member of the family until they become a permanent part of yours. Take a look at the Labradoodle Puppies for sale online and select your new pet. Contact us for more information and have your new puppy personally delivered to your home in Chicago. Puppy Spotlight. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL. An Australian Labradoodle is a designer dog specifically bred to be the ultimate family companion. How much are Labradoodles for sale Chicago? Will you only connect me with local Labradoodle breeders Chicago? One of the great things about using our network is that our team will connect you with great Labradoodle breeders and businesses around the country, not just in Chicago. How do you screen Labradoodle breeders in Chicago? Bottom line? Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles Chicago? We made Uptown Puppies to help unite great breeders and businesses with great families—and to help you find a puppy that suits you perfectly. What is a puppy mill for Labradoodle puppies Chicago? Puppy mills are factories for dogs. At mills, dog health and safety go out the window—here, profits are king. When you buy a puppy from a mill, your dog is facing higher risks of genetic disease, behavioral issues, expensive veterinary intervention, and even a shorter life expectancy compared to other dogs. Are there any Labradoodle puppies in Chicago available now? What is the MatchMaker process like for Labradoodle Chicago? In our opinion and according to tons of our customers MatchMaker is the easiest, fastest and most fun way to find a puppy online. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

It is important for senior dogs to have a feeding routine, that the food bowl remain in the same area of the house so that they know where to find it, and that they have a rug or yoga mat to stand on while eating to avoid slipping or having trouble standing on hard floors. If your senior dog has gone longer than 24 hours without eating, they should see their veterinarian for a thorough physical examination and possible diagnostics to investigate the cause of their loss of appetite. Is Your Dog a Puppy? Small breed puppies, especially, are at a high risk of hypoglycemia low blood sugar and should be watched closely for signs of lethargy or collapse if they are not eating. If this happens, they should be treated on an emergency basis. Some puppies may not like larger kibble, as it can be hard for their puppy teeth to chew, especially if they are just transitioning to solid food. This can be remedied by mixing in water and letting it soak to create more of a porridge consistency, or the kibble can be mixed with canned food as well. If your puppy still will not eat, they should be seen right away by a veterinarian. If they are also lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, they should be seen on an emergency basis. A newly adopted dog can take days or weeks to settle into their new home. It is important to ensure that they are given a quiet place to eat, away from other pets or children that may interrupt them. However, if they are lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, or go more than 48 hours without eating anything, they should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Did Anything Change in Your Household? Some dogs may be sensitive enough that a change in their environment may cause inappetence. Examples include a new addition to the family whether a new pet or a new baby , construction, having people over, or even a change in the location of the food and water bowls. Some dogs with separation anxiety even expect their loved one to be in the room while they eat, and will stop eating if their human leaves the room. While this is not necessarily a health concern, it is a sign that your dog may have severe anxiety that needs to be addressed. Calming chews such as Composure or Solliquin may be helpful, and calming pheromone collars or diffusers such as Adaptil can be beneficial as well. However, if you are concerned that your dog may have severe separation anxiety, consider consulting with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist for help. Did You Switch Dog Foods? This also allows your dog to get used to the new food over time, rather than making a sudden switch. Is Your Dog Pregnant or in Heat? Early in pregnancy , your dog may have a reduced or absent appetite. If your dog is in the middle or late part of her gestation, she may eat less because her stomach has less room to expand due to the presence of puppies, but she should make up for this by eating a smaller amount more frequently. Regardless of what point of gestation your dog is in, if she has not eaten in over 24 hours, your veterinarian should be called right away to ensure that everything is okay. Dogs in heat may also have a decreased appetite, which is considered normal. However, if she goes longer than 48 hours without eating anything, she should be checked by her veterinarian. If she is lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea, or drinking and urinating more than usual, she should be seen by her veterinarian right away, as this could indicate an infection in the uterus known as pyometra. Is Your Dog Diabetic? If your dog is diabetic and will not eat, this could be an indication that something is seriously wrong. If your veterinarian advised you to give a half dose of insulin if your dog skips one meal, do so, but alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog skips another meal. If your diabetic dog skips a meal, is lethargic, nonresponsive, or vomiting or having diarrhea, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as this could be an indication of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, both of which are life-threatening if not treated right away. It is not unusual for your dog to skip a meal or two after a surgery. You may try tempting your dog to eat with a spoonful of canned food or boneless, skinless, boiled chicken on top of their kibble. Better yet, ask your veterinarian for a few cans of a prescription gastrointestinal diet to feed for the first few days after surgery. These foods are highly palatable, are easily digestible, and can help counteract some of the gastrointestinal upset that can happen after surgery and anesthesia. If your dog had oral or facial surgery, your veterinarian may recommend feeding only canned food for two or more weeks. This also means that your dog should not receive hard treats or chew on hard toys until they are declared healed at their recheck appointment. If your dog is refusing to eat the prescribed canned food, reach out to your veterinarian in case there are any post-operative complications. Heat canned food for a few seconds in the microwave make sure to take it out of the metal can and put it into a microwave-safe bowl. Canned food can become scorching hot quickly, so feel the food first to avoid any burned tongues. Try mixing some plain, boneless, skinless boiled chicken and rice with their kibble to encourage them to eat. Add a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora or Advita on top of the food. Not only can this make the food more palatable, but it can also help any inflamed or irritated intestine heal by rebalancing a healthy gastrointestinal flora. If you have tried these tricks and your dog continues to refuse his food, he should be seen by his veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Unless explicitly prescribed by your veterinarian, your dog should not be given any over-the-counter gastrointestinal medications like Imodium or Pepto Bismol , as these could cause serious side effects or even interact with medications that your veterinarian may want to give. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before attempting to treat symptoms at home. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? But, there are several reasons why your labrador puppy might not be eating. Sometimes you need to worry. While, at times, it is okay to ignore it and give them some time. I will try to cover all the possible reasons why your Labrador is not eating. Why my labrador puppy is not eating? There can be many possible reasons behind it. Illness If your puppy is showing a lack of physical activity. Then, your puppy might be sick. If your puppy is in this state for a few days make sure you take them to the vet to get checked out. It can be a sign of cancer, kidney failure, liver problem, etc. Stress Your puppy can be under stress. There might be certain external factors affecting your puppy. Try keeping their environment light, and if possible play, along with them. This way, they might feel much better and get back to their daily routine. Along with it, some intestinal roundworms can affect the appetite of your puppy. Vets advise that you should not walk your young puppy outside until they have been vaccinated since puppies are so vulnerable to distemper and parvo. Dental Disease Maybe your puppy is having some issues with his teeth. It might be a broken or loose tooth, that is making it painful for your puppy to eat. If you find something like this, then you need to get a checkup done. Try changing the food and see if they eat it. Lab not eating but drinking water? It is another thing that many owners have experienced. So, is it something to worry about? He is not eating anything except drinking water. Give him a few days and monitor his symptoms. If symptoms get worse over time, if he stops drinking water, develops a fever, or starts vomiting then you should call your vet and talk about it. Dog not eating food but eating treats? It is again a common thing, and it is referred to as partial anorexia. It occurs when a dog is not feeling well. A dog will eat what is unique to it rather than eating anything else, such as treats, chicken, etc. It can sometimes become an issue but is less dangerous as compared to complete anorexia. Try these steps and check if your pet is back to its daily routine or not. So, slowly try to change the menu and add something new to it. And notice what he or she likes to eat. You can use different brands, different proteins, and much more. Limit the treat If your dog is not eating anything. Then try limiting their treats. This way, they will understand that the food given is the only meal for them. After that, they might get back to their daily routine. Separation anxiety All the dogs are not the same, and some dogs have separation anxiety. So, try to be with them while they are eating. It is just a matter of a few minutes. Then you can leave them, and get back to your work. Praise them While you are putting down your food, right in front of their nose, try to praise them. They are sensitive, and maybe praising them can change their mood and start eating back. Hand feeding Some pets also prefer hand-feeding rather than getting their food in the bowl. So, try to feed your dog with your hand. Make sure to not make this a habit. These were some of the tips you can use to get your puppy back to normal eating. After trying these tips, if your dog is not eating anything please make sure to talk to your vet immediately to run some tests. Should I worry if my puppy is not eating? You do not have to be worried every time your puppy is not eating. Try to follow all the steps given above. It might go on for 2 or 3 days. If you feel at any point this is a medical issue, please contact your vet immediately. Pay proper attention to the signs and if you find any unusual symptoms, then contact your vet immediately. How to stop this from happening again? Is there any way to prevent this from happening again in the future? Yes, there is. Add food that is good for its health. Never give them trash or spoiled food. It can eventually lead to an upset stomach. Signs your puppy needs to see a vet Besides the long-term risks of puppies not eating as they should, there are some immediate risks to take into account when your puppy refuses to eat. This is particularly true for toy breeds that are prone to hypoglycemia a drop in blood sugar , which can lead to serious complications. Puppies are also more susceptible to dehydration than older dogs. This seems especially the case if their main diet is canned food, as pups eating the "wetter" canned food tend to drink less. Here is a list of the more common reasons. Finicky Eater Being a picky eater isn't all that common in puppies. After all, your puppy has two qualities that should make them happy to eat just about anything: they're 1 a dog and 2 a puppy! However, in some cases, puppies can become picky eaters and have certain preferences in their eating habits. To be on the safe side, you always want to have your puppy's veterinarian evaluate them to be sure they are healthy if they show signs of not wanting to eat. If your puppy is given a clean bill of health by their veterinarian, consider whether they are happy to eat other things besides their meals, such as healthy dog treats or dog-safe fruit. If they are happily eating those things, it may be that they are getting a bit picky with their regular food. You have a couple of options here: Change their food. You certainly wouldn't want to be forced to eat something you don't like, day after day. Sometimes it's as easy as switching to a different texture or hardness of food. I don't advise changing the protein source chicken, beef, etc. Changing protein sources for your dog can make it more challenging in the future should your pup develop food sensitivities or allergies. This is one reason when pets do develop food allergies, they have to be fed veterinary hypoallergenic diets which tend to be much more expensive instead of limited ingredient or new protein diets. Stick with the same protein even if you're switching or adding canned food to their meals. And be sure to change your puppy's food gradually to avoid stomach upset. Make their food more enticing. This may be a food topper, fish oil supplement although don't overdo it, and remember that it is a fish protein in case of allergy concerns , or some wet food. Even just wetting the food with warm water and letting it sit for a few minutes can make it more enticing read: smelly for your puppy. Do this before you offer the food to your puppy. You don't want to build a habit of them refusing dry food and learning that doing so means you'll add something yummy. They're always learning! The goal here is to just get calories in. See below for some options on food toppers to try. If a puppy is truly being picky — again, this is rare — the usual recommendations from canine behavior consultants are to put the food down for 15 to 30 minutes and then put it away if uneaten after that time. It doesn't reappear again until their next mealtime. HOWEVER, because it's extremely important for a puppy to get enough calories from a balanced diet, this isn't recommended for young puppies or toy breeds that are prone to hypoglycemia low blood sugar. Be sure to rule out other causes for their lack of appetite first, and then speak with your veterinarian about whether they are old enough to try this method. Maybe you brought them home very recently. If you have children, maybe they have just gone back to school, and the puppy is experiencing separation anxiety. Or maybe the kids are spending more time at home. Keep an eye open for potential sources of stress for your pup. Well, the same can hold true for puppies. If you think this might be the reason, check out some ways to help keep your pup cool. Teething or Pain Just like babies become fussy about eating when they are teething, so can puppies. The discomfort and soreness they experience in their mouth can make them reluctant to eat their food, especially if it is dry food. The pain could be from an injury — after all, puppies can be quite accident-prone! Pups can also experience inflammation of their pancreas pancreatitis or growing pains from their developing bones. They could even have something stuck in their mouth — like a splinter or piece of wood from chewing on a stick — or a broken tooth from a bad chew toy. Check for any external or obvious sources of pain. See below for some teething toy suggestions and alternatives to dry food. Some snacks and treats, whether stolen by your puppy or given freely by you, can cause digestive upset as well as obesity and begging later in life. They may even cause your puppy to reject the healthier and balanced dog foods they should be eating! You can greatly decrease the chance of your pup sneaking their own treats by puppy-proofing your home and teaching them not to counter surf. If your pup is having diarrhea for more than 12 hours, they are at risk for dehydration. The risk for dehydration increases if your puppy is also vomiting. For those that are severely dehydrated, the skin will remain tented. This is a critical situation for puppies, and medical attention is needed immediately. Connect now Rates may differ for those residing outside the U. You'll have access to a vet for 7 days. Many puppies have roundworms or other parasites in their gut before you get them home. This is a big part of the reason why we vets usually deworm puppies at their puppy visits, recommend fecal poop testing, and vaccinate to prevent Parvo and other devastating diseases. For example, puppies with liver shunts will have stunted growth, poor muscle development, abnormal behavior such as head pressing, seizures, circling, etc. They may also have vomiting, diarrhea, or abnormal appetites. Acute kidney failure due to a toxin or infection can cause decreased appetite, abnormal urination, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, etc. Respiratory Infection One of the more common respiratory infections, kennel cough, can be mild and self-resolving, but it can also spread and reach the lungs. For some, this can be another reason not to want to eat. The best way to protect your puppy from kennel cough and perhaps even canine influenza, a. Therefore missing a meal or two can be problematic and be a cause for concern. Always err on the side of caution and call your veterinarian for advice in these situations. Add about 1 part water to 3 parts dry food. You can even warm it in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds to enhance the smell. Be sure it is not too hot before giving it to your puppy. Add in a little bit of canned food. Some puppies like it cold, some room temperature, and some prefer it warmed. Note: Choosing canned food is best done with your veterinarian's recommendation, but you can start by looking to see if the dry food you feed your pup is available in canned form. And stick with the same protein source. If the kibble is chicken, find a chicken canned food. However, these diets and the options below all require a veterinary prescription. Veterinary-formulated diets are meant to treat, cure, or alleviate certain medical conditions and if they are used incorrectly or for the wrong condition, they could cause other health issues. These diets should always be used under veterinary supervision. When you need a truly smelly and appetite-stimulating canned food, Royal Canin's Recovery canned food is a good option. If you wanted to switch dry foods — normally you'd want to transition over time — but because it's critical for a puppy to eat, this food is safer to switch suddenly. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric dry canine formula provides complete and balanced nutrition for the growth of puppies and maintenance of adult dogs, including the growth of large breed dogs 70 lbs or more as an adult. You can try adding some peanut butter. If Feeding Canned Food: Try offering it cold, room temperature, or warm to find your pup's preference. Avoid broths containing onions, onion powder, chives, or garlic — as these can cause a breakdown of your pup's red blood cells. Mix Native Pet's Bone Broth powder with water as a pet-safe way to add broth to their food, or sprinkle this broth flavored food topper on their food. Some pups will perk up their appetite when you add a little bit of plain boiled white rice or pasta to their meals, or some boiled and shredded, boneless, skinless, spice-less chicken breast. Add some low-sodium green beans can encourage some puppies to eat. And the added benefit of green beans is they contain essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber. Add some room temperature or warmed chicken or turkey baby food the brands we linked to don't contain onions, which shouldn't be in any food you give your dog. Add some fruit, such as blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, etc. DO NOT give grapes, raisins, or currants since they are toxic. Check out our list of safe and unsafe fruits you can give your dog. You can also try a very small amount of canned pumpkin. While pumpkin has a lot of benefits, sometimes too much of a good thing can create issues. For example, excess fiber from the pumpkin could block the absorption of protein if the puppy consumes more of it than their normal diet. Additionally, too much can cause diarrhea, which would be an additional complication. If you normally feed your pup their food in a bowl, try a different type stainless steel instead of plastic or switch to a plate. Change where you feed your puppy. Feeding them in their crate or puppy playpen is the best idea, which provides some separation from other dogs, cats, and the hustle and bustle of your home. It also has the added bonus of creating a positive association with their crate an essential part of crate training and helping prevent resource guarding issues. You may need to stimulate their appetite by increasing activity before mealtime. Try taking them for a walk or have playtime before you plan to feed them. Try setting a fixed feeding schedule to see if they will eat once hungry. Providing puppy-safe teething toys can give them some relief. A cooling teething stick can help soothe gum irritation and feel good to gnaw on, and the softer rubber in puppy teething toys is gentler on your puppy's sore mouth. These pheromones mimic the scent of a mother nursing her puppies, encouraging a sense of safety and security. Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser Available at: Provide calming enrichment activities. Licking, chewing, and sniffing are excellent for not only providing mental enrichment but are also self-soothing. Spread some wet food on a licking mat you can even freeze it to make it longer-lasting or to use on hot days and give it to your puppy in their crate or playpen to work on. Make sure to supervise their licking mat session, as these aren't meant as chew toys. You can even blend up their dry food with some water or food topper and then smear it on the licking mat so they can get those much-needed food calories. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat Available at: You can try spreading a bit of your dog's wet food, peanut butter, pureed pumpkin , or low-fat greek yogurt on this mat to provide a soothing enrichment activity. If you feel really desperate, you can attempt hand feeding. Just be warned, this could become a habit your puppy starts to rely on! Start by feeding from your hand and then work towards holding the bowl for them instead of feeding straight from your hand. From there you can build them up to eating from the bowl on the floor while you're further away Don't Over Treat: Be sure that you are not giving too many treats and spoiling meal time. A puppy that is full of yummy treats won't eat their regular meals because they just aren't hungry. There are a couple of options here to help mitigate extra treat calories and to ensure your puppy is getting a complete and balanced diet during intensive training. Use a portion of your dog's regular food as their training treats. Measure out their daily allotment and pull out a portion to use for training exercises. Use regular food treats indoors and for easy cues, saving the high-value training treats for puppy class or practice out and about. Rely on a different type of food as a training treat. For example, if your puppy eats dry food for meals, use air-dried dog food for treats, such as the Ziwi Peak Air-Dried food. The texture is different and many dogs find these types of food more valuable than dry food, but they are still formulated to provide a balanced diet. Speak with your veterinarian about how many calories your puppy should be consuming each day. This will help you balance out the calories they are getting from treats with the amount they are getting from food. Incorporate real-life rewards for your puppy's training. One of the best things you can do when training your puppy is to practice identifying what it is that they want in a particular moment and then using that as a reinforcer and reward for their behavior. It's not always about treats! For instance, they might want your attention, access to the yard, to go for a walk, or to play. By using these real-life rewards from the start with your puppy, only using treats to get better focus or to teach a brand new behavior, you'll be on the right track for fading out food treats later on in life. If your puppy has decreased energy. If your puppy is weak. If your puppy shows signs of hypoglycemia low blood sugar — abnormal gait walking , weakness, seizures, and even coma. If multiple dogs in your home or among your circle of friends are also experiencing decreased appetite. If you know your pup has recently gotten into the trash or dirty laundry. If your puppy got into cleaning agents mop water, freshly cleaned toilet, etc. If any toys are recently missing or destroyed. If they've recently been spending time at the dog park, doggy daycare, or any other group of dogs. If your puppy was just vaccinated. If the whites of their eyes, their gums, or the inside of their ears are yellow or even yellowish. See the photo below as an example of a dog's eye that is yellow. For a growing puppy, a good, well-balanced diet is extremely important. Puppies have unique nutritional requirements and therefore need diets specially formulated for their optimal health and growth. You are laying the foundation of a healthy adult when you properly feed your puppy. A well-balanced puppy diet will help: Achieve a healthy growth rate — not too rapid and not too slow. This is extra important for large and giant breed puppies. Support proper immune functions Prevent the possible occurrence of developing orthopedic issues in the legs and hips When you are looking for the right diet, you want to purchase food with the AAFCO American Association of Feed Control Official certification. This is the organization that supervises the entire pet food industry. An ideal diet will also have completed a feeding trial before it is marketed. You want to feed a diet formulated for puppies based on their size small breed versus large breed formulations are different. A good puppy diet should contain the proper levels of DHA. About the author Dr. Beth Turner Beth Turner is a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience. She graduated from North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine and following graduation, she began her career as an associate veterinarian and worked closely with the local shelter. In she accomplished her dream of practice ownership, designing and building her own clinic. Another meaningful role, while running her clinic, was serving as her county's shelter veterinarian. This gave her the opportunity to help improve the lives of many animals in her community as well as work with the rescue she loved. She sold her practice in to move across the country. But what can you do if your puppy is not eating, or isn't eating enough? Veterinarian Joanna Gale, BVetMed, a Mars Petcare expert, explains how much your puppy should eat and gives the lowdown on why young dogs sometimes skip meals, how to get them to eat, and what signs indicate something is seriously wrong. Exhaustion Puppies go-go-go until they suddenly crash into a sleeping pile of cuteness. Your little one may simply need a nap before he's ready to chow down. As long as your pup digs into his bowl at the next mealtime, it's OK for him to miss one feeding. Distraction If there's a party going on, a new person or pet in the house, or an opportunity to play, your puppy might be too excited to eat. Your four-legged friend should be ready to eat once things settle down again. Stress Has anything changed in your puppy's environment recently? For instance, a new home, pet, or person? If surroundings have changed, that can cause puppies to act differently. It may just be a matter of your puppy adjusting. But make sure feeding times are as calm for your pet as possible and consider placing your puppy's food bowl away from other pets' feeding areas. Vaccinations Just like in people, pets can feel a little blah after getting a shot. Fatigue and reduced appetite are normal side effects of puppy vaccinations , but they shouldn't last longer than a day. Finicky Eater Many pet parents assume that if puppies aren't eating, it's because they don't like the food. But, Gale says, "Most healthy puppies have a good appetite and aren't fussy about their kibble. If you add human food, you're unbalancing the meal that's been carefully formulated for puppies. And your puppy may end up picking out the bits that he likes and leaving the rest. Too Many Snacks It's important that puppies learn good manners with some basic positive reinforcement training. But teaching young pups the do's and don'ts usually requires lots of treats. If your puppy is filling up on treats, he may not be hungry for his normal meal. If that's the case, use pieces of his regular kibble or try buying specific training treats as incentives during training sessions so he gets proper nutrition throughout the day. Illness A complete loss of appetite could mean your puppy is sick, particularly if he is listless or quiet, Gale says. The problem could be anything from a virus to eating something that isn't food hello, little shoe chewer. It's essential for puppies to regularly refuel. Growing bodies need lots of nutrients. So if your puppy is acting like his goofy, normal self but hasn't eaten for a full day, call your vet for advice. Is your puppy also refusing water? Then ring your vet after a half-day of no eating or drinking, Gale recommends. If your puppy becomes inactive or starts to vomit or have diarrhea, it's best to see your vet right away. Diarrhea and vomiting can quickly dehydrate a puppy and could indicate that something is seriously wrong. How to Get a Puppy to Eat Again If your puppy has other symptoms or has missed an entire day of eating, seek veterinary care. Otherwise, there are a few things you can do at home to encourage your pup to eat his next meal. And, make sure mealtimes are calm and relaxed. One other secret to enticing your pup to eat is to mix wet and dry puppy food. It's a change that's still nutritionally balanced and appropriate for puppies. Like human babies, puppies have tiny stomachs and need to eat several small meals a day. As your puppy grows, you can feed larger amounts less frequently. Your veterinarian can recommend a schedule, but Gale says these are the general guidelines: 4 meals a day: Recently weaned puppies of all sizes need four meals a day. This chart helps break down the feeding schedule by your puppy's breed size. Always discuss the best feeding schedule for your puppy with your vet. Puppies need varying amounts of food, depending on the dog's size and breed. For a starting point, check the feeding guides on puppy food packages. But remember, Gale says, that the feeding guides list the total daily amount—so split that amount equally into the number of meals that's right for your puppy's age. For example, if it says your 3-month-old puppy needs 1 cup of food a day, divide that by four. So you would feed your pup a quarter cup of kibble four times a day. Your veterinarian can also help determine if the amount of food needs to be adjusted based on your dog's growth and weight at each well-visit. Young dogs need the extra nutrients they get in puppy food for proper growth. So if your furry pal is refusing to eat, it's best to check in with your vet especially if your pup has skipped several meals. Once your adorable fur ball is chowing down again, you can relax knowing your spunky pup is getting everything a growing dog needs. Was this page helpful? A family member moving out Relationship break-up A change in your routine, such as working shifts or nights Moving his bowl to a different area All of these changes may upset your Labrador and cause him to be disinterested in food. Multiple changes should be done one at a time. If your dog has a stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea , you may need to contact your vet sooner. Your dog may have also eaten something toxic. Take care with foods like grapes or chocolate, and never leave these where your Lab can reach them, as even a tiny amount can be highly poisonous. Medication or Vaccinations Some medications may cause a reduced appetite or nausea. If your Lab is taking a new course of medication and this occurs, you should inform your vet as there may be a more suitable alternative. If your Labrador Retriever has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief. Ensure your Lab is drinking plenty of fresh water and keeping himself hydrated. If your Lab finds it difficult to keep hydrated, you can always try a pet water fountain such as the Petsafe Drinkwell from Amazon. The free-falling stream of water entices your dog to drink and keeps his water constantly clean. Dental Pain When your Labrador suddenly stops eating his kibble, it could be because the food is causing him some pain in his mouth. It might result from gum disease, an abscess, or a damaged tooth. Choose a more fragrant food. Try choosing a better quality food that has a powerful meaty smell. Add some warm water or unsalted chicken or beef broth. Add a topping. You can add wet food or other toppings such as plain yogurt, egg, chicken, other meats, or fish. I often do this to mix things up for my dog. Try hand-feeding, as your Lab might need a little TLC! Exercise your dog before feeding so that he works up an appetite. However, wait an hour before putting his bowl down which helps prevent bloat GDV. If you have been hand-feeding your Lab, try stopping for a while. Remove his bowl after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. Try keeping his mealtimes separate from yours. Put him in another room at your mealtimes. Do not feed your dog table scraps. Try switching to a ceramic bowl instead. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. They are good, especially if your dog is easily distracted by his environment. This bestseller has almost 75, positive reviews! If your dog senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all. I know initial vet visits can be costly, but so are treatment methods if your Lab is diagnosed with a condition or disease! I would recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place. This will always give you peace of mind and avoid unexpected vet costs. But if your dog has gone more than two days without eating you should call your vet. Labradors should eat at least twice a day at hour intervals to prevent bloat GDV. Puppies under 6 months of age should be fed more often as they need small meals throughout the day. Hopefully, these suggestions will fix the situation and return your Labrador to his everyday eating habits. Related Posts You May Like:. Picky dogs can have their appetite perked up by being offered another food or treat, but unwell dogs will refuse even their favorite meals. Partial anorexia is when a dog eats, but not enough to keep him healthy and fit. There are many reasons why a dog or puppy might go off their food. If a dog eats nothing for a few days or loses his appetite over a period of time this can be a sign of a serious illness. A mild illness, like a tummy upset, could cause him not to eat for a day or two. Problems with his teeth or pain can also cause him to eat less — just like you would. But there are other reasons for a dog to stop eating. Lack of appetite can be caused by changes in the environment or emotional upsets. Not eating can also be a learned response. But first things first. You could have a medical emergency on your hands. First try and see if you can figure out a reason. He tries to, picks at his food but then backs off. Check his body all over for signs of an injury, bloating or any unusual lumps at bumps. Are there any signs of problems with his teeth, mouth or throat. Check his stools and whether he is passing urine. Does he have a fever? If your dog looks really sick — withdrawn, lethargic or unusually quiet, he may be in trouble. He needs to see a vet without delay. Dogs with severe tummy pain may just take to their beds and not make a sound. Bloat or some kind of obstruction from eating trash are possibilities your vet might want to consider. You can also try and offer food again in a few hours. Dogs can go without food for a few days without any adverse effects on their health. There are many reasons why a dogs go off their food besides health problems. Or even if he seems just a little bit reserved. You dog might just not be hungry. Or bored with his food. Someone could have slipped him too many treats. Have you changed food brands? Some dogs are very suspicious of unknown tastes and smells. A new bag of kibble you just opened might be off — check and smell the food. When dogs have emotional upsets it often puts them off their food — just like our children. Have you moved house? Even a simple thing like a new food bowl or changing the place where you feed him can have him turning up his nose at food. Most dogs also stop eating for a day or two when their owners go off on holiday. Are there visitors who might be upsetting him? Or a new pet? But, if he normally has a healthy appetite, keep an eye on him, watch and wait. One of the things you need to watch for is that your dog drinks water. Right away. If your dog is drinking a lot more water than usual and refusing to eat this can also be a sign of an infection or a serious disease. Just like people, dogs get tummy bugs. These minor bugs are not usually serious and most dogs will carry on behaving normally throughout. And they will drink enough water to replace lost fluids. Veterinary advice is to not feed your dog for about 12 hours after a tummy upset. Then start by feeding small amounts of bland food every few hours on the first day. This allows the digestive tract to recover. Increase the amount of food gradually and if it seems that the problem is solved you can start reintroducing normal food. A lack of appetite accompanied by absence of bowel movements, or by straining, may indicate a bowel obstruction. Illness aside, the vast majority of dogs that go off their food are not in the throes of a medical emergency. Many dogs that gradually stop eating do it because they want you to feed them different food. If you ate the same old pellets every day, you might get bored too. Having said that, most kibble fed dogs consume their daily ration with gusto. So why do some dogs stop eating dry food? There may a perfectly good reasons. Older dogs, or those with dental problems or painful jaws may find them hard to chew. Or in winter the food might just be too cold. The solution here is simple — add a bit of warm water. But most often the reason is that someone added something tasty to the kibble at some point. And the dog has really appreciated that addition. It might have been some tasty gravy or some after dinner scraps. So the dog turns his nose up, and what happens next? Which he does! Job done. Or not. No — he is prepared to hold out for the tasty additions he has come to expect. So what do you do? Or paying a small mortgage for fancy food in a pretty pouch? The bad news is, your dog will make you feel like a bit of a heel whilst you go about teaching him not to be a fussy eater. He may also lose a bit of weight which could be a bonus. Which brand should you try? People often ask us which brand of dog food they should try, especially when their dog is refusing several brands. We simply cannot advise you on which brand of food you should feed your dog. That is a matter for you, and possibly your vet, to decide in consultation with your wallet. But be very wary of switching brands on more than one occasion. You can end up in a cycle of constantly switching from one food to another whilst your dog gets more and more picky. Your dog has learned to play you. How long can a dog go without eating Forget about hours. If he has access to water, a fit and well dog can last days without food. And most healthy, well balanced, dogs will give in and eat what is put in front of them within two or three days. So if you want to, you can safely refuse to feed a fit and well dog alternatives, until his hunger gets the better of him and he gives in and eats what you provide. That includes mentally well. Or a dog that has a health or emotional reason for not eating. A dog who has a chronic illness may need a special diet. And those recovering from a health problem could need some coaxing to recover their appetite. So do dogs who are recovering from a serious illness or have pain from recent surgery or conditions like hip dysplasia. This is only partly because they are less active and need less food. Various metabolic changes also take place when the body is under stress. Your vet will probably advise you on what to feed your sick, injured or recovering dog. He is likely to suggest that you tempt your dog with foods that he enjoys. Meals should be nourishing, easy to eat and to digest. You should offer smaller meals more frequently. Dogs find moist, warm food with a strong flavour more appetising. Canned dog foods, meat, fish, and eggs fit the bill. Sense of smell and taste can decline with age, and lower activity levels may mean that the dog simply needs less food. Most older dog gain weight because of inactivity. Those who keep losing weight usually have an underlying long term health problem, problems with their digestion or difficulty in swallowing. So if your older dog it not eating and keeps losing weight you should have him checked out by your vet. When older or chronically ill dogs eat too little over a long time they lose, not only body weight, but also lean mass muscle. Labrador puppies usually have voracious appetites, and will eat pretty much anything with relish. Even if your puppy seems otherwise well, talk to your vet if he stops eating altogether for more than a few hours. Moving home can be very stressful for a dog. He may need a little time to settle in first. His emotional health is the priority here, not your ability to control his diet. That can wait a week or two. But what happens when your dog eats everything besides the food they should? Fussy eaters Your dog that is happily settled in your homes, in great health, and refuses to eat the food allocated for him. He happily scoffs treats, or food of a different make? What about dogs that will only eat if you wet their food? Or pour gravy on it. These are the fussy or picky eaters of the dog world. These are often dogs that are having a great time making their adoring humans run around after them — providing their favorite delicacies — and generally giving their dogs what is very often a completely unbalanced diet. Just read on for the cure. How to cure a fussy eater The cure for a fussy eater is straightforward. Here are the steps: Decide what you want your dog to eat and offer him a small quantity in a bowl. Set a timer for five minutes. When the timer goes off, take the bowl away. Do not feed him any treats whatsoever until his next mealtime. At the next time, offer the dog a small quantity of exactly the same food again. For exactly five minutes. Do not feed him anything else. Make sure he has clean drinking water available at all times. Rinse and repeat Build up quantities as soon as he starts eating again. But you will win this battle.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are currently located in beautiful Georgia, but formerly from Minnesota, the "Land of 10, Lakes. Our dogs and puppies are family raised and play with our children daily. We breed only quality puppies with the hopes to better the breed. Our intention is to breed English Lab puppies that will qualify to be working dogs- therapy dogs, service dogs, hunting companion, etc. All of the litters are registered with the AKC and come to you up-to-date on vaccinations and dewormings. We're licensed and inspected annually. We provide the best care possible, as suggested by our trusted vets. We can also assist you in arranging transportation for your new baby if you do not live within driving distance. Take a look at our Available and Upcoming Litters pages and be sure to call or email with any questions. We offer a Lifetime Warranty! If you would like to visit our home, please read our Visitation Policy. Thank you for giving us a chance at becoming your trusted Labrador Retriever Breeder! Northern Lakes Labradors. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The Labrador Retriever is possibly the most beloved dog around, and these active, friendly pups are one of the most popular family dogs. Get ready to find your new best friend! The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Georgia 1. All puppies sold are on Limited AKC registration and are available at 8 weeks of age with up-to-date vaccinations and worming. Parent dogs are also screened for PRA and exercise induced collapse. Before they ever reach your home, puppies will have been introduced to water, whistles, birds, retrieving, and simulated gunfire. They come microchipped and with current vaccinations and worming, plus will have had their dew claws removed. Your puppy will be sent to its new home with a written warranty, along with a starter kit, including food samples and care instructions. They use the Puppy Culture program, an approach based on science, for training and socialization. They do not breed champagne, silver, or charcoal Labradors. They also do not sell on a first come, first serve basis but instead are dedicated to getting to know potential owners through a two-step process. Puppies are sold on Limited Registration, and there is usually a 6—12 month wait for one. They have a stringent screening process to find the best homes and owners for their puppies. They comply with AKC rules and regulations and offer yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. To become one of the top breeders in the Southeast, they routinely bring in show champion lines. Horizon ships to all major airports. They do not allow visits but are active on social media, so you can check out plenty of pictures and reviews from other buyers. Puppies are exposed to people and sound to get them socialized and introduced to crates to make crate training easier for you. Puppies come with Limited Registration and a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Their puppies are family-raised, so are socialized via plenty of playtime with children and adults. Parent dogs come from strong Champion Pedigrees or are Champions of Conformation, plus are given clearances for health before breeding. Puppies come with AKC registration, proper vaccinations, worming, and have their dew claws removed. This breeder also offers a lifetime guarantee up to 10 years if your pet is kept on the same food they were started on. Plus, if you find yourself unable to keep your pet at any time in the future, they can help you place it in a new home. They were so easy to work with and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a beautiful lab to add to their family! Puppies are screened for genetic and congenital issues and given proper vaccinations, flea and heartworm medication, and intestinal parasite prevention. They typically have puppies available in spring and fall. Related Read:. All Rights Reserved. All of our dogs and Labrador puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club. We breed for a good tempered dog, that will add love and companionship to your family for many years to come. If you're looking for hunting dogs, many of our puppies for sale have gone on to hunt ducks, birds, and deer. Our White Lab puppies can be found all across the United States, including Alaska, as well as across Canada and in other parts of the world. Our family spends countless hours with our yellow and white lab puppies for sale. We spend time with our yellow, chocolate, and white Labs for sale from birth. I feel that socializing is one of the most important aspects of raising a great Labrador retriever puppy. I am with all of our puppies when they are born. They are placed in our Labrador Nursery , and by the time they go home, they are well accustomed to being handled. Here at Damascus Way Labradors, we believe in breeding healthy and happy puppies. We guarantee our white lab puppies, as well as our chocolate, black and yellow lab puppies. Our guarantee is for genetic issues that relate to large breed dogs. Follow this link to see our guarantee. This is our "King of Damascus Way" Although King is no longer with us on earth, we still have many of his offspring. He was one of the most gentle, intelligent Labrador Retrievers that I have ever known. Click on the photo to see more of his offspring.