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If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More How do you choose the best Goldendoodle puppy food? What ingredients make up the best dog food for Goldendoodle puppies? What special needs do Goldendoodles have? As a new pup parent, you might already be overwhelmed with all the options available on the market. We decided to find out what is the absolute best puppy food for Goldendoodles. From the most-loved dog food brand by Doodle owners! With this formula, your puppy will get their 5-a-day, for sure. Formulated with a special mineral complex that targets joints and bones. This grain-free dog food is perfect for a Goldendoodle puppy with tummy issues. Pick 5: Fromm Puppy Gold dry dog food. Fortified with probiotics and prebiotics that are great for healthy digestion. Pick 7: Browse All Recommended Food for Puppies What to Look for While Choosing the Best Food for Goldendoodle Puppies Even though there are just too many options to choose from, there are a few simple guidelines that you can follow when choosing the best Goldendoodle puppy food. Always feed your Goldendoodle the food that takes into account their age, size, activity levels, and any medical concerns, as well. For instance, the best dog food for Goldendoodle puppies should be more nutrient dense and provide more energy. As a puppy is still growing and developing, they need food specially formulated to meet those unique needs. Additionally, very active dogs and puppies would most likely benefit from dog food that provides more energy. On the other hand, this dog food would not be the best choice for elderly Doodles. Because older dogs usually exercise less, overfeeding them with very calorie dense food can lead to obesity. The best dog food for Goldendoodle puppies should always include high-quality proteins, carbs, fiber, fats, and added nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Today, there are many protein sources used in commercial dog food. The most common proteins are chicken, fish, beef, and pork. Formulas can also include proteins like venison, turkey, duck, rabbit, bison, and more. A balanced puppy food should also contain high-quality carbohydrates. We prefer whole grains, as they are less processed. Thus, they contain more nutrients and fiber. Furthermore, fiber is essential for proper digestion and stool quality. On the other hand, some Goldendoodle owners feed their pups only grain-free puppy food. Be sure to check out our article about grain-free dog food to learn more about it. And, of course, the best dog food for Goldendoodles should also contain high-quality fats. Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega.Fatty acids are crucial for the absorption of nutrients. But as we mentioned, a Goldendoodle puppy should ideally eat food specially formulated for puppies. If your Goldendoodle puppy will grow into a large dog as an adult, we recommend you look for puppy food specially designed for large breed puppies. These will include nutrients that promote slower growth rate and help prevent joint and bone problems later on in life. Nevertheless, there are still some hereditary health problems which Goldendoodles are at risk for. Luckily, many dog foods are formulated with ingredients that help target certain health problems. Allergies As all Doodles are prone to allergies, your Goldendoodle pup at risk of developing an allergy at some point in their life. The most common allergens are proteins and high-protein grains like wheat. The most common source of protein that triggers allergies is chicken. Related Content. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Feeding your puppy meat meal is by no means an inherently bad thing. The owner pouring dog food in a bowl. Acana Regionals Grassland The main ingredients in Acana Regionals Grassland are deboned lamb, deboned duck, eggs, lamb meal, and goat meal. Most dog foods use one type of protein, which is perfectly fine, but your Goldendoodle can benefit from eating multiple types of protein. In that case, I strongly recommend considering Acana Regionals Grassland. When to stop soaking puppy food? This brand is among my highest recommended dog foods because of its well-roundedness. The Pomeranian puppy stands in front of a bowl. Unfortunately, some foods are difficult to digest, and in some cases, that can lead to digestion-related health issues, which no owner wants for their growing Goldendoodle. Also, even though this is for bigger breed puppies, there are multiple kibble sizes, so you can get the best size for your puppy to eat. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. Some people mention how small the size of the kibble bag is, as the largest bag you can get is .However, depending on how much you feed your Goldendoodle a day, this amount of food can go relatively quickly, so you can spend quite a bit of money on buying new bags frequently. Giving a Jack Russell Terrier a dog food. Due to the sheer number of dog foods you can find, deciding on one is difficult because it might not offer your puppy all the things you desire. 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. It should promote good health and prolong life. When determining what to feed dogs, you should consider their breed, age, size, and activity levels. Since a miniature Goldendoodle is slightly active, it should eat more proteins than grains. We will disclose seventeen of the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles below. Moreover, we will answer frequently asked questions. As a first-time parent to a miniature Goldendoodle, you should read food labels. Check the ingredient list to see if a dog food product can nourish your mini Goldendoodle. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles will provide a protein-rich ingredient as the first thing on the label. If the dog food has grains, they should be the lowest quantity on the label. A miniature Goldendoodle has a higher metabolic rate. Hence, dry dog food for Mini Goldendoodles alone is inadequate. Consider buying food with meat additives. It will keep your puppy more energetic and healthier. You will locate the most appropriate item for a puppy or a senior pet in our list of the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. Also, you will discover the products that most veterinarians prefer and the items that can give you the best value for your money. It contains USDA-approved chicken liver, chicken, and brussels sprouts. Every cup of this fresh food provides up to calories. We picked it as our first choice because the highest ingredient on the list is chicken, a rich protein food. This is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles as it contains forty-nine percent protein, thirty-seven percent fat, seven-point-five percent moisture, and one percent fiber. They also provide omega-3 fatty acids that could promote brain health. We like this dog food because it has no synthetic additives or preservatives. Above all, dog parents can choose from three other proteins: pork, beef, and turkey. The way you select food for your pet is easy. Wait for the company to send you a list of the best recipes for your dog. Lastly, this is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with a subscription plan. Once you choose a subscription, the company will send you dog food consistently. Pros The dog food is hypoallergenic. You can receive a dog-specific recipe. Cons 2. Ollie Fresh Dog Food Here is another choice of fresh dog food for your pet. Ollie produces the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. This product is subscription only. As its top ingredients are protein-based, Ollie Fresh Dog Food is safe to buy. The protein content in this product consists of beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb. You can make fresh or wet food using beef, lamb, chicken, and turkey recipes. As for dry or baked food, Ollie gives you two recipes with beef or chicken. Its food is nutritious since it has antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries and chia seeds. It also has sweet potatoes, which contain a lot of vitamin A and other nutrients. Ollie Fresh Dog Food provides a quiz to help customers pick the correct pet recipes. Pros Can offer recipes for dry and wet food for Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Ollie uses fresh and natural ingredients. Slow-cooking and freezing retain all nutrients. You can serve your dog almost the same type of food you have at home. Cons Only dog owners from the continental U. S can buy this dog. You can only buy it by subscription. This dog food looks like a messy powder. You can make food recipes with deboned beef and salmon. We love this miniature Goldendoodle food for its high convenience and safety. Unlike other dog food products, we have described, this has no chicken recipe. If your Mini Goldendoodle dislikes chicken flavors, this food type fits it best. You can serve it as an only meal or use it as another meal topper. When going out with your pet, you can bring Merrick Backcountry Raw Meal as a snack. Pros Dog food is easy to serve. Your pet can digest it easily. Ideal for dogs that dislike chicken. It has deboned beef. Some customers dislike freeze-dried food. Storage of unused food can be challenging. This dog food is expensive. Cesar Classic Cesar has the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. One of its top-selling products is the Cesar Classic. It is a wet option with many flavors. It provides ninety-one to one hundred and five calories. We highly recommend this loaf to any person with a small budget as it is affordable. You can choose beef, fillet mignon, grilled chicken, or porterhouse steak flavors. All flavors are delicious and soft enough for your miniature dog to chew and digest. If you have a senior dog with teeth problems, you might want to get it this meal. Pros This dog food is soft and easy to chew. A high-quality food product without grains. All ingredients are available in the USA. It is an affordable high-protein diet. Cons 5. It is dry dog food with a high protein content of twenty-five percent. Each cup will give your pet up to calories. Fourteen percent fat is a safe concentration for your dog. Other protein sources are soybean meal, sorghum, and dried beans. We would recommend this diet to owners of adult Mini Goldendoodles. The small puppies might not chew this kibble as it is too big for them. In terms of nutrition, this diet contains omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. These omega nutrients can improve coat and brain health. It is among dog foods with healthy levels of protein. An affordable dog food product. This dog food has energetic whole foods. Cons Small dogs might not handle the kibble size. This food is so oily. This dry dog food has fewer calories. If your adult dog needs to cut some weight or maintain a fit body, the Blue Buffalo food can help it. As you can guess, this adult dog food has the highest protein concentration. As a result, it can help your dog build some lean muscles. Pros Blue Buffalo is a low-fat dog food. Contains no fillers, additives, or by-products of grains, poultry, or dog meal. Ideal for weight loss and maintenance. This food is high in protein. Cons Some dogs disliked this product. It may not fit dogs with sensitive guts. Nutro gives you two flavor choices: brown rice and chicken. The dry kibble provides up to calories per cup. Protein content makes up twenty-eight percent of this dog meal. This product is a balanced diet for your puppy because it has nutrients for promoting body and brain development. Your Mini Goldendoodle will have strong bones, healthy skin, and a glossy coat. Instead, the Nutro Nature Choice diet has kale, spinach, bran, brown rice, pumpkin, and rice bran. All these are healthy foods. Pros A high-quality non-GMO dog food. Boasts high protein levels. An exclusive kibble for puppies. Cons The brand is hard to locate in stores. Slightly expensive for some puppy lovers. One dog food product that could give you exactly that is Sold Gold Wee Bit. It has whole foods like brown rice, pearled barley, and real bison. It is a holistic dog food without any potatoes. The ingredients label shows that this dog meal has a balanced amount of protein, fat, and fiber. Consult about the suitability of this as the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with sensitive stomach. A high-fiber diet can prevent constipation and can also cause an upset stomach. Pros A nutritious dog food item with adequate nutrients. Sold Gold dog food has an ideal bite size for miniature pets. This is a high fiber diet. Cons 9. This dog food is fit for miniature Goldendoodle puppies as it has more protein. Its four recipes include water buffalo, lamb, egg product, and sweet potatoes. The fat content is seventeen percent. You can purchase bags weighing five, fourteen, or twenty-eight pounds. The protein content comes from water buffalo, venison, and bison. The Taste of the Wild has also added fruits and vegetables like blueberries, raspberries, and peas to this product. These are high in antioxidants. Your little pet can also get adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from this dog food for Mini Goldendoodles. We have not found another dog food with probiotics and prebiotics. Hence, this puppy food can help dogs with stomach problems. Pros An adequate level of proteins. Has fruits and vegetables for healthier skin. Antioxidants reduce inflammation in the body. The product has nutrients that improve gut health. It has zero artificial fillers, additives, or preservatives. Cons Some puppies might excrete loose stools. Costly dog food. Solution Sensitivities. This is dry dog food with a salmon flavor. Each cup of this dog food provides calories. The fat and fiber portions are twelve and four-point-five percent respectively. This kibble has ten percent moisture content. Solutions Sensitivities is an affordable dog food for Mini Goldendoodles with sensitive bellies. Its nutrients are easy to digest. The product has no allergens or unsafe artificial additives. Instead, it contains a high-fiber food called chicory root plus coconut oil, chickpeas, and peas. Due to salmon, this best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles from Go! Solutions have high omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Hence, it will give your pet a healthy coat and skin. Pros Go! Solutions Sensitivities Dog Food has salmon protein. Dogs can digest nutrients fast. This dog food has no synthetic chemicals. You can buy it for puppies with digestive difficulties. Ideal for underweight puppies. This is a high-calorie diet unsuitable for obese dogs. Healthy puppies could get overweight. We have picked it as the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles because of this simple fact. Adult dogs weighing nine to twenty-two pounds can eat this high-quality dog food. Another good thing about this best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles is that it can potentially boost brain development. However, we dislike that this dog food provides low protein content and more grains. Pros Appropriate kibble size for small pets. Can give your pet more energy. It can boost skin and brain health. Cons .Protein comes from pork meat, chicken fat, and beef. Victor Classic Hi-Pro is also a grain-based dog diet without gluten. Eighty-eight percent of that protein comes from meat. This dog food can boost immunity through nutrients like selenium and omega fatty acids. Again, the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles by Victor Classic can assist dogs with poor gut health via healthy prebiotics and probiotics. Pros Contains nutrients fit for the immune system. This dog food can boost gut health. Dogs in all life stages can eat Victor Classic Hi-Pro dog food. It has a super high level of protein. Cons It might make some pets have an upset stomach. Some dogs dislike the flavor. The dry kibble has up to thirty-four percent protein, the highest we have seen. One cup of kibble contains calories, making this a high-energy diet. The fat content is half the amount of protein, fiber is three-point-five percent, and moisture is ten percent. If your miniature Goldendoodle loves non-stop play, it can replenish its energy levels with the Crave High Protein Dry Food. As this dog food formula has no grains, it will work for dogs that dislike cereals. Additionally, dogs that require nourishment from grains might not benefit from this item. It contains a high amount of protein. Provides a healthy level of fat content. Cons Can cause obesity in dormant pets. This dog food has no grains. Hence, it could be a perfect choice for an obese miniature Goldendoodle. Offering up to forty-six percent protein from rabbit meat and thirty-two percent fats, this dog food is super healthy. Additional nutrients are five percent fiber and an equal amount of moisture. Finding a high-quality raw dog food product like this is difficult. Thus, you are lucky to read this article on the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles today. It also contains organ meat, bone, fruits, and vegetables. Offering up to 50,, CFU live prebiotics, this raw dog food can boost gut health. Pros Raw rabbit is not an allergen. This dog food has live prebiotics. You can serve raw rabbit food as the main meal or as a topper. High protein dog food. Stella and Chewy is expensive dog food. Some dogs might dislike the food texture. It is in the form of delicious treats for your small dog. Including four different flavors, these treats offer flexibility when selecting the most appropriate taste for your pet. We made this product among the best choices because it is high in protein. It also has other pure ingredients. You can serve it to your pet as it has no gluten or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This dog food is in the form of jerky sticks. Pros This dog food is high in protein from venison and beef. Treats have no grains as the main ingredient. The only flavor of this dry kibble is chicken. If your senior dog loves chicken meat, the Iams Proactive Dog Food could be ideal for it. It has calories per cup and is up to twenty-four percent protein. This dog food has a lower fat content of .It is the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles who seven years are and above. Pros A recipe with nutritious free-range chicken meat. Chicken fat can enhance skin health. Ideal for older dogs. This kibble can cause bloating. Some small dogs might not like this kibble size. However, it might only work best for you if you have another high-protein dog meal. However, its fat content of 1. For healthy miniature Goldendoodles, this food alone might not provide adequate protein. Pros Perfect for dogs with indigestion symptoms. Proteins that take a short time to digest. Cons A prescription is a must to get this Mini Goldendoodle puppy food. An expensive food product. FAQs 1. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles puppies is the one you will select from our long list. Mini Goldendoodles do not necessarily need a grain-free diet. The best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles should have a low number of whole grains for fiber, antioxidants, etc. Ensure a product that has grains also has protein as the highest ingredient. Grains should be gluten-free to prevent stomach issues. Choosing the best dog food for Mini Goldendoodles is not enough. You should feed the dog adequate food for its body size and weight. Older dogs should eat four to five cups twice a day. After finding thebest dog food for Mini Goldendoodles, feed your puppy according to its age. Small dogs should eat more often but in small portions. Larger dogs should eat big portions twice daily. We highly recommend Iams Proactive food for Mini Goldendoodles puppy. This dog food is a specific product for senior dogs. Related Posts. Of course, some diet options are better than others due to ingredient health content and benefits. Dry Kibble Dry kibble is a recipe that has been mixed together and baked until crunchy. Dry kibble comes in a variety of flavors and recipes that nourish or cater to different aspects of health. You can find a fitting recipe in just about any category. You can even find prescription recipes. Wet Food Wet food is canned chunks of protein, minerals, and vitamins in a savory sauce. Unopened cans can last years in storage. Wet food is typically higher in protein and moisture content, creating a very healthy meal for the muscles. Plus, they work great as a standalone diet or dry food topper. It can also be a great option for dogs with sensitive teeth, making it easier for them to chew. On the downside, you will have to make dental care a priority. Without the crunch of kibble, the residual food can build up on the gum line, causing plaque and eventual tartar. Raw-Infused Freeze-Dried Many pet food companies are picking up on the immense health benefits of raw food diets. While these are still in the making, with nutritionists working out the kinks, some companies offer freeze-dried raw infused food options. There are some definite overall health benefits of a more natural diet. Fresh Fresh food diets are interesting and up-and-coming. Some companies make fresh food available, delivered right to your door on a timed schedule. Other options can ship on sites like Chewy or in some pet stores. Image Credit: anetapics, Shutterstock Types of Dog Food Recipes Premium Recipes Premium recipes are generally those that have all-around nutrition to support everyday life. This is for any healthy adult dog, containing a series of proteins, grains, fruits, and veggies to promote optimal health. Limited Ingredient Diets Limited ingredient diets use as few additives as possible to eliminate the risks of irritation or allergies. Grain-Free Grain-free options contain no grains whatsoever, removing the risk of gluten exposure. There are some controversies regarding pea-filled grain-free diets and heart issues. High-Protein High protein diets gear to give pups a more primal diet, boosting animal content and reducing unnecessary ingredients. Sensitive Stomach Some dogs have very sensitive digestion that several ingredients can trigger, but proteins and certain grains are irritants most commonly. These recipes use easily digestible ingredients instead. Healthy Weight Try a healthy weight option if you have a chubby pal who could use a weight trim. It will reduce calories and fat while providing just the right amount of ingredients for a totally well-balanced diet. All Life Stages All life stages nourish the bodies of dogs regardless of pregnancy status or age. It has all of the necessary ingredients for everyday health and comes in a variety of fresh food flavors. Plus, it conveniently arrives on your doorstep. Your dog will delight in the savory flavor variety. Plus, you can serve it as a standalone diet or as a dry kibble topper to enhance appetite. No matter what you choose, hopefully, you found a diet that seems to work for you and your adorable Miniature Goldendoodle.

Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Cart Immediately Available Puppies Check this page often to see any available puppies - they go fast! Check the Puppy Adoption page to learn about our adoption process, then fill out our Puppy Application and get on the list! Watch our Puppy Video to see some of our puppies in action with their Moms. Every puppy receives an individual puppy video to assist you with the selection process. Amy is the kind of pup who greets each day with a sunny disposition and a smile that can brighten the cloudiest of days. She's eager to learn new tricks and is always up for a game of "fetch the fun" or "chase your dreams. We can't wait to meet her forever family! Ezra Ezra This F1B English Standard Goldendoodle baby boy isn't just about cruising; he's all about keeping the strawberry Frappuccino safe from spillage and making sure those toddler giggles reach a record high. He's got patience that would make a saint jealous and a knack for adventure that rivals Indiana Jones. So, if you're on the lookout for a ride-or-die and sippin'-and-snackin' companion, this copilot is ready to hit the open road with you. Let's make memories, share smiles, and enjoy the journey — one hilarious pit stop at a time! She's not just looking for a forever home; she's looking to sprinkle love and joy into someone's life. This little snugglebug is as sweet as a scoop of your favorite ice cream on a sunny day. She's an eager learner, a loyal companion, and a natural-born hug therapist. Hope's got a tail that wags like there's no tomorrow, spreading happiness wherever she goes. He is well on his way to being house trained and he knows his basic commands. He's crate trained, walking on a loose leash, and ready to take on the world with his new people. He's the sweetest most beautiful boy to Boot! I can't wait to meet his new family. Moss Creek Goldendoodles. Born Nov 14th, ready Jan 12th These pup will mature on average 55 pounds. They will experience shedding but not as much as a Golden. Parents are Harrison and Delilah They will mature pounds with wavy to tight wavy coats. Born Aug 26th, Have had their first and second set of shots and Rabies vaccine. Mature Puppies Maeve and Charlie's Mini-Medium Goldendoodle Puppies Born : August 26th Ready: Around Oct 30th These pups are expected to mature on average ish pounds with wavy to curly coats that will experience low to no shedding. The weight and height sizing will likely follow a Bell curve with some pups lending more to Charlie's size 10 lbs , some more Maeve's size, 40 lbs and some a nice average of the two. Maeve is one of our gorgeous Standard Parti Poodles who has a tall petite build weighing only 40 pounds. She is a very loving and sensitive dog who likes to be active and involved in everything the humans are doing. Charlie is a Mini Goldendoodle who is a tiny little gentleman at about 10 lbs. He is such a sweet, lovable, clever and well behaved little dog! We can expect colours in this litter to include: Gold, Red, Brown. List is now open for deposits.

Now is the time to go over the dog with your hands. Particular attention should now be paid to the head. The Boxer standard, even though explicit in the head qualities desired, is also confusing to many people. It is the head that gives judges and breeders alike, the most trouble. If shown a selection of photographs of different heads, most good judges and breeders would agree which ones were the best. So why is it that head type varies so much? This was the profile of the head that was said to be laid down by the country of origin of the breed, and most breeders still regard it to be of excellent type. You can run a ruler on the balance of muzzle to the whole of the head and it will come out .In plain terms this means that the muzzle if half the length of the skull. The depth of muzzle is correct and so is the depth of skull. Heavy wrinkles are not evident anywhere on the skull. Note the planes of the head, with the deep stop and tip tilted nose. NB: The standard calls for the tip of the nose to be higher than the root of the muzzle! Note also the rounding out of the upper lip and chin in front of the nose. The head on the right is a European head of years ago and you can see the influence of the Munich Silhouette also on the English dog below from the 70's. A very nice puppy taken at 7 months of age. Notice the arch of skull, depth of muzzle and chin in profile. Same Female as a puppy and an adult A good Boxer head should not coarsen as the dog ages. Female - 5 years Now consider the head of the dog in front of you.Does the size of the head look in balance to his body? Can you distinguish the gender.Looking down on the head, does the skull merge smoothly into the muzzle? Does the head give you the impression of a smaller square attached to a larger square? Are the cheeks muscles smooth and not exaggerated? Is the chin visible from the front and of correct depth, making the whole muzzle from the front as deep as the width of the muzzle, but not unduly swept up and protruding like an English Bulldog. The chin should NOT be hidden by lips and flews? Of course no teeth will be visible! Does the muzzle look neither too narrow or too shallow in relation to the skull? Can you feel bone and substance in the muzzle, not just heavy padding as you lift the flews to look into the mouth. The same also applies to a young puppy. Mouth When you open his mouth.The Boxer is undershot but does not have a reverse scissor bite. The underjaw should have a gap of about the width of a pencil between his top and bottom teeth. Are the bottom teeth in a straight line, with the canines set wide apart? When checking the mouth of each side, is only one upper tooth visible between the canines? If there is a difference in spacing on one side than the other, check that the mouth is not wry. A very good mouth It is not uncommon for Boxers to have 7 or 8 teeth in the upper jaw between the canines. Excellent explantions of the mouth. Translation missing: en. There are dogs with little heads, like Yorkies. There are dogs with huge heads, like Saint Bernards. Some dogs have rounded heads, while others are almost square; some heads lead into a long tapering nose, and others have a flat face. But all dogs have a bump on their heads. In some dogs it is more noticeable than others, but it's there. And people have noticed it for a long time. So much so that some folklore has developed around it. Even the Disney cartoon dog Pluto has a large bump on his head. What Is a Knowledge Bump? The bump on a dog's head is sometimes referred to as a "knowledge bump," a "knowledge knot," or a "wisdom bump," so it should come as no surprise that it was once thought to be an indication of a dog's intelligence. Some breeds of dogs have a more prominent bump than others. Hounds, especially Bloodhounds, have a very large bump. Since the bump was so large, and Bloodhounds' sense of smell is so keen, some believed there was a correlation between the two. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and English Setters are other breeds which sport an exceptionally noticeable bump. Officially Called an "Occiput" This bony protuberance has an actual name: an "occiput. Its primary purpose is to protect the bones of the dog's skull and, in turn, his brain. Predators would often try to crush a dog's skull, so the more protection the skull had, the better the chances of survival for the dog. The other use it serves is to assist the dog's head movement in relation to the spine. The bump is also the home of several nerve endings. Some who practice therapeutic canine massage and acupuncture believe this area of a dog's head is worthy of extra attention. Occiput Issues to Look Out For Although the existence of an occiput is necessary and natural, any change in the appearance of it can be a red flag. Since it protrudes, it may get bumped. If the blow is hard enough it can cause a bruise, which can make the area appear larger than usual. Muscle atrophy can also cause the bump to appear more pronounced. It's important that the underlying cause of muscle loss be discovered and treated, unless it is due to old age. As adolescent dogs mature, their bump can become larger temporarily. Hair loss around the area can make the bump appear larger as well. If you notice any changes in your dog's occiput, take him to his vet. It could be something harmless, as in a growing dog, but it could be the first sign of a serious ailment that requires the vet's attention. Whether large or small, your dog has a bump on his head. Keep an eye on it and watch for any changes. And regardless of its prominence, it's just one more little feature that makes your dog the dog you love so much. Pam Hair Pam Hair is a pet industry copywriter with Fuzzy Friends Writer , where she combines her three passions: a love of animals, a strong desire to help other people, and the joy of writing. She has been a pet parent over the years to dogs, cats, and a variety of rodents. Currently she and her husband share their home with two guinea pigs. Share Post. February 27, at p. It tallies up to films and many come with nifty interactive elements, including Spotlight Events that feature live-streamed conversations with filmmakers and actors, along with communal screenings and events. Which movies should you not miss? We have 10 ideas. Most films are available to stream throughout the March festival. For a full program and to purchase tickets, visit creatics. In the not-so-distant future, wanna-be parents are required to pass key tests so they can attain the green light to procreate. They keep waiting and start acting like squabbling infants themselves. Kelley and Sherman deliver on a solid premise and give us a convincing critique on the fragility of the male psyche. This duo has a promising future. Details: p. How did he land in this predicament and who tossed him in there? It receives a world premiere. A big break eludes ambitious SoCal comedian Amber Nash who ventures home for the holidays once she learns that her kooky dad Colin Mochrie had an accident. Every line of dialogue pops like a shaken-up bottle of champagne in this enjoyable outing. At times, though, it plays things a little too loose a bit featuring gay slurs backfires for its own good. Levin reflects on how it put a stranglehold on his life, shutting off relatives, friends and others not associated with L. So props to that. Details: Available to stream March .This peppy world premiere is guaranteed to boost your spirits. Related Articles. Life Span Did You Know? They originated in the United States around and were the first non-sporting dog breed to originate in the U. Boston Terriers, or Bostons, are small, compact dogs with erect ears and short tails. In addition to being great companions, Boston Terriers also tend to excel in dog sports. They can often be found training and competing in agility, tracking, flyball, and more. With their outgoing, friendly personalities, they are one of the most popular dog breeds and are also a popular choice for therapy dogs. The Boston Terrier is an intelligent, enthusiastic, affectionate, and playful dog breed. They tend to have a gentle, sweet disposition and a friendly personality. As long as they have been socialized properly, they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They even tend to be open and friendly to meeting strangers, even if they may bark to alert you. Bostons are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in apartments as well as larger homes with yards where they can run. They do well in most climates. However, they are a snub-nosed dog breed, which makes them even more sensitive to heat. Their short coat also means they may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the winter. Because Boston Terriers bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Boston Terrier can include cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, patellar luxation , allergies, and deafness. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the health and history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Like Boxers, Pugs, and more, Boston Terriers also tend to have sensitive digestive systems, which makes them gassy dogs, especially when their diet is not closely monitored. Because they are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a small head and short muzzle or snub-nose, Bostons are prone to snoring and can be prone to reverse sneezing. Doing some things to help your dog through seasonal allergies can help cut down and manage the mucus that leads to reverse sneezing during peak allergy season. Boston Terriers are an intelligent dog breed that tends to pick up on things quickly and learn fast. Although they can be stubborn at times, they tend to be easy to train, eager to please their owners, and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. One of the facts about Boston Terriers is that they do well with a variety of verbal cues and commands. Because they are sensitive to the sound of your voice and in tune with you, they can be trained to respond to various intonations. Bostons have a short, smooth coat that should be black, seal, or brindle with white markings. They shed a little year-round. Bostons are loved for their big, round eyes, but they are also prone to getting debris in their eyes, which causes irritation. Check their eyes every day for redness, irritation, debris, discharge, etc. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. Gum disease in dogs is one of the most common health issues and can have serious consequences. As a small dog breed, a Boston is even more prone to developing it and other dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth daily along with cleanings at the vet as needed are a good start. These dogs may be small, but they love to play! Their exercise needs sit in a low-to-moderate range. Although they will have bursts of high energy when they play, daily walks and some playtime are usually enough for them. Just have some toys around and things to keep them busy when these bouts of hyperactivity occur. Even though they are small dogs, Boston Terriers tend to be versatile and athletic. Although they are brachycephalic dogs and you do need to be careful, there are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs. It may vary from dog to dog, but a Boston will generally be happy to spend time being active with you. A fully-grown Boston Terrier usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Boston Terriers generally live for years on average, and can sometimes live well into their teens. In addition to being the official state dog of Massachusetts, the Boston Terrier is a noted college mascot. Rhett the Boston Terrier is the mascot for Boston University. Wofford College, located in Spartanburg, also features a Boston Terrier as its mascot. Featured Boston Terrier Article.

April 4, Is your French Bulldog sleeping a lot in your opinion? Perhaps you are concerned if this is normal behavior for this breed of dog? It is a perfectly normal question to ask and I definitely researched this when my Frenchie was a puppy. But have you ever wondered if all this sleeping French bulldogs do is normal? Their sleeping patterns closely mimic our own, but differ in some important ways. When entering their sleep phase, French Bulldogs can take about 10 minutes or more to transition from the slow wave where their breathing slows, their blood pressure decreases, and their heart rate lowers. This is part of the process of your four-legged friend entering into rapid eye movement known as REM sleep. Sometimes my Frenchie has his eyes slightly open which creeps me out. I often see my Frenchie running or playing in his dreams and his little legs kick like they are running. French Bulldogs may only spend about 10 percent of their snoozing time in REM because of their irregular sleep patterns. Since they tend to doze off whenever they want, often out of boredom, they also wake up quickly and jump to alertness. Make sense? Do you think your French Bulldog is sleeping too much? Did you know that most fully-grown adults sleep around hours a day? Crazy right!? French Bulldog puppies require even more sleep, sometimes sleeping as hours per day! Older Frenchies can also sleep as much as their younger counterparts. The average French Bulldog spends about half of their day sleeping. Pretty impressive. As you have likely noticed, they are active in short bursts of activity and then go back to resting. Life is hard for a French Bulldog. Check out my article on crate training and picking the right crate here to assist with setting a good sleep schedule. I have personally found having a set sleep schedule helps to stem some behavior problems and helps with training. Does my French Bulldog sleep too much? Fear not my fellow French Bulldog owner it is perfectly natural. As I mentioned above, these little bundles of joy require ample amounts of down time. It is very unlikely you have anything to worry about with your Frenchie sleeping as much as they do. It is perfectly natural for your French Bulldog to be sleeping the majority of every day. Due to how they get into REM sleep it is very normal and nothing to worry about. Share on facebook. How many hours do the French Bulldogs sleep? On average, you can expect French bulldogs to sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, and another hours at night. French bulldog puppies and older Frenchies might sleep even longer, ranging between 18 to 19 hours a day. Why do French bulldogs sleep so much? Known as REM or rapid eye movement. You might have heard that term before as humans need REM sleep too. You might have observed your French bulldog twitching their tails or rapidly moving their eyeballs with eyes closed, well this is maybe their deep sleep phase. Most of the sleeping habits of your French bulldogs are the same as that of humans. You will see a puppy between 0 to 18 months sleeping around 18 to 20 hours a day. Young bulldog puppies are full of energy and you will always find them running around in the house and creating havoc. They need a good amount of sleeping time to recover from all the activity. Additionally, your French bulldog puppies are constantly growing. And a lot of sleep is required during this period of growth. Sleeping at this age helps your Frenchie grow into a well-developed adult. The next phase of their life is adulthood, between the age groups of 3 and 6 years, you will find them sleeping between 12 to 14 hours a day. They will usually sleep during the nights for full 6 to 7 hours and scattered sleep sessions throughout the day. Generally, adult French bulldog divides their day into 3 periods. When your French bulldog gets older and is between the age of 7 to 8 years, they will return to similar sleeping habits to when they were puppies. Like humans, as your French bulldog is aging it will need more rest. Hence, you will find them lazing around, napping or sleeping around most of the time when they become senior citizens. What times of the day do French Bulldogs sleep? You will find French bulldogs sleeping their longest sessions during the nights. The remaining 5 to 7 hours of sleep is done throughout the day in the form of frequent naps. When to be concerned with their sleeping habits? It might be the onset of something serious so better get your dog examined. Some symptoms such as change or loss of appetite, Coughing and Sneezing, Vomiting and diarrhea, drinking either too much or too little water, overall general lethargy might be a sign your French bulldog has an underlying medical condition that needs treatment. Conclusion French Bulldogs are endearing and lovable dogs. When they enter your home, they become a part of your family. Make sure you provide this special member of your family with everything it needs. The most important of all being, its sleep and rest. While we humans are designed to require around hours of sleep per night, adult French Bulldogs generally need around 12 to 14 hours of sleep daily. Frenchie puppies can sometimes sleep for even longer, anywhere from 18 to 19 hours of sleep per day, only waking up for an hour or so after a few hours of rest. The truth is that the amount of sleep your dog need really depends on these four factors 1. Age As previously stated, Frenchie puppies are going to require much more sleep than their adult counterparts. As they age into seniorhood, your Frenchie is also likely to require more sleep during this time of their life as they tire easier. Activity Level Does your Frenchie live a sedentary lifestyle? Unlike breeds that are bred to perform specific activities such as sniffing out bombs and drugs, assisting a patient with their medical problems, or other service animal needs, Frenchies are best at just hanging around keeping you company. Life Changes Has your dog been going through any major life changes, such as but not limited to the following? Current State of Health Is your Frenchie suddenly sleeping more than usual? Do you think your dog is sleeping a bit too much? There might be a reason why… Sure, as your dog ages they will tire more quickly and require more sleep. But does something just seem a bit off about their sleeping habits? There could be a few reasons why your Frenchie is sleeping excessively… Cancer. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea because of obesity How do identify abnormal sleeping habits As a serious pet owner monitoring your Frenchie sleeping habits should be a top priority as abnormal sleeping habits could be a sign that your pooch has fallen sick. Here are a few symptoms we recommend you to look for: Continuous rapid breathing while sleeping. Staying awake for 10 hours or more. Unexpected convulsions with frequent eye-rolling indicating possible seizures. Unusual sleep cycles Trouble waking them up even after sleeping for a good amount of time. Do Frenchies sleep through the night? While some adult Frenchies comfortably sleep at night, in most cases young Frenchies have trouble sleeping at night, but this improves as they age. Besides that, if you move to a new house, your pooch may have challenges sleeping as he tries to adapt to the new environment. You can help your Frenchie adapt to the new environment by allowing him to sleep with you for a few days. Your Frenchie may also struggle to sleep at night if he has been resting the entire day. If that is the case, he may struggle to close his eyes when it is time to sleep. Taking time to play with your pooch around the house for a few hours before sleep can help him sleep throughout the night well. Make your Frenchie comfortable Frenchies rely on their owners to live a comfortable life. So, you should try as much as possible to provide him with a good environment. To help your dog nap more comfortably, we recommend you find a soft Frenchie bed filled with memory foam. It is also vital to teach your Frenchie how to crate as this can prevent him from suffering from separation anxiety in the near future. Keep your Frenchie fit It is obvious your pooch will gain weight for spending most of the time indoors and lounging quite a bit. You can prevent your Frenchie from obesity by keeping him entertained. For example, get your Frenchie some cool toys to play with. Alternatively, take your Frenchie for a minute walk and remember not to do this in warm weather as Frenchies are prone to overheating. Wrapping up While French Bulldogs tend to nap quite a bit than other dogs, it is good to be mindful of abnormal sleeping habits as they may be a cause of concern. Immediately your notice any irregular sleep pattern makes sure to keep a close eye and to consult your vet in case that change persists. Written by jay kang. French Bulldogs sleep so much because they are a short-snouted breed that has a short nose that makes it hard to breathe, so they get tired quickly, it also turns out that French Bulldogs have a pretty unique sleep cycle and are liable to have respiratory problems. They also have a tendency to overheat, and limiting activity helps keep that from happening. The French Bulldog is a big cuddler and likes to sleep close to their humans. They enjoy this contact and comfort. The French Bulldog is a toy breed and is liable to have respiratory problems. In order to keep them from becoming overheated, they need to sleep in the coolest, most comfortable place possible. There are some breeds of dogs that are notorious for being lazy. This breed of dog is one that is notorious for sleeping for the vast majority of the day. They sleep so often that you may even wonder if they are not entirely alive. French Bulldogs are known for their long naps, but why?! But there is a more scientific answer. It turns out that French Bulldogs have a pretty unique sleep cycle. They sleep for about 12 hours at a time, but they only sleep in spurts of about 30 minutes to an hour. Reasons Why French Bulldogs Sleep So Much Here are some of the common reasons why French Bulldogs sleep so much which are as follows: Breed traits and fewer activities to perform French Bulldogs were selectively bred to be human companions and not to be service dogs like German shepherds or hunting dogs like Beagles. Being human companions, Frenchies do not need to do lots of exercises to stay healthy, but just to perform their primary task of companionship. Since French Bulldogs are not servicing dogs they have nothing to do rather than sleep in their spare time. They also sleep a lot because they are generally prone to heat exhaustion, and can not work for long. Hormone Imbalance Due to this reason of some hormonal changes in most Frenchies, French Bulldogs tend to have longer sleeping hours during winter. Additionally, many French Bulldogs have a higher incidence of hormone imbalance. It could be caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency, and the result is extreme sleepiness and even depression. The warm temperature of the house, as well as its chemical makeup, may cause excessive levels of stress to French Bulldogs which always results in sleeping too much. French Bulldogs are adapted to the changing environment, but this affects their sleep patterns and can explain the long sleeping hours during the winter. Generally, Frenchies tend to sleep longer during the winter, as it helps them fight off seasonal mood changes. Being depressed and angry is a common side effect of seasonal affective disorder in French Bulldogs. As it is also known as the winter blues, seasonal depression also makes Frenchies sleep longer. Changes in Routine Your Frenchie can result in unnecessary lengthy sleeping because of the little change in your daily routine, after all, they love sleeping. Over Stimulation Much like us humans, French Bulldogs get overstimulated in the winter months. They have to contend with many other factors that affect their sleep. Also, an increasing number of French Bulldogs are kept indoors and the average temperature in the houses is lower. As the temperature starts to drop, French Bulldogs tend to get tired, making it hard to get them to go back to their feet. This leads to them sleeping longer as a natural reaction. The right temperature and temperature changes in the environment could have a severe effect on their health. It is recommended to bring them to the warmest room in the house, remove unnecessary clothes, use a shaded lamp to control the indoor temperatures, and ensure that they have enough space to play and sleep. The colder temperatures inside the house make it difficult for Frenchies to get rid of all the drowsiness. French Bulldogs fall asleep more easily in such extreme temperatures. If the temperature is high, it leads to unnecessary heat exhaustion, which makes Frenchies weak. Mold and mildew The lack of ventilation in the houses during the winter leads to mildew and mold. While the French Bulldog is sleeping, it is not getting proper air circulation. The longer it stays inside, the more chances are there for the air to get trapped in the house and lead to mildew. This is why French Bulldogs tend to sleep longer when there is a mildew or mold problem in their houses. Light exposure French Bulldogs have very sensitive eyes that depend heavily on sight to help them function. As it gets darker outside, there is a gradual decrease in the amount of daylight. Generally, French Bulldogs are not always doing good when exposed to high-light intensity which can sometimes force them to go to bed for several hours. Death of companion This is one of the major reasons why French Bulldogs may result in oversleeping as a sign of depression or anxiety. French Bulldogs are an amazing social breed of dogs that are often attached to a single person that takes more care of them. When they lose their loved ones, they become highly depressed, they may start staying on their own, and can develop separation anxiety. Age French Bulldog puppies are going to require much more sleep than their adult counterparts. As they age into adulthood, your Frenchie is also likely to require more sleep during this time of their life as they tire easier. Adult French Bulldogs sleep as much as hours per day. Frenchie puppies may sleep as long as 18 hours per day, and senior French Bulldogs tend to sleep for much longer. So to wrap it up, the current age of a Frenchie has a lot to do with how long they sleep. Questions Here is more interesting information that will help you understand why French Bulldogs sleep so much: How do I know if my Frenchie is getting enough sleep? Here are signs your French Bulldog is getting enough sleep which is as follows: Waking you up long before your alarm goes off. French Bulldog becomes too active during the night. Always Sleepy during the day Needing to go outside in the middle of the night. Less snoring at night Sleeping after a few minutes of eating. Why do French Bulldogs sleep with their eyes open? Is it bad for French bulldogs to sleep all day? Yes, it is not right for French Bulldogs to sleep all day, but it is a good practice that French Bulldogs at most sleep not more than 8 — 10 hours per day, anything more than this, is not normal because they may become lazy and develop unnecessary health challenges. They still need little exercise to keep them fit. Why do French Bulldogs like to sleep so close to their humans? French Bulldogs love to sleep close to their owners because French Bulldogs were selectively bred to be human companion dogs that are always around their owners, also French Bulldogs are great cuddlers that thrive better on human companions rather than staying alone which is why they are prone to separation anxiety. How does the overheating affect French Bulldog sleep? It is recommended you calm your Frenchie down before you send them to bed, according to French Bulldog Owner there are many ways you can help French Bulldogs with overheating. How do I know if my Frenchie is not getting enough sleep? There are many ways to know that your Frenchie is not getting enough sleep, which is as follows: When your French Bulldog seems grumpy If your Frenchie is always disoriented. Your Frenchie is very forgetful. When your Frenchie finds it difficult to concentrate or performing his usual tasks. If your Frenchie is always pacing at night. Suddenly collapsing after activity Always snoring too loud after a little exercise. Signs of Insomnia Can my French bulldog sleep in my bed? Why are French Bulldogs prone to so much snoring? French Bulldogs are prone to snoring because they are a short-snouted breed that has a short nose that makes it hard for them to breathe, so they get tired quickly. Their narrow nostrils make it hard for them to take in air and push out air, which results in snoring most of the time. Too much exercise can lead to a French Bulldog heat exhaustion, which is a problem most Frenchies encounter and when they sleep, they snore a lot. How to identify abnormal sleeping habits in French Bulldogs Being a reputable and good Frenchie owner entails you will monitor your Frenchie sleeping habits which should be a top priority as unusual sleeping habits can be a sign that your Frenchie is sick. Here are some symptoms to watch out for: Constant unusual sleep cycles. Having trouble waking up your Frenchie even after sleeping for a long? Staying awake for 8 hours in a row. Frequent eye-rolling indicates possible seizures. Constant convulsions Health Reasons Why French Bulldogs show abnormal sleeping habits Here are some medical reasons why French Bulldogs may show signs of abnormal sleeping habits: Intense depression. Search Close this search box. This is understandable, they nap their way throughout the day. Since sleep is crucial to their health, you should know what habits are odd for your furry companion. Table of Contents French Bulldogs are big sleepy heads. They have personalities that shine even in their weird sleeping positions. But their long sleep hours can concern even dog lovers. Most of the time, it is nothing to worry about. What is more worrying is that even in their sleep, they want to be beside you. So to help them get the quality sleep they need, read on. Do French Bulldogs Love to Sleep? When they say that a tired Frenchie is a happy Frenchie, it is because they can sleep comfortably. Their love for sleep is what makes them perfect apartment dogs. They are content with lounging and napping the day away until you come home. Age Depending on their age, Frenchies will sleep more or less. Puppies tend to sleep more than adults. And once your Frenchie becomes a senior, they will go back to sleeping more Lifestyle Frenchies who are more active may need to nap more to recharge their energy level. Those who have a more sedentary lifestyle may not nap as much. This can lead to unwanted behaviors if they get bored while awake. Environmental Changes Frenchies may sleep less in response to changes in the household. Moving houses, a new family member, and death are a few things that can stress them out. Also, Frenchies who have separation anxiety may sleep much less. Older Frenchies are more susceptible to developing these, so they sleep more. The following are a few health issues that can cause excessive sleepiness: Canine Depression Hypothyroidism Sleep Apnea Due to Obesity There are a lot more other illnesses that can make your Frenchie sleep more than usual. Do French Bulldogs Nap a Lot? Many people regard Frenchies as a lazy breed, but that is because they love napping a lot. And it may surprise you that when they are awake, they can get pretty hyper. They make the most out of their energy while awake, so they will play and run around when they can. But since they are a low-energy breed, this energy can wear out fast. That is why they need constant naps throughout the day to recharge. It is alarming if your Frenchie is wide awake for 10 hours or more in a day. This is not a normal sleeping habit for them since they have to nap a lot. When a Frenchie is sleep-deprived, their immune system becomes weak. This makes them prone to getting sick and developing serious health issues. So if you notice that your Frenchie is not napping as much anymore, take them to the vet for a check-up. Adult Frenchies sleep anywhere between 10 to 14 hours a day. While older Frenchies need to sleep at around 15 to 18 hours a day since they easily get tired. This is why older Frenchies go back to sleeping like puppies. Another reason is that Frenchies become prone to health issues as they age. Their bodies are working so much, so it needs to recover with sleep. Both short-term and long-term illnesses have this effect on Frenchies. Frenchies can sleep 7 hours at night uninterrupted, but this can vary. While some can sleep as long as you do during the night, others cannot. The most common reason for this is that they have slept enough during the day. So when it is bedtime, they do not feel tired enough. This is why you should provide your Frenchie with means to keep themselves active during the day. If you cannot play with them because you are at work, interactive toys will do. And if your Frenchie has other furry companions, they will keep each other active while you are away. Older Frenchies may find it hard to sleep through the night. They cannot hold their bladders as well as they used to. So they may take frequent trips to the bathroom at night. This can also be true for younger or adult Frenchies. Stress, health issues, and medications can make them pee more than usual. You may think that your Frenchie is sleeping too much, but it is normal for them to spend most of the day sleeping. They are only awake for about 30 percent of the day. For a breed that can sleep as much as 20 hours a day, it is not unusual to ask yourself if there is something wrong with them. But do not expect them to sleep as long as you do, as they have different sleeping patterns. Frenchies only get about 10 percent of REM sleep whenever they are snoozing. While humans get 25 percent of REM sleep to compare. This means that they can nap whenever they feel like it and wake up completely alert. But that would mean that they need to sleep more to make up for the incomplete REM sleep that they had. As long as your Frenchie sleeps within the normal range hours per day , you should not worry. If they are sleeping more than usual, it can be due to stress or underlying health problems. Frenchies spend half of their day sleeping because they need a lot of rest. It is because of their love for sleep that many regard Frenchies as a lazy breed. If your Frenchie naps a lot throughout the day, this is their normal sleeping habit so you should not worry. You should only worry when your Frenchie presents abnormal sleeping habits. Frenchies can regulate their sleep times on their own, relying on their body clock. As long as they are healthy, they should get the right amount of sleep themselves. For adult Frenchies, this would be around 10 to 14 hours per day. While puppies and older Frenchies need more, at around 15 to 19 hours a day. Some can even sleep as much as 20 hours per day. Of course, this will also depend on factors other than age. Especially if your Frenchie has a health issue. If your Frenchie does have one, it is best to talk to your vet about this. If your Frenchie is not tired before bedtime, they will not sleep and you may not be able to as well. So play with them right before your bedtime! This releases all the energy that they have accumulated with naps throughout the day. It does not even have to be a long playtime, 10 to 20 minutes will do for their low energy. Other than that, there are other ways that you can help your Frenchie to sleep through the night. Below are a few of them. Crate Training To your Frenchie, their crates are like their own rooms. This is where they are most comfortable and where they feel protected. Having their safe space to go to is one of their canine instincts. The first step in this is to make their crates appealing to them. A quiet and cozy place of their own will help them to sleep at night. Comfortable Dog Bed You should not underestimate the magic that a cozy dog bed can do. If you want a soft bed for yourself, your Frenchie also wants one. But cotton-filled beds are the best to start with. If your Frenchie is older, you may want to invest in orthopedic dog beds. Especially if they have arthritis or joint pains. This will make sleeping more comfortable for them as it eases their pain, even a bit. With a routine, they will know exactly what is going to happen and when. And with an intelligent breed like Frenchies , they will quickly learn this. So schedule their bedtime and figure out what you can do before going to bed. You can insert playtime as part of your night rituals, which is effective in tiring them out. Comfort Toys As a clingy breed , Frenchies can get attached to anything that brings them comfort, even if it is a stuffed toy. Having their comfort toy beside them as they sleep will help to ease their anxiety. This can help you and your Frenchie to sleep uninterrupted at night. Sleep Beside Them This is especially helpful for Frenchies with anxiety. As their fur parent, you are their greatest source of comfort. Being able to feel your warmth and cuddle with you at night should bring them ease. Frenchie puppies sleep way more than adults. Having more energy means that they are spending more time playing. This leads to more and longer naps throughout the day for them to recharge. Puppies can sleep for hours and hours and this is necessary for their growth and immune system. So you should not worry about their sleeping habits. Relish the moment while they are asleep because it will get rowdy when they wake up. As puppies, it is normal for Frenchies to sleep around 18 to 19 hours per day. This unusual sleeping behavior is necessary for a rapidly growing pup. Other than that, puppies have too much energy for their bodies to handle. So they may be playing with their toys one minute, then sleep without you noticing it. When your Frenchie pup is awake, they take up a lot of energy too. Other than playing, they also use energy to explore the world. Constantly analyzing new sounds, smells, and sights take a toll on them. If you are trying to socialize your puppy, all the information they take in can be overwhelming for them. And at this young age is when most of the training should happen. They have to learn from you, all the behaviors you want and do not want. With all that they go through during their waking hours, they need to sleep. Not only to recharge but also to process all that has happened during the day. This is when they can store all that they have learned in their brains. So if you think your Frenchie puppy is sleeping too much, they are probably not. You will know if they sleep too much when they have no energy after waking up from a nap. They should be happy and playful after snoozing. You need to wear down your Frenchie pup before bedtime since they have weird sleep cycles. Puppies find it hard to sleep through the night, but you can train them to. As they grow older, their sleep will sync with yours. Play Before Bedtime Spend some time playing with your Frenchie throughout the evening. At least 10 minutes will do to for their short attention spans. For dinner, you can use a puzzle feeder or a slow feeder bowl. Making it tricky for them to eat their meals will get them to work their brains. But make sure that this is not too difficult as they may give up trying. You can also play with your Frenchie right before bedtime. One last release of excess energy will make them want to snooze right away. Give Them a Comfort Blanket Puppies used to sleep with their litter and mothers. So this may be the reason why your Frenchie cannot sleep at night. You can give your pup a fluffy blanket to mimic the sensation of sleeping beside them. Lights in your home, even from your phone, can affect the release of this hormone. So having a crave cover for your Frenchie can prevent this from happening. Potty Break Before Bed Frenchie pups have small bladders , so they may need to go on frequent trips to the toilet. To help prevent this, take them for a potty break before you sleep. Calming Bedtime Ritual Canine behaviors like sniffing, chewing, and licking are all soothing to your Frenchie. You can use this to your advantage and calm them down before bedtime. Freezing their meals will make your Frenchie lick their food more. But you can also use a licking mat and their favorite treat for this. You can get creative and see what works! Use White Noise There are many playlists online made to lull your Frenchie to sleep. This can also help to distract them from other noises in the house, some of which may scare them. Frenchie puppies will start to sleep uninterrupted at night at around 4 months old. This will depend on your Frenchie. But you can speed up the process if you start training them at an early age. There are areas that your Frenchie may nap in more than others, like your sofa. As a breed who loves to sleep, Frenchies have certain places in your home that they love to snooze on, but why? Below are common places that Frenchies go for a nap and why they like them. On Soft Surfaces Frenchies love to lie down in soft places as humans do. So they will hop on your bed or sofa to get a good nap. Close to the Heater or Aircon As a brachycephalic breed, Frenchies cannot regulate their body temperature well. So during the winter, you will find them nestled near the heater for warmth. And during hotter seasons, they will nap near the aircon or fan to cool down. Frenchie puppies should have a soft and cozy place to sleep in a quiet place. You can even have sleep beside you if you want them to. No matter where your Frenchie sleeps, it should be in a cozy and quiet place to make them comfortable. They should have a soft and cuddly bed to lie down on too that is slightly elevated. If your puppy has a crate, you should keep these in mind It will also help if you leave them comfort toys and a piece of your used clothing. This will make them feel at ease since they can smell you while they are off to dreamland. But a lot of puppies will also want to sleep beside you. They are still getting used to sleeping away from their mothers and littermates. Having you, their fur parent, beside them will ease their distress. Since Frenchies are companion dogs, it is natural for them to desire to sleep beside you. They are very affectionate so they will want to cuddle with you and feel your warmth while sleeping. And if you have been showing them lots of love, they will want to sleep beside you even more. Another reason is that they see you as the leader of their pack. Their instinct is to seek protection as sleeping is when they are vulnerable. They know that you are their protector, so they will snuggle up to you for this. According to experts, you can let your Frenchie sleep beside you if you want to. It is a great way to bond with your Frenchie and it can have a positive impact on your mental health. As long as you do not run over them while you are sleeping, they can sleep in your bed without problems. Having your Frenchie sleep in bed with you is a matter of preference. You can if you want to and having them sleep beside you is comforting. Especially if you have issues with your mental health or sleep disorders. But of course, it is not that simple. To help you decide, here are the factors that you should consider. But they cannot help it, their deformed face shape restricts their airflow. If you are a light sleeper, this may not be a good idea. They Fart A Lot Frenchies are prone to flatulence. This can be due to their sensitive stomachs or it can be due to the way they eat. Chances are, you will wake up because of their stinky farts. They Invade Your Space It may surprise you that they take up much of your bed space even if they are not that big. Frenchies love to stretch when they are asleep, leaving you less bed space. Another thing to consider is your personal space. They will push themselves into your face whether you like it or not. This can be an issue if you sleep with your partner. They Can Trigger Allergies If you are an allergy sufferer, keep in mind that Frenchies are not hypoallergenic. They shed quite a bit, leaving dander all over your bed. And even if you are not allergic to dogs, their fur can trap pollen, dirt, or dust that can trigger your allergies. They Can Get Hot While this is great for winter, sleeping with your Frenchie in the summertime is a nightmare. They can get very warm, which can disrupt your sleep. They Can Get Harmed Both you and your Frenchie move around when asleep, so they can get physically hurt if you share a bed with them. You can roll over them at night without you noticing. Or they can get caught in the sheets when they roll around, injuring themselves. They Get Too Attached Once your Frenchie gets so used to sleeping with you, they may get separation problems. An over-attachment to you can lead to separation anxiety. And this is the cause of many unwanted behaviors in Frenchies, including aggression. It is not the best idea to let your Frenchie puppy sleep with you. As tempting as it is, this does not help in teaching them to be independent. If your puppy gets used to sleeping with you, it will be hard to get them to sleep in their dog bed as adults. Also, they will grow up to struggle whenever you are away. Like adults, this can lead to separation anxiety, which can be crippling for your Frenchie. Making your Frenchie sleep in their beds needs a lot of your effort and time. It can be hard, but with consistency, your affectionate companion will get there. Below are the necessary steps to take to teach them how to sleep alone. Get a dog bed that is right for their size and is soft to tempt them to get in. Throw in some stuffed toys and a fluffy blanket for comfort and this will make their bed more appealing. Pick the Best Sleeping Spot You should place their dog bed near yours, so they feel at ease sleeping alone. Once you have chosen a spot, do not move it anymore. Their own space makes them feel secure and relaxed, so moving it will make them feel insecure. Prepare for Sleep Timing is everything, so make sure they had enough time to digest their dinner before going to sleep. This way, you can take them for a potty break before they sleep. A routine like this will help them know what to expect, so they are more open to your commands. Use Verbal Commands Tell your Frenchie to go to their beds before bedtime every night. Make sure to reward them if they listen so they will have a positive association with their beds. Do this at around the same time at night for them to learn their night routine. This will help if your Frenchie is afraid of sleeping in their beds alone. While they would prefer to sleep beside you, Frenchies can learn to like sleeping in their beds. This requires consistent and repetitive training. There is no cut-and-dry answer to this. The best dog bed for your Frenchie will depend on their needs and their likes. It is up to you and your companion to figure out what works best. But not any dog bed will do. Frenchies like to stretch and change positions, so this is important. For them, the best dog bed is an orthopedic bed which eases their joint pains. Make sure their bed can withstand their bites. Cleaning The Bed: For messy Frenchies, their beds can easily get dirty. There are beds with removable covers to help cut down your cleaning time. Bed Style: You can opt for dog beds that are covered if your Frenchie likes enclosed spaces. What Size Bed for a French Bulldog? For a standard-sized French Bulldog , a medium bed size will work. Keep in mind that male Frenchies are larger than females, so you may need to size up or down depending on their sex. Can French Bulldogs Sleep Outside? Frenchies are indoor dogs so they should not sleep outside under any circumstances. Even keeping them outside for a long time is not a good idea. The main concern is that they cannot handle hot or cold weather well. They have short furs that do not provide them enough insulation for the cold. And they have restricted airways that will not help them cool down efficiently when it is hot. Another concern is that this companion breed will get depressed when left outdoors a lot. They thrive on human interactions so depriving your Frenchie is cruel. Frenchies will sleep on their backs when it is hot so they can cool down. You will see them do this more often during the summer when it gets too warm. The only sweat glands dogs have are in their paws. Also, the fur on their bellies is thinner and sparser. So by lying down on their backs, they expose their paws and bellies to the air. This maximizes their way of cooling down. Any dog breed will do this, but this is especially important for Frenchies. A consequence of being a brachycephalic breed is that they cannot cool down properly. Other dogs do this better by breathing, but Frenchies have inefficient airflow. Also, Frenchies are prone to obesity. Dogs with excess weight have trouble cooling off since they have too much fluff in the way. Another reason for this position is that they feel safe in their surroundings. Leaving their internal organs exposed is dangerous if they are in an unsafe place. They cannot get up quick enough to protect themselves. But they will do this in a safe environment with people and other furry companions that they trust. So if you see your Frenchie exposing their belly to you, take it as a compliment. Lying down on their backs is a good way for your Frenchie to regulate their body temperature. Most dogs do this without risks. The only issue is if they sleep on their backs in an unfamiliar place. They will not be able to spring into action when there is some threat. But they are smart enough not to do this, so you should not worry about this. Digging beds is a presleep ritual that dogs do to make their bed more comfortable. There are various reasons behind this behavior including the following: Regulating Their Body Temperature Depending on the weather, your Frenchie will look for a cooler or warmer spot to rest. Their ancestors did this in the wild to protect themselves from other animals. While your Frenchie does not need to do this, their instincts are still strong. So when they are pawing at their bed, they are trying to spread this to claim their spot. This reason is likely for households with many dogs. Nesting If your Frenchie is pregnant , they are trying to prepare for their babies. They create a nest using their bed and blanket so that their puppies have a comfortable place to sleep in. Fluffing Their Bed Frenchies will also try to fluff their beds as humans do with their pillows. Once they have the arrangement that they like, they will circle around and then lie down to snooze. Frenchies will burrow themselves under the covers for protection. This is because sleeping is when your Frenchie is most vulnerable. It can also be because it is chilly and they are trying to keep themselves warm. If your Frenchie is sleeping under your covers, it is because they feel safe with you. You are the leader of their pack, after all, so they seek protection whilst asleep beside you. May 20, No comments The amount a French Bulldog sleeps is a topic of interest for many new Frenchie owners. It makes sense, because it would be concerning to see your dog sleeping all day if you were unfamiliar with the amount of sleep dogs typically need. The thing is, Frenchies vary in types , personalities , and family history which means each individual pup will have slightly different sleeping patterns. It may be in the nature of some Frenchies to sleep more than others, just like it is for humans. But, of course, there are some hard and fast rules you should be aware of. How much do French Bulldogs sleep? The simple answer is — French Bulldogs require a lot of sleep. Most adult Frenchies sleep approximately hours a day. However, for French Bulldog puppies or elderly dogs, this average can go as high as hours per day. Although Frenchies are avid sleepers, it is vital to note that they are also flexible sleepers. They can routinely change their pattern according to your schedule. Just like other dogs, Frenchies wake easily if there is a sudden knock at the door or another abrupt sound — their instincts are always ready to protect their owners. Is your French Bulldog sleeping too much? Wrap Frenchies are the perfect apartment-living dog given their small size, tendency to sleep long hours in the day, and small appetite for exercise. This is family and dinner time. We all spend time in the lounge. Awake for 3 hours. In the evening he comes upstairs. Sleeps on our bed whilst we watch TV. Asleep for 3 hours. We than take him downstairs. Before he beds down for the night he goes outside. Sniffs about for a while doing his business in the garden. Awake for 1 hour. He then goes back into the kitchen. He sleeps with our cat for the night. Asleep for 7 hours. Total hours a day asleep: 14 hours average. How these hours of sleep look over a 24 hour daily period I also put a graph together below which shows you what this sleep schedule looks like pictorially, running from 7am in the morning, through a 24 hour period. Not every day is the same, but the above is a pretty decent stab at what you might expect on average. Occasionally he will also have a mini-nap around mid-morning. Important: Dogs sleep for more hours in a day than they actually are awake. How many hours a day does a 3-month old French bulldog sleep? French bulldog puppies are a different case altogether, as just like human babies, they will sleep for hours and hours. French bulldog puppy sleeping habits are certainly different to adult dogs. If your puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks old or 3 months old, he could be sleeping for as much as 18 hours a day. This is Claude as a puppy, catching up on some sleep. Notice that he was sleeping with his eyes open! I know that the temptation will be to wake him, as they are so much fun at this age. Does my French bulldog sleep too much? The answer to this question is probably no. As a breed, French bulldogs tend to be a sleepier breed than your average dog. However, there can be some health issues to keep an eye on, if you feel that your Frenchie is exhibiting unusual sleep patterns and sleeping habits. Claude will come sleep on our bed for a few hours before he goes down to his own bed. Increased sleeping hours. Not sleeping well and out of sync, particularly staying awake at night. French Bulldog sleeping habits Below are some of the more common questions I see people asking on Facebook about their French Bulldog sleeping habits and schedules. Why does my French bulldog sleep with his eyes open? Sometimes French Bulldogs will sleep with their eyes open. When Claude falls asleep, often it will be with his eyes half open. I did some research online into why dogs and Frenchies sleep with their eyes open and found that this can be traced back to their ancestors. Sleeping with their eyes open was a defense mechanism which would let them keep safe from predators whilst resting. However, do keep watch on him, as if he is twitching in his sleep it could be the sign of a seizure if it gets to be violent movements, so look for any unusual behaviour. The most likely reason your Frenchie is sleeping with twitching legs and eyes will be because he is having a dream. Why does my French Bulldog sleep on his back? For example, a Frenchie who sleeps on his back will help him keep cool. This is because sleeping with an exposed tummy will let heat escape, letting him keep cool and happy on a warmer night. Why does my French bulldog is make puffing noises in his sleep? The physical make-up of a Frenchie is commonly known to lead to breathing issues. As brachiocephalic dogs they have short snouts. They will make a lot of strange noises in their sleep, puffing be just one of them. Similar to rapid breathing which I will come onto next. Claude as a puppy again. Sometimes French bulldogs will sleep on their backs. Why does my French bulldog have rapid breathing in his sleep? Rapid breathing is a common issue during Frenchie sleep too, most of which is related to their snout and airwaves not being as free as other dog breeds. But there are some signs that you should look out for. If your dog has rapid breathing in his sleep that seems unusual to him as a individual it could be a signal that: He is hot and his body temperature has increased. If you are worried, wake him up and see if he still has laboured breathing. If he is also sitting up in an unusual posture or his chest is moving irregularly it could be the sign of something serious. In fact, YouTube has plenty of videos showcasing this cute and funny behaviour. The following symptoms will often be seen in conjunction with hanging tongue syndrome. His tongue looks dry, rough, sore, with possible patches or spots. His tongue looks paler than normal and could be swollen. His breath smells worse than normal. His drinking has become less and loss of appetite. Final thoughts French bulldogs are adorable. The need their beauty sleep after all! But do be prepared, as once they wake up they will want your undivided attention! Handy Hint: Another guide you might find helpful is recommendations on how far and how often you should walk your French Bulldog puppy based on my own personal experiences. New born puppies are very helpless. They are born blind and deaf and unable to regulate their body temperatures, so we have to use an external heat source when the puppies are not in direct contact with mom. During this time period, their mothers have to stimulate them in order for them to urinate and have bowel movements. This is a very busy time for us and we are usually very sleep deprived because we assist the mothers every 3 hours around the clock to make sure that all puppies are latching on well, growing, and being stimulated to urinate and defecate. It is a critical time in which the puppies are so small that an unaware Frenchie mother could accidentally smother one or more of her pups, so we monitor them very closely. Lacey takes a video of each litter at 3 weeks of age and posts them on our website under New Puppies so that our clients near the top of the list, as well as other clients and prospective clients, can get a early look at them. They continue to gain weight rapidly over the next several months of their lives. At two weeks age their ears open and they are able to hear, and another big part of their new world opens up. Prior to this event, about all they do is grunt or mew, but afterward their vocabulary includes yelps, whines, and even little barks. At three weeks of age the more advanced puppies start taking their first shaky steps; prior to this their basic mode of transportation is basic army crawling. They are now able to urinate and defecate on their own and will move away from their sleeping area to do so. Up to this point it is strictly the mothers and us Donna, Lacey, and Bick who have handled the pups with lots of hand sanitizing before and after and they have been kept in their kennel. Even though it is hard on the kids, we do not let them or their friends handle them until 4 weeks of age. At four weeks we start introducing them to solid food initially crushed and moistened. By the end of the 4th week they are eating their crushed puppy food, with no water added, three times a day. Because they are not nursing as long or as often, we provide fresh water for them at all times. The kids are allowed to hold them now closely monitored and with clean hands and we allow the puppies to run around and explore our large main room in the house. At 5 weeks of age they are starting to run around all over the place when they are let out to play, and, when they are in their kennels, they play sometimes rather roughly with litter mates. It is during this time when some of their adult personalities will start coming out. By the end of this week their puppy teeth are all in, and they love to chew on things, including fingers if you let them. However, even at this age, they will spend most of their time sleeping, probably close to 20 hours per day, with only short times between naps when they are alert and active. By the end of the 6th week they are completely weaned from their moms and eating solid food well. We frequently take them out of their kennels to scamper around. They are full of energy and love to play with their litter-mates and the kids. This is the time that we really focus on socializing them and we even start their paper training. By 7 weeks they have already passed through most of their puppy milestones and are continuing to grow rapidly; they are generally in the 4 to 6 pound range. This is when their personalities really start coming out! It is so fun to watch them play with the kids and their litter-mates and observe their new fascination with toys. They have become somewhat accustomed to going potty on pee pads so that when they are out running around the room they often recognize them on the floor and will go potty on them. Though they are fast, active, playful little puppies at this point in their lives, they still are like babies and require lots of sleep probably over 18 hours per day and are still quite fragile. This video will show the color and conformation of each puppy, in addition to its personality. Their their third DAPP and 2nd Bordetella vaccinations are given at 12 weeks and then a yearly booster thereafter. The rabies shot can also be given at 12 weeks no later than 16 weeks. They are also regularly de-wormed and given a medication for the prevention of coccidia and giardia. Occasionally we hold onto puppies a little longer if we do not feel they are quite ready to go to their new homes. Our clients are encouraged to come to our home to meet their fur babies if this is feasible. When this is not possible, we arrange for one of our responsible puppy chaperones to hand deliver our puppies to meet their new owners at their nearest major airport. In fact, even as adults they will sleep at least half of the day in a series of long naps, and probably closer to 14 hours per day. Have More Questions?

Spayed or Neutered, Story Hi, my name is Fido! I am the most handsome big ball of fluff. I have been in foster, but now I am ready to find my forever home. I know my basic commands, but could always use more training. I am a very smart boy who loves some good treats and to use my brain! I need to go to a home with a family who has experience with my breed. Not everyone understands the commitment to dogs like me a working breed with a sharp mind. I love to be active, go for walks, splash in the pool, and spend time with other playful dogs. I can sometimes be weary of new people. No cats, but I may like a new dog sibling. A meet and greet with any dog in the home already would be required. Come in to meet me! We have seen him through many changes, moments of growth, and moments where he needed our help. Fido bonds strongly to his favorite staff and surrounds them with love. Fido is loyal and incredibly intelligent, but he needs family who have worked with his beed before and the challenges his mind can present. He just has to find them first! Dogs are individuals and have personality conflicts, just like us. Play groups do not guarantee that territorial or resource guarding issues will not surface in the home. NET I am no longer able to log in or send out from the epix. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you. With many years of experience in ethical, responsible breeding as members of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America - we adhere to the standards they provide. Our AKC registered dogs are deeply rooted in select German lines, and select American lines with a careful breeding plan we produce puppies, 4 to 6 annual litters, that excel as cherished family pets, working and show dogs. We are also expanding what we train or introduce our pups to, we have plans to bring in canine agility training and conformation. We remain active with our dogs and take great pride in ensuring that our pups are raised in a healthy, well socialized and loving environment. We talk below about some of the specialty areas that our pups have been and will continue to be successful in. You'll find our pups grow to be great protectors, wonderful pets, excellent in the fields of search and rescue, remarkable therapy dogs - it all begins with our puppy training. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Your pup can enjoy this food for up to 24 months before switching to adult food. This is considered one of the best dog foods for Boxer puppies for the money, and for good reason — you get more bang for your buck. This nutritious dog food features natural fish oil, chicken, and eggs, to name just a few healthy ingredients your pooch is sure to enjoy devouring. Pros Specially made for puppies up to 24 months Made with natural fish oil Features whole food ingredients Lacks in fruit and veggie nutrition compared to other options More expensive than other similar options 3. This puppy food has ingredients like L-Carnitine, meant to support healthy bone growth so your Boxer is less likely to develop health problems when they get older. Most importantly, this puppy food for Boxers is high in quality protein, which is necessary for healthy growth physically and mentally as your puppy grows into an adult. Royal Canin Boxer puppy food also features a wavy shape that makes it easy for the Boxer breed to chew and digest. But this is one of the most expensive options on the market, so it may not be financially feasible for some owners. Luckily, there are other high-quality options to choose from that are more affordable. Pros Designed specifically for Boxer puppies Features an easy-to-chew kibble shape Cons One of the most expensive options on the market The package tends to rip, requiring separate containment Can be tough to transition from this kibble to an adult option 4. Diamond Naturals Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon This is a large breed puppy food that, while not specifically made for Boxers, still delivers all the nutrients your Boxer needs as they become an adult. Diamond Naturals puppy formula is an affordable option that your pooch can eat from puppyhood through adulthood, which takes all the guesswork out of proper nutrition. This food features pasture-raised lamb and includes added vitamins and minerals to help ensure well-rounded nutrition throughout all the puppy years. Made in the United States, it has no filler corn, wheat, or artificial preservatives to worry about either. Pros Made for large breed puppies like Boxers Affordable price tag Not meant for adult nutrition Missing quality ingredients that other options feature 5. It features controlled calcium levels to provide proper bone support. This dog food for Boxers is another good option made in the U. Blue Buffalo Life Puppy Dry Food Check Price on Amazon Formulated with real meat, fruits, veggies, and antioxidant-rich ingredients, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for puppies is another great option for Boxers because it provides all the essential nutrients that this larger breed needs, while offering up a host of additional vitamins and nutrients designed to allow your puppy to thrive and feel their best as they age. Included are essential omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which are necessary for a shiny and soft coat of fur. The kibble pieces are tiny, so your Boxer puppy should be able to start eating quickly. Eukanuba Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon This large breed puppy dog food is an excellent choice for Boxer owners because it features plenty of quality animal protein, as well as calcium and phosphorous that puppies need for strong and healthy bones. Containing DHA, Eukanuba can apparently help puppies better focus their minds so training is easier on owners. Once you choose a puppy food to feed your Boxer puppy, you should stick with it until you are ready to switch to adult food. Changing foods is hard on the digestive system and can result in problems like constipation, diarrhea, and discomfort. You should feed your Boxer puppy food designed specifically for puppies until they are at least a year old before you consider feeding them adult dog food. This will help ensure that your pooch gets all the nutrients they need while growing. What to Look For in Puppy Food When choosing a puppy food for your Boxer, the most important thing to consider is quality. In just a few months, your pup will be able to eat adult dog food. The money you spend now on quality food for your Boxer will result in a more well-rounded, happy, and healthy pooch. So, when choosing food for your Boxer puppy, you should look for real meat as the first ingredient. If grains or meal is the first ingredient, your pup may not get the vital nutrients and quality protein they need in order to thrive. Your chosen Boxer puppy food should have ingredients that include real fruits and vegetables, not just powders and concentrates. Avoid foods that include artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives whenever possible. Any food you decide to feed your puppy might not agree with their digestion at first, depending on what they have been fed up to this point. Offer up just a quarter cup of the food you want to feed your puppy to start. If no obvious digestion issues result, you can go ahead and continue feeding the new food to your new Boxer. If you decide to switch to a new brand at any point during puppyhood, mix the new stuff with the old stuff for about a week to make transitioning easy. You should do the same when it comes time to feed your Boxer adult dog food — mix the puppy and adult food for a few days before switching straight to adult food. Once you are sure your dog can handle the adult food, you can switch over completely. Take the list to your vet to gain extra insight and learn which would be the best option for your Boxer puppy. Final Verdict The type of puppy food you decide to feed your Boxer is up to you. Focus on the options that feature whole foods such as real meat instead of meal. There should never be artificial ingredients in play. Hopefully, our reviews of the best dog food for Boxer puppies has made your job easier. Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important. Although Boxers may experience certain health issues that are congenital and beyond our control, environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet, can influence others. Some of the most common health issues faced by Boxers include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Boxers. Food allergies in Boxers may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Boxers are predisposed to various types of cancer, such as brain tumors, mast cell tumors, and lymphoma. This is a heart condition where the heart muscle thickens and enlarges, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. Boxers are genetically predisposed to this condition, which can result in arrhythmia, decreased oxygen delivery to the body, and fluid accumulation in the lungs. Hip dysplasia. Degenerative myelopathy. This is a progressive neurological condition where the spinal cord deteriorates, resulting in hind limb weakness and paralysis. Boxers are one of the breeds that are predisposed to this condition. Aortic stenosis. A heart condition where the aortic valve is narrowed, restricting blood flow and forcing the heart to work harder. Also known as gastric dilation, this is a condition where the stomach twists and traps air, making it difficult for the dog to breathe and leading to shock and death if not treated promptly. Boxers are prone to bloat, which can be caused by overeating, eating too quickly, or drinking large amounts of water after exercise. Feeding Boxers the right amount and type of food can give them the energy they need to stay active and healthy. Feeding Boxers too much food, especially those high in fat and simple carbohydrates, can lead to weight gain and obesity, which can decrease their activity level. This can also lead to health problems such as joint pain and heart disease, which can further limit their activity level. Boxers are high-energy dogs that require a balanced diet high in protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, while fat provides energy for high-intensity activities. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, are a great source of sustained energy for endurance activities. Additionally, providing Boxers with regular exercise and playtime can help them burn off excess energy and maintain a healthy activity level. Boxer Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult Boxers. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior Boxers. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Boxer often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your Boxer dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Boxers can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog Probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: Boxers can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Boxers. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. High-quality protein. Boxers need high-quality protein sources to maintain muscle mass and support their immune system. Look for dog foods that list whole meat sources. Look for dog food containing antioxidants like vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids, which can help support the immune system and may reduce cancer risk. Look for dog foods that contain fruits and vegetables, like blueberries, cranberries, and spinach. Amino acids. Taurine and L-carnitine can support heart function and may help reduce the risk of cardiomyopathy and other heart problems. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support heart health, reduce inflammation associated with hip dysplasia, and improve joint function. Look for dog foods that contain fish oil or flaxseed. Omegas may also support brain health, potentially reducing the risk of brain tumors and supporting neurological function in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. Glucosamine and chondroitin. These ingredients can help support joint health and reduce the risk of hip dysplasia. Look for dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin. Limited fat content. Boxers are prone to bloat, which high-fat diets can exacerbate. Look for dog foods that have moderate fat levels. Limited sodium content. Opt for dog food with lower sodium content to help manage blood pressure and reduce the strain on the heart, which can benefit dogs with aortic stenosis. Small kibble size. Easy-to-digest ingredients, such as fresh food and high-quality protein sources, can also reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues and bloat. Chapter 2: The Reviews. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Our team went out into the field looking for the best canine nutrition products in the world. Our winner for this year is Pupper, which topped our charts in terms of ingredient quality as well as science backed claims. Looking for the best dog food for your boxer? Look no further! In this article, we will discuss the 25 best dog food for boxers in .We will cover a variety of different diets and price points to ensure that you can find the perfect food for your furry friend. Boxers are a unique breed of dog, and they require a special diet in order to stay healthy and happy. We hope that this blog post helps you find the perfect food for your boxer. Boxers are a high energy breed that needs a lot of exercise. They also have a higher than average metabolism which means they need a food that is high in calories and nutrients. The best food for boxers will be one that is designed for active dogs and contains all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy and fit. When looking for the best dog food for boxers, you should look for a food that is high in protein and fat. Boxers need a lot of protein to maintain their muscle mass, and fat is essential for providing them with the energy they need. You should also look for a food that is low in carbs, as boxers can easily become overweight if they eat too many. The best dog food for boxers will also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants to keep their immune system healthy. Do Boxers dogs need Grain Free food? No, Boxers do not need grain free food, but they can benefit from the nutrients found in grains. Grains provide essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep your dog healthy and fit. However, if your dog is allergic to grains, then you should avoid feeding them grain-based foods. How often should I feed my Boxer? You should feed your boxer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This will help to keep their energy levels up and prevent them from becoming overweight. What health issues are boxers prone to having? Boxers are prone to having a number of health issues, including heart disease, hip dysplasia, and cancer. The health issues that Boxers are prone to can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics and poor diet. It is important to feed your Boxer a healthy diet and provide them with plenty of exercise to help prevent these problems. How often should I exercise my boxer? You should exercise your boxer at least twice a day, but preferably three times a day. Exercise is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for Boxers because of their high energy levels. A good way to exercise your Boxer is to take them for a walk or run every day. You can also take them to the park to play fetch or Frisbee. Providing your boxer with plenty of exercise will help them stay healthy and fit, and it will also help to prevent some of the health problems that they are prone to. What is the best way to groom my Boxer? Boxers have short, smooth coats that do not require a lot of grooming. However, you should brush your dog's coat once a week to remove any dirt or debris. You should also trim your dog's nails every few weeks. Boxers are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming, but it is still important to take care of their coats and nails. Regular brushing and nail trimming will help to keep your dog healthy and looking their best. What is the average lifespan of a Boxer? The average lifespan of a Boxer is about 11 years. However, some boxers have been known to live for up to 15 years. The key to prolonging your dog's life is to provide them with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Does a boxer need to eat special dog food? While there are many different types of dog food on the market, boxers do not need to eat a special diet. In fact, most boxers will do just fine on a quality dry food that is designed for active dogs. However, if your boxer is very active or working dog, you may want to consider feeding them a high-performance dog food that is higher in calories and nutrients. This type of food will help them maintain their energy levels and stay in top condition. No matter what type of food you choose, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it meets your boxer's needs. And always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about your dog's diet. With so many different types of dog food available, it can be hard to know which one is best for your boxer. But by keeping these things in mind, you can be sure to choose a food that will help them stay healthy and fit. Now that you know more about what to feed your precious boxer, it's time to elaborate on each of the 25 best dog food for boxers in 1. Pupper Chicken Topper Image courtesy Pupper This chicken recipe from Pupper Fuel is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of boxers. It is made with high-quality ingredients like cage-free chicken, whole grains, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. Pupper Fuel's chicken recipe is our top pick for the best dog food for boxers in because it is made with high quality ingredients. This diet will help your boxer maintain a healthy weight, have plenty of energy, and stay in excellent condition. This diet is made with real venison and bison, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This diet is made with high-quality ingredients like cage-free chicken, whole grains, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. This low-fat recipe is comprised of easy-to-digest all-natural, cage-free chicken, sweet potatoes and green beans that are designed for weight control. This diet is made with real lamb and brown rice, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This easy-to-digest kibble includes nutrient-dense carbohydrates like sweet potato and pumpkin, plus real chicken as the 1 ingredient. Nature's Recipe Puppy Whitening Food includes delicious, high-quality ingredients and is free of corn, wheat, soy protein, or poultry by-product meal! And you may rest confident that your dog won't be eating any artificial flavors or preservatives. This diet is made with real turkey and chicken, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This best dog food for boxers will help your boxer maintain a healthy weight, have plenty of energy, and stay in excellent condition. This diet is made with real chicken and brown rice, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Your dog is a carnivore, which means he thrives on a biologically appropriate diet that includes a variety of different whole animal ingredients. This delectable kibble includes fresh or raw ranch-raised beef, wild boar, Boer goat, and grass-fed lamb. This dish is also made with WholePrey animal ingredients such as organs and bones, providing 85 percent quality animal ingredients. And this dog food features freeze-dried outer layer for wagworthy raw taste and nutrition. This diet is made with real salmon and sweet potatoes, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chicken is the first ingredient in this big dog food aids in the supply of protein, an important nutritional component for your dog's body. This highly digestible dry dog food is designed to promote nutrient absorption and bioavailability. They produce this big dog kibble with certain live probiotics to assist your pet's digestive and immune health. Every portion includes glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, to help support joint health and mobility. This food has been carefully developed to deliver the ideal combination of protein, fat, and nutritious ingredients for performance, training, and hunting dogs. It's brimming with energy to keep your dog on his toes. With no corn, wheat, soy, or vegetable protein among other things , this food is ideal for your furry companion. It promotes your dog's long-term health and performance, as well as his mental processes and vitality. Natural, US farmed chicken produced on a farm. There are no meat or by-product meals available. There are no preservatives used in these products. You can actually see the chicken and veggies in this dish! Dog food for adult dogs. Freshpet thinks that dogs and cats require actual, nutritious food similar to the fresh foods we enjoy. Every meal is freshly prepared in our kitchens, where the fun begins. They start with natural, nutritious ingredients that we softly steam until they retain their natural goodness and provide essential nutrients to dogs and cats in order to allow them to live their best lives. It contains all the necessary nutrients to keep your large breed dog healthy and active, including glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. The kibble is shaped and sized specifically for large breeds, and has a crunchy texture that helps clean your dog's teeth. Applaws dry dog food is made in the USA with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's designed for adult dogs of all breeds and life stages, and contains no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or colors. Caliber Ultra is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, including chicken meal, brown rice, and oatmeal. It also contains omega-fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. It's high in protein, low in fat, and contains no artificial flavors or colors. Green tripe is an excellent source of nutrients for dogs, and is especially rich in probiotics, enzymes, and essential fatty acids. Bison is a lean, nutritious protein that's rich in vitamins and minerals. This food is perfect for dogs who are active and need a high-protein diet to maintain their energy levels. It's also great for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grain. PetKind Tripe Dry is a complete and balanced food that provides all the nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy and happy. Final Thoughts on 25 Best Dog Food for Boxers in We hope our list of the 25 best dog foods for boxers in has helped you narrow down your options and find the right food for your boxer. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian first before making any changes to your dog's diet. When it comes to feeding your boxer, quality is important. But finding the right balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is key to keeping your boxer healthy and happy. We hope you found this list helpful. Related Content.

Louis Mo. Our breeding dogs are AKC registered. Pet puppies will not get AKC papers. They will get copies of parents AKC pedigrees. You can get AKC pal papers once your puppy is spayed or neutered. We don't want to just meet the standard for a license, we want to excel expectations. This is required if you have five females. Please, make sure if you get a puppy in Illinois to ask for a copy of the Kennel License. Our adults are provided with an inside area with toys, beds and excellent vet care. A radio plays for them as well. Most prefer to lay up on their Kuranda beds most of the time with their toys or play with a friend. They get their areas cleaned at a minimum of four times a day and disinfectant is used twice a day. Adults get treats, vitamins, enzymes and are fed daily with a probiotic added for health. We have natural and artificial lighting as well. The dogs even have their own washer and dryer to clean blankets, toys and towels daily. Dogs are walked, given access to the pond when weather allows for swimming, let out to run in the open fields, play fetching and work on obedience training. Favorite thing of most is to find a human and crawl into their laps. Yes, our labs even come into our home and crawl into our chairs and onto the couch. Adults are treated monthly for worms, and provided vaccines as recommended by the vet. Once you see a dog with EIC or CNM you will understand why we test our labs to make sure our puppies will never be affected by these diseases that can be prevented by selective breeding. This area is cleaned and disinfected throughout 24 hours a day. If a puppy has an accident it is cleaned up and then disinfected, this is done so that by the time the puppies are six weeks old they are going outside to potty. Going outside by six weeks old to use the bathroom does help when they leave here at eight weeks old and go to their new homes in house breaking. Security cameras monitor puppies all the time and with this we can see if there is anything that needs to be done to them, while still allowing moms to help with the care of the puppies. Moms need to be able to feel comfortable with the puppies and help teach them the first eight weeks. This also helps make a better puppy when it goes home. We use blankets, towels, toys and other items in with the puppies to entertain them and help them get used to things before they go home. They hear vacuums, tractors, trucks, radio, and other noises as well. In summer time they get swimming pools and if weather is nice they run to the pond for adventures. We provide a large play area with toys to entertain them. They get Kuranda beds to sleep on or play king of the bed on. Puppies are given vaccines, vet care, wormings, vitamins, probiotics daily and fed a good quality feed. We start the weaning process at 3. This is puppy food, goats milk, and probiotic mix that we make for them four times a day. We want to provide you with a happy, healthy puppy and believe that the first eight weeks of life here gets them on the right track. Our puppies are so comfortable they very rarely cry and this is due to the care we provide them. A healthy, comfortable puppy is a happy puppy and that makes them great puppies when they get to go home. We also play with them daily, snuggle with them, and end the day with them fast asleep; before we go to bed all the puppies are sleeping safe inside. Puppies get vet care as needed and a full exam before going home. We also microchip all puppies and pay for the fees so that if they are ever lost someone can find the owners or us. Facility The building that we use for the adults is a new building put into use January .It is a beautiful building that we take great pride in owning, please check out our kennel page for pictures. It is climate controlled and the dogs appreciate it. A lot of time, work and details went into the building to make it safe and comfortable for them to use. We wanted to provide them with a safe and clean environment. They have fresh water, food and outdoor access. It has lighting inside to provide them with artificial lighting as well as outside they have natural sunlight. Every dog gets their own Kuranda bed and their own toys. We buy lots of toys here for the dogs and they appreciate that. We believe that if you are going to breed, that care of the adults is just as major as care of the puppies. Care is not just health testing it is also how the animal lives its daily life. Here at Mabry Labs we can sleep soundly knowing our dogs are safe from any bad weather, healthy and happy. The building we use for the puppies went in in March .It is sectioned off inside for each mother, so that moms feel secure with their babies. This makes it so that mom stays calm and relaxed instead of worrying if another animal is going to get her babies. It is climate controlled. We take moms for walks and playtime away from the pups so they get free time as well. Feed is never out of the bowls, so moms can eat what they want when they want. Probiotics are given daily with vitamins. Blankets, towels and toys are given inside and cleaned daily. All floors are disinfected every time we leave the building. There are mats that have disinfectant in them to make sure that our shoes are disinfected every time we enter. We also use disposable booties for our shoes when we enter puppy play areas. As of we have added on a meet and greet building. This is a secure building set up for puppies to play and interact with people no matter the weather outside. It is heated, cooled, has tv, radio, couch, toys, basically it is a house. My office is in it, so that I can spend time working and playing with the pups. We did in order to have a place that would be easy to keep disinfected between people. As much as we welcome people into our home a home can not be cleaned the same as this building. There is a lot that we do that is not listed on here and I will update more over time. We just wanted to hit some points on this page so that you understand what we do here. Our prices on pups might be a little higher than some breeders, or less than some breeders, yes some breeders do charge more than us and still don't provide half this in their breeding program. Why would we do this some might ask. Plus, people pick us to care for their puppies that first eight weeks and we do the best we can. We have dogs with excellent genetics with show lines and hunt test lines. We have brought in dogs over time to expand our lines and have some of the best that you can find. Most of all we breed our labs for looks, health, train ability and temperament. We have kept back puppies from breedings that we have done over the years to produce some of the most beautiful and smart dogs you will find. We know our lines are great so we have grandparents of our pups here that you can visit with. We've spent a lot of research time putting together our Mabry Labs. We don't just have the genetics, but we have the building to house them comfortably. We put our heart, soul and time into this. If you find breeders charging what we do or more without putting money with the facilities and just buying up dogs even high quality dogs you might want to look elsewhere. As we have high quality genetics and great facilities. If we can do it so can they. Just most don't want a real kennel building as it cost them money and time. Also, a garage with a kennel off the back or side is not a true kennel. We wouldn't want the exhaust fumes near our puppies, would you? Has this upset some other kennels? You bet it has. We hope they soon step up and do what is right for their dogs as we always will here at Mabry Labs. If we are out of reach for a drive to get a puppy here, we are more than willing to help you find a breeder near you that meets our standards. You will always see us growing as everything we get goes into the dogs. Thanks for reading this page and any questions feel free to ask. We look forward to meeting new people along the way and love to stay in touch with our puppies as they grow with their new families. Continue to watch us as we expand on ideas. We always are looking for improvement. A little about us and how we raise our lab puppies. Share 0 Shares The Labrador Retriever breeder is an excellent breed, its beautiful blend of gentle yet energetic and active personality makes the Labrador Retriever a popular breed amongst dog lovers all over the world. And if you are searching for a great Labrador Retriever breeder that would produce the perfect companion for you, then this article is just for you. Here, we list some of the best Labrador Retriever breeders in Illinois. They are reputable breeders that have produced some of the best Labrador Retriever puppies in Illinois. With over 12 years of Labrador breeding experience, they are all about improving and protecting the Labrador Retriever breed and they do this by focusing on the trainability, health, intelligence, temperament, and looks of each Labrador Retriever dog they produce. They breed the 3 recognized colors of the AKC, which are chocolate, yellow and black. Their breeding dogs all hail from championed bloodlines and they are genetically tested and have their hip and elbow dysplasia clearances, heart clearance, and eye clearance before being added to the breed program. Every Labrador Retriever pup is raised in clean and comfortable kennels where they are showered with all the love and attention they require till they leave for their new homes. They are socialized with adults and kids of varying age groups and are introduced to a wide variety of sounds, sights, and textures to help them better adjust to their new families and environments. All Labrador pups are healthy. They would have started the basics of potty and crate training before you take them and they are sold on limited AKC registrations. The pick order for each litter is determined by the order the deposits are received. Puppies can go to their new homes when they are eight weeks of age. Illinois State sales tax will be added to the purchase price. All Puppies are born in our home, and spend their whole time with us inside our home. Puppies come to you with AKC Limited Registration papers, AKC certified pedigree, a letter from us to your veterinarian with all pertinent medical information your veterinarian will want. Puppies are socialized around dogs, other puppies, and humans. Puppies are also introduced to different kinds of sounds. PayPal charges three percent for the transaction. We do not accept personal checks, money orders or bank checks for the balance due. Balance due options are: PayPal. Needs to be transacted at the latest a few days before we are to meet so PayPal verification is received. Credit Card. You can pay using a credit card through the PayPal link below without opening a PayPal account. Cash can be exchanged in person at time of delivery. This price goes towards the total purchase price of your puppy. Deposits are non-refundable unless we do not have the sex you requested in your chosen litter. If that happens, you have the option to take a puppy of the opposite sex if one is available, or you can have your deposit go towards the future litter of your choice, or you can have your deposit fully refunded to you. As you will find with most reputable breeders, the majority of our puppies are sold with Limited AKC registration. We will sell Full Registration under certain circumstances after discussion with the buyer at a higher price. Sales tax must be added for the State of Illinois. All labrador retriever puppies will have their first set of puppy shots, be dewormed every two weeks as is veterinarian recommended , and be well socialized with people, different kinds of sounds, and other dogs while at Bullis Lake. Our puppies come with a Health Guarantee. Puppy picks will be made by pictures posted on the website at 6 weeks of age. Delivery is when the puppies are around 8 weeks of age. Our buyers come from all over the United States. I usually meet buyers at a convenient location near Carbondale or Murphysboro. We prefer not to hold puppies after the delivery date when their litter mates have all gone to their new homes. Many of my buyers have utilized this service. Contact Sunny with www. You can choose whether to pay with your credit card or with your PayPal account. You do not need a PayPal account to pay with your credit card. Since we cannot control food choices and environmental changes with new families, we feel this is the best way to combat allergies, dry skin and growth issues. We feel so strongly about this product that we will increase your Health Guarantee by One Year if you continue NuVet Plus Vitamins on a daily basis for your puppy through the two year period of the Health Guarantee plus the bonus one year extension with NuVet. Does your pet have any of these symptoms? Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers are fun, energetic, and loving dogs. Adding one to your household is an exciting time! It can be hard to know where to begin your journey for a puppy, though. Reputable breeders care about their puppies and the homes to which they are going. Our list of breeders in Illinois can help give you a place to start your search for a healthy, happy Labrador Retriever. The breeder whom you choose should be comfortable answering your questions and allow you to visit the puppies before you hand over any money. Enjoy finding the right puppy for your household! The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Illinois 1. Over 5 acres of wooded land enables the dogs to have access to trees, swimming pools, and obstacle courses where they can run and play. Empress Labradors breeds English-style Labs in three colors: yellow, chocolate, and black. These dogs are bred to have strong pointing abilities without the dilution of their retrieving instincts. They are active in hunting, obedience, and agility while being loving family companions at home. The building that the puppies are born and raised in is just a few years old and gives the dogs a climate-controlled environment. Each puppy is socialized and loved and comes with a 3-year hip health guarantee in addition to vaccinations, AKC papers, and microchipping. Swimming, running, playing, and obedience training make up their days. Each puppy comes with their AKC registration, vaccinations, deworming, and a health statement from a veterinarian. Chocolate, black, and yellow Labs are available here. They are guaranteed healthy after numerous genetic tests and come with OFA certification for their hips and elbows. Since these puppies are in high demand, potential buyers must fill out a survey beforehand. This ensures that you understand the responsibility and commitment that a Labrador puppy requires. Once your survey is accepted, you can then be placed on a waitlist for a pup. These puppies are bred to be highly trainable and make ideal hunters. While they can be active with a desire to work, they are calm and gentle family companions when in the house. This breeder concentrates on creating Labs that guide bird hunts at hunt clubs in Illinois and Wisconsin. Their goal is to create Labs that will be wonderful family companions, hunters, and show dogs, depending on your choice. Over 2 acres of land are home to these dogs, located 30 minutes south of Chicago. All the dogs are genetically tested before breeding to produce the healthiest puppies possible. Labs are available in chocolate, yellow, and black. To get the latest news on when we are expecting, just leave your email to be signed up to our newsletters. Sign Up What Pond Creek Labradors Offers to You If you are looking for beautiful healthy lab puppies that come with a health guarantee, health tested parents and a copy of the pedigree.We work to bring you the most incredible lab puppies that you will find anywhere! We are located in southern IL on 30 acres of land that our Lab family gets to enjoy. There are ponds and creeks where they learn to retrieve and get to swim just for the fun of it. Our labs are a mix of English and American and display the best features of both worlds. Like us on Facebook. Call or text. Our Labs are spoiled rotten with love and care. You can rest assured that you are purchasing the best lab for you and your family that will give you many years of enjoyment. Why Pond Creek Labradors? Best Breeding Practices We love our dogs like family, and when you meet us you will know that's true. We take great pride in breeding our dogs safely and humanely. Great Reputation Pond Creek Labradors has been breeding excellent retrievers with great blood lines for over 6 years. A little more about our puppies At Pond Creek Labradors our puppies will be wormed at two, four, and six weeks. We take care to make sure that they also have their first vaccination at 6 weeks old and will be vet checked before going to their new homes. Copies of the parents testing results will also be available upon request. This is a non Refundable fee unless your color or gender is not available. The Big Day! Pond Creek Labradors was privileged to be ask to help a groom surprise his bride with a gorgeous, champagne puppy on their wedding day. The puppy was a huge hit all the way around and we could not have been more thrilled in helping this happy couple start their new family together. The Family Is Growing! As an update to the beautiful wedding above we were so excited to hear the happy couple had their first baby recently and they were sweet enough to send us this picture. It's so wonderful to see your family grow! As with all of our puppies, we're sad to see them go but knowing they will make such an impact on a person's life makes it a little easier. Stars Are Bred.Congrats Hoover; you are a beautiful Pond Creek boy! We are so proud.She just won her first junior ribbon at ten months old. Way to go Eva! Visit our Facebook page for more pics! Louis, and Indianapolis to name just a few. All of our lab puppies in Chicago and St. Louis for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our Labrador retrievers in St. Louis to ensure that we are only producing healthy Labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well-loved, and well-cared-for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We operate quite a bit differently than the majority of other breeders. We hold a VERY high standard here in regards to health, conformation and temperament. We always have a goal in mind when we perform a breeding. Those breeders are not breeding to better the Labrador breed or produce quality, well-bred lab puppies, they are simply producing puppies to sell and make a profit from. We own mostly females here and we use outside males stud service to cover our females. This gives us a huge advantage when choosing the perfect male for a particular female. Each female will need something different in a mate and using one male will not be sufficient for every female if a breeder is true to themselves and is breeding for a purpose. For example, you have a chocolate female but she is lacking in something whether it be coat, bone, length of leg, too long of loin, carries her tail too high, eye color is too light, etc. She is going to need a specific male to help improve those imperfections. If you have one or even a couple of males on your property and none of them have what your female needs, you are not doing the breed any justice by mating two dogs together that do not compliment each other correctly. Breeding correctly and responsibly can be very complicated, stressful and very expensive. Another important thing to consider is health testing. Do you know the genetics of your female and your male? Is one or the other or maybe both of them carriers of a certain genetic disease? Will you be producing affected lab puppies by mating these two dogs together? Genetic testing is extremely important and necessary! We specialize in producing lab puppies from high quality show lines which are commonly known as the English Labrador Retrievers. We have also been blessed with some exceptionally well bred American Labrador Retrievers which can be referred to as field labs. All of our lab puppies for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our labrador retrievers to ensure that we are only producing healthy labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well loved and well cared for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We would love for you to join our lab puppy family and see for yourself why we are one of the best Labrador breeders in Illinois. We have chocolate, black and yellow puppies available now as well as some older pups! We only produce lab puppies in the 3 recognized colors by the american kennel club and labrador retriever club. We are dedicated to improving and protecting the labrador retriever breed. If you love labrador retrievers and would like to bring one into your family, you have come to the right place! Louis and Chicago are a popular choice for individuals who need companionship, active families, hunters and also for the serious competitor.

This intelligent, loyal and friendly breed can fill diverse roles with ease as a family dog, therapy dog, hunting companion and guide for the blind. Good natured and beautiful, the Golden Retriever is a real crowd pleaser. Temperament Golden Retrievers are known as world-class family dogs whose sweet, puppy-like temperament makes them a joyful playmate to people of all ages. Loyal, trustworthy and eager-to-please, these dogs are typically easy to train. Goldens are part of the Sporting Group, so they are hardworking and need and love! Characteristics Behind the friendly eyes of the Golden Retriever lives an intelligent mind and sweet temperament. Eager to please, Goldens are easy to train and love hearing praise when they master a new skill. Goldens are also high-energy and can perform tasks like waterfowl retrieval for hours on end. Because they were bred to assist on the hunt, keep them well exercised and busy to avoid undesirable behavior. Overall, this smart, outgoing and good-natured breed makes him a trustworthy leader in a number of fields. Golden Retrievers serve important roles such as search-and-rescue dogs, guides for the blind, hunting partners and beloved family dogs. Lifespan 10 to 12 years Colors The Golden Retriever gets his name for his beautiful and lustrous golden-colored coat. Its golden hue can range from dark to light golden, but is always a shade of gold. Shedding Goldens sport a thick, water-repellant double coat. They shed heavily one or two times a year, and moderately on a continuous basis. Brush your Golden Retriever a few times a week to keep shedding under control. Health Golden Retrievers are a generally healthy breed. Screening for elbow and hip dysplasia, eye conditions and certain heart diseases is recommended, however. Without adequate exercise, Goldens are at risk of becoming overweight. You want to select a food that will help him maintain his ideal body condition long-term. Here are a few foods that we recommend for Golden Retrievers. Chicken is the 1st ingredient Added DHA for brain health Contains calcium and phosphorus for bone health Comes in two bag sizes — 15lb and .What to Look For in Puppy Food? When you are searching for the right puppy food, we recommend the food should consist of the ingredients found below. Fish oil supports heart health, reduces itchy and flaky skin, promotes a silky coat, and relieves allergies and joint pain. It can also strengthen their immune system and help fight cancer. Calcium and Phosphorus both aid in joint health and can help prevent joint problems later in life. Chondroitin and glucosamine also aid in joint health. These nutrients are commonly found in protein sources like chicken. So, the best puppy foods for Golden Retrievers will also have good sources of calcium, phosphorous, chondroitin, and glucosamine — whether that be added to the food or derived from protein sources like chicken. Protein and fat help puppies develop their muscles and gain energy. Therefore, the best kinds of puppy food for Golden Retrievers will not only have high protein levels, but also high protein levels from good sources. Important Note Good protein sources are chicken, lamb, salmon, beef, and turkey. It is normal for a lot of dog foods to feature some type of by-product of these protein sources chicken meal, for example. However, the main protein source in the best puppy foods for Golden Retrievers should be the actual meat, not a by-product. It is important for a puppy to start off with good sources of nutrition. Therefore, be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the food you choose. As owners, we want to make sure that our new puppy gets just the right amount food to grow at their pace. We do not want to overfeed or underfeed. Our wish is to make life for them as comfortable as possible. For more detail on this topic check out our article Golden Retriever Feeding Chart. If you use our recommended Purina Pro Plan, see below for the feeding chart. Here are a few of the most important ones. For a long time, boutique grain-free dog foods have been seen as the healthiest option for pups and hounds the world over. Of all dog breeds affected by this sudden and unusual spike, golden retrievers have the most reported cases. The statistics are thought to be skewed slightly by a bias caused by stronger retriever based online communities through which information about risks is shared. More retriever owners are made aware of the risk than owners of other breeds, thus more retrievers get tested, and finally, more are found to have the heart defect. It could, of course, also mean that retrievers are more susceptible to developing the heart disease after all. If food is grain-free, it should make that very clear on the packaging as it has been a selling point for many years, but to make sure, check the small printed ingredients. Commonly used grains are wheat and corn. Budget Dog food is never really all that expensive, but there will be some that are two or three times the price of cheaper options. Settle on one that your dog enjoys, has healthy ingredients, and that you can continue to afford. Breed Specific Breed specific dog foods are great. They give you the peace of mind that comes when you know your golden fluffer is getting exactly the nutrition they need to thrive, but you still need to be cautious. Breed specific foods may still have subpar ingredients, and their mission to provide a generalized nutritional standard for an entire breed omits cases of individual difference. Not all golden retrievers are the same. They can have very different dietary requirements. A really good blend of standard dog food with great ingredients will be just as good for your retriever as the one marketed directly towards them. Age is one of the most important things to consider before settling on a food. Different age retrievers have different nutritional requirements. Too much of it and their bones can grow too quickly which will inevitably lead to mobility problems in later life. This is the easiest stage to feed your dog as you can stick to what they like. Unless your pooch has digestive or weight issues, you can focus on protein-based foods that will help them develop lots of lean muscle. The more lean muscle your dog has, the less pressure there will be on its bones, and the faster it will burn calories during exercise. To keep them in tip-top shape, you may also need to augment their diet with supplements. A young girl and her Golden Retriever in the snow Good Ingredients Not all dog food is created equal. Some are made with nicer, more nutritious ingredients than others. The first major thing you should look out for is meat content. Real meat is preferable but may also be too rich for dogs with sensitive stomachs that are acclimated to a milder diet. Dog foods often also use animal byproducts to provide protein. A mix of byproducts and real meat can be a good pairing. The last animal content will be fats, most commonly chicken fat. Due to their high omega 6 content, animal fats are quite effective at lowering cholesterol, improving heart health, and reducing cancer risks. These veggie extras are typically very good for them. That said, some of the ingredients still being monitored by the FDA include peas, legumes, lentils and potatoes. For dogs, it helps with eye health, reproductive health, digestive health, and heart health. Probiotics are living bacterias that aid in the entire digestive process. Frequently Asked Questions Are dogs allergic to grains? The allergens are actually most likely to be the meat itself. Is wet food better than dry food for dogs? There are benefits to wet food in some circumstances, for example, a dog with few remaining teeth will benefit from a soft lubricated food , but for the most part, nutritionally speaking, they should have relatively similar content. Are golden retrievers more likely to suffer from DCM? They do have a higher report rate, but that may not actually mean they are more likely to get it. Summing Up There you have it, folks. Five of the very best dog foods for golden retrievers doing the rounds at the minute. 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. Take a look at what ingredients are available for the age and size that match your dog. Sensitive Stomach Some dogs will be sensitive to certain ingredients. These sensitivities can range from full-blown allergies to minor stomach irritation. Regardless of the cause, if you notice your dog avoiding his or her food or exhibiting allergic reactions, try a stomach sensitive option. These mixes deliberately avoid ingredients that many dogs find problematic. We cannot go into detail about each of the many Purina Pro Plan dog food varieties. This is a brand-appropriate and popular for retrievers and should be fairly representative of the entire line. Overview Performing an analysis of nutrient content on the dry matter basis of the dog food, Dogfoodadvisor. Compared to more premium brands of dog food, this is still a little high in carbs, but the protein content is right up there with the best of them. This dog food has a good balance of essential nutrients and promotes healthy growth. Chicken Purina loves to hype up the fact that they were the first dog food to make meat the first ingredient. This is significant and should impress you, but maybe not as much as Purina would like it to impress you. The reality is that they weigh in the chicken before cooking. In actuality, chicken accounts for a much lower percentage of the total than Purina would like you to believe. Ground rice Ground rice is generally used as a gluten-free substitute for wheat flour. This is used as a binding agent to hold the kibbles together. Avoiding gluten helps with nutritional value, but obviously, having starches or grains so high up on the list is not ideal and drives up the calories counts. Whole grain wheat Like other grains, wheat has little nutritional value for dogs and contributes to high caloric content. This is an inexpensive filler to add structure and mass to the kibble. Poultry by-product meal Poultry by-product is the dried, ground-up leftovers from poultry slaughterhouse processing. Poultry by-products can vary vastly in quality. On the plus side, poultry by-product contains nearly three times as much protein as fresh poultry. Soybean meal Soybean meal is a by-product of soybean production. This means that the protein is harder for your dog to digest and use. Not all protein sources are created equal. These sorts of additions are designed to cheaply boost the protein amount reported on the label. Whole grain corn More cereal grains here. Corn is going to have the same issues previously discussed with rice and wheat. This is the rubbery substance that gives things like bread their structure. Beef tallow Beef tallow is a fatty by-product of beef rendering. This ingredient really drives up the fat quantity and is considered a lower quality ingredient. Fish meal Like poultry meal, fish meal is a dried meat concentrate. This is essentially ground whole fish and fish cuttings. It usually comes from commercial fishing operations. Barley Of all the grains listed, Barley is actually the least problematic. Barley supplies fiber and other nutrients and can support stable blood sugar levels. Fish oil You may have heard fish oil touted as a wonder ingredient for human nutrition. These fats are essential for healthy bodily function and have a wide array of health benefits in people and in dogs. The addition of fish oil increases the overall health value of Purina Pro Plan. Brans are rich in dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. These contribute to a well-balanced diet. Garlic oil Unfortunately, garlic oil can cut both ways. On the one hand, it has health benefits such as being a rich source of Manganese, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Selenium, and fiber. On the other hand, garlic oil has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs. Dried fermentation products Fermentation products are additives designed to help the animal with digestion. These can help prevent the dangers of bloat. Menadione Menadione is a cheaper form of vitamin K. Menadione is linked with liver toxicity, allergies, and the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells. This ought to be considered a black mark. Purina Pro Plan contains a large amount of meat and is free from many controversial or dangerous ingredients. The mix has some thoughtful, high-quality additions that round out its nutritional profile nicely. There are some obvious cut corners with large amounts of plant-based protein and high volumes of filler grains. Alternatives Purina Pro Plan dog foods are pretty great overall but have some specific drawbacks. Here are a few alternatives to Purina Pro Plan that will have your golden retriever looking and feeling great. Health Extension Grain-Free Chicken and Turkey Dog Food With the first four ingredients being organic deboned chicken, chicken meal, deboned turkey, and turkey meal—Health Extension packs a meaty punch. Purina is so proud of putting the chicken in that number one spot, but the first four slots dedicated to meat products puts them to shame. It also uses healthy grains such as barley, oats, and rye to round out its nutritional profile. This mix has a very high volume of quality protein and will help your dog stay lean and active. This stuff is pricey. I guess buffalo meal is hard to come by. Summary So, should you buy Purina Pro Plan for your golden retriever? Lots of dog owners say yes. In many supermarkets and pet stores, Purina Pro Plan might be the most ideal dog food available. On the other hand, there are dog foods out there that easily beat out Purina. These brands are more expensive and more difficult to find, but they contain a higher concentration of quality ingredients and avoid cheap fillers such as grains and plant-based proteins. The choice of what to feed your golden retriever is up to you. But understanding the basics of dog nutrition and how Purina stacks up will help you make an informed choice to give your pet the happiest, healthiest, and longest life possible. Keep moistened Pro Plan available at all times. Allow your puppy to eat at will until fully weaned 6 - 8 weeks. After weaning, Pro Plan can be fed moistened or dry. For best results, develop a regular feeding schedule such as three small meals a day for younger puppies. You can gradually reduce to one feeding in the morning and one in the evening as your puppy ages. The routine should not vary. As puppies near adulthood, their calorie needs may drop, and your puppy may begin leaving some food in the bowl. Don't misinterpret this as an indication of dislike for the food. Instead, begin offering less so your puppy doesn't overeat and stays in ideal body condition. Nestle Purina research indicates that avoiding overfeeding of puppies may help their development. Maintaining ideal body condition is key to encouraging proper growth in all puppies, especially large breeds. The indicated amounts are only a guideline. If your puppy becomes overweight a reduction of your puppy's daily food intake may be appropriate. You may wish to consult your veterinarian about a weight control program. Feeding for Reproduction: Pro Plan provides the extra nutrition needed by reproducing females in stages of gestation and lactation. Food consumption may vary during gestation, so feed the amount needed to maintain the pregnant female's ideal body condition. Food intake may double or even quadruple during lactation. Provide adequate fresh water in a clean container daily. For your pet's health, see your veterinarian regularly. Transition Instructions Making the Switch to Pro Plan: Although you'll be anxious to see the difference Pro Plan can make in your dog, please allow 7 - 10 days to ease the transition from your dog's current food. Each day, simply feed a little less of the previous food and a little more Pro Plan until you're feeding Pro Plan exclusively. This gradual transition will help avoid dietary upsets.

She may be nervous when she arrives to her new home, but she will adapt quickly. Caring for her is not difficult. She will need a quality puppy food, house training, attention to grooming and exercise. Step 1 Provide her with a quality puppy food. You can find high quality puppy food at pet stores along with the adult food. She needs a balanced food high in protein for her body function and continued growth. Carbohydrates are also important for all that poodle energy. Because poodles are prone to bloat and skin irritation, stay away from foods containing wheat, corn and soy. Avoid byproducts, such as necks, organs, stomach lining, bones and feathers. Kibbles are a good choice to control plaque buildup, but wet puppy food provides additional water, an important nutrient. Both are fine to use separately or together. Feed your toy poodle pup three to four times a day since her stomach is small and cannot handle large amounts of food in one feeding. Step 2 Use a leash for potty training. Poodles are not difficult to housebreak because they are intelligent and easy to train. Begin by putting her on a leash and then taking her to the door. She will soon learn to go to the door when she needs to go out. Get in a habit of taking her to the same spot outside. This intelligent pup will eventually return to the spot on her own. Be consistent and take her out the first thing in the morning, after napping, after each feeding and before bedtime. Don't scold her if she has an accident. If you catch her in the act, take her outside immediately and praise her when she relieves herself. If you decide to use a puppy pad instead of going outdoors, walk her to the pad each time. Accidents are rare, if you are consistent. Step 3 Groom her consistently. Brush your pup every other day. Your poodle's hair can tangle easily and it grows quickly. Clean her ears once a week. Pull out the hair in the ear canal gently and wipe the outer ear with a moistened cloth. Take her to a professional groomer for her regular clippings, ear cleaning and toenail care. Step 4 Provide lots of activity for her. Give her toys for play and toys for chewing. These smart pups need mental stimulus. They love to fetch a ball and chew toys are great for the teething pup. Walk your pup daily as well. Toy poodle puppies are full of energy, but they are prone to low blood sugar, so keep walks short. If you feel she has exercised too long, put a little honey on your finger or in her water. More Articles. The following are some most effective ways to take care of your pup. Nourish the Toy Poodle with Quality Food Dogs require varying amounts of protein, calories, and other nutrients depending on their age. Puppies, adult dogs, and elderly dogs all require different types of dog food. Puppyhood — They require more protein for muscular growth, calories for growth, and calcium for strong bones. If your toy poodle is under the age of 12 months, you should feed it puppy food. Choose a puppy meal formulated specifically for toy dogs. Adulthood — When your dog reaches the age of roughly 12 months, switch to adult dog food. Continue feeding them this food until they are around 7 years old. These foods are nutritionally balanced to meet the dietary requirements of a canine. Senior Age — Switch to a senior food when your adult toy poodle reaches the age of seven. These have a lower concentration of minerals like phosphate, which the kidney has a harder time processing. Use Dry Diet — A complete dry diet or a wet diet of canned food with the addition of mixed biscuits are the two feeding alternatives. Ensure Proper Hydration — Make sure your dog has access to water at all times. Clean the dish every few days and change the water every day. Combing and Clipping — Groom your dog daily through combing and clipping. Groom your dog every day for a few minutes. This will accomplish two goals: you will be able to untangle his hair while also providing him with much-needed attention. Use Hair Brush — A comb or brush offered at a pet store to comb through the snags. Gently brush the teeth of your poodle. Use the wet towel to clean the toothpaste. Here are some essential precautions a poodle owner should learn. Appointment with Vet — Every six months, dogs above the age of seven should see a veterinarian. The veterinarian will look for symptoms of sickness, administer immunizations, and treat parasites and worms. This is because some diseases, such as parvovirus, are caused by viruses that are especially hardy and can cling to your shoes. Your toy poodle puppy is intelligent, active, and eager to learn. Some useful suggestions that can help you take care of a toy poodle puppy are as follows. Balanced Diet Give her a high-quality puppy chow. Avoid foods containing wheat, maize, or soy because poodles are prone to bloat and skin irritation. Potty Training For potty training, use a leash. To begin, put your canine on a leash and walk to the front door. Make it a habit to take her to the same area outside every time. This clever dog will ultimately find her way back to the exact location on her own. Grooming Groom toy poodle puppy regularly. Every other day, give your dog a brushing. The hair on your poodle is prone to tangling and grows swiftly. Once a week, clean her ears. Gently pull the hair out of the ear canal, then wipe the outer ear with a dampened cloth. For regular cuts, ear cleaning, and toenail care, take her to a professional groomer. Provide Entertainment Make sure she has a lot of things to do. Give her things to gnaw on as well as toys to play with. These bright puppies require mental stimulation. They enjoy fetching a ball and chew toys are excellent for teething puppies. You should also take your dog for a daily walk. Toy poodle puppies have a lot of energy, but they can get low blood sugar if you take them on a long walk. Put a little honey in water and give it to your puppy, if you think your pup is exercising too much. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For dogs under the age of 7 years, visit your vet every year. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat your dog for parasites and worms. Dogs that are over the age of 7 years should visit the vet every 6 months. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat for parasites and worms. Responsible dog owners get their pets vaccinated regularly, wormed, and treated for parasites such as fleas. Vaccination is essential even if you carry your toy poodle everywhere, or he rarely goes outside. This is because some infections such as parvovirus are caused by particularly hardy viruses that can attach to your shoes. Therefore, they can still pose a risk to even the most pampered of poodles. Talk with your vet about implanting a microchip in your dog. A microchip will help you track the dog if he gets lost. One of the health problems that toy poodles are prone to in later life is diabetes mellitus sugar diabetes. The hormones associated with estrous heat in the female can trigger diabetes. Therefore, it is wise to get your female toy poodle spayed. Toy poodles often live into their teens. Each time a bitch has a season, it weakens the lining of her womb and makes her more likely to develop a pyometra, which is a potentially life-threatening womb infection. Thus, spaying whilst she is fit and strong removes the possibility of needing emergency surgery in later life when anesthesia can pose a higher risk. Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell. Neutering a male is mainly done to prevent unwanted breeding and to control behavioral issues such as aggression or dominance. Talk with your vet to learn more. Small but resilient, toy poodles often live well into double figures. They do however tend to suffer from health issues as they age. Diabetes, poor teeth and heart disease are most common. These issues, once identified, can often be managed in order to help your pet live a long and active life. If you see any of these symptoms, speak to your vet. Temperament: Self-confident, friendly, and intelligent. Toy Poodle Appearance The only real difference between a toy Poodle and a standard Poodle is their height and weight. They share the same coat colorings, markings, behaviors as a standard-sized Poodle. The toy in their name implies that they are smaller than 10 inches and were created for companionship. This pooch appears squarely built and well proportioned. They will have black noses with very dark and dazzling eyes. Size Males should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Females should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Coat and Colors They come in a variety of colors so it can be hard to choose just one! These colors range from blues, grays, browns, creams, and other shades in between. However the most popular is the red toy Poodle and the black toy Poodle. As for their coat there is virtually no shedding — it is amazing for people who suffer from allergies. However, it will require more time and effort than other dog breeds. Without proper care their coat is prone to matting that can cause painful infections. This coat should be groomed every 4- 6 weeks. Poodles come in 3 different sizes and the toy size is the smallest of them all. They excel at agility and obedience competitions. Their curly coat is virtually non-shedding and great for people who suffer from allergies. Royalty liked to use them as warmers because of their fluffy coat. Toy Poodle Personality and Temperament The toy Poodle has a superb personality which explains their immense popularity. They are very adaptable and can thrive in an urban environment if given daily walks. If you are looking for a dog to have in your apartment this is a good pick as long as they still get outdoor exercise. Toy Poodles are companion dogs and will require companionship from you. If they are left alone for long periods of time they could develop separation anxiety. This is not a breed that is suitable to be left alone the entire day and will get anxious and possibly destructive if this happens. They are inquisitive and very trainable — they are eager to please and love working alongside humans. Due to their low aggression levels, they are a safe and curious breed to have around others. Their ability to socialize with other animals humans and children relates to their friendly nature. However, since they are very small, they could easily be hurt by another animal or young child. Unfortunately, they are, at times, too eager to sound the alarm, and their endless barking can quickly become a problem for both owners and neighbors alike. Thankfully, the toy poodle is highly intelligent, and with a little work and training, you should be able to rid your pooch of this annoying trait. This is a naturally athletic and active dog that will require lots of daily physical and mental stimulation. Just because they are a small dog it does not mean that they will like to lounge and lay on the couch all day. They have been bred to be more of a companion animal but they still yearn for exercise. Although the toy Poodle is an exceptionally friendly and loving breed, it is not recommended to place them in a household with small children due to their fragility. However, they do make excellent family dogs in households with older children. Caring for a Toy Poodle The toy Poodle will make a great companion or family dog for anyone that wants an intelligent and agile smaller dog. They will be a very rewarding and affectionate dog if you are willing to provide them with physical and mental challenges. When they are not challenged they can get destructive. Professional grooming will be required every couple of weeks and it is a very important part of owning a Poodle. Brushing will also have to be done daily to keep it from matting. As long as their requirements are met they should fit perfectly in a family with older children. Exercise Requirements Although toy Poodles do enjoy being athletic it is important to keep their small size in mind. Their size can make them prone to injuries if an owner is not careful. Around an hour of daily exercise is enough to keep them happy. You can keep this pooch even if you only have a small year. A fun exercise they would enjoy is being in water. They have a retrieving background so the water is a happy place for them. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Grooming and Shedding One of the main reasons someone might be attracted to a Poodle is their minimal shedding allergy-friendly coat. However, this does come at a cost and this coat will require more clipping and maintenance than many other dogs. You should get accustomed to daily brushing and combing of their curly coat to keep it from matting. It is common for toy Poodle owners to keep their dogs coat short to save some time combing. If you are unfamiliar with grooming a dog with a coat like this you should set up a monthly appointment with your groomer. When feeding them and monitoring their growth you should keep in mind that males should be between pounds and females should be between pounds. You should be cautious with table scraps and treats since this could lead to obesity. A high-quality ingredient dog food should be chosen for your toy Poodle. Since they are a small and toy breed, they should be given kibble that is made especially for them. This kibble will likely have less fat and carbohydrates than the food you would feed a larger breed. However, there are some health problems that they can be predisposed to: Hip dysplasia. Low History of the Toy Poodle The poodle was bred to be a duck hunting dog in Germany over years ago, where its thick curly coat came in handy to protect against the cold. Their athletic skills and eagerness to please made them perfect retrievers. The exaggerated show cut that poodles are often recognized for today stemmed from their historic days of retrieving. Their chest, hips, and leg joints would still be covered with curly hair in rounded tufts. Poodles have three variations—standard, miniature, and toy. The standard poodle is the oldest of these varieties and the miniature and toy variations were eventually created for those who desired smaller dogs. Despite their small size, toy and miniature poodles were working dogs. Toy poodles, specifically, have historically been desired for circuses due to their high intelligence and athleticism. The toy poodle was first bred in the early 20th century as a companion dog, especially great for those living in apartments or smaller spaces. The poodle was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in and the Poodle Club of America was founded ten years later. Today, poodles are exceedingly popular among pet owners, especially those in France. In fact, the poodle is the national dog of France. In particular, toy poodles are considered the easiest of the bunch, due to their small size—acts like grooming and exercise will take no time at all thanks to their petite frame. Exercise While larger standard poodles need plenty of room and exercise to thrive, smaller toy poodles do not. However, they are still an active breed and love going for daily walks with their loved ones. They also love swimming, retrieving, and performing tricks to burn off energy. If their coat develops mats, toy poodles may need to be shaved quite short to give their hair a chance to grow back nicely. Fine-toothed combs with sturdy teeth are great options to keep in your toy poodle grooming kit —they get the job done well without causing a significant amount of discomfort for the dog. Owners may opt to do the trimming themselves with a pair of clippers or head to a pro every six weeks for a cut, bath, and nail trim. Training Toy poodles are an intelligent breed and absolutely love to please their owner. As active and graceful dogs, they excel at sporting activities. This may come as a shock to those who believe poodles are prissy or feminine—a common misconception. Toy poodles are great at learning and performing tricks. Always make sure to get your toy poodle from a reputable breeder who tests their puppies for common health problems and can provide you with medical paperwork before you commit. Some health problems to watch out for in toy poodles include:. White Apricot In addition to theses stunning block colors, Toy Poodles have been known to showcase pretty two-tone patterns. Combinations include black and apricot, black and tan the most beautiful in our opinion! Other Grooming Considerations In addition to their fur, you also need to pay attention to their nails and teeth. Dental care: because of their small size, Toy Poodles naturally have a smaller mouth. These are renown for developing problems such as overcrowding. You should also book your pooch for frequent dental checks at your registered vet. There are loads of things that make the Toy Poodle great! They have a winning combination of intelligence and the drive to please their owners, which means dog training comes naturally to them. Fun Fact: Poodles are unofficially ranked second after Border Collies for their intelligence. Toy Poodles are best described as tiny athletes. They also have a keen aptitude for obstacle courses! Last but not least, Toy Poodles tend to show kindness to strangers. Their ability to warm to humans makes them both amazing companions and therapy dogs. Despite being good with strangers, Toy Poodles also make excellent watchdogs. Their lack of aggression makes them beautiful family dogs too. Toy Poodles are great with kids! Otherwise, your Toy Poodle could get hurt. Their smaller size means they need less exercise and space to run around. They tend to be equally happy as lap dogs, as they are playing outside. Activities such as indoor games, short walks, etc. They get bored and potentially destructive. Unfortunately, Poodles bark a lot. Well, put simply, this is wrong. Toy Poodles are prone to timid and nervous behavior and because of this, they need a pack leader, and that, my friend, is you. So, like any other dog, you need to dedicate both time and effort into training them. Are Toy Poodles Healthy Dogs? Toy Poodles are capable of developing genetic health problems. Be sure to swot up and familiarize yourself with ailments associated with Poodles more generally, because the Toy Poodle is usually more susceptible to these diseases. Knowledge is power. Sadly, this can result in extensive and severe bouts of bleeding, even from a minor cut. This disease comes in three types uncreatively described as Type one, Type two, and Type three. Type one is the mildest, and three is the most serious. You might not recognize the symptoms unless its a more severe case. Things to look out for: Unexplained bleeding from either their mouth or nose. Bloody or dark tarry poops Blood in their urine Anemia Excessive bleeding Hemophilia : this condition makes it hard for the blood clot, and can cause severe bleeding even via a slight injury. Other Common Diseases: Epilepsy: this disease causes recurring seizures. Dogs suffering from this affliction can experience anything from infrequent and mild seizures to severe fits. Sometimes these occur relatively regularly and for long periods of time! Deafness: the complete or partial loss of their hearing. Diabetes: this is very similar to the diabetes humans suffer from. Unfortunately, both these conditions stop the muscles and organs from transforming glucose into energy. This can result in excessive glucose levels in the blood, AKA hyperglycemia. This results in less blood entering their central circulation via the aorta. This means the left side of the heart has to work harder. The larger the defect, the larger the left side enlarges. This increases the likelihood of congestive heart failure, and ultimately death! This triggers a gradual deterioration in the bone. He might need surgery, so be sure to take him to the vet ASAP! Sebaceous Adenitis: a complaint where the sebaceous glands become inflamed. This can result in which hair loss and other skin problems. A skin biopsy is necessary to diagnose this ailment. Hip Dysplasia : an illness that describes a malformation in the ball and socket of the hip bone. This can result in reduced vision, and sometimes complete blindness. Cataracts: this refers to the cloudiness of the eye lens. This stops light transmitting to the retina, and when left untreated, can cause complete blindness. Glaucoma: this is an issue where pressure on the eye causes poor fluid drainage. This can result in blindness. Top Tip: Many of these conditions are difficult to detect in new pups. Therefore, finding a reputable breeder is of paramount importance! There are a few things you should be aware of before you purchase a pup. Be warned. You need to find a Toy Poodle breeder who prides themselves on their honesty. They should always provide independent certification that proves the parents and grandparents have been screened for common abnormalities associated with the breed. Only then can you be sure your pup comes from healthy stock. A buyer should get copies of the genetic tests including: The all-clear for their knees by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. A reputable breeder will always be more concerned about placing pups in good homes than making money. They should be happy to answer all your questions about their health and temperament. If you get the impression they want to offload the pups as soon as possible, treat them with distrust and skepticism. Ask for the weight of your puppy before you commit to buying him. Roughly, whatever he weighs at 4 months, you can double. This will give you an approximate adult weight for him. However, the younger he is, the less accurate the forecast. Choose a breeder who can prove both parents are Toy Poodles this naturally increases the likelihood of getting a Toy Poodle pup. They should pride themselves on their ethical standards of breeding and advertising. What About the Cost? There are a few factors that influence the price of a Toy Poodle pup: sex, the prestige of the parents, whether the puppy is a potential show dog, etc. So, budget for around a grand. For this price, you should also get the relevant papers we just spoke about. Proper care for the Poodle will involve many aspects that will all work in combination to maintain excellent health and promote learning and good behavioral habits. It is important to establish a foundation of proper care during the puppy stage that will carry over throughout the Poodle's life. We will discuss: The items that you should have to care for a Poodle puppy Details on the 5 most important tips for proper care - Feeding, house training, offering the right amount of exercise, grooming and how to offer a healthy environment. Toy Poodles and Mini's will be puppies for the 1st year; standards mature at a somewhat slower rate and are considered to be puppies until the age of 2 years old. During this time, much care is needed for both physical growth and mental development. Bringing your new Poodle home is not as simple as just picking up your new family member from the breeder. Good care involves planning ahead. It helps to have all needed items well in advance so that you can focus on the puppy without having to rush out for a needed supply items. One of the most important elements to be aware of is that no matter what the puppy has been fed since he or she began eating solid food, you should have the exact same brand on hand. Quickly switching foods can cause upset stomach and other issues…and in the case of a puppy it can be the cause of hypoglycemia. A slow change must be made. If you opt to go with a different brand or to home cook, have enough of the 'old' food on hand for several weeks, as well as the 'new' so that that you can make gradual changeover. A quality dog bed — A new puppy will feel stress going to even the best of new homes. This is why making sure that you have a nice, soft, comfortable dog bed is important. You should show your Poodle that this is the area in which he can rest, sleep or just get away from noise when things seem to overwhelming. If you will be leaving your puppy home alone during the day, it is best to have the bed placed in the area where he will be staying. A gated off section of a room or inside a canine playpen works well. The entrance to this can be left open when you are home with your puppy can of course, closed off when you are away. In this way, the puppy will become accustomed to the area. If you will be home with your puppy, place this in the corner of room that is frequently used but not chaotic. Dogs like to have their own quiet spot, but not feel isolated. Walking and ID accessories — Along with a retractable leash and a collar for ID purposes, it is highly recommended to have a harness for your puppy. Toy Poodles no matter what the age and all Mini and Standard puppies should have on a harness and not a collar when they are on a leash. When a leash is connected to a dog collar, this can create too much tension on the neck, which can cause collapsed trachea. The trachea windpipe is protected by rings of cartilage…when this happens, those rings collapse in, causing pain and breathing problems. These can be purchased at a pet supply store and come in many unique and interesting designs so that your Poodle always looks stylish. If you are not sure which harness would be best for your Poodle puppy, you may wish to look to both 'Accessories' and 'Clothing- Harness' in the Poodle Specialty Shoppe. A Car Safety Seat - Long ago cars did not even have seat belts for humans. But now, of course, we all know how many lives they save. The very same is true for dogs. Even if you are a conscientious driver, you cannot be in control of those who are driving near you. Be sure to secure your Poodle into a canine car safety seat. All it takes is 1 second of you having to quickly brake for your Poodle to go sliding off of the seat, completely unprotected. These are also great for dogs that are prone to car sickness. A raised booster seat will assist a puppy in being able to look out of the window which reduces motion sickness. However, choosing high quality toys that can stand up to continual chewing and hold a puppy's interest is better. Puppies are full of energy and filled with curiosity; having a good supply of toys at all times will be very helpful. Puppies that are in the teething phase will be experiencing discomfort and teething toys will help to sooth sore gums and offer a chewing outlet See also: Poodle teething Grooming Supplies - Poodle care certainly involves proper grooming. This includes nails, dewclaws, bathes, drying, wrapping, trimming, clipping and topknots. See also: Bathing a Poodle Clothes - Particularly for tiny toy Poodles, protection against the elements should be implemented as needed. During cold, icy winters the use of canine shoes or paw wax helps protect paw pads from ice melt chemicals and aids with traction. A sweater or cute vest can keep a small Poodle puppy from becoming chilled. During hot months, shoes help protect sensitive paws from hot surfaces. Bowls - Plastic bowls often contain heavy dyes that can cause staining on a Poodle's coat. In addition, tiny scratches that easily develop in plastic bowls can also harbor dangerous bacteria. It is best to use stainless steel or ceramic bowls for both food and water. Dishes should shallow so that a puppy can easily reach both food and water without bumping their heads or straining to reach. Toys and Mini's may like raised bowls. However, Standards - who are prone to bloat- should only eat and drink from bowls that are at floor level. Free feed until 3 months old leaving food out at all times and then give your puppy 3 meals per day plus healthy snacks. Please choose your food wisely; cheaper foods with fillers will not offer the proper nutrition needed to aid with the rapid growth that is associated with the puppy phase. You will find that if you reserve snacks and treats as rewards for training, housebreaking and command training will go smoother. Read more: Feeding a Poodle 2- Start house training right away, keeping in mind that it is your commitment to the process that will bring about success. Generally, housebreaking takes 2 to 3 months. If your Poodle puppy will be expected to use an outdoor area, do not focus too much on indoor training when the pup is home along, since it is difficult for puppies to learn 2 different methods. Do keep in mind that young puppies should not be over-exercised since it can interfere with growth plate development; however a daily 20 to 30 minute per walk is perfect. Walks allow a puppy to release pent up energy, it expands their view of the world and is a good staring point for socialization techniques and learning proper heeling. Poodles are generally very active dogs. Aside from a walk each day, this breed loves to run , jump and show off their agility capabilities. Playing catch, Frisbee or training your Poodle to jump through hoops will keep them in good health, both physically and mentally. See also: Poodle Exercise Requirements 4- Begin a routine of grooming and care. While many puppies will balk at the idea of being brushed or having teeth cleaned, doing these tasks on a regular basis allows a puppy to become accustomed to being touched and taken care of. Taking care of the teeth during the puppy stage is important since dental hygiene will affect the adult teeth that have not yet erupted. Read more: Poodle dental care 5- Limit stress, focus on fun. One of the most important elements of Poodle care is to offer a loving, safe environment. Puppies and dogs are sensitive to their owner's moods and the atmosphere of the house in general. Puppies can become easily stressed in noisy, chaotic homes. Puppies should be given a designated area to retreat and rest if feeling overwhelmed. Often, a gated off area that is secured when a pup is home alone, but the entrance is open when owners are home works best. Speak to your pup in a pleasant voice and remember that positive reinforcement for good behavior works much better than scolding for bad behavior. Take time to puppy proof the home, clearing the floors of any small items and stowing away shoes and other objects to higher ground. This should be done before bringing a puppy home but also on a regular basis. See also: What it means when a Poodle puppy shakes - If a Poodle is suddenly shivering, you'll want to look to these top reasons. Poodle Winter Care - Everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle during the wintertime. Other Articles: Apricot Poodles - This is a super popular coat color. Details and photos. Black Poodles - Another gorgeous color. Poodle tear stains - Putting to rest the old myths on what works. A list of the most effective at-home treatments to remove stubborn stains. Poodle hair tangles - Due to the nature of the curly coat, tangles are not uncommon yet should be removed as soon as possible with a method that does not affect hair growth. Are You a Member Yet? When you sign up to become a Member of the site, this allows you to receive a friendly notice when new pages of information have been added. Always something to help keep your Poodle happy and healthy. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us.