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And when is the best time to start training them? Naturally, the sooner your start with training, the easier it will be. Moreover, you have to remember that you are responsible for your pup. You need to show consistency in your own behavior. Your Doodle will have an easier time adjusting to his new home and family if you start from day one. Establish a Proper Routine Firstly, you should establish a proper routine for your Doodle. This includes meal times, bathroom breaks, playtime, naps, and bedtime. Keep in mind that consistency is key in Goldendoodle training. A structured routine gives dogs a sense of security. It will also help your new Goldendoodle puppy understand how you want them to behave. Routine is also an important part of housetraining , as consistent feeding times will also beget consistent potty times. If you have other family members living with you, make sure you all follow the exact same routine. It is usually recommended that puppies younger than six months of age eat three meals per day. Socialize Your Puppy Secondly, all dogs, and especially Goldendoodles, are social creatures. They enjoy spending time with their families and meet other dogs at the dog park. Early socialization is important for your Goldendoodle pup to get used to new people, pets and situations. Goldendoodle Training Sample Routine Goldendoodle puppy behavior is very much your responsibility. Puppies usually need to use the bathroom first thing in the morning. Tip 2: Feed your pup at the same time every day. This is a great way for your puppy to socialize with you and your family. Tip 3: Potty time around 30 to 60 minutes after each meal. Tip 4: Playtime or exercise after potty time. Playing with toys and shorter walks are perfect for baby Doodles. Tip 5: Puppies usually need to relieve themselves after exercise, as well. Puppies can sleep up to hours every day! Make sure no one distracts their sleep, as they need to rest. Tip 7: After naptime or being in their crate, take your pup for a bathroom break. Tip 8: Bedtime every day around the same time is also very useful to enforce a consistent routine. Remember that puppies around weeks of age need smaller portions and more frequent meals. Therefore, they will also need to go potty more frequently. And as we already said, all dogs and puppies are unique. This is a rough guideline that most Doodle owners find useful. Well, all dogs are unique, so there is no one size fits all approach in Goldendoodle training. However, there are a few main training methods that most dog owners find useful when training a Goldendoodle puppy. Of course, the younger your puppy is, the shorter their attention span. Usually, the general guideline is to start formal training at four to six months of age. However, keep in mind that first you should build a relationship and bond with your pup. Clicker Training Clicker training is one of the most popular Goldendoodle training methods that professional dog trainers use. It combines reward training with a small hand-held clicker that you will click every time you reward your pup for good behavior or when following a command. Your puppy will soon start associating the clicking sound with a reward. Therefore, your pup will also associate it with good behavior. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products 2. Positive Reinforcement Your behavior and attitude has a huge impact on your Goldendoodle pup. Always use positive reinforcement and do not scold or punish your pup for accidents. Remember, your puppy is still learning and growing. Instead, it will just make them fearful of you. Whenever you want your Goldendoodle puppy to do something, always keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude. If your pup has completed the task, always give plenty of praise and a nice little treat or a toy. Some dogs respond better to reward with food and others respond better to toys. However, always use these rewards together with lots of praise and enthusiasm. Crate Training Crate training is another very popular Goldendoodle training method. Crate training can take a few days or a few weeks, but the results are worth it. Keep in mind that you should only leave your pup in the crate in hours equal to the age in months that they are. See Also: Click the image 4. Mirror Training Mirror training method uses positive reinforcement and a clicker to teach a dog how to follow your lead. As your pup is looking up to you, they will naturally want to mimic your behavior and attitude. A great way to keep this from happening is to keep your kitchen counters clean and tidy at all times. Do not store food on counters longer than you prepare your meals. Surely you enjoy a clean kitchen, as well! Another tip is to put your pup in a crate or away from the kitchen while you prepare your meals. Jumping One of the very first things that you can start teaching your Goldendoodle puppy is to sit to be greeted. This will teach your puppy that they will only get attention once they sit. If you reward them, they will continue doing it. Barking With every common behavioral problem, the key is to think about what you want your puppy to do instead. How would you like them to react when someone is knocking on the door, or how should act when you have guests over? For instance, you can train your dog to sit still in a designated place when the doorbell rings. Leash Pulling When your puppy starts to pull the leash, immediately stop walking. Once your puppy has stopped pulling, you can start walking again. Doing this continuously will teach your puppy good leash manners. No-pull harnesses and headcollars can also be great tools for training your pup not to pull on the leash. See Also: Click the image 5. Make sure your pup has enough interesting toys and provide them plenty of playtime and exercise. Biting and Mouthing Biting is a completely natural behavior for dogs. As with any other behavioral problem, biting also can stem from your pup wanting your attention. Also, biting and mouthing might indicate that your pup needs more playtime. See Also: Click the image 7. What is a Goldendoodle? Background the influences training Goldendoodle Training Tips The key to enjoying your dog is to train them early or as soon as possible. After all, training your new puppy in socialization is part of their essential needs. Training your dog is a big undertaking, though. One that may seem daunting. Rest assured, though, you can do it yourself without expensive obedience classes. The first thing you need to do is build a strong foundation for training. Goldendoodle Training Timeline Infographic The infographic showing the Goldendoodle training timeline. Goldendoodle Puppy Training at Home First 30 days Puppies are born blind and deaf and cannot see or hear for the first ten to twenty days. However, they have a fantastic scent and touch abilities. Puppies are also aware of the temperature. If the mother is unavailable, humans can step in to help. Training sessions for newborns are short and to the point. These sessions consist of Bio-Sensor training, where they are stimulated with swabs like Q-Tips. Exercises can be performed along with exposing them to minor temperature changes. This will stimulate the brain and help them deal with stress. Mother dogs stimulate the senses from birth by licking and cleaning the puppies. This helps them develop. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. Wavy coat Goldendoodles come in all sizes from standard right down to Teacup Goldendoodles. Since dogs have scent receptors twenty-five times better than ours, they can smell things several hundred feet away. You should expose them to calming scents and daily scents of rain, grass, and other things outdoors. Then, their ears will open, and they will need to be introduced to sound. Dogs learn by association, so only play soothing sounds. As their eyes start to focus, you should start with colors. This will help build confidence. Goldendoodle Puppy Preschool and Earliest Socialization months of age At around three months of age, your Goldendoodle is full of energy and ready to play. But remember that they are still a baby — just an infant animal. It is so essential you practice positive reinforcement with your puppy and avoid punishment altogether. This is also the age your Goldendoodle is ready to learn basic commands. The first thing you should do is pick a definite marker. A positive marker is a word, sound, or phrase used to tell your dog they have done something right. Use the same marker every time. Also, you should follow it up with positive reinforcement in the form of a treat, playtime, or affection. Do Goldendoodles Smell? Reward your puppy often and early, so they associate the treat with the behavior. Negative reinforcement or punishment will likely do nothing but scare your puppy. Puppies will chew things and have accidents in the house. However, you should remember they are still learning, and any punishment is counterproductive. Simply correct the mistake and praise them when they do something right. The most important thing is to be consistent. Your puppy learns by doing, and repetition is the best thing for them. This is also the age where socialization is a critical part of their development. All this begins once the Goldendoodle has the all-clear from the Veterinarian to socialize in public. .During this age, your Goldendoodle should be exposed to new people, places, and animals every day. If your puppy shows fear or anxiety, take a step back. This is when you should begin doing gradual exposure. Safe introduction to different sizes and temperament dogs is important early If you introduce a dog to a household with cats , extra care needs to be taken early to ensure a long-term relationship of tolerance. Predicting Goldendoodle coat types is tricky. Goldendoodle Training for Safety and Basic Commands 3 months to one year At around four months old, your puppy will begin to develop preferences. Your job is to make them feel safe and secure in any environment. This way, your puppy will grow up to be confident, kind, and ready to take on anything. Positive reinforcement techniques are especially important during this stage. Any harsh punishment can have adverse effects on the Goldendoodles psyche. Since your puppy has had all his shots, they are ready to go to the dog park, daycare, and puppy training classes. This will help with socialization. Keep in mind that forcing your puppy to interact with others can hurt the bond you have with them. Always make sure your dog is enjoying the experience and is safe. Allow him to explore the world at his own pace. This I the time to start introducing your Goldendoodle to water. Early and frequently exposure will make taking your Goldendoodle to the pool or even the beach a breeze. Learning Commands Additionally, this is when puppies can begin learning commands like sit and stay. Teach them to sit before exiting with treats. Lure them into a sit by the door and begin to open it. If they get up too quickly, close the door. Keep up this game until the dog remains seated and patiently waits for the door. When they do, give them a treat. Most puppies are highly motivated by treats and food. If they anxiously await each meal or immediately pounce on the food bowl when it is set down, this is an excellent opportunity to work on self-control. Before every meal, have your Goldendoodle wait to eat. Place the food down and say stay. If they lunge for the bowl, take it away for five minutes. Start with a five-second wait and gradually increase it by five-second increments. This will allow their self-control to get better. Another great Goldendoodle training tip is the Four on the Floor for those puppies that jump on anyone entering your home. Practicing this technique can stop the puppy from jumping up on unsuspecting bystanders and knocking over kids. When you come home, and your Goldendoodle is happy to see you, make him sit before saying hello. Give an ear rub or greeting only when all four paws are on the ground. Training a Goldendoodle to Enjoy Grooming All ages Start grooming your puppy at a young age and practice handling with this Goldendoodle training tips: Work when your puppy is relaxed and not hyper. Keep grooming sessions short like a few brush strokes or clipping a few toenails. Use a quality slicker brush that will not hurt your Goldendoodle Practice frequently, like weekly. Pair it with a treat. Lightly touch-sensitive spots like between the paws or on the ears from an early age Consider buying a grooming table early so your Goldendoodle can get used to it if you are going to be DIY grooming your Goldendoodle at home. See the best grooming tables specifically for Goldendoodles. Advanced Goldendoodle Training Options 12 months plus, agility, and advanced classes The American Kennel Club, or AKC, says that once dogs learn basic commands, they can move on to advanced training or sports. You may opt to teach them scent training. Treibball, a German dog sport not just for herding breeds , is when the dog drives eight oversized inflatable balls into a goal. They can also do obstacle courses and test their agility. Scent training is also a fantastic way to mentally enrich your dog and stimulate their brain daily. Scent training starts as simple as a muffin tin game at home. Then advanced courses do wonders and can result in some very complicated tricks and habits forming. While they vary in size depending on their parents since Poodles range from mini to medium , they almost always have hypoallergenic hair and rarely shed. You can see which types of Goldendoodle shed the least in our Goldendoodle Coat Prediction article. Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and lovable dogs that are ideal for families with children or other pets. Goldendoodles typically weigh anywhere from forty-five to pounds. Still, they can weigh as little as fifteen pounds if a parent was a miniature Poodle. The smallest Goldendoodles are Teacup and Toy Goldendoodles. They have a height of thirteen to twenty-six inches with a curly coat in red, black, gold, cream, brown, white, or grey. Goldendoodles are very friendly, affectionate, playful, and trainable. Goldendoodles became popular in the s for their hypoallergenic , non-shedding Poodle-like fur and having the temperament of a Golden Retriever, the most popular dog breed in the U. They have been used as pets, agility dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs, diabetic dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Goldendoodles are in the top five of the smartest dog breeds. When you choose a Goldendoodle, rest assured you are getting an intelligent, athletic, loving companion, the whole family can enjoy. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. There might be days or even weeks when it seems to regress, but as long as you stay calm and stick to the training schedule and daily routine, your doodle puppy will thrive. Remember, the younger your pup is, the shorter its attention span and the less it understands. A lot of the earliest work involves planting seeds for the future and maintaining that consistent routine. Many goldendoodles respond best to one or more of the following methods: Positive Reinforcement Your number one tool as a puppy parent is positive reinforcement. Scolding and punishment will make it fear you, which might garner very short-term results but will ultimately lead to long-term problems like destructive behavior, biting and excessive barking. Use a mixture of praise and toys as your primary rewards, with food used as big rewards and treats very occasionally. Clicker Training Many puppies respond best to clicker training, and many professionals use it. It combines positive reinforcement with a handheld clicker that you press whenever you reward your pet for following a command or behaving well. Very quickly, it starts associating the click with a reward, until the clicker itself becomes the reward and a treat is no longer required. Animals are territorial by nature, and giving your pup a little island of its own in your home is a great way to prevent unwanted behaviors. Remember, the crate is not a punishment. However, like every breed, they have their character quirks. Below is a list of the main issues doodle owners encounter and how to approach them. Jumping All dogs have the potential to get excited and jump up on people when they meet or greet them, but this can be scary for strangers and children. Teach your doodle puppy that it only gets a reward if it sits when greeted and this behavior will eventually become second nature. Stealing Food Every dog loves to eat. A clicker can be particularly good for this behavior. Mouthing and Biting Biting is natural for dogs, and they might use it as a way to get your attention in addition to it being a sign of aggression. Check out our training program to find out more. If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend. In fact, good dog training schools will conduct interviews before starting obedience training to develop a training plan with the pet owner. Dog Obedience Training Method: Clicker Training When it comes to obedience training, clicker training is a very popular dog training technique among certified dog trainers. Clicker training for dogs involves the use of a hand-held device that creates a clicking sound. Over time, the dog begins to associate the clicking sound with the reward. Once the dog is reliable in his obedience skills, the food rewards are given only occasionally, but the clicking continues on a consistent basis, serving as an indicator of praise for the dog. If you need a clicker, you can find them at a pet store or on Amazon. Goldendoodle training is similar to training most puppies since they are a mix between a golden retriever and a poodle, which means that rewarding with treats usually works well. Many dogs have a very high food drive. Food rewards can work well for a dog obedience training reward in these dogs. A food reward can consist of a traditional dog treat or other less traditional pet treat foods like baby carrots, pieces of cheese, cold cuts, hot dog bits, or other high-value foods. The food also serves as an effective, high-value reward for the dog. Obedience Training Methods for Dogs: Toy Rewards Dogs who have a high prey drive — like sighthounds such as the greyhound breed, will often place a higher value on toy rewards like a ball. Or use my affiliate link to find this dog toy that we have it has 11, 5-star reviews on Amazon! Toy rewards are good for the dog that would be apt to pick the toy when presented with an option between a treat and a toy. Certified dog trainers who are working with clients who undergo frequent dog training courses, such as a police dog or a cadaver dog, will typically opt to use toy and play rewards since toys can be used for specialized dog training. In essence, the working dog learns to detect drugs by seeking his toy during retrieval exercises. Obedience Training Using Praise as a Reward This approach is good when training a very people-oriented dog and in tune with his humans. When we want to reward good dog behavior, especially when house training, we use praise with food rewards. Often, praise is used in conjunction with toy rewards, clicker training, or food rewards. Occasionally, a dog trainer may use praise and attention alone to teach certain obedience training commands. Conclusion What Is Crate Training? So, what even is crate training? As the name suggests, it is the process of training your pup to sleep overnight in his crate. Crate training has loads of benefits for pet parents. Traveling A crate-trained pooch is an absolute must for frequent flyers. Your dog must be crated on trains, planes, and buses, which really helps if he is crated in the car. This keeps your pup and other passengers safe. Protect Your Pup When I was renovating my kitchen, my dog was completely intrigued by the noises of the construction. Every time the jackhammer would start up, he would run toward the kitchen to investigate. So, I had to speed up my crate training process to safely crate my pooch in my room for a couple of hours a day. Crating your pup also keeps him safe from household supplies that can seriously harm him, including rat bait, mouse bait, fabric softener sheets, antifreeze, or insecticides. Protect Your Home Sometimes, even the most well-behaved pup tends to behave a little naughty. This could manifest in destructive behaviors like ripping up cushions, peeing in random corners of the house, and getting into the trash. To prevent this, teaching your dog to enter his crate all by himself is good. Potty Training Since dogs are den animals, they are naturally predisposed to keeping their toilet area separate from their sleeping area. This will foster the habit of peeing on the pad, which is invaluable for further potty training. A common question that pet parents of Goldendoodles have: Are Doodle puppies easy to crate train? Or can a Goldendoodle be crate trained? The answer is yes! Thanks to their Poodle genes , Goldendoodle puppies are extremely intelligent. Thanks to their Golden Retriever genes, they are also very eager to please. This winning combination makes most types of training a breeze! With consistency, hard work, and dedication, you will definitely be able to crate-train your Goldendoodle pooch. Crate Training Steps So, how exactly do you start crate training? Or how do you train a Goldendoodle to sleep in a crate? Start by selecting the best crate for your Doodle puppy. The crate should have enough ventilation holes if you live in a warm, humid climate. This will keep your pup more comfortable with entering the crate. Keep the crate near you in an area with a lot of foot traffic. Let your dog investigate the crate of his own volition. Do not close the door yet, even if your pup enters. Use Cues Now that your dog is used to entering the crate, you need to start associating the action of entering the kennel with a verbal command. Reinforce the Commands At this point, the most important thing is to reinforce the verbal commands you have laid the foundation for. When he does, give him tons of treats and verbal praise. Close the Door At this point, you are ready to start closing the kennel door. Once your Goldendoodle is able to enter the kennel once you say the command, you will begin to close the door after him. After a few weeks of training, you will find that crate training your Goldendoodle puppy at night is a breeze! Crate Training Schedule So, how do you schedule your crate training process? Week 1 Acclimation This first week should be all about getting your dog comfortable with the presence of the crate. A large crate can look intimidating to a teeny tiny pup. This will entice your pooch to stick his head in, and he will become more comfortable with entering the crate. If you throw in a few toys or treats, your dog is more likely to enter. Week 3 Closed-Door Training Now, each time your dog enters, shut the door behind him. Keep it closed for only a few minutes, let him out, and then reward him heavily with treats! You can also test out the verbal cues you established in the previous week. Weeks Continuing Training As your Goldendoodle starts to get comfortable with being in the crate with the door closed, you can increase the length of time he is in there. Slowly increase it by 30 seconds at a time, repeated multiple times throughout the day. Eventually, you will be able to leave him in there for hours at a time! You can even try to leave your Goldendoodle in the crate overnight, but let him out if he whines for more than 15 minutes. Do not leave your pooch in the crate for more than 6 hours. Week 6 Overnight Crating Now, you can try leaving your pup in the crate overnight. Take your dog out for a potty break, give him tons of exercise, and keep a potty pad in the crate. Lead him to the crate and gently close the door behind him. Take him out for a bathroom break at least 30 minutes before you begin training. In a few weeks, your dog will be totally comfortable with dozing off in his kennel overnight! Goldendoodles are an exceptionally smart breed that responds great to consistent training and positive reinforcement. If you have any other tips to make crate training a little easier, then leave a comment below. Thanks for reading! As she grew older, this love transformed into a love for dogs. She volunteers in a dog shelter, so she is well-versed in the care and comfort of all breeds of dogs. Leave a Comment. There is so much your little guy needs to learn to be a polite, lifelong family companion — where do you even begin? We are here to give you a broad overview of some basic tips of where to start with teaching your new buddy. Follow these three steps to begin training your 8 week old doodle puppy. The good news is if you welcome a JLDD puppy, we have already done some of the hard work with crate training for you. At JLDD we introduce all of our puppies to the crate at weeks of age! First, they are first placed in a crate with another littermate. As they get older, they begin to spend small amounts of individual time in the crate each day. We give our pups an excellent head start, but as the owner, it is up to you to follow through with structured crate time even if your pup objects at first. The first few days can be extremely difficult, but your consistency will pay off. Many owners find it difficult to be consistent because of their worry that their dog is miserable with crate training and, true enough, the puppies can sound really pitiful in there. But stay strong and remember that you are actually helping them in the long run to have a safe place when they must be left alone. A good crate training foundation will be very helpful in curbing separation anxiety and will make traveling, boarding, grooming, etc. Once the pup accepts the crate as his personal space, he will often go there on his own to rest. Keeping a routine is key so your pup knows what to expect. Allow pup to settle for about five minutes before you let him or her out. The only time this does not apply is in the middle of the night. Potty Training When people ask what they need to know before buying a doodle , this is the big one! And it can be very intimidating for owners. Bring all your consistency and patience! Keep in mind most puppies will not be fully potty trained until at least weeks. We start our young pups on puppy pad training so puppy pads can be a helpful stepping stone to outdoor potty training when you first bring your dood home. Keeping the area small and puppy pads easily accessible will help your pup stay consistent. Many owners find it is an easy transition to slowly move the puppy pads to the designated outdoor area closer to the door, then right outside the door, etc. Other owners prefer to jump straight into outdoor potty training. Here are a few basic tips: Frequent potty breaks. When your doodle is awake and playing, taking him out as frequently as every 30 minutes is important when they are young. When pup does potty, immediately praise and reward him with a treat. Always use the same exit to take your puppy out. This will help them learn where to head when the urge strikes! Eagle Eye. Scolding your pup for an accident after the fact is generally ineffective as he will not connect the discipline to the moment of the accident. We work on basic obedience and conditioning as early as weeks with our pups at JLDD by waiting until the pups sit to give their food and treats. Remember that basic obedience is critical for establishing the owner-dog relationship early on. It teaches your doodle that he must look to you for direction and when treats are involved that looking to the human for direction is lots of fun! Doodle puppies are extremely clever and can easily learn the basics such as sit, stay, down and come in their first couple weeks at home with you. Stay positive and keep training sessions short. End the session if you find yourself feeling frustrated for any reason. Furthermore, doodles are a sensitive breed and generally highly trainable so most respond quite well to positive training methods. Typically, simply ignoring unwanted behavior and rewarding the desired behavior will produce the intended results. If you're looking for a fully trained doodle to bring home, JLDD provides an awesome course for new puppies. We hope the advice in this article helps aid the teaching of your dog! Be sure to share your best tips with us at contact jennaleedoodles. Post not marked as liked4 Recent Posts.

You are cordially invited to be the guests of Adopt A Boxer Rescue on Sunday, December 10, , between AM and PM, for a valuable and informative foster home training seminar on canine behavior. Well known trainer Kim Barnett from England, of Follow My Lead, will explore pack dynamics and how being a good leader benefits the dogs we love and care for. Foster homes and adoptive homes thinking about adding a member to the pack, as well as transporters, etc. The seminar is free, the information invaluable, and Kim makes it all very interesting and fun. Currently the location of the seminar is planned for western Suffolk County, Long Island, NY, exact location is subject to change should the seating exceed capacity. Please email us if you would like to attend and we will finalize the location and give you the details. Of course we are always looking for new foster homes, so if you have been looking at our available dogs page and wondering if you could do it, this is the time to learn what fostering is about. First come first serve, subject to seating capacity. Must register in advance. Looking forward to seeing you there! Adopt A Boxer Rescue wants you to join us on Sunday, December 10, , between AM and PM, for a valuable and informative foster home training seminar on canine behavior. Currently the location of the seminar is planned for western Suffolk County, Long Island exact location is subject to change should the seating exceed capacity. Come out and have a fun day! Oakley is a handsome 5. His fosters think he's also mixed with Lab and will grow to be approximately pounds. A few Fun Facts about Oakley: He has two dew claws on each of his rear legs, when he hears his food or treats getting prepared he will chatter his teeth in excitement, he is SO cuddly and loves snuggles! Oakley is a sweet puppy who just wants to be by your side. He gets along great with other dogs and loves playing and following their lead. Oakley also enjoys going for walks and is fantastic on a leash! He knows that when he's done eating, it's time to go in the yard to use the bathroom. Oakley is very smart and eager to please. He is also very treat motivated and has mastered the command "sit". He also sleeps through the night in his crate. Some of his favorite things are kongs stuffed with peanut better , snuggling with his humans, sun bathing, playing in his kiddie pool and squeaky toys! If your family wants the sweetest, most loyal pup who will snuggle up next to you and loves to be in your company, Oakley is the perfect match! Oakley is currently being fostered in Avenel, NJ. The adoption fee covers a portion of these services, and makes it possible for us to continue rescuing animals. An application does not obligate you to adopt. Please understand that due to the volume of applications some animals receive, we are unable to contact all applicants. If your application is considered a good fit for the animal you are interested in, or even a different pet, a volunteer will give you a call as soon as possible. We are a foster based rescue and do not have a shelter location where animals can be seen during the week. Not all animals attend every adoption event, please check our Facebook page for animal event times and locations before you make a trip to meet a specific animal.

They are intelligent and easily trained, making them a popular choice for families. They are also active and enjoy spending time outdoors. These pups typically have a calm demeanor, but they can also be playful and energetic. This easygoing nature makes them excellent companions for families with young children or seniors. All of these factors make the English Cream Lab an ideal pet for anyone looking for a loyal and loving companion. English Cream Lab Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our English Cream Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our English Cream Lab puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Allergies are the most common concern, and can be caused by anything from pollen to food ingredients. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint problems that can cause pain and mobility issues. Eye problems can range from minor infections to more serious conditions such as glaucoma. Finding an English Cream Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While they may look like they require a lot of grooming, English Cream Labs are actually quite low maintenance when it comes to their coat. A weekly brushing is usually sufficient to remove any dead hair and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. And while they do shed, it is typically not as much as other breeds. When it comes to coat care, the key is to be gentle and avoid using harsh shampoos or chemicals that can strip the natural oils from their coat. With a little care and attention, your English Cream Lab will have a beautiful coat that is the envy of all your friends. We are certified professional breeders and trainers that aim to excel in continuing the superior bloodline of white English Labrador retriever puppies. Our puppies are raised to be family members, and each purebred white Labrador retriever puppy that we raise can make an excellent companion. Boasting a docile, patient, and friendly temperament, our puppies are more than ready to join your family, no matter the size or experience level. Simply put, you get the best when you choose Snowy Pines White Labs for your white Labrador retriever puppies. There, you can take a tour and meet the dams, sires, and puppies. But before you do, take the time to get to know us and why we are different from any other breeder. Snowy Pines White Labs is certified by the American Kennel Club , the longest-running organization that verifies the bloodline of purebred dogs and ethical practices of breeders. For years, AKC has been the top-rated registry of purebred dogs, proving to be the number-one trusted expert in all breeds. Being certified by the AKC verifies our practices and our white Labrador retriever bloodlines. All of our dams and sires have been approved by the AKC, which means that there is proper proof that our dogs are true purebred white Labrador puppies. We love him! I carry him around like a big toddler! We made it home today and everyone is happy!! We are so thrilled with him. Hi Tom, we have 2 excited boys and 2 exhausted puppies! Thanks for everything, we will continue to send photos! Instead, we want to quench their curiosity by offering plenty of time to exercise, play, and socialize with each other. The best way we do that is by giving them free rein of our acre property , huddled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Just as important, we also treat our puppies like family. From the second they are born to the moment they leave, they are treated like one of our own. So after a long day of play, our puppies are welcomed into their sqft centrally heated and cooled kennel home where they receive specialized attention. In between play and rest, our dogs and puppies have access to five-acre pens where they can safely play until one of our members are ready to take them onto the property. At night, the puppies rest in large heated or cooled kennels with their siblings to prepare for another day of exploration and playtime. Healthy Puppies The puppies are kept on a nutritious diet from the time the weaning process begins until the time they leave our home. Superior Bloodline Here at Snowypines, we are confident in the superior bloodline of our dogs. Full Replacement Snowy Pines offers a full replacement guarantee against genetic defects in our puppies for five years!! The longest guarantee in the US!! State of the art Facility We have an excellent facility where dogs can be inside the heated and cooled kennel or in the large 5-acre pens. Our Puppies we are the best! We work hard to bring the best puppies into the lives of families all around the United States. We are passionate about what we do, which is why we always have the proper certifications, health screenings, and socialization to ensure we produce the best pedigree white Labrador retriever puppies in the world. There, you can meet our dams, sires, and available white Labrador retriever puppies. Going forward, we will walk you through the adoption process, where every question or concern you have will be answered immediately. Additionally, you can watch our Puppy Live Stream here. At Snowy Pines White Labs, you can bring home your new companion for life within weeks. See our available puppies or contact us to take a tour of our facility today! We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us.

Coming home to your fluffy pets runny nose can be a bit of an issue, especially if the discharge is thick to purulent. Seasonal changes not only affect us humans but our furry babies as well. No matter how common this is with your English Bulldog, it is still important to know the underlying cause. Why does my English Bulldog have a runny nose? The other reasons can be a lung or respiratory tract infection, cleft palate, abscessed teeth, or even as fatal as cancer. If you are not able to figure out the reason behind this issue, it is important to take him to a vet where he will get examined properly. When in doubt, take him to the vet and get him examined thoroughly. Here are a few common causes for a runny nose. Allergy: If the nasal discharge is clear the chances are that it is caused by allergies. Just how people can be allergic to pollen, drugs, mites, spores, food, and chemicals, dogs can be too. You may witness eye discharge, itchiness, coughing, and sneezing. It might be difficult for him to breathe. Blockage: Clear discharge from one of the nostrils of your dog can be a sign of something stuck in that nostril. It could be a seed or even grass. Infection: A discharge accompanied by mucus or pus could be an indication that your dog has a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. The other signs could be a nosebleed or choking. Polyps and Tumors: Blood or pus with nasal discharge could be a sign of nasal polyps or tumors. If there is a bulge on one side of the nose or you notice noisy breathing you must immediately rush him to a vet. There are also chances that his appetite may decrease. Nostril Problems: Some breeds of dogs are more prone to nasal discharge than the others. This includes flat-faced breeds and also the dogs with floppy nose cartilage. Noisy breathing can be another sign of this issue. Distemper: Distemper is a viral disease of dogs which causes fever and coughing. It can also cause a sticky, yellow nose discharge. There may even be pneumonia, twitching, and convulsions. How to Treat a Runny Nose in a Bulldog Whatever the reason may be, once you have consulted your vet, you will be able to diagnose the problem and treat it well. Based on the reasons written above, here are some of the ways to deal with a runny nose. Avoid triggering the allergy. Your vet may suggest an allergy test or treatment that includes antihistamines, steroids, and immunosuppressants. He might need to sedate your pet before removing the blockage. If there is an infection, the treatment solely depends on the cause. For bacterial infection, the vet may prescribe antibiotics. Fungal infections require antifungal drugs. It the infection is persistent the vet might even have to operate your dog. The treatment for polyps involves surgery most of the time. Polyps tend to reappear, therefore additional treatment may be necessary. However, if the reason behind the nasal discharge is a tumor the treatment options may vary. A benign tumor can be removed although the success rate is quite low. The cancerous tumors can be managed with radiation since the removal is rarely successful. Surgery might be required for dogs with small flat nostrils and for those with a cartilage problem. Your vet may delay the surgery until the dog turns into an adult. When your vet is sure that it is distemper based on the symptoms, he will include antibiotics, sedatives, anticonvulsants, and painkillers in the treatment. Another way to prevent distemper is by vaccinating your puppies three times between the age of 8 to 16 weeks and vaccinating breeding females weeks before mating. Cleft palates or oral-nasal fistulas can only be treated with the help of surgery. A cold is caused by a group of viruses and possess symptoms such as sore throat, coughing, and sneezing. In dogs, the case is almost similar. There is also a group of viruses that can cause cold in dogs. Some breeds like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Pekingese are more prone to respiratory diseases than other breeds. This means that the symptoms may be more severe with them. A few of the symptoms of a cold among English Bulldog can be: Coughing. Common bacterial causes of CIRDC include: Bordetella bronchiseptica Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus Mycoplasma spp CIRDC is spread through direct contact and is typically diagnosed by veterinarians after a dog's owner notices abrupt coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge. These symptoms often occur after a number of animals have shared a common space, like a pet care facility, for example. Treatment is determined by the severity of the disease i. Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases. The irritation they cause to nasal passages can cause runny noses in dogs. These mites can affect all kinds of dogs, regardless of breed, sex, or age. Apart from nasal discharge, other symptoms of nasal mites include nosebleeds, sneezing, impaired smell, itchiness around the face, labored or noisy breathing, and head shaking. Nasal aspergillosis in particular is a fungal infection that affects many animals, both domestic and wild. There are several species of Aspergillus known to trigger respiratory infections in animals. Oftentimes, the infection will be localized in the nasal cavity or sinuses of a dog, but in rare cases it may spread to the eyes and skull. Treatment of nasal aspergillosis typically involves the prescription of antifungal medication, which is administered either orally or nasally. Dogs have a magnificent sense of smell and regularly put their nose to work in exploring the world around them. This, in turn, can lead to nasal discharge in dogs, as well as general irritation and nosebleeds. If left untreated, the foreign object could lead to infection or worse. Nasal cancer A runny nose in a dog is one symptom of a nasal tumor. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, facial deformities, and neurologic abnormalities. To diagnose a nasal tumor, your vet may first order a CT scan to understand the scope of the condition. From there, they may conduct a tissue biopsy and extract tissue from around the nasal area. If nasal cancer is diagnosed, there are a few treatments that can be attempted. Definitive radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and stereotactic radiation therapy SRT may be employed to fight cancer. However, if the cancer has spread into the bones, life-saving treatment may not be possible. Instead of sweating throughout their body, dogs sweat on the pads of their feet and, sometimes, through their noses. Promptly reporting symptoms will help your vet determine an accurate diagnosis. An early diagnosis also means that treatment can start sooner, which enables your pup to get quick relief. At this point, your vet may order a range of tests to help facilitate an accurate diagnosis. For instance, a rhinoscopy, x-rays, or other lab work may be ordered to dig deeper and discover the root of the issue. Below, we explain some of the available treatment methods for the causes described earlier in the article. An allergy test or elimination diet trial may help to shed some light on the allergen affecting your dog. Infections In the case of infections, antibiotics are often needed to combat harmful bacteria. This object may not only be the reason your dog has a runny nose, but also can serve as a source of pain and irritation. Nasal cancer As we mentioned above, treatments such as radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and stereotactic radiation therapy SRT can be effective in battling nasal cancer in dogs. However, once cancer spreads to crucial areas such as the bones, little can be done to treat it. If the nasal discharge is clear, it may be a sign of a seasonal allergy or a reaction to the heat. However, if nasal discharge is discolored, bloody, or has pus in it, you should take your dog to the vet. When in doubt, schedule a consultation with your vet. What can you give a dog for a runny nose? If allergies are at fault, then allergy medicine may help soothe symptoms. If an infection is the root cause, then antibiotics may prove effective. In any case, always talk to your vet before administering medication to your dog. Final Notes A sense of smell is central to a dog—it allows them to perceive the world around them and better understand their environment. Beyond that, you may be worried that a runny nose is a sign of a more serious underlying health condition in your dog. While some serious ailments such as cancer are associated with runny noses in dogs, other causes tend to be more mild. If your dog has a runny nose, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Dutch is also the only pet telemedicine company that can facilitate the delivery of prescription medication right to your door. Get to the bottom of why your dog has a runny nose so that you can provide your pup with the treatment they deserve. Set up a consultation with Dutch today to access high-quality treatment and premium pet care, all from the comfort of your own home. Published on Nov 12, and updated at Apr 04, .Struggling to breathe. Treatment If your vet suspects your English Bulldog has an allergy, they will perform an allergy test in order to confirm it. Once the allergy is confirmed, you will be able to reduce allergic reactions by avoiding the allergy trigger altogether. Symptoms As well as this isolated nasal discharge, other common signs of a blockage in the nose include nosebleeds, sneezing and pawing at the nose. Treatment Here, you have a choice of either treating the blockage at home or at the vets. If you can see the cause of the blockage and have a steady hand, you can probably remove the blockage yourself with tweezers. The inside of the nose is incredibly sensitive, so even a small cut could lead to a lot of bleeding. Polyps and tumours Some English Bulldogs have excessive nasal discharge as a result of growths in their nose. Nasal polyps are the medical term for overgrown mucus-producing glands, whilst nasal tumours, which present similar symptoms, can be benign or cancerous. Symptoms If you suspect your English Bulldog has growths in the nose, look out for the following symptoms: Blood, pus and mucus being discharged from the nose. A decreased appetite. Noisy breathing. Treatment Of course, if you see any kind of growth on your English Bulldog, it is paramount that you take them to the vets to be assessed. Polyps and benign nasal tumours are often treated with surgery. Given the fact that polyps tend to reappear, your English Bulldog may need multiple bouts of surgery. Nasal and sinus infections English Bulldogs can also catch sinus infections. This may be from other animals or from coming into contact with something unsavoury outside. They can catch bacterial, fungal or viral infections. Symptoms Although symptoms may vary based on the type of infection, some of the most common symptoms of an infection in your English Bulldog include: Green or yellow mucus or pus being discharged from their nose, which is often followed by coughing and choking. Nose bleeds. A pungent and unusual odor. If your English Bulldog is suffering from a fungal infection, your vet will prescribe you specialist anti-fungal drugs, whereas if your English Bulldog has a bacterial infection, your vet will put them on a course of antibiotics. If an English Bulldog ends up having frequent infections which is often the result of a poor immune system, a lack of vaccinations or an underlying illness , your vet may decide that the best course of action is an operation. However, it is also important to trust your judgement if you think something is not right about the nasal discharge or runny nose. With their help, your English Bulldog will be back to their old selves in no time! You might also like… If you are an English Bulldog owner then here are a few other things to look out for in your pup:. Runny noses and sneezes abound for us humans, as new plants bloom in the fall. But did you know that your dog can have a runny nose too? Dog runny noses are more correctly called nasal discharge. It can run the gamut from clear and watery to thick and purulent. The appearance and frequency of nasal discharge in dogs can tell you much about the underlying cause. Could My Dog Have Allergies? In Short, Yes. A thin, watery discharge without color or odor is likely a sign of mild irritation in the nasal cavities. This can occur with seasonal allergies or other causes of inflammation within the nose such as an inhaled foreign object grass and seeds. In some cases, antihistamines will clear up the discharge without further incident. Dogs do sometimes respond to environmental allergens just as humans do—with red, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. More Serious Causes of Dog Runny Noses In cases where the discharge is thick, has odor, or discoloration with blood or pus, more serious causes are suspected. Any exposure to dogs otherwise? If both nostrils are involved, the causes are frequently different than if only one nostril. Both nostrils points to a more generalized cause while one nostril points to a localized source. If the discharge is clear, thin, and watery, your veterinarian may try antihistamines and monitoring at home for any other signs. If none develop, and your dog seems otherwise healthy, it may be normal for a small amount of discharge to occur. No further treatment may be needed. If the discharge continues or worsens, then more diagnostics are needed. In the case of unilateral discharge one nostril involved , the causes could include an inhaled foreign body such as grass or grass awns leading to rhinitis, a fungal infection, or a nasal tumor. Your veterinarian will likely try a course of antibiotics. If no response occurs, then the next step is generally a rhinoscopy. In this procedure, your dog will be anesthetized, a camera will be inserted into the nostril to look at the area, and samples will be taken for culture and biopsy. In some cases, a CT scan of the head is needed to make a definitive diagnosis. If both nostrils are involved, this points to a more generalized problem such as a viral or bacterial infection. Dogs are prone to both especially if they board at a kennel, visit the dog park, or go to grooming facilities. Canine influenza is becoming more common in the dog population. In this case, concurrent with the runny nose would be a fever, sneezing and coughing, lethargy, and often lack of appetite. Pneumonia is a possible side effect. Canine kennel cough , a common bacterial complex, can also cause a nasal discharge. This generally occurs when the disease progresses to pneumonia. Summary In the case of a dog with no other symptoms and some clear nasal discharge, a runny nose is not cause for immediate concern. It is when your pet develops other symptoms such as red, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, fever, lack of appetite, or lethargy that a trip to the veterinarian is warranted.

Welcome to Sun Prairie Farms We specialize in breeding beautiful white golden retrievers, sometimes referred to as English Cream Golden Retrievers on our small family farm in central Illinois. We are located within 20 minutes of Springfield, Illinois and 10 minutes to Decatur Illinois. We strive to provide puppies from parents with wonderful temperaments and sound health. We enjoy pairing well rounded puppies with loving forever family homes. If you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy to your home please contact us to be added to our puppy waitlist list so you can pick out the perfect puppy for your family. We are located near Decatur, Illinois however we can deliver puppies all over the United States. All of our puppies are given Early Neurological Stimulation starting at just 3 days old. All of our puppies are raised in our home surrounded by children, other pets and acclimated to many different noises and stimulus. We strive to provide well rounded companions. There is nothing like the smile from a Golden Retriever! Our Goldens are part of our family! If you would like one of our pups to become part of your family please see our Puppy Page to learn more. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Illinois Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Illinois? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Illinois? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We are doing our best to adhere to Covid regulations. Social distancing is encouraged and masks are required for entry into the building. Adoptions:We are open for walk-ins Monday - Friday noon to 5pm and Saturday noon to 4pm. Adoptable pets can be viewed online at www. You are welcome to visit the shelter any time during normal business hours, but if you would like to visit with an animal one on one, we ask that you already have an approved application on file. You can find the application at dmcasf. Please allow staff hours to reach out about your application status. Applications stay on file for 30 days. Missing Pet:If your family is missing a pet, please visit www. If you see your pet, please call us at , you may need to leave a voice mail due to limited staff. We encourage everyone to check the shelter in person if you are missing an animal. You can visit any time during regular business hours to check for your missing loved one. Field Services: If you feel you have an animal control-related issue that needs to be addressed, please call Ext. Found a pet:Call us at to report a found pet and seek assistance in locating a possible owner. Contact Info.Business Hours Phone Number: a. Mon-Fri 8a-5p2. After Hours Phone Number: a. Mon-Fri 5p-8ab.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd Nutritional Requirements Other than simply minding the amount of food to feed a German Shepherd, you should also consider the quality of the food and the nutrients that it provides. Feeding your German Shepherd with low-quality dog food will cause malnutrition and lead to overeating and health issues like poor skin, gastrointestinal issues, and osteoarthritis. That said, not all protein and fats are created equal. And so, do also consider the sources of such nutrients. Choosing The Right Dog Food For Your German Shepherd Since puppies have different nutritional needs as compared to adult German Shepherds, it can be quite confusing to determine which food you should get for your dog. After all, commercial dog food companies have made it easy by producing specially formulated dog food that provides specific nutrients a dog needs based on breed and age. That said, there are a lot of choices in the market out there. For evening meals, it would be best if you feed your German Shepherd a few hours before bedtime. Mealtime Length Finally, as much as possible, set about a maximum mealtime length of 15 minutes. That amount of time would be sufficient enough for your German Shepherd to eat its fill and will help prevent your dog from becoming a picky eater. However, to get your puppy used to eating dry food, you would want to introduce dry food starting at around 4 to 6 weeks of age. To do so, soften up dry food by mixing it with milk replacer, and offer it to your puppy 3 to 4 times a day. As your puppy gets used to eating the food, gradually decrease the amount of milk replacer until the puppy eventually adapts to eating solid food. Your puppy should get used to eating dry and solid food by around 8 weeks of age. For a large breed like the German Shepherd, you should start transitioning into adult food starting at around 12 to 24 months old. Make sure to do this switch slowly over a one to two week period by mixing and gradually increasing the adult food with the puppy food to avoid or minimize gastric upset. This is as senior dogs typically require fewer calories due to lower energy needs brought about by lesser activity and slower digestion. Therefore, to keep your senior German Shepherd in shape, you must consider a low-calorie, high-fiber, and moderate protein and fat diet. Usually, you can keep on feeding your senior dog with a decreased amount of its adult food or with specially formulated food for older dogs. But, considering older dogs may already have medical conditions that need to be addressed, your best bet would be to consult with a veterinarian to come up with the ideal diet for your senior German Shepherd. As a general guideline, do not provide your dog with supplements unless directed by a veterinarian. Water Aside from providing your German Shepherd with food, also always remember to give it enough water to hydrate. If possible, provide your German Shepherd free access to clean and fresh drinking water to prevent dehydration. And as always, if you find yourself needing help, you can always consult with a veterinarian. Post navigation. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

What Is a Morkie Poo? Image credit: henry. They are a cross between a Maltese, a Yorkshire Terrier, and a Poodle, so they are inherently active and energetic. Compared to other crossbreeds, their size is relatively small. Another trait of these dogs is that they shy away from strangers at first, but when they are given enough time to socialize, they get along pretty well. They rarely shed, too, which is another plus factor in owning them. Some Morkie Poos who take after their Maltese and Yorkie parents have domed skulls. Note that these physical traits may still vary because they are a crossbreed. Here are some videos for you to have a better visual of Morkiepoo puppies. Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Poodles are all dog breeds of a small variety. This is why the cross between these three is also relatively small. Fully grown Morkie Poos only weigh 4 to 12 pounds on average. However, it is necessary to add that their size also depends on their gender. Usually, a male Morkie Poo weighs 6 to 12 pounds, while a female pup is around 4 to 8 pounds. There is also a slight difference between the male and the female Morkie Poo in terms of height. An adult female has a height range of 6 to 8 inches, while an adult male is normally 7 to 10 inches tall. Meanwhile, if they have gotten the hair characteristic of their Poodle parent, their coat is more frizzy but equally adorable. This gives them a more vulnerable yet pristine appearance. Black Image credit: bentleys. Brown Image credit: mamba. There are other shades of this color, but the pup in the picture below is medium brown. Tan Image credit: kali. Its coloring makes it look fluffier and gentle. The two-colored coat gives it a soft but edgy-looking appearance. If you are looking for a pet who is both visually pleasing and stress relieving, this hybrid may be the right one for you. They will keep following you and always ask for your cuddles. They are territorial, so it is best to socialize them with other animals while they are still young. They are very playful and energetic. They will enjoy going for a walk or a jog. They are brave and self-confident. They are smart, thanks to their Poodle parents. You can teach them a few tricks and simple commands. They have natural chase instincts like their Yorkie parents, but they are not that aggressive. A cousin of mine has a 2-year-old Morkie Poo, and he is very affectionate, even with strangers. It has a habit of jumping on your lap and positioning its head on your palm so you can give it a good head scratch. Either that or it will lie flat on its back, asking for a belly rub. However, it has always been an issue when my cousin leaves for work as it becomes very vocal, and when he gets home, a lot of his stuff is on the floor, like tissue paper, shoes, slippers, and rugs. Crate training has helped him manage this behavior in his Morkie Poo. Morkie Poo Lifespan and Health Issues If you are wondering how long can a Morkie Poo serve as your friend and companion, the answer is 10 to 13 years. When you choose to bring home a Morkie Poo, know that you are committing a decade of your life to take care of them. You should ensure that they are brought to a licensed veterinarian occasionally for necessary health check-ups. This is usually inherited from their parents and can eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. This is prevalent among most mixed breeds, not only the Morkie Poos. Treatment for this condition depends on its stage, but the initial solution is using eye drops. Tracheal Collapse: The trachea connects the throat to the lungs. The best way for this to be treated is through a combination of medication and surgery. Mixed breeds, such as the Morkie Poo, can also have low blood sugar which can affect their energy level. Though the Morkie Poo is prone to these illnesses, being disciplined with their regular vet routine should help you in optimizing their lifespans. This involves their feeding and diet, cleaning and grooming, and exercise and training. If you want to know more about its basic care, read on. Make sure that you offer them good quality kibble that does not contain too many carbohydrates. Gaining too much weight can lead to some health conditions like diabetes and slipped knees. Also, choose an appropriate kibble size for your Morkie Poo to avoid chances of choking. Cleaning and Grooming You need to groom your Morkie Poo to maintain its beautiful coat. One simple way of doing this is by trimming their hair regularly and brushing them to remove tangles and knots. You should also trim their nails, clean their eyes and ears, and bathe them every 15 to 30 days. Training and Exercise Since Morkie Poos are active pups, you should always walk them or give them time to play. You do not need to engage them in strenuous activities. Simple dog exercises will do as long as they consistently do it daily. However, some of them are stubborn, so you have to be persistent with your commands. This will make them realize that you are the boss and they have to obey you. This said, always ensure that you are only dealing with reputable breeders and avoid puppy mills at all costs. These unscrupulous breeders do not practice ethical breeding standards and can even sell you unhealthy puppies of poor quality, which is why their prices are usually much lower. Well, look no further since this section lists some breeders and rescue centers that you can contact if you are interested. Let us first look into places where you can find reputable breeders of Morkie Poos: Greenfield Puppies : Greenfield Puppies has been around since .They advertise reputable breeders of different dog varieties, including the Morkie Poo. Lancaster Puppies : Lancaster Puppies is another advertising website that offers both male and female Morkie Poos. Keystone Puppies : Keystone Puppies connect reputable breeders to dog enthusiasts. They do not raise or rescue puppies, but they offer a platform where breeders can post their dogs. Alternatively, you can also look into adoption to acquire your Morkie Poo. Here are some legitimate rescue organizations where you can source a Morkie Poo: Pet Rescue by Judie : Pet Rescue by Judie is an organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating companion animals. You can check out their website for Morkie Poos and other dog breeds. If you have decided to adopt one, you can set an appointment with them and meet the pet you are interested in. They were established in the year , and they have already rescued 13, dogs since then. You may browse their pets for adoption to check for Morkie Poos. You can also decide to foster or work as a volunteer for their organization. Check out their website if you want to learn more. Even with these suggestions, it is up to each future fur parent to thoroughly research the background of the puppy and the breeder you are dealing with. Morki Poos do not shed much, which makes them the best option for those who have allergies. However, they require constant brushing because their hair can quickly become unruly. Full grooming, which includes trimming, is also recommended every 2 to 4 weeks. Are Morkie Poos aggressive? Morkie Poos are not aggressive hybrids. However, they can become destructive if they are left alone for a long time. It would be better to have someone look after them if you leave for several days. You can also bring them with you if you are going somewhere that allows pets because they can easily fit inside your bag. Are Morkie Poos hard to potty train? Morkie Poos can be challenging to potty train because of their Maltese roots. You should also be patient and stay consistent for them to learn. Final Thoughts Morkie Poos are an ideal pet for those who love highly energetic dogs. You can practically bring them anywhere because they are small, and they would love that because they are clingy and very affectionate. Another good thing about owning them is that they are hypoallergenic. Just ensure that you groom them properly and occasionally bring them to the vet to check their overall health. What do you think of the Morkie Poo? Let us know your thoughts in the comments field below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. A Maltipoo Yorkie mix is a hybrid breed that consists of not one, not two, but three different dogs. All these dogs are somewhat similar in size, mannerisms, and characteristics. Combined, they create a unique dog perfect for families and children. Overall, these three dogs mixed are very social and enjoyable to have as a companion! A black and white Morkie Poo dog. Maltipoo Yorkies are a relatively new hybrid breed. Often, the closest thing found to a Maltipoo Yorkie is a Maltipoo , which is just a Maltese and Poodle mix. Rather than wait for a Maltipoo Yorkie to become available at a rescue or shelter, the smartest thing is to find a breeder that sells both Maltipoos and Yorkies and inquire about breeding them to create the perfect Maltipoo Yorkie mix. With Maltipoo Yorkies becoming more popular, this is worth a try. Dog breeders are constantly trying to breed the cutest, most in-demand dogs and Maltipoo Yorkies are just that. A young woman taking care of dogs in an animal shelter. As far as the coat color of Maltipoo Yorkies, again, there is a wide range of possibilities. Depending on how the genetics formulate in a particular dog, Maltipoo Yorkies can be entirely white like their Maltese parent, or they could be brown, tan, or black like their Poodle parent. Maltipoo Yorkies could also be black and brown like their Yorkshire Terrier parent. This feature is the beauty of hybrid dogs. An entire litter of Maltipoo Yorkies can be diverse and provide the buyer with more options than with a purebred dog. Maltipoo Yorkies are especially diverse. While Malteses, Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers are similar in size and temperament, their physical characteristics will always create a unique and attractive hybrid dog! Maltipoo Yorkie mixes are known to be loving, affectionate dogs. They take on the characteristics of most small lap dogs. A Maltipoo, which is a Maltese and Poodle mix, is known to be an intelligent , playful, and kind dog. Yorkshire Terriers are known to be confident, independent, and sassy dogs! While they are well-behaved, they exemplify strong personalities. When all three dogs combine into a Maltipoo Yorkie, they may dibble and dabble with these temperaments and characteristics. This average is expected since Malteses, Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers are all small to medium dogs. Yorkshire Terriers , one of the smallest dogs in existence, will weigh no more than 7 pounds and be no taller than 9 inches. Lastly, Poodles will weigh around 17 pounds and be no taller than 11 inches. Maltipoo Yorkie mix sits on the grass with his owner. Grooming should not be mistaken for receiving a simple haircut. Grooming a Maltipoo Yorkie consists of bathing , brushing, keeping nails up to par, cleaning eyes, and keeping fur trimmed. As mentioned before, Maltipoo Yorkies can have a wide variety of fur coats and textures. How often they need to be brushed depends on the texture of their fur. If a Maltipoo Yorkie has more Poodle characteristics than a Maltese or Yorkie, their fur will need to be brushed and detangled more frequently to prevent matting. The same rules will apply to bathing a Maltipoo Yorkie. Both Maltese and Yorkshire Terriers require weekly or biweekly washes. Because of their thicker, curlier hair, Poodles will only need to be washed once a month to prevent dryness, fur falling out, and other skin problems. For a Maltipoo Yorkie, it is recommended they are washed twice a month to find a middle ground between the three dog breeds. If their fur is curlier like a Poodle , wash less. Additionally, Maltipoo Yorkies must get their nails trimmed just as frequently as their hair because the two should go hand in hand. Both Maltese and Yorkies are known for eye tearing and staining. If not regularly cleaned, they can develop serious eye problems. Dog grooming tools for your dog. Maltipoo Yorkie owners should also consider common health issues with Malteses, Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers. These are just a few of the health concerns for Maltese. Heart Disease. Lifespan Sociability The size and temperament of the Morkie make them a popular dog. For example, they are popular with elderly dog owners because they do not require a lot of exercise. They are also popular with families with older children because the Morkie is a playful and happy puppy. This popularity means that there are plenty of breeders specializing in this breed, but it also means that you will have to pay more for a puppy of this type. Finding a good breeder means finding one with a strong reputation for breeding healthy and alert dogs. Before agreeing to take any puppy, arrange to meet the breeder themselves. Have a look at the location where the dogs are bred and live and try to meet the parents. The mother dog is the one that is generally available for meetings, and this can give you a reasonable indication of the size, appearance, and emotional and mental attributes that your puppy will possess. If you do end up buying a puppy from a breeder, ask to see screening certificates, arrange for at least one meeting with the puppy, and if you are being offered a deal that seems too good to be true, remember that there is likely to be a reason behind this. Demand for this type of dog is high, so if a breeder is charging you less than the market rate, it means that they have some need to get rid of them quickly. The popularity of this breed does, unfortunately, mean that a lot of Morkie puppies will end up in rescues, especially as they get older. When taking any rescue dog, you should meet them before you agree to adopt. This will give you the opportunity to assess the dog for physical illnesses and physical conditions, as well as to determine their friendliness, responsiveness, and whether they are especially yappy. Maltese are prone to sunburn. The Maltese breed is very prone to sunburn for a number of reasons. Finally, the sun can reflect up off surfaces, leading to a sunburned belly, and because there is very little hair around the nose, this is another area that is prone to getting burned. Sunburn not only leads to flaky and itchy skin, as well as skin discoloration, but it can also cause the hair to burn and become badly damaged. Squamous cell carcinoma is a slow-growing but aggressive cancer that is known to be caused by overexposure to the sun. Buy and apply sunscreen, limit the amount of time your dog is out in the high sun, and always ensure that your Morkie has plenty of water to drink in the summer months. Yorkshire Terriers suffer some of the same problems: they have hair rather than fur, little covering around their noses, and they are close to the ground so are prone to reflective heat. The Morkie makes a great family pet. The Morkie is considered an incredible family pet. They will get along with people of all ages and can be integrated into homes with other dogs as well as cats, although the level of success depends on the individual dog. They are bright and playful, which means that they are good with children and can be taught to behave how you want them to. You should take care with such small dogs around children because kids have a tendency to be a bit grabby, which can cause pain and may even lead to your dog snapping at your child. Other than this, though, if you are looking for the perfect family pet, then the combination of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier could prove to be the best addition to your home. The Yorkie is a toy breed. The Yorkshire Terrier comes from Yorkshire, a county in England, although it was bred using Scottish blood. They made the journey from England to the USA in the 19th century, when it is believed that millworkers brought them over. Little is known of their exact journey because, according to historians, the men who brought them over would have been poorly educated and unlikely to be able to write. They were used for catching rats and other vermin, but also for companionship. Despite this heritage, and because the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest breeds in the world , it is often classified as being a toy dog breed. Although no giant, the Maltese is expected to grow marginally taller than the Yorkie, but only by an inch or so. He will be very loyal and loving, often shadowing his owner at all times of day and night. They will yap at bigger dogs, often wanting to play with them. In fact, they will yap at most things. Their size means that they do not make good guard dogs, but they are good watchdogs because they will alert their family members to any new person or new sight that they encounter. Are These Dogs Good for Families? In fact, they will get along with people of all ages and sizes, but they may be wary of young children, especially if they have had their ears or tails pulled by infants before. In most cases, this tiny breed is better with older children who have a good understanding of how to safely and calmly play with little dogs. They do tend to latch onto a single person in the household and become their shadow. As such, they will flourish in a one-on-one situation, so they are an excellent choice of pet for seniors and singles. He will bond closely with his owner and, as such, he might not like any other dogs or other pets getting the attention that he believes should be for him. This jealousy can manifest itself in the usual Morkie fashion—yapping. In extreme circumstances, though, yapping can lead to snapping. It is also worth noting that Morkies are not bigger than a small cat, and if the cat rules the house, which is typical in a lot of households, your Morkie may come worse off with a scratched nose or eyes. Despite their size, though, the Morkie is a ratter. He has been bred to chase very small animals, which means that any small pets you have may be at risk if your Morkie retains his high prey drive. If you have guinea pigs, hamsters, or any other small pet, ensure that you supervise any time they are out of the cage so you can be sure that all of your animals are kept safe. While he might not be best suited to families with very small children, he makes an exceptional companion to singles and, because of his minimal exercise requirements, to seniors. With that said, there are certain factors you have to consider before welcoming a Morkie into your home. They also tend to have voracious appetites and will happily gorge on kibble. This means that you need to feed them diligently, providing the right amount and only feeding them at mealtimes. Their size means that it is very easy to overfeed them, especially when it comes to giving them treats. If you use treats for training, ensure that these are healthy and have minimal calories and that you take this off their daily feeding allowance. As with all breeds, you should tailor the feeding to the age of the dog, too. Puppies require more protein because it helps their muscles develop, while senior dogs will require less protein and fewer calories because they will be less likely to burn off any excess. They require exercise every day, but this should be limited to a walk of around 30 minutes. Any more than this and you could actually cause injury or illness, but any less than this, and your dog may become bored and destructive when in the house. Morkies are natural terriers, which means that they have the energy to burn. They can do very well at agility when they get to show off their incredible jumping prowess, as well as their boundless energy levels. They do want to please their owners, but only if what pleases you also pleases them. With that said, they are intelligent and generally happy dogs, so as long as you can avoid the stubborn streak, they will be easy to train. This is especially true if you use a treat-based training program. This sounds like easy maintenance because it means there will be less hair to sweep up and clean off clothes. Their hair can also grow several inches in next to no time, and this can be especially troublesome around areas like the eyes. Dental hygiene is especially important in small dog breeds, although it should be considered essential to all breeds. If he will let you some dogs actually like it , you should look to brush their teeth daily. This may occur as often as every month or two. If they regularly walk on concrete, it may be longer before you have to get the clippers out again. With that said, all Morkies are prone to certain conditions. As well as dental problems that are evident in dogs of this size, you should look for signs of the following conditions and get them treated as soon as possible. Minor Conditions. Lively, intelligent, and downright loveable, Morkie Poos are the perfect mix of the Maltese, Poodle, and Yorkshire Terrier breeds. These little pooches love being […] Although their name may sound like a cartoon character, Morkie Poos are an adorable, sweet-natured designer breed. Lively, intelligent, and downright loveable, Morkie Poos are the perfect mix of the Maltese , Poodle , and Yorkshire Terrier breeds. These little pooches love being around humans. This, along with their adorable charm and looks, makes them wonderful furry companions to come home to. Here a few things to know about the lovable Morkie Poo! Description Morkie Poos are famous for their charming personalities, which they get from their Maltese and Poodle heritage. Morkie Poos crave human companionship—in fact, their favorite activity involves cuddling up to their loved ones on the couch. And who can resist these little furry cuties? Their beautiful dark eyes and soft fur can make anyone melt into their little paws. Their heads are small yet well-proportioned with folded ears. Depending on their heritage, Morkie Poos may have a domed skull like a Maltese or Yorkie. They may also possess a long, narrow muzzle like a Poodle. Their soft coat rarely sheds and comes in various colors. Size Morkie Poos are small dogs. Their average weight ranges between 5 to 11 pounds. This makes it easier for owners to carry their Morkie Poos in their purses or other dog carriers. Exercise Level Like most dogs, Morkie Poos enjoy a quick walk or playtime in the yard. They do not require strenuous exercise, and they can meet their exercise needs inside their homes. This breed is great for owners who live in apartments. Just make sure to set aside some time to play with your Morkie Poo on a daily basis. Morkie Poos are very social so they must have your attention as much as possible. Temperament Morkie Poos are loving, playful dogs that grow strongly attached to their families. Their never-ending desire for your love will manifest in different ways—they may follow you around, cuddle with you, and pepper you with their yummy kisses! Like their Yorkie parents, however, Morkie Poos can be a little stubborn or aloof with strangers. They usually get along well with other pets if socialized young, but they can be pretty territorial. Morkie Poos are also aloof with strangers, and despite their small size, they are fiercely protective of their loved ones. They become destructive around the house if left alone for a long time. Morkie Poos are prone to excessive barking and will be vocal about their loneliness until you come home. This may not sit well with your neighbors. If you are planning to go out, leave someone at home to keep them company. It also comes in various colors, with their most common colors being black, brown, or tan and white. They also need their ears and eyes cleaned to remove stray hairs. Nails should be trimmed as necessary. Morkie Poos do not need to be bathed unless necessary. If they become dirty, use a wet towel to clean off dirt and residue. Training Morkie Poos are highly intelligent and eager to learn anything you want to teach them. Due to their loyalty, they should not present any problems when training. They thrive off of positive reinforcement so be sure to reward good behavior with treats and praises. Some Morkie Poos have a stubborn streak a trait that many Yorkies possess and may try to upstage you. Stay persistent with your commands. Is the Morkie Poo the right breed for you? It all depends on you. Before bringing home your new pooch, prepare yourself with the necessary dog supplies. Discuss the breed with your family members, especially the younger ones. Puppy-proof your home by closing doors and eliminating harmful chemicals. Interested in a larger dog? No worries! Beagles may have been bred to hunt in packs at the behest of their English gentleman owners a few hundred years ago, but today this small-sized purebred has become a hardy companion dog. Willful dog breeds are difficult to train unless the owner dedicates a lot of time, patience, and consistency with dog training. We at Petland Florida have been obsessed with this athletic, impressive, and highly intelligent breed for a while. The Yorkshire Terrier is equally as small as the Maltipoo, with a bold, fearless, and fun temperament and trademark black and tan coats. The Maltipoo Yorkie mix combines all of these great qualities into one adorable little dog! Thanks to the fashionability of designer breeds and the increased desire for hypoallergenic dogs, the Maltipoo Yorkie mix is currently climbing in popularity in the United States. Size The Maltipoo Yorkie is a small dog, weighing an average of pounds or kgs and standing at around inches or cm tall. When is a Maltipoo Yorkie mix fully grown? Maltipoo Yorkie puppies are born in litters of puppies and grow to reach their full adult size by 12 months of age; although they reach their full adult height a little earlier at months, they continue to fill out until a year old. They also enter adolescence at about 6 months of old, reach sexual maturity by about 9 months, and full mental maturity by 2 years of age. Appearance Maltipoo Yorkies have small, round heads, medium-length snouts, big brown eyes, and small floppy ears. They have a slim build with short legs and tails and come in a variety of beautiful colors. What color are Maltipoo Yorkies? As mentioned above, Maltipoo Yorkies come in several colors including white, tan, gold, black and gray, as well as bicolored coats like black and white and tricolored coats like black, white, and tan. They can also be merle coated or sable coated, and they can have lots of beautiful markings including adorable tuxedo markings. Coat type Maltipoo Yorkies are single-coated dogs, meaning they have no undercoat, just a single layer of fur. Their coats are thick and medium-long in length, wavy in texture, and they can be silky or wiry to touch. Are Maltipoo Yorkies hypoallergenic? Temperament Maltipoo Yorkies are lively, brave, intelligent, playful dogs with fun-loving personalities. Do Maltipoo Yorkies get bored? In bright, high-energy dogs like the Maltipoo Yorkie, boredom can lead to pent-up energy, frustration, and separation anxiety, which causes destructive behaviors like excessive barking and ripping up household furniture. Are Maltipoo Yorkies good family dogs? Maltipoo Yorkies make excellent family dogs. That said, they are small and can get hurt easily, so they may not be the best breed for very small children, and all children should be taught how to interact with their pets safely and respectfully. Training Maltipoo Yorkies are very bright, but they can also be stubborn, so training sessions should be concise, consistent, and rewarding, with lots of positive reinforcement. Never punish your pup for getting it wrong, and try using a behavioral signal like a clicker to speed things up. Remember to start with the basics, and focus on obedience and socialization to prevent their stubborn streak from taking over. Diet Maltipoo Yorkies should eat complete and balanced food with all of the essential nutrients for whole body health and appropriate energy levels. Such as vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, and K for healthy vision and organs, and minerals like calcium and magnesium for strong bones, muscles, nerves, and cellular function. They also need to eat healthy fats like Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and shiny coats, joint support, and cognitive function. As well as healthy carbohydrates for energy and high-quality, lean protein sources like chicken and fish for healthy muscles, organs, and tissues. How much should a Maltipoo Yorkie eat? Exercise needs These little dogs only need between minutes of exercise per day, ideally split between two walks. Young pups generally need 5 minutes of exercise per month of their age as they grow and develop, and whilst senior Maltipoo Yorkies remain fairly active into old age, their routine should lessen as they slow down, on the advice of your vet. Their coats need to be brushed every days with a slicker brush and bathed once a month with natural dog shampoo to keep them in good condition. They also need to have haircuts every weeks. Health The Maltipoo Yorkie has an average lifespan of years. For the Maltipoo Yorkie, this includes the following: Cataracts. Taking into account the size and appearance of both the Maltese and the Yorkshire terrier, you can expect their offspring to be a finely boned dog with a lean neck and back and straight limbs. Most Morkies weigh somewhere between 7 and 13 pounds and are between 4 and 8 inches tall at the withers. With that being said, there are no set standards for this mix, so some Morkie puppies may be larger or smaller than average. Their coats can be black, white, brown, tan, or any color in between. Additionally, some individuals may be a mix of these colors. Coat Texture This pocket-sized hybrid has a long, soft, and smooth non-shedding single coat. The Maltese Yorkshire terrier mix has a big personality and an energy level to match. Morkies are happy-go-lucky dogs that can play with toys for hours on end, regardless of their small stature. Underneath their feisty and playful surface, this petite hybrid is a true lapdog that likes to snuggle with its people. Morkies are sweet, affectionate, and doting dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and want nothing more than to be by your side every minute of the day. Coddling your Morkie puppy and indulging their neediness can cause serious behavioral problems down the road, including separation anxiety and destructive behavior. Thankfully, with early and consistent training and socialization from an early age, this can be avoided. That being said, you may find that your pooch is too watchful! Most Morkies tend to bark when someone is at the front door but also when birds are chirping in the backyard. Their small size and loving temperament make Morkies fantastic apartment dwellers. However, their love for nuisance barking can make you unpopular with the neighbors. They can easily sustain serious injuries during play and rough handling. This is why the Morkie is best suited for older children and adults or homes without other larger pets that can roughhouse this small hybrid during a play session. Apart from regular walks, this extremely playful pooch will enjoy playing games around the house or in the backyard as long as there is someone to play with them. Caring For A Morkie Puppy As with any other dog, you should come up with a care routine that will keep your Morkie healthy and happy from the moment you bring them home. Besides regular walks, you can keep your small pup active by playing games both indoors and outdoors. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, flyball, or anything else your pup fancies will keep them healthy, happy, and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation The Morkie is a clever dog that can quickly become frustrated and destructive without proper mental stimulation. Companionship This pocket-sized hybrid loves people and is a bona fide lapdog. Affectionate and sweet, they want nothing more than to spend time with you and stay by your side. Make no mistake; Morkies are clingy dogs that will demand almost constant attention and affection. Be sure to avoid leaving your Morkie home alone for long periods of time to prevent these tantrums from occurring. They do best in homes with one or more persons to keep them company all day, like large families or those with children. Diet An ideal diet for Morkies should be formulated for small breeds with moderate to high energy. Instead of free-feeding your pup, stick to a regular feeding schedule of three smaller meals a day, and limit their amount of treats, too. Known Health Problems While they are generally healthy, Morkies are predisposed to some of the same health problems that the Yorkshire terrier and Maltese face. The most common health issues seen in this mix are: Collapsing Trachea: This condition affects Yorkshire terriers and is caused by the malformation of the main airway. It causes a hoarse cough that is usually triggered by exercise or exertion. Hernias: Most commonly found around either the umbilical or the inguinal canal in the groin, hernias are usually diagnosed in Morkie puppies. Dental Issues: The Morkie has small jaws and crowded teeth that are prone to tartar buildup. This buildup, if left unchecked, often results in periodontal disease. Regular teeth brushing and vet checkups are essential for preventing dental problems. Lifespan The Morkie has an average life expectancy of 10 to 16 years. With regular veterinary checkups and proper care, most of these tiny pooches reach old age without any major health problems. How To Train Your Morkie Puppies Morkies are smart but stubborn dogs, so training your pup will likely test your patience more than once. Training must be a fun and positive experience for your Morkie, so focus on positive reinforcement training rather than harsh corrections and yelling. When treated badly, Morkies tend to become grumpy and uncooperative. If this occurs, you can forget about training for the rest of the day. Start training your Morkie puppy as soon as you bring them home to help them grow into an obedient and well-mannered dog. Besides training, you should also start socializing your puppy as soon as they have received their primary vaccinations. Aim to expose your pooch to as many people, dogs, cats, places, and situations from an early age to help them grow into a confident and friendly dog. Morkies make fantastic pets and companions to people of all ages, in particular families with older children. Affectionate and loving, these pint-sized pooches tend to be needy and demand a lot of attention, so they are best suited to homes with no other pets. However, they are just as happy living in a huge home with a fenced backyard. This mix is best suited for people who spend a lot of time at home or work from home so they can keep their dog company. When looking for a breeder, be prepared to do some digging and research beforehand to ensure that they are reputable and ethical. These smaller dogs are often plagued by a range of different health problems, so continuing these issues by deliberate breeding is generally seen as inhumane and unnecessarily cruel. The exact price depends on many factors, including the breeder, supply and demand, pedigree and the quality of both parents, and coat color. Yorkies are one of the most popular toy breeds, packing a larger-than-life personality in a tiny body. Maltese Believed to have originated from spitz-type dogs in south-central Europe, the Maltese is a small dog breed in the toy dog group. Best known for their long, silky, pure-white coat, the Maltese is an affectionate, gentle, and fearless pooch that makes a fantastic pet to families with children and people of all ages. The adorable Morkie makes a fantastic pet to singles, couples, families with older children, and smaller households with no other pets. Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them superb apartment dwellers and ideal companions for urban dwellers. True lapdogs at heart, Morkies tend to be needy and demanding but make great companions. Created by crossing a Yorkshire terrier and a Maltese, the Morkie is a very popular pint-sized designer dog breed. Although they are small in size, they have a big personality and make wonderful pets to urban dwellers, families with older kids, singles, seniors, and couples. Tell us and our readers more about owning this cute mix in the comment section below! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. As with any mixed breed, it can be difficult to predict exactly how your Maltipoo York mix will turn out. However, you can get a good idea of what to expect by looking at the parent breeds. History of the Maltese The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. This toy breed is thought to have originated in the Mediterranean region, possibly on the island of Malta. The Maltese has been prized by royalty and commoners alike for centuries. The Maltese is a gentle and loving dog, known for their lapdog ways. They love nothing more than being with their human companions, and make wonderful family pets. Maltese are also relatively easy to care for, thanks to their small size and low-maintenance coat. History of the Yorkie The Yorkshire Terrier is another ancient breed, dating back to the 19th century. They were originally bred in England for vermin control, and later became popular companions for Victorian ladies. Today, Yorkies are still prized as companion dogs and make wonderful family pets. Yorkies are known for being feisty and independent, despite their small size. They are also very intelligent and easily trained. Yorkies require quite a bit of grooming, however, as their long coat can become matted and tangled if not cared for properly. Poodles were originally used as water dogs, and helped hunters retrieve birds from lakes and rivers. The Standard Poodle is still used for this purpose today, while the Toy and Miniature Poodles have become popular companion dogs. Poodles are known for being highly intelligent and easily trained. They are also very active dogs, and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Poodles come in a variety of colors, but the most popular is the white poodle. Yorkie Maltipoo Appearance Maltipoo Yorkie mixes can vary quite a bit in appearance, depending on which parent breed they take after most. However, they are typically small dogs, with a compact build and long legs. Maltipoo Yorkies usually have a soft, curly coat that can be either short or long. Common coat colors include white, black, brown, and tan. Maltipoo Yorkies typically have a Maltese-like face, with a long nose and black eyes. They are usually 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. When is a Maltipoo Yorkie Mix full grown? Maltipoo Yorkies usually reach their full adult size by around 1 year of age. However, they may continue to fill out and mature until they are 2 or 3 years old. They are very loving and affectionate with their family, and make wonderful companion dogs. Maltipoo Yorkies are also relatively easy to train, thanks to their intelligence. However, Maltipoo Yorkies can be quite stubborn, and may require a bit of patience when training them. They can also be yappy dogs, and may bark excessively if not properly trained. Maltipoo Yorkies do best in homes with older children, as they can be easily injured by rough play. Health of a Yorkie Maltipoo Mix Maltipoo Yorkies are generally healthy dogs, and have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, there are some health conditions to be aware of. Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be painful for your dog, and may require surgery to correct. Tracheal collapse is a condition where the tracheal windpipe collapses or flattens. This can make it difficult for your dog to breathe, and may require treatment with a breathing tube. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause seizures. If you are considering a Maltipoo Yorkie, be sure to ask the breeder about any health problems that may be present in the parents. Care of Maltipoo Yorkies Maltipoo Yorkies are relatively low-maintenance dogs, and their grooming needs are minimal. They should be brushed weekly to prevent tangles and mats, and their coat should be trimmed every few months. Maltipoo Yorkies only need to be bathed when necessary, as too much bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat. Maltipoo Yorkies are relatively active dogs, and need a moderate amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or play session should be sufficient. Maltipoo Yorkies can live in either an apartment or a house, as long as they get enough exercise. If you are considering a Maltipoo Yorkie mix, be sure to do your research on both parent breeds. This will help you decide if this is the right breed for you. Maltipoo Yorkies make great companion dogs, and are sure to bring a lot of love and joy into your life. Here are a few tips to help you train your Maltipoo Yorkie: Start training early. It is easier to train a puppy than an adult dog. However, even an adult Maltipoo Yorkie can be trained with patience and consistency. Use positive reinforcement. Reward your Maltipoo Yorkie for good behavior with treats, praise, or petting. Avoid using punishment, as this can cause your dog to become fearful or aggressive. Keep training sessions short. Maltipoo Yorkies have short attention spans, and will quickly become bored if the training session is too long. Be consistent. Maltipoo Yorkies respond best to consistent training. If you are not consistent with your commands, your dog will become confused and may not respond to you at all. With patience and consistency, you should be able to train your Maltipoo Yorkie relatively easily. Just remember to keep training sessions short and fun, and to use positive reinforcement. How to Prep for a Maltipoo Yorkie Puppy If you are getting a Maltipoo Yorkie puppy, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for their arrival. First, you will need to puppy-proof your home. This means removing any items that could be harmful or dangerous to your puppy, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and small objects that they could choke on. You should also create a safe space for your puppy, such as a crate or puppy playpen, that they can call their own. Next, you will need to gather some supplies. This includes things like food and water bowls, a collar and leash, dog food, toys, and treats. You may also want to get a doggy door, so your puppy can come and go as they please. Finally, you will need to make sure you have enough time to care for your new puppy. This means taking them on regular walks and play sessions, as well as providing them with plenty of love and attention. If you take the time to prepare for your Maltipoo Yorkie puppy, they will be sure to settle into their new home quickly and easily. This price can vary depending on factors such as the breeder, the parent breeds, and the coat color. Maltipoo Yorkies are relatively rare dogs, so they may be difficult to find. You may have to do some searching to find a reputable breeder who has Maltipoo Yorkie puppies for sale. Once you find a breeder, be sure to ask about the health and temperaments of the parents, as well as the littermates. This will give you an idea of what to expect from your Maltipoo Yorkie puppy. Tips for Finding a Reputable Breeder If you are looking for a reputable Maltipoo Yorkie breeder, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you should make sure the breeder is experienced and has a good reputation. You can ask around at your local dog park or pet store, or search online for reviews of the breeder. The puppies should be clean and well-cared for, and the adults should look healthy and happy. Finally, you should make sure the breeder is willing to answer any of your questions. They should be able to tell you about the health and temperaments of the parents, as well as the littermates. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any of your questions and concerns. If you keep these things in mind, you should be able to find a reputable Maltipoo Yorkie breeder without too much difficulty. Maltipoo Yorkies are a great choice for first-time dog owners. They are relatively low-maintenance dogs that are easy to train. Maltipoo Yorkies make great companion dogs, and will bring a lot of love and joy into your life. Are Morkie Poos aggressive? Generally speaking, Morkie Poos are very loving and affectionate pups and they usually bond extremely well with their humans. On the other hand, Morkie Poos may exhibit a stubborn streak from time to time. But all in all, Morkie Poos are wonderful little companions with so much to give. However, due to their somewhat clingy nature, Morkie Poos are prone to separation anxiety. For this reason, leaving them alone for the majority of the day is a big no-no. See Also: Click the image Furthermore, as both the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier are rather yappy breeds, the Morkie Poo may be slightly more vocal compared to some other Doodle breeds. Do Morkie Poos have health problems? The great thing about hybrid breeds like the Morkiepoo is that these pups tend to be healthier than their purebred parents. The term used for this is hybrid vigor, which suggests that crossbreeds have superior health thanks to their more diverse genetic pool. In addition to that, Morkiepoos usually live long and healthy lives. Of course, you should also take your pup to regular vet checkups. Although Morkipoos are generally healthy dogs, they are still susceptible to certain genetic conditions that they may inherit from one or more of their parental breeds. The most common health issues in Morkie Poos include joint problems like patellar luxation and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases like progressive retinal atrophy PRA , cataracts, and glaucoma, tracheal collapse, hypoglycemia, heart diseases, and thyroid issues. Many Doods are also at a risk of digestive issues , ear infections , dental problems , skin allergies , and food intolerances. See Also: Click the image Furthermore, as the Morkie Poo is such a small pup, they can easily get hurt. For this reason, these pups should always be handled with utmost care, especially if you have young children in your household. In fact, we recommend you keep a close eye on their interactions to avoid any unfortunate accidents that may require urgent veterinary care. As long as you stay firm and consistent, you should have no trouble training your pup. You should also keep in mind that Morkiepoos, like any other dogs, respond well to positive reinforcement. So, if your pup is acting up a little bit, never scold them, and only reward good behaviors. Obviously, the key to raising well-behaved and confident adults lies in early socialization , obedience training , and potty training , all of which you should start from the moment you bring your new puppy home. As an added bonus, all of the classes are online and you can easily follow them at your own pace from the comfort of your own home. Need help with training? About 30 minutes of exercise twice a day would suffice. These pups also need their daily mental stimulation so make sure your pup has plenty of interactive games and puzzle toys to play with. Otherwise, they might get bored and start exhibiting bad behaviors. Are Morkie Poos high-maintenance? Like other Poodle mixes, the Morkie Poo is praised for its low-shedding coat. The Poodle, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terrier are all single-coated breeds and tend to shed very little. Naturally, the Morkie Poo inherits its low-shedding coat from its parents. On the flip side of the coin, Morkie Poos are often considered high-maintenance dogs. They need regular hair trims, daily brushing sessions, and regular bathing. Morkie Poos, especially the curly-haired pups, are prone to matting , and the easiest way you can combat this is by brushing your Dood regularly. If your pup has inherited more of a wavy or straight coat, you might get away with less frequent brushing sessions, about 3 to 4 times a week. The brushes we recommend in our Maltipoo brush guide also work great on Morkie Poo hair. These pups require hair trims every 4 to 8 weeks. You can either take your pup to a professional groomers or instead groom your Dood at home. The latter is going to cost you a lot less money in the long run. In addition to that, light-colored Morkie Poos are also prone to beard and tear stains , but also ear infections, which you can easily prevent with good ear hygiene. How much does a Morkie Poo cost? Where can you adopt Morkie Poo puppies in the US? These breeders do charge more for their puppies. Morkie Poos make excellent companions for singles and families alike. The Morkie Poo is a toy-sized breed that typically weighs between 4 to 13 pounds and has an average height of 7 to 10 inches measured from the shoulder. From the Yorkie and Maltese parent, Morkiepoos often inherit their tendency to bark. The Morkie Poo would definitely make a great guard dog. Morkiepoo Final Thoughts To sum it up, the Morkie Poo is one of the newer Doodle breeds that we expect to become more and more popular in the next few years. Hopefully we managed to answer all of your questions about the Morkie Poo so you can make an informed decision before committing to a decade or more with this wonderful little companion. You Might Also Like.

Guaranteed Analysis Guaranteed analysis: Crude Protein min. Ingredients Ingredients: brewers rice, brown rice, oat groats, chicken by-product meal, corn, corn gluten meal, chicken fat, wheat gluten, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, L-lysine, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], DL-methionine, choline chloride, monocalcium phosphate, salt, taurine, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, zinc oxide, ferrous sulfate, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate], glucosamine hydrochloride, GLA safflower oil, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Daily Feeding Recommendations. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

German Shepherd Rescue German Shepherd Rescue For years I was very active in rescuing, fostering and placing German Shepherds in my region who for whatever reason needed a new home. Why Do we Do It? I had a nice yard. I had some nice toys. I had a nice family. I thought they loved me, I thought they cared. I thought for me they would always be there. One day they moved, and sent me away. And in my heart, I wanted to stay. Locked up in a cage, that god-awful shelter, I wished for a home…with a girl and a boy. Then one day I found, I was to be put away. I begged for a family… I begged and I prayed. Then POOF, right out of nowhere a nice little lady who took me somewhere. She took me away, from the barking and shouts, to a place the angels must know about. She gave me a treat, and she gave me friends. I thought and I knew this love would never end. Then some nice people, they did come along. They wanted to adopt me for so very long. I wagged my tail and greeted them with pleasure. Such happiness my heart could not measure. Tribute to Chance Several years ago a trucker found an emaciated elderly German Shepherd running along the Interstate near Great Falls. He picked him up and brought him to the Animal Shelter here in Sheridan. Instead, they called me and I raced down to take him. When I led him outside, he stopped and looked up at the sky, looked down at the green grass, looked all around, as if he had known his planned fate and thought never to see any of that again. As I drove him to the foster home he eagerly gazed at children playing, people walking, life going by. He had been so starved that we could trace every bone in his body, and food just went right through him. We had him for several weeks, long enough to get his digestive system working again and some padding on those old bare bones. Eventually, a good friend in Spokane, who was waiting for one of my puppies, saw him on this rescue page and called to say she would take him. It was love at first sight for Debbi, a tentative and slow love for Chance, and a few months later, a fantastic buddy relationship with the pup Kobi Celhaus Faraoh when he joined the household. Chance died last January from mesenteric torsion, perhaps induced by his previous starved condition. Amazingly, two months later, I got a call from the Animal Shelter. Blessings upon you, Debbi, for giving joy at last to the two elderly German Shepherds, who were so bewildered and betrayed by the fickleness of their owners who should have cosseted them in their old age. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. Unfortunately when you have a popular breed, you often have many who do not fit in with the families which acquire them, ending up abandoned at animal shelters or worse, euthanasia, when their owners tire of them. As a breeder of German shepherds, I do all I can to ensure that none of my puppies end up such a situation. And I also try to help needy German Shepherds find loving homes for the rest of their lives, where they are appreciated and treasured. German Shepherds Must Have: 1. Exercise for their minds some kind of training 2. Exercise for their bodies—at least 30 minutes vigorous exercise daily on a schedule regular enough that they can depend on it 3. They NEED a job; if not given one, they invent one often one undesirable to people. They also NEED to spend most of their time with people. The German Shepherd is the premier working dog in the world. Some breeds are specialist, starring in one type of work, but the GSD is a generalist, able to do a great variety of kinds of work well. They excel in Schutzhund and tracking. They make great Therapy Dogs. The list is almost endless. They are NOT couch potatoes. They also NEED at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, whether it be hiking, retrieving a ball, whatever. A sedate walk around the block on leash is not sufficient! Their exercise MUST be on a regular schedule. I can get away with a shortened session occasionally if the weather is foul or I have to be at work unusually early, but it better not happen too often! I might come home to find hoses or the drip system chewed, or the yard rearranged. I try to take them for hikes in the hills summer or in town winter , and if weather forbids that, we play games or learn tricks. Bad habits resulting from frustrations when the above needs are not met. Or a family member turns out to be allergic to dog hair. German Shepherd puppies are the cutest things imaginable, but they soon lose that puppy charm and become very large and busy. Sometimes the problem is the high prey drive and energy level that makes them too much dog for the people to handle but would have made them superb working dogs, given a chance. Abuse or neglect. God forbid, but it does happen all too frequently. Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals, especially for animals who are suffering; for any that are hunted or lost, or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all thy mercy and pity and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the merciful. Usually I have no foster homes which can accept a needy dog and give it a home until a permanent home can be found for them. I take calls from people wanting to place their dogs, meet and evaluate the dog, then spread the word. Generally the dogs must stay in their homes until I can locate a suitable adopter except in cases of abuse or neglect, when we find a safe place for them as soon as possible. Many breeders do, and that should be the first call anyone with a problem dog should make. Few people call asking for help finding a dog, but enough do to keep my hopes up. We definitely need more people willing to give a dog a second chance!! A rescued dog can be incredibly grateful to its new owners, and bond deeply because it appreciates FINALLY being loved and appreciated. We also need more people willing to foster a rescued dog and begin its rehabilitation. We also need some way to educate people that a living animal is not something to throw away as you would an empty pop can. German Shepherds are legendary in their loyalty to their owners; somehow we need to help people realize that they are called to an equal devotion and loyalty to their dog. A person who is unwilling to put effort into training and exercising his German Shepherd should get a different pet—perhaps a goldfish would be best! He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with man. We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals. Immanuel Kant People seldom realize that rescue workers are all volunteers and generally work a demanding full-time job. Resolve to get your dog into some good training classes, to begin regular exercise and to focus on good bonding time and activities. If all these fail, contact one of us. But remember to give us time. Some larger metropolitan areas have rescue groups who can take dogs and foster them long enough to fix the problems. Many of us cannot. Even those larger groups are often overwhelmed by he numbers and have to give first change to dogs in danger of being killed. I check my e-mail daily. If I do not answer you right away, I might be researching options for you. Or else my work schedule has me temporarily buried. But never fear, I will do my best to help you—whether it is to find your dog a loving home, or to help you find a new, loyal friend with which to spend your life. For this is a person all the animals know about. As they have waited for their loved one s , they have told the story of their rescue from loneliness, neglect and impending death, and the wonderful people who helped them until a special loved one could be found. O special friend of animals, you have been spotted, and all the dogs and other animal friends will run over the fields to thank the person who has enabled so many to have had good lives and memories. Then, will they all walk to the gate of St. Very few people even recognize my name. But today I helped place an animal! I helped find it a loving home. It now has contentment and an abundance of love. A warm place to sleep and plenty to eat. Two little girls have a warm and playful new friend who will give them unending affection and teach them about responsibility and love. A wife and mother has a new free spirit to cuddle, nurture and care for. A husband and father has a furry friend to sit in his lap at the end of a hard day of work and help him relax and enjoy life. And a sense of satisfaction, that when he is gone all day at work, that there is a gentle spirit in his home keeping watch over his family. But today, I made a difference! Little Pieces by Grace Saalsaa Written for those who foster Melissa sat on the floor, unable to sit straight and tall like her mother had always admonished her to do when she was a child. Today, it would be impossible. And tomorrow…. Her mind was too busy thinking about the dog that lay across her lap. When he came to be with her, he had no name. She remembered that day very well. The first sight of him was enough to break her heart into little pieces. The woman, who had taken this dog from the rough streets where he had lived, had tried to save him because she was unable to watch this young dog find his own food in a dumpster outside the crack house where he lived. Nobody cared that he was gone. His fur was very thick; so thick that she had to wiggle her fingers down to feel his bony body. And as she pulled her fingers away again, they were coated in old dirt. Black and white, he was supposed to be. But on that day he was beige and dust. He sat motionless, waiting and limp. But the thing that was the most disturbing was the look in his eyes. They were quiet eyes, sunken into his head — and they watched her. They were alive with thought. She gave him one of the little broken pieces of her heart. She reached out to stroke his head and he instinctively squinched his eyes shut and dropped his head, waiting for the heavy hand. With that little bit of movement she gave him another one of the broken pieces of her heart. She took him home and gave him a bath. She toweled him dry and brushed some order back into his coat. For that, he was grateful and even though his own heart was loaded with worms, he accepted yet another piece of her heart, for it would help to heal his own. He drank it up happily. He had been dehydrated for a long time and she knew it would take him most of the week to re-hydrate. He wanted more water — but it was gone. But he was grateful for what he had been able to get. The heart full of worms was replaced piece by piece with little bits of her loving heart. And each little piece worked a very special kind of magic. When the warmth of love and gentle caresses are added, the little broken pieces knit together again and heal the container it resides in. That container becomes whole again. She watched each little broken piece fill a gap in the gentle dog until his quiet eyes radiated the light from the little pieces. You see, kind words gently spoken turn the little pieces into illumination for the spirit that resides within. He rested beside her, happy to be with her always. Never had he known such kindness, such gentle caresses; such love. Now his heart was full. The healing was complete. It was time to go. There was another person who had another heart that was meant to be shared with him. So she sat shapeless on the floor because all the broken pieces of her heart were with the dog. It is difficult to sit tall when your heart is not with you. She wrapped her arms around the dog that sat with tall, proud ears for her. Lean on me, he said. And she gave him one last thing that would keep him strong; that would keep the pieces of her heart together long after he had gone on to live his new life. She gave him her tears and bound them to the pieces with a simple statement made from the ribbons of her heart. Melissa sat on the floor, straight and tall like her mother had always admonished her to do when she was a child. Today, it would be possible. Because her mind was busy thinking about this, the next dog that lay across her lap. Where did she get the heart to help yet another dog, you ask? They always bring a little bit of heart with them. And when the rescuer breathes in that little bit of heart, it quickly grows and fills the void left by the last dog. Wyoming is a shepherd mix — approximately 3 years old Wyoming has been in a wonderful GSROC foster home and has come a long way from when he was first rescued. He is housebroken and socialized. He loves to play with other dogs and ignores the cats in the home. Wyoming is a a shepherd mix, a great medium sized dog with a beautiful sable colored coat. He takes time to warm-up to anything new — new people and new situations. A gentle, quiet home will be ideal for this sweet boy. Wyoming loves playing with other dogs, and should be in a home either with his big brothers Nevada or Dakota or other playful dogs. He would love a home with multiple dog friends, and he gets along with all of his foster siblings, including a chihuahua. He plays well with other dogs, and is dog friendly. Wyoming is around cats at his foster home, but does not have close interaction with them. He would be appropriate in a home with cats, but not left alone with them to be safe as he does have a play drive. He would thrive in a home with a regular schedule, and would be fine with a family that is at work during the day once he was comfortable as long as he had a safe yard to play in and dog friends with him. Wyoming loves to go on long walks, and has really great leash-walking skills. He walks very easy on leash, unless he gets startled. Wyoming should not be let off leash as he is startled easily and will run in fear. He is learning how to have fun now that he knows he is safe, loved and cared for! Are you looking for a special, gentle dog that needs your love and patience? If you are looking for a dog that will blossom with patience and love, please complete the online application and an adoption counselor will contact you. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. House-trained, Story Introducing Thor, the big and friendly dog with a heart of love! This squishy pup is a great companion for anyone who loves big, playful dogs. Thor is a natural social butterfly and loves spending time with other dogs. Making him a great fit for households with multiple pets. He loves being in the house and quick to make himself at home. Thor is a dog who's always up for an adventure, and he particularly loves car rides. He jumps into the car with ease and settles in for the ride. This makes him the perfect companion for road trips and outings with the family. Thor is also a well-trained pup who knows how to sit and walks well on a leash. He's always eager to learn new things and is a quick study. With his love of learning and eagerness to please, Thor is a great candidate for obedience training or other dog sports, agility training anyone? He does like to explore, we recommend a high fence for this big boy. In short, Thor is a big and friendly dog who's always ready for fun and adventure. If you're looking for a loyal and playful companion who's great with other pets and loves car rides, then Thor is the perfect fit for you! You can text unlimited questions to Petcademy and they'll respond within 24 hours Monday-Friday. We only adopt in the USA. We are open to adopting in other states, except in Massachusetts. There are quarantine laws for MA and until these laws change, we are not able to adopt into MA.