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Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Kentucky? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Kentucky work? There are lots of things that can affect the price of French Bulldog puppies in Kentucky, from the color of the coat to the size, pedigree, and more. If you have a budget in mind, the best thing you can do right now is start looking for a French Bulldog for sale Kentucky and see if you can find the perfect pup today. Do French Bulldogs have any particular characteristics? When it comes to Kentucky French Bulldogs for sale, you may already know that they are small dogs. They are companion dogs, so they are friendly and affectionate. They love spending time with their owners, and they will want to be with you all day. They also enjoy playing, so get ready to have fun! Is there a reason French Bulldogs are so expensive? These pups are more difficult to breed for Kentucky French Bulldog breeders. Their narrow hips make natural reproduction very difficult, so they are often artificially inseminated, and pups are delivered by C-section too. This additional work and skill for the breeders leads to higher prices for French Bulldogs for sale Kentucky. What if I find a French Bulldog from a breeder in another state? But if you find your pup from a breeder over the other side of the country, they can make travel arrangements so you can simply meet your pooch at your most convenient major airport. We make it easy to find your perfect pup wherever they are. How do you screen the breeders to ensure only the best get into your network? All breeders and businesses that join our network must take our Breeder Pledge. Check this out to find out what we expect from the French Bulldog breeders in Kentucky here, and what you can expect too. We only want the very best here so you can look for French Bulldogs for sale in Kentucky with peace of mind. Why is Uptown Puppies better than searching the internet for French Bulldogs? Because we only connect you with top French Bulldog breeders Kentucky when you search here. We think finding a new French Bulldog Kentucky should be quick, easy, and fun. What exactly are puppy mills, anyway? Think of mills as factories for dogs. So please stay away from them in your search for French Bulldog puppies Kentucky. Will I find French Bulldog puppies if I start searching now? There are many breeders and companies in our network, and they have lots of pups to choose from. Whatever you have got in mind, look for your Kentucky French Bulldog for sale today and have fun! Are French Bulldogs good with other dogs and pets? French Bulldogs tend to get along well with other pets, as long as they are introduced to them at an early age so they can be properly socialized. When you are looking for French Bulldog puppies for sale Kentucky, plan how you will introduce them to your other pets. Do French Bulldogs shed during the year? Yes, like many other dogs, French Bulldogs shed throughout the year. Just make sure you give them a regular brush and you will find that it is very easy to look after these little dogs. There are several reputable french bulldog breeders in Kentucky but do trust those with years of experience and not the backyard breeders with limited knowledge of the high standards for which I breed, quality. .Please watch the little human ones though, Frenchie do not having their ears pulled or their eyes explored; do you? Frenchies are funny, shorter legs, more lazy, rounded ears and demanding of your attention! They are comical and playful but lazy might be a better description. Bulldogs are NOT good swimmers; being head heavy, they tend to tilt downward and can drown. Swimmies or life jackets coupled with constant supervision is a MUST as they do love to soak. If you have an in-ground swimming pool they need to be supervised at all times if they have access to it. French Bulldogs are known as a bullheaded and stubborn breed so repetition is the key to training. Praising and sweet talk is the key to success along with patience as they love to please. Just like raising a child, but remember, you are the alpha, and they will learn what you teach them. Again, repetition, reward and patience are key. They are always anxious to please. French Bulldog or Poodle? Check out this link to read more about the French Bulldog to see if they will fit perfectly in your family.

Mixed Breeds By K9 of Mine Staff 19 min read July 14, 23 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Labrador retrievers are well known for their even-tempered personalities, loyalty, fun-loving natures, and complete devotion to their family members. In fact, the Labrador retriever continues to be the most popular dog breed in the US — a position the breed has held for 27 years straight! Take a gander and share your thoughts in the comments below! Note: K9 of Mine does not endorse irresponsible breeding — please keep in mind that this photo collection is intended for enjoyment and pooch appreciation, not as any kind breeding recommendation or resource. There is very little official data about mixed breed dogs, so the photos displayed here are chosen based on information given by owners. We are unable to personally verify the breed heritage of the pooches shown here — instead, we must simply trust that owners are truthfully describing their dogs with they share photos of their mixed breed canines. TL;DR: Just enjoy the cute photos of doggos! The Basics of the Labrador Retriever Before we introduce you to some of the cutest Lab mixes around, it is important that we talk about a few of the basics of Labradors. This will help you decide whether a Lab mix may be a good fit for your family! Labradors usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand about 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Labs have moderately long lifespans of about 12 years, though some reach even older ages. Labs are members of the sporting group, who were originally bred to help fisherman tend nets, until their owners started using them to retrieve downed birds. Labrador retrievers have a friendly, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and they usually get along with most two- and four-footers they encounter. Labs are full of energy and often make superb running or hiking companions. Labrador retrievers can make great pets for first-time dog owners, so long as you provide plenty of exercise and stimulation each day. Labs are people-oriented dogs, who thrive best in homes that are rarely empty. Labrador retrievers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze. Labs tend to shed pretty heavily, thanks to their thick double coats. Labrador retrievers do often suffer from a few common health problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. No dog breed is perfect for all situations or scenarios, but as you can see, Labs are certainly one of the most appealing breeds in the world and they have quite a bit to offer the right family! Without further ado, here are some Labrador designer breeds that are sure to steal your heart. In some cases, like the Labradoodle a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle , the names are pretty popular and used widely. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes also produces some puppers with pretty adorable coat color patterns , which just adds to their appeal. These pups are best paired with active owners. But while they may have blockier builds than typical Labs, most of these guys and gals are big softies, who love nothing more than cuddling with their humans. Like Labs, American bulldogs excel at a wide variety of tasks, making them great all-around dogs for families, farmers, hunters, and more! Labs are lovable goofballs who are all about fun and games, while Akitas are no-nonsense pooches, who project an air of competence and quiet dignity. One pooch in the litter may take after the Lab parent, while another may more closely resemble the Akita. Name aside, these playful pups have energy levels that are off-the-charts, so be sure you have a big yard and plenty of time to visit the park before adding one of these dogs to your family. Well, the Beagador may be just the thing! But, they can be a bit aloof around strangers. But when you cross a bullmastiff with a Lab — a dog who views all strangers as potential pals — all bets are off! These mixes can be a bit of a house-keeping headache, as Labs shed pretty heavily, while bullmastiffs are Olympic-caliber droolers. Labs have held the 1 spot since , but the cocker spaniel has sat atop the popularity pyramid in 23 different years since the s. Note that there are two different corgi breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi , and each will produce a slightly different version of this mixed breed. Either are considered Lab Corgi dogs. Doberdor Labrador Retriever X Doberman Pinscher A post shared by Charli the doberdor charlithedoberdor Given that Dobermans and Labs are both very affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their owners, Doberdor mixed breed pups will make great companions for individuals and families alike. The Doberdor loves his human family and will make it known with endless puppy kisses and loyalty. Wanna see more Doberman mixes? Check out 15 of our favorites here! You may just want to consider the Dalmador. Labs make pretty good jogging partners themselves, and Dalmatians can run for days. Honestly, there are a variety of Dalmatian mixes available for fans of polka-dotted pooches. Dachsador Labrador Retriever X Dachshund. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article.

Red Apricot The gene for brown fur is recessive in Poodles, meaning that a puppy must receive a copy from each parent for the color to show. Otherwise, offspring will display the dominant color, which is often black. Some Poodles may end up inheriting a variety of colors thanks to their genetic background. Some poodles come in spotted or merled varieties, while others are patterned or tricolored. The most common poodle colors include black, chocolate, and white, while the three rarest colors include apricot, red, and cream. The rarer the color, the harder it is to find a breeder with available puppies, making chocolate a good choice for dog owners who want a more immediate placement. This is a completely natural process that happens in plenty of show breeds, and it should be no cause for concern. Most Poodles grow lighter in color with time, including chocolate varieties. Even then, they may grow lighter or grayer as they mature. Chocolate poodles often clear from a deep brown to a light, almost white gold. A chocolate Toy Poodle eating from a ceramic bowl Age Just like us, dogs can start to sprout gray hairs with age. Brown coloration may fade to gray or white in mature poodles, especially around the nose, chin, and eyes. Hair may also grow more coarse or wiry with time. Environment While fur changes are most often completely natural in poodles, environmental damage can lead to color shifts in some cases. Excessive exposure to UV radiation is a common cause of lightening in poodle fur. You can also find specialized pet sunscreens to protect skin and fur. Try to steer clear of anything with toxic components, such as mineral oils, parabens, polysorbates, and more. Poodle Coat Types Poodles are world-renowned for their elaborate, fluffy coats. Many people groom Poodle coats into styles such as the continental clip or the cupcake cut. There are three main types of coat styles owners can work with. Are Poodles hyper? They sure love to run and exercise! Curly Coat When most people picture Poodles, the first thing that comes to mind is their magnificent curly coat. Most mature poodle show breeds should have tight, even curls if they have a pure bloodline. Curly coats require regular, careful grooming sessions to prevent tangles and matting. Dogs with hairy ears are more likely to catch dirt and debris in their ear canal, paving the way for blockages and worse. Wavy Coat While show poodles must have tight curls, most standard varieties and poodle mixes have wavy fur. Wavy hair is often softer and more manageable than curly hair, making it a popular choice amongst dog owners looking for a low-maintenance grooming schedule. Hair will form into small ropes around the head, ears, and body. However, keep in mind that a corded coat requires even more maintenance than curls. You must work to keep the hair clean from dirt, debris, and oils by carefully squeezing shampoo into the coat instead of scrubbing it. As one of the most common colors of poodle, chocolate varieties tend to be on the cheaper end of the scale when it comes to price. It prevents knotting and matting that may lead to more serious issues such as sores and infections down the line. How you care for your poodle will depend on its coat type and whether it has curly, wavy, or corded fur. When in doubt, ask your groomer for home care tips between visits. 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. We are 5-month-old Standard Poodles weighing about lbs. While I love to play with my foster siblings, I really just want calm space to hang out with my humans and other fur friends. I wake and jump into bed to give my foster parents good morning snuggles! I enjoy a light morning snack and spend the rest of the day napping and hanging out with the humans while they work. After work, all bets are off, and I make sure to get all the puppy zoomies out. My leash training is going well, but I often try to chase the leaves and get distracted by unfamiliar sights and smells. I love to go outside to play, chew on a stick or take a walk. I also enjoy down time with humans to cuddle and get lots of belly rubs. I start my day at am, go potty, then breakfast. After I like going outside to chase squirrels and play. I then have dinner around pm and in my crate by 10pm for bed. I love learning tricks and am very food motivated! I also like to try and outsmart my foster parents when they hide my treats or sticks, I bring inside. I am very curious and love to explore, play, eat, and cuddle. Now that I am older, I can make it through the night without any potty accidents but I need to go outside as soon as I am up, usually around 7am. I eat breakfast then it's right back outside for my next potty break! I like to have a chew bone and play for a while, then naps. I like to sit on the couch next to my foster mom, or lay on my back sprawled out on the floor. I love going for walks and am learning to not pull. I bark a little at other dogs but I am very dog and people friendly. Nights are pretty low key, I may play a little before bed time, where I prefer to sleep next to my foster parent's bed. I love to cuddle if you'll allow me up too! Since I am still a puppy, I need reinforcements with potty training, proper leash walking, and learning what and what not to chew on. I am just a super sweet girl and can't wait to share my love with you! Our Story A house is not a home without a Standard Poodle. As you already know, my name is Wendy. My older sister Holley and I were born in the sand hills of North Carolina and have lived here all our lives. Most of the time when we were children, it was just Cindy my Mom, and the two of us. My mama accepted Christ as a young teenager. Holley and I were blessed to have accepted Christ as our personal Savior at a young age. We also attended and graduated from Christian schools which was another way my mom wanted to assure us of a happy future, with Christ at the center of our lives. Mama saw to it we had every type pet we wanted from parakeets and ferrets to horses. She also made sure we learned the huge responsibility of taking care of them. We learned at a very young age the importance of good cleaning practices, feeding habits and medical care to assure that our pets were all happy and healthy. When Holley was a young teenager and I was about ten we raised and sold rabbits, hamster and mice to local pet stores. We did this to help mama support our horse-showing hobby. The miracle of birth and the sadness of death was a part of our everyday lives. Although things were not perfect in some areas of our lives, this was an amazing, blessed way to grow up. This allowed her to have the biggest desire of her heart, which was to stay at home with Holley and me. This decision allowed her to have a very successful career with an ample income to provide for us. Into the shop one day walked a beautiful pair of black Standard Poodles. It was a mother and her son. Venus, the mother, was a gorgeous, loving, elegant, and petite Standard Poodle. Her son, Keegan, on the other hand, still just a puppy, was a huge combination of fun, personality, intelligence and striking good looks. We were surprised that we fell in love with the Standard Poodle and the Westie, because our favorite breeds had always been the Collie and Sheltie mini collie. Mama groomed Keegan and Venus every few weeks and also trained Keegan. As a result the two were in the shop and in our home on a regular basis. Keegan would come and stay just because we loved him. We grew to love their more confident, protective nature and large size, in comparison to the Shelties. A huge plus in comparing the breed to the Collie, was no shedding or odor. These qualities and the intelligence and loyalty of Keegan and Venus, convinced us this was a breed worth sharing with everyone. This was not always easy for my mom, as a single parent, or for us, as two young girls. But we had lots of support and help from our family, friends, and great employees. We drew most of our strength and wisdom from our Lord and Savior. He was a tall, slender, gentle giant with green eyes and dark hair and was only 16 and Holley only .He became our right hand man and we depended on him during some difficult and trying times. They would become husband and wife after Holley graduated from high school in .Mom met a wonderful man, David! He soon became her husband and the spiritual leader of our family. What a blessing he was then and continues to be. He loved babies of any type, preferably, human, but also loved the horses and puppies. With his amazing sense of humor rubbing off on all of us, work sometimes felt like play. I started flying lessons and thinking about my future. I started praying that God would let me soon meet my husband to be. While taking flying lessons God answered my prayers. I met the man of my dream…Blake. He had blue eyes and dark hair. He was handsome and soft spoken. Their coats may show some variation in color, especially darker feathering on their ears and tipping on their ruffs. This is not a fault according to AKC breed standards. Brown poodles should have liver-colored noses, eye-rims and lips, with dark toenails and dark amber eyes. Brown poodles have a sophisticated look and an easy temperament. Like all poodles, they are lively and intelligent, perhaps one of the most easily trained of all dogs. Poodles are often preferred for agility and obedience competitions. And when properly socialized, they are among the happiest of breeds. Our puppies are accustomed to being around children, neighbors, other dogs and cats, so they exhibit none of the shyness that other poodles can display. These are happy, good-natured pups, full of fun and frolic. They are truly ready to become a member of your family. How do you know which one is the right puppy for you? Often people say that you should let the puppy choose you, but that can result in a quieter, gentler puppy being overlooked. The most outgoing puppy may have more energy than you will be able to handle once you get him home. Often the best puppy is one in the middle of the temperament range, neither too bold nor too shy. Poodles Info.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Commerce Georgia and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Labradoodles are not only endearing and full of personality, but they also offer a host of benefits that make them the ideal choice for those new to dog ownership. Easy to Train Labradoodles are known for their intelligence.Read more » Continue Reading.This is great advice, as crate training your Labradoodle early will make things easier as they get older. Health Tested. What does that even mean? One of the biggest parts of being a reputable breeder is health testing. While yearly vet checkups are important there is so much more that goes into making sure.Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? When you adopt a puppy, no matter what they of puppy they are they will need to be trained. As such, many to-be-dog owners look to see if their particular breed is easy to train before they plan on adopting. You may have fallen in love with the adorable face and curls of the Labradoodle, Visitors, treats, decorations, and more can all cause stress and harm to our Labradoodles. We want our four-legged friends to enjoy Halloween as much as we do, so make sure you follow these Halloween safety tips for Labradoodles. Hide away the candy.Our Labradoodles, however, will feel the heat even more so than we do. So, what can we do to keep our Labradoodles safe and healthy.Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles are a wonderful breed. Read on to learn more. However, reality is a bit.In fact, they have three! If you just adopted a labradoodle puppy, they could have a fleece, wool, or hair coat. Below we explain the qualities and characteristics of all three. Fleece A fleece coat is soft and easy to manage. Thanks to its.How to Exercise Your Labradoodle Labradoodles can live a long time, up to 16 years on average. However, to ensure you spend as many years as possible with your Labradoodle, you need to take care of its health. That means feeding them well and exercising your pup regularly. But each breed of dog has different exercise requirements, so how can.But have no fear. Here are.Doodle Grooming Warning…this is going to be long and I am not a professional by any means but I have experience with grooming all our doodles! Grooming is key in the life of your doodle! I think of grooming as a bonding time between me and my dog. The goal is to start young so they.Hazel's Story How we came to get Hazel is a crazy story. If you have been following us for a while you may remember my first female poodle Sophie black and white. She failed her health testing so per her health guarantee we would get a replacement puppy. Her breeder rarely has litters but by chance had some.You can breed many generations F1, F1b, multi-generational but no matter what the results are essentially the same. There is no breed standard so.I want the best for my dogs nutritionally, health wise, life wise, and improving our breeding program. Everyone had great things to say about it.Our original start: Have you ever wondered how we chose our name? The C comes from my name Casey and the.She is an English Cream Golden Retriever and we are completely in love. With our decision to retire Bella we decided to go ahead and start looking for our next mama. After much thought we decided that we wanted to looking into adding Goldendoodles.Hybrid Vigor…. Did you know that with a crossbred dog you get added benefits? I had read about hybrid vigor when I was researching at our start. Then in college it is something we talk about regularly in all of my livestock production classes as a way of bettering our herds. Our Nursery Phase I…. We must always be willing to change things and discover.Picture Perfect…. One of my favorite things to do is take pictures of the puppies. I just want to give a little insight into what all.There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…a time to weep and a time to laugh. Ecclesiastes We experienced both of these seasons in a short time. My papa passed away on a Sunday and the next.Choosing Our Dogs…. If you have ever purchased a dog you might know how long of a process choosing the right one can be. Just like many of the people who have purchased from us have said they have searched for maybe months or years for a reputable breeder before us, we also have been through the same.Bella was our first baby. From there it all.Contact Us. Our History. K iokee Creek lazily meanders down the back of the property. It also is the name of the first Baptist Church in Georgia, which was started by Daniel Marshall in .The reverend is the grandfather, 6 generations back, of Tammy Marshall Meissner, the owner of Double Gap Farm, and is on the land that was part of the original Marshall homestead. The property was granted to Daniel Marshall and his sons for their service in the Revolutionary War. Breeding for Health. For those unfamiliar with Labradoodles, there are two classifications. One of the benefits of crossing two different breeds is to minimize the health issues that are associated with each breed. The Labradoodle. The labradoodle has been in existence since when an Australian breeder crossed the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle. The purpose was to combine the low-shedding coat of the poodle with the loyalty and trainability of a Labrador Retriever. The result was a hypoallergenic guide dog that was immediately loved by all who met him. Since then the breed has increased in popularity in the United States and all across the world.

Which dog should I get? German Shepherd or Rottweiler? While they may have a ferocious reputation, the Rottweiler makes for a calm and courageous companion when paired with an experienced pet parent who is willing to invest time into training and socializing them. In contrast, the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and not nearly as headstrong as the Rottweiler and this, coupled with how praise-motivated they are makes them easier to train. From size to strength and intelligence to aggression, read on to find out which canine companion is right for you. German Shepherd Image credit: Getty Images Bred as a sheep herding dog, the German Shepherd is an intelligent, brave, confident dog eager to please its owner. Often used as police dogs, this working breed is easy to train as it is a fast learner and is motivated by praise and play. They have lots of energy so they will need more exercise — about two hours a day. They love to play, but are not as goofy as the Rottweiler. The breed comes in black and tan, blue, white and black colour variations. They live for around years, but are generally healthy dogs. Rottweiler Image credit: Getty The Rottweiler was originally used by the Romans to pull carts, herd cattle and guard homes. This breed is a loyal and affectionate protector. Also used as police and service dogs, they love to work, but are more motivated by food than the German Shepherd. The Rottweiler is a good, loveable pup. Their short to medium double coat is generally always black and tan. They live around years and are also quite healthy dogs. Rottweilers have a more square and stocky build, with males measuring around in cm at shoulder height and females around in .Males weigh around lb .Male German Shepherds measure around in cm at shoulder height and females around in cm. Their bodies are longer and more athletic. The Rottweiler probably has a slight advantage when it comes to strength because it has a more muscular, heavier build and they were built for carrying and pulling weight, whereas the German Shepherd is more agile. However both breeds were bred to protect and should not show aggression if trained properly. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd: Health Given the proper care, both of these breeds tend to be relatively healthy. However, as with all large breeds, they're naturally predisposed to certain health conditions that their smaller brothers and sisters aren't — such as hip dysplasia. The Rottweiler is also more likely to suffer from conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy and hypothyroidism, while the German Shepherd is prone to bloat and degenerative myelopathy. Check out our guide to five German Shepherd health issues you need to know about for more on this. Both of these breeds will benefit from the best dry dog food or wet food that's been specifically formulated for large breeds. It's important not to overfeed them as they're prone to weight gain if overfed and under-exercised and excess weight will put pressure on their joints. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd: Intelligence These two breeds are both intelligent. However the German Shepherd is considered the third smartest dog breed after the Border Collie and the Poodle in terms of work intelligence and obedience according to a study by canine psychologist Dr Stanley Coren. The Rottweiler ranked ninth on the list, showing that both breeds are smart but the German Shepherd learns more quickly. However, any dog can become aggressive if not trained properly and this does not necessarily mean that German Shepherds are more aggressive as this breed is more common. Although both breeds have a reputation for being aggressive, this is an unfair stereotype. Why do police use German Shepherds instead of Rottweilers? German Shepherds make great police dogs. Although Rottweilers are also smart and easy to train and have also been used by the force , they are not as athletic and do not have the same endurance. Their strength is also a hindrance in police work as often when apprehending felons, more care and less strength is needed to reduce damage. Whether you choose a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler will very much come down to your personality as well as theirs. They are very similar breeds and both will make loyal, loving protective family dogs. The German Shepherd will be slightly easier to train, but will need more exercise, whereas the Rottweiler will be a goofier companion and will eat more due to its size. Both are healthy dogs with a similar lifespan but look out for common health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia in both breeds and cardiac concerns with the Rottie. For more on these two breeds, check out our guides to 10 surprising Rottweiler facts and six pawsome German Shepherd facts. Today's best deals on wet dog food. They are both working breeds, and a strong work ethic is central to their personalities. They are also both as stubborn as you can imagine. Rottweilers are fairly ancient dogs, and they were kept by the Romans to maintain the herds that would accompany their armies. They had to be ferocious enough to keep cattle in line, while also having enough endurance to keep up with an army on the march. They were primarily created to act as scouts and sentries at army installations. As a result, they had to be focused, dedicated, and ready to follow orders. Their backgrounds mean that these dogs require a firm and competent hand in training. Typically, neither breed is recommended for first-time owners. You should have some experience training and leading dogs before taking on one of these headstrong breeds. Also, early socialization is absolutely critical. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay Training Styles Both breeds respond well to positive reinforcement, but neither one is likely to tolerate negative discipline techniques like shock collars, physical aggression, or yelling. German Shepherds are big, goofy animals, and as such, they tend to be motivated by play. You can teach a lot of important commands by incorporating them into a game or using playtime as a reward for successfully completing the training. Rotties, on the other hand, love to eat. They tend to be extremely food-motivated, so you may have to hand over some treats if you want him to sit and stay. Be careful about being too generous with the cookies, though, because the breed can be prone to obesity. Both are extremely intelligent, so you have to be consistent with your training practices and rigorous with your commands. German Shepherds tend to follow every command to the letter, so if you misspeak, you could have to redo some training. Rottweilers love to bend the rules, though, so you have to watch them like a hawk and not let them get away with anything. Exercise Requirements Once we told you that these were working dogs, you should have already known that neither one would be satisfied sitting next to you on the couch all day binge-watching Netflix. Both these dogs need a fair amount of vigorous exercise — about an hour a day for Rottweilers, and roughly twice that much for German Shepherds. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, and perhaps more so. They need regular training, and you should consider investing in puzzle toys and other intellectual games. Both breeds also take well to sports like agility training. Bottom line: while neither breed is ideal for a family of couch potatoes, German Shepherds require even more activity than Rotties. Rottweilers are big dogs. Really big. They have broad chests, big heads, and plenty of power packed into their bodies. German Shepherds are longer and leaner. These dogs can also seem bigger than they are due to their massive coats more on that later. As you might expect, given their shapes and sizes, the two breeds have different physicalities as well. For Rottweilers, obesity can be a problem. This leads to heart issues, spinal problems, hip dysplasia, and more. German Shepherds, on the other hand, are extremely likely to suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia. They suffer arthritis at high rates as well, and degenerative disc disease is a concern due to the slope of their backs. Intelligence As noted earlier, these are two of the smartest dog breeds on the planet. According to neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, the author of The Intelligence of Dogs, German Shepherds are the third-smartest breed, while Rottweilers come in at ninth on the list. That means that both breeds will be quick studies in training, and they may pick up lessons you never intended to teach. It also means that you have to always be on your toes, as you might think that you left the peanut butter out of reach, only to find an empty jar when you wake up in the morning. Both dogs can also be accomplished escape artists if left alone in the backyard for too long. While you might assume that smarter is automatically better when it comes to dogs, you should realize that more intelligent dogs usually require more stimulation and more dedicated training. That said, both these animals are guard dogs by nature. However, when given proper socialization and training, both breeds can be extremely friendly and loving to everyone. Image Credit: , Pxhere Compatibility with Other Pets As with friendliness, this more dependent on training and socialization than anything else. At their core, however, neither breed is particularly fond of other animals. The sad truth is that both breeds have been used as fighting dogs in the past. Also, they both have fairly strong prey drives, so it might not be the best idea to bring a cat in the house. In fact, Rottweilers are much more likely to tolerate cats in the house than other dogs. Grooming Requirements Rottweilers are fairly low-maintenance, as they have short coats and only tend to shed seasonally. As a result, you can get away with only brushing a Rottie occasionally. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have extremely dense, long coats, and their fur gets absolutely everywhere. Both should be fine with only a couple baths a year, unless, of course, they find something disgusting to roll in. Frequently Asked Questions Which is better for families with small children? Either the Rottweiler or German Shepherd can be perfect for families with kids — and either breed can be a disaster. Once again, it all comes down to proper training and socialization. You also need to teach your kids how to behave around canines; doing so will protect them from any dogs they come across, not just your own. Which makes for a better therapy dog? Both are commonly used as therapy dogs, as both have the intelligence and discipline to handle any task asked of them. If you see any of these, stop the activity immediately and consult a licensed trainer or behavioralist. Which breed is more expensive to own? Oh, how they can eat. Expect to spend more on dog food if you get a Rottweiler. While these dogs are fantastic and worth every bit of trouble they cause, they do make moving a bit of a hassle. Which breed drools more? If you welcome puppy kisses, though, Rottweilers should be your pick. What should I look for in a puppy? Be sure to actually visit the breeder before buying, and look for any signs that the dogs are abused or neglected. Also, check and see how the breeder interacts with the dogs. Do they seem to love the animals, or are they seen as nuisances? Bring your kids with you so you can see how it responds to children as well. Ask the staff there for their opinions as well most dogs undergo temperament tests in animal shelters. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd — Which to Choose? German Shepherds are slightly less expensive to own , love to play, and take commands very literally. They also require about twice the amount of exercise and exponentially more grooming. Rottweilers, on the other hand, are extremely powerful, food-motivated, and love to test boundaries. Both breeds are known for their large size, intelligence, and loyal nature. Rottweilers, with distinctive black and tan coats, are typically pretty enormous and have a more muscular body. On the other hand, German Shepherds are slightly smaller and typically have a black and tan or all-black coat. Both breeds are excellent family pets but require firm, consistent training to prevent aggressive behavior. Overall, these breeds are beloved by many for their courage, loyalty, and protective instincts. Rottweiler vs. While the breeds may be similar, the Rottweiler generally has a bulkier build with more muscle mass, while the German Shepherd has a leaner and more agile frame. Additionally, Rottweilers typically have a short, glossy coat in shades of black and brown, while the German Shepherd has a thick fur coat ranging from black and tan to sable. The differences in their appearance may contribute to their respective roles as working breeds. Ultimately, both breeds are stunning in their own ways and are loved by their families for their unique characteristics. Size Rottweilers are generally larger than German Shepherds, with males weighing up to pounds and standing between inches at the shoulder. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are usually not more than 85 pounds and stand inches tall. Coat Rottweilers have a short, dense coat that is black with tan markings. The fur of a German Shepherd is also double-layered, but it can be either long or short and comes in many different colors, including black, tan, white, and sable. Training Both breeds are highly trainable and make great service dogs, but the training methods used for each breed may differ slightly. Rottweilers may respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as reward-based training. In contrast, German Shepherds may be better suited for corrections or commands when learning new tasks. However, they have different behavioral traits that potential owners should consider. Rottweilers have a protective nature and are known for their defensive instincts. They are wary of strangers and can go wild if they feel any threat. However, German Shepherds are more social and easier to train. They are loyal and obedient, making them the go-to breed for law enforcement and military work. Moreover, below mentioned personality differences will help you further to make a more informed decision. Personality and Temperament When choosing between a Rottweiler and a German Shepherd, understanding their unique personalities and temperaments is crucial in making an informed decision. Both breeds are large, loyal, and intelligent, but notable differences exist. Rottweilers tend to be more reserved and calm, while German Shepherds are more outgoing and lively. Additionally, Rottweilers are also known for their unwavering loyalty and protectiveness toward their family. German Shepherds are highly trainable and excel in working roles such as police or military dogs. Due to their size, Rottweilers may require more food and larger beds, which could result in higher monthly costs. On the other hand, German Shepherds may have higher veterinary costs due to potential health issues such as hip dysplasia. Pros and Cons: Rottweiler Vs. German Shepherd Choosing between these two dog breeds can be challenging for any canine enthusiast. It is because both breeds have their advantages and drawbacks. Rottweilers are known for their imposing size and defensive nature, making them perfect guard dogs. However, their reputation can also make them intimidating to strangers, and they require plenty of socialization and training. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, and easy to train, making them ideal for families. They also have an incredibly strong sense of smell and are often used as police or service dogs. However, they can be prone to health issues and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Exercise Requirements As two dog breeds with high energy levels, the Rottweiler and German Shepherd have unique exercise requirements to keep them happy and healthy. Rottweilers are known for their powerful build and require daily exercise for at least an hour, with a mix of walks, jogs, and playtime. On the other hand, German Shepherds are bred for herding and require a lot of mental stimulation through activities such as obedience training, agility courses, and interactive playtime. Both breeds benefit significantly from regular exercise, which can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. Grooming Needs Rottweilers have a short double coat, which means they require minimal grooming. Brush your Rottweiler once or twice a week to remove any loose hair or dirt. You should also check for any fleas or ticks when you brush your Rottweiler. On the other hand, German Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, requiring more frequent brushing and grooming. While each breed has specific needs, keeping up with grooming will help your Rottweiler or German Shepherd look their best and ensure they stay healthy and happy for years. Life Expectancy Rottweilers usually live between years on average, while German Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years. However, both breeds can live longer if given the proper care and nutrition. Bear in mind that the rottweiler is significantly larger, and will therefore need a lot more space and food. When it comes to exercise requirements they are both breeds of high energy levels and need lots of daily exercise to stay happy. In addition, the cost of ownership can vary dramatically depending on factors such as specific dietary requirements, health expenses, adequate training, and more. Whether you get a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd, it is essential to carefully consider the pros and cons of either breed before bringing them into your home. But, also remember, that each dog has its own personality and characteristics. Above all, your dogs personality will be shaped after how you raise them. Giving them mountains of love and a few treats will inevitably produce a loving dog. Thank you for reading this article! Keen for another comparison between two dog breeds? Head over to uncover the differences between the Beagle Vs. Many people living in apartments, especially those who live alone, consider getting a dog for companionship. Having a dog definitely lessens the feeling of loneliness and adds comfort and affection to an otherwise solitary space. However, not all dogs are suitable for apartment living. Several factors contribute to whether a specific breed is compatible with a smaller space or bigger houses with fenced yards. Generally, smaller dogs fare better in apartment living. This is simply because they require less space to move around, and smaller breeds require less exercise than their larger counterparts. They are also a bit easier to maintain especially for busy apartment dwellers. However, there are matters that you need to consider carefully before committing to a GSD or a Rottweiler. German Shepherds Can Be Good Apartment Dogs Although not ideal, German Shepherds can definitely thrive in apartment living , thanks to their high adaptability to changing environments. But you should be prepared to meet the following conditions to provide your GSD an good life while living in a relatively small space: Breed-restriction Laws In some states, apartments impose breed-restriction laws on their tenants, which means that there are specific breeds that are not permitted. The idea behind these laws is to prevent dog attacks by potentially dangerous breeds. Unfortunately, GSDs are one of those prohibited breeds. However, some private apartment owners can be negotiated with, but corporate owners are much harder to convince, as they carry much higher liability for any such occurrence. In the case of the latter, their decision must be respected and you are left with the choice of moving to another apartment that accepts GSDs or choosing another breed. Exercise You need to exercise your GSD daily. If your apartment does not have a spacious area where you can exercise your dog, it must at least have a nearby park that you can visit everyday. Remember that exercise is a must for active dogs like German Shepherds! As a rule of thumb, your German Shepherd must have at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily. Separation Anxiety You should not leave your GSD alone for long periods of time, as they are prone to separation anxiety. As a rule of thumb, adult GSDs should only be left alone for a maximum of four hours, while puppies should be left alone no longer than three hours. Neighbors Your GSD must be trained to behave well around your neighbors. Keep in mind that many people are very scared of large dogs. Noise GSDs are vocal dogs, and they will bark a lot especially if they are untrained! If your apartment has weak soundproofing or thin walls, this can be very annoying for your neighbors who only want to live peacefully inside their units. Shedding GSDs shed a lot, thanks to their double coats. Consequently, you must prepare yourself to clean your apartment often to get rid of all the hair. Adult Rottweilers Do Better in Apartments Rottweilers can cope living inside apartments, but keep in mind that adult Rotts are more suitable for this type of space than puppies because of their lower energy levels. Rott puppies are very high-energy dogs. Because they are bred as working dogs, they will be very curious and will always look for something to do. All that pent-up energy should be channeled into something useful like exercise. Otherwise, the puppy will become bored and turn to destructive behaviors such as chewing objects or digging. Your Rottweiler puppy will need at least two walks a day and an additional hour of playtime. This is a commitment that you should be aware about, since it can be too much to handle for an owner who is always busy. The need for exercise is exactly why a fenced yard is perfect for high-energy dogs such as GSDs and Rotts. When a Rott puppy becomes an adult, he will naturally become less active, so living in an apartment will not be much of a problem. However, a Rottweiler will still need sufficient daily exercise to prevent weight gain, since Rotts, being naturally heavyset, are very prone to obesity. Frequent Potty Time Because puppies have less control over their bladder, they will need to go to the bathroom very often — usually every 30 minutes to 1 hour. It is important to establish where the bathroom is for your puppy while he is still young. Ideally, train him to take a pee outside to avoid the difficulty of transitioning him from peeing inside to outside. Socialization Rottweilers are very social dogs; they love being with their owners all the time. Nevertheless, they are not very keen on other dogs, which is why socialization that starts from an early age is very important. Socialization lessens the manifestation of undesirable traits, the most prominent being aggression. As dogs who always like to see where their master is, Rottweilers can do well in a small space where they will not have to follow them around. But if you leave your Rott alone in the apartment for several hours, he may become bored and anxious and act out by destroying things, digging, barking incessantly, whining, or peeing everywhere. As a rule of thumb, do not leave your Rottweiler alone for more than 6 hours a day. And do not do this abruptly. Rather, transition slowly and in increments. If you have to leave him for longer than that, consider getting a dogsitter. Breed Restrictions Unfortunately, Rottweilers are also almost always included in the list of dog breeds that are prohibited in apartments. Always check with the management first to find out if they impose these restrictions or not. Neighbors Keep in mind that many people are fearful of big dogs in general, but more so of Rottweilers because of their popular reputation as aggressive dogs. While your dog may be well-mannered, you cannot always control how your neighbors will react in his presence. Both German Shepherds and RottweilerS are massive dogs, which is why many people often wonder if they are safe to be around children. Regardless, adult supervision is still always necessary. German Shepherds Can Be Wonderful Companions for Your Children If you search the Internet for photos of German Shepherds with children, you will most likely see a bunch of cute photos of kids cuddling these dogs. German Shepherds are natural protectors, having been bred originally as protectors of sheep and human properties. They are extremely loyal to their owners. This makes them an excellent breed to have around children! However, you need to set up your GSD for success first so that a safe, fun, and loving relationship can grow between your children and your dog. Below are some general pointers to remember that will foster a harmonious relationship between your GSD and your child: Socialization The best way to turn your GSD from an overprotective, fearful dog into a welcoming and friendly companion is to expose him to kids as early as possible. Actually, regardless of whether you have kids or not, socialization is a key part of training that is most responsible for a dog that is well-behaved around people other than the owner. If you have a child and you want to ensure that your dog will behave well around him or her, a great deal of consistent socialization is a must. The key is to expose your dog not just to your own kids but to other people — adults and children alike. This teaches your dog proper responses towards strangers, and that not everyone is out to get him. Begin socializing your puppy as soon as you get him home and be consistent about it. This is the only way that the training will be retained in your puppy for long. Training Obedience training and socialization go hand-in-hand. Both need to be introduced to your puppy as early as possible for the best possible behavior outcome. Similarly, a simple command can prevent any untoward incidents from occurring between your dog and your child. Simply put, a well-trained dog is a well-behaved dog. Be sure to read this comprehensive guide all about training your German Shepherd. This is most often true. GSDs are very active dogs, hence their energy must be spent on physical activities to prevent boredom and make them calmer afterwards. Giving them activities to do gives them a sense of accomplishment and channels their energy into appropriate places. In this respect, you will find that your German Shepherd is not too different than you are! Simply speaking, a dog that is well-exercised keeps the high energy at bay, thus preventing excited behavior from harming your child. If your dog is bursting with too much unspent energy, he will be rougher during playtime. He may jump on your child or playfully bite more often, which can lead to serious physical injuries. Unfortunately, many parents overlook this aspect, putting all the blame on the poor dog whenever ugly situations occur. A relationship must be a two-way street. Do not expect your dog to be perfect and always gentle if he is not being treated fairly in the first place! Many dog bites in America are caused by children teasing or being too rough on dogs. Supervision All dogs can be unpredictable. Even the most well-behaved dog on the planet can snap due to a seemingly random trigger. Always supervise their interactions. This is because both breeds are huge, intelligent guard dogs with an inherent desire to protect their owners. Born with a natural self-confidence and a watchful nature, Rottweilers can be excellent protectors of children. They are also goofy and playful, making them entertaining and rewarding pets for your kids. But for Rottweilers and children to hang out together peacefully, the same key principles must be followed: socialization, training, exercise, education, and supervision. The only difference, perhaps, is that Rottweilers need firmer obedience training because they have the tendency to be stubborn , especially the males. They are quite intelligent dogs that can pick up commands easily, but they are at times known to challenge their owners during training. Hence, training should be done early, firmly, and consistently. However, this also means they can become jealous easily when a new member enters the family. Male Rottweilers tend to mature slower than females. Female Rotts tend to be calmer and easier to command and may be more appropriate for your child. On the other hand, it can also be disaster for your kid. A simple excited jump can unintentionally knock down your child. While Rotts are sturdy and blocky, never allow your child to ride on their back as this can still hurt the dog. This is where your supervision matters. Never leave your Rottweiler and your child alone! Include your child in the training of your Rottweiler. Training should NEVER include any physical punishments such as hitting or pinning the dog to the ground. This is cruel and counterproductive and can lead to undesired behavior in your Rottweiler. This information might be useful if you have other dogs or cats in the house or are planning to bring home a new one. German Shepherds Can Coexist with Other Dogs Generally, German Shepherds can live peacefully with other dogs in the house provided that they have been socialized early. Socialization means exposing your GSD to other dogs, animals, people, places, and senses. This helps your dog adjust his behavior towards creatures other than him and teaches him the idea that not everything that moves is a prey. Socialization also reduces anxiety in your GSD, which can sometimes manifest as aggression. It helps your dog stay calm and confident in most situations. The key to a successful socialization that yields the best results is timing and consistency. Patience and consistency are key to making this successful. They view other dogs as threats or enemies. Sometimes, there are other reasons behind the aggression that are not covered by socialization training. These are the following: Your dog has experienced trauma or negative experiences from other dogs in the past. There is a sudden change in lifestyle or the environment, such as moving into another location or welcoming a new member of the family. While GSDs are generally adaptable and flexible, individual dogs can still exhibit different responses. Your dog is not spayed. In this case, the hormones responsible for the aggression are still active. Your dog is ill. For a more in-depth discussion on this topic, be sure to read this informative article: How to Socialize Your German Shepherd German Shepherds and Cats While the thought of a big dog with a high prey drive and a cautious cat together can be hard to imagine, the truth is that German Shepherds and cats can get along nicely most of the time. But it may still depend on the individual personalities of both animals and their past experiences which may shape their present reactions. The most obvious instances are chasing little animals such as squirrels and cats and biting or chewing furniture, or even your hand! Of course, with proper socialization between the two animals, coexistence is definitely possible. The keys to preventing a disastrous first meeting is to start slow , create a safe space for the cat where she can be protected from a potential attack e. Rottweilers and Other Dogs Rottweilers are territorial dogs, and they may have issues particularly with dogs of the same sex. Despite that, coexistence between a Rott and another dog in the household is definitely possible if the Rott has been exposed to other animals while he is young. The most important requirement for setting up a peaceful relationship between a Rott and another dog is your training and supervision. Armed with the knowledge that Rotts can have aggressive tendencies, it is your responsibility as the owner then to make sure that your dog is even-tempered. Muzzling Your Dog: Good or Bad? In fact, in some countries like Singapore , muzzling a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd is required when visiting public areas. Proper muzzling also requires training, so be sure to start at an early age so that your pup becomes accustomed to it. Waiting until your dog is older to muzzle train can be a traumatic experience for them. Always remember to supervise your dog at all times even if he is trained, as he can snap into instinctive protective behavior if he perceives something as a threat. Rottweilers and Cats Rottweilers and cats can live together peacefully inside the same house provided that they have been properly socialized together when they are young. It can be said that Rotts get along even better with cats than with other dogs of the same sex. The same guidelines in proper introductions apply: There must be a safe space for the cat to run to or hide. The dog must be leashed at the first meeting. Introduction must be gradual, starting with scents first and then slowly moving on to face-to-face meetings. All interactions must be supervised. What Are Their Grooming Requirements? German Shepherds and the Rottweiler have essentially the same grooming requirements with a few small differences. We will now highlight these differences below. Keep in mind, however, that German Shepherds will require more brushing because they are heavy shedders, which can be attributed to their thick double coats. A simple slicker brush like the Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush can effectively rake the finer undercoat of your dog. Nail trimming: Nails should not be overlooked in grooming dogs, as they can hurt the dog and its owners once they get too long. To trim the nails, you can either use clippers or a nail grinder. Dental care: Like humans, dogs also need their teeth cleaned to keep their breath fresh and to prevent mouth diseases. Ideally, brushing should be daily or at least several times a week using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental chews also help clean the teeth. Ear cleaning. Rottweilers have a flat, medium-length outer coat all over their bodies and an undercoat on the neck and thighs. However, it must still be done weekly to minimize shedding. Unlike GSDs, Rotts are only seasonal shedders , but they may shed moderately throughout the year. Some adult Rotts with dominant personalities may feel uncomfortable with being brushed all the way down the back. Unless your Rottweiler gets dirty very often, bathing every few months is enough. Toothbrushing and nail trimming must be done weekly. Because they are black dogs, they have black nails that are trickier to trim. Here is a straightforward video on how to trim black nails on a large dog: Grooming Pros and Cons.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium.

Labs are known for excellence as sporting dogs, family companions and service dogs. Their coats come in three colors: black, yellow and chocolate, each strikingly beautiful. Regular grooming helps keep Labs looking good and helps manage their prolific shedding. Start grooming sessions while your Lab is a puppy. Labrador Coats Ablestock. Labradors have double coats -- two layers of hair, each with different texture and purpose. One layer provides water resistance, the other insulates the dogs in all types of weather. The outer layer, the guard coat, keeps a Labrador dry in wet weather. The undercoat is soft and downy, like a sweater, providing warmth. According to the American Kennel Club's breed standard, a Lab's coat "should be short, straight and very dense, giving a fairly hard feeling to the hand. The double coats, however, create two separate shedding issues: The undercoat blows about twice a year, and the outer coat sheds throughout the year. Breeders must be sure to educate puppy buyers and help them prepare for the attention needed to care for a Lab's constantly shedding coat. Puppies will start to shed their baby coats at about age 4 to 5 months; within a month or so, their coats will have transformed into the adult version. Most adult Labs shed twice a year, and during this time you will notice lots of hair around the house. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner. Your tack box or supply drawer should have a wire slicker brush to remove loose undercoat, a bristle brush, a narrow-tooth comb, a wide-tooth comb and nail clippers. Brush your Lab at least twice a week to distribute natural oils throughout the coat as well as to keep the hair from distributing itself throughout your house. Grooming sessions also strengthen your bond with your dog. Develop a regular grooming schedule for your dog. You'll come to enjoy the peaceful time you spend together. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Updated: Nov 15, When it comes to coat color of Labrador puppies, there are three colors recognized by the American Kennel Club. Black Labs, yellow Labs, and brown Labs often called chocolate Labs are the three main varieties of Labrador retriever, however these puppies often exhibit different shades of black, yellow, and brown fur. So with so much variation, what causes a difference in color? Where it begins to get tricky is when we discuss the genetics of black labs and chocolate labs when compared to yellow lab. Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene. When it comes to the coats of Labrador puppies, fur color is determined by one of two different genes, as well as a variety of alleles. When it comes to black lab puppies and chocolate lab puppies, both varieties inherit their fur color from a single gene, known as "Tyrosinase-related protein 1. Here we have two dominant genes for black fur, obviously resulting in a black lab puppy. In a situation in which either parent passes on the dominant allele and the other passes on the recessive, the lab puppy will still have a black coat. When both parents pass on the recessive allele, only then do we see a chocolate lab puppy. So, Where Does Yellow Come from? Yellow Labrador puppies get their hair color from a gene entirely different from the gene that determines black or brown fur. Melanocortin 1 receptor MC1R is the gene responsible for yellow lab puppies, but can still result in fur coats of black and brown. As you may have deduced, the allele for yellow lab puppies is recessive. Both parents pass on dominant alleles for black or chocolate fur, resulting in a black or chocolate puppy. Only in a situation in which both parents pass on alleles coding for yellow fur is the TYRP1 gene overridden and yellow lab puppies are produced. What is also interesting about the creation of yellow lab puppies is the fact that while their fur coat is without black or brown pigment, their skin will still exhibit the same color pigment as that of black or chocolate lab puppies. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Any good pet owner can feel anxious about how their dog may respond to extra-cold winter nights. As a puppy parent, you may even find yourself wondering if it would be worth the money to buy a coat for your Labrador puppy. Labrador puppies do not typically need a coat in the winter because they have a thick, double-coat that provides warmth in colder temperatures. However, protective items such as coats and booties should be considered if extended time in cold weather is expected. I'll also share with you some of my favorite items for cold-weather protection when necessary. Labradors do love the cold! Labradors were bred in historically cold climates , dating back to 16th century Newfoundland. Around the 19th century, traders shipped the breed to England, from which point they slowly made their way around the world to Canada. This breed made a name for itself by swimming through icy waters to assist fishers in pulling in nets filled with their prize. Labradors seemed made for the task, not only because of their webbed paws but also their waterproof, double-insulated coat. The soft, downy undercoat insulates Labradors against the harsh winter chill. Extended periods of cold exposure can put your dog at risk for illness. Puppies can shake for a variety of reasons, but will often do so as a sign of being cold. Your Labrador puppy could be shaking from spending too much time outside in the cold weather. Prolonged exposure to the cold can make your dog ill. If your Labrador puppy is still shaking after being brought indoors, then you may need to consult with a vet for further assistance. They should be fine for fifteen or twenty minutes-- long enough to use the bathroom or get in a quick playtime, but keeping your Labrador outside any longer may result in illnesses related to freezing temperatures. In addition to shaking and shivering, keep an eye out for : Whining. Hmm very interesting! Maisie is definitely not as super soft as she was when she was very little, and I think I noticed the softness difference maybe around 3 months. She used to be soft as a cloud, and then only her head was that soft, and I think now only her ears will stay that way for good. But she is definitely getting some sort of hair growth going on, as before it would be sleek and now has sticky out hair. She's pretty shiny but she seems to be taking after the working line in her pedigree parents weren't strictly show or working line, which I liked, but rather each were fairly moderate examples of the breed , so perhaps that's it? I'm interested to see what it will end up like because I have seen labradors with quite different coats. The sad thing about shedding where I live is that it is a "temperate" climate… so dogs like labs don't shed big twice a year and then somewhat the rest of the year… it's like they're in a constant state of losing hair, not quite as much as a moult, but not down to the level other labs might go to. Tweet on Twitter A fluffy Labrador might not look quite how you think! Labs have a wonderful, thick, double-layered coat. In fact, their coat is one of their most distinctive features. The standard Labrador coat is pretty fluffy in its own right — especially as puppies! But, they will have the same lovable temperament, making a great family pet nonetheless. Do Fluffy Labradors Exist? In the eyes of many people, a standard Labrador Retriever is pretty fluffy. Labs have a lot of fur! Especially during those shedding periods, when owners will find that fur everywhere. Labradors have a double layered, dense, water-resistant coat. This coat type was vital for keeping them at the best temperature in their original roles. Originally, Labs retrieved game for owners on hunts in all conditions, both on land and in water. Nowadays, their roles have changed to include work as police dogs, guide dogs, and companion animals! But, that coat type has stayed the same. As puppies, Labs will have a wonderfully soft and fluffy coat. But, over their early months, this will shed to reveal their adult coat. A standard adult Labrador coat is less fluffy, more dense and practical. The Labrador Retriever breed standard describes a short, dense coat made up of straight fur. This fur will feel firm to the touch. Only the top layer is made of this harder fur. This underlayer is water-resistant, but also provides some much needed insulation against the cold weather that Labradors would traditionally work in. But, it disqualifies any Labs with woolly, silky, or sparse and slick coats. Long Haired Labrador Retriever Although the breed standard states that Labs have short, straight fur, it is possible to find Labradors with a longer, wavier coat. This fur type is caused by the fibroblast growth factor 5 gene, also known as the FGF5 gene, or the L gene. In its recessive form, this gene produces long fur. But, Labradors must receive two copies of the recessive gene to have that longer fur. And, recessive genes can go unnoticed for generations. So it can be quite hard to find long-haired Labs, and is often a complete surprise when they appear in a litter, showing their longer fur at around 6 weeks. Since a long haired Labrador has longer, wavier fur than the standard type, they may fit your vision of a fluffy Labrador. But, many breeders will test dogs for the L gene, to avoid breeding two Labs with recessive copies. So, it can be quite hard to find long haired Labrador puppies. Instead, it will be very soft to the touch, and often a single layer rather than double-layered and water resistant. Over the next few weeks and months, fluffy Labrador puppies shed their baby coat and grow in their new adult coat! Are Fluffy Labradors Purebred? Labradors with fluffy long fur can look quite different to the traditional Labrador image. But, it is entirely possible for purebred Labs to pass it on, even over the span of generations, before anyone notices it! Fluffy, long haired Labradors might look a little different to the standard version. But, they are still purebred Labs, and so will have the same personality as any other Lab. The major care differences between these two types of Lab will lie in their grooming needs. Longer fur is naturally prone to tangles and knots. So, a long haired, fluffy Labrador will likely need more regular grooming than a short haired one. This can be as often as once a day if you have a particularly active Lab, or one that loves running through muddy puddles. Regular bathing and grooming will be a must. But, a fluffy Lab will shed just as much as a shorter haired version. So, be aware of this before committing to the fluffiest Labrador you can find! Do You Have a Fluffy Labrador? A fluffy Labrador can make a great pet, whether they have two copies of the uncommon FDF5 gene, or whether they just have particularly fluffy short fur! Do you have a fluffy Lab puppy at home? Or did you just want to find out exactly how hair Labs can be? Readers Also Liked. But those layers of fur also keep them cool in the summer, and insulate them from warm air. Their coat serves an important function when they go diving headfirst into the river. Next time you take your lab for a swim, keep an eye on how fast they dry. You would think that thick coat would act like a sponge, but because of their water repelling nature, all excess water efficiently runs off. Natural oils are what keep their coat smooth and shiny, so the last thing you want to do is to deprive them of that natural barrier. Which brings us to our next important point: bathing. The short answer: as little as possible. The long answer: bathing your lab too often can strip away those natural oils that help protect them, leaving them with dry, flaky skin that becomes itchy and uncomfortable. So the ideal time to bathe your dog is when they become a little too stinky, or rolls in something less than attractive. When it is time for a full bath to remove some stink, use a mild oatmeal or coconut based dog shampoo that helps keep skin moisturized. Labrador Shedding Do Labs Shed? Oh yes. They shed an impressive amount of coat during the entire year. But it varies from one Labrador to another, and you may get lucky and find your dog sheds considerably less than others. This is a healthy and perfectly normal response. Shedding is a natural process in which many animals including you lose old and damaged hair. So have your vacuum and lint rollers ready. These are definitely shedding dogs. If your dog is suffering from allergies, mites, or skin conditions, they may scratch their fur off. Contact your vet to determine the best course of action. Keep your dog in a comfortable environment, a stressed out dog will naturally shed more. During routine brushing, run your hands over their skin and search for any abnormal lumps or bumps. Labs are prone to developing tumors, especially as they age. These are not always cancerous, however discovering and examining these bumps early can help you and your vet determine the best course of action. Can I Shave my Lab? No, shaving your lab can be detrimental to their health and overall comfort. Some owners mistakenly believe that shaving their dog during hot weather will help them be more comfortable. However, double-coated dogs require their coat to regulate body temperature, protect them from weather, and to act as a natural barrier against harmful UV rays. Also, some allergy sufferers believe shaving your dog will reduce allergic reactions. Again, not true. Allergies are triggered from pet dander, which are particles of skin that shed all year. In fact, shaving a dog may make allergies worse, as you expose their skin even further. Do Labs Have Hair or Fur? You might see me use both terms, just know that they mean the same thing. Are Labs Hypoallergenic? Definitely not. Allergies towards dogs are developed from pet dander not hair , and labs certainly have a lot of it. There are many hypoallergenic dog breeds to choose from , but if you really want the Labrador personality but without the allergic reaction, then consider getting yourself a Labradoodle Labrador-Poodle mix. Coat Colors A yellow, chocolate, and black lab. Yellow labs come in many shades, from a deep orangey color to a faded nearly white yellow. These are sometimes mistaken as Red and White, but are essentially Yellow Labs and are still recognized colors by Kennel clubs. In very rare cases there are Brindle Labradors , again Kennel standards consider this a fault. Brindle is unique orange or tan color markings that appear due to a recessive gene. Skin problems will need to be properly addressed and treated. Labradors are especially susceptible to allergies, and red and itchy skin are common symptoms. Labs can be obsessive lickers and scratchers, which over time will cause them to scratch their own fur off, leaving bald spots or patches. What Has Your Experience Been? What do you do to keep their skin and coat clean and healthy? Related Posts. You might notice that your Labrador puppy is starting to lose a lot of hair. However, there is a good chance you do not have to worry. Labrador puppies usually lose their baby coats when they are months old. They start shedding a lot by this time, but some puppies can start shedding a bit by 3 months old, so it can vary. That is because their fur is falling out faster than it can be replaced. However, that is completely normal. As long as the Labrador puppy is healthy and not stressed, you have nothing to worry about. Additionally, you may notice that your Labrador has subtle changes of color in their coat as their fur falls out and grows, but it varies from each pup. They often lose all of their baby coats a month after they start to shed. By that time, they will have a new adult coat of fur. When puppies are born, they have a puppy coat that is soft and thin. It helps them regulate their own body temperature and protects them from any outside elements. Puppy coats are usually shorter than adult fur. However, their puppy coats are not enough to protect their bodies when they are older. Their adult coats are usually rougher than their baby coats. That is because they grow double coats, which is an essential and helpful trait your Lab has. Labradors have two coats of fur when they are adults. The first coat is coarse and is called the topcoat. The second coat is softer and is called the undercoat. The undercoat can be thick or fine. Labradors have double coats because of their breeding. They are working dogs who hunt and swim. Therefore, they need double coats to protect them from the water and from possible injuries. Dogs cannot sweat. Therefore, they need other ways to keep them warm and cool, which is why some breeds like Labrador Retrievers have double coats. Humans have skin layers, but dogs only have .Therefore, they burn easily, and the guard hairs are their natural sunscreen. As mentioned earlier, double coats help repel water, which keeps their skin dry when they swim. Plus, double coats help your Labrador swim because it does not weigh them down. The fur is practically water repellant, so they will be able to swim without exerting too much effort. As stated earlier, your Labrador will start shedding a lot when they are months old to shed their puppy coat. However, Labradors are notorious for shedding a lot. However, most Labradors will heavily shed at least times a year when they are adults. Since dogs have double coats, their undercoat sheds when it is warm. So, you can expect your Labrador to start shedding a lot when it is spring and summer. They shed their undercoat to prepare their bodies for the warmer months. Can I Shave My Labrador? Absolutely not. First, shaving your Labrador is actually not going to help you deal with the shedding. Your Labrador will grow new hairs, which will be more prickly and painful for both you and them. Those new hairs will fall out, too, so it is not worth the effort. Secondly, you can potentially damage their skin. They do not have any way they can shield their skin from the sun, so they may burn easily. Shaving your Labrador also messes up their temperature regulation. Without their undercoat, they cannot keep hot and cold air away from their skin. Therefore, they may feel extreme temperatures and feel very uncomfortable. Plus, it will be itchy and uncomfortable for your dog to grow new fur after you shave it. Most undercoats will not be the same after you shave it. It will feel prickly when you touch it, and your Labrador will feel very itchy as it grows. Instead of shaving your Labrador , you can use special brushes like a slicker brush to remove their loose undercoat hairs. You can also vacuum your home more regularly to keep it clean. You can brush your Lab a few times a week. However, you may need to brush them times a day during the spring and summer to deal with heavy shedding. To Conclude When you own a Labrador Retriever, a big part of it will be dealing with the fur. While it may be a nuisance, regular grooming and vacuuming can help you deal with the shedding. Post navigation.

By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. French Bulldog puppies have unique dietary needs that require special attention. There are a few key factors to consider. First off, opt for puppy-specific formulas that meet their nutritional requirements. Avoid recipes with fillers or artificial additives — go for wholesome kibble made especially for small dogs like Frenchies. A balanced diet is crucial in preventing common issues such as paw licking or upset tummies. With proper nutrition, your Frenchie pup will be ready to conquer the world one playful bark at a time. This premium dog food provides a balanced diet with a combination of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It contains essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth and support a strong immune system. One of the key features of Royal Canin Small Puppy is its small kibble size, which makes it easier for Frenchie puppies to chew and digest. This formula includes prebiotics to support digestive health and aid in nutrient absorption. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. This grain-inclusive formula includes deboned chicken as the primary source of protein along with wholesome grains like brown rice. The blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in Wellness Complete Health Puppy ensures that your furry friend receives essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe also incorporates omega fatty acids for healthy brain development and DHA for optimal eye health. We have never used this brand but I hear great things about it. This formula features deboned chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support muscle development. What sets Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe apart is its inclusion of whole grains like brown rice and barley. These grains offer a good source of energy and fiber while promoting healthy digestion. The recipe also includes fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes to provide additional nutrients. Royal Canin has been our go to french bulldog puppy food. After trying multiple brands such as Purina, Stella and Chewy, and Merrick no large quantity available for purchase, small bags got expensive , Royal Canin has never let us down. We have never noticed skin problems, intolerance, and poops have always been great. Other brands have caused vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions to name a few. French Bulldog puppies are energetic and growing rapidly, which means they need frequent meals throughout the day. It is recommended to feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. This regular feeding schedule helps maintain their energy levels and supports proper growth. Follow the recommended portion sizes based on their age and weight. Different brands may have specific guidelines tailored for French Bulldog puppies or small breed puppies in general. For puppies aged weeks: 1 cup of food per meal. Victor Ocean Fish All Life Stages Dog Food Remember that these portions can vary depending on individual factors such as activity level and metabolism. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if you notice significant weight gain or loss. Monitor their weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. While puppies naturally gain weight as they grow, excessive weight gain can lead to health issues such as joint problems. Keep an eye on their body condition and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about their weight. If your puppy is gaining too much weight, consider reducing the portion sizes slightly or switching to a lower-calorie puppy food formula. On the other hand, if they are not gaining enough weight or appear undernourished, consult with your vet to determine if an increase in portion size or a different type of food is necessary. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your French Bulldog puppy receives the nutrition they need during this crucial stage of growth. Providing proper nutrition will help set the foundation for a healthy and happy adult French Bulldog. Feeding your Frenchie the wrong food can lead to serious health issues and discomfort. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be highly toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. Onions and Garlic: A Recipe for Anemia While onions and garlic might add flavor to our meals, they pose a significant risk to our four-legged companions. This could lead to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications for your French Bulldog. The exact reason behind this toxicity is still unknown; however, ingestion of these fruits has been linked to kidney failure in some dogs. Xylitol: Sweetness Turns Sour Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products like gum or candy. While it may be harmless for humans, it can be extremely dangerous for dogs. If ingested by your French Bulldog, xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in seizures, liver failure, or even death. Opt for high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their needs. Look for options that include meat protein sources like chicken or salmon, as these are beneficial for their muscle development and overall health. Make sure the food you choose contains adequate amounts of vitamins and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. Avoid foods with excessive fat content that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues such as loose stools. Stick to dog-friendly fruits and veggies as treats instead. Chicken fat as dog food High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. Providing a healthy diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Opting for lean proteins like chicken and turkey ensures they receive high-quality nutrients without excessive fat content. These proteins promote muscle development, support growth, and provide essential amino acids for overall health. Opt for natural alternatives that are free from these artificial additives. Whole Grains: Nourishing Carbohydrate Sources Carbohydrates play a role in providing energy to your puppy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Instead of fillers like corn or wheat that offer limited nutritional value, look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats. These whole food ingredients provide fiber, vitamins, minerals while promoting steady energy levels throughout the day. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat To maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat on your furry friend, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. Sources like fish oil offer an abundance of these beneficial fats that nourish their skin from within. Not only do omega-3s contribute to a shiny coat but they also help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and overall health. By opting for lean proteins, avoiding artificial additives, incorporating whole grains, and including omega-3 fatty acids, you are providing the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a happy and active French Bulldog. So be mindful of what goes into their food bowl to ensure they grow up strong and free from unnecessary health problems. Now that you understand the importance of healthy ingredients in food, you can make informed choices when selecting the very best dog food options for your furry companion. Keep their health in mind as you provide them with nourishing meals that will support their growth and overall well-being. By following these feeding guidelines, you can provide your Frenchie with the balanced nutrition they need to stay in optimal health. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and respiratory difficulties. To keep track of their weight effectively, consider using a digital scale designed for pets or consult with your veterinarian. Adjusting Portion Sizes French Bulldogs have different dietary requirements based on their activity level and age. Puppies require more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development compared to adult dogs. To determine the appropriate portion size for your puppy or adult dog, consider consulting with animal nutritionists or your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on factors such as breed-specific needs and individual metabolism. Excessive treats can contribute to weight gain if not properly regulated. Instead of relying solely on treats for positive reinforcement, try using praise or playtime as alternative rewards. Be mindful of the calorie content in both regular meals and treats. Opt for healthier options like small pieces of lean meat or fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. You could even use it as a meal topper to make meal time more fun. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!

Cockapoo The original Doodle, the Cockapoo , is still a popular choice among those looking to adopt a littler dog. The loving loyalty of the Cocker Spaniel and the proud intelligence of the Poodle makes for one heck of a combo. The perfect canine companion, these gorgeous mutts fit nicely into just about every lifestyle. As one of the small Poodle mixes, moderate exercise needs, and lack of mouthiness, they even do well with apartment living. However, you will need to make plenty of time for these people-oriented pups. Maltipoo Highly sociable, clever, and cute as a button, Maltipoos are excellent for those looking for an absolutely allergy-friendly pal. They love kids, other dogs, and perfect strangers, too. That being said, these dogs can be a little on the loud side at times and will benefit from training and plenty of socialization to reduce this at times irritating behavior. Peekapoo For fans of playful pups, the Peekaboo could be the one. With a history almost as long as the beloved Cockapoo, these darling dogs, formed from regal Pekingese, make excellent lapdogs. While they will stick to their favorite person like the velcro pups they definitely are, they can also be energetic and plenty sporty, given the opportunity. One downside is that Peekapoos could end up inheriting that flat face that creates many of the health issues in their parent pups, but careful breeders are working to eliminate that problem. Pomapoo Known for their Spitz-like good looks all done up in miniature, the foxy Pomeranian passes plenty of its cuteness on to its Doodle offspring, along with that feisty, fun working-dog attitude. Great for inexperienced owners and perfect for fans of super small pups, the Pomapoo is generally a laid-back, happy kind of dog. The biggest issue with these pooches is that their companion animal nature makes them the kind of canines that suffer greatly from separation anxiety. They cannot be left alone for long periods. Schnoodle With two parent breeds that come in an assortment of sizes, the Schnoodle undoubtedly belongs on this list. Still, it can be included among the large Doodles, too, if a Standard Poodle were to be bred with a Giant Schnauzer. In terms of personality, Schnoodles are very terrier-like, which means they tend to be much more active than your average lapdog and so do especially well with outdoorsy families. Yorkipoo The Yorkshire Terrier may well give the Poodle a run for its money in the intelligence stakes making the delightful Yorkipoo a very smart dog indeed — which is great for training. Shihpoo Set your Shihpoo up on a velvet cushion, and they will adore you for life. On a serious note, though, these dogs are consummate lapdogs. As such, they love to be doted on and spoiled more than anything else in this world. With their larger-than-life personality and a tendency towards stubbornness, you might not get very far with trying to teach these dogs new tricks or making them into athletic companions. Still, their playful, funny nature will certainly earn them a firm place in your heart nevertheless. Chi-Poo Right at the smallest end of the Doodle spectrum, the Chi-Poo has all the character of the daring Chihuahua but, much to the relief of fans of the breed, far fewer of their associated health issues that come when toy breeds are made just way too toy. Chi-poos are also quite a bit more independent than most other smaller Poodle crosses, which makes them more adaptable to various home situations. They make great first-time pets and work as well in an apartment as they do in a house with a yard. That being said, they can be pretty energetic little so-and-sos, which is something you will need to keep in mind if you do decide to take on one of these lovely pups. Something else you will need to think about is that these dogs also generally require pretty regular grooming sessions. Westiepoo Westiepoos are some of the most social and loving dogs around. They are super fun, super easy to look after, super quick to train, and super to have in your home. The West Highland Terrier — Poodle mix contains the very best of both these excellent pups. They are fun, funny, active, and larger than life in their characters. That Terrier nature of theirs means Westies have a tendency towards both barking and prey-chasing behaviors. Yet, with their superior intelligence, these are things they can be trained out of. Pugapoo Pugs have recently become quite controversial for the issues they have with breathing due to those flat faces of theirs. Happily, though, when combined with the mightily different Poodle, this becomes far less of a problem. Crossing Pugs in this way with longer-nosed hounds is a way of preserving these quirky, cute, and comical dogs. Pugapoos undoubtedly make delightful pups who are loving and loyal as they are gorgeous. With very modest exercise needs, indeed, they are perfect little lapdogs. Doxiedoodle The thing about Daschhunds, one half of the darling Doxiedoodle , is that not only are they the sweetest little sausage-looking pups, but they vary massively in both appearance and temperament. What you will know for sure, though, is that they will be gorgeous, they will be smart, and they will be floofy little bundles of perky hound. Take care, though, as these dogs can grow larger than you might think. Bassetdoodle Otherwise known as Bassetoodles , Bassetdoodles are lesser-known Doodles for sure, but an interesting combination of breeds nonetheless. Like some of the other pups on this list, they are sometimes formed from Standard Poodles, making all-around larger dogs, so make sure that the breeder knows you are looking for a smaller-sized pup. These pooches tend to be calm, friendly, joyful, and yet slightly on the stubborn side too. They also often inherit a bit of a mischievous streak that keeps their owners very much on their toes. Bossi-Poo Boston Terriers are unique-looking dogs with plenty of heart to go alongside their distinctive features and markings. When coupled with the posh Poodle, you get the amusingly-named Bossi-Poo. Cavapoo Spaniels have long been dotted on dogs, and the Cavalier King Charles is no exception. With their cute faces, beautiful coats, and happy little natures, they make friends wherever they go. When the winning personality of the Spaniel is added to the smart, comedic nature of the smaller Poodle, magic truly does happen. Cavapoos really are some of the most popular Doodles around. Jack-a-Poo Another Doodle of many names, the Jack-a-poo , Jackadoodle, or Poo-Jack, is a bright and vivacious mutt who is super loving but requires a mite more care than some of the other Doods on this list. The reason for that is not their coat which tends to be short or slightly fluffy, but, either way, very manageable, but rather the fact they tend to be teeny firecrackers, filled with all the joys of life. While this makes them entertaining sidekicks, it does mean you have to have a fairly energetic nature ayourself to keep up with their antics. Aside from their distinctive features, these dogs are known for their alert, big-dog attitudes, playful personalities, bravery, and extreme love of people. For all these reasons and more, their offspring Papipoos make a unique and excellent pet choice. Poogle Admittedly not the most glamorous name in the world! A Boodle? A Beapoo? Friendly, curious, and hopelessly devoted to their families, Poogles make excellent pets for just about anyone. They get along with everyone, from kids to other pets. However, they do need plenty of socialization to counter that sometimes fairly high prey drive of theirs. With two intelligent parents, and given that these dogs are dedicated people pleasers, Corgipoos do well in the training stakes. The Corgi actually has a fascinating history. Said to be the companions of fairies, legend has it that they were first gifted, during the Viking era, to those who needed protection in their homes. So, as you can imagine, Corgipoos are great guard dogs in addition to being excellent companions. As one of the most popular and well-known of the Doodles, these tend to be the ones that many opt for. Plus, progressive generations of Goldendoodles have enabled them to be bred in more apartment-friendly sizes as small Poodle mixes. Photo used with permission. These dogs really have it all — a sociable nature, even temperament, high trainability, and gorgeous good looks. On the downside, these dogs blow coat and how! Beyond that, their large size means they need a bigger space to hang out in and more intensive exercise than smaller breeds. Enter the Mini or Toy Labradoodle… With their smaller size and tendency toward inheriting the Poodle coat, they are even more perfect than perfect. In that case, the Bernedoodle may well have caught your attention. While the Standard versions of these pups can be pretty giant, given that the Bernese Mountain Dog is classified as a large breed, smaller versions of the Bernie come from combining them with little Poodles. These have all the best of their qualities, often including their stunning tricolored coats, but in a much more manageable package size-wise. All small Poodle mixes make great dogs for the right owners, so the question should be not what is the best one but rather what is the best one for me. The dogs on this list differ significantly in terms of their appearance, temperament, energy levels, and care needs, among other things. What is the calmest small Poodle mix? While every dog is as totally unique in its specific traits as every person is, and so it can be tricky to judge how rambunctious they will be, Doods that combine the more giant breeds with Poodles tend to be among the calmest dogs. Pups bred to be companion animals also tend to be on the lower end of the energy spectrum compared to those originally used as work dogs, such as Terriers and Spaniels. What is the smallest Poodle mix? The smallest Poodle dogs are going to be a combination of two of the most miniature parents. While that will vary depending on individual animals, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers tend to be high up on any smallest dog lists. So if you are looking for a totally teeny pup, then a Chi-Poo or Yorkipoo might be for you. Which Poodle mix is healthiest? Luckily, for Doodle fans everywhere, due to their more diverse mix of genes creating something known as hybrid vigor , small Poodle mixes tend to be far healthier than most pedigree pups. However, differences in health will come down to how the dogs were bred. Responsible Breeders health screen their animals to ensure that the possibility of genetic conditions being passed down to their offspring is much reduced. Miniature Doods are the ideal option for those looking for a more manageably-sized dog with all the spunk and personality of their often larger parent pups. Hopefully, the information included here has helped you narrow down your choices a little in your quest to find your new best friend. You Might Also Like. Meet The Poodle! Poodles come in three size varieties, but this specific Poodle is a Toy. First, you have the Standard sized Poodle , who stands over 15 inches tall. Next you have th e Miniature Poodle , who is under 15 inches, and then the tiny Toy, who is generally no more than 10 inches in height. One of the great things about Poodles in general is that they are intelligent, athletic, family friendly, hypoallergenic, and they have longer lifespans than many of their other canine counterparts. This is especially true for the Miniature and Toy Poodles , who have been estimated to live up to 18 years. Small Poodle mixes are also great for families who suffer from allergies. But while we do love our small Poodle mixes, there is still some controversy surrounding the idea of crossbreed dogs. In this picture you see a crossbreed Poodle mix dog on the left with a purebred Labradoodle on the right. Any small poodle mixes you come across are going to be what is considered a crossbreed, designer dog, hybrid or mixed breed. Essentially, these are dogs that are the offspring of two specifically chosen purebred parent breeds. Crossbreeding is an age-old practice, but it was originally used to breed working dogs with specific traits, appearances or temperaments. In fact, crossbreeding is how we have developed most of the purebred dogs we know and love today. Unfortunately, it takes generations of breeding and perfecting before one can label a dog as a purebred dog, and this is where the controversy of breeding and selling early generation crossbreeds comes into play. This is especially true when it comes to aspects of health, temperament and physical appearance. For example, while you may be on the hunt for a small poodle mix that is hypoallergenic, there is a chance that an early generation mixed breed could still shed and produce dandar just as heavily as his shedding purebred parent breed. On the flip side of this, it is possible to look for breeders who specifically breed certain small poodle mixes for the purpose of ensuring their coat, temperament and health are more predictable than others. You also have the option of going through a rescue or adopting a dog that is over a year old and who already has many of his traits established. But enough about the logistics of small poodle mixes. Get ready to fall in love with 15 small Poodle mixes we are legitimately obsessed with! The Maltipoo is a mix between the sweet and adoring Maltese and the intelligent Miniature or toy Poodle. Maltipoo dogs are excellent choices for allergy sufferers, as both their purebred parent breeds are hypoallergenic. This means that this little dog will also be hypoallergenic as well. When it comes to family, the Maltipoo is a fabulous addition. He is gentle and sweet, and does well with older, more respectful children. Maltipoo dogs are bred companion dogs that do best in homes with owners who are around often. They make wonderful apartment companions and are excellent therapy dogs, thriving with seniors, singles and retirees. The Yorkiepoo The Yorkshire Terrier x Poodle Yorkiepoo dogs can be quite small and may not be the best dogs for home switch small children. A cross between the sweet and spirited Yorkshire Terrier and the athletic Poodle, the Yorkie Poo is a beloved and popular Poodle mix hitting the scene. He can be quite small, with some Yorkie Poo dogs weighing no more than six pounds. For this reason, we would recommend Yorkie Poo dogs for homes with singles, seniors, retirees or couples. They can also do well in homes with older children so long as those kiddos are gentle and respectful. Otherwise, Yorkiepoos are sweet and affectionate. They love their families but have just enough spunk to keep everyone on their toes. A cross between the clever and independent Chihuahua and the Poodle, a Chipoo is a mix unlike any other. He is clever, somewhat bossy, and very funny. Many Chipoo dogs have been described as almost human-like in their temperaments, and they will let you know what they want and when they want it. Chihuahuas in particular tend to do best in single-dog households and in homes without children. That said, a Chipoo may be more agreeable with gentle youngsters and other dogs so long as he is properly raised, trained and socialized. Enter the miniature Labradoodle. Just like his standard sized counterparts, later generation miniature Labradoodles are intelligent, family-oriented, playful, eager to please and great with children. These dogs just come in a more compact size that makes them easier to travel with! When all of their needs are met, miniature labradoodles can do great in apartments and smaller settings, and if you go through the right source, you should be able to find one of these hybrids with a hypoallergenic coat. A combination of two very intelligent dogs, the Schnoodle is ideal for active and committed families. They like to be outside and may not realize just how small they are. That said, they are eager to please and quick to learn, and are very family oriented. When raised and trained properly, schnoodle dogs do well with children of all ages and will enjoy having other dogs in the home to play with. Height: 8 to 15 Inches Weight: 8 to 18 Pounds Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Playful, Attentive Lifespan: 12 to 15 Years Overview: When it comes to small poodle mixes that do best with older families, singles, seniors or retirees, we like the Shih-Poo. A cross between the Shih Tzu and the Poodle, Shih Poos are a sure thing when it comes to small poodle mixes that are hypoallergenic. However, they may not be the ideal additions for homes with smaller children, as they are less playful than some of the other small poodle mixes on this list. Instead, they prefer to be with a calm and gentle owner and are the quintessential lap dog. Like all miniature poodle mixes on this list, the Shih-Poo will need routine daily exercise, training and socialization to ensure he grows up happy and healthy. This darling little dog is one that makes an excellent therapy dog. He is sweet natured, adoring and friendly to boot. He is generally between six and 20 pounds, so a larger Peekapoo can do well in homes with gentle children. Peekapoo dogs are also trainable and eager to please, and they are one of the relatively calmer small poodle mixes on this list. However, their flattened faces can lead to a greater risk of brachycephalic airway syndrome, which can cause heat intolerance and breathing issues, so keep this in mind. This is the ultimate teddy-bear dog and is beloved by families, singles, seniors and retirees alike. Like many small poodle mixes on this list, the Pomapoo makes an excellent therapy dog. He is adoring, sweet and affectionate, and becomes very bonded with his family. When left alone for too long, Pomapoos can be prone to suffering from separation anxiety and depression. This adorable little dog is the quintessential companion. A mix of brains, beauty and comedy, the Cavapoo is one of our small poodle mixes that is best suited for dog owners who can be home often and who are looking for a constant companion. Cavapoos are famous for their affectionate nature. They are eager to please and quick to learn, and will enjoy having an owner who showers them with attention and affection. However, Cavapoos may not be hypoallergenic depending on their breeding or generation. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic Cavpoo, it would be best to go through breeders who specify in these types of dogs, as we have mentioned. Height: 9 to 18 Inches Weight: 12 to 24 Pounds Temperament: Intelligent, Friendly, active, outgoing, Affectionate Lifespan: 13 to 15 Years Overview: All small Poodle mixes are generally sweet, but the Cockapoo is one of our more adoring hybrids on this list. The Cocker Spaniel is known for his affectionate temperament and his special affinity for children. Gentle and calm, Cockapoos are excellent dogs for first time dog owners and they are great with families of all ages. The Poochon The Bichon x Poodle Poochon dogs have dense, curly coats and make friendly and trainable companions. This is also a sure thing for those who suffer from allergies. Both the Bichon Frise and the Poodle are hypoallergenic, and they even have similar coats. This is a small Poodle mix that is not only highly intelligent, but also very playful, fun-loving and friendly. He knows no strangers and makes an agreeable and adaptable companion to a number of different lifestyles. The Poochon does great in apartments so long as his needs are met and he can get along well with children and other pets when properly raised and socialized. However, his curly coat could be prone to mats and tangles, so special attention should be given to a Poochon when it comes to grooming. When it comes to small poodle mixes, the Jack-A-Poo sounds like some kind of fantastical creature! These dogs are athletic, energetic and highly intelligent. As such, a Jack-A-Poo dog is going to do best in homes with active, committed owners who can dedicate enough time to training and exercise. If his needs are not met, your Jack-A-Poo could be prone to destructive behaviors as well as depression, stress and anxiety. The Doxiepoo The Dachshund x Poodle The Doxiepoo could look more like his Poodle parent or more like his Dachshund parent, or he could look somewhere in between. Like Poodles, Dachshunds come in different size varieties, so you can choose between a small poodle mix or an even smaller poodle mix when it comes to this hybrid! Doxiepoos are adoring, affectionate and intelligent dogs with big personalities. Dachshunds in particular are bred badger dogs, and Poodles also have some hunting background. This means that your Doxiepoo could be unaware of his size and have a high prey drive. Walk your Doxiepoo on a leash and harness when outside of securely fenced in areas and be sure to work with this little dog on proper manners using positive reinforcement training techniques. A mix between the adoring Wheaten Terrier and the Miniature Poodle, the Whoodle is a family favorite. He is just compact enough to be considered a small dog, but large enough to do well in homes with youngsters. Whoodles are highly trainable, intelligent and affectionate. They adore their families and do well in homes where their owner is available to them consistently. Like all dogs, Whoodles are small poodle mixes that require plenty of training and exercise at an early age. They should also be kept mentally stimulated during the day to help reduce destructive behaviors like chewing, marking and barking. Keep in mind that the Whoodle does have some terrier in his DNA, and that terrier temperament is certainly spunky and fun. However, terriers can also be more challenging. Are you up for it? The Bassetoodle The Basset Hound x Poodle Bassetoodle dogs can be quite small or they can be larger than you may expect. This is quite the unique canine and probably not the first dog that came to mind when you considered looking into small Poodle mixes. His coat may or may not be hypoallergenic depending on his generation, but his temperament is sure to be quite fun! Basset Hounds are intelligent, albeit somewhat stubborn. They like to follow their noses and have a keen sense of smell. The Poodle, on the other hand, is very trainable and eager to please. You could get either temperament when it comes to this dog, or a good mix. Deciding which Poodle mix is right for you can be tough. All these dogs are so great! Before you decide, there are a few things we recommend you consider. Remember, small Poodle mixes are generally small, and they may not be the ideal dogs for homes with very young children. Some of these small Poodle mix dogs could be more prone to injury if played with too roughly or if accidently dropped. However, there are some more sturdy small poodle mixes on our above list that can do excellent with youngsters. These small Poodle mixes would include dogs like the MIniature Labradoodle , for example. If you do suffer from allergies, we recommend looking for dogs that are over a year old and already have their coats established. Or, you can go through a breeder who breeds older generation small poodle mixes to ensure they are hypoallergenic for those with sensitivities. Last, be sure to keep in mind that small Poodle mixes are intelligent, affectionate and family oriented dogs. They do best in homes with committed owners who are able to work with them, train them, and shower them with attention and love. We are in love with each dog on the list, and we want to help you find the healthiest puppy or rescue possible. If you choose to go through a breeder to get one of the above small poodle mixes, look for breeders who understand the importance of responsible breeding practices. This could lead to an uptick in health and behavioral issues down the road if you are not careful. Instead of going through backyard breeders, online sellers or those who are unqualified or uncertified, we recommend sticking with breeders with a history of breeding small poodle mixes and breeders who can provide you with paperwork. A reputable breeder should be able to provide you with certificates proving their puppies have been screened and cleared of any serious health issues, and you should also be able to ask for references. Because small poodle mixes are so popular, they are also somewhat costly. If you want to save some money and do some good we highly recommend you consider rescuing a small Poodle mix. Rescuing a small Poodle mix comes with plenty of advantages outside of price. For example, if you rescue an adult small poodle mix, you will have a better idea of whether or not he will be hypoallergenic. Some rescues also provide dogs that have already been health screened, are spayed or neutered, and sometimes even microchipped! Whichever route you choose to take when it comes to obtaining your small Poodle mix, the important thing is you know you are already on the right track by reading this article and getting all your ducks in a row! So, are you committed to raising one of the small Poodle mixes on our list? Tell us which of the above dogs stole your heart in the comment section below! Jen Jones Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. Toy poodles stand 10 inches or under and were often used in performances and circuses. Here are 8 of the most popular toy poodle mixes. The Cocker Spaniel is known for its warm demeanor. Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence. Though the temperament and traits of mixing two breeds are based on genetics, cocapoos are often smart, caring companions. Cockapoos generally weigh under 10 pounds and stand up to 10 inches tall. Both types of dog were bred for companionship. Maltipoos typically have wavy, woolly coats that need to be brushed often. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 4-to pounds and be 7 to inches in height. The Pekingese has been a popular lap dog for over years! When fully grown, Peekapoos usually weigh less than 15 pounds and stand 9 inches high or less These dogs can be black, brown, apricot, red, sliver, and white. Pomeranians descended from sled dogs, and when they were larger 30 pounds , they served as sheep herders. Their size was reduced through breeding in the 19th century. Pomapoos usually weigh 5 to 15 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall. Originally, the miniature Schnauzer was used to keep rats and vermin away from farms. These dogs can come in a mix of colors: white, black, gray, cream, brown, red, sliver, or a mix of two colors. When mixed with a toy schnauzer, the schnoodle will most likely be under 10 inches tall and weigh only 12 to 20 pounds. The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, was bred in Yorkshire, England and was used to control rats in cotton mills and coal mines. When fully grown, Yorkipoos can be 6 to 14 inches tall and weigh 4 to 14 pounds. Chihuahuas can be nervious, but are extremely devoted to their owners. Some believe the chihuahua originated from the Fennec Fox, a small creature with big ears. Chipoos will be small in size, which means they require little exercise and are good for owners that have small places—like a city apartment. They may have originated in Germany, but in France they were adored. Poodles are a highly intelligent breed in general. Toy Poodles, in particular, had an aptitude for learning tricks due to that intelligence. They wowed circus audiences across Europe with their stage performances and adorable charm. Toy Poodles are, first and foremost, performing pups. They love being the center of attention, but too much pampering can go to their heads. And with their intelligence, training is a breeze! They will often join in family activities and try to be a part of the action as much as possible. In fact, if left alone too long to their own devices these dogs may become destructive. This breed is highly adaptable. They tend to require mental stimulation and affection, so leaving brain teasers at home will work for some time. However, if the Toy Poodle Mix finds themselves alone and becomes bored, they may attack your shoes. The Toy Poodle Mix has moderately good health. However, they experience similar health concerns as other toy breeds with some additional Poodle-specific illnesses. For example, Toy Poodle Mixes may suffer from the following: hypothyroidism, teeth crowding, trachea collapse, kneecap migration, blood clotting disorders, skin inflammation, and hip dysplasia. As long as this pup regularly attends vet visits, exercises moderately, and maintains a healthy weight, they should enjoy a long, healthy life. Keep an eye out for certain things, like limping and weight loss, to be extra careful. Toy Poodles are companions through and through. So, a Toy Poodle Mix is likely to gleefully accompany owners on runs, errands, and even cuddles. In fact, these dogs love to sit on laps and are overjoyed at all the attention. These clever pups also pick up on commands very quickly and are eager to please. They make impressive little acrobats as long as a stern, consistent trainer is by their side. Their coats are curly and dense — requiring frequent grooming to prevent matting. Because of their crowding teeth, your Toy Poodle Mix may need a little extra brushing to keep their teeth healthy and strong. They can be just as active, but will tire out after a few laps around the living room. A Toy Poodle Mix is a good companion for people who tend to prefer lapdogs as opposed to running partners. A Toy Poodle Mix will only weigh about 7 pounds, on average, and stand under 10 inches tall. This dog breed lives between 12 and 15 years on average. Featured Toy Poodle Mix Article. No dog is truly hypoallergenic, because all dogs produce dander that carries allergens. However, Poodles with their tight curls are very low shedding dogs. This means as long as they are kept in a good coat condition and your house is kept clean, the risks of allergic reaction is low. However, small Poodle mixes like the Cockapoo can cause allergic reactions to some pet parents. This is because their coat is not always the same texture. So, every owner can find one that truly suits their home and family life. This mini Poodle mix is highly active, but also very patient, making a great family pet. But, like many small Poodle mixes, Bichon Poodles can be quite the little barkers. Barking will often be made worse when they are left alone for long periods of time, since this mix is prone to separation anxiety. They do best in a home where they are never left alone for long periods of time. Depending on whether the Poodle parent is Toy or Miniature, Bich Poos may weigh anywhere from 6 pounds to 12 pounds. The Bichpoo typically has a medium-length, curly coat which is white or apricot in color and which sheds minimally. Daily brushing and monthly coat trims are a grooming requirement. Generally, this hybrid is known to be gentle, friendly, and loyal to their family members. But, like any dog, it must be socialized well as a puppy for the best personality! This combination can be great with children, as long as playtime stays gentle and calm. In terms of looks, this mix can be quite varied, since the parent breeds are so different to one another. Although they will usually stand between 12 and 14 inches tall, weight can range from 15 to 40 pounds as an adult! There are a couple of behavioral quirks with this hybrid, as there are with many small Poodle mixes. Cavapoo may exhibit guarding tendencies. But, proper socialization can alleviate this behavior. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a high prey drive. This cross may reach 10 to 18 pounds at maturity. They are sturdy dogs which thrive in a moderately active environment. But they also enjoy lounging in your lap. Or some combination of both. Their coat may be solid or multi-colored, and it may require weekly or daily brushing as well as regular trims. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels do shed seasonally. So Cavapoo shedding will depend entirely on the coat that your puppy inherits. Despite its tiny size, this mix has plenty of energy. It will need daily interaction and lots of mental stimulation! These little dogs will be loyal, devoted, and affectionate, but socialize them well to avoid any fear-based reactivity. As an adult, the Toy Poodle Chihuahua mix will be anywhere between 3 and 20 pounds, standing from 5 to 15 inches tall. A Chipoo with a Miniature Poodle parent will often be a little larger. Their appearance will vary depending on the traits they inherit from each parent, but also on the type of Chihuahua used. Deer head Chihuahuas and apple head Chihuahuas have different skull shapes, leading to very different looking little dogs! Some may also call this mix a Miniature Cockapoo , to distinguish it from the standard size mix. Cockapoos are typically pleasant, intelligent little fellows. They rarely inherit an unfavorable disposition. But, socialization is still important to encourage this wonderful temperament. When the cross involves a Miniature or Toy Poodle, you get a curly-coated ball of pure cute, which may weigh anywhere from 6 pounds to about 18 pounds. But the Cocker Spaniel is a heavy shedder. So depending on which coat type they inherit, this cross may shed pretty profusely, seasonally, or hardly at all. Exactly what type of dog you get will depend on the specific parents used, but generally this small Poodle mix is active, intelligent, and affectionate. They may also have a strong drive to herd — particularly other pets or young children. So, this small Poodle mix is often better in homes with older children. Some Corgipoos will have short legs, but others may inherit the longer legs of the Poodle parent. Their coat will be likely to differ in the same way. Generally, this mix will have quite a fox-like appearance. Particularly if they inherit a red coat. Doxiepoo The Doxipo o is one of the more popular small Poodle mixes. It combines a Mini or Toy Poodle with the short Dachshund! In most cases, this mix will be independent, intelligent, loyal, and very stubborn! It will likely become very close to its family, but this can lead to guarding aggression. If you bring home this mix, socialization and training are vital from a young age. Looks, again, will depend on the genes that a puppy inherits from either parent. But this mix tends to be on the short side. They will likely have floppy ears, and a long pointed snout. Their coat will vary, particularly depending on the type of Doxie that you use. They can also come in long-haired and wire-haired varieties! Havapoo The Havapoo mixes a small Poodle breed with the lovable Havanese! This little mix is affectionate, friendly, and very people-oriented. They will be clever, and will often pick up commands quickly with positive reinforcement training. As long as they are socialized well, they will get along with other pets, animals, and children in and out of the home. In terms of size, the Havapoo often falls between 8 and 15 inches tall, weighing anywhere from 12 to 45 pounds. Of course, those with a Toy Poodle parent will often be at the smaller end of this scale. Havapoo pups tend to have floppy ears, long fur with a slight wave or curl, and relatively short legs. These are agreeable dogs which make perfect companions. But this makes them less than happy about alone time, and may bark their displeasure at this! They will do well in homes with constant company, but may not suit homes with very young children that could accidentally hurt them during play. Depending on whether the Poodle parent is Toy or Miniature, Maltipoos may weigh anywhere from 5 pounds to 15 pounds. But, regardless of their coat type they will need weekly brushing and monthly trips to the groomers to keep their coat from matting. They will be smaller than the standard Goldendoodle mix, but will have a similar, lovable temperament. This means, they will be friendly, social, and very active, despite their small size. The best homes will have lots of time to dedicate to training, exercise, and play every day. When left alone, mini Goldendoodles can become stressed and destructive. Typically, Miniature Goldendoodles reach between 14 and 17 inches tall, weighing from 26 to 35 pounds. Golden shades are the most popular, but thanks to the influence of the Poodle, this mix can come in a variety of different colors and patterns. The amount of curl in their coat can also vary. Which means their shedding levels and grooming needs will vary from one dog to the next. These small Poodle mixes are the cousins of the vastly popular Labradoodle, a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador. Labradors are usually happy to greet strangers. But Miniature Poodles can be shy. So, the exact personality of this cross can vary depending on the genes it inherits. And, on how well you socialize it as a puppy. Not all Miniature Labradoodles stay small. The cross could be as small as a Miniature Poodle, as large as a full-sized Labrador, or somewhere in between. A curled coat will require regular trips to the groomer for trims to prevent matting. Owners must be prepared for any possible outcome with this mix! Usually, a Peekapoo dog is active, outgoing, and agreeable. When socialized well, they will be friendly and sociable, even with strangers. On average, they tend to stand at around 11 inches tall. Those with Toy Poodle parents will be smaller than those with Miniature Poodle parents. Weight will fall under 20 pounds as an adult. But, coat color and type will vary. Generally no Peekapoos will shed excessively, but they will need regular grooming. Since there are so many Pitbull breeds out there, the results of this mix will really depend on the individual parents used. Although, owners of this mix can expect a strong, and often muscular dog that forms very strong bonds with its family. Socialization is vital, particularly to avoid any aggression towards other dogs which could stem from the dog-fighting past of the Pitbull parent. However, many owners report that this mix is gentle, friendly, and loving, especially towards close family and children. Since both Pomeranians and Toy Poodles are very loyal to their families and tend to bond closely with one person. They may exhibit guarding tendencies. Proper socialization can help with this behavior. Pomapoos may also get grumpy or nippy when they are tired of being petted or messed with. This makes this mix an unlikely candidate for a family with small children who may not know when enough is enough. This tiny hybrid weighs just 3 to 9 pounds when fully grown. Which means they do not need a lot of exercise. About an hour of play time, short walks, or a combination of both each day will suffice! A Pomapoo will need daily brushing with a slicker brush or pin brush, respectively, as well as monthly trips to the groomer. Additionally, Pomeranians shed seasonally, so a Pomapoo may also shed seasonally. If their coat more closely resembles that of a Poodle, though, then they may shed minimally. Pugapoo The Pugapoo is also often called a Pugadoodle. This mix combines a Pug with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. Both parent breeds were originally bred to be lap dogs. And this shows in the personality of this mix! It will be happy to spend all of its time with you, particularly chilling out on the couch. However, owners also report that this mix is playful, cheeky, and affectionate. Appearance will vary from one dog to the next, but generally a Pugapoo will be small. They can grow from 10 to 12 inches tall, weighing anywhere from 14 to 18 pounds. This is a popular look, since many owners love the cute baby-like face. But, it brings with it a number of painful and lifelong health complications. This includes difficulty breathing and eating, vulnerable and exposed eyes, overcrowded teeth and increased dental issues, heatstroke, and more. Or, since this mix can live into its teens, you could consider rescuing an older version of this mix. Scoodle The Scoodle is one of the lesser known small Poodle mixes. Some owners will also call this mix a Scottie Poo. These little dogs will be active, playful, and confident. Scoodles need plenty of interaction, fun, and exercise! Scottish Terriers are similar in size to the Miniature Poodle. So, this mix will usually reach a maximum of 22 pounds and 15 inches. However, many are much smaller than this, particularly if they have a Toy Poodle parent. Both parent breeds are also low shedding. So you can expect the same of a Scottie Poo, although they will need plenty of grooming. Generally, this mix has a lot of energy and intelligence. They will enjoy training, and will need plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs and their brains. Appearance will vary a lot, but in general this mix will have a lot of hair! The amount of curl can differ, but grooming is a must for a Miniature Sheltipoo. On top of this, color can depend on the parents used. Size will again change depending on the genes your pup inherits. Some may be tiny, like the Miniature Poodle parent. But, others can be as large as the Sheltie. Owners must be prepared for any outcome. This hybrid is usually a cuddler, and needs just a little bit of running amok each day to satisfy their energy requirements. A Shih Poo may inherit a tendency to get defensive of their owner or family as well as a barking tendency. They may also get tired of being fussed over and get nippy. With these traits in mind, socialization and keeping these dogs in the proper environment are ideal. Shih Poos may weigh anywhere from 4 to 16 pounds. And is easier to maintain at home. These dogs will have plenty of energy, and will be very affectionate towards their family. They will take well to positive reward training, which is also a great way to give them some much needed mental stimulation. However, bear in mind that they may have strong natural instincts, including the desire to chase smaller pets, and potential barking. In terms of looks, this can be a real teddy bear dog! They will often have a slight curl to their coat, but the extent of this will vary from one dog to the next. In terms of color, the Springerdoodle can come in almost any shade! But, choosing two parents with similar coats can help you predict what color you will get in your puppy. Due to their Poodle lineage, some Westiepoos bond very closely with one or more family members. This can make them wary of strangers. Extra early socialization with people and animals will be necessary to prevent yippy or nippy behavior. Due to their Terrier lineage, some Westiepoos can also have a high prey drive. This may disqualify them as candidates for homes with cats or other small pets. Of the small Poodle mixes, this hybrid is on the larger side. It has a full-grown weight of about 20 to 30 pounds. Both Westies and Poodles have long and curly coats. A Westipoo will require daily to weekly brushing and monthly trips to the groomer to keep things clean and trimmed up. This mix will have a strong prey drive, so it may not suit homes with other pets or with very young children. But, other than this, a Whoodle will be playful, affectionate, and full of energy. They can be a great choice for an active home. Size will vary depending on the traits this mix inherits. Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized sturdy dogs. So, if it takes after this parent, your mix can be as tall as 20 inches, weighing up to 50 pounds. Generally, a miniature version will be smaller than this, but owners should prepare for any outcome. Coat and color will also vary. Yorkipoo This is perhaps one of the most popular small Poodle mixes. The Yorkipoo is a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Poodle. They enjoy spending time with their humans and will do whatever it takes to get your attention! However, some Yorkipoos may get a little too attached to their family. We cannot stress proper socialization enough with these types of dogs. This hybrid also needs short bursts of exercise each day, as they are quite energetic. Their coat may be any color which is accepted for Terriers and Poodles. It will also require regular brushing to eliminate matting. Yorkipoos may shed minimally, like a Poodle, or seasonally, like a Yorkshire Terrier. But the good news is that any shedding can be minimized with regular grooming. Small Poodle Mix Puppies When choosing a small Poodle mix puppy you need to make sure that you like both parent breeds equally. That you are a fan of both coat types, colors and personalities. Good breeders of Poodle mixes health test both parents, and only breed from dogs with friendly personalities. They will be happy to show you health certificates and answer any questions you have. No matter how small! Due to their popularity, small Poodle mix puppies are quite expensive and may run you to several thousand dollars. Small-sized Doodles often weigh less than 10 lb. They make excellent lap dogs and are highly suitable for city dwellers or people with small houses. They make great lapdogs and love to play fetch indoors. Pekapoos do not need too much exercise and easily tire with a minute activity. This makes them great for seniors and people with less mobility. Weighing just between lb. You can easily take a Shihpoo to work and if you travel, your Shih Poo will gladly give you company. Shihpoos weigh around 8 and 18 lb. They are so cute to look at that it is hard not to hold one in your lap! They weigh around 5 to 15 lb 2. However, they do need consistent, positive reinforcement based training and puppy socialisation from the start. Pugapoos Pug x Toy Poodle nesty. They also vary in size but are within the lb. They are among some of the calmest poodle mixes available. Pomapoos Pomeranian x Toy Poodle moimoi Pomapoos are obtained by crossing the adorable and feisty Pomeranians and the clever Toy Poodle. They measure between 8 and 12 inches cm and weigh between 5 and 15 lb. These highly adaptable dogs thrive in any environment as long as they get adequate mental and physical stimulation. They mostly fare well in suburban areas but tend to bark a lot. You need to train this sweet small dog to curb its barking. However, they still need plenty of obedience training to prevent bad behaviors. Most ChiPoos weigh between 5 and 20 lb. They are perfect for compact homes and small spaces. Poochons or Bichoodles are devoted, loyal, loving, and smart. They weigh just around lb. Prospective owners of this small Doodle will be wise to invest in early dog training to prevent unwanted behaviours. Cavoodles and Bichoodles are similar small poodle mixes but there is one important difference between the breeds. Bichoodles are a good option for allergy sufferers. These small dogs weigh just around 10 lb. The Havapoo is gentle, relatively docile, loving, affectionate, and easy to train. With proper socialisation, they get along with kids and other pets. Havapoos make excellent therapy dogs. They are well-suited for apartments and city dwellers. They weigh around 15 pounds 6 to 7 kg and measure about inches 22 to 33 cm. Their temperament also means that they can be stubborn, keeping training a positive experience is important. Worry not, Lhasapoos are smart dogs and learn quickly. With patience and consistency, you will see great results! Small Poodle Mixes — Summary Small poodle mixes are available in array of coat types, temperaments and conformations. Some of the calmer poodle mixes are the Pugapoo, Shipoo, Peekapoo and Lhasapoo. While the Bichoodle, Yorkipoo, Havapoo and Moodle are generally non-shedding and popular among allergy sufferers. We hope our guide to 10 Small Poodle Mixes helps you find the right Doodle companion for you to love! Subscribe for information on the Best Poodle Mix Breeds in Australia, access to our ethical breeder community and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this. March 15, Table of Contents Maltipoos — Adorable designer pups Maltipoos are dogs that result from crossing a Miniature or Toy Poodle with a Maltese. The Maltipoo has yet to be recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club and other organizations across the world. Most dogs have a fluffy and wool-like coat, though, which is one of the features they are most appreciated for. How big does a Maltipoo get? This is a relatively small breed. Adults get to a height that ranges from 10 to 12 inches, depending on their gender and genetic inheritance. Most have a weight between 10 and 20 pounds, also depending on their gender, whether they were spayed or neutered, and if their parents were smaller or larger. If you are looking for an especially small Maltipoo, you should pick a female and also ask your breeder for a cross of two smaller parents. If you are looking for a larger dog however, make sure to pick a male puppies from parents that are on the larger side. Genetics are strong when it comes to size! Temperament The best thing about a Maltipoo is that it usually inherits the personality of its parents. However, like any other breed, whether mixed or not, this one needs to be socialized as early as possible. Another Maltipoo personality trait that dog owners love is that they can be quite affectionate. They do tend to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for many hours during the day, so if you tend to be away from home for more than 10 hours on a daily basis, this might not be the right dog for you. Are Maltipoos easy to potty train? Most Maltipoos are very easy to train, especially if some of the training was done by the breeder. Praise and repetitive routines offer the best results when it comes to potty training a Maltipoo. For more information on house training your Maltipoo, talk to an experienced trainer. Is a Maltipoo a good dog? Most dog parents seem to agree that Maltipoos make not good, but great dogs. On top of everything, a Maltipoo maintains their puppy temperament even in their senior years, which can be very refreshing. Are Maltipoos barkers? Some Maltipoos can cause problems if they are adopted from inexperienced or irresponsible breeders. All puppies have to be trained to some extent in order to maintain good behavior, especially in relation to other animals and people. As we previously mentioned, they do not do well when they spend a lot of time alone. Unfortunately, that can be a problem for most pet owners unless they live in a house and have a yard where the dog can have some fun while they are away. On the other hand, they cannot be considered a hypoallergenic dog breed. They do shed several times a year, and their coat should be groomed every months depending on whether it is curly or not. Some Maltipoos have fluffy or curly hair around their eyes, so the latter can sometimes get irritated. If you ever try to cut some of the fur around the eyes, make sure to cover them with your hand first. Others prefer a lamb cut or a fancier style such as the Miami cut. Do Maltipoos have health problems? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes.

boxer puppy michigan - You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. We are conveniently located close to Washington D. Our goal is to provide you with the best puppy ever. We plan carefully to produce smart, healthy, and beautiful family pets. We cherish each one of our puppies and work to find them the perfect family match. Come out to the farm and find your new best friend! Come out to our farm and find your new best friend! With Golden Retrievers friendly temperament and striking golden color, this breed is both beautiful to look at and a joy to own. While Goldens can adapt to virtually any living situation, they need considerable daily exercise to maintain physical and mental fitness. Your Golden wants nothing more from life than to please you. We have a new litter of Bernedoodles here in White Post Virginia and they are just spectacular. They are ready soon. So far they look to be nice loose curl pattern. We want it to be pretty inside as well as outside. We take great pride in a customer referring us to their friends and or family members. We want to provide you an exceptional dog that grows old with you and your family so frequent health screening of our stock is an absolute priority. We are adamant about making a difference in the breeding world. Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Washington DC? We have answers. Give me a an overview of Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Washington DC. Washington DC Bernedoodle breeders aim to combine the best traits of both breeds to create a special dog that gets along with everyone and is always up for an adventure. How does Uptown Puppies screen breeders? Our strict regulations and vetting processes ensure that every Bernedoodle breeder we accept is an ethical business so that you, the customer can avoid fakes and frauds. Instead of performing a broad Google search for Washington DC Bernedoodle puppies for sale and exposing yourself to backyard breeders and puppy mills, give the Uptown Puppies process a try. Why is Uptown Puppies different from connecting with a breeder through Google? Unlike your average online search engine, we independently evaluate breeders and only list the very best of the best, period. How much do breeders charge for Bernedoodles? The price of Bernedoodle puppies in Washington DC will always differ from breeder to breeder depending on factors such as experience, pedigree, coat color and even in some cases location. What is a puppy mill? A puppy mill is easy to think of as a factory that mass produces dogs without much of a care for their well being or long term health. Are there any breeders near me? What should I expect from a Bernedoodle puppy? As puppies, Bernedoodles are adorably cute and fun loving with fluffy, non-shedding coats. These dogs love to be around people, even as puppies and will grow into some of the best companions that you could ever dream of. These dogs really thrive when they are able to be a part of a pack, families included! What if looking for a specific kind of Bernedoodle puppy? Spending too much time sitting at your desk, searching for Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Washington DC? You may have finally found the right website! The Uptown Puppies network is made up of experienced, responsible breeders who know how to ethically treat puppies in order to properly prepare them for their forever home. How does the Uptown Puppies process work? All you have to do is browse through a few available litters to find the individual puppy that you are interested in. Then, our team connects you with the breeder where you are welcome to ask questions and even express your interest in the Bernedoodle.


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boxer puppy michigan - We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Remember, healthy pups that get the right levels of nutrition, are happy pups! Although some people choose to free feed their dogs everyone can make their own decisions, but you knew that right? Consistent meal times help creates consistent potty times! Not only is this a positive routine for your pup, but it will help make potty and crate training SO much easier for you and your pup. Sometimes when a pup gets sick or contracts some type of disease, their appetite will change. If they are free feeding, it can be difficult to monitor and notice these changes. Meal manners are important for multi-dog homes or if you ever wanna have other pups visit. Whether you have a multi-dog home or not, your dog learning not to be protective of their food is a vital skill for them to possess. Helps to keep away ants, mice, or other unwanted pests. When dog food like human food is left out for an extended period of time, it can attract unwanted pests and insects. No one wants that, period. Mealtime can double as training time! When giving your dog a meal it can be a great time to practice a sit, leave it, and a whole host of other behaviors. Although free feeding your pup may not be the end of the world, the benefits above are extremely valuable and will help your dog in so many ways throughout their life. Similar to the sections above, how often you feed your pup will depend on their age. For example, if you won't be around long enough to make sure your pup doesn't have an accident, then you shouldn't feed your puppy at that time. Feeding schedules can and should be adjusted to fit your household's schedules. A consistent feeding frequency will lead to more consistent potty breaks, which is VITAL for puppy potty training! Here are 11 tips and tricks that will make feeding time more enjoyable and successful for you and your pup! Those unwanted consequences can include unwanted pests, difficulty in monitoring change in appetite, and more. Decide on a puppy feeding schedule and stick to it. If your dog doesn't eat their food quickly, consider adding a to your dog's mealtime for improved nutrition and taste. Another issue you run into is that your pup will be much more likely to beg while you eat your meals. Related Reading: 4. So be sure to not overdo it with treats, and find one that's a healthy, low-calorie treat. Even if you weigh once or twice a month, this will help you stay alert to changes in their health and weight. Our play time slows down slightly during Utah winters, so we typically feed a touch less to compensate for the lack of burned calories. Just keep an eye on your pup to know if this is necessary or not. This will help ensure that your little buddy is getting just the right amount of food. A consistent potty schedule is good for everyone, especially your floors! Just like with a puppy feeding schedule, having a consistent feeding spot will help your pup associate that time and location in a positive way. When starting to crate train, many people will feed their pup inside the crate and then continue that habit even once the dog is fully crate and potty trained. No need to dissect it or anything like that, just keep an eye on it. Additional Reading: We break down a comparison of kibble vs dehydrated vs raw dog food here. Snuffle mats are great to redirect problem behaviors and redirect them to foraging. You get to encourage your dog's food drive in a way that works their brain. Simply scatter your dog's food throughout the snuffle mat, then let them go to town. When first introducing one of these mats, make sure to keep a lot of the food visible so they know what the point of the mat is. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. You are planning to adopt a Labrador puppy, or already are a proud pet parent of one, you must be anxious about how best to assure optimum growth and health to your pup. This piece of writing is an attempt to give you some useful information about the kind of food which you can feed and also about how best you can feed it. In earlier times, the breed was mostly utilized and appreciated for being a versatile hunter. It can hunt on land as well as water; besides, this intelligent dog is a possessor of a gentle temperament, which makes it easily fit into the role of a friendly family dog. Types of Dog food Broadly speaking, the food for your pet is available in three forms — Wet, Dry and Raw. Wet food is the commercially manufactured food which offers chunks of meat, with or without gravy, with added vitamins, minerals and other important elements to make it nutritionally complete and balanced. Dry food consists of pellets called kibbles of food, which are easy to store and convenient to serve. The ready-made food bits meant for puppies consist of nutrients in the right proportions to support a healthy growth. Raw diet consists of raw meat, bones, fruits and vegetables. There are benefits and risks involved in administering a raw diet, which one should be aware of before adopting a fully raw diet. You may go for dry, wet or raw diet, or a combination of them. You may also consult your vet to guide in case you are confused about your choices. Labradors are always hungry and that is because of their huge appetites. As a pet owner you need to monitor the amount of food they eat, as their greed for food can easily drive them towards obesity, and consequently towards various diseases. Commercially made food Many companies categorize their foods on the basis of life stage puppy, adult, senior , breed large, medium or small , or may offer pet food specifically targeting a particular breed like Royal Canin Labrador Junior , which seeks to take care of a Labrador dog up to 15 months of age. The formulation of diets like this are based on the assumption that all pure breed dogs have their unique needs, which if addressed would bring the dog to an optimum level of health. Information from the breeders If you have brought the puppy from a breeder, then he would supply you a diet routine which needs to be followed, some food or may be some information regarding feeding. Follow it religiously for some days to give some sort of familiar touch to the puppy that is undergoing the stress of being separated from its mother and siblings. In absence of any information from the breeder, best thing would be to consult a vet. Milk for the puppy? Beware of confusing food labels Learn how to read a food label. The food label is given in decreasing order, making the first ingredient the biggest element in the food. That is why it is very important to know what the first two or three ingredients of the food are. Ideally, the first element of any dog food should be a specific kind of meat like chicken, duck, beef ; meat-by-product, meat or animal should not be mentioned on the package as they present an ambiguous picture. Leftover of slaughter houses can find its way to your dog food, something which cannot be classed in the category of healthy and complete food. So if you care for your dog, be aware and make the right selection. Water Make sure that water is available to the puppies at all times of the day, except for one hour before sleeping time. Divide the daily diet The daily dietary requirement of your Labrador pup should be properly divided into portions of meal to be fed at regular intervals. This would help in managing digestion and for keeping its overall health at a good level. You can begin by feeding four meals a day to your 8 to 12 weeks old puppy, and have a time marked for each. Have a gap of at least 3 hours in between each meal so that the little doggie is able to digest it well. Two meals a day is also something which most dog owners continue to feed even after the dog grows up. Feeding your dog once a day after 12 months of age can work as long as you feed it raw meat. The dry kibbles tend to swell once the dog drinks water, and this may cause bloating and also damage its stomach, hence is strictly not recommended. Teach the dog to eat at meal times Your dog would learn to eat the food when it is offered to it if you take back the bowl after a specific interval of time, say 15 to 20 minutes. Household scraps Avoid giving leftovers from your own meals to your puppy, unless you have enough knowledge and experience in dealing with the nutritional requirements of a growing canine. The nutritional needs of your puppy are different than that of humans; also it may differ from one breed of dog to another. The growing pup needs complete and balanced diet to achieve its potential growth, otherwise lifelong disabilities or problems can find easy entry into its life. As, your heartfelt, but nutritionally lacking edible additions might unbalance the diet of your dog. How much to feed? How much food to feed your dog each day is something no one can precisely tell. But the guidelines on the package of the food you are feeding, along with your observation of how the dog is doing with the quantity fed, would help you decide an adequate quantity. The important thing to remember is that the dog should neither be too fat or too slim. Following some instructions related to diet, regular appointments with vet, observing the puppy and showering it with lots and lots of love would give such environment to the little canine in which it would thrive. About Petsworld Team The blog editor of Pets World is a pet aficionado and fervently follows her pet-obsession. A pet parent to animals big and small for the past two decades. The sum of all experiences gathered is an amalgamation of useful knowledge and research. More like this.