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Last Updated: April 26, This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no cost to you. English Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world, known for their friendly, gentle, and loving personalities. They have long been a favorite of families and individuals who want a loyal, affectionate companion, especially their American counterparts, American Goldens. But with so many different types of Golden Retrievers out there, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. In particular, many people are curious about English Cream Golden Retriever puppies with their beautiful cream-colored coats. English Cream Golden Retrievers are a type of Golden Retriever among many subtypes of golden retriever that originated in Scotland in the midth century. They can be referred to via many different names, including English Cream Goldens, white Goldens, and more. They were created by a man named Lord Tweedmouth, who bred them from a Tweed Water Spaniel and existing retriever breeds. The goal was to run a breeding program to create a medium-sized dog with a gentle temperament, good behavior, excellent retrieving skills, and a white coat. Over time, the breed gained popularity across Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. Characteristics One of the most striking things about English Cream Golden Retrievers is their coat color. As the name suggests, these dogs have cream-colored coat that ranges from almost white to pale gold. This rare white European retriever is in contrast to American Golden Retrievers, which have a more golden or reddish color. They are known as family dogs, great with young children, as well as adult dogs are great for dog shows. Some other things to consider are supplies. No matter the breed, temperament, or age of your pup, you will need a few items to get started. Here are some of our recommendations to get started:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our dogs have OFA certifications, and Pennhips passing results. Puppies are sold with limited registration. Puppy choosing order is based on the order of deposit received. Two year guarantee: Covers such defects as severe hip dysplasia, severe heart defects and serious life altering genetic defects, as these are disorders that greatly affect the quality of a dogs' life due to pain or weakness. Terms to be discussed with breeder. Puppy must be fed premium quality dog food, and NuVet vitamins must be given daily to promote optimal health! We truly believe in nutrition as the number one priority for your new pup. We have done countless research and nothing on the market compares to NuVet Plus vitamins. Our goal is to help you keep your new family member as healthy as can be for his or her entire life. This is why we have incorporated this into our guarantee. Puppies are susceptible to joint diseases and other ailments just like humans so we want to start boosting their immune system as soon as possible! Feeding premium food is not enough because all dry food needs to be processed to destroy bacteria, in return killing all of the heat sensitive nutrients. On your first visit to the vet, the vet will suggest a range of tests and health screenings for your dog. This will include the basics such as physical examination, fecal sample tests, vaccines and parasite prevention treatments. The vet will request further testing and schedule follow-up visits based on the test results. Ideally, a large breed dog like the English Cream Retriever is ready for sterilization when it is closer to 12 months of age. Some veterinary clinics will perform the procedure for a lower cost without any post-op care. So be mindful of what you choose. Note that spaying or neutering your dog is an optional cost. So you can choose to do it when you want or not do it all. But performing this surgery can prevent any reproductive-related issues from developing. Veterinary Care During the Adult Years Visiting the vet during the first year to ensure your puppy is alright and returning to the vet only when your dog gets sick again is not how proper veterinary care works. You have to commit your time and finance to veterinary care. This will ensure your dog is maintained in a healthy state. For an average dog in good health condition, the vet will recommend around follow-up visits throughout the year. These visits will cover the basics like physical examinations, vaccine updates and any required blood work. Depending on the findings, your vet may request further testing if required. Pet Insurance Pet insurance is one of the most essential investments you make for your pet. Pet insurance will cover major medical bills due to emergencies and expensive medical procedures. Many companies offer affordable and extensive plans for accident and illness coverage. Some even extend to complete health coverage which will cost much heavier. No matter what breed your dog is. Grooming Cost English Cream retrievers are easy to groom dogs. Every months, it is recommended that you get a professional grooming session to trim your Retrievers coat at the ears, feet, neck and tail to keep them smart. Training Cost English Cream retrievers are sociable and friendly dogs who are relatively easy to train. Although they have a friendly nature, we recommend professional training sessions for house manners, potty training, basic behavior and command training during the early stages. English Cream Retrievers rarely need private sessions. They are ideal for dogs who lack socialization around other dogs. Other Potential Costs Apart from the basic costs listed above, it would be best if you were also prepared to face additional costs in raising your English Cream Retriever. You may not necessarily be in a situation where you have to incur some of these expenses. But at the same time, some of these costs are unavoidable in certain circumstances. Microchip Microchipping your dog comes in super handy if your dog happens to get lost. When your dog is found and returned to a shelter, a vet can easily identify the owner using the microchip scanner. Dog License A dog license serves a similar purpose as a microchip. Dog Walking Your English Cream retriever will definitely benefit from exercise as they are energetic and playful dogs. So on days, you cannot take your dog for a walk, you can hire a dog walker. If you expect to use this service in the long run, you can multiply and add the respective cost to the annual basic total cost. Traveling If you want your dog to accompany you on your travels, there are options for that too. Many airlines, train companies and hotels do allow the facility of accommodating your pet with you. But this will no doubt come at a hefty price. So check ahead of time and plan your travels accordingly. Training tools dog owners must have for their dogs:. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. Size: inches tall and lbs— so essentially a very large Teddy bear. Lifespan: of the best years of your life! Energy Level: Active Coat: Thick, silky, and luxurious. Shedding: Moderately heavy. Hypoallergenic: Unfortunately, English Cream Goldens are not hypoallergenic. What is an English Cream Golden Retriever? Ah, the English Cream Golden Retriever, also known as the striking ivory white counterpart to the traditional Goldens we all know and love. And with a name like that, it comes as no surprise that these dogs are so sought after! Basically, an English Cream is a subtype of the Golden Retriever breed—more specifically a variation of the British Golden. English Cream Goldens gained their namesake as a result of, well, their elegant pale coats, which can range in color from a delicate cream shade to white. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the British Golden subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oh, and we can thank years of selective breeding for that wonderful and uniquely white coat of theirs, too. Because their temperament is friendly, fun-loving, and obedient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and attentive. Like all Goldens, they are playful and excitable. In short, their great, balanced temperament makes them a great addition to any home! Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are English Cream Goldens more expensive? What is the difference between English Cream and Golden Retriever? The British Goldens including the English Cream are very similar to their American Golden relatives; however, they do tend to sport slightly lighter colored coats overall and are about 2 inches shorter on average. How big is a full-grown English Cream Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do English Cream Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the English Cream Goldens often have a coat that is slightly thicker and shorter than the American Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are English Cream Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, English Cream Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature. In fact, their sweet, calm, and lovable disposition make them a fantastic addition to any family including yours. Are English Cream Goldens more calm? Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. As the name suggests, these dogs are more popular in the UK. Because of their rarity and the specificity of the bloodline, these dogs are very expensive. There are some outliers on either end of this range. This is far more than most other breeds costs. This covers everything, including food, grooming, preventative vet care, and microchipping. Optional things are not included, like pet insurance and dog walking. Your costs can vary widely depending on where you get your dog from. When you compare this to a breeder that charges thousands, the huge savings are pretty obvious. Occasionally, you may be able to find these dogs advertised on places like Craigslist. However, there are many problems with going this route. However, they may occasionally. Generally, dogs on Craigslist are not produced by breeders; this causes a variety of different problems. Firstly, the adult dogs are usually not health tested, which means that they may pass on a variety of different conditions to their puppies. Secondly, most of the puppies do not receive the proper health care. As you might imagine, this can be an obvious problem. Some of these puppies are produced by puppy mills. These focus on producing as many puppies as possible or as cheaply as possible. Typically, this translates into taking many different shortcuts, such as not giving the dogs any medical care and spending very little time socializing with them. As you might imagine, puppies from these breeders are not particularly healthy or well-behaved. Most have never been in a home before their adoption. Some puppy mills produce a number of different breeds, so you might even end up with a mix instead of a pure-bred English Cream Retriever. Your puppy might be a Goldendoodle or similar cross. Getting a puppy from a rescue These dogs are much too rare to be common at rescues. There is simply no other place to find them. The majority of these breeders have contracts with buyers that require them to return the dog if they can no longer take care of it. Therefore, the dogs never end up in an animal shelter. The cost is sometimes based on the amount of vet care that particular dog had to receive. Puppies are usually more expensive than adults, as they tend to be adopted faster. Getting a puppy from a breeder While getting a puppy from a breeder can be expensive, this is mostly because you get a lot with your purchase of the puppy. Most puppies receive their first vaccinations and vet exam before being adopted. Quite a few puppies also come with some basic training before they are adopted out. This may include house training and simple commands. Some breeders do this themselves, while others hire a trainer. All of these extras add to the cost of your puppy. You may end up spending less on these puppies overall when you factor in all of these savings. Plus, many breeders also get their dogs health tested. This lowers the chance that an adult dog will pass on genetic issues to their puppies, resulting in a healthier litter. Costs of health tests One of the main reasons puppies from breeders are so expensive is due to health testing. A big factor in the cost is geographical location, as well as whether or not the dog needs sedation. This issue is common in all large dog breeds, especially retrievers. Flat-Coated Retrievers and Labradors also often show hip dysplasia. Many breeders also do testing for progressive retinal atrophy. This causes the eye to break down over time, which eventually leads to blindness. It simply depends on how the disease progresses. Other eye tests may be done as well, depending on the particular breeder. Their costs are very similar to other Golden Retrievers. A large portion of this will be the supplies your puppy needs when you bring them home, such as a dog bed and bowl. Of course, puppies also need quite a bit of vet care and training as well. All preventative vet care is included in this estimate, as is food, toys, grooming, and other regular costs. This includes all the preventative care your dog will need, like a physical exam, vaccinations, and basic blood tests. Puppies will need to visit the vet more often during their first year to receive all of their vaccinations. The first visit is usually around eight weeks and may be covered by your breeder. If this is the case, you can likely expect to pay on the lower end of the range for vet bills. Adults will only need one preventative appointment a year, but more work will need to be done at this single appointment. Therefore, you probably will pay about the same for adults and puppies. Often, vets will recommend certain diagnostic tests on older adults to catch potential health problems early. Food and toys Because these pups grow to be large dogs , they will require more food. Older dogs are simply larger and eat more, hence the increased cost as your dog ages. This covers high-quality food with plenty of meat and protein. You can save a bit of money by purchasing lower-quality foods, but this is not recommended. Just like people, dogs are what they eat. Because these dogs are quite active, you will be spending quite a bit on toys. While you may save a little bit upfront by purchasing lower-quality toys, your dog will typically be able to tear those up quite quickly. Training costs While these dogs are easy to train, we still recommend taking them to a professional — at least in the beginning. This is likely all that your dog needs. This breed rarely needs private lessons. Private lessons are great for dogs that cannot be around other canines due to a lack of socialization. However, the aim is always to get them into a group class. This breed is very sociable, so they usually have no problem being around other dogs. We highly recommend skipping the private classes, therefore. This assumes your dog is okay being around other canines, of course. Factors influencing the price These dogs vary a bit in pricing. They are all quite expensive, but some are more expensive than others. If a dog is more expensive, it is likely because they have more champions in their bloodline and will perform better in the show ring. Puppies with a direct lineage back to England are also usually more expensive. The amount of training and socialization a puppy also receives matters. Some breeders will charge a few thousand dollars extra for training — which you may or may not be able to opt-out of. All breeders socialize their puppies within their homes. But some will provide more socialization than others. Medical expenses also play a role. If the puppy has already received their first vaccinations, then you will likely pay extra for that puppy. However, you will not have to pay for these vaccinations, so you may end up spending less in the long run. Health testing can be expensive, so these puppies will likely be more expensive as well. Price considerations These dogs can be extremely expensive to adopt. For this reason, your main budgeting will be towards the actual price of a puppy. However, you should also budget appropriately for the annual price of a puppy. The bottom line Due to their rarity, this breed is very expensive to adopt. This includes annual costs and one-time purchases for the puppy. This will cost you a few more thousand dollars a year. Be sure you budget appropriately for this breed before you decide to purchase one. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Video: Bernedoodle Puppy Obedience Training Types Bernedoodles have been differentiated into three different types, depending upon their sizes: The Toy Bernedoodle: Those that weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, with height 10 — 14 inches. The Miniature Bernedoodle: Those with weight between 25 and 49 pounds, and height 15 — 20 inches. The Standard Bernedoodle: Those that weigh 50 pounds or more, and standing 21 inches and above. Temperament and Behavior Bernedoodles are responsive and loving. They love their family and are even good with the children. They are intelligent and social. This makes them fit to be a good family dog. However, they have a very relaxed temperament, with a moderate energy level. The dog would stay next to its owner while he is watching television, cooking, or strolling on the terrace, thus making them a great companion. Though, they are goofy and playful and are good at swimming, fetching and running, and would constantly amuse its family. Bernedoodles have a special fondness for cold weather. Care Exercise Bernedoodles need regular exercise. Because these dogs have a laid-back temperament, they do need regular exercise, but to a moderate amount, to burn down their calories for a sound health and mental fitness. Take them out for walks for 30 minutes to one hour daily. You can also utilize their fondness for running and playing by taking them out for jogging, and allowing them to play in an enclosed yard. Participate in games like throw and fetch, or allow them to swim. In short, keep them engaged in regular activities. Grooming The amount of shedding directly depends on the type of coat your dog has inherited. Those that have straighter type are prone to shed comparatively more. But they do not need frequent brushing to prevent matting. However, at times, you might want to enjoy the bonding time of brushing. You can clip your dog every months. If your dog is curly, it sheds very less or nominal. So brush it at least four to five times a week to prevent matting. Also, take them to professional grooming once in months. But begin grooming only after your puppy is done with its complete set of vaccinations by age 3 to 4 months. Its ears are hairy. So keep an eye for infections, redness or rashes. Health Problems As a very new breed, little is known about the health of the bernedoodle. No serious diseases or breed-specific issues have been reported. In fact, they are healthier than their parent breeds. But general dog health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and skin problems including hot spots, allergies, etc. Training Considering their intelligence and interactive nature, your puppies would briskly pick up all that you teach them. However, if bernedoodles not trained properly, they can easily become neurotic and hyper. Teach them the difference between right and wrong. But train them in a gentle way. So the same diet routine is okay with your dog as well. However, if you are making your own recipe, you can choose rice both white and brown as a single protein source. They are picky eaters. For a change in taste, try variations adding yogurt, boiled sweet potato or pumpkin. These are a good option. Other sources for both flavor and health, serve your dog with cottage cheese, tofu, baby food, or boiled chicken or turkey, boiled liver, boiled hamburger. They can also make good watchdogs. She is has become my sweetest little photo drop in, and with all the questions I receive, I decided it was time to give Penny the spotlight she deserves. I will talk about the good — and the bad — of owning a Berniedoodle, and will help you know exactly what you need to do to prepare adding a fur ball to your family. This post may contain affiliate links — shopping those links is at no cost to you, and I am incredibly thankful for all the support it gives me family. This post has been updated as of September .I know what you are thinking. What the heck is a Berniedoodle exactly? Bernedoodles are a Bernes Mountain Dog Poodle mix. Bernedoodles are not a purebred dog breed, but rather a mix breed of 2 purebred dogs. Bernedoodles have many perks of both breeds which make them enticing to so many including us to own. Berniedoodles boast non shedding hair, a loving temperament and the distinct coloring of a Bernese Mountain Dog all mixed into one! Bernedoodle Temperament I think most people know they are looking at a doodle for some of the perks that poodles offer. Shedding, for example is one such perk. But one thing you are probably curious about is the temperament of a Bernedoodle. Bernedoodles typically get much of the good from both breeds when it comes to their temperament. They tend to be affectionate and playful, yet highly intelligent and hard working, if trained correctly. All in all, Bernedoodles are wonderful family dogs who are great with children, and love to be around their owners. They are an incredibly loyal breed as well. We tend to say that Penny thinks she is a lapdog, although is not the size of one! She is roughly 45 lbs, which is very average for a full grown female Bernedoodle. Below is a good gauge of size for a Berniedoodle based on the size you get and the gender. Keep in mind that you can ask a breeder more about the anticipated size based on past litters or the size of the parents. Bernedoodles come in 4 different sizes: Tiny, Miniature, Medium and Standard. This is based on the size of the poodle that is the parent. For all size ranges the males tend to be larger. Standard Bernedoodle size 70 to 90 pounds Medium Bernedoodle size 50 to 70 pounds Miniature Bernedoodle size 25 to 49 pounds Tiny Bernedoodle size 10 to 24 pounds — mixed with a toy poodle One thing you will find when looking for Bernedoodles is discrepancies in the medium and standard sizes. Penny is standard, however she is only about 50 lbs. Bernedoodle Appearance When you are talking about a mix breed dog in general, you will typically get a bit of a range in terms of the appearance of the dog. Your breeder should have pictures of past litters from the parent dogs which will give you a good idea of the dogs coat. Some Bernedoodles have a more curly coat, while others are a bit more straight or wavy. The wavier hair is coming from the Bernese Mountain Dog parent and the curly hair comes from the Poodle parent. A Bernedoodle coat can also come in a variety of colors. A tri-color Bernedoodle has 3 different colors in their coat. However it should be advised that many times as the Bernedoodle grows that brown coloring will fade and go away. What It Is Really Like To Own A Bernedoodle You are likely reading this post because you want to hear from a real dog owner about what it is like to own a Bernedoodle, instead of reading all the stats. Maybe you are already getting your Bernedoodle, or trying to decide if it is the right breed for you. Either way, I hope this post is helpful for you! Penny is our 9 month old F1 Bernedoodle. This means that as a puppy she had three color markings that are seen on a Bernese Mountain Dog. She is fluffy, with a wavy coat. She has the biggest paws I have ever seen, and has quickly learned to rule our house! Penny is our first doodle. We knew we wanted a non shedding dog, and we will never go back after how much we love her! She is such a good dog even for her puppy age, and even with her down sides. Yes, they do exist! She has been a wonderful addition to our family. Of course everyone wants to know what type of dog is Penny? Once they find out she is a Bernedoodle, it generally leads to even more questions regarding her breed. Some of those questions are the same questions I personally wondered about when we were looking at getting a Bernedoodle puppy. What Makes A Bernedoodle Special? Bernedoodles are a designer breed. With several designer breeds becoming increasingly popular over the past decades, Poodle mixes are hight on that list. Poodle mixes are loved for their size, temperament, non-shedding abilities. Of course each mixed breed and dog is different, Penny boasts all of these qualities. People are willing to pay top dollar for doodles in general, and Bernedoodle puppies are no different. Most breeders charge a higher amount per color marking. In other words, a single color Bernedoodle puppy is less expensive than a tri-color Bernedoodle. Bernedoodle puppies are one of the most expensive of the doodle breeds due to the highly coveted color markings. Tri-color coated Bernedoodles are the most coveted and typically the most expensive. You need to be cautious and do your homework before you pick out a breeder. The high cost of a Bernedoodle puppy can lead people open to schemes, which is why it is crucial you find a reputable breeder. If the breeder has a list of references, this is even better. You should be able to talk to other families who have bought from the breeder before to ask questions. Tip 3: Meet The Parents If possible always try to meet the parents and visit the breeder in person. This way you can see the conditions of where the pets are living and how they are being treated. This will also give you time to ask plenty of questions. A common health problem known as hip dysplasia is a condition that is typically seen in Bernedoodles. I searched both online and Instagram. The wait times tend to be long, so you may have to get on a waitlist well before you are ready to bring a puppy home. We personally drove across several states to get our sweet Penny, and have friends that have traveled far as well. If you are interested in our breeder you can check them out here! We decided that the long wait was more painful than the long drive and we wanted a breeder we felt good with, so we knew we would get a healthy puppy. Training Bernedoodle Puppies Can I be honest? Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs. Bringing her home actually reminded me of bringing home a baby. Super sleepy and well behaved for a minute, then they turn into the needy baby. That meant teaching her to sleep in her kennel at night, and go in her kennel when we are gone. I was convinced we would be up all night from the start, but she slept through the night well from day one! When we first began, we opted to keep her crate farther away from the bedrooms so everyone would sleep well. She let us know when she was awake and did bark when she was first put to bed. We also opted to keep a sound machine in the room for white noise. This helped her not hear us in the even we had to get up with any kids. Picking The Right Crate Penny uses this crate, and has since being a puppy. As a new puppy we were able to put the divider in to make it feel smaller and more cozy. Now, she sleeps in it without the divider. When she was small we put towels down for her to sleep on so they were easy to clean. She treats towels like a baby blanket and drags it out to lay on, so we ended up giving her a blanket at about 7 months old. Buy the dog crate we love for Penny here! Now, she sleeps in our bed or her dog bed. Her dog bed is washable and is the perfect blend of cozy and stylish. Buy her dog bed here — I love how this looks, but it also washes well in the machine. Potty Training Bernedoodle Puppies Because puppies typically do a great job at not having accidents in their crate, that is a good step in getting them house broken. Then after another week or so, she became completely house broken. We were VERY careful not to allow her to be in any room unattended. When puppies are unattended, you can expect accidents. Following her cues was very helpful in establishing a schedule. Just like potty training a toddler, puppies too give off body signals to alert you that they need to go. Once we realized those cues and timing, potty training was set. Lastly, in the event of an accident, Penny is placed in her kennel instead of taking her outside once we knew she knew it was wrong. We attempted a 2 week, all day, training session. No Dogs On The Furniture? However, I lost that fight, fast. She loves to be on furniture and sometimes even tries to be on my lap. A Teething Bernedoodle Puppy A teething puppy can be rough. Puppies tend to nip and chew on anything they can sink their teeth into- even if that means a finger or two. The kids quickly learned not to play near her mouth. We keep these bully sticks on hand. Honestly, it is an investment because she goes through them really fast. It has been the best thing for keeping her from chewing on anything in our home or from nipping, which will lessen with time. How To Curb Jumping? Jumping has been our hardest behavior to curb for Penny. She is a big dog and is very strong. Jumping has been our biggest hurdle to work through and it is a continual work in progress. I think for most bigger dogs, this is a difficult behavior to address. Bernedoodles are especially prone to jumping due to their affectionate nature. They want to jump for love just to be in your space. These photos were at roughly 6 months old and in dire need of a grooming Barking Problems I am often asked if Penny barks a lot. From time to time, she will bark in her kennel for 10 seconds to remind us she wants out, but by no means is barking in excess. Bernedoodle Grooming Bernedoodles are considered a hypoallergenic breed of dog that does not shed. That said, they do shed SOME just like you do as a human. Penny by no means sheds on our clothes or our furniture. We from time to time do find a little fluff of hair against the baseboards, but for the most part have noticed no major shedding. Our oldest son is also allergic to dogs, and has done very well with Penny. Shedding dogs give him hives and Penny has not done that for Jack. Even with minimal shedding, Bernedoodles do have to be groomed. We take Penny to be groomed where we have them do the whole nine yards, including cutting her hair. Between the grooming sessions we also do a few things to take care of her at home. However, she still requires regular grooming appointments and brushing at home. The more often you brush your Bernedoodle, the more used to it they will get so they handle it better. Toy for cleaning teeth — We try to brush Pennys teeth, but also have opted to use this toy with toothpaste. Greenies Bones — We also give Penny Greenies bones every few days which helps keep her breath fresh and her teeth clean. Shampoo — Although we get Penny groomed it is great to bathe your Bernedoodle at home from time to time. Paw Cleaner — This has been one of my favorite purchases with Penny. You fill it with water and clean their paws when they come in when it is muddy. We keep it by the back door for stormy days and it has been so helpful! Bernedoodle Play and Socialization So how much attention does a Bernedoodle really need? Puppies will always need socialization and attention. Penny, however, is easy to please. Throwing a ball for her outside is a great way to entertain her. As with most big dog breeds one of the best ways to handle energy levels is to take them on a daily walk. Long walks take time for them to be ready for in terms of obedience, but overall we have found that slowly walking more has been the best way for her. She is much more well behaved when slightly worn out. Of course, if you need assistance in getting energy out, a puppy daycare is a great option for socialization and to fill those exercise needs. Penny loves other dogs and enjoys playing. We have 4 little ones at home and their safety is our biggest concern. That said we also have taught them to respect Penny in return. We allow Penny to eat on her own and although sometimes the kids do interrupt, we try to encourage them to leave her be. She is incredibly loving with the kids. While she can be somewhat rambunctious, overall, she is very sweet and gentle with our crew. Bernedoodles lean to the side of wild and goofy with their highly affectionate personality. You can expect that they will be very playful with the kids and a great addition to your family. Bernedoodles are a great choice for allergy sufferers Affectionate in nature Longer lifespan with most Bernedoodles living from 12 years old Cons At times overly affectionate and hyper Tendency to jump Chewing as a puppy that needs to be occupied with Bully sticks and toys Can have some separation anxiety High exercise needs — Bernedoodles are very active dogs that will be happier pets if you give them adequate excerise. Overall Bernedoodles are a healthy breed that makes a great family pet. They are beautiful dogs with big personalities and are an excellent choice if you are looking for a loyal dog for your family. We LOVE Penny and feel incredibly lucky that we chose a breed that has turned out to be such a great blessing for us. So if you are looking for a good choice of dog to be the perfect family dog then I think you will be beyond thrilled with a Bernedoodle. Medium Bernedoodle Trainability Both the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent and eager to satisfy their human companions, so naturally, the Bernedoodle will be too. For those educating themselves, training can be a piece of cake. In simpler terms, these are happy, highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and will usually adopt skills quickly. On the other hand, many say Bernedoodles can be stubborn. Does this change anything? The same psychological principles apply to all dogs. In the end, dog training is almost always more about the handler learning the correct ways to train dogs in his or her care. Bernedoodles are just as capable of learning perhaps more as any other dog. Socialise your Bernedoodle. Berners are widely known for their goofy, playful attitudes especially with children. However, unfortunate dogs that are never socialized are powerful enough to cause great bodily harm to those they deem as threats. Like many other giant breeds, Bernedoodles will usually be happy with moderate exercise. You could probably get away with two relatively quick walks daily. They do need mental stimulation though. These dogs are smart. Consider the original breed qualities. Of course every dog, just like every human, is different. Leadership Sure, the novice would-be dog owner might see one of these adorable, playful dogs. They might hear about all of these amazing qualities, like high intelligence, cuddly affection, or affinity for human family members. Does this mean they are great for first-time dog owners? Bernedoodles also need a handler who understands early canine socialization, preferably one who has done this multiple times with other dogs. Do Bernedoodles Need Haircuts? Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles are still half Bernese and can shed quite a lot. There are few guarantees with mixed breed pups. Thanks to their Poodle genetics, Bernedoodles will only have a single undercoat that will shed depending on how much of those genetics came from the Poodle parent. In the end, all dogs will give off dander; there is no eliminating that completely. Compare the two breeds below. It has a bright natural sheen. Extremely curly or extremely dull-looking coats are undesirable. Your pet will probably shed, depending on how much Bernedoodle DNA was inherited, but not as much as the parent breed himself. Yes or No to Haircuts? This thick coat also affords protection from harmful UV rays and guards against insect bites. They can have one single undercoat. On the other hand, Bernedoodles will usually only have a single undercoat, thanks to their Poodle genetics. The coat type will often depend on the litter generation since breeders are able to better select for desired traits the further they go. The later the generation i. How Big Do Bernedoodles Get? Imagine mixing a medium-large breed lbs. The size of your puppies will fall between those limits, but the end result will probably depend on what percentage of either dog went into the mixture. The Standard Bernedoodle will usually weigh lbs kg with an average height of inches cm. This is nothing more than an average, and your Bernedoodle could end up weighing in at over a hundred pounds or less if you have a slender Poodle. Cost — Why are Bernedoodles so Expensive? Your first answer is very simple. People like rare and large dogs, and will pay more for them. Tri-color coats are in the highest demand. Continuous cross-breeding of existing crosses will increase likelihood of medical problems, so breeding is a slower process. Your price will increase with breeder reputation. In this case, smaller Bernedoodles tend to be more difficult often bred by using artificial insemination to breed and will cost more. The table here assumes your Bernedoodle is standard. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bernedoodle Overview The Bernedoodle is a companion dog, through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits, and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. That said, fans of Bernedoodles adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They also tend to be more hypoallergenic, which is a blessing for allergy sufferers. In addition to their personalities, Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight and come in a variety of colors. They come in three sizes; tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk. Bernedoodle Highlights Gentle and loving: Bernedoodles are known for their gentle and loving personalities. They are good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable: Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to perform more complex tasks. Hypoallergenic: Bernedoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to shed and cause allergies in people. Active but adaptable: Bernedoodles are active dogs that need a moderate amount of exercise. However, they are also adaptable and can do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Loyal and devoted: Bernedoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and love to cuddle. If you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle may be the right breed for you. Here are some additional details about the Bernedoodle breed: Size: Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 90 pounds. Lifespan: Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Coat: Bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat that can be either single- or double-coated. Colors: Bernedoodles can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. Bernedoodles are a relatively new breed, so there is still some debate about their exact origins. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the early s. The goal was to create a dog that was hypoallergenic and had the best qualities of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Bernedoodles are becoming increasingly popular dogs. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They are also a good choice for people with allergies. If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Bernedoodle History The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. While this is considered a designer breed, they do appear in shelters, and rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs will sometimes work with mixes of those breeds. There is no reason that you have to rely on a breeder for a Bernedoodle, and you should always adopt before shopping. Bernedoodle Size There are three sizes of Bernedoodle: tiny, miniature, and standard. These result from the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard size. The Tiny Bernedoodle stands at 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs about 10 to 24 pounds. The Miniature Bernedoodle stands at 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 pounds. The Standard Bernedoodle stands at 23 to 29 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. Bernedoodle Personality Bernedoodles seem to get many of the best personality traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. Exactly which traits they inherit from their parents can differ a bit, though, and individual personalities of dogs within the breed vary. Bernedoodles tend to be highly intelligent, hardworking when necessary, loyal, and just a bit goofy. They are good with children and other dogs, provided they have been well socialized. Once they begin training, their intelligence helps them pick up commands more easily than other dogs. Bernedoodles can have high energy levels and crave attention and at least moderate exercise. They do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles do better with apartment and city life than Standard Bernedoodles. Generally, they want nothing more than to be with their humans and are just as ready to go outside and play with them as they are to join them on the couch for cuddles. Bernedoodle Health Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, including: Hip dysplasia : This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia : This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. Hereditary cataracts : These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Demodex mange : This is a skin condition caused by mites. Inflammatory bowel disease IBD : This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Hypothyroidism : This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is important to take your Bernedoodle to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these health problems so that you can seek treatment promptly if necessary. Here are some tips for keeping your Bernedoodle healthy: Feed them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. Keep them at a healthy weight. Brush their teeth regularly. Take them to the vet for regular checkups. By following these tips, you can help your Bernedoodle live a long and healthy life. Bernedoodle Care Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. They love being around their humans, so the less time they spend alone, the better. Like Poodles, Bernedoodles are quite intelligent, which means they can learn bad habits just as easily as good ones. It is important to keep up with training. Early socialization and exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea and will help keep them well-behaved when meeting new people or pets. Bernedoodle Feeding The appropriate amount to feed a Bernedoodle depends on their size, age, and activity level, which means it is highly individualized. You should ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that suit your particular dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well. The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Bernedoodle Children And Other Pets Bernedoodles are excellent for families with children, though it is always important to make sure children are instructed on how to properly treat animals, especially with Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles that may be injured more easily. This breed is affectionate and loves to play, and they absolutely adore spending time with their families. Bernedoodles usually do well with other dogs, but it is important to begin socialization at an early age and keep up with it to make sure they are comfortable around new animals. Bernedoodle Rescue Groups Please search your local area for Bernedoodle up for adoption. Bernedoodle Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues More Info For You. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful?

Known as an affectionate loyal dog, these dogs can often be found in the home of city- dwellers worldwide. They are also an incredibly intelligent breed and their alertness makes them an excellent watchdog, provided you train diligently with the best training treats. Because of their natural body built and nutritional needs, it is vital to provide your bulldog with a balanced diet. Since these pups love to run around and live a fun lifestyle, look for products that are high in protein and low in fat, like our Pawstruck Lamb Ears , to ensure your pups have all the energy and fuel they need without packing on any unwanted fluff. In addition, Frenchies are prone to obesity and skin allergies. Unfortunately, their sweet squashed face means they need smaller pieces that are easy to swallow, ideally with low calories per treat. In addition, keep an eye out for dog products that contain wheat and corn, which trigger an allergic reaction. Avoid overly processed foods and simple carbs which can cause excess inflammation in the joints and add to unwanted body fat. That's why we took the guesswork out of our product inventory and rounded up the best dog treats for French Bulldogs. You can rest assured that all of these make great choices for your precious pooch! That's why we offer auto delivery on most of our French Bulldog products: to help you save time while enjoying your favorite products. Just indicate how often you want us to deliver your products and we'll make sure they get there on time! We also are proud to offer a bulk discount on many of our dog products to help you save more on large orders. Buy in bulk and save! I've found the best prices on bully sticks and other all-natural chews at Pawstruck. The braided bully sticks are insane! The only thing we have to worry about is keeping our puppy from hoarding all the chews and making him share.I have to play referee to make sure he plays nice with his fur brother! The treats are made of various natural ingredients without any artificial flavors or colors. They are made from natural, high-quality ingredients, including lamb meat, yogurt, apples, honey, peanut butter, and bananas. They are oven-baked, so they have the perfect texture for dogs that prefer crunchy treats over soft or moist ones. However, they might be too hard for some dogs to chew. They are suitable for dogs of all ages, even for French Bulldog puppies, but you might need to soften them a little. One of the main ingredients is the real chicken liver which will add a tasty flavor for the dog to make it more pleasant to consume on a daily basis. They can also be used as a reward when training the puppies to display good behavior. These bits will be easy for the puppies to chew and digest. They are available in an array of flavors, such as real chicken, real beef flavor, salmon, turkey, chicken and beef, and beef, chicken, turkey, and salmon together. They are free from allergens such as corn, wheat, and soy and free from artificial additives like colors and flavors. Dog treats can be given to your French Bullie for a variety of reasons, including as a tool to train them, something to keep them occupied and out of trouble or simply to make them happy and content. Veterinarian Dr. Rachel Barrack will tell you that no treats are the best treats to give your dog because they should instead be given a healthy, nutritious diet that helps control their weight. Her colleague Dr. That sounds like a lot of thinking for a simple dog treat! They include several store-bought brands and also a few, non-processed options that you can make at home yourself. All will make your French Bulldog very happy and content. Even better, apples have natural sugars for energy but have absolutely no fat, salt or added chemicals. One thing to keep in mind is that the seeds of an apple are unhealthy, so you should cut the apple into slices and remove them before giving them to your canine companion. They are high in biotin, copper, fiber and potassium though, so do give them as a treat once in a while. They can be given right out of the peel or, if you want to give your Frenchie something that will occupy them a bit longer, frozen in medium-sized chunks. You can also steam them to make them softer and serve them warm or cold. The reason is that cucumbers are very, very low in fat, carbs and oil. That means no extra weight gain and, in most cases, extra energy, which will help your pet to lose even more weight. Besides that, celery is loaded with vitamins A, B and C and has a lot of other ingredients that scientists believe can help fight cancer and help their heart to be healthier. The recipes below are from a few different websites and so we will talk a little about the treat and then give you a link to visit the site and get the recipe. Beef broth, peanut butter and flaxseed are the main ingredients, along with oats and whole wheat flour. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to make them, including cooking time! Homemade Dog Biscuits 3- Frozen Apple Dog Treats If cooling your bulldog buddy down during summer is your goal while also giving him or her a healthy treat, these Frozen Apple treats are the ticket! Many are loaded with sugars and corn syrup and thus not recommended. This recipe, however, combines 2 simple ingredients that have almost no sugar at all. Even better, it only takes 15 minutes or so to make and bake, for a treat even your diabetic French bulldog will love. They have no artificial colors or flavors too, which is great, and have turmeric which is wonderful for older dogs as it can reduce inflammation. They are excellent for training and for smaller dog breeds, thus great for French bulldogs. These treats have only beef liver, an ideal source of protein for any dog. They are, however, packed with all sorts of great ingredients like Omega 3 and 6 essential oils, zinc, potassium and numerous vitamins. They contain melatonin. Conclusion Giving your French bulldog a treat when training, when they behave or just as a nice little gesture is a great idea. The treats above should help you do just that! If you have any questions or want to leave a comment please do in the space provided, and best of luck finding a treat your French Bulldog likes best! The first thing to think about is why you need treats. On the other hand, treats meant more for entertainment might mean something big and yummy to keep your dog occupied for a while. Another important decision is whether to go with crunchy or chewy treats. Some dogs prefer one or the other. Soft treats are often easy to break in half if needed. Some chewy treats are sticky enough that it takes some time for your dog to eat them. Look for high-quality proteins in the top ingredients—most treats use meat, although a few healthy treats use peanut butter or other protein options. Whole grains like oats, corn, and barley are generally healthy for your dog. Finding a flavor that motivates your dog can be tricky. Some of the most common flavors are beef, chicken, and salmon. The most common allergens in dogs are meat sources, so it might take some experimenting to find a protein type your dog loves and digests well. Once you get working, consistency is key to teaching your dog good behavior. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.

Visit our instagram page or send us a message through facebook, instagram, or text. If you don't find the puppy you're looking for in our Available Puppies section, please contact us. We might have some younger or newborn babies with the traits you want! Our prices are shown as Pet prices family dog and companion pet , but if you're a breeder and you want to add one of our puppies to your program we also offer full breeding rights AKC registration. However, depending on age, some puppies may need vaccine reinforcements after purchase and delivery. Buyers are also responsible for providing the rabies vaccine, which must be administered at 5 months of age. Deposits are non-refundable, but can be transferred to another available puppy of your choosing if you change your mind. Be aware that some apps have a daily limit and we will need the entire payment before you can keep the puppy. All sales are final. For Texas-based dog lovers, we can meet halfway depending on your location. If you are out of state we offer airport pickups or nanny service for full delivery. We can always arrange transport to help you get your perfect puppy anywhere you are. Contact us by phone, message, Facebook, Social Media or email. All social media is linked below! Although spaying or neutering is not compulsory, it is highly advisable to spay your French Bulldog. This will help to decrease its chances of getting certain kinds of cancer. It also prevents the risk of unwanted breeding between your French Bulldog and any nearby dog. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? French Bulldogs have the potential to be aggressive. However, they are not usually aggressive unless they are trained that way. It is important to note that they may show aggression towards other dogs or smaller animals. Owners should watch out for signs of aggression and nip them in the bud. What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog? With a proper diet and nutrition, French Bulldogs can live for up to eleven or thirteen years. Can French Bulldogs eat raw meat? French Bulldogs can eat raw meat such as chicken, liver or kidney. They could also eat canned, dry food. What is the difference between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog? French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are quite similar but different at the same time. English bulldogs are bigger while the French Bulldog is considerably smaller. French Bulldogs also have upright pointy ears whereas the English breed has folded ears. Do I have to worry about fleas with French Bulldogs? Just like all other breeds, French Bulldogs can get fleas. If they do get fleas, this can be solved by getting flea medicine or using a flea comb to get rid of the fleas. How do you deal with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are very prone to separation anxiety. To curb this, owners can crate train their dogs or provide them with chew toys. What is the best way to train your French Bulldog? Crate training is one of the best ways to train your French Bulldog. It helps to create good and positive behavior in your Frenchie and could be a fun place for it to rest. Are French Bulldogs children-friendly? French Bulldogs are not the best option for kids. However, if they grow up surrounded by children, the risk could be lessened. They should not be left unsupervised around kids. How big are French Bulldogs? The French Bulldog is about 11 or 12 inches tall and weighs an average of pounds. Are you interested in purchasing a French Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Adoptable Animals Thank you for choosing adoption! If you're interested in one of our adoptable animals listed below, you can speed up the adoption process by filling out an online adoption questionnaire. Once submitted, the online application will be emailed to our adoption office. Paper applications are available at the adoption office. If you have any questions, stop by our facility, email us , or give us a call at .If you are looking for your lost pet, click here. Step 1 View available pets online under "Adoptable Animals. If the location or bio of the pet you are interested in says "foster," it is not at the shelter, so please email foster sanmarcostx. Step 2 Come by the shelter during our open hours, call , or email animaladoptions sanmarcostx. Before heading to the shelter, please check online to verify your top picks are still available. If they are not, we can still help find what you're looking for. Adopters need to show a valid, Government-Issued I. Adopters will have a conversation with our adoption counselors and volunteers regarding the best pet options for you. While there is nothing that prohibits pets being kept primarily outdoors, you must have proper fencing and outside housing ready for your pet to keep it protected from the heat and inclement weather. Pets are almost always happier inside with their family. Renters should confirm pet policies with their landlord or property manager. If a pet is returned because the landlord would not allow it, the adoption fee will not be refunded. We have answers. All you need to do is take a look at the gorgeous San Antonio French Bulldogs for sale on our site, plus expand your search to cover other areas of the US if you like. If you see a puppy you like the look of, simply connect with the business posting the add and take it from there. What kind of dog is a French Bulldog? The French Bulldog puppies for sale San Antonio on Uptown are tiny little dogs with big personalities. These little dogs are a little bit silly, a lot affectionate, and masters at getting their owners to obey their every bark! French Bulldog puppies San Antonio are descended from the larger English Bulldog, but these days Frenchies are way more popular! Why are French Bulldogs expensive? French Bulldog breeders in San Antonio and anywhere else need to include a few extra steps in their breeding programs compared to most other breeds. The small pelvis of a Frenchie means that firstly, thay have to be artificially inseminated and secondly, puppies must be born by C-section. The higher price of Frenchie puppies compared to other breeds is down to these extra expenses that French Bulldog breeders San Antonio have to cover. Can I meet my puppy before I buy them? How do you deal with transparency of breeders of French Bulldogs for sale in San Antonio? We check that each business with French Bulldogs for sale San Antonio meets our high standards. How do I know my puppy will be healthy? The companies we work with are fully committed to taking care of their puppies' health. That means each pup will have a full veterinary examination, from their sweet nose to the tip of their tail, and you can get copies of their results. Of course, we always recommend taking your puppy for a checkup with your local veterinarian once you welcome them home. Do you recommend a specific type of food for French Bulldogs? Some pups may need a diet formulation, others will be just fine with a standard, high-quality brand. Do you sell cheap puppies? None of the companies in our network set out to produce cheap puppies. How much exercise does a French Bulldog need? Between 20 to 30 minutes exercise per day will be enough for these little pups. The flat face of Frenchies means they can have trouble breathing in hot or humid weather, so shorter walks and more time in a cool space is required in summer. Is the French Bulldog a good family dog? Each French Bulldog for sale San Antonio is waiting to find their forever family. These affectionate pups love plenty of cuddles, and to be involved in every adventure their family takes. However, no dog is perfect! Of course! She is comical, lively, and she thrives on human companionship. Minimal exercise needs and a low barking tendency make her perfect for apartment living. The breed has flourished as an adored companion eversince. The Frenchie is known for its bat-like ears and short, wrinkled nose. She tends to have a curious and gentle nature and is notorious for being the class clown. She will often have sporadic bouts of energy followed by prolonged periods of resting. The French Bulldog is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your French Bulldog. By knowing about health concerns specific to French Bulldogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in French Bulldogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for French Bulldogs. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Frenchie looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your French Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections French Bulldogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in French Bulldogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your French Bulldog is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Intervertebral disc disease. Note how the cushion of the disc materal has extruded and puts pressure on the spinal nerves. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump up, go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even drag his back feet or be suddenly paralyzed and unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. As with so many other diseases, weight control helps to prevent this problem. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Inflammatory Bowel Disease or IBD is an immune system disorder common in French Bulldogs in which the intestinal lining becomes overrun with immune system cells called lymphocytes and plasmacytes. Chronic vomiting or diarrhea is common or it may flare up suddenly and then improve again for a time. Stress, diet change, or intestinal parasites may make it worse. If your friend has diarrhea or digestive upsets that are not explained by the more common reasons, diagnostic tests, which may include intestinal biopsy, will be needed. Lifetime medications and special diets are usually required to keep this bellyache under control. Unfortunately, French Bulldogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older French Bulldogs. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your French Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Notice how the lower lid curls in towards the surface of the eye to cause irritation. Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea surface of the eyeball. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness. It can happen in any dog breed; however, your French Bulldog is especially at risk for this heritable disorder. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early. Because your Frenchie has eyeballs that naturally protrude, he is more vulnerable to eye injuries. Scrapes or punctures to the cornea the protective covering on the eyeball are the most common injuries. Not only do they hurt, they can become infected and affect his vision. Call us right away if he has any problems with his eyes. A damaged cornea is painful and should be treated immediately. Medication and sometimes surgery is required. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Spinal Deformities French Bulldogs are more likely than other canines to be born with spinal deformities a condition called hemivertebrae , which may lead to spinal cord damage, instability, or disability. Bleeding Disorders There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders which occur in dogs. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result. You might notice that he runs along and suddenly picks up a back leg and skips or hops for a few strides. If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your friend may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from popping out of place. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Narrow nostril openings make breathing air in more challenging. Respiratory Distress Syndrome This disease, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose, like your French Bulldog. As a consequence, the soft palate the soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth , is too long and hangs down into the airway. The nostrils are often too small, and sometimes the trachea, or windpipe, is narrow and undersized. All of these things lead to a narrow and obstructed airway. Many of these dogs can barely breathe! Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. With his short nose, he is also more likely to develop other problems, such as flatulence from excessive air intake, pneumonia from aspirating food, or heat stroke. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended. Bladder or Kidney Stones There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and French Bulldogs are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Call us immediately! It affects French Bulldogs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs and will eventually suffer from paralysis in his hindquarters, along with incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture, and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. A microscopic image of a Demodex mite. Mange Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. All dogs have them. In mild cases, pet owners may notice a few dry, irritated, hairless lesions. These often occur on the face or feet and may or may not be itchy. Secondary skin infections may occur. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management. Skin Infections Your French Bulldog is prone to a form of skin infection called lip-fold pyoderma, which occurs because the folds of skin along the lower jaw are usually moist. Bacteria and yeast can readily gain a foothold and cause a reddened, smelly area that is uncomfortable for your dog. We will examine him for this problem, but let us know if you see signs. When symptoms are severe, the excess skin folds can be surgically removed. Taking Care of Your French Bulldog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Frenchie live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She has low grooming needs. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Check her facial wrinkles and eyes often. Her droopy skin and eyes can collect debris. She is well suited for apartment living; she will need a daily walk and regular inside play. She can be sensitive to warm temperatures; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your French Bulldog needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your French Bulldog counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.

Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. A thick-bellied and thick-legged cub of a Shepherd color with a long tail and dense fur can only be finally classified as purebred when the ears of a German Shepherd puppy stand up. The ears of a true German Shepherd are, according to the standard, erect, of the medium size, set high, with the ends directed forward and up, and not adjacent to the skull on both sides, even when a Shepherd dog is in motion or presses its ears or lowers them in a calm position. When German Shepherd ears stand up when excited, the distance between their highest points tips should visually equal the width of the auricle. Since the range of frequencies heard by a dog is much higher than that of a human, a German Shepherd determines the source of the sound and its direction and location instantly and accurately due to such an auricle at a distance of m depending on the pitch of the sound. Moreover, a Shepherd can hear the peals of thunder or the sound of a working chainsaw at a distance of km. The lowest sound for a human is 16 Hz, while the highest one is 20 thousand Hz. The upper limit of frequency fluctuations perceived by a GS dog as a sound is thousand Hz. Clear hearing is especially important for a German Shepherd as for a dog with high service qualities and no less high requirements for its work. Sensitive ears allow not only for relying on a Shepherd dog as an excellent guard but also for guiding it at great distances, giving commands at frequencies that are not perceived by the human ear or in an undertone. Their small ears are also imperfect — they are rather soft due to the underdeveloped cartilage that makes up the auricle. That is why there are separate German Shepherd puppy ears stages when they start standing up. The cartilaginous plate is covered on both sides with a layer of thin connective tissue that provides the main cartilage with growth and nutrition and is called the perichondrium. The perichondrium, on the contrary, is dotted with mini-hematopoietic capillaries and blood vessels. Through them, the cartilage receives necessary substances for its growth and compaction with the help of conventional diffusion literally, penetration by contact. In the same way, the ear cartilage of a GS dog is built on, and the perichondrium has semi-stem cells which, like bricks, are built into the cartilage tissue. Cartilage cells, in turn, produce collagen and elastin. This is due to the active work of all parts of the auricle cartilage and perichondrium. Up to 4 months, cartilage tissues are especially active, but by the fifth month, the growth of elastic layers and the embedding of stem cells decreases. Having reached a certain density, ear growth slows down, and in a short time, it almost diminishes. The metabolism in the auricle becomes so low that visually the ear seems to no longer grow. However, limited living processes in it continue throughout life. Otherwise, it would be impossible to restore the tissues of the German Shepherd puppy ears in case of damage. To do this, you need to feed the puppy a balanced diet with enough calcium and phosphorus. Excess calcium and phosphorus can adversely affect the formation of the ear cartilage and the development of the musculoskeletal system of a German Shepherd. We must not forget about the composition of the blood because it is the main food for the growth and strengthening of the cartilage plate due to the diffuse contact with it via the perichondrium. Not only nutrition but also the obligatory physical activity of a German Shepherd puppy, both at home and on walks , help improve the blood supply to the perichondrium. Under such keeping conditions, the ears of the Shepherd stand up on time and additional actions on the part of an owner are not required. The optimal age when the ears should stand up is 5 months. Do not be afraid if the ears are 1. This sometimes happens. You need to worry if the puppy is already 8 months old, and the ears still do not rise. If at the age of 12 months, the ears are still not on top, the question of a purebred puppy will emerge. Teeth and Ears It often happens that at 2- 3 months the ears of a Shepherd stood up, and at 4 they fell one or two at once This is a normal process associated with the change of teeth, when the body mobilizes all the microelements to build a strong dental system, pulling phosphorus and calcium front he cartilage in this direction. At the same time, the drooping ears should stand up. Hurry up! After a year, hopes to put up ears in a German Shepherd are melting exponentially. There may be, for example, a birthing crease, subluxation, or hematoma as a result of injury to the ear canal. Has your dog ever had ear infections or other ear problems? They can involve inflammation of the middle ear, otodectosis, or a forest tick attack. Have you noticed any allergic reactions in your pet? It may be allergic to dairy products or antibiotics. If antibiotics or immunomodulators were used, what did your dog get sick with, and how often? Infectious diseases significantly inhibit the development of a Shepherd dog and slow down growth and physiological formation, including cartilage tissues. The latter is in charge of whether the ears of a GS puppy will stand up or it will remain floppy-eared. In what conditions is the young Shepherd kept? When living in an aviary, a dog must have a warmed booth in winter to avoid hypothermia of the ears, leading to spasms of small vessels of the perichondrium and a dense canopy from the sun in summer — overheating also leads to spasms. Do you walk and talk enough to your dog? Each age demands its own supplements developed for puppies, and they are also divided by the size of the dogs: small, medium, and large dogs. The German Shepherd is a large breed! This is one of the most common problems in pedigree dogs, including German Shepherds. Diseases associated with the imbalance of hormones lead to problems with the immune system and prevent the body from proper formations of all organs and their functions. Overfeeding a German Shepherd as well as underfeeding leads to a deficiency of micro-and macroelements, which highly contributes to the timely formation of cartilage tissues by the age when the Shepherd should raise its ears. Have there been any stressful situations? Cortisol, a stress hormone, activates a defense mechanism that blocks the production of new cells including semi-stem cells in cartilage tissues , reduces blood flow, and forms a negative calcium balance in the body of a Shepherd dog. Very often, this problem is transmitted at the genetic level, and your German Shepherd floppy ears can be a result of it. When was the last vaccination administered? After vaccination, the body of a GS dog begins the active formation of immunity. The process requires the consumption of microelements and vitamins for biochemical reactions, so their deficiency is formed, similar to the condition after an illness. How often do you pet your puppy on the head? At your touch, the Shepherd dog instinctively lays its ears back, getting used to keeping them folded lengthwise from the base to the top. The result will be an acquired crease or scar along with the entire ear that keeps the German Shepherd ears down, and this will require cartilage adjustment. If the doctor sees it necessary, your pet will have to take a blood test, undergo an ultrasound, and possibly take some x-rays. Treatment Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will prescribe medicines most often — flavonoids, vitamins, glucosamine, calcitonin, thyroxine, iodine, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium , which normalize the composition of the blood and add the necessary building material to the body. It is important to carry out all the medicinal prescriptions under the supervision of a veterinarian. An overabundance of any element can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the pet and its ears in particular. In addition to medication, the doctor will most likely prescribe an ear massage at home. The massage procedure is not complicated — knead the ear from the base to the very tip between the thumb and forefinger, helping to improve blood supply, for about 5 minutes, times a day. Be careful with the place where the ear is attached to the head! This place does not need to be kneaded, only the auricle itself! Though, the most favorable result will not be long in coming — the ears of Shepherd dogs stand up in just a week or two. It is worse if the veterinarian makes a diagnosis of the atypical defect of the ear cartilage. What does it mean? Is it safe for the health of the Shepherd? And is it possible to put ears on a puppy with such a diagnosis? Atypical Cartilage and Ways to Eliminate Consequences Atypical cartilage is a defect in the development of the ear cartilage, resulting from a damaged structure of ear tissues, and their inability to support the ear in an upright position. This often occurs in young dogs after the ears have stood up, and then an ear or even two has fallen off. The same picture can be observed in old Shepherd dogs — the ear or both fall off and then rise again. The reason is the same — deformation of the ear cartilage due to long years of life at old age. However, with the old GSs, it will no longer be possible to return the ears to a stable standing position. Nevertheless, it is quite possible to correct the position of the young German Shepherd ears — they need to be glued, allowing the cartilage to recover. Gluing is nothing more than the necessary support for the intensive synthesis of elastin a connective protein in tissues and its uniform growth over the entire area of the ear cartilage. Properly glued ears do not allow creases or folds, never stretch scars, and make it possible to fill these creases with full-fledged elastin within 1. In this case, the puppy or young GS should be given maintenance vitamin supplements containing gelatin. Good results are also provided by a steep bone jelly or soaked food gelatin, 1 tbsp before every feeding. Adding bone meal and sea fish to the diet is a good solution, too! Taping Ears Correctly Since when is it worth starting the taping process? Until months of age, cartilage correction is unlikely to be needed. It is better to use the support in the form of massage and, possibly, a garter to put two ears together from months of age so that they take the correct position on the head. Feel the ear from its base to tip. If a crease or scar is found, you need to tape the ear urgently! You can watch some videos to see how to tape German Shepherd ears correctly. To correct one non-standing ear if the cartilage is even and of good density, without creases and scars, you can resort to a cardboard or plastic insert that maintains the ear in the desired position. Watch some videos to see how to do that. In any case, do not despair! David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Suffice to say that the dog has come a long way from its herding roots. Part of that perfect picture we have of these pups is the erect position of their ears. It gives them the qualities we associate with the breed, such as intelligence and confidence. Floppy ears strike us as a disconnect. These dogs have a dense coat that puts a lot of weight on their ears, relatively speaking. Also, large breeds like the German Shepherd mature more slowly than smaller dogs. It could just be a matter of time. That fact will come into play with the availability and price of the dog. It may have a disqualifying trait , such as floppy ears. This characteristic has a genetic component. Injury or Trauma Damaged the Cartilage Puppies sometimes play rough. They bite at each other, and sometimes the ears get the brunt of it. That often translates into slower healing times. Some manufactures produce tailor-made foods for specific breeds , such as the German Shepherd. That can go a long way to helping your dog recovering from an injury. It can interfere with air circulation in the ear canals, setting up the perfect storm for infections or mites. These conditions are horribly uncomfortable for your pup. Left untreated, it can cause a hematoma or swelling. This condition requires veterinary treatment. Several options exist, from aspirating or draining it to surgery. The best prevention is avoiding the conditions that caused the ear discomfort in the first place. All German Shepherds have floppy ears as puppies. The difference depends on when they start to change and stand up into their adult position. It can take several months. However, the number of adult dogs with floppy ears is about one in five. That may get its ears standing upright quicker. Taping the ears is usually part of the healing process when dogs get their ears cropped. The other concern is doing the procedure correctly. That could lead to ear trauma or a bowel obstruction if it swallows the materials. We suggest that you have your veterinarian do the job if you want to go this route. Final Thoughts The upright ears are an essential feature of the striking pose of the German Shepherd. Nature often has her plan for when that will happen in a puppy. Sometimes, it takes longer in pups with thicker fur or large ears. Healthy nutritional support will help the cartilage develop stronger and quicker. In the meantime, patience is the key. See also:. A common misconception that many people have is that German Shepherds have cropped ears that account for their erect posture. It often surprises some people to learn that the AKC standard calls for naturally erect, not cropped ears. GSD puppies are born with floppy ears set against the side of the head. As puppies mature, their ears usually start to stand up naturally. However, for various reasons, some dogs have ears that stay floppy. You can reasonably expect erect ears by around eight months old. This is because calcium that would generally nourish the ears is reallocated to the teeth during this time. You can expect the ears to become erect after the teething stops , around 20 weeks. After a puppy is no longer teething, they will start retaining enough cartilage in the ears to help hold them up. GSDs ears are heavier than they appear, and the cartilage must be sufficient to help keep that position. A sign of ears likely to stay erect are ears that become pointy once they start to stand. If your puppy reaches four or five months without any sign of the ears standing up, you might need to give them some help. When the ears are not erect by around seven or eight months, they will more than likely retain a floppy position. It is not something that is going to happen overnight. If you notice that your pup can prick their ears up or even just the tips of their ears by the time they are four to five months old, the chances are that the ears are developing normally and should become pointed without any intervention. The best thing to do is to keep your hands off their ears and avoid bending, rubbing, or folding their ears. If you notice that your German Shepherd is shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, it may be their attempt to relieve some kind of minor itchiness or irritation. However, if you notice that the head-shaking persists, then you should be concerned, especially as your pup grows. Any trauma to their ears before they reach four to five months of age can affect the cartilage and cause the ears to remain floppy rather than erect. Aural Haematoma: this is a blood blister found on the outer skin of the ear and can appear swollen. This condition is often the result of trauma due to vigorous ear shaking or a dog fight. However, if they are more serious, they will need to be removed surgically, and this can sometimes include the removal of part or all of the ear canal. If not, your pup will continue shaking their head and scratching, which can cause further injury and trauma to their ears. Skin Allergies: The head shaking and scratching may also be due to an allergy. For this, you may have to use antibiotics, antihistamines, or put your pup on a low allergy diet to treat their ears. For more information on avoiding dog ear infections and what to look for regarding causes and treatments, visit AKC. One of the more recognizable features of the German Shepherd dog breed is their large, erect ears and stoic expression. However, a lesser-known fact is that a German Shepherd puppy is born with floppy ears. So, how do you know what kind of ears your German Shepherd will have? The ears should also be pointed. If you got your German Shepherd from a reputable dog breeder, you could expect that their ears will stand erect after they are done teething. However, if you acquired your puppy from a puppy mill or there were less than desirable breeding practices or health problems, then your adult dog may end up with droopy ears. German Shepherd Ears Chart Although there is an official breed standard, in reality, German Shepherds have different types of ears, from ears that are set too high or too low to ears that are too large, asymmetrical, or too small. Some dogs even have ears pointing outwards or inwards or tilting one way. Overall, as you can see in our German Shepherd Ears Chart , there are at least 12 different types of German Shepherd ear shapes. Blood flow into the cartilage will likely increase when you do this, helping the ears keep their shape. Proper cleaning will help prevent infections that can be painful and costly to treat. Make sure you have a towel handy as you drop the ear cleaner into their ear. The towel can be used to clean up any mess as well as massage the ear cleaner solution in and around the ears. You can then use a cotton ball to remove any dirt or excess liquid. Chew Toys Sturdy chew toys will not only help keep your puppy busy but can also play a role in exercising the muscles supporting both the ears and jaws. Chewing helps with teething while also exercising their jaw and neck, and head muscles. Quality Diet The food that you feed your puppy should have high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Foods free from both wheat and corn are some of the best choices. You should also discuss supplementation with your veterinarian. Glucosamine, for example, helps to lubricate joints and supports healthy cartilage. For example, hearing certain noises that attract their attention or hearing their name can make them prick up their ears. Take advantage of this situation by praising them and providing a treat when they prick up their ears in response to this type of stimulus. They will associate pricking their ears up with getting a reward. Regularly Check for Parasites You also want to regularly check your dog out for parasites and ear mites. In addition, tapeworms and roundworms take away the essential nutrients your German Shepherd pup needs, which can ultimately cause poor health and other deficiencies. An ear mite infection can also cause your dog to itch, which causes them to shake their head excessively. Cartilage is extremely fragile and is prone to damage. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it can prove impossible for the ears to stand erect. However, keep in mind, this is invasive and does require your dog to go under anesthesia. They will also require pain medication following the surgery, and there will be a lengthy recovery time. Discuss Options with Your Vet You may want to consider having your vet make sure nothing is going on, like an ear infection. Some German Shepherds come from lines that carry genes that lead to floppier ears. Unfortunately, when genetics is the cause, there is little that owners can do aside from being more conscientious about ear health, which is a more significant concern in floppy-eared dogs. Many dogs from show lines, in particular, have larger ears that require more cartilage while the dog is growing to help support a more upright position. In many cases, these dogs will not have ears that stay upright. Broken Ear Cartilage German Shepherds can also end up with permanently floppy ears as a result of broken ear cartilage. This can happen in GSDs for a variety of reasons, including: Injuries. Well, there are a few different possible explanations. Causes can vary from age-related to genetic and medical issues. All puppies are born with soft, floppy ears. This is because the cartilage and muscles in their ears have not developed yet. Although some breeds, like Spaniels and Poodles, always have floppy ears, others, like most Shepherd breeds , almost always have pointy, pricked, upright ones. In such breeds, their ears should start to stand up between weeks of age as the bones and muscles in their bodies develop and strengthen. Are they both floppy — or is only one of them drooping whilst the other stands up normally? Teething Several young puppies experience floppy ears during teething. Teething is a period that all infant mammals go through, in which their baby or milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. It starts at around three weeks old and ends at months of age, although it can take longer. So, their bodies may draw calcium out of other areas, such as the ears, weakening their skeletal structure and making them flop. You may even notice that their ears look different every day during this period. They might be up-right one day, then floppy the next, or even change throughout the day depending on their mood. Their ears will return back to their original shape as soon as their hormones calm down. Although most German Shepherds have up-right ears, some can have floppy or semi-pricked ones. Judges of dog shows and competitions also often look for large ears in the breed. Poor nutrition during puppyhood As mentioned above, calcium is needed to develop and strengthen the cartilage in the ears in order for them to stand up. Vitamin D is also needed to keep bones healthy and strong. This is especially common in rescue dogs that come from puppy farms, homelessness, and neglectful backgrounds. Always buy from reputable breeders! Other symptoms of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies include muscle spasms and joint issues. If severe, nutrient deficiencies can be deadly. Both conditions require urgent veterinary attention, and treatments will likely include special diets and supplements. Similar to malnutrition, this is common in dogs that come from a background of neglect or homelessness. A build-up of wax, debris, or dirt can make the ears heavy and cause them to droop. Poor hygiene As we mentioned above, poor ear hygiene can lead to drooping of the ears. It can also lead to smelliness and infection. All dogs have self-cleaning mechanisms in their ears. However, allergies and hormone imbalances can cause disruptions to the mechanisms, meaning they require some extra care. Dogs can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, household cleaning products, and foods like wheat and dairy. Other symptoms of allergies can include skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and eyes, and stomach upsets. Each has different symptoms, but they often include drastic changes in energy, coat, thirst, appetite, and weight. German Shepherds are also particularly prone to experiencing hormonal disorders. Ear mites Another cause of ear drooping in German Shepherds is ear mites. Ear mites can be picked up outdoors, or from coming into contact with another animal with the condition. The inflammation from the infestation can cause droopiness in the affected ear. Other symptoms include excessive itchiness, and redness, bleeding, and swelling from the constant scratching. If left untreated, the infestation can cause disease, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Infection Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they can affect both the inner or outer ear. They are most often picked up after exposure to water, and the inflammation can cause the affected ear to droop. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, irritation, discharge, and excessive head shaking or scratching at the ear. Vets can treat ear infections with antibacterial or antifungal medications, but they need to be treated quickly before they spread or cause permanent damage. Trauma Physical trauma to the ears can also cause them to droop. The most common trauma that causes changes to the shape of the ears in German Shepherds are bites from fighting with other dogs. If your dog has a visible injury to their ear, you should take them to see their vet to check it over and dress any wounds to prevent infection. Make sure to brush your GSD regularly, also around the head and ears — these dogs shed heavily! You can get these over-the-counter at your vet, online, or in a pet store. You can also use a few drops of olive oil for wax build-up, but not too much. To administer, get a towel and ask your dog to lie down in a comfortable place in the home. Then, massage the mase of their ears for around 30 seconds to help it loosen any wax or dirt. Finally, allow your dog to shake their head and use the towel to catch what comes out. That said, if they have particularly problem ears, you should ask your vet and do it however often they suggest, which could be weekly or monthly. However, this is very controversial. It is not yet illegal in the USA, but it is also not something that we would recommend outside of medical necessity, as it can be unnecessarily stressful and painful for dogs. The method known as taping is done by placing something, usually tape, inside the ear to make it stand up straight and grow into that position permanently. It can be effective when done during puppyhood and usually takes weeks to work. As we mentioned above, nutritional deficiencies can cause the ears to flop. Puppies should eat nutritionally complete and balanced food that is enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and DHA for healthy bone and brain development, as well as high-quality protein sources like chicken and fish for strong muscles, and tasty, fiber-rich fruits and veggies. All puppies should have a handful of strong, hardy chew toys to avoid being destroyed during teething, but they can also help the ears to stand up. This is because the ears are connected to the jaw. So, strong jaw muscles means stronger ears, too! Finally, you should avoid playing too rough with your pup and interacting with boisterous dogs to prevent accidents and traumas, which, as we mentioned above, could damage or change the shape of their ears. Dogs communicate with us owners in many ways; they bark, they growl, and they use their bodies. Body language is a key part of understanding how your dog is feeling. Dogs use their entire bodies to communicate; including their tails, their eyes, and their ears! This often happens when a suspicious stranger or an unknown or unfriendly dog is approaching, or when there is a strange noise inside the home. When their ears go back or downwards, it could simply mean that they are listening, or it could indicate either excitement or anxiety. Excited dogs may whine, wag their tails very quickly, and run towards what they are excited about. This happens a lot when dogs are greeting a loved one. An anxious dog, on the other hand, may lower their head and cower their bodies away from what is causing their anxiety. If they are frightened, they may also tremble and whine, and if they are feeling angry or threatened, they may show their teeth and growl. This can happen when a dog is exposed to a phobia or an aggressive dog. It can be difficult to determine exactly how a mixed dog will look. Different pups from the same litter can also present with different traits from their siblings. That said, certain traits, like short hair, for example, are genetically dominant and therefore will be passed on over others, like long hair, which is genetically recessive. Dominant traits are those that require only one copy of a specific gene for the trait to be passed down to a pup. Recessive traits, on the other hand, need two copies; one from each parent. So, which is dominant; pricked or floppy ears? The answer is — floppy ears! Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears in dogs. That said, different ear shapes in dogs does tend to reflect their original working purpose. For example, the Spaniel, a gun dog, has floppy ears that gather and hold scent particles. This helped them track down what they were looking for much faster back in the day. German Shepherds, on the other hand, along with other wolf-like breeds, such as the Siberian Husky , have pricked, pointed ears. This is thought to aid their hearing during guard work, keep their body temperature under control during strenuous hunts, and give them an alert look to ward off predators. This may be why people are statistically more likely to perceive dogs with pricked ears as more threatening, according to research conducted by James Madison University, USA, in .This is not necessarily true, however, as any dog lover will know. It is likely down to something old and instinctual, as they also discovered that people perceived coat colors differently, too. The type of ears that a dog has can affect their hearing. Whether a dog has pricked ears or floppy ears, they have 18 different muscles that control them to funnel sounds from all different directions. A healthy-hearing dog of any kind can still hear from 40 to 60, hertz, which is more than double what human ears can hear! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Waterproof mating and spare towels — Recommended option Your Breeder Knows Everything The one and only person in this world who can help you with all the information regarding your new Irish Doodle puppy is the breeder. Some of the questions you might want to ask could be regarding the general health and well-being of the puppies, the meal timings and the portions, the vaccinations and deworming, anything that you would have to look out for mainly related to Irish Doodles. Even after adopting your puppy, we suggest that you continually stay in touch with your breeder from time to time. Doing so will allow you to be better equipped and poised if anything were to take you by surprise. The Friendly Neighborhood Veterinarian A bit of good old research in and around your locality concerning practicing Veterinarians is necessary. Suppose you find it hard to locate good vets, prompt other pet owners, and ask them about their experiences with their vets. In case they recommend one, it will not be a bad thing if you were to check it out! When you have found the right vet for your Irish Doodle puppy, consult their clinic and see for yourself if they have the appropriate services or not. Dedicate an area just for your puppy It is a good idea to keep your puppy within the confines of one or two rooms when you first bring it home. Some of the room choices could be the den, the laundry room, or even the kitchen. By doing so, you allow your puppy to explore around the house while keeping him safe. Assigning a specific area makes keeping track of your puppy and cleaning up after it much more efficient for you. Since puppies are in general curious, your Irish Doodle puppy may feel confused and overwhelmed if allowed to roam around the house freely. Your puppy is most likely to soil an area again after having an accident at home. Therefore, keeping a close watch on it will be useful so you can take it to go potty whenever it needs to go. Puppy proofing your home In this segment, we talk about some of the few things you should consider while proofing your house for your Irish Doodle puppy. Make a list of all the apparent dangers that are spying around the house. You can also puppy-proof the area you have assigned for your puppy by cleaning it well, removing glassware or ornaments, or anything that your puppy may bump into or break. Additionally, please make sure to remove from this area anything that you would want to save from being soiled, scratched, or chewed to bits. These include garbage, tobacco products, medication, cleaning detergents, and anything that your puppy may try to put into its mouth. It would be best to remove all the poisonous lures on the floor and the traps around the house. More often than not, such items contain toxins and other harmful substances that can prove to be dangerous for your puppy. Since Irish Doodles are a very active and energetic breed, restrict access to any other room apart from the assigned puppy area by using baby gates. Make sure to sweep the assigned area regularly so as keep it dry and provide your puppy with hygienic living conditions. If you do go ahead and decide to crate train your puppy, ensure that the puppy can stand up, lie down, turn around without hunching. Also, add a soft bed inside the Crate. The main objective behind crate training is to teach the puppy that a crate is a safe place. We recommend you purchase a wired crate for your puppy. In that way, your puppy will be able to see everything around it. An open view will allow it to feel more secure and to be at peace. It would be best if you choose a machine washable bedding into which your Irish Doodle puppy can snuggle into. It would be fantastic if you get two sets of beddings instead of one. That way, when one bedding gets dirty and needs a wash, you can use the other one. The bedding should be raised slightly above the ground so that the puppy avoids draughts at floor level. It might be hard for your new puppy to fall asleep in the assigned area for the first few days. Being unable to do that is perfectly normal since the puppy is still getting used to the Crate and the surrounding. Potty Training and the Equipment for it Due to their hyper nature, potty training an Irish Doodle puppy can be too time-consuming and, to some extent, frustrating. In case of an emergency, it is an excellent alternative to provide your puppy with a place to relieve itself indoors, even if you will take your puppy outside to a toilet spot. Precisely for this purpose, puppy pads come in handy when it comes to potty training your puppy. These puppy pads are large, flat, and absorbent cloth very much like diapers that can be disposed of very conveniently. Using a newspaper is also a viable option; since a newspaper is less water-absorbent, it might leave you with some puppy urine on your floor. Getting some disposable kitchen towels, disinfectant sprays, and disposable gloves will also come in handy while cleaning the mess. Dog trainers recommend getting a timer and setting it off every half hour. In this way, every time the timer goes off, you can take your puppy out for a pee break. Be Extra Careful with the Garbage Bin Being inquisitive beings, you bet you will have a few mishaps related to your Irish Doodle puppy with the dustbins. Dogs, especially puppies, are led by their noses, and it so happens that the garbage is a treasure box of all kinds of fascinating smells. Trust us when we say this: You do not want to come home with trash all over your house! Therefore, make sure not to let your tiny Irish Doodle get around any of the bins, even when you are not around. For an weeks old pup, one to three hours should be ample time in the Crate. Three to Four hours in the Crate is sufficient for puppies aged between weeks old. By the time your Irish Doodle puppy turns 17 weeks old, it should be able to spend about four to five hours in the Crate. Note: Never leave your puppy in the Crate for the entire day. You should make sure to never use the Crate as a punishment or an isolation ward. For your puppy, the Crate should be a place where it goes willingly for a time-out or a safe place for your pup to be whenever you are not around. The Garbage Attack The bin can be a source of pests and diseases for your tiny puppy. There is a lot of stuff in our trash cans that can make puppies sick. From foods that are poisonous to your puppy, such as candy with xylitol, glass to medications, our garbage contains all sorts of harmful things. Possible Health Related Issues Being hardy dogs, they have benefitted by crossing their parental genes, which has made the resulting generation much more disease resilient and sturdy than their parents. Whether a dog is purebred or a crossbreed, we cannot predict their future health conditions for sure. Therefore, be attentive towards your dog for specific physiological issues like hip dysplasia, blindness, deafness, especially as your puppy gets older. Conclusion Bringing someone into your life and your home is no easy task. Remember that just as much as you are nervous and excited, so is your puppy. After going through this article, we hope you are better prepared and looking forward to a journey with the newest addition to your family, an Irish Doodle puppy. If you have properly gone through the checklist and the guidelines, you will find it easier to make this transition for both you and your dog a lot smoother and calmer. Irish Doodles are some of the most affectionate, loving, intelligent, and friendly dogs. They love to entertain and be the center of attention and make for a loyal family companion. Follow the guide and do what is right for your puppy, and your puppy will shower you with its love, adoration, and loyalty for the rest of its life. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. They are a result of breeding between purebred Irish Setter and Poodle. Their price tag is usually in the mid-high range. If you are looking for a smart, loving, family-friendly, intelligent pet dog with a beautiful apricot coat, then the Irish Doodle is the ideal pet dog. To understand how four prime factors determine the price of an Irish Doodle, here is a summary. It will help you figure out which options best fit your budget when considering keeping an Irish Doodle as a pet dog. Reputed Breeder It is always advisable to source your Irish doodle puppy from reputed breeders. Most reputed breeder takes pride and focuses on family-raised pups of superior genetics. They take care in picking only purebred parent dogs. When selecting from the right and trustworthy breeder, you will have the assurance of procuring a quality puppy for a pet dog. Charges may go higher when the breeders choose to provide a one or 2-year health guarantee of healthy puppies. Some premium breeders offer free health insurance for the first days. Premium breeders offer lifetime breeder support. Some premium breeders also ship puppies using USDA-approved ground transportation. With additional charges, some breeders also provide puppy care packages. It would include the food packages that the breeders were feeding before your purchase. They provide some set of toys, blanket with the scent of littermates and the mother. Poodles come in three sizes — standard, miniature, and toy Typically, Irish doodles result from the mating between a standard poodle and an Irish setter. The gender of the parent does not matter. Irish Doodles are rarely bred, or even not, from a toy poodle. Standard Irish Doodles: They weigh between 45 and 65 pounds and stand about inches tall. Standard Irish Doodles take up to 18 months to reach full maturity. Mini Irish Doodles: They typically weigh between 20 and 40 pounds. They stand roughly inches tall. Mini Irish Doodles will mature at around 12 months of age. The most commonly occurring coat for an Irish doodle is the red color. The red color of their coat does not fade at all with age. The resultant color of an Irish Doodle from the crossbreeding can vary depending upon the mother and father. Irish Doodle pups will usually be red, apricot, and black, while others have a splash of white. The red-colored coat is the most commonly seen color. Mini Irish Doodles have fewer pups in a litter, and therefore charges go up. Irish Doodle Generations Some breeders provide a complete family history and generation chart when you pick up the puppy after selecting it. For a better understanding and overview of the generation chart, the Irish doodle generation is explained below. The price range distribution for the segmented generation pups is different for all breeders. The rate at which Irish Doodles are available in the market, Irish Doodles are worth the money. Their intelligent and active personality is sure to keep any home entertained. They are not only good with humans and children friendly but are equally good with other pets too. Irish doodles are perfect as a companion dog or as a family pet. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. This is a rough introduction guide to cover the basics and help you understand the difference between the Irish Doodle generations. If two F2 Irish Doodles are bred together, the offspring will be F3. This is the simplest explanation, however in reality, it is a little more complicated. Just think of the resemblances between parents and their children as a good example. Irish Doodle breeders often want dogs with particular types of characteristics. Irish Doodles have lots of energy and need plenty of space to run around. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock For this reason, breeders often opt to breed F1 Irish Doodles with a purebred Poodle to increase the likelihood that the coat type and perhaps other characteristics bear a closer resemblance to a Poodle than to an Irish Setter. The Irish Setter breed sheds and is not hypoallergenic. It is not really possible to predict if a dog from this generation will be a low shedder or be suitable for people with allergies. It is only possible to really determine what the coat will be like when the Irish Doodle is fully mature. Many breeders claim that this is the healthiest generation of Irish Doodles, because they do not suffer from genetic conditions connected with the recessive genes of each parent breed. As they are usually more widespread, they are frequently less expensive than the other Irish Doodle generations. While their coats generally need more care, they shed very little and are more similar to that of a Poodle. This makes this generation of Irish Doodle more appealing for people who have mild allergy symptoms. This short guide just covers the basics of Irish Doodle generations. These are beyond the scope of this article. If you want to delve deeper into the genetics and the principles of inheritance behind Irish Doodle generations, then this article may be worth reading. An Irish Doodle wearing a harness at the beach. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Standard Irish Doodles are medium sized dogs roughly cm inches in height when fully grown ca. These dogs are the result of crossing an Irish Setter with a Standard Poodle. How tall is a Mini Irish Doodle? The size of a full grown Irish Doodle depends on its genetics that it inherited from its parents. When a mini Poodle rather than a standard Poodle is crossed with an Irish Setter the resulting Mini Irish Doodles are typically cm inches in height when fully mature at around months. How much does an Irish Doodle weigh? A Standard Irish Doodle adult weighs in at around kg pounds , while a smaller Mini Irish Doodle adult weighs between kg pounds. What does an Irish Doodle look like? An Irish Doodle can have a wavy or curly coat, depending on the traits that the Irish Doodle inherits from its parents. Some dogs can have long hair that will need to be trimmed every so often to keep it in shape. The coat of an Irish Doodle can come in a variety of different colors. Apricot, red and black are the most common Irish Doodle colors. Some dogs also have white patches, these are often slightly more desirable and therefore expensive. While some Irish Doodles have broader faces, similar to Irish Setters, others tend to look more like Poodles with narrower features. Their eyes are usually oval or almond shaped and are a medium to kard brown color. Irish Doodle Maintenance Irish Doodles require the same general maintenance as other similar dog breeds. Nail clipping should be carried out regularly. It is best to file or clip small parts of the nails away at a time to prevent any discomfort of injury to the animal. It is important to regularly check their ears to make sure that they are clean and free of dirt and moisture which could increase the risk of ear infections. Occasionally the hair around the ears may need to be trimmed. Good dental hygiene is also essential and regular teeth brushing with a specially formulated toothpaste for dogs is advised. Do Irish Doodles need much grooming? A relaxed Irish Doodle with long wavy hair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock The amount of grooming that an Irish Doodle requires depends a lot on the type of coat that they inherited from their parents. However they still require regular brushing multiple times a week to eliminate tangles and matted hair. Coats that are wavy and sleek like that of an Irish Setter, tend to shed more and also require frequent brushing. Based on the length of the hair, it may also need to be trimmed by a groomer every weeks to keep it in good shape. How often should you bathe an Irish Doodle? Frequent bathing can irritate the skin of an Irish Doodle so try to bathe your Irish Doodle just a few times each year. Roughly once every months is ideal, but occasionally they may need to be bathed more frequently. Are Irish Doodles hypoallergenic? Irish Doodle puppies can be exceptionally cute and almost teaddy bear like! Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are typically medium to low shedders and are suitable for some people with mild allergies. However, the type of coat that the individual dog has is inherited from its parents and just how hypoallergenic it is can be difficult to determine until the dog is fully grown. Generally speaking, the F1B Irish Doodles have coats that are more similar to Poodles, which means they shed considerably less and are more suitable for people with allergies. Irish Doodles from first generation mixes F1 Irish Doodles may have coats that resemble that of the hypoallergenic single layer Poodle parent or the non-hypoallergenic double coat of an Irish Setter parent. It is always a good idea to consult medical, as well as veterinary professionals about hypoallergenic dog breeds, before you purchase a four legged friend. These professionals can usually point you in the right direction of a suitable breed for your specific allergies. Do Irish Doodles shed a lot? Irish Doodles typically have medium to low shedding levels. Depending on the generation, the degree of shedding dogs experience can vary. Generally F1 Irish Doodles shed more than F1B Irish Doodles for example, which is why the latter is favored by people with mild allergies. How long do Irish Doodles live for? Irish Doodles come in a variety of different colors. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock Irish Doodle life expectancy generally ranges between years, depending on the dog. This is pretty typical life expectancy for medium sized dogs. The Irish Doodle mini form may tend to live longer with a typical life expectancy closer to 15 years. While Irish Doodles are generally a healthy breed, particularly the F1 generation, they do tend to suffer from some health problems. Are Irish Doodles healthy? Irish Doodles sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia and bloat. Other Irish Doodle health concerns induce eye and skin diseases, as well as epilepsy. Regular vet check ups and necessary tests are essential to make sure your Irish Doodle stays healthy. What do Irish Doodles eat? Irish Doodles require good quality dog food to ensure that all of their nutritional needs are being fulfilled. As the size, as well as gender, age and activity level of the dog determines the amount of food a dog should be given, it is important that you discuss food portions with your vet. Irish Doodles will eat more than Mini Irish Doodles so it is important to make sure that your dog is getting the right amounts of food and not being put at risk of becoming overweight. How much exercise do Irish Doodles need? An Irish Doodle running at top speed. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock As energetic dogs, Irish Doodles need hours a day of exercise to stay balanced and healthy. They enjoy a wide range of sporting activities and will gladly accompany their owners on walks, jogs, hikes, swims and cycling trips. These smart dogs also enjoy exercises and activities that stimulate their mental capacity and therefore perform well in canine sports such as agility, obedience and rally trials. Dogs that do not get sufficient exercise on a daily basis are likely to become depressed and destructive, as well as obese. It is essential that Irish Doodle owners realize the considerable amount of time that needs to be devoted to Irish Doodles in terms of exercise and maintenance on a daily basis before committing to getting one. Do Irish Doodles like to swim? Many Irish Doodles really enjoy swimming, which is not surprising given their ancestry. The Poodle is a type of water dog and is usually an excellent swimmer. Irish Setters were generally bred with Irish physical traits required for varied terrain in Ireland. Some of the upland hunting areas are quite boggy and marsh, so the Irish Setter would also need to get its feet wet from time to time. If you would like to introduce your Irish Doodle to water, it is best to do so gradually to ensure that it is a positive experience for the dog. Always keep an eye out to make sure that the water and weather conditions are safe for swimming. Is an Irish Doodle a smart dog? Irish Doodles are very intelligent dogs that are quick to learn and also quick to get bored if the task does not stimulate or entertain them enough. Like the Irish Setter, the Irish Doodle tends not to forget the things and tricks that it has learned, regardless of whether they are good behaviors or not so desirable ones. Be sure to start early with training to avoid as many training mishaps as possible! Is it easy to train an Irish Doodle? Irish Doodles are very playful, but can be stubborn and difficult to train. They pick up good and bad habits quickly and constantly require new input to avoid getting bored. Irish Setters show many of the same traits, while generally Poodles are easier to train. Starting to train an Irish Doodle at an early age will help set clear boundaries for the dog for life. It is also a good idea to get them socialized with strangers, children and other dogs and pets from an early age to ensure they can be confident in a wide range of different circumstances. Irish Doodles need a calm and consistent trainer that offers them plenty of stimulating ways to learn how to behave and be disciplined. Lots of patience is required and this is not a task for everyone. Positive reinforcement helps to reaffirm desired behaviors and should be preferred to harsh criticism, which tends to have a more detrimental effect on this sensitive dog breed. They thoroughly enjoy being included in activities and family life and thrive on company with people. As highly intelligent dogs, they love to learn new things and are open to trying new things. Is an Irish Doodle a good first dog? It is important to weigh up the Irish Doodle pros and cons, especially if you are not experienced with owning and handling a dog. Irish Doodles are friendly and lovable, but they can be challenging to train. If you are someone with lots of patience and can invest the time and energy to calming and consistently train your Irish Doodle, then it may be a dog for you. Other serious considerations that you should keep in mind before opting for an Irish Doodle is whether you have sufficient time to cover the exercise and maintenance requirements of an Irish Doodle. Are Irish Doodles good family dogs? Active families are the perfect fit for an Irish Doodle. They enjoy lots of exercise, as well as company and in a family they are likely to get both. The friendly character of the Irish Doodle, in addition to its ability to get along with other pets helps to cement the family friendly characteristics of this type of dog even more. Are Irish Doodles good with kids? An Irish Doodle puppy in the shade of a chair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are generally better suited to families with older kids, rather than young ones. First of all, the size of a standard Irish Doodle may overwhelm younger kids and as they are quite energetic and playful, there is definitely likely to be some level of wild play, the rough and tumble might be too much for little ones. Can an Irish Doodle be left alone? It is not generally advised to leave Irish Doodles alone for long amounts of time. Without company, Irish Doodles tend to get loney and may suffer from separation anxiety. The symptoms of this may show as excessive barking or other destructive tendencies. Do Irish Doodles bark a lot? Are Irish Doodles cuddly? A sleeping Irish Doodle puppy. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Yes, Irish Doodles are very cuddly and enjoy social contact so plenty of rubs and tickles are usually very welcome. The coat type of the Irish Doodle will either be wavy, shaggy or curly depending on what the dog inherited. While it is sometimes silky, like an Irish Setter, it is definitely fuller in volume and typically soft. Are Irish Doodles aggressive? No, a well balanced Irish Doodle is not usually aggressive. Irish Doodles are generally good natured and friendly, which is just one of the reasons why they are not good guard dogs. Are Irish Doodles good watch dogs? While Irish Doodles are not ideal dogs if you need a guard dog, their alert and attentive nature is well suited to being watch dogs. You can rely on these dogs to announce the arrival of a stranger to the home. Friend or foe are usually greeted in the same friendly manner, which is typical of the temperament of Irish Doodles. Are Irish Doodles good with other dogs? Exposing Irish Doodles to other dogs and pets at an early age will help the socialization process. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock In general, Irish Doodles get on well with other dogs, so at least in theory it is possible to have more than one dog in the home. Exposure to other dogs from an early age helps with the socialization process and can help to ensure a higher level of success. Are Irish Doodles good with cats? While many Irish Doodles get on well with cats, it does tend to depend a little on the individual dog. Irish Doodles that grow up with cats from a young age and are well socialized are less likely to cause problems with cats. It is worth remembering that the ancestors of the Irish Doodle, the Irish Setter and the Poodle, were used as hunting dogs especially for wild fowl so there is probably some instinctive prey drive still within the Irish Doodle. It is probably not a good idea to have an Irish Doodle and a pet bird… Irish Doodle Breeders Reputable dog breeders are extremely important. If you are looking for a specific breed of dog, you need to do your homework as there are many breeders out there that do a suboptimal job and unfortunately there are also a lot of scams. There are a few good rules to go by that are the same for Irish Doodles as for all other dog breeds. The Kennel Club has a good list of general questions to prepare to ask the breeder and examples of the types of questions to ask during the visit. Tip: Why not contact some veterinary clinics to see if they are aware of good Irish Doodle Breeders, they can sometimes help put you in contact with the right people. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock When it comes to looking into ads for Irish Doodle puppies or Mini Irish Doodle puppies for sale, there are several things that you should keep in mind. You want to be able to visit the dog breeder and see the puppies, their mother and the conditions that they were raised in before purchasing the dog. As well as having the opportunity to ask the breeder a lot of important questions, the breed will also be able to ask you questions and if it is a good breeder, determine your suitability for this dog breed and an individual puppy. An experienced, knowledgeable breeder will be able to find a suitable home to fit the character type of the dog and not just hurry through with a sale. There are many websites available online that offer good deals that sound too good to be true. Please be wary. You want to make sure that the breeder is a reputable one. It is important to make sure to do your research and make sure that the Irish Doodle breeder you opt for is one that has the welfare of their animals as their top priority and wants to ensure that they get the best homes. This same advice can also be applied when purchasing other dog breeds. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock The price of an Irish Doodle can vary considerably depending on several factors. The coloring of the dog is likely to determine some of the price. The red Irish Doodles being more expensive ca. Special white markings up the price even more. It is not uncommon for the Irish Doodle for sale price to be considerably higher ca. As Mini Irish Doodles typically come in smaller litter, their cost is typically even higher minimum of ca. It is thought that the Irish Doodle was developed as one of the recent designer dogs in the last two decades or so in the United States. History of the Irish Setter The Irish Setter is a medium-sized, solid red chestnut or mahogany colored dog that was developed in Ireland as a gun dog for hunting wild fowl. They are thought to have first developed around the 17th century, although records are difficult to come by. Originally, the setter dogs in Ireland were a mix of white with red patches. Over time, certain wealthy families of dog breeders in Ireland who kept these dogs in large numbers tended to focus on particular traits in the dogs. An Irish Setter dog has a silky, solid red coat. Around the s and s, the popularity of the solid red setter began to rise rapidly. In the American Kennel Club also recognized the breed. As the breeders for the Irish Setter focused largely on the appearance of the dog, the hunting traits that the dog were bred for for generations, became less relevant. In contrast, the largely forgotten Irish Red and White Setter was threatened with extinction during the rapid rise to fame of its cousin. The breeders who fought hard to preserve this breed, focused their efforts not on the aesthetic, but on the hunting ability of this dog. It was only as recently as that this breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. Ironically, almost a century after its descendant, the Irish Setter was recognized. The Irish Setter is now the most popular of all native Irish dog breeds world wide. Miniature Irish Setters are a smaller variation and not that common. History of Poodles Poodles are a type of water dog that are thought to have developed in Germany, although some people argue that the dog originated in France. One strong reason to believe that the Poodle has German origins stems from its name. As a water dog, the main task of the Poodle would have been to retrieve wild fowl from that water like other breeds such as the Golden Retriever and Labrador. Poodles are energetic and typically have a coat that does not shed all that much or at all. Photo: slowmotiongli via Depositphotos Intelligent, easy to train and eager to please, Poodles are a very popular dog breed that come in various different sizes. It is thought that the origin of the Miniature Poodle developed through their use in circuses in France during the 19th century. The Toy Poodle is even smaller than the Miniature Poodle. Regardless of the size of the Poodle they are all considered the same breed by the American Kennel Club and have the same breed standard. While extravagant Poodle hairstyles are what commonly comes to mind when one thinks of this dog breed, what few people know is that the original unusual hair styles were functional. Poodles have a single layer coat that is typically a non-shedding coat and is considered to be hypoallergenic. These are genetically more similar to Poodles, less likely to shed and are generally more suitable for people with allergies. Take your pick, whichever you prefer! They enjoy the company of their owners, whether it is being active and out and about or cuddling up with them on the sofa after a busy day. Their need for company makes them more sensitive and affected by separation though so it is important to ensure that they do not get lonely and get the required level of input every day. Each one of these unique breeds has its own characteristics, Irish traits, charm and interesting history. From the legendary tales of the Irish Wolfhound in Irish mythology to the war efforts of the Irish Terrier in World War I, there is lots to discover about these dog breeds. If you would like to find out more about native Irish dog breeds, then you can check out the Guide to Irish Dog Breeds. For more in depth information, please check the individual dog posts. We will compare the Labradoodle and all you may enjoy about them to the Irish Doodle. You will get to know the ins and outs of these fantastic breeds to see which is right for you. The Labradoodle is a crossbreed of the Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. These dogs were bred for their intelligence and ability to be therapy dogs. These Doodles are comparatively new to the scene compared to the Labradoodle. Since they are so unique, they can be hard to find in some areas of the US. And it can be even harder to find a reputable breeder with excellent practices. Both of these dogs have a lineage that originated for hunting. Because of this, they are both intelligent dogs with strong instincts to hunt , problem-solve and please their owners. These Doodles are bred with just the right balance to give them the good qualities of both parental lines. These Doodles love to romp around, play, and swim. But they also like to be by your side and cuddle you without squirming to get away. Your Irish Doodle will love to do daily activities with you. They can keep up with your active lifestyles while not being too hyper. Irish Doodles are known to be loyal and protective of their families. A Labradoodle temperament is very energetic. They love to play and wrestle. As puppies, you can hardly keep them still. While they do mellow out some as adults, they are primarily a go, go, go type of dog. Your Labradoodle will always be excited about life and all that it holds for him. Nothing can get these dogs down in the dumps. This enthusiasm for life also means that they adore their owners. Your Labradoodle will always be right by your side for the next great adventure, even if that adventure is only to the mailbox and back. Both of these Doodles are highly intelligent and make great pets for families. Neither of them enjoys being alone for too long and prefers to be surrounded by their owners. They also get along great with many pets and do better when they have another furry friend. Training And Exercise When comparing the Irish Doodle and Labradoodle, they are very similar in training and exercise requirements. Both of these dogs are easy to train. They will love to do tricks and catch on quickly to core training and potty training. These Doodles love to please their owners, which drives them to learn faster. Nothing will please them more than a treat and praise for sitting pretty. Also, the Irish Doodle and Labradoodle require a fair amount of exercise. You will need a decent-sized yard with a fence for your Doodle to play in periodically throughout the day. And regular walks around the neighborhood will help keep these pups in great physical shape in addition to face-to-face playtime. Since these dogs are so intelligent, they get bored quickly. Giving them puzzle treats for when you are at work is a great way to keep them active. They also love learning other tasks as part of this exercise. Keeping up with training times throughout their life will keep their minds busy and prevent boredom. Coat Types The Irish Doodle is a hypoallergenic dog because it is low to non-shedding. These coats are very soft and subtle that are usually curly or wavy. You can get an adorable Irish Doodle in black, apricot, or red the most common. Your Irish Doodle must be brushed every other day to prevent mats and groomed every eight weeks. Since these Doodles do not shed, they must regularly be taken to their groomers for haircuts. The longer the coat becomes, the easier it is to tangle and hurt their delicate skin. Labradoodles are also hypoallergenic with curly, wavy, and straight coat types. You will want to avoid the straight coat types with the Labradoodle if you want a truly hypoallergenic dog. These types shed more but do not require trips to the groomers for a trim. Labradoodles come in just about any color you can imagine. Though rare colors may be harder to find, these Doodles will also need grooming every weeks, with daily brushing in between 65 visits. It is also worth mentioning that though these Doodles are hypoallergenic, people can still be allergic to them. Allergies in dogs are usually to their dander, saliva, and urine. Hypoallergenic breeds are great for seasonal allergy sufferers, asthmatics, and people with eczema. Currently, there are three recognized sizes of Irish Doodle: standard, miniature, and toy. A standard-sized Irish Doodle will grow pounds and inches tall. While a mini Irish Doodle grows to pounds and is inches tall. These sizes seem to be a big difference within the breed, and that is dependent on the parents. If the parents are larger, your puppy will also be larger. There seems to be no standard on the sizes of a toy Irish Doodle. That is because a toy is a mix of a mini Irish Doodle and a Toy Poodle. Depending on the Doodle parent size, these sizes can be larger or smaller. It is also worth mentioning that a toy-sized Irish Doodle will mostly be a Poodle genetically. These Doodles are more challenging to determine characteristics, size, and temperament. The Labradoodle also comes in various sizes for all lifestyles. The three Labradoodle sizes are standard, medium, and miniature. A standard gets inches tall and pounds. Medium-sized Labradoodles grow inches tall and pounds. A mini will only get inches and pounds. While these Doodles come in various sizes, their lifespans are generally years. Smaller dogs usually live longer than their larger counterparts. But be assured that no matter what size of Doodle you get, they will have the same temperament as standards. Medical Conditions With every breed, there are certain risks of medical conditions that they can be prone to. These medical conditions can be prevented with proper breeding. Before putting deposits on any puppy, ensure you have also seen the parental medical tests and that the parents are in good breeding health. T hese tests can significantly lower the risk of your Doodle developing diseases later in life. Some diseases Irish Doodles are prone to are: Epilepsy.

I have loved dogs all my life, but my love and appreciation of Labrador Retrievers started with the addition of our chocolate Labrador, Ben, to my family in .I love the temperament, beauty, trainability, and versatility of this great family companion breed. There is no mystery as to why the Labrador Retriever has been the number one AKC Registered dog in America for many years, this breed is my passion! My breeding goals are to to improve upon the health and conformation of my own dogs, and to preserve the bloodlines, working ability, and the temperament already present in the Labrador Retriever. I registered my kennel name with the AKC in after satisfying the requirements to do so. I am equally proud of them all. I breed litters primarily for myself and I reserve the right to pick my puppy s until at least 8 weeks of age. These puppies will be the future of my show and breeding program, although I will have puppies available to highly qualified, pre-screened homes. We do not ship puppies sight unseen, no exceptions. Puppies placed in pet homes will come with AKC Limited Registration and must be spayed or neutered at the appropriate time. We reserve the right to refuse to sell a puppy to any individual s at anytime, for any reason, at our discretion. My dogs are considered full fledged family members and spend the majority of their time in the house with us, and make excellent couch and foot warmers. Please make yourself at home, and contact me with any questions you have! Kenya Labradors breeds the best, so YOU will live with the best. Kenya Labradors is solely dedicated to "breeding excellence" in order to offer you the most outstanding family pets and champions of conformation, hunting, agility, and obedience. We specialize in English-type chocolate and black Labs of exceptional quality and brilliance. See our website for photographs, pedigrees, and information! Why Labradors? Our home is on 20 acres in the gorgeous Santa Margarita Valley on California's central coast. With all this land, we could have chosen ANY breed of dog.Why did we choose Labradors? We chose to love, train, breed, and show only English-type Labrador Retrievers because we believe no other dog will suffice. These fabulous dogs fulfill our every criterion for the perfect canine companion. They are magnificently built for stamina and agility. They are off-the-charts bright and eager to please — loving, easy to train, and full of personality. Kenya Labradors are filled to the brim with SO MUCH love, devotion and intelligence — sure to become an important member of your family. It was an easy choice for us. We started with one dog, as many people do. Read our story. Now we strive to produce the best quality Labs possible, specializing in chocolate and black colors with the English-type conformation. Kenya Labradors are beautiful, bold looking dogs, and especially athletic. They love to swim, play catch, and retrieve, but can just as easily kick back to watch movies with you. Our Labs are super friendly "people dogs", good with young children and the elderly, and for announcing to welcome visitors. That's a BIG title and with good reason! It is also one of the most popular assistance dog breeds in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States, and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their intelligence and desire to please. Please contact us for a phone appointment. We don't post our phone number here because we are often outside with our dogs, and paying proper attention to numerous phone calls became quite a challenge. Establishing a first contact by email allows us to agree upon time where you will receive our full attention. We appreciate your understanding on this. Simply click on "contact us" or fill out the quick form — at the bottom of every page. Unless we are at a dog show or hunt trial, we will get back to you typically within the day. We look forward to meeting you! Sorry, we do not ship. Kenya Labradors does not sell puppies via the Internet or to pet dealers. You must be physically present to purchase a Lab puppy from us. We also do not cross-breed Labs to make designer dogs. We breed amazing English Labradors and take great pride in doing that one thing well. Come and see for yourself. You just might fall in love! Santa Margarita, CA .Here at Kentfield Kennels we are firmly committed to breeding the traditional English Style Labrador Retriever that will become your best friend, a loving family member, hunting companion, service dog, or will be out there competing in one of the many events you can enjoy with your dog. What we wish to produce is a substantial, medium sized dog with a good bone structure, strong muscles, a broad head and muzzle with wide set eyes that have a kind expression. A great double coat to keep out the cold and that thick traditional otter tail that is carried straight and flat from the body is our goal in each breeding. We want our females to weigh approximately lbs, and our males to weigh around lbs. All of our puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club, micro-chipped and enrolled in the AKC ReUnite program before they go into a new family home. What makes us different The Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate and patient dog. They are highly intelligent, quick to learn, lively, good-natured and love to play, especially in the water! We wish to breed into our dogs the excellent, reliable temperament that is sociable, friendly, loyal and above all else, great with children and other pets. You are among an elite group whose love for dogs is unwavering; and it carries through in all you do as a breeder and dog owner. The AKC is proud to have you represent the largest, and most respected registry in the world! The program gives AKC a new way to engage, encourage and recognize ALL breeders who meet specific health testing standards and who participate in continuing education. We have answers. Chocolate Labrador Retriever and golden Labrador Retriever will be priced differently. But if you use our MatchMaker process, we can easily connect you with an ethical breeder who offers litters at a price that fits your budget. Do your breeders ship puppies out of state? We have a large network and can help you find a great match near you. Our breeders and businesses are able to ship their puppies by air to all major airports in 48 states, except Alaska and Hawaii. Besides that, you are welcome to pick your puppy from Labrador breeder in San Francisco in person. How do you screen San Francisco Labrador breeders? We have developed a strict screening process which is based on multiple criteria, including animal care, facilities, breeder experience, and much more. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? The internet offers fantastic opportunities for dog lovers to find the puppies of their dreams online, but since online puppy scams are on the rise, it is difficult to determine whether you are dealing with ethical breeder or not. Our job is to help you easily contact the best breeders and find your ideal puppy! What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are inhumane dog breeding facilities that breed dogs for profit with little to no regard for the animal well-being. Bred dogs are kept in tiny, filthy cages and don't receive any affection, exercise or proper veterinary care. And when they can no longer produce puppies, they are abandoned or killed. Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near me? Thinking about adoption of a Labrador in San Francisco? Start our MatchMaker process below and tell us a bit about you and how you imagine your ideal puppy. What is the MatchMaker process? We created the MatchMaker process to help the top breeders sell their great puppies and make it easy for dog lovers to find these perfect puppies. We ask you to answer several questions about yourself and the type of the dog you would like to have and help you find the perfect match, quickly and easily. How do I know I can trust you? Everyone is aware of online scams involving puppies. We use our Breeder Pledge, our screening process, and MatchMaker process to establish strong long-term relationships with our customers and breeders. Read some of the reviews written by our real customers to learn more about it.

What is a mini golden retriever? On average, they weigh pounds. Our Mini Goldens are crossed with specific Poodle lineage to avoid health and temperament issues the other breeds can cause, and are hypoallergenic, shed less and live longer than Golden Retrievers. Occasionally, we have some that weigh more than 45 pounds, or even less than 30 pounds. They generally have more Golden Retriever in them, so they are a closer carbon copy than the smaller Comforts. They generally have a little more poodle, so they may have more hypoallergenic and reduced shedding traits. Occasionally, we get white spots abstract or parti-colors from the Poodle side. Sometimes, we produce curly coated Comforts. We classify our coat types based on DNA results, not on visual appearance. Shed levels are individual to the dog, so while we hope that the majority of our dogs are low shedding, there are those who are moderate to heavy shedders. There are many factors that influence shedding as well. Some of these include season changes, weather, stress, illness, and a puppy transitioning to its adult coat. What guarantees do you offer with your puppies? We provide a 2 year health guarantee for all genetic conditions for all of our puppies. An additional 2 year guarantee is available as well more info Where are you located? We are located on the beautiful countryside of Versailles, Kentucky. Happy Valentine's Day to all, both big and small! Thanks for submitting! It has been proven by mixing this combination of dogs it can drastically reduce many health problems. We only choose quality breeding stock for our breeding program. Our breeding dogs are genetically tested for different genetic defects through Embark. We also do OFA certification and Penn hip. It is our priority to produce only the healthiest puppies that will be part of your family for many years! We want all of our dogs to live long, happy, health lives. Miniature golden retriever personality There's a lot of reason why golden retrievers are so popular and why people want a miniature version of them. For many, they are an ideal dog breed. Friendly, easy going and clever, they make great family pets for most families. Mini golden retriever Size We use www. We cannot guarantee the size of your puppy but we do the best we can. Our Miniature Goldens range in size from lbs. Their affable nature, stunning appearance, and remarkable intelligence have made them a favorite among dog enthusiasts for generations. And now, a new variation has emerged that takes all these wonderful qualities and packages them in a smaller size — the Miniature Golden Retriever. We'll delve into the captivating world of Miniature Golden Retrievers, exploring their characteristics, care needs, and the considerations to keep in mind if you're interested in bringing one of these delightful pups into your home. These pint-sized companions are the result of carefully selected breeding, combining the beloved traits of the standard Golden Retriever with smaller breeds to create a charming and compact version. They retain the signature golden coat, the warm eyes that reflect their boundless affection, and that unmistakable wagging tail that instantly brightens any room. Characteristics That Steal Hearts Miniature Golden Retrievers embody all the qualities that have made their larger counterparts cherished members of countless families. Their intelligence shines through as they quickly grasp commands, making training an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Just like standard Golden Retrievers, they possess a natural desire to please, making them fantastic companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. While they may be smaller in stature, their hearts are as big as ever. Mini Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor, making them excellent playmates for children and other pets. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various living environments, from apartments to spacious homes with yards. Care Considerations Caring for a Miniature Golden Retriever is a deeply rewarding journey that requires attention and dedication. Their lush double coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from tangles. Weekly brushing not only helps maintain their appearance but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Consult your veterinarian to determine the right type and amount of food to keep your Mini Golden Retriever in optimal health. Regular exercise is equally important, as it keeps their minds sharp and their bodies in shape. Bringing a Miniature Golden Retriever Home Now, you might be wondering where to find these enchanting companions. You might have searched "mini golden retriever puppies for sale" or "mini golden retrievers for sale" which led you to us. So when seeking a breeder, it's essential to prioritize ethical practices. Reputable breeders focus on the health and welfare of their dogs, ensuring that puppies are raised in loving environments. These dogs can live up to years, so be prepared for a long-term partnership filled with love, loyalty, and unforgettable moments. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and undeniable charm make them a wonderful addition to a variety of households. Whether you're seeking a loyal companion for leisurely strolls or a furry friend to join in family adventures, the Miniature Golden Retriever is a breed that promises to enrich your life in countless ways. So, if you're captivated by the idea of sharing your life with a Miniature Golden Retriever, take the time to explore reputable breeders offering mini golden retriever puppies for sale or mini golden retrievers for sale. With proper care, patience, and a heart full of love, you're bound to find a loyal companion who will brighten your days for years to come. We are passionate about these little treasures and our small breeding program. We are a busy family with 4 children ages .Our dogs are part of our family and live with us, in our home, and under foot. The Miniature Golden Retriever, also known as the Petite Golden and Mini Golden, is a Designer Breed that has been crossbred to produce a healthier dog with the happy people-loving temperament of the Golden Retriever, the small size and sweet cuddly personality of the King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel, and the intelligent temperament and low shedding coat of the Poodle. Our Miniature Golden Retrievers range in size from pounds. Occasionally we may have smaller puppies maturing at closer to 15 pounds and larger puppies maturing closer to 50 pounds. We will do our best to make an estimate of the adult size of your puppy, but ultimately we can NOT guarantee adult sizes. We breed for temperament, health, and size. Our dogs are DNA tested and annually health screened by our vet before breeding. All our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Start the adoption process today!!! Not only will you learn the skills you need to be successful, but your puppy will learn incredible manners and behaviors as well! Each puppy that comes from our kennel comes home with a beautiful Registration Certificate. Continuing this daily regimen is the easiest and best way to keep your pet on the path to perfect health! NuVet Plus is a lifetime product to help support their immune system and provide assistance to their optimal health. A strong immune system will protect them from environmental and food toxins such as back yard pesticides, hormones, germs from public places, and even toxic formaldehyde in furniture and carpeting. NuVet Plus is a full spectrum, immune system support supplement that contains over 30 different nutrient dense ingredients that well better equip puppies to get and stay healthy. She is already so comfortable here and so attached. She gets so excited every time she sees us. And she has such a sweet disposition Everything goes for her. She just rolls with it. She loves to play and has lots of playful energy when she chases behind a toy or plays tug of war. But she loves to cuddle too, and she can busy herself well too without complaint. Yesterday we left her home when we went on a walk and she never barked or whined and was fast asleep when we returned. She accepted her crate as if she had never known any other place to rest. She just crawls in there and rests when she is tired. And when she wakes up, she quietly plays until we take her out of the playpen. Her potty training is going well. A couple of accidents here and there, but most of the time we catch her before anything happens, and she always does her business right away when we put her on the grass patch we have on the patio. She is getting a treat when she does her business. So, she actually figured out that if she spares some pee and squats several times, she will get several treats. Only One treat for the first time, everything after does not get rewarded any more. Wow, I have never seen a puppy learning that fast. And loving to learn. Being really food driven helps. I could not think of a better quarantine buddy to brighten up our day. I think she will be an amazing therapy dog who brightens up the day if many more people. Oh, and did I mention she is absolutely beautiful? Thank you again for that gift, Michele. I hope you are all doing well and are coping with the many new puppies. Some stressful days ahead of you, I am sure. And you are the best puppy mom I have ever encountered. Lots of love to your whole beautiful family! We are a family-owned breeder located out in the country in Loudonville, Ohio where we have 30 acres of beautiful farmland for the puppies to run. It is our goal to make sure all of our Golden Retriever Puppies are ready for their new family, so being a family of 11, the puppies are well socialized. We pride ourselves on making the adoption process easy, convenient, and comfortable. If you are looking to adopt a Mini Golden Retriever and do not live nearby, we offer specialized delivery right to your door. Thank you for visiting - we look forward to meeting you! Our Mini Golden Retrievers are magical! They also can be mixed with only Golden Retriever and Poodle. We strive to duplicate the Standard Golden Retriever but with added benefits. These benefits include fewer health problems, more manageable size and weight, and less shedding. Available Puppies Nationwide Puppy Delivery We offer specialized and custom delivery to any destination in the lower .We want your new puppy to arrive home safe and happy, which is why we have a designated puppy delivery team to hand deliver your special new family member! We can deliver by car or by plane and are flexible to meet your needs. More About Delivery Options Recommended Food For Your New Puppy We know that it's important for us to consume a healthy diet to maintain our health and keep us away from the doctor, and your puppy is no different. Proper nutrition plays a vital in supporting growth, muscle development, a strong immune system, and overall health so your puppy can live as long as possible. It is important not to cut corners and give your puppy food that is filled with non-nutritional fillers. PawTree is an AMAZING company that offers incredible products, and we have never found another company that is so focused on the health and growth its customers' puppies. Their recipes are clean and don't have any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or poultry by-products. They offer interesting seasonings to change up your puppy's food flavors, a variety of treats, toys, shampoos, potty training products, and more. Use the link below to begin shopping for the best dog food you can get! Order pawTree Products Recommended Supplements For Your New Puppy Weaning your new puppy can be quite a change in your puppy's life and your puppy won't have the antioxidants it used to have while nursing. So let's take look at your future puppy a bit closer. If your puppy is recently weaned, it may not be receiving all of the strong nutrients and antioxidants like they used to during weaning. This, along with the added stress of rehoming, can be a bit concerning for your puppy's health. With all that your new puppy is experiencing during this period of time, it is important for us to watch them closely and get their immune system up so they can naturally fight off certain ailments such as environmental and food toxins like backyard pesticides, hormones, and germs from public places. You may be thinking, "WOW, sounds pretty worrisome! These supplements come in a wafer or powder form. The wafer form can even be offered as a treat since puppies enjoy the taste so much. With these supplement boosts you can rest easier knowing you are improving your new puppy's overall health. NuVet Plus has natural ingredients and they go to great lengths to create this product in a safe yet effective form. We have not found any alternative that we recommend more! We suggest taking advantage of this product and ordering NuVet Plus even before your puppy is either delivered or picked up. When ordering, use code for our special discount. Life Span Did You Know? This cross is meant to produce a smaller version of a Golden Retriever that retains the classic Golden look and their characteristic friendly and sweet temperament. Mini Golden Retrievers tend to maintain a temperament very similar to Golden Retrievers. They tend to have a sweet, open, and friendly nature. Mini Goldens get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. These dogs tend to make great family pets and can also be found working as service dogs or therapy dogs. Due to their smaller size, the Miniature Golden Retriever is a highly adaptable dog breed. As long as they get enough exercise, they are happy in apartments as well as larger homes with yards. They also do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Because these dogs are so people-oriented, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time as they would much rather be an active member of the family. For Mini Golden Retrievers, these could include elbow dysplasia, heart issues, eye disease, and hip dysplasia. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and checking out available health clearances or tests can help allay potential health concerns. All of the dog breeds in the cross for a Mini Golden Retriever are highly trainable. So, these dogs tend to be highly trainable, intelligent, and eager to please their owners. They tend to be a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. They respond best to positive training methods focused on praise, play, and reward. Although the aim is to have the Miniature Golden Retriever look just like a smaller version of a Golden Retriever, there will be variance in the coats because it is a mixed dog breed. You may have puppies that look identical to a Golden Retriever or you may have puppies with tightly curled or wavy coats from their Poodle or Spaniel parents. With the Poodle in the cross, there may be a chance of a low-shedding coat, but you will want to be prepared for a dog that will shed moderately year-round and that requires regular brushing and bathing with the occasional professional grooming session. Floppy ears tend to be more prone to ear infections, but regular checks and careful cleaning can help prevent them. Dental care for dogs is so important. But, it is often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Miniature Golden Retriever is likely to be a high energy dog that requires plenty of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks, plus playtime and some extra activity should be sufficient for this dog. They will likely enjoy any activity that means they get to do things with you, which means they may enjoy hiking with you, taking trips to the dog park , swimming, or even training to compete in dog sports. A fully-grown Miniature Golden Retriever usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Mini Golden Retriever generally lives years. Dwarfism does occur in Golden Retrievers, which results in a smaller Golden Retriever and can also cause additional health concerns. Meeting the parent breeds in person and asking to see health tests can help you verify that you have a Mini Golden Retriever. Miniature Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale. Get on the waitlist and be the first to know when registration opens. When registration opens for the course you'll be the first to know! Allow All Customize Privacy Preference Center When you visit any website, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. 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Are you starting to wonder if it's time to switch the teenage pooch to an adult food? While typically a pup should switch to adult dog food between 12 and 18 months of age, there are some things to consider. Growth and Size Puppies eat puppy food. Almost everyone knows that. The real question, though, is "why. Large-breed puppies in particular, such as your Labrador, have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds. Large-breed puppies require specific balances of minerals to ensure that their joints develop properly and in the right time frame. As such, the decision to switch your Labrador to an adult food is not one to be taken lightly. Speak with your vet concerning your Labrador's growth and keep your big, goofy, teenage Lab on a large-breed puppy food until the vet says his growth plates are beginning to close. These foods often contain bone- and joint-fortifying supplements like MSM or glucosamine. Since Labradors are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, the extra joint support in large-breed foods can help keep your growing dog on the right track, developmentwise. Labradors are prone to excess weight gain; many large-breed dog foods have fewer calories, which allows your seemingly bottomless stomach of a dog can be satisfied at the end of a meal instead of endlessly seeking more to eat. What Brand? Labradors, with their double coats, are heavy shedders. Keeping a close eye on the brand of food you feed, and on the food's ingredients list, can help keep your Labrador's coat healthy, shiny and shedding less. Look for a food, preferably grain-free, with meat listed as the first ingredient. Make sure it's not a meat byproduct or a meal. For example, the first few ingredients in a top-of-the-line food may read, "Turkey, chicken, eggs, quinoa. Start to wean your Lab off the puppy food and onto the adult food bit by bit, no more than half a cup at a time. On the first day of the switch, you might feed a cup and a half of puppy food and a half-cup of adult food. On day seven, you might feed 1-and-a-half cups of adult food and half a cup of puppy food. If your puppy starts to have digestive difficulties, such as loose stool, take the switch a little slower. More Articles. 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:. 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. You need to know how to get them eating dry dog food before they leave mom. When should Labrador puppies be weaned? Labrador puppies should be weaned between 3 and 6 weeks. It is a process that begins with introducing puppies to a warm canine replacement milk and puppy mash at 3 weeks and then slowly reducing how much time they spend with mom to eat. Puppies should be eating dry puppy dog food by 6 weeks old. While this explanation makes the process seem rather straight forward which it is , there are some things happening with mom that you will also help wean the pups. Why wean puppies? Well, that just is not true. Truth be told, female dogs will nurse their pups for up to three months in some situations. If you are breeding puppies to sell, then you cannot wait that long. You need these puppies ready to go home by 8 weeks old. It is going to be really important to have puppies weaned by week 6 or 7. The trick is to do it is such a way that the puppy does not experience any drop off in nutrition during these early growth spurts. That might stunt growth in a way that will be difficult to make up later on. If this happens, your puppies may eat the food, but be unable to draw the nutritional benefit that they need to supply their crazy growth rate. In the worst cases, puppies can get fatally sick or malnourished. So, start weaning the puppies at 3 or 4 weeks. Follow the schedule below to make sure that you give your litter sufficient time to adjust to the new food source. When does mom stop producing milk? As long as the puppies are nursing, her body will produce. In the wild, males and females in the coyote and wolf packs bring food back to the den in their stomachs. When they get to the pups, the adults regurgitate the food in a mostly digested form. Your job is to start this process when the puppies are 3 or 4 weeks old. The puppy mash is the substitute for regurgitated, mostly digested rabbit or deer. Puppy mash There are lots of things you can use for the puppy mash. Some people I think it is sufficient to just use a high quality dry puppy food. Just use the puppy food you will be transitioning them to before they go home. When you are ready to use the soaked dog food, place it in a blender or food processor. Blend the mixture until it is the consistency of baby food no lumps. When you are ready to feed the puppies, you can mix it will some warm water or put it in the microwave for just a few seconds to take the frigid edge off. The weaning stages by age of the puppy The weaning process is better thought of in stages. While I am going to explain the process in terms of days or weeks. This approach can present a problem. Not all puppies take to the weaning process at the same rate. If it seems like one is not growing, you need to be aware so that you can step in and help with the weaning process. Do not move onto the next stage until the puppy has mastered the previous one. If you are wondering what puppy food is the best, then you should consider this dog food from Purina. I hear professional breeders and trainers rave about this food all the time. Your finger is not exactly what the puppy is looking for when he gets hungry. The same can be said about a dish or small bowl. So, you have to show them how good this can be. Repeat this until the puppy is greedily licking your finger to get the mash off. Now, move onto the rest of the litter. Once all of the puppies like licking the mash off of your fingers, try putting the mash into a bowl by a puppy. I still think it is a good idea to do this one puppy at a time. Leave puppies alone with soupy mash Okay, so now your puppies understand that they can eat from the bowl of mash. This next part gets a little or rather a lot messy. Remove mom from the whelping box and take her outside for a walk. When you and mom go for the walk, put enough of the mash in the whelping box with the puppies. I suggest you have your kids stay and watch the oncoming food disaster. Your puppies are going to step in the bowl and spill the mash all over each other. It will get on the floor and they will end up laying in it. Just accept the fact right now that you will have to clean your puppies multiple times a day during this stage of weaning. It is not going to take long before your puppies figure out that they like this stuff in the bowl. They are going to charge the bowl every time you set it down in the whelping box. Let your puppies stay here and get used to the mash for a week or 10 days. They need to get used to this new way of eating. This will make the mixture thicker. We still want baby food consistency, but now a little bit more firm than the liquidy mash you have been using. Think cold baby food rather than the watery variety. This should be a rather easy transition for your puppies because they still do not have to chew up anything. Skip the blender The next step is to skip the blender part of the process. Just add the milk replacement directly to the dry dog food and let it soak up for at least an hour. So make sure that you watch them the first time they give it a go. Go dry food only At least by week 6 or so, you need to have your puppies gobbling down straight dry food. I stop using the milk replacement at this stage of the game, but I still like to add a little water and let it soak for 5 or 10 minutes before feeding the puppies. I know that not everyone soaks the puppy food at this stage. It is not mandatory. Your puppies are completely capable of eating dry dog food with being soaked by 6 weeks. Make sure that you have your puppies at a place where they can eat straight dry dog food for at least a week before they go home. If you have a puppy that is still struggling with the transition to dry dog food, then just hold onto him for a couple extra days. He will get it. What about mom during this time? While you are working your puppies through the weaning process, you want to start controlling how much time mom spends with her litter during eating time. Make sure that your whelping box is tall enough that mom can get in and out as she wants, but keeps the puppies contained at the same time. If your whelping box is in your garage or some other enclosed space, then this will be easy. Just take mom for a walk and have someone else in the family feed them before you get back with mom. The rest will come from the mash. As the litter progresses through the weaning stages, you want to increase how much they get from the dry food and decrease how much they get from mom. How do you know when the Lab puppies are weaned? The reality is, mom may still feed puppies every now and then, and that is not a big deal. Occasional nursing does not mean that your puppies are not weaned. The tendency to look under mom for a quick snack might even continue after mom has stopped producing milk. In fact, when I brought Odin home, he looked for snacks under Lady, my 7-year-old female Labrador. She had not lactated in almost 4 years. His instincts just caused him to look. Think of it like stopping at your favorite corner store for a drink even when you might not necessarily be thirsty. If your puppy can eat dry dog food without having to mix it with any milk substitute, then you know that they are weaned and ready to go to a permanent home. When are Labrador puppies ready to take home? This is one of the reasons that you should not send puppies home until they are at least 7 weeks old. There are other reasons as well that your puppies need to stay together and with mom for 7 to 8 weeks, but weaning is a significant factor. What to do so that your Lab puppies succeed in their new home? This will give them a consistent diet and avoid stomach problems when they get home. In addition to giving the new owners a supply of puppy food and the brand name of the food they should buy when that runs out , you should also send them a small blanket that mom has slept on. You can also let the litter sleep on the blanket. The same principle applies if the puppy can smell his brothers and sisters while getting used to a new place. Transition to new brand of puppy food You should also tell the new family how to transition their new puppy to a different dog food. It will not be unheard of for a family not to spend as much on puppy food as you did as a breeder. Vaccine schedule Every new puppy owner should receive, along with AKC documentation, a schedule for the upcoming vaccines. You should have already given the puppies their first shots. Then, make sure that you put the date that the next series of shots should be administered. I usually only do the dates for the next shot. If they miss that next date by a week, then there is the chance that someone might give the final set of shots too soon. What about other puppy supplies I have never felt like I had to send food bowls, leashes, or collars home with new puppies. It seems like they should pick those things out for themselves. If you wait to get these things, then you will find yourself in a major pinch. When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? Are you a first-time, inexperienced puppy owner? Are you confused about what to feed your Labrador puppy? Do you wish to provide your beloved puppy with the best diet but are confused as to what that is? We have compiled this article for you to help you figure out the best options for your puppy. What to feed your puppy? What are the different types of food available? There is no one food type that everyone agrees to be the best and most effective for your Labrador puppies. Even experts disagree on what type of food is the absolute best for your beloved puppy. There are 4 main types of food for dogs. Each one of them has its fair share of pros and cons. Kibble or dry food Many people regard kibble as the best food for puppies. Dry food is by far the most popular feeding method due to its convenience and price. But is it any good? If you go for high-quality kibble food brands, you can be sure that the food is providing your dog with all the necessary nutrients it requires. However, if you choose to go for cheaper brands of kibble, you will not only be unsure of the quality of the food, but they will also lack the necessary nutrients that your dog requires. It is convenient, cost-effective in the long run, and comes in a wide range of flavors. However, dogs can become bored of kibble, and they will never be as excited to eat dry food as to eat actual meat. Despite criticism, this type of dog food has some benefits. This makes cleaning after your dog much easier for you. It also reduces the risk of bloat, which can be a potentially fatal condition. Dogs fed on kibble are more at risk of bloat. It makes them clean, glowing, and shiny. It reduces the risk of obesity, and your dog enjoys a slim but healthy figure. Dogs enjoy eating meat more than they enjoy eating dry food. However, there are some cons to a completely raw diet. When dogs bite down on a bone, they swallow small fragments that could form a blockage in the intestine. This blockage, in the best-case scenario, causes constipation, and in the worst-case scenario requires immediate veterinary surgery. Wet food cans and pouches A puppy might prefer wet food over kibble as it looks and tastes way more appetizing. However, as in the case of dry food, if you choose a cheap brand, it will not have the essential nutrients your puppy needs. So choose high-quality brands that will ensure the nutrition that your puppy needs. An advantage of wet food, compared to dry food, is that it contains a higher percentage of liquid, which helps hydrate the dog and make it feel fuller. Home-cooked puppy food If you are reluctant to buy mass-produced puppy food from the market, you can always prepare a homemade meal for your dog. You have to make sure that the meal consists of all the necessary nutrients required by your dog. How much should you feed your puppy? Like human babies or any baby animals, puppies also need more meals than adult dogs. A puppy will need about 3 or 4 meals a day. If you are feeding your puppy 3 meals a day, and your pup has loose stools, then take the amount of food for 3 meals, and divide it into 4 meals in a day. How do you recognize quality puppy food? There are a lot of choices to choose from when you go to buy puppy food. So how do you choose the one with the best quality? If you go for one of the well-known, popular, and widely consumed brands, the chances are that the puppy food of these brands is of high quality; hence, their popularity. So, do not be reluctant to spend some bucks, and get your beloved puppy the food it deserves. What is to be done if your puppy is not eating? Not all puppies are greedy for more and more food. It is a proven fact that puppies tend to eat more when they are eating in a group, and generally eat less when they are eating less. Hence, for the first few days that your puppy spends without its brothers and sisters, it may not eat as much and have a reduced appetite. Usually, a reduced appetite is not something to worry about, but it is best to mention it to your vet in the next checkup or if the problem continues to persist. Click here to find the best dog food for your Labrador Puppy When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? A small dog like a Chihuahua might become an adult when it is around 9 months of age. However, a larger dog breed like a Labrador will need another 4 to 6 months to become an adult. You also have to reduce the amount of food you give to your dog as it will not need as much food as an adult as it is needed as a puppy. You may also change dog food brands if you feel like it. Now that you are aware of different alternatives of puppy food that are available for you, and of some main questions regarding dogs and their food, it is time for you to decide what type of food will suit your dog the best and what brand you are going to purchase your dog food from if you are not making a homemade meal. If you want to find the best pet insurance for your labrador, click here. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. 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.