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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You need the best exercise for German Shepherd puppies to keep them healthy, fit, and, more importantly… Out of mischief! Quite the opposite is true for your fast-growing breed! German Shepherd puppies should stick to only five minutes of continuous, on-leash leisurely walking at a time, based on their age in months. So, an 8-week-old puppy can walk for 10 minutes at a time on a leash, while a 6-month-old can walk on a leash for 30 minutes at a time. However, your puppy can enjoy low-impact, gentle exercises for longer periods of time. You can play games that work on sustained growth multiple times per day safely. Instead, exercise on soft surfaces, for example: Grass Sand Dirt paths or trails Stretching of soft ligaments at too early an age, strains on young, growing joints, and carrying too much weight on their overall framework can and will harm your young puppy. This leads to problems in adulthood, which you could avoid! Remember to watch for: Panting heavily with rapid breath Lagging on their walks for longer than usual Stopping on walks and standing Lying down on their belly or side If your dog is hyperactive and displays excessive chewing and destructive behavior, they may need engaging brain stimulation to help them use their brains to engage in their environments constructively. Ideally, you also need to teach them basic commands and house manners. Start now with basic obedience training to avoid later behavioral issues. Eventually, your active, adult GSD will need at least 2 walks of 45 minutes each source. Other great ways to exercise your German Shepherd puppy include working on their balance, enjoying mental stimulation, and playing gently with toys they love. Until your vet clears your dog as having their bones fully fused this is around 12 to 18 months of age , activity should be cautious and slow-paced. Up to twelve months of age, natural free running is the best way to exercise German Shepherds. With free running, your dog is off-leash and can stop or slow as they wish. Limit and monitor on-leash walks and activity while your German Shepherd is growing. When walking on a leash, allow them to Walk at their own pace Stop and start as they please Sniff around leisurely to explore the grass, flowers, and trees Lay down, roll around, and dig in approved digging places Use a no-pull harness with a design that allows for natural shoulder movement to avoid unnatural gait development. Try this padded no-pull harness on your German Shepherd to avoid any neck injuries to her while she is young. This design also limits pulling and helps teach nice leash walking manners. The handle on the back of the no-pull harness makes it easy to grab your pup to stop them from running into a hazard or just to catch them! Read more helpful information on the benefits and disadvantages of using a harness or a collar to help you choose the right equipment for walking your new puppy. There are plenty of other ideas to try with your new baby German Shepherd. Even better? You can find so many ways to learn what your new German Shepherd puppy likes to play with for their fun and games! Keep reading for a German Shepherd puppy exercise chart and specific, step-by-step fun games to keep your new pup happy and healthy. Exercising puppies heavily too early in life may lead to joint damage. This is especially likely in large breeds with rapidly growing and heavily loaded joints, such as your GSD. High-Impact Activity to Avoid Jumping, especially from couches, furniture, or cars Twisting such as chasing a toy that wildly moves in many directions Exercising over hard or uneven ground especially sidewalks and asphalt Keep exercise short and frequent, as this is more beneficial than long, infrequent periods of activity. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? Making sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is really important for keeping them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can not only keep them in good shape, but it can also help improve their behaviour and well-being. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs , originally bred for working and guarding flocks of sheep, and more recently used by military and police forces. All this means that German Shepherds are among the most high-energy dogs out there. Of course, their exercise needs can vary based on a number of factors including age, fitness level, general health, food intake and more. That said, most German Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing. To get an exercise goal tailored to your dog, simply download the free PitPat app and enter their details. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? This is especially true for this breed since they are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. As a rule of thumb, puppies will need five minutes of formal exercise such as walkies for every month of their age. These walks should be opportunities to explore their environment, work on training and good behaviour outdoors, and socialise with other people and dogs in a controlled manner. How much exercise does a senior German Shepherd need? You can also set your own goals manually in case they have higher or lower exercise needs. What types of exercise are best for German Shepherds? German Shepherds excel at all sorts of exercise and canine sports thanks to their working background. In addition to their daily walks, you could try:. It also helps to improve their mental health by reducing boredom and anxiety. Exercise can also help to prevent behavior problems from developing. There are many different ways that you can exercise your German Shepherd. You can take them for a walk, run or hike. You can also play fetch or Frisbee with them. Whatever you do, make sure that you are having fun too! Dogs are social creatures and love to spend time with their family. The age-appropriate exercise chart for German Shepherds is very important. This is mainly because they will require a different amount of exercise as they grow up and grow old. As German Shepherds age, they will generally need less exercise. This is because their metabolism slows down and they become less active overall. However, every German Shepherd is different and some may still need a good amount of exercise even as they get older. There are a few things to keep in mind when exercising an older German Shepherd. First, start slowly and build up gradually. Older German Shepherds are more likely to get injured if they try to do too much too soon. Second, focus on low-impact activities like walking or swimming. These are easier on the joints than running or jumping. Finally, make sure to give your German Shepherd plenty of breaks. They may need to rest more often than they did when they were younger. They need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy, and they love to play. Here are some of the best exercises for German Shepherds that will meet their exercise needs: 1. Walking your German Shepherd is one of the most important things you can do for them. It provides them with much-needed exercise and helps to keep their energy levels down. Additionally, walking also helps to socialize your dog and gets them used to being around people and other animals. Walking is a great way to start off with any dog, especially high-energy dogs. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the distance as your dog ages. Running Running is also great for high-energy dogs. You can start by running alongside your dog while they walk and gradually increase the speed as they get used to it. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are also one of the most versatile, which is why they make great family pets. However, German Shepherds are also working dogs, and as such, they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Running is a great way to provide your German Shepherd with the exercise they need, and it can be a lot of fun for both you and your dog. Here are a few reasons why running your German Shepherd is important: German Shepherds were originally bred as herding dogs, so they have a lot of energy. This means that they need plenty of exercise to burn off all that energy. Running is a great way to bond with your German Shepherd. Frisbee or fetch Frisbee or fetch is another fun exercise for high-energy dogs. Dogs love to chase after things and this will help them use up some of that energy. Playing fetch or frisbee with your German Shepherd is an excellent way to help them burn off any excess energy they might have. German Shepherds are especially good hiking companions because of their athleticism and obedience. Hiking is a great way to bond with your dog and tire them out at the same time — both of which are important for a healthy relationship. Hiking is another great exercise for high-energy dogs. It is a great way to explore new places and get some exercise at the same time. Just be sure to start off with shorter hikes and work your way up as your dog gets used to it. Hiking with your German Shepherd is also a great way to meet other dog owners and socialize with your pup. If you live in an area with limited trails or parks, hiking can give you access to new places to explore together. And of course, spending time outdoors is always good for your mental health. So next time you and your dog are feeling cooped up, consider heading out for a hike — you might just be surprised at how much you both enjoy it. Share this:. Sep 06, Puppies need exercise to develop healthy bones, muscles and hearts. Exercise goes a long way to help curb anxiety and behavior issues related to boredom. But you may have heard that too much exercise can be harmful. How much exercise is necessary, how much is too much, and what kinds of exercise should you be doing? As a general rule, your puppy knows best. Normal puppy play is okay, and you should never feel as though you should stop your puppy from playing on its own accord. Short walks are also okay, as long as your idea of a short walk isn't 3 miles every morning! Short games of fetch and tug are also okay. Fetch is especially hard on the body because most dogs rapidly accelerate to go after the ball and rapidly decelerate once they get to it, so good throws is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises. Tug is also hard on the body, so minutes is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises as well. Swimming is a great, low-impact exercise. Just make sure your puppy doesn't ingest too much water while swimming. It's also recommended that you not play fetch in the water because dogs can accidentally ingest a lot of water when retrieving toys thrown into bodies of water. Examples of exercises that are too rigorous for puppies are long hikes, running steps, long games of fetch, long walks, running, jogging, weight pull and pulling carts of any kind, wearing vests with anything over a few ounces in it for anything other than a short stroll, flyball, and inappropriate amounts of agility training. All of these things are stressful on soft, growing bones and joints and can result in hip and elbow dysplasia and musculoskeletal deformities, diseases and injuries. As a rule of thumb, don't exceed 5 minutes for each month of the puppy's age of acceptable exercise no more than twice a day. For instance, 15 minutes of exercise twice a day is ideal for a 3-month-old puppy, while 20 minutes twice a day is ideal for a 4-month-old puppy. As a general rule, you can start building up puppies to adult levels of exercise once they turn 9 months of age if they're not expected to grow over 25lbs. By a year they can be exercised as an adult as long as you properly build up their stamina. For medium and large breeds, you can begin to build them up to adult levels of exercise by 15 months and it's safe to exercise them as adults once they turn 18 months old. German Shepherd dogs will naturally travel in a cantering-lope rather than a slow walk. That means that it is imperative that you train your puppy early on how to walk on a leash by your side without pulling. German Shepherds are a powerful breed and are capable of dragging handlers who aren't strong enough to hold them back. Eliminate the possibility of a physical tug of war by relying on solid training instead. Remember, exercise is also great for keeping hip and elbow joints stabilized in German Shepherd Dogs. Many large breeds are known to suffer from hip and elbow problems later in life, but dysplasia seems to unfairly target the German Shepherd. Regular exercise can help to build muscle around joints to protect them. The more muscle, the less stress on the joint. Make sure you keep your puppies lean, well hydrated, and wait an hour or two after your puppy eats before exercise. If you stick by these rules, you lessen the chances of hip and elbow dysplasia, panosteitis, strains, sprains, ligament injuries, bloat, obesity, heart disease and arthritis. Also keep the temperature in mind and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stop exercise if your puppy no longer wants to play or stops to rest and everything should be fine. A daily German Shepherd exercise routine is a must for your high-energy breed! A daily exercise routine not only keeps them fit and healthy but also helps them develop better behavior. And you know how important it is to have a well-mannered dog! This guide has everything you need to start and keep your dog on the right track for a healthy life. So be sure to follow the right guide and advice for your German Shepherd. This information is for German Shepherds over one year of age who are healthy and without any known diseases or medical conditions. If you own an adult German Shepherd, his exercise tolerance will be almost limitless! This breed suits very active families and prefers lots of exercise daily source. They can become bored easily without a suitable daily routine. Exercises for German Shepherds The best exercises for German Shepherds move their bodies in a variety of ways while letting them explore their environment. They love to run, jump, sprint, swim, chase ball toys, fetch, tug, and catch. Walk your German Shepherd daily for the right amount of time. Walks are easy on most German Shepherds and are essential for dogs who spend much of their day indoors. Walking a German Shepherd is the most popular form of exercise for fitness and health. Walk your German Shepherd at least twice for 90 minutes Preferably split into 2 sessions in the morning and evening time Avoid extreme cold and heat to keep both of you safe Vary the surface you walk on to avoid damage to their joints from repetitive motions. Try this no-pull harness to have more control on your walks. The harness has 2 points to clip, in the front and on the back, which puts you in greater control of a wild-walking German Shepherd. The comfortable padding on the harness also helps prevent sore spots on your dog, avoiding any skin issues or fur loss. Walking Exercise Routine Two walks of 45 minutes to one hour each for an adult, healthy German Shepherd are a good start for an exercise routine to meet their needs. Remember, they require gentler exercises to avoid bone and joint damage. Jogging and running to increase endurance. German Shepherds love to run off-leash. Many German Shepherds love to run for fun with their owners. Your breed is built to move long distances over grassy, rocky, hilly terrain, and this shows in their desire for running. Look for softer surfaces to include with your daily exercise routine. Vary your surfaces for maximum health benefits. Also, running and jogging at a set pace is very repetitive on joints. Once your dog is more conditioned you can increase both the time and distance they run with you. Check their paws daily after each run to look for any sores, abrasions, or cuts. Tug-of-war game for strength and power training. German Shepherds are powerful and athletic, and they love to play games with their owners. Include simple strength training exercises at home to increase muscle mass and overall power by playing tug with your German Shepherd daily. And playing tug-of-war goes a long way in helping your Shepherd develop fuller, stronger muscles and more energy and vitality. The knots allow you to grip the rope and maintain control better while the cotton rope provides a soft surface for your German Shepherd to grip. Worried playing tug might make your German Shepherd more aggressive? German Shepherds are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to include at least 10 to 15 minutes of tug before work. Ideally, aim for tug daily if your dog enjoys the exercise. A flirt pole increases endurance. A flirt pole helps exercise your German Shepherd in small spaces. The flirt pole is a gift to worn-out German Shepherd owners! It not only helps your dog improve their basic manners and impulse control, but it also gives them a workout. And in just a few minutes of play! Look for a pole with an enticing lure to excite and interest your dog. How to Use a Flirt Pole with Your German Shepherd Lure your dog to play by dragging the toy on the ground in a large arching half-circle pattern. They chase the lure while you move the toy in different ways to keep them moving. They catch the lure and tug. You give their release or drop command and start the exercise game again. Avoid playing this game by moving the lure in tight circles or making your dog jump high in the air for it. If your dog is slipping frequently, definitely find another surface to play on. It can become damaged if left alone with your GSD or if they are allowed to tug on it excessively. Only use large arches on the ground to avoid sharp turns, especially for puppies. Include doggy squats for healthy hips. Have you heard of doggie squats for exercise? Dog squats help build strength in the large leg muscles. They also can help an aging Shepherd maintain their strength to keep them more mobile and prevent hip issues later in life. And in younger Shepherds that help give your dog the power to take on physical challenges. Dog squats are like human squats. Then, have them stand. Use treats to entice them to keep repeating the action. After two weeks, increase the reps in healthy dogs not puppies or seniors. Have your dog start with 2 sets of 5 squats and add on more squats gradually from there. Use a variety of tasty treats to keep them interested and motivated. You can increase the number of sets and reps as your dog looks more comfortable with the exercise and builds up strength in their hips. Running uphill improves muscle power and cardio health. Gently sloping hills are perfect for an exercise routine for your athletic GSD. Having your dog run uphill gives a great, free strength training workout. As your dog pushes themselves uphill, they must engage their rear leg muscles intensely. This is a great all-over bodybuilding exercise, but especially for their back end. Instead, look for a moderate rolling hill and encourage your dog by calling them up and down to you. This is also a cardio workout for you, too! Repeat this hill run a few times. Then, give your dog rest and repeat. Hill Running with Your German Shepherd Begin by exploring hill running only 2 times a week with plenty of rest in between hill runs to recover. You can gradually increase their routine to 3 to 4 times a week with longer sprints to keep their hearts in tip-top shape. A balancing disc helps improve reflexes and coordination. This is a balancing discs but only wobbles slightly on the top to avoid major falls or tumbles. The goal of balance activity is to enhance body awareness, encourage stable weight shifts, and promote stability and motor function. In a nutshell, balance exercises help teach your dog the way their body moves and how to alter their movements to adjust more easily. This means that your dog is less prone to injuries since their bodies are agile. Balancing discs are a very popular piece of exercise equipment for dogs and fitness professionals. It works by having your dog stand on the disc and using its muscles to stay balanced and stable. These are great for strengthening all muscle groups as a complete body workout. The Instability Challenge On the FitPaws balance disc, there are three basic ways to create a challenge for your dog. Have your dog place one paw on the platform and offer them a treat. Next, ask for both front paws on the board to increase difficulty. Finally, move into harder positions such as all four paws on the disc, sitting on the disk, or even backing up onto the disk with only the back paws. Balancing is also a great way to bond with your dog since they need to trust your commands and the support you provide to them. Balance Disc Exercise Routine 3 to 4 times a week start with an easy pose for your dog on the disc. As they improve their balance, increase the time slowly as you ask them to hold other poses, for example, front paws on disk, back paws on disk, and stepping on and off slowly. Sprints build muscle and cardio fitness. If you want to save your shoulder, try a dog ball launcher with your German Shepherd. And your German Shepherd naturally excels at speed because of its herding history. While excessive and sharp turns on the ground can injure your dog due to the stress of stopping, you can still play a game of catch in moderation. Instead of seeing how far you can throw the ball and having your GSD slide into the ground, aim for shooting the ball in the air a short distance in front to allow your dog to catch the ball and avoid harsh slides. You can launch tennis balls up to 50 feet in the air without exhausting your arms! Short sprints are great for burning away energy that would otherwise become pent-up anxiety in your dog. Sprints also increase lung and heart health, challenge muscles and balance, improve coordination, and make your German Shepherd happy! Instead, 3 to 4 times a week with rests during your sprints so they can catch their breath, aim for them to catch the ball from the air. Looking for the pawfect playtime for your German Shepherd? Weave poles for speed and agility. Your herding dog loves to learn to pole weave! Did you know that the German Shepherd holds the record for completing the fastest weave pole source? Nature made your breed for pole weaving! Weave poles are easy to teach by luring your dog through with a treat. Like this durable, adjustable weave pole that is easy to set up and store away, or can be adjusted quickly for beginners to learn the exercise. Set up your weave poles in your yard. Begin at one end of the weave poles and slowly lure your GSD through the poles. Reinforce their efforts with tasty rewards regularly. Once your German Shepherd has the hand of it, start narrowing the poles gradually together. This gives your dog a harder challenge. Many Shepherds love the weave and will readily enjoy it when you increase the difficulty with more poles. But some dogs, especially puppies, need extra practice to learn the weaving exercise motion. Stick with it for a great way to exercise your German Shepherd in a small area! Start slowly as they gain confidence in their new agility. Increase the challenge by adding in more poles or shortening the distance between poles. Encourage your dog to repeat the weave once they come through the end by running with them to the start of the weave poles and giving your command to weave again. Find a schedule that works for you and stick to an activity routine for the best health benefits for your companion. This means: You keep their mind active and out of trouble using puzzle games for your German Shepherd. You allow them to have a balanced social life where they interact with other dogs and people positively. Without a complete fitness and health program, your dog is likely to experience problems. And the worst part of it all? Some owners forget about starting at the most obvious foundation and neglect to give their German Shepherds the right diet. These negative behaviors can cause issues for your family that disrupts your lives. Start with a solid foundation to keep your German Shepherd healthy to avoid the fallout of poor fitness. Behavior and Mental Problems. For the most part, you let the puppy decide his own activities at this stage. Your puppy, at this tender age, does not need exercise; he needs activity. Indoor play consists of informal activities in which you educate your German Shepherd to avoid dangerous behavior while satisfying his need to be active. At this stage, it is more about mental activity games and basic training as opposed to physical activity. This nifty little toy is excellent for young pups. Here are some low-impact games that are appropriate for a German Shepherd puppy at 8 weeks of age: Puppy the Explorer Let your GSD explore the indoors while keeping a close eye on him. This also presents an excellent opportunity to teach him to follow you. You must do this organically. Wait for him to get in his explorer mode and start walking beside him. Remember not to exceed a period of 10 minutes of exercise in the second month and stop whenever your pup shows signs of being tired. The minute mark is the maximum duration, not the minimum. Initially, your puppy will get tired after a few minutes of walking around and exploring. In each subsequent week, he will be engaged for a few more minutes. You might need to use jazz hands to get his curiosity. Once your pup starts following your palm with his head, simply tap his nose and hug him. At this point, you might be tempted to start moving your arm out of his reach to prolong the game. Follow the Wiggling Toy This is the ideal transition exercise that I would start around the tenth week of indoor play. For this, I recommend the Pacific Pups Rope Toys Set from Amazon, not just because it is budget-friendly but because you can use toys of different sizes as your German Shepherd puppy continues to grow. Once you have him sitting close to you, introduce the rope toy and place it on the floor with your hand holding onto one end. Your job then is to make sure he takes at least four steps before he catches the rope toy. Again, this is a high-engagement, low-impact exercise that builds up the foundation for medium-impact activities later on. Jaw and Bodyweight Exercises Recommended age: 3 — 4 months Maximum duration: minutes per day, twice a day Risk factor: low Things to avoid: sprints Your German Shepherd puppy is now three months old; he is building on his training according to the standard puppy training methods, and you can start to interact with him more physically. Still, his growth plates remain open, and you still need to avoid exercises that strain the joints, especially ones located around long bones like limbs. At the same time, your German Shepherd has more energy and may want to exercise more than is good for him. As a result, your role has shifted. Here, instead of letting your puppy have the toy once he follows it and grabs hold of it, you play a small tug of war with him. If your GSD is used to getting the toy after following it, he may get too defensive when you tug it. I recommended the toy set for this reason precisely. The final thing worth remembering about this game is that you always lose! You place the rope toy on the ground and let your German Shepherd puppy follow it as you move it around. Once he grabs hold of it, you use your arm strength to keep it in place. Do not try to pull it too hard. It is also essential that you gradually move up the tug of war in time and position. Gradually you can move the tug toy slightly above the ground. Throughout this, make sure your dog is on a leash because you do not want to encourage grabbing and dashing. Ultimately, you have to let your puppy win! As soon as you release the toy, he gets to have it for a while. This is also the best stage to train him to release objects on command. Make sure your GSD is on a long leash before you start this activity. Associating running with playtime is risky. A long loose leash allows you to bring him back to you gently. Be prepared to spend a lot of time negotiating with your GSD. I suggest playing tug before this because it builds trust. When you roll the ball on the floor, your puppy will get it. You cannot expect him to bring the toy to you. You simply tug the leash gently and bring him close to you. Then, you hold the ball in place. You should not pull it away. That will only cause your German Shepherd to bite down on it harder. When you have it firmly in place, your dog will try to wrestle it free but will eventually let the ball go. You can encourage this by just talking to him in a reassuring tone and using training treats. As soon as he lets go of the ball, put it on the ground and roll it. As GSDs take pleasure in high-engagement activities, the activity itself becomes a reward. In my experience, this will always be a mixed bag. Some dogs never stop giving pushback at the retrieval stage, while others let go of the ball the moment you extend your arm toward it. Health German Shepherds were bred to be working dogs, accordingly, they are very active and require regular mental and physical stimulation. Without exercise, they are easily bored, and boredom can quickly turn into mischief. Like other working dogs, GSDs with too much-unexpended energy are more likely to destroy things, bark unnecessarily , and pester you for attention. Having a regular exercise routine for your German Shepherd will help prevent boredom. German Shepherds should get at least two sessions of exercise each day. For puppies, the general rule for the duration of each session is 5 minutes per month of age. This means that a 3-month-old pup should only be getting a maximum of two minute sessions of exercise per day while an 8-month-old should be getting a maximum of two minute daily exercise sessions. Please note that these are just general guidelines for the breed. As the pet owner, it would be up to you to observe and stick with what your dog can safely handle. Here are a few activities that can be incorporated into your German Shepherd exercise routine: Visiting the Dog Park Taking your German Shepherd to the dog park is an easy way to give your dog exercise. The dog park gives your GSD the opportunity not just to be around other dogs but also people that understand dogs and, therefore, know how to behave around them. The dog park is definitely a good place to let your pup learn to socialize and make new friends. Just be sure to supervise! There are schools that teach you how to train your own dog and there are others that train your dog directly and then pass on the commands to you. After taking an obedience class, make sure to practice the commands with your German Shepherd in different situations to stimulate both mental and physical discipline. Your German Shepherd is a very intelligent dog and one that is eager to please. Therefore, tricks training could be a rewarding activity for both you and your German Shepherd. Walking Walking is one of the most common ways to exercise your German Shepherd. The behavior exhibited during walks will set the foundation of every other activity you engage in. The first walks with your German Shepherd will probably be difficult. Your GSD may tend to pull and try to lead the way, but with training, walking will become an enjoyable activity that you and your German Shepherd will do on a daily basis. Running When your German Shepherd has been trained on how to walk properly, you can graduate to running as another form of exercise. German Shepherds are very energetic and can run long distances so running can be a good way to expel some of that Shepherd energy. Hiking Hiking is another enjoyable exercise option for you and your German Shepherd because it offers a change in scenery. If your GSD is like mine, it loves to sniff and explore new places. Hiking provides for a slightly more rigorous form of exercise while changing up the scenery from your daily walking routine. Be sure to bring enough water to both you and your dog to stay hydrated. If your GSD is like Allie, toss anything and your dog is likely to either catch it or chase after it. What can sometimes require training is getting your GSD to give the item back to you. Teaching your German Shepherd to play fetch can give both you and your dog endless hours of playtime together and exercise for your GSD. The benefit to fetch is that you can play fetch with your dog almost anywhere; on the beach, at the park, in your yard, or in the house. Remember to praise your dog for playing fetch with you. Rollerblading Rollerblading with your German Shepherd is a fun way of exercising for both you and your dog. Your German Shepherd can run alongside you as you skate, or if you are bolder, you could purchase a pulling harness and allow your GSD to pull you along. Start in a smaller controlled area to make sure you feel comfortable before moving onto the street or more public areas. Special pulling equipment should be used in order to engage in this activity safely. Also available are dog scooters you could use instead of a regular bike. Check out my full article on biking with your German Shepherd to learn more tips. Swimming Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for your German Shepherd because not only is it fun but it is also gentle on his hips and joints. Allie was a little hesitant when she had her first opportunity to swim. However, after she gradually gained confidence and eased into the water, she was hooked and did not want to get out of the water. Stand-up Paddleboarding Once you find that your German Shepherd loves being in the water, you can try some other water sports. Although stand-up paddleboarding will take some training if you live in a warmer climate this form of exercise could be a good one to teach your German Shepherd. Start by keeping the board in a place where your dog would be able to interact with it and be comfortable around it. After the initial curiosity has passed, place a treat on the board; the idea is for your GSD to get on the board to take the treat. Gradually train your GSD with different commands for on and off the board, and then wean your dog off of treats entirely. Once you think your duo is ready, practice first on the shoreline and then gradually move the board on the water. Just keep practicing and give your dog a lot of praise. Before engaging in any water sport, though, be sure to get your dog fitted for a personal floatation device PFD. Having a PFD is critical to making sure your dog is safe no matter what happens. Surfing Dog surfing is a fairly popular water sport. In fact, California hosts at least one competition each year and dogs are judged based on their confidence on the board, the size of the wave, and the length of their ride. Similar to stand-up paddleboard training, you can start training your dog at home and gradually move to the open water. You can teach him to surf along with you and later on, to surf alone. Eventually, you might even try windsurfing! Dock Diving If you find that your German Shepherd loves the water and, more specifically, jumping into the water, your GSD might be perfect for dock diving. Dock diving, also known as dock jumping, is a canine sport wherein dogs jump into a body of water and are judged based on distance from the dock. Whether or not you decide to compete, training for this would be a whole lot of fun and exercise for your dog. Agility Training Dog agility is a popular sport where dogs navigate and race through an obstacle course with the guidance of their handlers. Agility training is an incredibly fun and fulfilling activity as well as good exercise for you and your German Shepherd. Check your local area for training classes or try training on your own if you have access to an agility course or have the space to set one up. If your German Shepherd excels at agility training, you can choose to enter competitions. Whether for fun or for sport, agility training is great mental and physical stimulation for your German Shepherd. Fly Ball Fly ball is a relay race wherein dogs run through hurdles towards a spring-loaded device that releases a tennis ball. Then, they carry the ball back to their handlers on the other side, so the next team member can take his turn. There are typically four dogs in a team and the first team to have all members complete the course and cross the finish line wins the competition. While Fly ball is typically a competitive sport, many dog owners engage in this activity simply as a way to have fun with other dog owners, teach their dogs to socialize and play in a team. Treibball Treibball, also known as ball herding, is a competitive canine sport wherein dogs drive and gather large exercise balls into one specific area as they would if they were herding sheep. Schutzhund Schutzhund started as a way to determine optimal breeding lines and whether specific German Shepherds had the right traits to be suitable for work in various fields including search and rescue, odor detection, and protection. Currently, Schutzhund is comprised of three parts; tracking, obedience and protection. If you own a working line German Shepherd, Schutzhund is a fun sport to consider doing even if just for fun, and it has the added benefit of being a great form of exercise. Tracking games are good for your German Shepherd because it exercises his mind and body but also allows your GSD to practice his scenting ability. All you need to do is hide treats or toys for your dog to find. Gradually increase the difficulty to keep it challenging and make sure you give your dog lots of praise for every successful search. Hide and seek is similar to treat tracking, except you are the prize at the end of the search. Many dog owners express concerns about how tug of war can bring out aggression and a tendency to bite and clench. However, it is actually a great game to play with most dogs, and as long as your GSD can play by your rules it is a great form of exercise. Give your dog a job Since German Shepherds are working dogs another way to exercise your GSD is to give him or her a job. German Shepherds are known to be great police dogs, but they also excel at many other jobs. For example, Allie currently works in search and rescue on the weekends. The training and working helps to provide your dog with of exercise. Other examples of jobs are: therapy dogs, guide dogs, and narcotics detection. There are plenty of activities you can include in your German Shepherd exercise routine. As you engage in more activities with your GSD, your bond will become stronger. As the German Shepherd is such a fast growing breed compared to some other working breeds the opposite is actually more correct. The strain of over exercise on the skeletal make up of a youngster is often irreversible. The stretching of ligaments at too early an age, the strain on young growing joints, or the carrying of too much weight on the overall framework can and will do harm to the young puppy, and lead to problems in adulthood. Consider a young Shepherd in comparison to a 3 — 4 year old human child — certainly not ready to run a marathon even though the spirit may be willing! Should there be any chance that there is already some problem with wear on the joints of the hips and elbows, further advice would be sought as to appropriate exercise. Then, and only then, should you build the dog up to the desired level of fitness you require for whichever field you have chosen — be it show dog, trialing, agility or family companion with the adult animal — complete in growth. Up to twelve months of age, natural free running is the best form of exercise for a youngster, for a young pup, upon tiring, can easily stop when they wish, and not keep on performing because they wish to please and keep up with you! Of course you will wish to lead train and socialise your puppy, but exercise on lead should be no more than that. Maximum time walking the dog at a fast trot of a puppy up to six months of age should be barely five minutes at one instance equivalent to a short stroll around your local block or park and then rest. Puppies need plenty of rest and sleep, just like a young toddler. Certainly they can play and romp in your back yard or in their kennel run, but they will stop when they feel tired, rest and then play again. Over six months — training on lead could extend to ten minutes if you wish, but again, moderation is the best guide, and if a puppy shows an inclination to tire, then stop! Moderation and common sense are the guidelines. Allow your puppy to grow steadily and slowly, and the fun of having a companion with which you can run your kilometres upon adulthood of the dog will not be impaired by the damage you may do,by doing too much, too soon.

Exercise Grooming In the past, the English bulldog was used by foreign immigrants who moved to South America and brought their dogs with them. The breed, however, became close to extinction after the second world war. Some breeders, John D. Johnson, and Alan Scott kept infusing several bulldogs together in the bid to breed the American Bulldog while monitoring its health and capabilities. Today, the American bulldog is completely rid of the fear of being extinct and has become one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. The American bulldog is many sizes larger than the English Bulldog; however, they are quite similar when it comes to their temperament. It is basically a huge, cuddly, lap dog that loves children and is very affectionate. It is brave, confident and extremely loyal to its owners. They can be quite reserved when around strangers as they like to mark their territories. When trained from a young age, the American Bulldog will display an impressive level of intelligence. They are not so friendly with other strange dogs and mostly like to keep to themselves. As earlier stated, the American bulldog is a fun-loving, happy dog that thrives in a family setting. The perfect environment for this breed would be a home with a large backyard that is well fenced-in. Since they are very energetic and must be kept active, it is imperative to their growth that they have ample space to run around during the day. This is crucial for their mental and physical well-being. For dog lovers who live in apartments, the American bulldog might not be the best option for them. This is because there is inadequate space for them and being left alone would adversely affect their mental health. They can also become very irritable and destructive if left alone for long periods as they need constant mental and physical stimulation. The American Bulldog needs about two hours of outdoor exercise on a daily basis. It goes without saying that this breed is not suitable for people who work many hours every day. This dog breed requires basic physical and mental stimulation like jogging, walking, chasing balls, playing fetch, farm work, agility, and basic obedience exercises. Due to the temperament of the American Bulldog, it has to get as much exercise preferably in the outdoors. If its exercise requirements are not consistently met, this dog breed will take out its frustration in your home by chewing apart and basically destroying everything it comes in contact with while running around. The American Bulldog has quite a short coat with a minimized length and this feature makes it easy to groom. Brushing their coats weekly is usually enough when it comes to grooming the American Bulldog as they do not shed a lot. They also need thorough baths weekly or as needed as this will keep the shedding in check. Our American Bulldog puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. American Bulldogs love routine and will adapt to an exercise and grooming routine if the owner enforces it perfectly. As loyal dogs, they love to please their owners but will only obey upon frequent reinforcements. Do American Bulldogs shed a lot? Since they do not have a lot of fur, they do not shed a lot and owners will not have a lot of hair to clean up, unlike many other dog breeds. Why do American Bulldogs have webbed feet? This is mainly due to genetics and is not a cause for concern. Should American Bulldogs be spayed? Many vets advise that American Bulldog owners should ensure their pets are neutered or spayed when it is between four and nine months. How often should American Bulldogs be fed? The American bulldog has a very large appetite in its formative years. They must, therefore, be fed very often about four times daily and in double portions when they are puppies right until they turn four. Are American Bulldogs a food fit in families? The American bulldog will fit right into your family. They love kids and tend to gravitate towards them. Do American Bulldogs have common health problems? A lot of the health problems experienced by American bulldogs are mostly genetic and do not affect the entire breed. These ailments could range from the kidney to thyroid disorders and a lot more. What is the American Bulldogs life expectancy? The American bulldog has an average lifespan ranging from ten to fifteen years. What is the American Bulldogs average size? The average American Bulldog can grow to 58kg for males and 41kg for females. However, it is important that their diets are closely monitored to keep them from getting overweight. How tall do American Bulldogs get? The male American bulldog can grow as tall as 71cm while its female counterpart can grow up to 61cm. If you want a loyal, smart and incredibly active dog, then the American Bulldog is the perfect fit for you. Are you interested in purchasing a American Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We invite you to take a peek at our handsome, friendly, large breed American Bulldogs. We are a a team of private American Bulldog Breeders and our dogs and pups are never kenneled or crated. They are our family pets and roam our house and land. We breed loving American Bulldog Puppies for you and your family to cheerish. Learn More After breeding these amazing creatures for 22 years. We have perfected the best breeding standards that have award us the 1 American Bulldog breeder in America. At We Love American Bulldogs we take a lot of care and pride in helping educate families about the breed that are interested in bringing one of these beautiful creatures into their homes. As any breed the most important thing you can do, is educate yourself about the breed that you are about to bring into to your life. We hope by offering these documents and our YouTube videos, about the breed and about the puppy you are about to consider to be a part of your family, that you will do it with complete awareness of your responsibility to the breed and your puppy. Get a Puppy Our team at "We Love American Bulldogs" feel blessed to care for these wonderful creatures we brought into the world. We worked very hard to make sure the foundation of your puppy is stable, loving and strong. Now we hope with all the information my over 22 years experience with this breed bring me, that we will share with you, that you will stay the course and make sure these pups are the best and true American Bulldog they can be. A Day In The Life

Marie has over 10 years of pet grooming experience specializing in dogs and cats. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 10, times. Poodle hair is curly and thick, meaning it takes a bit of upkeep to keep it in perfect condition. Dogs with thick, curly hair need a lot of brushing, and the right tools and tips can make this process a lot easier. Steps 1 Set your dog on a table or elevated surface. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Grab your dog and place them on a table or a couch so you can reach them easier. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Advertisement 2 Spray a conditioner over their entire coat. Before you start brushing, grab a spray conditioner made specifically for dogs and spray it all over your pup. If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, talk to your vet before using a conditioner spray. Advertisement 4 Hold the hair up with one hand as you brush. You can start brushing your dog anywhere: the head, back, or legs is usually a good place to start. Hold your brush in one hand and gently press their fur up with the other, creating a line in the fur. Use the brush in small strokes to brush downward, making sure to brush through all layers of the fur and not just the topcoat. Gently run it through the section you just brushed. If the fur is fully brushed out, your comb will slide through no problem. However, if your comb gets caught on a knot or tangle, go back in with your pin brush to gently loosen the knot. If it gets caught on a knot, you could hurt your dog by pulling too hard. Advertisement 6 Check for mats in the ears, armpits, and toes. There are a few spots on your dog that are more prone to matting, and may need extra attention. Go to source If your poodle wears clothing or a harness a lot, check carefully for mats in the spots that the material touches their fur. The constant friction can create a lot of matting. As you work your way around your dog, brush them carefully when you get to these sensitive areas. If your dog jerks back or snaps at you, give them a break from brushing for a couple of minutes. Go to source To work systematically, try starting from the back of your dog their tail or hind legs and working your way forward across their body, front legs, and head. Go to source If you come across any mats while bristle brushing, go back in with your pin brush to work them out slowly. Advertisement 10 Visit a groomer for extremely matted fur. Trying to tackle tough mats yourself can be difficult, and you may even accidentally hurt your dog in the process. Advertisement 12 Brush your poodle every day. Try to brush your poodle every day to reduce matting and keep them looking great. While you should brush your poodle every day, you can save bathing them for about once a month. Bathing your dog too often strips their fur of natural oils, which can lead to dry skin and other issues. They are eager and athletic. They are also very easy to train, which makes them a great family dog. But they do require a lot of grooming. Many poodle owners believe that because this breed is mostly low shedding, it is also low maintenance. But this could not be further from the truth. The truth is that poodles do require daily grooming. This includes brushing and combing everyday or at least 3 times a week. Creating a grooming routine with your poodle is vital to keeping their fluffy coat mat-free! Matting is the number one grooming problem that poodle owners encounter. Matted fur does not only look bad, but it is very painful for poodles. If not removed, it can also cause other health issues including discomfort, skin disorder, flea infestation, mites, worms, and other parasites. And severe matting usually leads to a shavedown, right to the skin. Shaving a fluffy poodle is actually very frustrating for an owner because they may not know what they are doing wrong. These are the top three tools that will make grooming so much easier. A High Quality Slicker Brush The slicker brush is the number one dog brush recommended by grooming professionals for poodles. It is actually the type of brush you want to start with when grooming your dog because it will help break up any knots and prevent matting. It is perfect for poodle coat maintenance at home. It is always important to keep the bristles of a slicker brush from bending or getting damaged as this can cause skin irritation, pain, and discomfort. What we love about this brush is that you can brush your poodle, and then just click and clean the brush. The bristles retract when you click so they are kept from being damaged. And your brush can be stored and ready for your next brushing session. The poodle slicker brush is great at working through dense and thick coats because of its larger than standard pins. This slicker brush is gentle and smoothly works its way through your poodle's coat. It is one of the best slicker brushes on the market for poodle owners because it makes coat maintenance much easier. It is great at removing tangles and mats. It's also perfect for achieving that fluffly look effortlessly. The Poodle slicker brush is extremely lightweight, the extra-long handle is ergonomic, and it is very comfortable and effective. A Dematting Tool A double-sided dematting tool is perfect for grooming your poodle when matting is the problem as it is specifically designed to remove mats. The dematting tool can come in very handy before having to take your pup to the groomer for a shavedown. This tool has a 9-rounded-teeth side specifically designed for dematting purposes. We love recommending the Freshly Bailey dematting brush because it has proven to be effective at removing mats while creating a positive grooming experience. The brush is terrific for getting deep into the dog's coat and for working through the stubborn tangles. A Metal Comb A metal comb should be used after you have brushed your poodle thoroughly with the slicker brush. The end result should be the ability to get the comb from the root to the tip of the hair. We like the Dual-length Dog Metal Comb. It has long and short stainless steel teeth to quickly and painlessly remove any remaining tangles or knots. And the anti-slip handle protects your dog from any slippery accidents. The hammock is also a great tool for grooming your poodle's face, legs, and tail. It really does save tons of time and frustration. If you bathe your dog, make sure you brush your dog's hair before the actual bath and use a high quality shampoo and conditioner. We love the 5-in-1 Pet Shampoo , it is great for poodle hair. If you bathe your dog's matted hair without detangling it, it will just get worse! Wait for the fur to dry after the bath, and then brush it again. Do not brush a wet coat. Do not just brush the top of the coat as this does not really do anything to prevent matting. Start at the bottom of the coat, grab a handful of hair, and brush a line of fur away. You should be able to see the skin. As you go, brush the hair down making sure that with each line you get right to the skin. If you have the self-cleaning slicker brush, just click, clean, and store when finished. Otherwise, make sure the bristles are thoroughly cleaned. If the comb gets stuck in any particular section, go back and brush out the tangle with the slicker brush. Use the 9-rounded-teeth side. Hold the matted fur closest to the skin with your fingers before brushing or pulling at the mat. Start at the end of the mat and work your way up. Always do small strokes when combing through a mat. The 10 Best Brushes for Poodles — Reviewed: 1. Hertzko is here to tell you that this is not the case. Made with a flexible head, this brush for Poodles is changing the game. The double-sided head serves several purposes, all of which result in your Poodle looking their best. Whether it be detangling, massaging, or removing loose hair and dirt, this brush serves not only as a styling device but also a cleaning agent. The lack of rigidity mean that it easily contours to the body of your pet. The bent bristles take this design idea one step further by getting deep into the fur, grooming and untangling the undercoat, making the top coat look that much more healthy. This is all done with the comfort of the animal in mind, as the bristles are bent to make sure that there is no scratching or poking. Your dog will also appreciate the massaging qualities of this brush. Nothing beats relaxing while updating your look, right? This brush is also designed to promote good blood flow, effectively making it both stylish and healthy. Some people seem to have issues with this brush in that it requires a great deal of patience. You have to slowly brush through the hair — and your pet will be thankful for you doing so. You have a full 30 days to send it back. Pin Brush Many owners opt for the pin brush due to being one of the best for Poodles. They are pretty gentle while keeping coats nice and glossy. The pin brush is mainly a topcoat brush and is one of the most common brushes for this bread. The wire pin brush also is excellent for static or Poodles with curly hair. It contains lengths for all coats with wider gaps. Since the bristles have a wider opening, the hair follicles are protected. Therefore, the overall damage is minor. The bristles also distribute oils evenly. The rubber bristles wear down over time as well. Despite the cons, there are a lot of positive qualities to the pin brush. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The double sided brush ensures the right comb for any job regardless of if the pet has short, medium or long hair Comfortable grooming. The rounded ends on the pin brush make it easy and comfortable for dogs and cats while the non-slip handle conforms to hand no matter how it is held Easy fast grooming. Easily knock off loose hair and dirt with the bristle side, get a beautiful, groomed coat for dogs or cats with the pin brush side Get rid of mats and loose hairs. Groom the undercoat without scratching the pet's skin with soft yet firm nylon bristles while the rounded pins designed to penetrate deep into the coat Brushing has never been simpler. A double-sided brush will meet all your grooming needs and helps with finishing and combing. All these people can't be wrong about this comfortable and safe brush We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The pin side is convenient for longer coats, while the brush side is excellent for final touches and sensitive skin. This brush includes soft pins and rounded ends and provides flexibility. While the brush is for all coat lengths, it quickly takes off dirt and loose hair and provides a lifetime guarantee. A white Poodle puppy with a squishy plush toy in his mouth 2. Slicker Brush A slicker brush is a must have for Poodles due to the flat and fine bristles. In addition, slicker brushes work well with curlier coats. Now, get knots out quickly without the hassle. Slicker brushes are also extremely easy to use for owners too. Scratching and discomfort are also possible with the slicker brush. Like all brushes, they contain unique purposes. Next, I will break down one of the best slicker brushes. With the self-cleaning slicker brush, there are a lot of pros, and it is excellent for thicker coats. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. All you have to do is press a button to release the hair from the dog brush. The Hertzko removes tangles with ease and is gentle enough for your Poodle. There are also cons to consider, including the price. Another downside is that you have to hold down the button when brushing your Poodle. If not, the bristles retract. Brushing your Poodle every day is now easier than ever and is an excellent investment for your buck! Portrait of little parti Poodle dog with curly fur sitting at the park with her owner 3. Dematting Comb As I said before, matting is a significant issue for Poodles which is also a dangerous health hazard when your dog chews and scratches the area. Luckily, there are special de-matting brushes to help. However, choosing stainless steel is the way to go. The de-matting comb works excellent for poodles with longer hair—the blades massage without scratching to get through the tough tangles. Rakes remove not only unwanted tangles but also dead skin. Built to last through multiple grooming.It also promotes blood circulation and massages the skin for better pet health. It's suitable for all short- and long-haired dogs, cats, and other pets. It combs and massages the coat, preventing snagging and harm. The Poodle Pet Dematting Rake contains 2. The rubber grips are a plus, and the comb is safe for wet or dry hair. The comb works well for longer Poodle coats. However, be careful as it cuts easily, but overall it has many benefits to get rid of matting on your Poodle. The brush is also functional, as it contains a hole for hanging and is excellent for storage. What is the correct Poodle teething age? How many teeth do they lose? Detangling Comb Detangling combs is a necessity for your pup for many reasons. Reasons for tangling include: Low humidity in the air Lack of brushing Not using the right brush Having a skin infection Using certain chemicals, sprays, or chlorine from pools Following these guidelines will help. Frequent brushing with the right brush tool is essential. The comb contains a non-slip rubber handle, making the holding process easier. The detangling comb will take care of matting and, of course, detangle your Poodle. However, the comb may not suit more miniature Poodles. Also, depending on how bad the matting is on your pup, it may not work as well. Finishing Brush After you brush and comb the tangles, you can use a finishing brush to complete your at-home grooming. Use long strokes to remove additional loose hair, dust, and dirt. From top to bottom, you will perfect your Poodles coat effortlessly. The finishing brush is an affordable option that will make your friendly Poodle shine. Andis Pet Comb This finishing comb is a popular choice to double-check and remove leftover tangles or matting. Then, finally, get a fluffy result with the Andis comb! The brush comes in two sizes, suitable for big and small Poodles. In addition, the Andis comb is versatile since you can use it on different coats. The wide comb will detangle effortlessly, whether you need fine or coarse teeth. Work on tiny sections while taking your time. Enjoy this comb whether your Poodle has a very curly coat or is wavy. While using the Andis comb, your Poodle is show dog ready! Additional Brush Tips Every brush has a purpose, and all are great for brushing your Poodle. Fluff, detangle and style with one tool.White on White was a catalyst in the evolution of.Growing out your Poodles coat is vital for a curlier look. Brushing is essential every day, but luckily this article has you covered. Clipped Coat Poodles When it comes to a clipped Poodle, you can create this look in various ways. Typically, a trip to the groomer enhances this look, which a groomer easily achieves. In addition, a clipped coat is easier to maintain at home, which means less brushing. Corded Coat Poodles This style is different since brushing is very different for a corded Poodle. Hair divides into cords, similar to dreadlocks. However, maintenance is more complex. Although, brushing is more accessible and less frequent. Next, when searching for the perfect brush, the following items are great reminders: Look at the materials used, and the overall quality and durability Look for easy to grip handles Double-check, the size of the brush in comparison to your Poodle Overall, these three different coats are essential to picking out the best brush for your Poodle. Luckily, all Poodles contain just one coat layer. A new outlook on brushing with ease awaits you! Using a blunt comb to groom and style a Mini brown Poodle dog Remember, the best brush tool for your Poodle depends on the length, coat, size of your pup, and how often tangling and matting occur. A pin and bristle combination brush are excellent for all Poodles. For another daily option, perhaps the slicker brush suits your needs. The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Brush is a popular yet functional tool with great benefits. If your Poodle needs extra care due to deeper tangles, perhaps the detangling or matting combs are for you. As a result, I hope you feel confident preparing for your next steps. Similar Posts. Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock Size of the Brush The size of the brush that you purchase will depend on the size of your Poodle. The smaller the Poodle, the smaller the brush needs to be. Always double-check the listed measurements. You should also look at any photos that customers have posted, as those should give you a much better idea of the size. These are typically a slicker brush, pin brush, comb, and shedding brush. The slicker brush is probably the most common tool used on Poodles. Image Credit: David Herraez Calzada, Shutterstock The Handle Most brushes tend to have ergonomic rubber handles designed to be comfortable in your hands and prevent slipping. Finally, the Resco Wrap Comb for Dogs is expensive, but it is sturdy and well-made and is an excellent anti-static comb. Hopefully, these reviews of 10 of the best Poodle brushes have brought you closer to finding the perfect brush for your pup. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. We only recommend products we have tested and use on our own dogs. Poodles are intelligent and affectionate, but, boy do they take a lot of grooming! My sister had a Poodle for years, and they often appeared to share the same hairstyle — tangled and unruly! While my sister valiantly tried to tame her own hair with a tangle teaser, she battled to find a brush that could work the same magic on Daisy, her standard Poodle. My sister went through at least five combs, a couple of dematting rakes, and a handful of slicker brushes before she struck gold in the form of a Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush. Suddenly, Daisy was transformed into a big, beautiful ball of white fluff! The ergonomic handle makes it more comfortable for the groomer as well, taking the hand strain out of a long grooming session and making you more willing to commit to a daily pampering ritual. Not only will the Hertzko slicker brush remove dead hair and tangles, but it will also help prevent mats from developing, but boosting circulation, and improving the overall quality of your dog's coat. Check the current price! I think one of the things Daisy appreciated most about this slicker brush was that it massages your dog at the same time as removing tangles and matted hair. Simple, but highly effective. With its two-and-a-half inch blades, this durable brush looks like an instrument of torture - according to Daisy, anyway - but it proved quite pleasurable for her in the end. Top-grade rubber forms the body of the brush, making it perfect for high-maintenance hounds like the Poodle. You can even use it on long-haired rabbits and horses if necessary! Just run the comb through the damp curls and, voila, the individual strands of hair stay separated so the tangles can get a foothold. Two sets of teeth - one long, one short - give this comb its dual-action power that will get rid of the toughest tangles and impossible mats. Even skittish dogs with prior bad experiences at the groomer's seem to find it comfortable. Cheaper than either the rake comb or the slicker brush, this comb is comfortable to use, effective, and offers excellent value for money. At eight inches long and 2. It works well on both the Poodle's curly coat and the softer, wavier hair of the various Doodle breeds. It comes with coarse and fine teeth, both of which will stimulate the hair follicles while removing tangles and debris from the coat. The Andis pet steel comb glides through the coat thanks to its well-spaced teeth, making it comfortable for your Poodle. It is also small enough for you to concentrate on sections of the coat, rather than brushing the entire dog in one go, making it easier to use on dogs that squirm or fidget during the grooming process. How to Pick the Best Brush for a Poodle With so many different brushes and grooming products for Poodles, it can be tricky to figure out which is the best for you. Professional groomers tend to prefer slicker brushes, like the one from Hertzko, because they are easy to clean, versatile, and hard-wearing. They can also make the grooming process more comfortable for a skittish or fidgety dog. The only type of popular dog brush we have not mentioned is the shedding brush, and you will find out why in a minute. Poodles are known as hypoallergenic dogs as they do not shed like most breeds. Another thing about Poodles that sets them apart from other dog breeds is that they only have one coat, rather than two. This means that there is no undercoat to be removed, which is what shedding brushes like the Furminator are designed to do. Using a brush of this kind on your Poodle could result in you pulling her hair out by the roots, causing her discomfort, hair loss, and potential skin disorders. My sister used to brush Daisy daily but, once she started using the Hertzko slicker brush, found she could drop it down to every other day. A good bath once a month gives you the chance to help your dog reset. Bathing stimulates the skin and improves the quality of the coat. Using a detangling shampoo and conditioner can make it easier to brush or comb the coat afterward to ensure your dog is free from the irritation of matted hair. A hypoallergenic shampoo is also highly recommended for Poodles who are prone to skin sensitivities and allergies. You can shave a Poodle early on in their life! Conclusion Keeping your Poodle tangle-free and looking good requires a regular grooming regime and one of the best brushes for Poodles. Affordable yet durable, the Hertzko slicker brush removes mats without hurting your dog and cleans itself with the clip of a button. Poodles that spend a lot of time running through the undergrowth and splashing in the mud will inevitably develop a muddle of mats through their coats. The Poodle Pet dematting fur rake can take on the toughest of tangles with its two-and-a-half-inch blades. Affordable and effective it can be teamed with a finishing comb, like the one from Andis, to leave your Poodle looking ready to enter its first show. She spends all her waking hours with her Australian Cattle Dog, Koala, either walking, horse-riding, running, or just hanging out. Originally from the UK, Nicky been living with dogs for over 40 years and is a passionate dog-owner. With a Masters Degree from the University of London under her belt, Nicky has had a diverse career, training and riding horses, running safari lodges, and hosting volunteers. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders State page page. Other factors that can determine price include the lineage of the dog, whether or not they have been housebroken, and to what extent they have been trained. How to Find A Responsible German Shepherd Breeder in Pennsylvania Finding a reputable German Shepherd breeder in Pennsylvania is extremely important, especially if you are looking for health information on the parents of the dog. This professional organization tracks the lineage of each dog that has been registered to confirm that they are healthy and fit for breeding. Responsible breeders will always have a backup plan in case of an emergency. Finally, be sure to ask about the health guarantees that are offered by the breeder. A good breeder will always stand behind the health of their puppies and will offer a full refund or replacement if something should go wrong. This will give you the chance to meet the puppies and their parents, and see where they are being raised. You should also ask to see the health certificates of both the parents and the puppies. Hopefully, both parents are living on the premises as part of a family. The puppies should be well taken care of and clean. Many breeders will also share important information on raising and training your new puppy with you. A good breeder will encourage you to spend lots of time with each German Shepherd puppy. A good breeder will have no problem giving you the contact information of other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. Many breeders will be happy to set up a meeting so that you can ask them questions about their experience with the breeder. They should be able to tell you about the quality of the puppies, how well they were raised, and if they had any health or temperament problems. This is a great way to get an idea of what you can expect from your new puppy. One of the most important things to ask your Pennsylvania German Shepherd Breeder is who their veterinarian is. A good breeder will have a veterinarian that they use for regular check-ups and health certifications. This will ensure that your puppy receives the best possible care. Reputable breeders also make sure that their puppies are up-to-date on all of their vaccinations and deworming treatments before they leave for their new homes. A good breeder will be happy to share their experience with you and tell you about their breeding practices. They should also be able to tell you about the parents of the puppies and their health certifications. If the breeder seems hesitant or unwilling to share information with you, it may be best to move on. Remember, the most important thing is finding a breeder that you feel comfortable with and can trust. These breeders often have little or no experience with the breed and may be breeding dogs for financial gain rather than to improve the breed. They may also be selling puppies from puppy mills, which is a huge red flag. Puppy mills are large-scale commercial breeding facilities that produce puppies for profit without regard to the health and welfare of the animals. There are plenty of responsible breeders out there who will be happy to help you find the perfect puppy for your family. By If you think you may have found an unethical German Shepherd breeder in Pennsylvania, please report them to the American Kennel Club or your local animal control agency. But a responsible breeder will be upfront about any health issues the puppies may have and will provide you with a health certificate from a veterinarian. They should also offer a guarantee on the health of the puppy. If the puppy develops any major health problems within a certain amount of time, the breeder should be willing to refund your money or provide a replacement puppy. A good breeder will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the health of your puppy. Here are a few tips: Make sure your yard is fenced in and that there are no holes or escape routes. Buy a crate or kennel for the puppy to sleep in and put it in a quiet, safe place in your home. Stock up on food, water dishes, toys, and bedding. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get the puppy checked out and get any necessary vaccinations and deworming treatments. Start socializing your puppy with other people and animals as soon as possible. The more socialized they are, the better behaved they will be as adults. By taking the time to prepare your home and schedule an appointment with your veterinarian, you can ensure that your German Shepherd puppy will have a smooth transition into their new home. German Shepherds make great pets for families with children and other animals. They are loyal, protective, and intelligent dogs that require a lot of exercise and stimulation. Start by setting up a small area with papers or an indoor grass pad for the puppy to go potty on. Then when you take them outside, they should be praised when they potty in the right place. Gradually increase the amount of time between potty breaks so that your puppy can hold it longer and longer until they are able to go all day without having an accident. You should also start taking your German Shepherd Puppy on short leash walks throughout the day so that they can get used to being outside and having more exposure to their surroundings. Training your German Shepherd Puppy will require time and patience, but with a little hard work, you can have a well-behaved dog that is the envy of your neighborhood. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Download an adoption application here Please email the completed application to adoptionteam1. He loves cuddling, having his belly rubbed and giving kisses. He loves to have fun and truly enjoys the company of other dogs. If anyone ever wants to play, she is always game. However, he is just as content cuddling up with his foster family and doggie friends to watch a movie or read a book. He is such a sweet dog, who just wants to be near his people. He loves to go on all kinds of adventures and outings. His confidence and friendly disposition make him the perfect dog to accompany his forever family everywhere. He is housebroken and has never been destructive in the house. His forever family will feel blessed sharing their lives with this wonderful boy. We will reach out to you as soon as your application is processed. Thank you in advance for your patience. All of our dogs start their journey in Memphis, Tennessee where they remain in loving foster families until they are adopted. Once adopted, some pups stay local in Memphis. Many others travel via one of our transport partners to their new forever homes. For our Midwest adopters, we have our own private transport. Breed selection is done in conjunction with two local vets and is not to be considered a guarantee but rather a well-educated decision from well qualified staff. Due to the extremely high volume of inquiries we receive, we ask that you request, complete, and submit an application before asking additional questions. We try very hard to include all pertinent information in our bios. We are excited to help you find your new family member. We want to spend our time saving dogs and assisting those adopters who have taken the time to complete an application. Thank you for understanding. Thank you for choosing rescue!!

They cherish the company of children and are quite comfortable with other animals and pets, especially if you have trained them to grow up together. These dogs are fond of people and love to be around them, and hence, it is tough for them to cope with solitude. They need the company of the owners, and in return, expect their care and attention. With all these graces and goodness, they are perfect for first-time dog owners. This large breed is comfortable living in apartments, provided you help them meet their regular exercise needs. Care Exercise These active dogs have a high level of energy, which they can burn down by sufficient amount of exercise. They also love swimming. But be present with them when they do. Take your GL out for a long brisk walk or a jog at least once a day, for a minimum of 30 min. This should not merely keep it mentally sound and physically fit, but would also strengthen the bond between you and your companion dog. Your dog would also appreciate if you indulge it in some everyday games. If you have an open yard, it can simply roam around freely, which should also add to its fitness activities. But make sure your yard is fenced and safe where you can easily free it from the leash. Grooming Use a rubber curry brush to groom it. If your dog has already started losing hair, we recommend that, you brush it daily. Otherwise, only a weekly session sounds good. This should remove all its dead and loose hairs. To avoid ear infections, do not forget to rinse the inside of their ears when they come out of the water. Also, take care of their teeth by brushing them every week to keep away possible plaque buildups. Because of their hefty built and other associated genetic factors, they are prone to a few issues like elbow and hip dysplasias, PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy , diabetes, cataracts, and certain skin conditions that are especially prevalent amongst yellow labs including allergies, hotspots, dry skin, sun burns etc. Train it to socialize from a very young age, right after adoption. Let them know people and mingle with your children and other pets at home, and practice obedience. This should work. They would grow up to a happy dog without much anxiety and concern of its surroundings. Teach them tricks like retrieving, and enthuse them in agility games like flyball, Frisbee, etc. Do take the lead and let your dog follow you. But insist on sober and gentle training methods. Praise them as they succeed, give them treats, toys and gifts. However, if you choose dry dog foods, do stick to high-quality foods only, and those that are meant for the dogs of its size and energy. But divide the food into two equal meals. Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof , and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador. Continue to 2 of 16 below. Continue to 3 of 16 below. Continue to 4 of 16 below. Continue to 5 of 16 below. Continue to 6 of 16 below. A little training will go a long way. Continue to 7 of 16 below. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones. Continue to 8 of 16 below. Pet Project Updated May 25, 3. Are you in the mood to see some adorable photos of Yellow Labrador dogs? This is a list of some of the cutest Yellow Lab photos. You can add your own special Yellow Labrador Retriever photos to the list, and you can vote for your favorite pictures of Yellow Labrador Retrievers to get them ranked higher on the list. The English Labs are heavier, thicker and blockier. The American Labs are from American bred stock and are tall and lanky. Their double coat is smooth and comes in solid black, yellow or chocolate. Labs love to play in water, and are very good-natured and eager to please. They are large dogs, some reaching to over pounds in size. They are also very energetic and need regular mental and physical exercise to keep them stimulated or they can become high-strung. These large dogs excel at almost everything, and can be used for service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, search and rescue and sledding, among many other activities. Labrador Retrievers have a strong willingness to please and are highly intelligent. These beautiful animals make excellent service dogs and are a top choice for service dog work. The nose and eye rims are black on Yellow Labrador Retrievers, and their coloring is a pretty yellow. Enjoy these cute pictures of adult and baby Yellow Labrador Retrievers, and see what great dogs they can be! You can use these images for various projects such as website design, social media posts, promotional materials, and print materials. Quality and Authenticity of Our Images We understand the importance of quality images and ensure that all stock photos in our library are of high quality. The lab puppy images in our collection are taken by professional photographers, ensuring that each picture captures the adorable nature of lab puppies. We only select the most authentic images, which means your projects will look natural and organic. Tips on Using Lab Puppy Images When using lab puppy images, you want to ensure they support your message and complement your brand. Here are some tips for using lab puppy images effectively: 1. Consider the tone of your project and choose images that match it. Use images that are high quality and will look good on large or small screens. Be mindful of where and how you use the images. They should enhance the message and not distract from it. If you choose to add text to the images, be sure it is legible and complements the image. In conclusion, using lab puppy images in your project can create a warm, friendly, and irresistible atmosphere. With our high-quality stock photos, you're guaranteed to find the perfect image for your project. The tips provided will help ensure that your lab puppy images are used effectively to support your project's message. He can jump very, very high. I have taught him how to sit, lie down, play dead, shake hands, jump, come here and stay. Right now I am teaching him to play piano. He is very pure. I bought him from an Army dog breeder. He thinks he is a guard dog and would hurt even a fly…which he does! He loves to play catch though he still hasn't learnt to give it back and hide and seek! He loves biscuits, chocolates, carrots and ice cream but he hates bananas because they get stuck in his teeth! He's a great puppy. She competes in UKC she has a limited privilege obedience and she also does agility. She does extremely well in both. And one other special thing about her—she only has 3 legs. She gets around wonderfully. Savannah was one of the puppies that were abandoned at an adoption agency's door one morning. A few years ago she sadly lost her right rear leg to an injury, but that has not stopped her tenacious attitude to do whatever pleases her owner. She has a UKC limited privilege number, and competes in obedience. She has many admirable qualities—anywhere from her intent focus or her incredible working attitude. She does agility as well, though in actual competition she is only allowed to do tunnelers with NADAC, because of her missing leg. It is a real shame that she is considered "lame," and is not allowed to do hunting retriever trials, because she would excel in them for sure. She is an excellent retriever, is very soft mouthed and marks very well. She can do what any other dog can do, with only her three legs. She's got true heart and soul, and is extremely intelligent. Photo courtesy of the Reichelts in WA.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More The transition from a puppy coat to an adult one can come as a bit of a shock to novice owners and newbie pet parents. Some breeders choose not to mention it for fear of putting off prospective buyers. However, here we will let you know exactly what to expect when your Goldendoodle puppy coat transition happens. Types of Goldendoodle Coats All dogs are born with a soft, single-layer puppy coat, whether they later go on to develop a double-layered one or not. Goldendoodles are no exception. This smooth, silky hair then gives way to something that can be altogether trickier to manage. Knots, tangles, mats, and shedding can become real problems with some dogs. As you probably know by now, with a mixed breed, there are no certainties. Especially when the parent animals are so different. One half of the Goldendoodle equation, the Golden Retriever, has a dense, straight, water-resistant double coat. In contrast, the other half, the Poodle, has a curly, coarse, low-shedding single one. Depending on which parent they favor, Goldendoodles can inherit either of these coats or a wavy, fleecy, long one that sits somewhere in between the two. This is generally the most common and the most popular of the three. For more on Goldendoodle coats and the right tools for caring for them, take a look at The Absolute Best Brushes for Goldendoodles. Nature can be a bit of a lottery. We can, however, make a few best guesses based on the parents and what usually happens. One thing we do know for sure is that whichever adult coat your pup is destined to have, it will be altogether stiffer and denser than their puppy one. It could even be a different color, thanks to the Poodle Fading Gene. Breeders, however, do highlight a few telltale traits that could give you an early idea of what to expect: Check The Snout An excess of hair at the top of the snout known as a mustache indicates that your pup is likely to end up with a coat on the curlier end of the spectrum. Straighter, shaggier, beard-like hair suggests a wavier coat. If your dog has short hair here and an overall neat and tidy-looking muzzle, they will probably inherit a straight coat. Pay Attention to the Generation The generation of the dog can also provide a strong indication of what to expect. See Also: Click the image Goldendoodle Puppy Coat Transition Phases When it comes to changing from the puppy to the adult coat, there are no clear-cut transition phases. When and how pups blow their puppy coat varies from dog to dog. With most dogs, it tends to happen at around six months, and it can be either sudden or gradual. Some owners barely even notice — it all depends on the final hair type. However, you may start to notice a little more hair in the brush or a few more tangles around the armpits, tail, and ears. If your Goldie is getting more of a curly coat, you will need to be extra vigilant at this time. Shedding puppy hair can all too easily get caught up in tight curls leading on to painful knots and mats that are all but impossible to remove with a brush. A good rule of thumb with dogs is that with a low-shedding coat, you have to spend more time on brushing; with a high shedding one that time will be spent cleaning hair up off the floor or your clothes. Which Goldendoodles Get Puppy Coats? Pretty much every variety of Goldendoodle from Standard to Mini experiences some sort of coat change as they transition from puppy to adult. The switch from puppy to adult coat is also less noticeable with active dogs and particularly ones that spend a lot of time swimming. The water washes away the old hair as it is replaced with the new. It is not left about the house as it otherwise would be. This change could be pretty dramatic or quite subtle depending on the type of adult coat your pup has inherited. They will shed their puppy coat somewhere between four and eight months, and their stiffer, denser adult one will start to come in at this time. Do Goldendoodle puppies change color? While your pup is unlikely to completely change color on you, many Goldies get lighter as their adult coat comes in. This is known as fading. How do you tell if a Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings? Furnishings refer to the hair features about the face. The best way to know if your Goldie will have furnishings is to pay attention to their generation. F1 Goldendoodles are most likely to be missing them. F1B dogs are the most likely to have them. If a puppy lacks furnishings, they are unlikely to develop them in adulthood. With or without, though, all Doodles are still undeniably cute. When adopting a puppy, there are many things you need to be prepared for. Many people choose to adopt one of these darling dogs for their hypoallergenic properties. The best way to anticipate precisely what kind of hair your Goldendoodle will have when they are done blowing their coat is to speak to the breeder. Checking out the parent dogs is also recommended for later generations. However, this is no exact science, and you should really be prepared for anything. We are sure, though, that no matter how your Goldie ends up looking as they develop, you will love them just the same. How could you not? Just look at that face! Learn How to Upkeep Your Doodle! Is this the Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? Where are all these dog mats coming from? The surprising transition from puppy coat to adult coat can sneak up on any unsuspecting dog mom. But the subject of the Goldendoodle coat transition deserves just as much attention as all the other Goldendoodle pros and cons. However, one thing is true for all Goldendoodle puppies. At some point, the Goldendoodle puppy coat will change and the adult coat will come in. Matting can take over quickly Kind of like the month of March, the coat transition may enter like a lion! You may be surprised how quickly the mats coming roaring onto the scene. When my Goldendoodle sidekick Chloe was a pup, her puppy coat was soft and silky and there was not a mat to be found, even in the crevices like the armpits! Meet Chloe. Her puppy coat was silky soft. First under the ears. Then the armpits. Brushing became our thing. Brushing removes dead hair that would otherwise cause mats. Like hair on our human heads, dog hair has to go somewhere. Since Doodles tend to shed less, Goldendoodle grooming is part of keeping the hair from tangling and matting. There will always be hair to manage with any dog, whether low-shedding or high-shedding. With a low-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of grooming. With a high-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of time spent cleaning hair off floors. Either way, you have the joy of being a dog parent! For more about shedding, read my article: Do Goldendoodles Shed? It may make you feel overly confident. When the Goldendoodle puppy coat starts transitioning, be ready. When do Goldendoodle puppies shed their coat? However, as a rule of thumb, Goldendoodle parents say anywhere between four to eight months and may even be up to two years. What happens during a Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? When the Goldendoodle adult coat begins to grow in, the puppy coat begins to shed. This creates tangles. If not groomed early, the tangles turn into mats. Since there are so many Goldendoodle coat types, there is not one set example. Some parents will hardly notice the change while other Goldendoodle parents will find what feels like an explosion of mats. What areas are the biggest matting culprits? View Larger Image Introduction: The time will come when your little Goldendoodle pup will need to switch from puppy food to adult dog food. While you may think this transition is as simple as changing kibble brands, there are a few things you should consider before making the switch. This blog post will explore when to switch from puppy food to dog food Goldendoodle and what factors you should consider in making this decision. We will also give you tips on making the transition as smooth as possible for your furry friend. Puppy food vs. Puppy food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of puppies as they grow and develop. Dog food is formulated for adult dogs. Puppies need more calories, protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus than adult dogs. They also need specific vitamins and minerals in higher amounts than adults. For example, puppies need more niacin vitamin B3 for proper growth and development. Some puppy foods contain DHA an omega-3 fatty acid to support cognitive development. When to switch from Goldendoodle puppy food to adult food? Smaller dogs can be switched to adult food as early as months old, while larger breed dogs may need to consume puppy food until they are months old. The food you are feeding will also play a role when you make the switch. For example, if you are providing your Goldendoodle with a grain-free diet, you may be able to switch them to adult food sooner than if you were feeding them a diet with grains. The American Kennel Club recommends switching to adult dog food around 12 months or when your pup reaches its full size — whichever comes first. If you are unsure about what age to switch from the puppy food, it is best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to take into account all the factors involved and give you specific advice for your dog. How much dog food should a Goldendoodle eat? On average, an adult Goldendoodle should eat cups of dry food per day. Puppies will typically consume meals per day until they are about six months old, which can be transitioned to 2 meals per day. The number of calories in a dog food cup varies based on the type of food. Puppies and active dogs will require more calories than sedentary adults. What are the benefits of switching to dog food? The benefits of switching from puppy to dog food are many and varied. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the monetary one. Puppy food is generally more expensive than adult dog food, so making the switch can help to keep your costs down. Adult dog food is formulated to provide optimal nutrition for your pet, so making the switch can help to keep them healthy and fit. Finally, switching to adult dog food may also help to reduce or eliminate bad breath. Many puppies have bacteria in their mouths that cause bad breath, but this usually goes away as they age. If bad breath is a problem for your pup, switching to adult dog food may help to resolve it. Are there any risks associated with switching to dog food? The biggest threat is that your dog may not like the new food and refuse to eat it. It can lead to malnutrition and weight loss. If you notice any vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of illness, stop feeding the new food immediately and consult your veterinarian. How do I transition my Goldendoodle from puppy food to dog food? During the transition period, you need to: Introduce the new food gradually. Mix the new food with the old, slowly increasing the amount until your Goldendoodle is only eating the new food. FAQs: Q1: When to switch to adult food? A: Every dog is unique, and there is no hard and fast rule for when to stop feeding Goldendoodle puppy food. Q2: Is it bad to feed a grown dog puppy food? Puppy food often contains more calories and fat than adult dog food, leading to weight gain and other health problems. Q3: How much to feed a Goldendoodle puppy? A: In the first twelve weeks, you should feed your Goldendoodle pup times a week. Later, you can switch to 3 times a day. Q4: What happens if a puppy eats adult dog food? A: Adult dog food vs. If you feed adult dog food to your puppy, you may be Conclusion: When can Goldendoodle puppies eat adult dog food? Switching from puppy to dog food is an important milestone for your Goldendoodle. The right time to switch will depend on your pet, but most Goldendoodles will be ready to transition between 6 and 8 months. Talk to your veterinarian about when they recommend making the switch, and then introduce the new food slowly. Related Posts. These are the typical week-by-week Goldendoodles stages that you will go through with a new Goldendoodle puppy and what signs to look for that they are not developing correctly. Predicting average weights in Goldendoodles is challenging. The parent breeds are the strongest predictor of size, but hybrids can be unpredictable. Standard poodles and Golden Retrievers are both large dog breeds. However, a toy poodle or mini poodles can be bred to larger breeds like Golden Retrievers to produce a much smaller dog, like a toy Goldendoodle or even teacup Goldendoodles. Dogs with long lines registered with the Goldendoodle Association may have more predictable traits, but not as much as an AKC purebred dog. These puppies are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. These first weeks are a very critical time in their development. Your puppy will start to open their eyes at about 2 weeks of age. By the time that they are 3 weeks, their ears will be open, and you will start to notice that their teeth are pushing through their gums. At the end of this first stage, your Goldendoodle puppy will be aware of their surroundings. They will start to bark, crawl, and interact with the other puppies in their litter. At the end of this first puppy stage, they are aware of everything that is around them and are trying to crawl, bark, and interact with their littermates. During this time, they will continue to grow in size rapidly. Most importantly, they start to get more socially active with their mom, littermates, and the people in their lives. Your puppy will start to learn many new things during this stage of puppy development. Their mother will begin to teach them a few basic manners and start the weaning process. They will learn how to play with other puppies and what other puppies will tolerate. This is when they will learn how strong of a bite they have and what is okay for playing. They will usually establish a pecking order within the litter of puppies. This is the main reason why most breeders do not recommend taking the puppies from their litter and mother until they are about 7 to 8 weeks old. By 6 to 7 weeks of age, your Goldendoodle puppy will be able to be left alone for a short period of time. They will also be doing normal puppy behaviors such as eating puppy food , walking, running, and wagging their tail. This is also the time that your Goldendoodle puppy will need their first set of vaccines and dewormed. Most breeders will take their puppies to the vet for these vaccines. This way, they know that their puppies have received the vaccines that they need to get started off on the right track. Stage 3: 7 weeks to 12 Weeks After 7 weeks of age, your puppy is old enough to leave their mother and other littermates and go to their new home. This will probably be around the age when your first get your Goldendoodle. At first, try to keep everything just like the breeder had been. This helps keep your puppy on a normal routine while they are adjusting to their new house. Once your puppy has been at your house for a few days, you can slowly switch things if you want. You may already have a diet you want your puppy to eat. Also, make sure that your dog is eating large-breed puppy food. This will make sure that your Goldendoodle puppy is receiving the best nutrition needed for their fast-growing body. If you do plan on switching diets, make sure that you do this slowly; quickly changing diets can cause GI problems in your new puppy. At this age, your puppy will be ready to start learning everything and experiencing everything you are ready to teach them. They learn very fast at this age, so it is important to make sure that you are teaching them correctly. Your puppy can learn basic commands and manners by going to puppy classes. This will also give them socialization with other puppies and people during this stage. Having many different social encounters will help them become a very well-mannered dog. During this time, your Goldendoodle puppy may show signs of fear. This is a normal experience for a puppy to go through. They may be afraid of certain people, places, or things that they have never been afraid of. During this time, it is important to continue to socialize your Goldendoodle puppy and show them that these things are not as scary as they first thought they were. Make sure not to expose them to a lot of simulations at once, as these can cause them to become more afraid. Stage 4: 3 months to 4 months This is the stage of development when your Goldendoodle puppy will start to become independent. They may even start to challenge you or even ignore you. This is very similar to the terrible twos in people. Your Goldendoodle puppy will also start teething around this time. They will have very painful gums, which will cause them to want to bite and chew on anything possible. Make sure that you are providing your puppy with plenty of approved chewing toys in order to keep your shoes and furniture from becoming the next chew object. During this stage, you may find that you are telling your puppy no a lot. All this training will eventually pay off, and your puppy will be very well-mannered and do what you tell them to. Most of the time, your Goldendoodle puppy just wants to please you. All you must do is give them a little patience and love, and they will quickly learn what is expected of them. By starting obedience classes during this time, you will help your puppy become a friendly and well-behaved adult Goldendoodle. Stage 5: 4 months to 10 months During this time, your Goldendoodle puppy will continue to grow and develop very quickly. It is very important to continue teaching and training your Goldendoodle puppy. They will learn how to adapt to different social situations and what behavior is approved and what is not approved during this time. They will also continue to challenge you, so be prepared to stick to your training and not back off. During this time, your Goldendoodle may act a little bratty. There are going through their teenage years during this time. Also, during this time, do not let your dog play-bite with you, as this can teach them to be aggressive and encourage other dominant behaviors Around 6 months of age, it is advised to spay or neuter your Goldendoodle puppy. These procedures will help your puppy stay healthy and happy as well as prevent unwanted litters that end up in the shelter. Stage 6: 10 months to 1 Year During this stage, small Goldendoodles will reach their full size. They will usually reach maturity around 8 to 12 months of age. Larger Goldendoodles will continue to grow during this time and may not fully develop until they are 18 months to 2 years old. Your Goldendoodle puppy may now look like an adult dog; they usually are still developing mentally. They will have a ton of energy and usually not a lot of common sense. You will still need to monitor your Goldendoodle for any unwanted behavior and quickly correct any problems that you notice starting. Even though they are no longer a puppy, they will still need to continue training and learning commands. At this stage, your Goldendoodle will need lots of attention and exercise to keep them for getting into trouble. Always use a very firm voice and positive reinforcement when training and correcting unwanted behavior. It is best to have a loving and patient but firm voice when training your Goldendoodle Stage 7: 1 year and Older Between 1 and 2 years of age, your Goldendoodle will be fully developed and sexually mature. Your puppy will finally stop growing but may fill out in size just a little. At this point, you can now start exercising more with your Goldendoodle. They love to go for a jog, do agility training, or go for a long hike. Since their bones are now fully developed, there is less likely that they are going to have joint or stress injuries. This is also the best time to switch your puppy from puppy food to adult food. It is always best to stay with the same brand of puppy food that you fed to help decrease any GI signs from switching food. When switching food, it is recommended to switch food slowly. Also, make sure that the diet that you are feeding your Goldendoodle puppy is a high-quality diet. When will my Goldendoodle puppy need to be vaccinated? This is a common schedule most veterinarians follow when vaccinating puppies. This is usually done by the breeder before you get your Goldendoodle puppy. Most of these worms are microscopic, but some you can see in their stool. If you see worms, make sure to let your vet know. Your vet can give your Goldendoodle puppy medication to get rid of these nasty worms. Not only will your pet need vaccines, but they will also need heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. All of these parasites can cause health problems in your Goldendoodle, some of which can be fatal. If you notice something is not right in your Goldendoodle puppy, it is best to take them to the vet. Some very young Goldendoodle puppies can have problems regulating their blood sugar. If you notice that your Goldendoodle puppy has diarrhea, this can be from the stress of going to a new house, parasites, or even parvo. Any problems noticed in your puppy could be very serious, your vet can examine your pet and make sure that there is nothing that is wrong with your puppy. It would be better to be safe than sorry if your pet has something very serious going on. Both parvo and parasites can easily be prevented by sticking to the vaccine schedule and making sure that your puppy is properly dewormed. How big will my Goldendoodle puppy be? It can be hard to tell as puppies which one will be the biggest or which one will be the smallest. Usually, from the time that they are born until the day that you pick up your new puppy, all the puppies in the litter will change in size. At 8 weeks old, the smallest in the litter will usually be the smallest when they are all fully grown. The older your puppy gets, the easier it will be to determine if your puppy will be bigger or smaller. The exact adult weight can be a guess, but you can expect a miniature Goldendoodle to weigh about 4 to 9 pounds at 8 weeks old and a standard Goldendoodle to weigh over 9 pounds at 8 weeks old, and a medium-size Goldendoodle to fall between the 8 to pound range. Most dogs do most of their growing in the first 6 months of life. Smaller and miniature Goldendoodles will be half-grown at 4 months of age, with larger Goldendoodles taking a few months longer to reach this half-grown point. The larger the dog, the longer it will take them to reach adult size. When will my Goldendoodle Puppy stop growing? It may seem as if your Goldendoodle is getting bigger each day. Most Goldendoodle will be done growing by 1 to 2 years of age. They will usually reach their maximum height by 1 year of age and just fill out a little bit in the next year. Miniature Goldendoodle will be done growing by 7 to 10 months. The smaller the dog, the quicker they reach their adult body weight. Standard Goldendoodle should reach their full size by 2 years of age. After your Goldendoodle reaches 1 year of age, you need to monitor what you are feeding them. Lexie, 5-year-old fully grown F2 Mini Goldendoodle. Adult Stage Since your puppy is now over a year old, they are not growing, but there are some things that you need to consider as they start to get older. Goldendoodles that have just matured are usually very active. As your Goldendoodle gets older, they will start to slow down and sleep a little more. There are diseases that you need to look out for as your Goldendoodle gets older. If you notice any of these signs in your Goldendoodle, you need to see a veterinarian. Predicting the mature size of a puppy is by no means an exact science, especially with a hybrid breed like the goldendoodle. How big will my goldendoodle puppy be? From birth until the gotchya day, puppies have fluctuated back and forth in terms of who weighs the most. Even though adult weight is a bit of a guess for a young puppy, expect mini goldendoodles to weigh 4lbs-9lbs at 8 weeks of age. A medium puppy and standard puppy may both weigh 9lbs at 8 weeks old, but the standard puppy with gain weight at a quicker rate than the medium. Like most dog breeds, goldendoodles generally do the majority of their growing in the first six months of life. In fact, many mini goldendoodle puppies reach half of their adult weight by four months. Standard goldendoodles may take a month or so longer to reach that halfway mark. The larger the dog, the longer growing takes. For mini goldendoodles, expect the weight to start leveling off between months of age. Standard goldendoodles, like other large dog breeds, will grow for a longer period of time. While this rule may work for many standards, it is not accurate with smaller-sized goldendoodles who finish growing at a younger age. When will my goldendoodle stop growing? Dogs can finish growing anywhere between years of age, but generally reach their maximum height by a year of age and spend the remaining months filling out. This means your dog might hit a growth spurt right after her first birthday — she might not get any taller but she could thicken up. Golden retrievers grow at a slower rate in terms of height than standard poodles, but fill out more quickly. Golden retrievers tend to finish growing and filling out between months while standard poodles can take up to 2 years to accomplish the same. Established breeds generally reproduce naturally, whereas first-generation mini goldendoodles require artificial insemination. Subsequent generations of hybrid breeds i. F1b, F2b, etc. F1b goldendoodles can potentially have a slightly more predictable size range if the parents are similar sizes. Our 19lb F1 goldendoodle and 24lb poodle produce F1b mini goldendoodle puppies ranging in weight from lbs as adults. Embark is a canine genetic testing company that offers a variety of canine disease and trait tests in their panel. Order an Embark testing kit off Amazon , send in that quick cheek swab, and Embark will happily send you the results. Check out our goldendoodle puppy time lapses to watch various goldendoodles grow up right before your eyes! If you would like to submit data, please complete our quick survey or email goldendoodles timberidgefarms. Growth patterns vary from dog to dog but there are some generalities you may find helpful. Remember, this is a guide only, not a guarantee! Thank you for your support! 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 this:. Again, this depends on their parents. But most commonly, they have wavy hair. Those with curly hair resemble their Poodle ancestry. Those with a straight look appear more like Golden Retrievers. The latter is far easier to groom. Speaking of grooming… Length After your dogs latest trip to the groomer, how long should you wait before scheduling their next visit? Mark it on your calendar, every six weeks about does the trick. Most Goldendoodles will have regrown everything in about three to four months. Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers have longer coats. While Labradoodles could have a shorter coat, this is uncommon in Goldendoodles, if even present. All in all, a Goldendoodle is a great pet for owners with allergies. While there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, Doodle breeds shed far less than most and are quite allergy friendly. Many Goldendoodle parents may note that their puppy's coat quickly fills with fluffy clumps as a result of this. This is a definite indication that the shift has begun for your dog! Your Goldendoodle puppy's fur is thickest at three months old. It's possible that your puppy's coat has grown to its full potential and is very well-colored at this time. Your Goldendoodle could start to lose its puppy fur and develop an adult coat between the ages of 4 and 8 months. Depending on the exact kind of fur, this process may be slow and scarcely perceptible, rapid and evident, or protracted and difficult. The color and texture of their pelt can also vary. Don't get too depressed if your puppy's fur lasts past the age of 12 months; some Doodles may continue to shed puppy fur. We mentioned earlier about grooming. While most breeds you can take to the groomer at about 12 weeks, you probably want to wait until this six-month mark to shuffle them to the stylist. This will allow most of their puppy fur to be shed. When a puppy is 6 to 10 months old, the silky puppy coat often begins to shed gradually. Your Goldendoodle will continue its gradual transformation from puppy to adult coat by the age of one. Any shedding should be minimized, and if a suitable grooming routine isn't put in place at this time, you can have issues with knots. First, the adult coat becomes stiffer and more curly. Over time, you will notice that the coat is not as soft as it used to be. Most of the time, the color will usually lighten as the dog ages. They will grey just like we will. There are a handful of reasons for changes at this age or, sometimes, younger. If your dog is one that loves daytime romps, the sun could bleach its fur over time. This is natural. Diet and nutrition can affect their coats as well. A lack of vitamins could cause them to shed and matt. You might be allergic to dogs, but your dog could also be allergic to you. Or other things too. If they do have allergies this can affect the color, texture and volume of your puppy's coat. See your vet for best practices about how to assist your dog in these instances. Inherited or communicated diseases can also affect your dog's coat. Again, your trusted vet is best suited to formulate a plan of action for managing the situation. The same goes for grooming your senior pup. Older dogs need to be treated with a bit of finesse. Have that same respect for your dog. Especially those over the age of about ten years or so. If they have arthritis, for example, be aware of those areas on their body. But what happens during the time in between hair care visits? You can even take things step by step and demonstrate how easy it can be. Keep things light. Keep things fun. Shampoo and conditioner of high quality are viable options for special treatment. There are other, less expensive options as well. When they are true puppies, you want to only wash them when they start to smell. What will really help is brushing your puppy on a regular basis. Popping out the brush once a day or every other day is recommended. Brushing their hair less than once a week will almost definitely spell disaster. You can trim things up here and there as well. Where are some trouble spots that will need to be considered when grooming your pup? These might be found at the base of their tail, beneath their ears, and in the area just above their armpits. Don't forget about the back of their haunches and elbows. The best way to learn is with hands-on experience. Ready to get your Goldendoodle today? Have more questions about anything and everything Goldendoodle related? We have the answers , and for all things Doodles, stay tuned to our exciting and educational blog. Coat Comparisons Post updated I have had many inquires from families wondering what coat type the puppies will have as they mature. When dealing with a Hybrid it is very difficult to predict with certainty what their Adult coat will eventuality end up like. Puppies go through multiple coat changes before their adult coat finally comes in. All newborn goldendoodle puppies look like Golden Retrievers. It is not until around 6 — 7 weeks when we can determine if it will be a Flat Coat goldendoodle — no facial furnishings. We have produced flat coats with both straight hair and with some curls. Below are some of our previous puppies. There are three pictures of each puppy. Notice the progression of the puppy: the first picture is newborn, the next picture is puppy at eight weeks old and the last picture the puppy as an adult. My puppies are lucky to have joined such wonderful, loving families. It makes my day when I get an email from one of our previous puppy families giving me an update and sharing pics of their dog. Thank you! They are fluffy all over including the face. They come in three types — Straight, Wavy, and Curly. Grooming requirements are brushing daily to prevent matting and a trip to the groomers every eight weeks or so.

All breeds of Labrador Retrievers are known for being kind and gentle — and this trait runs especially strong with the chocolate-colored sweeties. While these dogs are very friendly to strangers, they have even more affection to give to their beloved families. Your Chocolate Lab puppy or adult will be happiest spending time with their favorite people. If you have young children, a lab is a great fit, as this breed is usually quite tolerant of the horseplay of small children who are still learning how to interact with pets. Just like many people, Chocolate Labs enjoy both downtime — especially if it involves being pampered by their family — and active high-energy fun. We recommend daily exercise, which can include anything from fetch, to tag, or even frisbee games. The average Chocolate Lab lifespan is between 9 and 11 years. The most common Chocolate Lab health problem is hip dysplasia, which occurs more commonly in older and overweight dogs. This is just one of the reasons to make exercise a common part of your time with a Chocolate Lab puppy or fully grown adult. Another problem that occurs in overweight labs is joint and movement issues. The other most common Chocolate Lab health problems are: Progressive Retinal Atrophy Cataracts Elbow Dysplasia As is the case with any dog, when you bring home a Chocolate Labrador, make sure that you have a good vet to handle routing vaccinations and check-ups as well as emergency health problems. Learn more about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! Chocolate Lab Coat Care In general, Chocolate Lab coat care is easy compared to many other dog breeds which require weekly or daily work. Labrador Retrievers all have double coats, which includes an under layer of short hairs and a slightly longer top layer. This coat is useful for repelling water and keeping them cool in warmer temperatures — and warm in cooler ones. Their coat is also noted to be slightly dry and oily. Chocolate Lab coat care is fairly minimal and considered low maintenance. The coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush 2 — 3 times per month to minimize shedding. In addition to that, baths are needed fairly infrequently. What is more crucial is ensuring that their toenails are well cared for throughout the year. Meet Chocolate Lab Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds. The Chocolate Labrador Retriever is not a distinct dog breed from other Labs, but it is a separate coat color variation that is specifically bred for. Similar to the other standard coat colors of Labrador Retrievers, Chocolate Labs are energetic dogs that get along well in a family setting. As a Retriever, they also make great hunting dogs and have also been known to fill other working dog roles including service dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and more. They are even one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units. A point of interest is that all modern Chocolate Labrador Retrievers can be traced to three specific Black Labradors that lived during the s. Chocolate Labs are industrious little pups. They were bred for retrieval and will often sniff about for something to get into. They are also one of the most affectionate dog breeds and absolutely love being with their favorite humans. Properly socialized and well-trained, Labs are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are famously even-tempered and playful. This makes them fantastic dogs for a growing family, as they tend to be gentle and patient with little ones. They can have a high prey drive. They usually do well with small pets within the family that they have been raised with or socialized around, but likely will still have the urge to chase other animals while out and about. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. After all, strangers are just more people to give them attention and play with them. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers may be high-energy dogs, but they are also highly adaptable. They will thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can run freely. They can adapt well to apartment living as well as long as they get plenty of daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. Their natural urge to dig and bark when they are bored or agitated can be quelled with a little training and exercise. Although they can handle some alone time, Labs love to be with their families and thrive on attention from them, so they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Chocolate Labs also have a water-resistant double coat that makes them well-suited for most habitable climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat. Although they can handle some cold and will likely love to play in the snow, they are not a snow dog breed and may need to bundle up while out on walks in areas with harsher winters. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chocolate Labrador Retriever can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, hereditary myopathy, and heart disease. There is also a condition with a genetic link called exercise-induced collapse EIC , which can occur in young adult Labradors. Carriers of this can be identified by DNA tests and it is advised that breeders test for this and avoid practices that would produce the disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are incredible companions and are also one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Their energy can make them a handful at times, but their intelligence, adaptability, patience with people, and eagerness to please make them easy to train. Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds , so they pick up on things easily. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, a Chocolate Lab will do their best to respond as expected and will often exceed expectations. Chocolate Labs have a short, water-resistant coat that will shed year-round. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath are all that are needed to keep a Lab coat healthy and looking great. They may need baths more often if they are avid swimmers, go on a lot of outdoor adventures, and get dirty a lot. Floppy ears tend to trap dirt, moisture, and debris. Proper dental care for dogs is imperative to help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease or tooth decay later in life. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene chews. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds and need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but your Chocolate Labrador will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood and tend to maintain that puppy-like energy and maturity until they are years old. Swimming can be a great lower-impact activity and Labrador Retrievers are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. Between that, their water-resistant coat, and webbed toes, you may have trouble getting your Chocolate Lab out of the water. Fully-grown Chocolate Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Chocolate Labs generally live for years on average. Fourteen years later, the American Kennel Club did the same in .Featured Chocolate Labrador Retriever Article.

Pairing the sweet and friendly nature of the Labrador Retriever with the low-shedding Poodle genes, we get the most charming Doods that any owner would love to have by their side. And as both Poodles and Labradors are extremely intelligent, training Labradoodles is an absolute breeze! Thorough health screening helps breeders choose the healthiest pups for breeding new litters. As a result, the new litters have a much lower chance of inheriting any hereditary health issues. Likewise, ethical Labradoodle breeders in Florida also offer a health guarantee, which covers any serious genetic conditions that the parent pups have been tested for. The health guarantees usually cover the first two years, but some breeders also offer three-year health guarantees. However, all of these organizations require their member breeders to follow ethical breeding guidelines and strict health testing standards. And if any of your friends, family members, or neighbors have recently adopted a Labradoodle puppy, reach out to them and ask about their experiences with various breeders in your state. Their goal is to breed happy and healthy Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with wonderful temperaments. At Coastal Labradoodles, they raise all of their puppies in a loving and safe home environment. All of their breeding dogs are family pets first who either live with the breeder or with carefully chosen guardian families. This ensures that each dog is pampered and loved by their very own family. Coastal Labradoodles conducts extensive health and genetic testing on all of their breeding dogs to ensure the health and wellbeing of their litters. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Coastal Labradoodles follows Puppy Culture and Avidog methods when raising their puppies. Since they raise their puppies inside their own home as part of their family, their pups are already well-socialized with adults, children, and other dogs. In addition to that, their pups are well-adjusted to all sorts of household sights and sounds, and they even start with potty training and crate training before the pups go to their forever homes. Puppies receive all age appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and a microchip. Waitlist: Yes. Our puppies are all over the world and would be happy to make you part of our puppy family. Thank you for visiting South Florida Australian Labradoodles. .We are the first multigenerational registered Australian Labradoodle in South Florida. We started in with our first mini Australian Labradoodle and fell in love with the temperament of this breed. Since then, we have held back mostly our own puppies and created the amazing lines we have today. We have generation after generation of our same lines, so our puppies temperaments are very predictable. We have since grown to our wonderful puppies being all over the world. We specialize in Mini Australian Labradoodles and know how important it is to know you are getting an Authentic Australian Labradoodle that is healthy, sound temperament, correct structure and amazing coats. All of our breeding dogs are registered and health tested to the standards of the ALAA. We adhere to a strict code of ethics, breed standard and strive to do everything with the highest integrity. All of our puppies are raised in our home and receive endless kisses by the time they go home. If you did not receive a response please check your junk mail. They are located in the St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and St. Pete Beach areas of Florida. To learn more you can visit their website here or send them an email at tbalusa gmail. They have been in business since .They breed allergy and asthma friendly mini, medium and standard size Australian Labradoodle puppies. All of their breeding dogs are health tested according to the standard of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. The kennel was founded by Peggy, who opened her business because of her love for dogs and desire for safer breeding practices. They socialize and teach. And, they provide a lot of interaction between their puppies. Individualized attention to their litters. They start training early and send them home vaccinated. They are located in Tampa Bay and Central Florida. To learn more about Seaspray and their upcoming litters, visit their website here. Lakewood Labradoodles Lakewood is a breeder of allergy friendly australian labradoodles. Located in Winter Haven, they raise their puppies inside their home as members of their family. Before you can take them home, Lakewood helps to begin the training process by laying a foundation for a well trained pet. For more information on their upcoming litters, visit their website here. They specialized in miniature to medium sized Australian Labradoodle puppies. I do not work outside of the home and I am fully involved in their upbringing, early development and training. They test for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, PRA and have eye exams annually. Before you bring your puppy home, they will be vaccinated, given a microchip, dewormed and given a well-puppy exam at 8 weeks. Plus, their litters are evaluated by a behaviorist to ensure good behavior before you bring your new dog home. To learn more about their upcoming litters and to view their dogs, visit their website here. They genetically and radio graphically test all their dogs for genetic disease and any health issues. Their puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. They breed their dogs to the highest of standards and each dog is registered and health tested to the regulations of the ALCA. Additionally, they have all of their breeding dogs DNA profiles so you know that you are getting an Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle. Before you bring your puppy home, they use neurological stimulation and activities to promote well behaved and confident pets. We want to raise our Australian Labradoodle puppies to have the best chance to grow into confident, stable and able to handle the stresses and challenges of a modern lifestyle. Fursure Helps Pet Parents Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself. We are a small breeder of exceptional companion, multi-generational Australian Labradoodle Puppies. We are located in the central Florida area, minutes away from Orlando and very accessible via all of the major central Florida highways. All of our litters are hand raised in our home, never in a kennel. Our puppies are born in our master bedroom or bathroom, where they remain until they are three and a half to four weeks old. During this early period, we begin using puppy culture techniques in order to help raise very confident, well balanced puppies. At just over three weeks, we introduce a designated potty area, which they often begin finding within a couple of days, we also introduce solid foods at this same time initially goats milk, then a few days later we begin adding raw food. Later they are moved into our main living area, where they are exposed many new sounds, sights, textures and experiences in preparation for joining your family. The majority of our parent dogs share a home with one of our incredible guardian families. Virtually all of our guardians have come to us by way of referral from our existing guardian families - we'd like to think that is indicative of a very positive relationship. By implementing our guardian family team, our mom and dad dogs often live as the single pampered pet of their household. This is consistent in maintaining great family dogs - likely one of the reasons that you are considering an Australian labradoodle puppy. Our guardians are very hands on with the shaping of your future puppy, sometimes even assisting during the birthing process and later with weekly visits to their home - this is good for our momma dogs, their families and of course our puppies. Our visits allow our pups weekly car rides from week one, as well as early handling and socialization in a very safe and controlled environment. Our parent dogs are rigorously health tested prior to being considered for breeding and assessed for their temperament. We have been working with most of our lines for over fourteen years and have continued to refine them. When we give consideration to using outside lines, we are very attentive to the same qualities we seek in our parent dogs. While the majority of our litters are medium in size, we do occasionally offer mini doodles as well as standards. We tend to specialize and be known for our red and chocolate labradoodle lines, but also produce a great variety of other colors and patterns. Thank you for visiting our website! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. We look forward to becoming part of your happily furever after! Coastal Labradoodles has been family-owned since and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of labradoodle puppies. We offer multi-generation labradoodles that have been bred with the utmost care and attention. Our puppies are raised with love and socialized to provide the perfect pet for any family. When you purchase one of our puppies, you get more than just a pet. Our white glove service includes a healthy puppy guarantee and a lifetime of support for both you and the puppy. Coastal Labradoodles LLC To be guardian family for one of our breeding dogs Our goal is to raise well-balanced multi-generation Australian Labradoodle puppies. Coastal Labradoodles is committed to health screening all breeding dogs, subscribing to the ethics, rules, and regulations of the largest and most comprehensive ALD breeders club in the world, the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association WALA. We are proud to be founders of this excellent and well respected organizaiton, where health and disposition are put foremost for this incredible breed. All our puppies have certified pedigreed thorugh WALA with generations that go back decades. In addition, they are selected for disposition, coat and heathy conformation. They gain confidence through positive experiences and daily stimulation activties, long tested to be effective in raising healthy puppies in body and brain. We offer lifetime support. Experience and certification with an established and pedigreed organization matter. We have over fifteen years of both of these. Our puppies are confident and eager to bond with humans of every kind. This includes physical traits, disease, as well as disposition. Puppies are checked by our vet and vaccinated. We offer a lifetime of support and love to keep in contact. Photos are enjoyed! Raised in our homes in North Central Florida, these doodles are a part of our family. Whether a rowdy SEC football Saturday, lazy Sunday, chore day or vacation, our doodles are by our side. With more than 9 acres between us, they enjoy romping through the fields and forest, are always ready for a ride, and love welcoming family and friends. COM for exceptional breeding and health testing practices. She is the first to the door when she hears the jingle of car keys. She enjoys romping through the grass with her fellow Lea Acres doodles to see who can fetch the ball first. Harper is a sharp girl, as a puppy she was ringing the bell to go outside within a few days of coming home, and has been known to stage an escape for a crated comrade. She never ceases to amaze us with her quick thinking. Her best friends are a 6 year old girl and a senior bully dog. She is agile and athletic, but also extremely skilled at curling up on your feet. One of her favorite parts of the day is checking on her flock of chickens. The first to greet us with a hug, and each night lets us know when she is ready for her bedtime belly rub. Her favorite toy is the biggest stick she can find, and with acres of options she is never in short supply. His thicker build is a compliment to the sleek build of some of our girls. Tucker has produced beautiful puppies, and is available for stud to approved ALAA breeding programs. Harlea filled so many lives with love and joy in the short time she was with us. An unfortunate accident took her from us far too soon, but we hold her close in our hearts. This program is designed to instill not just basic behaviors and loose leash walking, but also grooming and etiquette — a complete package for a well-behaved pet. Plus, did you know that a CGC certification might even get you a nifty discount from your insurance or apartment complex? Learn how this program, a potential stepping stone for those eyeing agility or obedience competitions, compares with the AKC CGC. Get to know about the AKC trick titles, an engaging way to teach your dog new cues and earn titles to their name. Tune in and explore the significance of these fantastic resources! 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You may find yourself on the dog food isle trying to make sense of all the ingredients, types of foods and categories. And all you want to know is… How often and what should I feed my Pug? Every dog is different, every type of food has its specific quantities and it even varies between brands. Start simple and figure out all the details and methods. I have collected information about the different types, brands pros and cons of dog feeding to try and give an unbiased as much as I can look, so you can make a better-informed choice which will be right for you and your Pug. Remember, people care deeply about their dogs and will often get very emotional about the health and feeding they chose. Having been the owner of a pet store, I have learned that although I have my personal preferences and very good reasons for them, others may have different choices and they believe they are the right ones for them. There are a lot of issues to consider. How Many times a day should I feed My Pug? A mature Pug can easily live a healthy life with one meal which provides all his nutritional needs. In most cases, it is more convenient for both us and the pug to split this to two meals. If your Pug had a full meal in the morning, be sure he will nag you like crazy in the afternoon. Puppies have smaller stomachs and need, relative to their size, a larger quantity of food so it is better to break it up to three or even four meals a day. If you are around your Pug all day and prefer to give 4 meals a day to a mature dog, there is no harm in it, as long as the overall daily quantity stays the same. Free Buffet or Set meals? Pugs are notorious for becoming overweight and need to be limited to a set amount. If your Pug is not typical in that sense, you are welcome to put the full daily portion in the bowl and see how long it lasts. One more reason for set meals is monitoring. You want to know how much you Pug eats. If you want your Pug to lose weight, you need to know how much he is eating in order to cut down. On the flip side, if your Pug is not eating the usual amounts it may be an indication of a medical condition. What food do Pugs Eat? Pugs love food. They love treats, dry food, wet food, table scraps, raw meat, cooked meat, spicy meat and meat gone bad. In rural areas and farms, they may have also got more meaty scraps. Our Pugs who grew up with Emperors and Royalty were probably treated to high quality scraps. Today, dry bagged kibble or canned wet food are the standard for most homes, although there is a growing number of people and companies promoting more natural diets of either raw or cooked food for dogs. Every type of food claims to be the healthiest, more appropriate, tailored and nutritional. Kibble Kibble is the most common dog food available and has become the staple for the average dog. Pros of Kibble The makers of dry food claim it has the most balanced and scientifically based formulas to provide the best nutrition for a dog. They also tailor these formulas to dogs of different size, breed, age or other needs. Even the most discerning dog owners should be able a composition to satisfy them. The ingredient list is unclear and misleading. There are numerous food recalls yearly. There are websites dedicated just to keep up with the recalls. Teeth are going to need cleaning. Wet canned food Aside from the meatier texture and the higher water content, there is little difference between kibble and the canned, wet counterpart. The ingredients can be similar and so are the health benefits. Some dog owners report that wet food makes for softer stools when fed exclusively. Many dog owners will give a combination of wet and dry food. Home cooked As with human food there is a growing number of people fed up Pun intended with commercial and over engineered food. Raw food Also called the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods , the idea behind it is that the dogs digestive system has not evolved as their behavior, and much like wild dogs or wolves, they should eat the equivalent to small animals they would pray on in nature. Since dogs are also scavengers this diet will include some vegetables, berries etc. The pros As with the home-cooked diet, you have total control of ingredients and quality No preservatives, additives, fillers etc. You need to learn how to make, takes time Ingredients like bones and internal organs may not be available in your area. Can be pricy. Even More expensive if buying ready and frozen. Takes freezer space Raw Disclaimer I am a little bias towards raw food. I used to own a pet food store specializing in raw food for cats and dogs and I have been feeding my own Pugs raw food for over twelve years. Obviously, I am very happy with the raw diet and its outcomes as switching to dry food would have been easy and cheap. I believe it is the better choice for myself and my dogs. I believe I have presented the facts fairly objectively as far as the other feeding options go. There is no standard or way to measure what natural is and what the added value of it is other then the origin of it. Natural color could come from some secretion of an insect. Special Needs Puppies These little ones need the most nutritious and high-quality food you can find. If you want to find an economic way to feed your dog, please do it later in his life. Allergies Pugs are relatively sensitive to allergies. In some cases, this is due to an external source such as home detergents, but more often than not it has to do with their diet. There are a few brands that you can try with low, or no grain. If you are feeding your pug home cooked food or a raw diet, taking the carbs and grain out would be easy. Our Pugs were and are on a raw diet from day one and we never had any issues with allergies, except for one time. We started noticing that Preston had pinkish skin around his paws and around the nose fold. Since we owned a pet food store specializing in raw food, at the time convenient, I know we tried different types of meats, but nothing helped. It took us some time to realize the cause. We had our baby daughter at the time, and since she was very close and intimate with Preston, and he was eating raw, we made sure to wipe his mouth and feet with baby wipes after every meal. The baby wipes were the culprits. We switched them both to hypo-allergenic wipes and the skin went back to normal… Hip Dysplasia Pugs are ranked as one of the breeds with the highest chances of suffering from Hip Dysplasia. This can lead to trouble in walking and running and arthritis may follow as well. If your Pug is suffering from Hip Dysplasia to any extent you may want to either supplement their diet with Chondroitin and Glucosamine or to choose a brand that is made for joint support. Vets and nutrition. Having said that, if I needed nutritional advice, I would go to a nutritionist and not to my Doctor. The nutrition training vets get in many schools is provided by agents of the commercial food companies who are bias at best. Skipping meals Dogs will sometimes skip a meal. It is natural for them as food is not something that was always available on daily base. It is not typical for Pugs but it may happen. If it happens it will probably be a one meal deal. If your Pug misses a few meals in a row you may want to consult a vet. Treats and snacks I try and think of treats and snacks the same way I think of candy for my daughters. If the amount of treats your Pug is rivals the actual food, in quantity, you should reconsider or at least re calculate it. If you are using kibble both at meals and as treats for training, and your stubborn Pug ends up consuming a lot of treats, just take it off the next meal. The same goes for snacks. They should be a part of the total daily feeding and not extra. How long can a pug go without eating? An adult Pug can probably survive many days without food, but no Pug would stand for it. Unless your Pug has a medical condition, he will surely let you know he is hungry. Do make sure that your Pug is not deprived of fresh drinking water at all times. More so if the weather is hot and if he is on a dry food diet and has no other source of hydration. What if my Pug is overweight? Pugs love to eat and have a tendency to eat too much. A chubby Pug is very cute, but at some point, it becomes a health issue. Overweight Pugs may suffer from a wide range of conditions and or aggravate others. Conclusion Food is an important part of your Pugs life and will directly affect his health and well-being. Do make sure you know what your Pug is eating, the quality as well as the quantities. Actually, yes. This is an actual condition called Eye Displacement or Proptosis. It is not a common occurrence but with extreme trauma or circumstances it may happen. In most cases the condition is treatable. More on the condition here… Are Pugs Loving? Pugs have been bred as companion dogs for over two thousand years. Being with people is almost in their DNA. So yes, Pugs love to cuddle, snuggle and just be in contact or as close as they can to their human friends. More on Pug Love here. Aug 25, Share An important part of taking good care of your Pug puppy is making sure that they are properly fed and that they get all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and if your Pug is like most, they seem to like anything that they are fed. Luckily, there are many commercial foods available on the market. There is also the raw doggy food diet that seems to keep getting more popular as time goes on. But what kind of dog food is right for your Pug? How much should you be feeding them? What will the dog not eat? Are there special considerations for a senior Pug? The answers to these questions and more can be found in our Pug feeding guide below. What you do decide to feed your pooch should be based on the quality of the food, no matter the type, and your personal feeding preferences. Here is what can be on the table for your Pug. Image credit: PxHere Commercial Dry Food Kibble Commonly referred to as kibble, commercial dry dog food is the most common and widely available option on the market. Manufacturers of this type of food work hard to balance the ingredients and create a completely balanced nutritional profile for dogs like your Pug. In fact, some brands, like Royal Canin, offer puppy and adult foods made just for Pugs. Whether you choose a dry dog food made just for Pugs or one made for dogs in general, it should include real meat or animal meal as one of the first ingredients on the list. The upside to commercial dry dog food is that it is affordable and easy to administer. It is also typically easy to store for the long term without worrying about it spoiling. The downside is that it tends to be dehydrating, so water should be available to your Pug throughout the day. Commercial Wet Food Commercially made wet dog food tends to be more nutrient-dense than dry food because it contains fresher ingredients and usually has fewer grains, if any at all. Most wet foods have real whole meat or seafood and broth as the first ingredients. Sometimes, veggies are thrown in for good measure, but many are meat-centric to meet the high protein needs of your growing Pug. Wet food is not as easy to store as dry food is, because it must be refrigerated after being opened. However, Pugs tend to enjoy the flavor and texture of wet food more than dry. Wet food is also a little more expensive than dry food, especially when trying to feed Pugs that are full-grown and in their prime. Raw Food A raw food diet is said to result in better digestion, a healthier coat and immune system , optimal dental health, and less susceptibility to allergies among other things. A raw food diet typically consists of quality meat, a source of calcium such as bones , animal organs, and a lower fat count than most commercial foods offer. Feeding your Pug a raw food diet will take commitment and a strong understanding of the nutrition that they need. This type of diet can be expensive and can require storage space in the fridge and freezer. It is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian to put together a complete meal plan to follow if you choose to go this route. It is a freeze-dried raw food supplement that is delicious and nutritious. The process requires about a day of cooking in the kitchen, but the time that you spend in your kitchen should yield enough food for your pooch to eat all week long. You will just have to store the leftovers in the fridge each day until the entire batch has been offered and consumed. Homemade dog food usually consists of whole meat like chicken, eggs, fish oil or flaxseed, brown or white rice, possibly vegetables like carrots and peas , and maybe even supplements of some kind. It depends on what kind of recipe you decide to follow. Any recipe that you consider feeding your dog should be approved by your veterinarian first. But you can quickly tell whether your pooch is being underfed or overfed by checking out their physique every day. If your dog is underfed for too long, you could notice signs like lethargy and an unwillingness to interact with family members. If your dog is overfed, they may succumb to problems like diabetes. If you find that your dog is getting underweight, start feeding them up to an extra cup of food each day. Reduce the amount by up to a cup if your dog is getting pudgy and out of shape. To help avoid under and overfeeding your dog, follow the feeding directions on the packaging of any commercial food you buy for them. If you decide to go the raw or homemade food route, your veterinarian can provide you with a feeding guide. You are free to use this image, but please give credit back to Hepper. Extra immune support is also typically present in puppy food. Once Pugs become adults, they are not as active as when they were pups, and they are not growing at exponential rates, if at all. Therefore, they need food with less protein than what puppies get. Pugs can typically switch to adult dog food between the ages of 9 and 12 months because much of their growth will be complete at this time. The tricky part is the actual process of switching your pooch from puppy to adult dog food. If not done slowly and intentionally, switching to a new food can cause digestion issues for your dog that could create messes around the house. Lethargy and nausea may follow. Finally, offer only adult food. There are many reasons why your Pug might seem like they do not have an appetite. The first thing to consider is whether you are overfeeding them. If your pooch does not want to eat their last meal of the day, they could simply be full and satisfied. However, other issues could lead to a pup not eating such as: Dental Problems. If your Pug has a toothache or some other kind of dental problem, they may not be comfortable eating. Check for red gums, bleeding, and tenderness throughout the mouth. If something unusual is detected, consult your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Recent Vaccinations. Vaccines can cause side effects, including a lack of appetite. So, if your Pug does not seem to want to eat for a day or two after getting vaccinated, this is normal. Uncomfortable Surroundings. If your pooch goes on an adventure with you and is expected to eat their meal in a situation that is not familiar to them, they may pass on the meal altogether in favor of waiting until they get to what they feel is a safe space to eat. Even if your dog seems fine in every other way, a lack of wanting to eat could mean an illness of some kind is brewing. If you cannot find any other reason for a lack of appetite, you should see your vet as soon as possible. Adult Pugs will generally eat about a cup of dry commercial dog food each day or the equivalent, although certain differences might scale this amount up or down as time goes on. Here are the most important factors to consider. Active vs. Sedentary More active dogs will require more food than those that tend to be sedentary. If your pooch takes multiple walks every day, spends a great deal of time playing with kids throughout the day, or enjoys outdoor time with family members each afternoon, chances are that your dog will need a little more food than the average pooch. If your pooch takes only one short walk each day and spends most of their time lounging around the house, chances are that they should be fed as sedentary dogs. Spayed vs. Neutered Sometimes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered eat more than the average pooch. This is because they tend to be more active and excitable, which results in the need for more calories to support their energy needs. Pregnancy Pregnant Pugs need up to twice the amount of food that an adult dog would need. Instead of feeding your pregnant dog puppy or adult food, consider a food designed for all life stages that indicates its suitability for pregnancy. This type of food offers more protein and fat than adult food to support the extra growth they go through, but not as much as puppy food, which could make them overweight after the birth. What Foods Are Bad for Pugs? Image By: Momentmal, Pixabay There are a few foods that you should never feed your Pug to ensure their good health and to avoid serious problems like poisoning and even death. Here are a few food items that should be avoided at all costs: Alcohol. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. This food is made for Pugs ages 8 weeks to 10 months. On the other hand, the ingredients list for this food leaves something to be desired. It lists brewers rice as the main ingredient with the second ingredient being chicken by-product meal. For such an expensive Pug food, they sure skimped on the quality of the ingredients! Pros Supports healthy skin, digestive health, and natural defenses Specially shaped kibble is easier for brachycephalic dogs to pick up Cons Brewers rice is the main ingredient 4. It might be expensive, but if you can afford it, it could help keep your pug pup healthy and happy for the long haul. Pros Helps support healthy brain and eye development Contains omega fatty acids for improved skin and coat Lists deboned chicken as the main ingredient Cons 5. Their Wilderness Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula takes things even further with higher levels of protein than their original formula. The use of high-quality ingredients in high concentrations is what earns this food its rather expensive price tag. More than just healthy whole-food ingredients, this food is also fortified with healthful nutrients and supplements. Furthermore, it contains an optimal blend of essential vitamins including calcium, phosphorus, and more, to help support healthy bone growth. Pros Contains high levels of protein Uses high-quality ingredients Packed with healthful nutrients and supplements Cons More expensive than most puppy foods 6. We loved the large pound quantity you can buy it in and the relatively affordable price. Others ate the food but had difficulty digesting it. Still, dogs with sensitive stomachs, in particular, would do well to avoid this food. Introduction Importance of choosing the right food for Pug puppies Feeding your Pug puppies the right food can significantly impact their health, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients and energy to support their growth and development and helps to prevent common health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and food allergies. Factors to consider when selecting the best food for pug puppies When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, there are several factors to consider, including their age, activity level, and specific nutritional needs. Reading the ingredient list and checking the nutritional content can help you to make an informed decision about the best food for your Pug puppy. Wet Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of wet food Wet food is an excellent option for Pug puppies as it is highly palatable and provides additional moisture, which is important for their growing bodies. Wet food also contains higher levels of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for supporting the growth and development of your Pug puppy. Best-reviewed wet food options Royal Canin Pug Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is specifically formulated for Pug puppies, with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Dry Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of dry food Dry food is another great option for Pug puppies as it helps to clean their teeth and promote good oral health. Dry food is also a good source of essential nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of your Pug puppy. It contains a balanced protein, fats, and carbohydrates ratio to meet its unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food — This dry food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Homemade Meals and Snacks for Pug Puppies Benefits of homemade food Homemade meals and snacks are an excellent option for Pug puppies as they allow you to control the ingredients and ensure that your pup gets a healthy and balanced diet. Simple homemade meal and snack recipes for pug puppies Puppy-Friendly Meatloaf: Mix ground turkey or chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans for a tasty and nutritious homemade meal for your Pug puppy. Bake in the oven until fully cooked, and serve in small portions. Homemade Puppy Treats: Mix rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and a beaten egg for a simple and healthy snack for your Pug puppy. Roll out the dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and bake in the oven until crispy. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and avoid using spices and seasonings that can harm dogs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness. A: Wet food can provide a higher moisture content, which can benefit Pug puppies as they need to stay hydrated. Wet food also has a more appealing taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters. Q: What ingredients should I look for in dry food for Pug puppies? A: Look for dry food that contains high-quality proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy homemade meals and snacks? Q: How often should I feed my Pug puppy? A: Pug puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day until they reach six months of age. Then, they can be fed two times a day. The food they need will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Q: What is the best food for Pug puppies with sensitive stomachs? A: Wet food with simple ingredients, like boiled chicken and rice, or dry food specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs can be helpful for Pug puppies with digestive issues. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy adult dog food? A: No, adult dog food does not provide the appropriate nutrients for Pug puppies as they are still growing and developing. Puppy-specific food is formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Gradual changes over a few days to a week are recommended to avoid discomfort. Conclusion Recap of the best food options When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, several options exist. Dry food is also a good option as it helps to clean teeth and is easy to store. Final thoughts The most important thing is to choose a food specifically formulated for Pug puppies with high-quality ingredients to meet their unique nutritional needs. Choosing the best food for your Pug puppy will give them the foundation for a happy and healthy life. From pet nutrition books to online articles, a wealth of information is available on this topic. These resources will give you a deeper understanding of the nutritional needs of your Pug puppy and help you make informed decisions about the best food options for their growth and development. Kibble, cans and specialty foods Proper Nutrition Since puppies need energy to grow big and strong, their food is higher in calories and packed with more nutrients. This includes more fat, protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So always choose a food that is labelled for puppies. Since a Pug is a small toy breed , they will grow very quickly and reach adulthood much faster than larger breeds. Toy dog breeds actually need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their higher metabolic rates. The structure of their flat muzzle and facial folds , while appealing to look at, unfortunately causes a number of serious health problems. This causes soft tissue to block the airways, making breathing very difficult. Their jaws and teeth can also cause them problems. Remember, slimmer is better. How Often To Feed Your Pug Puppy I always recommend feeding puppies small meals at scheduled times several hours apart, and then decreasing the frequency as they get older. For puppies under six months go with something like 7am, 12noon, 3pm then 6pm. As they grow you can reduce this routine to three or even two times a day, but there is no harm continuing with multiple feedings as long as you dividing their daily rations evenly. Kibble vs Canned Food Dried puppy kibble is affordable, easy to store and transport, and readily available. Serving is as simple as opening the package and pouring it into the bowl. Canned or wet food will sometimes offer more meat protein and fewer carbohydrates than kibble does, but you will usually pay more as well. Wet food is also associated with an increase in periodontal diseases , which is not ideal for a dog already prone to these issues. Specialty Pug Puppy Foods The introduction of breed-specific formulas to the market has made it even more confusing. However, there are some Pug puppy formulations that address some of their health issues that might be worth considering. Some kibble is designed in a shape and texture that makes it easier for short-nosed puppies to pick up and chew easily. But the sad part of the story is that just like any other dog, pugs get obese very quickly. As they say, you become what you eat. Since the pug is a tiny dog, even one extra pound will affect its appearance. For this reason, it becomes important to keep a check on what your pug is eating. The present article talks about the feeding guidelines of this adorable dog: How much is too much? It is very important to feed your dog the correct amount of food to ensure that the pug is getting enough calories for proper growth. Any deviation from the right amount will led to health problems in a pug. Age, activity, metabolism and build of a dog are the major factors on which the amount of food which should be given to a dog depends. Also, the type of food you are giving to a dog is another important factor. If you are feeding home cooked food to one pug and commercial dog food to another dog with same age, build and activity level, it is not necessary that both of them will consume the same amount. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy pug should be given 1 ounce of food per one pound of body weight. For adult pugs, the amount is halved. What about calories? A pug puppy which is in his growth phase requires more calories than adult and senior pugs. On an average, a puppy requires 50 calories per pound of their body weight while an adult pug requires 40 calories per pound of their body weight. Senior pugs need fewer calories because of slow metabolism and less activity level. Free feeding is not recommended to the pug. The following table illustrates the right feeding regime and meal frequency for pugs: Age Amount of food given at one time No.