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Top German Shepherds off championship bloodlines Limerick German Shepherd Age: 3 months 1 Male, 1 Female We are delighted to offer for sale our beautiful, intelligent, well-bred German Shepherd puppies. Born just a few months ago, these alert pups are already showing signs of their brilliant lineage. We have two female and one male puppy, all boasting a striking black and tan coat. Their father, a jet-black German Shepherd with a unique white Mallon streak, is a brilliant guard dog. His lineage includes top protectors from Ireland, England, and Germany, with a sire sheet available for viewing. He also boasts a lineage of show dogs. The mother, a beautiful black and tan German Shepherd, is not only intelligent but also a wonderful guard dog. She too comes from a champion show dog lineage. Both parents are our family pets and can be seen upon your visit. These puppies have been vet checked, wormed, and vaccinated. We are looking for good homes only, preferably with people who have experience with German Shepherds. Located in Limerick. Mother in last picture. Slight to No Slopes! We find that the West German lines are the best dog suited for family, companion, working, obedience and protection, because they are very balanced in their drives. Litters are listed with all detailed info. Only the finest German Shepherd Puppies in Ontario with outstanding pedigrees. See if we have an adult dog for sale, or maybe a retiree to take home and love forever. The Top health Guarantee in Canada. THE best breeding stock and bloodlines in the World. Germany, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The best a consumer can look for and ask for. We are a smaller German Shepherd breeder. We produce Quality not quantity. We breed very Strong and healthy dogs. Our Dogs have very stable temperaments. We have German Shepherd Puppies from world champion bloodlines, suitable for family companions, for show or sporting, agility and protection. We aim for perfection and a very rich black and red coat. We are ranked one of the top German Shepherd Breeders in Ontario. Our breeding stock consist of only the finest German bloodlines. Meaning these dogs are very stable, calm, yet driven, easy to live with in the house, easy to train, willing to please and ready to defend. All around very versatile. These German Shepherds have a very correct, harmonious and balanced structure resulting in a smooth, efficient, beautiful gait and very high endurance. Temperament, health, working ability, brains and looks. This is my goal, a dog that has it all. I look for correct but functional conformation, with a very important key, Very Stable Nerves!

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

Rottweilers In general, teacup and toy dogs, as well as short-muzzle breeds also known as brachycephalic breeds are more prone to cherry eye. Most affected dogs will have their first cherry eye appear under two years old, although the condition can occur in one or both eyes at any age. The condition is not contagious to people or other animals. Symptoms of cherry eye in dogs The main symptom of cherry eye in dogs is the swollen and protruding third eyelid resembling a cherry pit. In some cases, the eye itself will seem red, itchy, or swollen. Dogs with cherry eye may produce a thick mucus discharge from the eye. Other conditions, such as a foreign body, eye infections, or trauma to the eye, can also cause similar symptoms. Dogs with cherry eye may give themselves corneal scratches if their eye is itchy and they are scratching their face with their paws or objects around the house. Treatment for cherry eye in dogs Cherry eye is usually cured with surgery. However, in more severe cases where the dog has had the condition for a long time or the tear gland is no longer functional, or when the surgical replacement procedure described above has been done previously and has failed, the gland might need to be removed. The chances for full recovery are highest if the procedure is performed as soon as the condition occurs before the gland becomes enlarged or inflamed. If left untreated, cherry eye can cause eye infections and chronic dry eye also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS. However, the cost to treat cherry eye in dogs will depend on multiple factors, including how severely the eye is affected, the type of procedure, and the doctor performing it. Personal factors can also contribute to the cost of surgery. For instance, larger dogs require more anesthesia, which often results in an increase in price. If the condition has affected both eyes, the price will be higher. Pro Tip: Pet insurance can help cover the costs of medication and surgery for cherry eye. Recovery and prognosis After the surgery, your pet will need to wear a cone, also known as an Elizabethan collar or e-collar, to prevent them from rubbing their eye and disrupting the stitches. Vets usually also prescribe eye drops or medicated eye ointments, as well as oral antibiotics to keep the eye moist, prevent infections, and ensure that the eye heals properly. If the tear gland is surgically removed or if surgical treatment is not an option, your dog will likely need to use eye drops to keep the eye moist and healthy for the rest of their life. When it comes to recovery after surgery, the prognosis is very good. There might be inflammation for a week or two before the eye regains its normal appearance. Allow your dog to rest for a few days after the procedure and avoid swimming or bathing for about two weeks. It should be noted that dogs who are genetically predisposed to cherry eye are more likely to have a relapse. However, it is possible to prevent additional problems associated with this condition such as infections and dry eye by keeping the eye moist with adequate eye drops and treating any eye issues that may appear at the earliest opportunity. Key Takeaways Cherry eye, i. The condition can affect any dog but is especially common in toy and teacup breeds, as well as dogs with short muzzles. The list of breeds prone to cherry eye includes Pugs, Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Rottweilers, etc. Most dogs with cherry eye require surgery in order to put the gland back in place. Be sure to get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible if you think your four-legged friend has any eye problems, including cherry eye. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Actually, it can be rather worrying for their owners. Photo by Mia Anderson on Unsplash What does cherry eye in puppies look like? Okay, get ready for a visual. It can also look like the corner of the eye is bulging. Cherry eye makes itself quite visible in puppies, although sometimes it will start off small. This is the third eyelid protruding from the tear duct. Dry eyes — these are caused by a lack of tear production A discharge around the eye Excessive blinking Lots of pawing and scratching at the eye due to irritation What causes cherry eye? When this happens the gland causes the third eyelid to protrude and look like a red blob. Breed can be a contributing factor for cherry eye in puppies Some types of dogs such as Bulldogs and Spaniels seem to suffer more with cherry eye due to their skull, eye socket shape or ligaments in the eye, which may be weaker. Puppies are more susceptible to cherry eye than adult dogs Many cases of cherry eye occur in puppies under a year of age, poor little things. This is when the ligaments on the third eyelid are weakest, so the nicatins gland is able to push it out. Cherry eye in puppies can be caused by scratching or pawing If your puppy rubs or paws at their eyes, this can damage the nicatins gland and cause swelling that ends up in cherry eye. Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash How can I help puppy swollen eyes? This will let you see whether the swelling is getting better or worse, and will give you a sign of what to do next. Check their eye in case there is anything stuck in it. Sometimes foreign things like grass seeds can cause a swollen eye, but you can carefully remove this at home. Is your puppy tired and has a bloodshot eye? Yep, not the same as cherry eye. Puppies need to sleep a lot! Let your puppy get some rest and take things easy. Remove any collars or harnesses that your puppy wears indoors so that they can relax. Nothing more annoying than a clinking collar every time you move. Avoid wrestling-type physical games or playing with other dogs until the swelling has gone down. You can use a saline wash to clean the swollen eye, but make sure to use plenty of treats so that your puppy feels as comfortable as possible. A puppy swollen eye can be caused by an allergic reaction. Using an appropriate dose of antihistamine is suggested for this. Photo by Kindred Hues Photography on Unsplash Your vet will be the best person to tell you whether a home treatment, like the ones we suggested above, are suitable or not. They may also discuss surgery with you to prevent the cherry eye from recurring or want to refer you to a dog ophthalmologist. If your puppy is experiencing any other problems like cloudy eyes, watery eyes, scratching or itching at their ears then we hope our guides help you learn a bit more about them. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Mastiffs Terriers In general, breeds with shorter muzzles many of whom have brachycephalic syndrome as well as toy breeds and teacup dogs tend to be more likely to experience cherry eye than their longer-nosed, full-sized counterparts. And young dogs—puppies under a year old—are most susceptible as well. Early cherry eye in dogs is fairly easy to spot, Vygantas says. This bulge is typically in the corner nearest the nose and similar in shape and color to a cherry pit, hence the nickname. The condition can occur in one or both eyes. The good news is early-stage cherry eye in dogs isn't painful. In fact, your pup probably won't even know something is wrong. But over time, it can make your dog prone to dry eye and infections , so it shouldn't be ignored. The tear gland in that third eyelid is responsible for about 33 to 66 percent of your dog's overall tear production. When prolapse occurs, the tear duct doesn't function normally. For healthy eyes and overall comfort, it's critical that this gland is preserved and reattached to its proper place. If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, it's important to see your vet as soon as possible. While not a medical emergency, the condition can cause health concerns over time. Left untreated, cherry eye can result in damage to the tear duct and cause chronic dry eye. The gland may also become more swollen over time and restrict blood flow. As swelling makes your dog more uncomfortable, he'll be tempted to scratch or paw at the eye, increasing the likelihood of damage and infection. At your initial vet visit, your veterinarian might prescribe dog-safe eye drops for cherry eye to reduce inflammation. These drops can also provide much-needed moisture for comfort and eye health. But eye drops are not a cure for cherry eye. Usually, the vet-recommended treatment for cherry eye in dogs is surgery to preserve the eyelid. Your vet should be able to preserve and correctly reposition the tear gland with a simple procedure. While it might be tempting to try and avoid surgery, when it comes to cherry eye, ointment and topical treatments won't address the root problem and your pup will likely need surgery later anyway. According to Vygantas, once the gland is out of position, it's unlikely to resolve itself without surgery. Still, even minor surgery can be stress-inducing as a pet owner. But rest assured: cherry eye surgery recovery is typically short and sweet. In fact, most pups are back to normal within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, your pup will have a follow-up appointment or two with her vet to check the surgical site. She'll also need to wear an e-collar aka the cone of shame during recovery to keep her eye safe from scratching, pawing, and infection. Cherry eye is not life-threatening, and the vast majority of dogs go on to live full lives with healthy eyes. If you're wondering if you should get a dog who has cherry eye—either from a rescue or a breeder—there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it's important to remember cherry eye is not contagious, so it poses no risk to you or other pets. However, surgical treatment of cherry eye can be expensive. Costs range from several hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the breed, your location, and your veterinarian's rates for surgical procedures. And, since as many as 45 percent of dogs that experience cherry eye in one eye will eventually have it in the other, you could very well end up doubling your expenses. The good news is, the simple cherry eye surgery should solve the problem for good. The most common complication of this surgery is the breakdown of the suture line and subsequent re-prolapse of the gland," Vygantas explains. If the suture does fail, another surgery is likely necessary. Still, Vygantas stresses that the condition is not an indicator of poor health or of other underlying conditions. If your pup has cherry eye, there's no reason she can't enjoy a long, happy, healthy life post-treatment. Is it Possible to Prevent Cherry Eye? Unfortunately, there's no way to keep your dog from developing cherry eye. But there are ways to give your pup the best chance at good health. Feed her a good diet and provide lots of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure she stays up-to-date on all preventative care and vaccinations , and reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about your pup's eye health. Was this page helpful?

Date Received: Purchase Price: The Buyer agrees to provide life-long commitment, comfortable environment, prompt medical attention, proper grooming and responsible care for this puppy. Proper nutrition is to be provided at regular intervals, and fresh clean water available at all times. The Buyer promises to provide a safe environment for the dog, and never allow the dog to roam freely without proper fencing or supervision. The Buyer will not leave the puppy alone for more than 8 hours at a time on a regular basis. One stud service will be considered completed once the Bitch gives birth to at least three puppies, each living to 60 days. The Seller will pay for all expenses associated with stud service including but not limited to transportation, collection, preservation, and shipment of semen. The Buyer agrees to maintain communication with the Seller at all times, and provide information in regards to sperm count and readiness of the dog to breed. No guarantee is given to fertility or ability to produce offspring. Buyer agrees to purchase pet health insurance for this puppy. Seller recommends Trupanion or Nationwide. Buyer agrees to continue the exact diet the puppy was started on for a minimum of three months after leaving the Seller. Buyer understands that switching the diet during the transitional period make cause significant gastrointestinal distress. Any issue to with appetite, obtaining the proper food, or interest in switching the diet must be discussed with and approved by the Seller. The Buyer must inform the Seller of the results of the veterinary exam within 24 hours of the veterinary exam via email. Failure to do so in the time frame stated above will result in termination of this agreement. The puppy is warranted for one year against fatal and life altering congenital disease including kidney, heart, pancreas, spine, and liver problems. Conditions must be of a severe, life threatening nature. The puppy must show defect within one year of age. The Seller must be notified of the problem within 48 hours of diagnosis. The Buyer must produce reports from two licensed veterinarians from two unassociated veterinarian clinics. These reports must reach the same diagnosis and conclusion. The Buyer must obtain all veterinarian records and forward to the Seller within 48 hours of the first diagnosis. The Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller within ten days of report of first diagnosis. The affected puppy must be in good condition, other than the specified problem. The Buyer is responsible for all shipping costs, including the shipping of the affected puppy back to the Seller as well as shipping costs of sending a replacement puppy as needed. If the puppy should die within the one year warranty, the Buyer is required to have an autopsy performed to determine cause of death. No replacement will be given if the affected puppy dies and the Buyer does not perform an autopsy, or if the autopsy does not show any congenital disease. If an autopsy is performed on a puppy who died before one year old, and confirms cause of death is congenitally genetic then the Seller will replace the puppy within one year of the veterinary report with a puppy or equal or lesser value. The replacement puppy will be chosen by the Seller. No money refunds will be given. The Seller is not responsible for veterinary costs and will not pay any medical bills. Once the puppy is paid for and living with the Buyer, the Buyer is fully responsible for all Veterinary bills. The puppy has received vaccinations for parvovirus and distemper and is warranted against parvovirus and distemper for 48 hours upon receiving the puppy. This contract does not cover the health conditions which are considered very common to this specific breed, and in even the best bred French Bulldogs. These conditions which are not life threatening and in many cases are easily and inexpensively treated include ear infection, eye infection, skin infection, cherry eye, entropion or ectropion eyelids, loose hips, loose knees, elongated soft palate, hypoplastic trachea, stenotic nares, inverted tails and corkscrew tails, allergies, fertility issues, parasitic infection, fungal infection, or bacterial infection, respiratory infection, undescended testicles, uneven bite, localized demodex, coccidiosis, kennel cough, giardia, and diarrhea. Many of the above listed conditions are frequently potentiated by the stress of separation, and change in environment. The French Bulldog is a companion breed and is known to suffer from separation anxiety. We do our best to make a smooth transition from our care to yours which will minimize the stress for your puppy. Conditions not found during the exam cannot be disclosed as the Seller has no knowledge of their existence at that time. The Seller will make every effort to be transparent regarding health before the puppy comes home with the Buyer. A puppy that has died from anesthesia as a result of being put under for surgery, etc. Sudden death from chocking on an object, falling from any distance, being run over by vehicle or otherwise trauma of any sort is not covered in this health guarantee. It is the Buyers obligation to watch this puppy at all times. Any physical problem which is or could be caused by accident, injury, neglect, or poor diet is not covered in this contract. Mental health, aggressive or otherwise unfavorable behavior which can be prevented with obedience training and proper socialization is not covered in this contract. If at any time the Buyer is no longer able to provide a comfortable and safe home environment for this puppy, the Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller without compensation. The Buyer understands that this puppy cannot be re-sold, re-homed, or given up to a shelter at any time for any reason. The Seller has the sole right to assume responsibility for the puppy if the Buyer is no longer able or willing to be responsible for the puppy. The Buyer is required to sign this contract at the time the non-refundable deposit is placed. Failure to return a signed contract to the Seller before the puppy is released from the Seller to the Buyer will result in cancellation of this contract, which means the Buyer will forfeit any right to compensation from the Seller. Seller has the right to terminate this contract at anytime for any reason between the period that the deposit is placed and before the puppy is received. In the case that the Seller decides the Buyer is no longer a good fit for this puppy, then the Seller will return the deposit. However, if the Buyer decides that they no longer want the puppy for any reason between placing a deposit and before picking the puppy up to take home, the Seller forfeits their deposit in full. Prior to leaving, the puppy will have received a veterinary examination, at least one set of age appropriate vaccinations, and dewormed multiple times. The Seller will provide a hard copy record of the vaccinations and dewormers given to the puppy. It is understood that the Seller assumes no responsibility after the puppy leaves the premises for any change of mind of the Buyers behalf such as a landlords disapproval, allergies, disagreement with family, trouble with housebreaking, etc. In these and similar cases, the Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller without compensation. The puppy must be paid for in full at the time of pick up or at 7 weeks of age if transportation via flight nanny is needed. The puppy must be paid for in full at the time of pick up if picked up in person. NW Frenchies does not finance the purchase of any puppy. If the Buyer is co-owning the puppy, the Buyer must notify the Seller, so that all parties sign the contract. The Seller must approve all future owners of this puppy otherwise the contract is void in full. The Buyer understands that the deposit placed to hold the puppy is non-refundable. The deposit may not be switched to an unsold puppy in the same or other litter unless prior agreed upon with the Seller. It is understood that this contract only applies to the original Buyer, and is non- transferable. It is further understood that there are no warranties, either expressed or implied to the Buyer except as set forth in this agreement. By signing this contract the Buyer agrees and accepts all terms and conditions implemented in this contract. The Seller will help with travel arrangements but is not responsible or liable for the puppy once the puppy leaves the Seller. After 4 weeks the Buyer forfeits their deposit, any right to this puppy, and any right to compensation from the Seller. In the event the Seller is unable to reach the Buyer for more than 2 weeks, the Buyer forfeits their deposit, and right to this puppy, and any compensation from the Seller. The preceding paragraphs contain conditions established to ensure the well-being of your new family member. Both parties have read and fully understand and agree to all terms and conditions of this contract. By signing, Buyer acknowledges to have received a copy of this contract. This puppy sales contract and health guarantee is construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of Washington. All puppies have been recently examined by a licensed veterinarian and will have received a health certificate prior to their travel. Because of this thorough veterinary examination Breeder gives the Buyer a 7 day health guarantee covering contagious illness and a one year guarantee for life threatening congenital disorders. If the Puppy is found to have a contagious illness within 7 days or if the Puppy dies within the guarantee time period, the Buyer must notify Breeder within 48 hours with the following information: Date Puppy was examined; Name, address and phone number of the licensed Veterinarian who examined the Puppy; The diagnosis and all medical records; Necropsy REQUIRED if death has occurred. Breeder will have their veterinarian review approve the diagnosis prior to the return or replacement of the Puppy. If a return is necessary Buyer is responsible to make the arrangements to return Puppy back to the breeder at Buyers cost with the requested vet information and all registration paperwork. Breeder will replace the Puppy with one of the same value when one becomes available for up to eighteen months. The replacement puppy may be from a different litter at a latter date or from different parents. Replacement is the only option, we do not give cash refunds. Shipping costs are non-refundable and are always the responsibility of the Buyer. DO NOT allow your new puppy to be around strangers or unvaccinated dogs, sidewalks, veterinary floors, grass areas or anywhere that other dogs have been until after ALL puppy vaccinations are completed at 16 weeks of age. Because of the nature of a live animal Breeder cannot control the environmental exposure of the Puppy after it leaves the care of the Breeder. Breeder intends that the Buyer will provide the Puppy a permanent home. Breeder will provide applicable registration papers for Puppy. Breeder relinquishes breeding rights to Buyer. There is no guarantee of color, size, breeding, show quality or temperament of the Puppy. There is no guarantee against, hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, cherry eye, dry eye, elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, inverted tail, demodectic mange, herniation inguinal or umbilical , broken bones, allergies, un-descended testicles, bite, parasites or any condition that is treatable and not life threatening. Do not put your puppy on high places including furniture where it may fall and injure itself. Even a sofa can be dangerous to a young puppy. Watch small children who may handle your puppy. Puppies can be seriously injured or killed if dropped or over-handled. French Bulldogs are sensitive to temperatures, especially heat. Never leave your puppy unattended in any area that is not climate controlled. French Bulldogs quickly overheat in high temperatures. Treat the Puppy just as an infant child. Make sure the Puppy is eating and drinking regularly. Should the Buyer change their mind for any reason about the purchase of the Puppy or is no longer able to care for the Puppy at any time, Buyer will not receive a replacement puppy or a refund. However, please contact Breeder for assistance to locate a suitable new home for the Puppy. Remember the Puppy is a baby and will need proper care, training and discipline as it grows up. Seek out local training classes or clubs to help you teach your puppy to be a good canine citizen. We always have inquiries regarding our puppies, and another family may be ready to reserve that same puppy. We encourage you to place a deposit as soon as you are ready! The puppy will be offered to the next family if we do not receive proof that the funds have been sent. The remaining balance is to be paid when the puppy is picked up at 8 weeks of age. Shipping fees and crate are in addition to the cost of the puppy. The puppy is to be picked up or shipped by 12 weeks of age; UNLESS prior arrangements are made with the Seller or the Buyer forfeits all monies paid and the puppy can then be re-sold. Seller does not warranty pups while being shipped; Seller has no control over their care or handling during transport. If Buyer needs to have pup shipped, it will be shipped by one of our trusted nannies or by Frenchie Kiss Inc. We want the best for our dogs and new owners. We will do our best to give helpful; timely advice. French bulldogs can quickly succumb to cold or heat. Buyer understands that MOST French bulldogs cannot swim well, and all precautions must be taken to insure the safety of your bulldog. Better safe than sorry! The Buyer agrees to provide the dog with the proper exercise, diet, shelter and general care and properly maintain adequate accommodations for a French bulldog considering its size and weight. The Buyer further agrees to provide regular veterinary care including checkups, booster vaccinations and any other care needed by the dog e. The Buyer agrees that Frenchie Kiss Inc. Buyer understands that one breeding is retained on ALL males sold with full registration, unless otherwise noted. If we choose to use the male as a part of our program all fees associated with collection, shipping of semen, or any breeding costs will be paid by Frenchie Kiss Inc. Puppies sold with limited registration will have no breeding rights and cannot be bred for any reason and will be in violation of agreement if puppy is bred. We, Frenchie Kiss Inc. Buyer must have puppy spayed or neutered by 1 year of age. Buyer will also pay all court costs associated with this matter. Breeder will either keep said puppy or find the puppy a suitable home. When a suitable home is secured, any monies received for the puppy will be reimbursed to the buyer. Under no circumstances may the dog be surrendered to any animal shelter. The dog is sold for the sole purpose of being a companion. While it may be capable of performing other functions, no warranty is given to its fitness for any special purpose. Health Guarantee: Puppy is covered until 12 months of age against life threatening congenital conditions. If puppy is found to have a life-threatening congenital defect by puppy's 1st birthday, Frenchie Kiss Inc. Frenchie Kiss Inc. If the second vet does not agree that the puppy has a life-threatening congenital condition, the buyer may opt to pay for a third opinion for a final diagnosis. If the quality of life of said puppy is severely affected the Seller asks that the puppy be humanely euthanized by a veterinarian and that a written and conclusive diagnosis and a description of the puppy along with the registration papers be returned to the Seller before a replacement puppy will be offered. If Buyer chooses to send puppy back to the Seller, the Seller will replace the puppy of equal value when one is available. The warranty is applicable only to the original Buyer and is not transferable to any third party. The Buyer agrees the remedies listed above are the only remedies available. If ill health is fraudulently claimed the second and third opinion cost will be the responsibility of the buyer. Buyer understands that the Seller makes no guarantee that they will be able to show or breed the puppy as an adult regardless of show or breeding potentials visually perceived as a puppy. We do our best to produce dogs that are show-able and breed able, but no one can guarantee the outcome of any puppy. Coccidiosis Coccidia , giardia, and Breeder KENNEL cough upper respiratory are not covered in this contract, all of which can be common in puppies and neither are life threatening and are easily treated. Parvovirus is not covered in this health guarantee. Seller HIGHLY recommends you the Buyer do not place your puppy on the ground in public places until their immune system is better developed after 18 weeks of age. These places are breeding grounds for disease and illness even for vaccinated adult dogs! Failure to have puppy examined by a licensed Veterinarian within this time frame will null and void the health guarantee. Puppies that do not have pet insurance will void 1-year Heath Guarantee. Puppies bred before 1 year of age will also void 1-year Health Guarantee. All legal proceedings will take place in the City of Red Deer in the Province of Alberta, the residence of the breeder, and this contract is valid the entire life of the canine unless transferred to a subsequent owner. Proof of successful completion is required for rebate.

In this way the pup learns that some bounds, but it can do what it wants with its own toys. Because of this, puppies should not be taken to public open places where unvaccinated dogs may have been, until at least a week after their second vaccination at ten to twelve weeks of age. Although it is important to socialise your puppy between eight and twelve weeks of age with both people and other dogs, the risks may out weigh the benefits. You may consider visiting friends that have fully vaccinated dogs or restricting socialisation to human interactions until after your pup is fully vaccinated. I have already mentioned the need to make sure that your yard is secure to prevent the puppy escaping into potentially hazardous environments. It is also important to check the yard itself for potential threats. You should also make sure that there is no access to potentially toxic products that may be in the garden or shed such as snail pellets, rodent bait, engine coolant, and fertiliser. The desire to chew and swallow inappropriate objects is also a concern. Electrical cords should be kept out of reach both inside and outside the house. Small objects and toys that are too small for the type of pup you have may be swallowed and result in a bowel obstruction or cause the puppy to choke. Your vet or state kennel council can advise you on things that may pose a threat in your area. They are just like children in many ways and therefore a commonsense approach is required. A couple of days of close observation will help you identify potential hazards. Moderation is the key to a healthy, fit and long-lived dog. Doing too much too soon will only impair your dogs health. Limit free running with other dogs, especially those bigger and more agile. Retrieving games also need to be limited and no jumping until 12 months of age. Even jumping in or out of the family car is not recommended. Some surfaces are detrimental to growing puppies too. Shiny, slippery surfaces need extra special care. Keep the puppy off these as much as possible and definitely no fast movement or games on slippery surfaces. Supplementation of bones and raw food diets is highly recommended to help ensure a balanced diet. Fresh food diets containing cooked meat, grains, and vegetables enjoy far greater acceptance by vets. Cooking helps eliminate parasites and bacteria that may cause illness in your dog and helps the dog digest and utilise the nutrients in grain and fresh vegetables. There are some excellent dietary alternatives to feeding a dry food diet. The only requirement is some solid research into the diet, the time needed to prepare the diet, and preferably some consultation with your vet on the pros and cons of the diet you are proposing to use. A feeding trial is also recommended but you need to allow at least six weeks, preferably more, to adequately assess the effects of the diet. Unfortunately, some serious consequences of nutritional deficiencies can take much longer to become apparent. There can also be serious consequences resulting from the excessive intake of some nutrients, hence the importance of consulting with your vet before making any radical dietary decisions. Whether or not you feed primarily dry food, cooked food, raw food, or a combination of both, All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. In the beginning, the food needs for my Labrador Molly changed dramatically. I worried that I was feeding her too little. As she grew older, I became concerned that I was feeding her too much. So, how often should you feed a Labrador? You should feed an adult Labrador two meals per day. You should feed Labrador puppies three meals per day, unless otherwise stated on the food packaging. It is essential to adhere to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your Lab. You should also be aware of how to handle situations when your dog doesn't want to eat on schedule or doesn't finish its meal. In this article Labrador Feeding Schedules Labrador adults, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. Twice per day is the standard as it allows the dog to eat and digest properly. Puppies will require more frequent feedings, though, as they expend far more energy and smaller stomachs to hold their needed food. If you have a Labrador that gets a lot of exercise, you may want to consider feeding them less food more often, as they will likely feel hungry sooner. Age, size, and the food's nutritional content should determine the amount of food given. Whatever the frequency, it's crucial for your puppy or dog to have a regular feeding schedule. Disrupting this can cause digestive problems that are unpleasant for the dog and the owner. According to Veterinary Centers of America, dogs are creatures of habit that need the security and predictability of their feeding routine. In addition, keeping the feeding schedule consistent helps your pet cope with other changes that may occur within the household. Lastly, never free-feed a Labrador. While Labradors may not technically eat themselves to death , they can certainly make themselves sick if you let them decide how much and how often to eat. This is especially true while you're trying to establish a set routine for when your Lab will eat its meals. Feed Your Lab Less Food More Frequently If you find that your Labrador isn't interested in eating the entire meal in a single sitting, you can add more mealtime if it works for your schedule. To do this, you should take the whole day's meal portion and divide it evenly into the desired number of meals. If you add an extra mealtime, you should serve 1 cup at each of the three meals. In other words, adding another mealtime doesn't mean that you add more food intake to the day's total. Use Interactive Food Dispensers Another option is to use an interactive toy to dispense the food, which may help to keep your dog's attention for the entire mealtime. It is an excellent option to hide food or treats. This particular item is perfect for a Labrador because it will allow your pet to use its intelligence to solve a puzzle and problem-solve while being rewarded with the kibble hidden inside. Although it isn't a good option for every Lab's mealtime, it is an idea for a pup that loses interest in their food before finishing. How Much to Feed a Labrador Your Lab's portions at each meal should depend on a few different factors. First of all, you need to know if your pup is currently at a healthy weight. So the best thing to do in this case is to ask your veterinarian if your Lab is at a healthy weight. If your Lab is not at an ideal weight , you'll need to talk to your vet and amend the feeding plan. You may also consider a specialized food designed to help your dog reach the appropriate weight. Your Labrador's activity level will also impact how much he needs to eat each day. It's always a good idea to consult the feeding guide on your dog food and your veterinarian's advice to make an informed decision. Labrador Feeding Schedule Examples To give you an idea of a standard feeding schedule and meal plan, here is a chart based on the feeding recommendation from Royal Canin's Labrador Retriever dry puppy food : Adult Target Weight:. Naturally, Labrador puppies would require more feeding times. Hence, you should only set a few hours interval between meals. As for adult Labs, optimal feeding times would be one in the morning, afternoon, and night. Almost identical to human eating hours. Along with implementing a time frame for mealtime, owners must be open to modifying combinations of puppy food throughout the first two years of the pup. Abrupt growth spurts may bring changes in their eating habits. Once your dog reaches one year old, its dog food is enough to sustain its energy for longer. Always ensure to follow the correct feeding schedule when feeding kibble or other types of dog food to ensure nutritional requirements are met. Regardless if you have chocolate , red fox , or Dudley Labrador , make it a priority to visit a pet nutritionist to obtain an accurate feeding time and quantity specifically designed for your pooch. They help in hunting, farming, and even therapy. As such, they require an energy-loaded diet and dog foods that are rich in protein and carbohydrates to keep up with their activities. Since they belong to the large breed classification, they are also prone to common health risks such as arthritis and other joint diseases. To prevent this, scour the local pet store with dog food that contains omega fatty acids, B vitamins, beta-carotene , and amino acids. These nutrients are essential to obtain, whether from a raw food diet, home-prepared meals, or commercial dog food. Here are some of the best dog foods we recommend for your Labrador Retriever: Wet Food: Like kibble, commercially available wet dog food is common and already a complete and balanced diet for your Labrador puppy or adult dog. Its smooth texture is well-loved by purebreds and mixed breeds alike. Eating wet food that contains Docosahexaenoic acid DHA , glucosamine, and Eicosapentaenoic acid EPA helps support the condition of their joints and heart. Dry Food: When on the hunt for the most suitable dry dog food, always look for grain-free and made from whole food sources so it can easily be digested. Also, check the food labels and ensure that it has a perfect balance of carbohydrates and fats. Highly fortified and breed-specific kibble is also recommended. Homemade Food: Considering how much your adult dog or Lab puppy eats, a healthy diet made from scratch can be a great alternative to avoid obesity. Just mix everything together with a little water to incorporate them better. Furthermore, this diet opts for low sodium content. Owners should include fish and flaxseed oil, carrots, eggs, liver, and beans into the raw puppy food diet. Since Labrador Retrievers are energetic and active dogs, it is best to give them a moderate to high-fat diet. As long as they are able to exercise daily, they can easily work it off and avoid being overweight. However, if they are more on the lax side, adjust their food intake from low to moderate calories. If they cannot burn off the calories, enroll them in a low-fat or low-protein diet instead. Excessive carbs can increase their blood sugar and may put your dogs at risk for diabetes. It may take extra time and effort, but the investment will definitely pay off. Once you learn the appropriate feeding pattern, then having a healthy dog with strong joints and a better digestive and immune system is easily attainable. That includes sharing our belongings, space, and most especially, our food. However, the American Kennel Club reminds owners to be aware of what human food is safe for dogs. In this section, you will learn which foods are okay for consumption and which food can harm our Labrador Retrievers. Physically, it can block their esophagus if not chewed properly. Moreover, some may also contain salt that can be fatal to their heart. Chocolate: Chocolate in any other form should not be given to dogs. Chocolate has toxic substances called methylxanthines that put a stop to their metabolic process. It can still be toxic even in the smallest amount as it may cause diarrhea or vomiting. Garlic and Allium Plants: Alliums such as garlic, chives, leeks, and onions are not good for dog consumption. Although regularly seen across social media, feeding your pooch ice cream is not recommended. It contains loads of sugar, and some dogs may be lactose intolerant as well. As an alternative, owners can always freeze berries and apples as a regular icy treat. On the contrary, here are some of the most friendly human foods for all dogs, including Labrador Retrievers: Milk: Milk is a great supplement of other nutrients for dogs. Just be mindful that your dog is not lactose intolerant. It should only be given in small quantities as a treat. Popcorn: On a movie night, dogs can also munch on popcorn. However, ensure that it is unsalted, unflavored, and air-popped. In moderation, it is a good source of thiamine and riboflavin for eyesight. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid choking. Seafood: In addition, seafood such as salmon and shrimp contain good fats and are high in antioxidants. Seafood boosts their immune system and brain health. Be sure to thoroughly cook salmon, fish, and shrimp all the way through to avoid parasites. Eggs: Eggs are also safe for dogs so long as they are also cooked well. Cheese: Cheese can also be given to dogs in moderate quantities. Go for low-fat cheese as a treat. Mozzarella and cottage cheese are some that can be fully enjoyed by dogs without the fat guilt. A small amount of prohibited food is not worth an emergency trip to a vet. Throughout their life stages, a dog will not just undergo one food switch. Age, health, and other factors can fuel a change in their diet. As stated earlier, an abrupt change in their food will only cause an upset stomach and indigestion. There are a couple of reasons to switch food. Add the new food into each meal gradually and reduce the portion of their current food. This method can also be followed when changing from dry kibble to raw feeding and vice versa. Some reasons for change can be prompted by age. Different life stages will require different nutritional requirements for your dog. Other reasons may be caused by allergies, brand availability, and weight management. It is still best to consult your trusted vet about changing their overall food regimen. They just enjoy feeding their pooch with tons of food and love seeing them get fat. However, that is not considered proper care for them. Experienced dog breeders know precisely what an overweight dog looks like and how to feed them properly. Labradors are known for their love of food. They are incapable of switching off their hunger signals even after eating. As a result, Labs have a higher number of overweight dogs in the United States. Like with other dogs, overfeeding a dog can lead to obesity. Thankfully, there are ways to address this and protect the health of our pooch in the long run. An eye-opening first step is to have a handy Labrador food guide. Having this will help you gauge the correct amount of food your dog needs depending on its age and other factors as well. Log what they eat and how much they eat during each meal. Calculating their calorie intake is also helpful for medical purposes and when switching food. Furthermore, avoid feeding overweight dogs table scraps. Many owners are guilty of this habit. Much like table scraps, it is also best to limit dog treats. Entice dogs with treats only on special occasions and during training. These are just some of the simple things you can do to control an overweight pooch. When it comes to other methods, it is always advisable to speak with your vet. Dogs lose their appetite due to some reasons. Do Labrador Retrievers Eat a lot? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are a food-motivated breed. This is why owners need to control their food intake. Can Labrador Retrievers Eat Bones? Bones are a good source of minerals, so they can be good for Labrador Retrievers. However, it may come with serious physical trade-offs. Give only large, raw bones and supervise them from time to time. Dispose of the bone after 3 to 4 days. Can Labrador Retrievers Be Vegetarians? Yes, Labrador Retrievers can thrive with a proper vegetable diet in place. In fact, soy and other whole grains are perfect substitutes for meat for protein. However, a vegetarian diet is something that needs professional input from vets. Final Thoughts Labs are the most popular dog breed in the United States. Thus, there are a lot of available materials on how to take care of and feed this easy-going pooch properly. For starters, it is highly recommended to have a Labrador feeding schedule to guide you with the amount and frequency of feeding. Although Labrador food is accessible for purchase anywhere, you can also introduce them in a raw diet or homemade meals. Regardless of what type of food you choose to give, you need to ensure to feed your dog a complete diet that supports their growth and overall health. As an owner, it is a big responsibility to provide them with only the best, so these high-spirited companions can have a happy and longer life. Will you follow this Labrador food guide? What are your feeding methods with your pooch? Share and comment your thoughts below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article Getty Images Every dog out there can't help but beg for table scraps every once in a while. But it turns out there's one breed that's more food-obsessed than the rest, and it's the most popular dog in America. A new study found Labrador retrievers are more likely than other breeds to beg for treats and generally be obsessed with food. That's because they have a specific gene mutation that sets them apart from the rest. It's the first of its kind that has been directly associated with canine obesity. The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism , looked at specific genes that were related to obesity in humans. Obese dogs were more likely to have mutations in the gene POMC, and that genetic tweak was associated with food-motivated behaviors. Dogs with a specific POMC deletion were more likely to beg for food, pay attention at mealtimes, scavenge for scraps, and weigh more in general. Though not all food-obsessed dogs had the gene mutation, it was still a clear connection. And in a fascinating detail, the study also found that the gene mutation was more likely in Labradors that were working as assistance dogs. So if you have one of these pups, the researchers suggest keeping a closer eye on their weight. Make sure you're vigilant about portion control and don't give in to the puppy-dog eyes begging for a piece of steak at the dinner table. It's tough, but it's for your best friend's own good. Watch Next. Vets have mentioned that Labradors tend to be overweight dogs because of their begging. Why are Labrador retrievers always hungry? Why are Labradors obsessed with food? The latest studies in cell metabolism reflect the point that the over-hungry behaviour may be due to some biological factors. Results show that inability to switch off hunger is due to the modification in a gene, POMC. Additionally, due to this modification, Labradors cannot produce neuropeptides beta MSH and beta-endorphin, hunger switches. The same is the reason which causes obesity in dogs and especially in the Labrador breed. Along with this, there are chances that your Labrador is genuinely hungry, and it is not due to the absence of the mentioned substances. There is a possibility that the current food you are offering to your Labrador is not enough to complete its nutrient needs. Sometimes sickness also causes random and abnormal hunger in Labrador. Not only this, separation anxiety, along with stress or depression, also forces the dog to eat whatever is coming its way. Do Labrador retrievers eat a lot? As mentioned above, all of the explanations directly reflect that Labrador retrievers eat a lot. No matter what quality or quantity of food you are providing to your lab, it is going to demand food after an hour or even after 15 minutes. Again the reasons are somehow clear at this point it is due to the genetic modification which causes abnormal hunger in your Labrador. This abnormal hunger forces them to chew toys, socks, and stones. There is a wide range of methods to train a Labrador to stop begging for food and demand meals at their specific time. Proper training will teach your Labrador to control hunger rather than exploring the trash and eating grass and dirt. How many times a day should you feed a Labrador? Yes, we accept that Labradors eat a lot, but still, you should make a routine of feeding your Labrador so that it will not get an upset tummy or diarrhoea. Because of the food obsession, Labradors are more prone to get diarrhoea or other stomach problems, so you must feed them on a proper routine. The routine makes it easy for the Labrador to digest meals, and hence they get a smoothly running digestive system. Check out our article about How much to feed Labrador? The need and time for food will keep changing with the growing age of Labrador. Or we can say that a puppy will have a different food need as compared to the adult Labrador. For the Labrador puppies, it is highly recommended to feed them four times a day at the age of 3 months. For the Labradors between three to six months, the advice is to provide them only three times a day. Once your Labrador is older than six months, feed them twice a day. It is crucial to mention that parents should avoid feeding their puppy within 3 hours of leading up to bed. In case your Labrador is suffering from diarrhoea or soft stools, then you must feed it with smaller different meals rather than a few large meals. Some love it more than others, and some of those are Labrador retrievers—the bottomless pits of the canine world. Dog obesity isn't something we talk about a lot, but there sure is a lot of it. In the U. Some breeds, like black labs, chocolate labs, and golden retrievers, are more obesity-prone than others. This is likely because, like many of us, they are highly motivated by food. But those treats add up. The domesticated dog, Canis familiaris, is a single species with a lot of variations. Great Danes and Chihuahuas are both dogs, but their bloodlines, and therefore their genes, are dramatically different. And all those differences within a single species make dog breeds a great resource for scientists studying genetics. Researchers recruited nearly adult Labrador participants. Of those dogs, were pets recruited through an email invitation from the UK Kennel Club, and 80 were part of an assistance-dog breeding colony. Some of the dogs were fat, while others were not, but all of them were healthy, with no pre-existing conditions. First, the dogs were weighed. Then the scientists collected drool samples from 33 of the dogs and sequenced the DNA within. As relatives, of course, the labs had a great deal of genetic material in common with each other and with other dog breeds. But they also had one gene variant that stood out: the deletion of 14 base pairs from a gene called pro-opiomelanocortin, or POMC. Previous studies of this POMC variant have shown a relationship with appetite and a feeling of fullness. Each dog could have one copy of the POMC variant, two copies, or none. The more copies a dog had, the fatter and more food-motivated it was. And about 23 percent of labs are carrying at least one copy of the variant. So further research in these obese Labradors may not only help the well-being of companion animals but also have important lessons for human health. For example, though they have to meet specific requirements, commercial dog foods may differ in nutrient composition, where one type of dog food carries the nutrients your dog needs in a small amount while another gives the nutrients in a larger amount. In the first case, feeding your dog twice daily would be enough. But if your dog needs a larger amount to meet his nutritional needs, then you may need to feed him more times. Reading the dog food listing on the package should help you decide on the number of times to feed your Lab. Alternatively, refer to the serving instructions on the dog food package. This dog food is made to provide a balanced feed to Labradors older than a year and balances out the fat and protein ratio to suit the breed. To answer the question of how often you should feed a Labrador with this particular product, the serving suggestion on the Royal Canin Labrador food package shows the number of cups your Labrador should eat per day in relation to its weight and activity level, divided into two meals. For example, a pound 20 kg Labrador with an hour of daily activity should be fed 4 cups 1 L of Royal Canin divided into two meals. Activity Level Labradors with a high activity level should be fed more food to replenish the energy expended during exercise. The more food a dog eats, the more you should break it down into smaller meals. For example, a pound 35 kg male Labrador is assigned 6 cups of Royal Canin food if he does 1 hour of activity daily. The increased food amount would be better divided into three meals rather than the usual two. This rationing is because feeding your dog more than it is used to eat in a single meal can cause slowed digestion and, consequently, bloating and stomach discomfort. A healthy dog feeding option is a 3-meal daily schedule breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Health Labradors with health issues need special feeding plans. The rule for the number of times a sick Labrador should be fed is they should eat in small quantities several times daily. The food should be easy to eat and digest, like chicken breast or gravy. Doing this will ensure that your dog gets the required nutrients and does not risk malnourishment. Instead, if you work from home, you may opt for healthier, smaller meals 3-times a day. For example, you may already feed your Lab the right amount of food recommended for his age, weight, and activity level twice a day, but your dog always leaves food in his bowl. In this case, you may want to divide the food into three smaller meals. Dividing the food will ensure your dog eats the recommended amount and gets the required nutrition. Creating a Labrador feeding plan also means not allowing your Lab to eat every bit of food or non-food items he finds on his way. We will tell you how in the next section. Consult your vet. Lab food with all the recommended nutrients and the right amount of fiber will make your dog feel full and not required to eat always. You can work that out with your vet before reaching out to a dog food company. I really like Ollie as it makes feeding times so easy, and you can relax knowing your doggo is getting all the proper nutrients. Understanding why Labradors always feel hungry due to a genetic cause is reason enough not to give in to their begging. Giving in once means giving in always, and that will keep your dog asking for food at the table or even stealing it himself when you are not around. If your Lab is the kind that likes to eat everything, time spent working the puzzle could save him a few extra bites. For example, keeping your Lab busy with slow feeders while you have your meal is a perfect way of keeping him from begging for table scraps. If a puzzle or slow feeder sounds to you like an answer to the question of how to stop a Labrador from eating everything, I recommend the Outward Hound Slow Feeder Dog Bowl from Amazon. Whichever the case, your vet has the best answer to all these situations. There are several reasons why Labradors eat fast: your dog may have the POMC gene mutation that makes him always hungry and wanting to gobble down his food; your Lab may have a hunger-triggering illness like diabetes, or your Lab may be unsure of his next meal if your feeding schedule is irregular. Other reasons your Lab may be hurrying to eat his meal include: A learned behavior to eat quickly. Poor nutrition that makes him always hungry and in a hurry to replenish his energies. Competition for food resources with other pets in the home. If, instead, your Lab has a medical, nutritional, or stress issue, resolving the causes will help your Lab grow out of eating everything. Do you want to learn more about pica in Labradors? Why do Labradors eat so much? For no fault of their own. A good number of Labs have a mutation of the POMC gene that makes them perpetually hungry and always want to eat. Some Labs may eat a lot due to nutritional deficiencies, illnesses that trigger hunger like diabetes, or stress. Related Posts You May Like:. Interestingly, the University of Cambridge study found that the POMC gene mutation is significantly more common in Labrador Retrievers who are selected to become assistance dogs. Unfortunately, an underlying medical problem is another reason why Labs always feel hungry. If your dog has suddenly developed an increased appetite, then a visit to the vet is definitely in order. Canine diabetes can also make a dog feel hungry all the time. If this is the problem there are some ways to fix it. Between meal snacks should be the first thing you remove or change. This includes those used for training purposes Commercial snacks pack a lot of calories, often without any nutritional value. Consider vegetables, fruit, and other healthier alternatives. Portion Control Knowing how much food to give your Labrador is not always as easy as reading the label. Although this should give you some guidelines. How much food a Lab needs will differ from dog to dog and brand to brand. If so, you may need to reduce the amount of food he gets at mealtimes. Start by giving him a third less food than normal. This article offers more tips on feeding a Labrador. On average a male Labrador should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. A female should weigh from 55 to 70 pounds. This is because, like people, pets have different bone structures. They can be outside the average weight range and still be at their optimal weight. Look at your dog from different angles. Also, you should feel for his ribs. These are good ways to tell if they need to lose weight. You should be able to detect a waistline when looking at your dog from above. There should also be a slight tuck up behind the ribs. When lightly running your hands along the sides of the dog you should be able to feel their ribs.

Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Please visit our website - www. I was rescued from a puppy mill. I am shy because I have not been around a lot of people or lived in a home as a pet. I have spent my life in a barn, a shed or a cage. The best home for me has people who have dog experience who can help with my training and acclimating to the outside world. The people in my new home should be able to teach me the skills I need to be a great pet: walking on a lead, house training, and socializing. They are checking me out and making sure I am healthy. Hopefully, I will find my new family that will help me to understand that I am a cherished family pet, not just an animal to be used to make money. For more information about this dog, email our Adoption Coordinator. Our adoption process starts with an application. If you are interested in adopting this pup, please click the Adopt menu at the top of the screen, read about our process, and click the application link. The medical and custodial care of the many Cockers in our care is tremendous. More and more dogs are abandoned with urgent and serious medical issues. We are committed to providing the best possible care for these forgotten friends. Unfortunately, the mounting high costs are beginning to limit the number of dogs we are able to take into our program. Even if you cannot adopt or foster one of our current adoptable dogs, please consider making a donation. The Cocker Spaniel Adoption Center is a c 3 non-profit charitable organization, and your donations are entirely tax deductible. Click the Donate menu at the top of the screen. For more information, visit www. September 13, , pm.

What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.