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Breeds The link has been copied! The Black Poodle is a widely sought after type of Poodle due to its elegant coat and charming personality. It is a coloration that can be present in various sizes of Poodles, including Standard, Miniature, Moyen , and Toy Poodles. Like all other colors of Poodle, black poodles are descended from water-retriever dogs. They have a long history of being both working dogs and companion dogs. There is a dispute about whether the Poodle originated in Germany or France. Either way, Poodles were originally working dogs bred to retrieve shot game and lost arrows. Poodles are a popular dog breed for several reasons. They are intelligent and friendly. They have a beautiful and striking appearance. Also, they have certain hypoallergenic qualities. Black Poodle Appearance and Genetics A black poodle can either have solid black fur over its entire body, or black along with another color. Black Poodles have black eyes, lips, noses, and toes. Entirely black Poodles are one of the most popular Poodle colorations due to their striking appearance. A genuine black Poodle does not have any white or silver tint in its fur. Poodles have both an outer and inner coat. The outer coat is the one that is easily visible. The inner coat is beneath the outer coat and is not so easy to see. All black Poodles have a black outer coat, but some have an inner coat that appears blue or gray. Having a blue or gray inner coat can make the black outer coat appear lighter. Standard Poodles are over 15 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 40 and 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles are classified as being between 10 and 15 inches tall and weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. The smallest size category is the Toy Poodle, which is under 10 inches tall and weighs only 4 to 6 pounds. Moyen Poodles fall between Miniature and Standard Poodles in their size and weight. Usually, Moyen Poodles are 15 to 19 inches and weigh 15 to 25 pounds. The Moyen Poodle is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, but with its growing popularity, it may be recognized soon. Fans of the Moyen Poodle praise their medium size. Their size makes them well suited to being lapdogs but also large enough to keep up with their owners during physical activities and outdoor adventures. You can learn more about the Moyen Poodle here. Regardless of what size category they fall into, all Poodles naturally have a muscular but slim form. Poodles also have long muzzles. Their fur is either corded or curled. Poodle fur is known to require high maintenance. What Causes Black Fur? The black fur color seen in black Poodles is caused by the same process that determines the coat colors of all dogs. These pigments are eumelanin and pheomelanin. To make it simple, if genes connected to eumelanin are dominant within a dog, that dog will have a black coat. The gene that leads to black fur is stronger than the gene for other coat colors. This means that it is easier to breed black Poodles even if they only have a small amount of eumelanin in their genetics. Black Poodle puppies can be born even if neither of the parents have black fur. This can happen if one of their ancestors further back had black fur. The genes that lead to black fur on Poodles do not have an effect on the Poodles' personality or health. Are Silver Poodles Born Black? Some silver or gray Poodles are born silver or gray. But some black Poodles do eventually turn silver or gray. There are two ways a black Poodle can end up turning silver or gray. The fur of true black Poodles does eventually start to turn gray, but this happens gradually when they transition from an adult to a senior dog. In this type of graying, the gray fur will not always spread to the entire body. Often, the graying will start around the muzzle and spread from there. In some cases, a Poodle can be born black and gray prematurely over the first two years of its life. It can be hard or even impossible to tell if a black Poodle puppy will remain truly black. Are Black Poodles Friendly? Black Poodles, when raised with proper training and socialization, are just as friendly as any other coloration of Poodle. Poodles are energetic dogs, so they need exercise every day. They are also intelligent, and thus need mental stimulation as well as physical stimulation. Though well-trained black Poodles are no different from other Poodles in their temperament, they unfortunately face a stigma due to their coat color. Several causes for black dog syndrome have been suggested. Often, large black dogs are portrayed as violent and intimidating in movies and television shows. Black dogs are also known to not photograph as well as lighter colored dogs. The only notable difference is that dirt and tangling can be harder to see on dark coats. Short haircuts are a popular choice for Poodles, since this makes their coils or curly fur easier to manage. Poodles need to be groomed daily. They also need to visit the groomer regularly, unless you feel comfortable trimming their coat at home. Poodles are naturally slim dogs. It is easy for them to become overweight if their diet is not properly monitored. It is important to talk to a vet about the best diet for your black Poodle. One thing that dog owners often forget is that treats used in training can add up in calories over time. Black Poodle Health The genes that cause a black coat in Poodles are not known to be connected to any health issues. As such, monitoring the health of a black Poodle is similar to monitoring the health of any other shade of Poodle. It is important to note that the likelihood of certain health conditions occurring can be affected by the size of the Poodle. Poodles can be affected by a wide variety of health ailments, but there are several that are especially common within the breed. These include: Dental problems All dogs are susceptible to dental problems, including tartar buildup and gingivitis. Heart problems The category of "heart problems" covers a wide array of issues that can affect all dogs. This includes heart murmurs and arrhythmias. Hip and elbow dysplasia Hip and elbow dysplasia refers to painful abnormalities in the hip and elbow bones. Patellar Luxation Patellar Luxation is an abnormality in the kneecap that can cause issues with mobility. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive Retinal Atrophy refers to a group of diseases that cause photoreceptor cells in the eyes to degenerate, resulting in reduced vision. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous Adenitis is a condition that affects the sebaceous glands. These are the glands in the skin that keep skin and fur healthy. When these stop working properly, damage to the skin and fur will result. This is by no means a complete list of health issues that can affect Poodles. Regular checkups at the vet are a must for any dog. Other Poodle Colors Poodles are known for having a wide variety of coat colors. These various coat colors do not lead to any differences in temperament. Possibly the most popular shade of Poodle next to the black Poodle is the white Poodle. Many people feel that white fur makes Poodles appear more soft and cuddly. Brown Poodles come in a variety of shades, from dark brown to a more tan color. Red and apricot are rarer than most other colors of Poodle. Their fur has hues of copper or auburn within it. Apricot is usually considered to be the color most recently introduced to Poodle breeding, so it is more difficult to breed. Not all gray Poodles are senior dogs. Poodles can be born gray. Or, as discussed earlier, they can gray prematurely. Conclusion Even once you have decided to bring a Poodle into your life, you still have many options when it comes to the size and coloration of your new pup. No matter your living situation or personal preferences, between the Toy, Miniature, Moyen, and Standard Poodle, there is sure to be a size that will work for you. And with their multitude of coat colors, you can be certain to find a pup that fits your aesthetic tastes. Many regard the black Poodle as the most beautiful and elegant of all Poodle colorations, and it is easy to see why. Still, with their friendly and energetic personalities, any type of Poodle is sure to bring light into your life. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. At Echocreek Poodles our goal is to provide loving companion and show families with beautiful healthy black miniature poodles. Our poodle puppies are beautiful, and intelligent with superior dispositions. We love giving references so you can hear, first hand, happy owners brag about our poodles. We have been breeding for 20 years so we have lots of references including our veterinarian who oversees our program. We breed black Miniatures and occasionally have a brown puppy. We are extremely conscientious about the long-term health of our dogs so we breed only healthy poodles with wonderful temperaments. This ensures healthy, sound pups. Our puppies are raised in our home with our family. They are well socialized from an early age. Each poodle puppy is priced according to it's own merit. Pet puppies are sold with a neuter contract as well as a limited AKC registration and are not to be bred. Puppies sold for the purpose of showing are by contractual agreement. To be added to our waiting list we require a deposit. Your deposit is a guarantee that you want the puppy and cannot be refunded. Please make sure you have thought of all the responsibilities of a new puppy before you make a commitment. We do ask for references before we place our dogs with anyone. Of course we give our references as well, including our veterinarian of over 15 years. New Echocreek Champion !!! For your friendship and for so beautifully presenting our girl! She finished with her second 5 pt Major over Specials! Daughter of Nicki. Beautifully presented by Sara Brooks. Shown by Sara Brooks. Finished with 3 majors at just 9 months September ! Bred by Terry Wellman. Owned by Cynthia Sublett. Shown by Sharon Svoboda and team. Bred by June Bierwas, Juniper Poodles. Presented by Sheila Basinger. Bred by June Bierwas. Please browse the rest of our website to see more of our dogs. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions!

Consider the coat type of your lab. If your dog has a double coat, you must get a brush to reach and brush the undercoat. Look at the size of the grooming brush and the bristle length. Your dog might feel comfortable with a smaller brush, while a larger brush will help control shedding. Discuss your budget and the need before finalizing the brush. You must consider the above factors before making a buying decision. No matter which brush you choose, make sure your lab is comfortable. It is flat, with all the bristles in close proximity. The slicker brush works well for labs as it penetrates their double coats. In addition, it removes any residue without any tangles. Bristle Brush Bristlebrush looks like the brushes that humans use. It is one of the best dog hair brush for labrador with moderate space. While these brushes do not work correctly for high-shedding breeds, they are suitable for quick brushing. Undercoat Rake Rakebrushes are ideal for removing dead hairs but should not be used daily. It has a T shape and pin brush that can help a lab with heavy shedding. It is the best deshedding tool for labs that can be highly beneficial. Not only can you use it for enhancing their blood circulation, but also to make their coat soft and shiny. It captures excess hair with minimal effort. First-time pet parents often think the lovely short hair on their labs will be easy to clean. But they realize the truth after a few months. Labs have a high shedding, and thus it is essential to groom them regularly to avoid mess. A labrador grooming kit is the best step forward. It ensures that their coats are healthy and soft. Moreover, it will also help avoid building up dog hair all over your house. Grooming your lab with a labrador grooming brush every three days is good practice. Labs have thick coats and thus specific brushes will work better for them. You must also ensure you get the right tools along with regular brushing. For example, with the best dog brush for shedding Labrador, the proper grooming gloves improve the process. Labs originate in Canada and are subject to harsh weather conditions. They were initially bred for work and had a strong work ethic and temperament. Labs often worked in cold weather and had to get into the water often. Thus, labs have a water-resistant coat with insulating properties that protect them. Also, their coat has natural oils and dries quickly, so grooming them regularly is essential. What is a Double Coat? Labs have two coat layers: the outer coat and the undercoat. The outer coat has strong hairs that are coarse. It protects the skin from any injury or getting dirt. Moreover, it makes the coat water-resistant. The undercoat is soft and dense and provides insulation by trapping air, keeping them cool during hot weather. However, the density of both coats can vary. Regular brushing makes your lab stay neat and clean. It helps circulate essential natural oils they produce. Labradors are active dogs who love getting into mud or water. Hence they accumulate dirt and insects in their fur. A tiny insect can start a skin infection in your lab, so you must be careful. Introducing the best pet brush for Labrador puppies early can help you later. While brushing your dog, pay close attention to understand what is normal for them. Groom to check for any changes, like lumps, bumps, etc. Brushing your dog has benefits, but the best way of brushing a lab is a mystery to many. Not brushing can lead to vacuuming a lot of hair from the floor daily. A lab has soft, loose hair; brushing them will be simple if you understand the trick. First, get the best brush for labrador retriever that will suit them. It can cause scratches and make labs uncomfortable. Next, complete the grooming sessions with a soft brush to help distribute natural oils. Use a damp towel to wipe the skin and pick up loose hair to end the session. Also, how often your pet gets muddy or wet and if their coat gets a blowout. Brushing twice a week is necessary to maintain the coat and skin of your lab. However, when your Labrador is having a blowout, opt for daily brushing to ensure all loose hair is at bay. It guarantees healthier skin while facilitating hair regrowth. Only make sure that you choose the best dog brush for Labrador. Also, as they are big, only some products will work better. Because of this, getting the best brush for labrador to brush both coats is vital. Furthermore, ensure the grooming tools are not painful for Lab. Labradors have sensitive skin, and thus, using a gentle brush is ideal. Yes, you should brush your labs regularly. You should be brushing them every three days. Getting a rubber brush will be beneficial for short-haired dogs. In contrast, brushes with long bristles are ideal for long-haired or double-coat dogs. Is Furminator The best brush for labs? Yes, Furminator is a safe choice for your pet. It is one of the best Labrador shedding solutions. It removes dead hair that you will otherwise see everywhere in your as well as the dog house. American and English labs are different as they have thicker coats. Moreover, they also have higher de-shedding and thus require frequent brushing. A slicker brush, typically a wire brush with firm bristles, can help in many ways. It is perfect for English and American labs because it removes mats, knots, and tangles from their coat. You can use a slicker brush alone or combine it with a bristle or pin brush. The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Bristle brush and Furminator de-shedding brush are some of the best self-cleaning slicker brush for dogs. As highlighted above, the FURminator deShedding Tool for Dogs is one of the best brushing tools to reduce the shedding of your Labrador retriever. Labs will never stop shedding. You can control only a bit and reduce the shedding through regular grooming and brushing. For a 1-year-old lab, it is better to use a comfortable, smooth brush that will not be uncomfortable. Labs shed naturally, and you can do only so much. While you can try to feed them fish oil every week, it will only be a bet. The best way to control this is by brushing your pet outdoors regularly with the right brush. You can make it a routine along with potty training. The color of your lab has nothing to do with their shedding abilities. The amount of shedding depends on their health and the coat. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. The reasons for regularly brushing your Lab are to help keep them looking nice and neat, to help circulate the natural oils they produce and to shake loose and remove dirt and debris, and to keep their coat and skin healthy. Active dogs like Labradors seem to love getting wet and muddy, so you need to make sure no small insects have made a home in their fur during their time outside. While this is more of an issue for longer haired dogs, it only takes a few tiny insects to create skin irritations for your pet, so do keep a close eye. The time spent grooming gives you the perfect opportunity to look for any lumps, bumps or changes in color so you can be confident in calling the vet if you think anything is changing. Routine is another incentive for brushing. Plus…most Labradors will love having your full attention for a few minutes every day! What Types of Dog Brushes are Available? Slicker Brush Made up of rows of wire pins to help remove any tangles. The pins are bent at the ends to help gather and collect loose hair for removal. Suitable for removing the dead undercoat on Labradors. Pins can be soft or hard to suit the needs of your dog. A wide range of sizes are available. Pin Brush The primary aim of these brushes is to remove tangles from long-haired dogs. Although this is a common and popular choice for owners of different breeds, this is not a brush type recommended for Labradors. Bristle Brush Used for shaking loose and removing debris and dirt from the coat. There are no metal pins on this type of brush. The bristles on the brush can be man-made or natural, depending on the brand you buy. These can be a good buy for everyday use, for quick brush downs after countryside adventures and for promoting a shiny coat as the final step when grooming your dog. Undercoat Rake Designed to help remove undercoat during the shedding season and for removing any tangles from the fur. There is a broad range of choices in this style of brush, including various sizes, widths and varied length of the teeth. Shedding Blades These can be used by experienced groomers to remove dead or shedding hair, but be warned; in the wrong hands, these can cause real problems for dogs. Which Brush is Right for Me? Unlike some other brands, this particular brush is self-cleaning! It includes a button to make the bristles retract, meaning you can quickly remove the dead hair from the brush without having to scrape between all the tiny pins with your fingers! Cons: One downside to this product is its size — at 10 x 5. Safari Bristle and Pin Combo Brush Pros: Value for money is a plus for this brush, as it is one of the cheaper types available, and it is a pin brush and a bristle brush in one! Not only is this useful for removing dirt, but the bristles are also perfect for distributing the natural oils over the fur and leaving your dogs coat healthy looking and shiny. Cons: The main complaint about the bristle style of brush is the time it takes to clean the brush itself. Measuring 6. Cleaning this brush is nice and easy due to the shape of it. An essential tool for Labrador owners! The Furminator is a compact product at 1. Cons: Price!! The blades on this type of brush are likely to wear down over time, but replacement blades can be hard to come by, and almost as expensive as buying a new brush itself. If you have a decent budget, having a couple of different products for different occasions will only make things easier for you and your dog in the long run. When brushes are used correctly and often, they will save you hours and hours of cleaning time around your home! This has absolutely no effect on the eventual price that you pay and we are very grateful for your support. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I really like the way you explained how we should search the theme-based site. I learned about the brush. I liked all the brush Great tips to choose for the dog. I love that. Really thanks for sharing. Keep it up. The Furminator dog brush is the best dog brush for removing loose dead fur beneath the topcoat. For dogs that shed a lot before growing in their fur, it may be too harsh and remove too much fur, leaving behind bald patches. Remember to be cautious when first using the Furminator because it is such an effective tool for removing fur. Try brushing your doggy a little bit at a time and see how his fur responds. The Furminator comes in a long and short fur version, so you can choose the best one for your particular breed of dog. Dog Shedding Brush Is your dog shedding like crazy and you need a good dog brush to remove the fur? The handle is made of rubber to provide good grip. This tool is great for long and short-haired dogs. Slicker Brush for Dogs Slicker brushes are great for removing tangled, matted fur. It does a great job at removing loose hair, knots, tangles, and dander. It also comes in a bright, fun color and has a nicely gripped easy to hold handle. Its stainless steel pins gently remove mats, tangles, and dead hair. The brush comes in a range of sizes, so you can pick the best one for your particular pup. But best of all, the pins retract making it very easy to clean after a grooming session. Dog Brush Glove A dog brush glove is a glove with hundreds of pointy tips to help remove dog fur when you pet your dog with the glove on. It is good at removing loose fur gently and effectively. The shedding fur sticks to the glove, making it easy to remove hair. You can also use this glove while bathing your dog to give a gentle massage without hurting his skin. And it could be the best dog brush for you if what you like is the tactile use of a glove. It comes with two gloves, the left hand and right hand. Ideal for reluctant groomees! This one also comes with two gloves. It has a mm stainless steel blade and an easy to grip handle so you can effortlessly brush your Lab every day to remove loose hair. Rubber dog brush Getting a rubber dog brush is useful for short or smooth haired dogs like Labs. You hold these brushes in the same way as you do with a horse brush. Both of these brushes are good de-shedding tools. Something to note: rubber dog brushes are not very effective at removing matted or tangled fur. So we advise you use another brush, like the slicker brush, for that purpose. Pin Brush for Dogs Pin brush for dogs are the most common type of dog brushes people get. They look similar to brushes used by people. They are typically oval in shape and have wiry pins. Unfortunately they are not very useful in grooming your dog. It helps remove dead hair and stimulates healthy hair oil production. This great little dog brush is also effective to use it while bathing your dog. You brush your dog in circles, then go from head to tail to collect all the loose fur. If your Lab is still a puppy, use a smaller Kong brush to remove his excess fur. What if you could vacuum and brush at the same time? It is safe for grooming pets and great for removing unwanted hair. Bristle Brush for Dogs Bristle brush for dogs are great for use on short, smooth coats that shed frequently. The tightly packed natural bristles pick up loose hair and stimulate the skin. You can use it daily to maintain a shiny coat. Dog bath brush Looking to massage your doggy thoroughly with shampoo when bathing him? With soft rubber tips that scrub away dirt, dead skin, and loose fur making it a useful pet brush for bathing and grooming. It can be used wet or dry. It helps improve lather and helps remove dead hair. Dog Combs and Brushes Need to remove matted, tangled fur from your Lab? Using a dog comb can help remove loose hair and dirt. It should be used with minimal pressure. This rake brush will not scratch your dog because it is rounded on the outside, while sharp on the inside, so it is effective at clearing matted fur and tangles fast and easy. Best dog brush for Labs As we have seen, there are many varieties of dog brushes out there. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush will be able to gently remove loose hair from the undercoat of your Lab without tugging on their fur or scratching the skin. As you gently work through the fur, this slicker brush will remove tangles, dirt, and knots quickly and without causing discomfort. The bristles of this brush feature fine bent wires that have been specifically designed to be able to penetrate deep into the coat, which will allow you to brush through the top coat of your Labrador and reach the undercoat. This will ensure you are able to thoroughly groom your dog without any missed areas. This will leave all of the excess hair on the surface of the brush, which will allow you to quickly and easily dispose of it, ready for its next use. This brush has also been designed to massage the skin while grooming the fur, which will help to both maximize blood circulation and ensure that your dog is comfortable. Pros Massaging — This brush will massage while grooming, which will help to raise comfortability so that your dog is relaxed and calm. Fine bent wires — This brush will be able to brush through the topcoat to the undercoat, which is perfect for Labradors. Cons Bulky head — May be difficult to reach the inside of the legs. Best For Excessive Shedding: Furminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool for Dogs If you own a Labrador that is prone to excessive shedding, or you simply want to be prepared for the times when they do, the Furminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is a tried and true favorite. Specifically designed for larger dogs that have short hair, the Furminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool for Dogs is a great choice for Labradors, especially as Furminator specifies that this tool is for dogs over 50lbs. Featuring a stainless steel dual design that can be switched depending on whether you want to brush long or short hair, this brushing tool will allow you to brush both the top and bottom coat of your Labrador safely and without causing any discomfort. Upon use, the innovative design of this tool will be able to reach through the topcoat in order to remove loose undercoat hair. This will help to keep your dog comfortable, prevent overheating and reduce the chances of any dirt buildup. The best part about this tool is that it is ideal for dogs who are shedding. This means that, when you use it, not only will it help to detangle the coat, but it will also be able to effectively lift away any loose hairs without cutting the skin or damaging the coat. Pros Ergonomic design — Ergonomic design of the handle ensures comfortable grooming and a reduced chance of any strain. Ideal for dual-coats — Features a function that will allow you to switch from short to long hair, as well as a fur ejector button. Cons May not be suitable for regular grooming — This tool is specifically designed to help remove loose hair. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The flexible design of the gloves will allow you to gently brush areas your dog might not let you with a traditional brush, such as the elbows and tummy area. Pros Pair bonding exercise — This glove will help to strengthen your bond with your dog. Hair Remover: Perfect for long, short and curly haired dogs, cats, horses, and other pets, grooming the hair quickly, gently and effectively; The shedding hair sticks to the glove, making it easy to.Bath Brush: Bathe the pets with this glove, which will clean the pet hair easily and give your pets a gentle massage without hurting their skin; Five finger design allows you to groom hard-to-reach.Skin-friendly: Free from any materials which could cause skin damage; Soft silicone ensure gentle massage and grooming without painful removing of fur or scratching the skin; One size fits all, it has.What You Get: 2 blue DELOMO pet gloves 1 left-hand and 1 right-hand; The left-hand glove is customized for left-hander We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Ensuring that your home grooming sessions are as simple and stress-free as possible, this vacuum brush kit will easily attach itself to the nozzle of your vacuum. The included curry comb brush features soft yet firm bristles that will be able to penetrate through all coat types including dual coats to effectively remove all dirt, debris, dead skin follicles, and loose hair. The soft bristles will also massage the skin as your brush, so your Lab will feel relaxed. In addition to that, the brush features an ergonomic handle that is comfortable to hold for long periods of time and contoured, which will reduce the chances of any strain in the hand muscles or wrist. It also comes with a strap, which will allow you to use it with only one hand. Pros Ergonomic handle — The handle of this brush is comfortable to hold and features a strap for easy grip. Low maintenance — This brush will attach to your hoover and suck up the hair while you brush your Lab! Cons Basic bristles — some users have stated that this brush struggles to sometimes reach the undercoat. Includes two interchangeable brush inserts. Massaging action nurtures.It consists of a dual design that features pin bristles on one side, and softer bristles on the other. Plus, for added convenience, the Sharper Image Dog Brush even comes with an ergonomic handle that will ensure a comfortable grip and confidence while brushing your pup. On top of that, it even comes with a helpful eyelet, which will make storage even easier. Pros Excellent value — This brush is ideal for those who are on a budget. Suitable for Labrador fur — The dual design of this brush will allow you to reach both the top and bottom coat without any issues. Cons No strap — This brush does not come with a wrist strap. Your pet will be cleaner and shinier than ever before! Bristle side to help remove tangles, dirt, and loose hair on your long or short hair dogs and cat Ergonomic handle features grooved grip for extra comfort and control when brushing your pet Great quality and innovating design are present at an affordable value with this Sharper Image dog and cat brush 2 sided brush has the pin brush side for detangling loosen the under coat. The bristle side will remove the loose hair and dirt from the top coat. Dual-Head As your Labrador has a dual-coat, it only makes sense that you should consider investing in a dual-head design brush that will be able to target both. Dual-head grooming brushes can come in a variety of different designs, although the most common type is the grooming brushes that come with soft bristles on one side for the topcoat and pin bristles located on the other side for the undercoat. Not only will this help to prevent the chances of any hand or wrist strain from occurring, but it will also help you to give your Labrador a more thorough groom. Then, once you are confident that your dog is relaxed, you can then begin working the brush at the base of the tail, brushing backward over the areas you have already brushed. If you wanted to, you could then take a soft brush through the coat to help distribute natural oils, and then finish off by running a damp cloth or wipe over the coat to remove any stray hairs or dirt. How often should Labs be brushed? Not just that, but as Labradors have a natural double-coat, it means that they will shed twice a year, usually in the spring and right before the winter. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Gentle and effective on tangles Easy to hold and comfortable grip Stainless steel pins on one side and soft nylon bristles on the other What We Don't Like Nylon bristle side is difficult to clean The Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Dog Brush is effective, versatile, and suitable for a variety of dog coats. One side has stainless steel pins that can help untangle knots and collect loose hair, particularly for dogs with long, curly, or wiry fur. On the flip side, the brush head has soft nylon bristles for fluffing and for short coats. The heads of the pins have rounded tips, so the brush is gentle against the skin, and the nylon bristles are very soft so most dogs don't seem to notice when they are being groomed with that side. We tested the Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Dog Brush on dogs with a variety of coats, including long, fine hair and long, matted hair—the brush performed exceptionally well with both. It worked best on our border collie test subject. One tester even noted that it worked well on her dog's thick butt hair. The Hartz brush was less effective for dogs with short hair and also isn't the right tool if you're looking to tame your dog's undercoat. The heads of the pins have rounded tips, so the brush is particularly gentle. For humans, the brush has a soft rubber handle that makes it comfortable to hold. The pin side is somewhat easier to clean than the bristle side, and we recommend clearing out all the hair you collect after each brushing session to prevent build-up. Rubber bristles break off easily Difficult to remove dog hair from rubber bristles Not good at removing shedding hair 7. This makes it easy to empty the collected dog hair into the trash. The bristles are finely bent wires that pick up loose hairs easily. It has an ergonomic, extended handle that makes grooming your dog more comfortable. The sharp bristles of this brush can be uncomfortable for your dog, especially if you press too hard. Pros One-click button retracts the bristles for self-cleaning Bristles are fine bent wires Ergonomic, extended handle Transparent protective cover for when the brush is not in use Cons Hard bristles are uncomfortable for the dog Tines sometimes do not withdraw completely, making cleaning difficult Not for short-haired dogs Check Latest Price The BV Dog Brush is a two-in-one design. It can be used on all breeds and coat types. It has an anti-slip handle to make grooming easier for you. The brush also has a convenient eyelet to hang it up when not in use. The brush is difficult to clean on both sides. The pins can also break and fall out easily, especially if they get caught in tangled fur. Pros For all breeds and coat types One side is a pin brush, the other side is a bristle brush Anti-slip handle Convenient eyelet for hanging brush Cons Does not have plastic tips Difficult to clean Pins break and fall out easily 9. It has a non-slip ergonomic handle made of silicone for your comfort. The brush gently removes undercoat, tangles, knots, dander, and trapped dirt. The bristles on this brush are sharp, so you have to be careful not to injure yourself or your dog. The plastic is of poor quality and breaks easily. Pros One-touch button retracts bristles for easy cleaning Non-slip ergonomic silicone handle Gently removes undercoat, tangles, knots, dander, and trapped dirt Cons.

Articles The German Shepherd Doberman mix is an alpha dog for an alpha master. This intelligent, confident, and athletic designer breed makes a loyal companion suited to an active lifestyle. So, what exactly is the German Shepherd Doberman mix? This hybrid combines the best traits of its parent breeds resulting in an intelligent, loyal and confident pup. The guarding instincts of the German Shepherd combine with the intelligence of the Doberman Pinscher to make the German Shepherd Doberman mix the ultimate watchdog. Like most hybrids, the German Shepherd Doberman mix can be a real handful in terms of physical traits and temperament. However, if you fancy a larger dog breed, the German Shepherd Doberman mix is a great option. If you are adopting a puppy, here are some of the physical traits you can expect from this crossbreed. Size You can expect your German Shepherd Doberman pup to grow into a large dog. Since both the parent breeds of this hybrid are large the resulting crossbreed is equally large. A German Shepherd Doberman pup will get to an average weight between 90 to pounds. Typically, these pups will grow to a height of between 22 to 24 inches. Due to its gigantic size, this crossbreed is not suited for apartment living. The German shepherd Doberman mix will be ideal if you have a yard with lots of room for your big pooch to roam about. Appearance The German Shepherd Doberman mix is a graceful dog that has a beautiful silky coat. The coat colors vary from brown to black and, in some cases, combinations of both. The half-Doberman half-German Shepherd mixed breed resembles its parents. This pooch will have a domed forehead and large pointy ears. This crossbreed has an athletic and muscular build that suits its energetic nature. These pups need plenty of space and lots of physical activity to expend their boundless energy. This means they make great companions for people with active lifestyles. Image from Instagram: peppadost The Doberman Shepherd is a healthy robust breed that has an average life expectancy between 10 to 12 years. With proper care and nutrition, your pooch should live a long and healthy life. However, your Doberman Shepherd may be susceptible to some health conditions. Joint Problems Large dogs can be especially prone to joint issues, and the Doberman Shepherd is no exception. These dogs can be prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia. This can minimize the risk of joint problems by boosting overall bone health. Heart Disease Cardiac disease is one of the diseases that Doberman Shepherds are at risk for. Regular checkups are recommended to ensure that any heart problems are detected early. Obesity The German Shepherd Doberman mix is a voracious eater. As a result, this breed is particularly prone to obesity. It is important to keep your pooch healthy by ensuring they eat just enough. This breed also needs plenty of daily exercise, so a minimum of 90 minutes of exercise per day is essential. This means that Doberman Shepherds inherit this susceptibility. Wobbler disease is characterized by instability of the vertebrae, which gives the affected dog a crouching gait. This disease is typically treated with medication or surgery in advanced cases. Image from Instagram: pnweli Adopting a dog comes with its fair share of costs. So how much does a German Shepherd Doberman cost? This cost will depend on the breeder, age of the dog, and gender. Female dogs often cost more because they have a higher demand. Similarly, a Doberman Shepherd puppy will be more costly since most pet parents prefer adopting puppies to adult dogs. Here are other costs that you need to keep in mind. Feeding Costs Doberman Shepherds have voracious appetites. You will need to keep your pooch well-fed on high-quality dog food to ensure their health. This expenditure will vary depending on the particular food brand you choose. Medical Costs Vet visits and wellness checkups are part of the pet parent experience. This excludes medical emergencies that may arise. However, this cost will be much lower if your Doberman Shepherd is healthy and well-cared for. However, due to its stubborn nature, training can be challenging, especially if you are a new pet parent. This cost will vary from trainer to trainer. Are Doberman Shepherds Good Dogs? So what can you expect from your German Shepherd Doberman mix? Loyal The Doberman Shepherd is a loyal and devoted companion. These dogs are very loyal and form very strong bonds with their families. This makes them excellent companions. However, the strong attachment tendency means separation anxiety can be a problem with this breed. These dogs pick up tricks easily. You will need to provide plenty of mental stimulation for your pup. A bored pooch can get up to lots of mischief, so it is very important to keep your Doberman Shepherd engaged. Strong Guarding Tendencies Doberman Shepherds have strong guarding tendencies. This means they can be very wary of strangers. Without proper socialization , these guarding tendencies can turn to aggression. It is therefore important to socialize your pup from an early age. Vocal Doberman Shepherds can be loud especially when they want to get your attention. This breed tends to vocalize a lot. This trait is great in a watchdog. However, excessive barking can become a nuisance so training may be needed to curb this tendency. Stubborn Doberman Shepherds can be a handful, especially if they are not handled firmly. These dogs have an alpha personality, meaning they require a strong leader or they will become the leader. The stubbornness of this breed can be overcome with proper training. However, you will need to do it from an early age so that your pooch understands who is in charge. Do Doberman Shepherds Shed? This means you will not have to spend lots of time or money on grooming your pooch. However regular grooming is part of keeping your dog healthy. Here are some grooming tips to keep in mind. Brushing The short silky coat of the Doberman Shepherd sheds little. This means that your dog can get by without daily brushing. Brush your pup every other day to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. This tool removes loose undercoat hair efficiently without hurting your pooch, making brushing a hassle-free experience. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Check Price on Amazon Pet hair is probably one of the pet peeves many pet parents have. However, you can keep your home relatively free of dog hair using the iRobot Vacuum. The iRobot vacuum also comes with a host of features, including Wi-Fi and voice connectivity for ease of use. Check Price on Amazon Bathing The Doberman Shepherd is a pretty active breed and it is bound to pick up dirt and grime. However, its short silky coat does not trap a lot of dirt, so a bath every 4 to 6 weeks should suffice. You can also bathe your pup as needed depending on their activity levels. The Miniature Pinscher Shepherd breed that results from crossing the Miniature Pinscher breed and German Shepherd is not related to the Doberman breed. Yes, Dobermans are good with German Shepherds. Dobermans and German Shepherds have many common traits that make them compatible. Both these breeds are protective, loyal, intelligent, and energetic dogs. Dobermans also have similar demands in terms of nutrition and exercise needs, so they do well together. No, German Shepherds are not stronger than Dobermans. On average Dobermans tend to be slightly taller than German Shepherds but the German Shepherd tends to weigh more. In terms of average strength, both German Shepherd and Doberman dogs are considered to be near equals. However, Dobermans tend to be more aggressive than German Shepherds. Dogs German Shepherd Pete Decker. History of the German Shepherd Doberman mix Like most other designer or hybrid dog breeds, the German Shepherd Doberman mix breed probably evolved sometime during the s. But despite not knowing a lot about their origin, the best way to determine how this crossbred will turn out is to look into the history, characteristics, and skills of both its purebred parents. In , a tax collector named Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who the breed now takes its name from, looked to create a breed that could accompany him on his work, being a loyal guard dog and a good companion. He mixed several breeds, including the Rottweiler , Weimaraner , and German Pinscher, to create the first Doberman. Their use in war is evidenced at the war dogs cemetery on the island of Guam, where many Doberman Pinscher graves can be found. These slim and sleek dogs stand 24 to 28 inches 61 to 71 cm tall and weigh 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg. Their defining characteristics include their black, red, or blue coat, and their upright, triangular-shaped ears are often docked. However, this practice is outdated and illegal in some places. During the end of the late s, Stephanitz bred a variety of local shepherd dogs to develop a dog that could be used effectively in military and police work. His first German Shepherd was officially registered under the term German Sheepdog. The goal of the organization was to develop a good herding and all-purpose working dog. When World War I broke out, these dogs were used as war sentries. This name was only changed to the German Shepherd in .The German Shepherd is a large dog that stands between 22 and 26 inches 56 to 71 cm tall and weighs 75 to 95 pounds 34 to 43 kg. This breed of dog features a double coat of medium length which is typically straight and features black and cream, tan, or red patterns. This powerful and energetic dog features a muscular body and thick and sturdy thighs. Their body structure is rectangular, and their hips are slightly sloped. They are said by some to have a wolf-like appearance due to their upright ears and long muzzle. A Doberman German Shepherd mix dog sneaking on a park German Shepherd Doberman mixes have a commanding, unmistakable appearance. This breed is characterized by their muscular and agile bodies combined with their large ears that stand on their own. Their faces feature a long muzzle, black nose, and brown or black eyes. How big does a Doberman Shepherd get? Given the size of its parents, the Doberman Shepherd mix will be a large dog with an average weight of 90 to pounds 41 to 50 kg and a height of 22 to26 inches 56 to 66 cm. Typically, females are slightly smaller and slimmer than males, standing roughly 2 inches shorter and weighing about 10 pounds 5 kg lighter. Even Doberman Shepherd puppies are quite large, weighing between 25 and 30 pounds 12 to 16 kg at three months old. Puppies start to reach maturity at around 8 to 10 months old and are considered fully grown at 24 to 30 months, with the females reaching full size quicker than the males. Their size can make them difficult to handle, and this should be kept in mind when purchasing a puppy from this hybrid. Does the Doberman-German Shepherd mix shed? Combining the GSD with the Doberman Pinscher created this intelligent and independent hybrid born to be an alpha. They have an affectionate side and would show how loving and loyal they are to their human family. Early socialization and training should be consistent and continuous to ensure that your fido is a well-behaved canine. With that said, this designer dog is not recommended for families with very young children, while first-time dog owners may struggle to provide for the needs of the German Shepherd Doberman mix. All that time spent together makes this mixed breed prone to separation anxiety. That alone can lead to behavioral issues such as barking and digging. The rest is covered in exercising, feeding, and grooming. Give your Doberman-Shepherd cross enough exercise With a lot of energy, at least 90 minutes of exercise a day will be sufficient for this doggo. Canines who are bred to work need to be raised with a job or feel like they have a mission to do. Besides that, weekly cleaning of the ears with a damp cloth is necessary to prevent ear infections from developing. If you feel like this is a lot of work, bring your fur baby to a professional groomer. What to feed your Doberman Shepherd? As a large breed, the Doberman German Shepherd mix will require 4 to 5 cups of dog food divided into two meals daily. Having trouble choosing between dry kibbles, canned food, and raw? Each type of diet or dog food offers different benefits like dental health, more palatable, and fresh ingredients. Then, you have to consider if he has any food sensitivities, so you know if you should get him a recipe with grains or without grains. Is the German Shepherd Doberman healthy? Bred as working dogs, Doberman and German Shepherd mixes are tough and resilient with few health issues. Major concerns include elbow and hip dysplasia , which are common in German Shepherds, and cardiomyopathy and CVI or Wobblers Syndrome. Other minor health problems that can affect the Doberman Shepherd include gastric torsion, which often occurs in large dogs, as well as osteosarcoma, cataracts, and dermatitis. With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, German Shepherd Dobermans have a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. Where to buy a German Shepherd Doberman mix? Visit their site if you want to avoid problems, like health issues, with your puppy later on. Currently, no specific kennels are breeding this hybrid, but you can check out these rescues for each purebred parent and see if they have an available GSD-Doberman mix. If not, check out the other German Shepherd mixes or Doberman mixes they have. Similar German Shepherd mixes include:. What Is A Doberman Shepherd? As such, we can expect this hybrid to be an energetic, intelligent, and devoted dog that does best with experienced dog owners who are willing and able to commit time and attention to this beautiful mix. Though the Doberman German Shepherd mix is rising in popularity, he is a relatively new crossbreed in the canine kingdom. For this reason, there are many factors to this dog that are considered unpredictable and quite a bit that we are still learning about him. Keep reading to learn more! Though popular, crossbreed dogs are somewhat controversial. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is stunning to look at. He also has the potential to have a phenomenal temperament and disposition when raised by the right owner. However, Doberman German Shepherd mix dogs are also work-oriented breeds that come from two different purebred parents. As with all crossbreed dogs, this means that the Doberman German Shepherd mix could be unpredictable when it comes to traits like health, appearance, and even temperament. And this is where the crossbreed controversy comes into play. What Is A Crossbreed? Sometimes referred to as a hybrid, designer dog, or mixed breed, a crossbreed dog is the offspring of two different purebred parent breeds. Mutts, on the other hand, are often born without the help of human manipulation and tend to have a variety of different canine DNA in their genetics. Originally, crossbreeding was done by breeders working to create dogs with combined breed traits for the purpose of work. In fact, it is believed that the majority of purebred dogs we are familiar with today are the result of careful crossbreeding over centuries. And though crossbreeding has been an ongoing practice since nearly the beginning of the human and dog relationship, the practice of selling newer generation crossbreed dogs to the general public has only become popular over the last two decades. Designer dogs are incredibly trendy these days, with many selling for as much if not more than their purebred counterparts. However, crossbreed dogs may have the upper hand when it comes to health. Crossbreed dogs could have the benefit of hybrid vigor , a term used that means hybrid dogs may be less susceptible to inheriting the genetic health issues of their parent breeds thanks to their widened gene pool. The breed developed somewhat of a bad rep due to their use by Nazis during World War ll. However, when properly raised, Doberman Pinscher dogs are known to be incredibly intelligent, affectionate, devoted, and trainable. They can do well in families when well trained and socialized, and they make wonderful guardians and protectors of people and other pets. However, some Doberman Pinschers have been known to bond more closely with one person in the family, and they are high-energy dogs that are not ideal for the more laid-back dog owner. For this reason, we recommend anyone investing in a Doberman Pinscher or a Doberman Pinscher mix to consider their lifestyle and ability to commit to this type of dog. But what about the German Shepherd? German Shepherds are highly intelligent, work-oriented, and trainable. They become very bonded with their owners and are best suited for experienced dog owners with an understanding of working breeds. When properly raised, trained, and socialized, German Shepherds make great family companions. They do well in active households and with owners who have flexible schedules. Like all dogs, without the proper care, exercise, socialization, and training, the German Shepherd can develop serious behavioral issues like depression, anxiety, stress, and fear-based aggression. The Doberman German Shepherd Pinscher mix is an intelligent and work-oriented hybrid. Coming from two work-oriented parent breeds, you might think that the Doberman German Shepherd mix is a serious-minded dog with no time for play. While this hybrid does enjoy having a job to do, he is also more goofy and fun-loving than you might think! The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a playful, energetic companion that can get along well with children and he is a dog that will enjoy having other canine playmates in the home. However, he will need to be socialized at an early age to help reduce any potential behavioral issues. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is also highly energetic. He will enjoy having owners who are able to get active with him, and he will especially enjoy having a backyard where he can run and play freely. In fact, if left alone for too long the Doberman German Shepherd mix could be prone to developing anxiety and depression. This is a very family-oriented dog, and there is a chance he will bond more closely with a specific family member. Also, because he is so clever, it will be important to keep your Doberman Pinscher German Shepherd Mix properly mentally stimulated as well as physically stimulated. But we will talk more about this further down. This mixed breed requires training and socialization from an early age. Training a Doberman German Shepherd mix may seem like it should be a breeze, but these dogs can be stubborn from time to time. Training should begin as early as possible, ideally during puppyhood, and it should be done using positive reinforcement training that utilizes treats, praise, and patience. Avoid aversive training tactics like punishments, scolding, or fear. Repetitive five-minute increments of training should suffice, mixed with playtime and breaks in between. Blue Buffalo Bits Buy on Amazon If you are looking for quality training treats to use when it comes to holding your Doberman German Shepherd Mix dogs attention, we recommend the above training treats by Blue Buffalo. Not only is Blue Buffalo a brand we trust, but these treats have all the qualities that make them ideal for training. They are small, round, smelly, and chewy, which makes them quite irresistible to your dog. We also like that they are made with quality ingredients that you can feel good about offering your dog during training sessions. Socializing your dog is the act of introducing your Doberman German Shepherd mix to as many new experiences as possible. This should include new people, places, sights, sounds, and environments. Avoid forcing your Doberman German Shepherd mix into a new situation that is clearly frightening or stressful for him. Instead, allow your dog to explore the world at his own pace. You can use high-quality training treats and gentle praise to help encourage him. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, the Doberman Shepherd could become anxious, depressed, and destructive. The quick answer to the above question is YES, the Doberman German Shepherd mix is going to require plenty of routine exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, this is a crossbreed that is the offspring of two working breeds, and as such he can be prone to developing serious behavioral issues if not kept physically and mentally fit. These issues could include barking, marking, chewing, scratching, and even depression, anxiety, and aggression. When it comes to exercising your Doberman German Shepherd mix, this is a high-energy dog that is going to need at least an hour or more of dedicated exercise each and every day. When you are exercising your Doberman German Shepherd Mix, be sure to walk him on a proper leash and harness. Like many high-energy dog breeds, your German Shepherd Doberman Pinscher mix may be inclined to pull on leash. Instead, use proper walking equipment that not only helps to reduce and redirect pulling but also teaches your dog proper walking manners without harming him. The harness works by clipping in the front, which means that when your dog does pull he will be redirected back to you. Mental stimulation can help curb unwanted behaviors, reduce potential destructive behaviors, and ensure your dog is happy, healthy, and well-rounded. Many people find that their Doberman German Shepherd Mix dog is a great help around the house! In fact, if you work diligently enough with your Doberman Shepherd mix, you could be able to teach him how to help sort the laundry, bring in the mail, or take out the trash. The Doberman German Shepherd mix will also enjoy routine training sessions and learning new queues, and he will appreciate puzzle toys to help keep him busy and engaged when you are away. KONGS are great because they provide your dog with long-lasting chew time, especially when they are filled with treats, KONG filler, peanut butter, or even other, smaller chews. The Doberman German Shepherd Mix has a short, smooth coat that sheds year-round. You can help combat allergies, dander, debris, and shed hair by ensuring you keep up with routine grooming practices. The Doberman German Shepherd Mix should be brushed at least once a week using a grooming comb to help remove loose hair and debris. Why you should get a Doberman German Shepherd Mix 1. What does a German Shepherd and Doberman mix look like? Half Doberman and half German Shepherd, Doberman Shepherds are muscular, compact dogs , with long muzzles and dark eyes that hint at their smart nature. The ears of the German Shepherd Doberman mix are typically upright, like those on the Doberman Pinscher. These puppies have a soft but short coat that may come in black, tan, or black and tan colors. How big will a German Shepherd and Doberman mix get? Doberman-German Shepherd puppies grow up to be large dogs , reaching up to 22 to 26 inches 55 to 66 cm in height and weighing 90 to pounds 40 to 45 kilograms in adulthood. What are the characteristics of a German Shepherd and Doberman Mix? Doberman Shepherd dogs come from pure breeds that are similar in temperament. This crossbreed is also known for its affectionate nature and its loyalty to its owners. This dog needs plenty of space, and it thrives in homes with huge backyards where it can run around. The German Shepherd Doberman mix will also be more comfortable in warmer climates. This crossbreed may have inherited this trait from the Doberman Pinscher, which has a low tolerance for cold weather because of its low body fat and short coat. What makes the Doberman Shepherd an excellent guard dog? The Doberman German Shepherd mix is the cross of two of the most well-known guard dogs in the world. Its sheer size and strong muscles give the German Shepherd-Doberman dog a considerable advantage when it comes to subduing attackers or intruders, whether people or other smaller animals. Another thing that makes the German Shepherd Doberman mix a reliable guard dog is its bone-breaking bite. This Doberman Shepherd has a high bite force due to its size , plus its parent breeds have some of the highest-rated bite forces among dogs today. Doberman Shepherds are also highly observant and alert. These dogs use a loud, attention-grabbing bark to let you know of potentially dangerous situations and unusual activity on your property. Properly training your Doberman Shepherd ensures that you can keep its aggression under control while making the most of its guarding skills. The best way to train a Doberman German Shepherd Mix is to use positive reinforcement. These hybrids are generally easy to train because of their intelligence and willingness to learn. Make sure to train and socialize your German Shepherd Doberman mix at an early age. This way, your dog can safely interact with other people and animals as it grows. Leave your German Shepherd Doberman mix in this area for increasing periods and pet it when you come back. How do I keep my Doberman Shepherd as healthy as possible? A healthy German Shepherd Doberman mix has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Follow these tips to ensure that your dog has a long, happy life: Give your Doberman German Shepherd Mix at least 90 minutes of exercise and activity per day. Take your dog on long walks around your neighborhood or visit the dog park at least thrice a week. Your Doberman Shepherd will also love playing mentally challenging games. A daily diet of 4 to 5 cups of dry dog food, divided into at least two meals, ensures that your Doberman Shepherd maintains a healthy weight. With a proper diet, your Doberman and German Shepherd crossbreed can avoid obesity, which is a common problem in large dogs. This way, your German Shepherd Doberman mix can get the energy it needs for its daily activities and keep its muscles and bones strong. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a low to moderate-shedding dog, but you still need to brush its coat every couple of days. Are there any health issues to watch out for in the Doberman German Shepherd Mix? Doberman Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but they can still inherit various health problems from their parent breeds. Doberman Pinschers, for instance, are prone to cardiomyopathy and Wobbler syndrome due to cervical vertebral instability. On the other hand, its German Shepherd parentage gives the German Shepherd Doberman mix a predisposition to conditions such hip dysplasia , megaesophagus, and degenerative myelopathy. Breed clubs and rescue organizations for the parent breeds may also help with your search for German Shepherd and Doberman mix puppies. Here are some breeders and rescues you can get in touch with:. It is a cross between the Doberman Pinscher and the German Shepherd. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Ella the Doberman Shepherd mix at about 2 years old—"Ella is a very calm dog. She likes to eat and play with her owner. When our old dog passed away, we wanted a friend for our Vizmaraner. She has been great with learning and listening to orders, though has been a bit of a challenge at times. She always wants to have a job and something to do. She loves playing with her 'brother' Blitzen, and she adores our daughter. She also puts up with the cats , but doesn't seem to care much one way or the other. She is spayed , but otherwise unaltered. She has her full tail and her ears have been left alone. Cairo was DNA tested to validate his breed s. So from the results it is safe to say both of his parents were purebreds. NO other breeds were detected. He was a rescue dog, but based on his appearance he does not appear to be an accident. When I got him from the rescue he was 76 lbs. He has many traits and features that point to the Doberman breed coloring, coat and feet and others that lend themselves to the German Shepherd tail, ears and intelligence. He weighs a little north of lbs.!!! He is a very gentle but protective dog with an amazingly loving personality. He loves his big old chin scratched!!!! This guy is so tall he can lick the counters without having to get up on his hind legs and can look over a 6-foot fence easily. Other Canine Clubs Adoptapet. You could also attend professional dog shows, contact or join dog clubs, or talk with a veterinarian who may know or refer a Doberman German Shepherd mix breeder to you. Since the dog would appear like its Doberman parent dog, its short hair does not result in excessive shedding. The Doberman German Shepherd does not like bathing in water, so the dog should be trained to tolerate bath time during puppyhood. This dog shampoo is biodegradable and made of a coconut cleanser, oatmeal, and aloe. It is made of aloe and oatmeal and helps in maintaining a healthy and shiny coat for the dog. The dog shampoo also has a pine scent and is a hundred percent satisfaction guaranteed. Do not forget about maintaining the nails of the dog. Just like many dogs, the Doberman German Shepherd mix also needs its nails trimmed using specialized nail clippers for dogs. The occasional cleaning of the ears and brushing of the teeth should be done as well. Regular exercises and occasional visits to the vet is recommended to prevent the following health problems: Cardiomyopathy. This umbrella term covers both Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Dilated Cardiomyopathy, or Enlarged Heart, is a disease that affects internal organs and results in lung and heart failure. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, or Heart Disease, is a rare case of blood distribution problems by the heart in dogs. The symptoms of Cardiomyopathy include abnormal breathing patterns, anorexia, lethargy, coughing, blueish skin discoloration, and loss of awareness. Wobbler Syndrome. Scientifically named as Cervical Spondylomyelopathy, wobble syndrome is a predisposed condition in large dog breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher. It is described by a bone malformation in the cervical spine which is located on the neck of the dog, resulting in wobbly walking and neck pain. Hip Dysplasia. This is a genetic illness that is common to many dogs in general. In other cases, obesity and improper nutrition and diet can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. The hip joints of the dog slowly deteriorate and could result in skeletal malformation. Megaesophagus is generally characterized by the enlargement of the esophagus in dogs. It is a congenital or inborn, disease that causes problems in traveling food from the mouth to the stomach. Some signs and symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and bad breath. Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease is described as the slow degeneration of the spinal cord in the dog. It may eventually result in paralysis as well. Warning signs include a steady weakness of hind limbs, stumbling, inability to stand, muscle atrophy, poor hygiene, stress, and depression. Separation Anxiety. Part of viewing a health issue should not only remain within the physical aspect. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is also prone to mental disorders like separation anxiety. This occurs when its owner spends less time with the dog despite its deep attachment and loyalty with the person. The Doberman German Shepherd mix does not necessarily have any health issues or illnesses that were explicitly pointed out. Nevertheless, the sicknesses and health problems that were mentioned above can still be passed on to the offspring derived from the genes of both parent dogs. Doberman Shepherds Food Requirements As a big and energetic breed, the Doberman German Shepherd mix may eat plenty of food and become obese if the dog is not supplemented with proper nutrition and a balanced diet. It needs to consume substantial amounts of protein and a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats and is fed twice a day depending on the activities that the dog did during the day. Feeding your German Shepherd Chow mix should have a balanced diet just like any other dog. You should consult with your veterinarian about these dog foods and devise a holistic dietary plan. Too much protein is too much calorie for the dog and may result in too much weight. Your hairy companion deserves the best, so choose the highest-quality dry dog food in the market you can find. Whelps need the energy to be active, and lots of vitamins and minerals too. Food that rounds off everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different necessities, so take a look at the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay strong and show off proudly. You can also find useful ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will adore. German Dobermans Exercise Requirements This is an active and energetic dog with parent dogs that were bred for working. The Doberman German Shepherd mix requires a substantial amount of exercise to channel and release its stored energy. Intellectual activities are also sufficient sources of mental stimulation for the dog. Below are some activities for the dog: Racing. A team of four dogs is set on the course that fetches a tennis ball through an obstacle course and returns the ball to its handler. The first team to complete the task with all their dogs wins. Like the Doberman and the German Shepherd, the Doberman German Shepherd mix can significantly benefit from this activity. Since most dogs live in urban settings, herding allows the dog an opportunity to utilize its herding instincts that were long unused. Military Training. Sending the dog to the military is an advantage for the dog to act on command and the owner to gain leadership points. On the softer side, the dog may be used as a service dog for war veterans or soldiers who are suffering from PTSD. Scenting or Tracking Games. The German Shepherd parent dog side of the German Shepherd Chow mix was tracking dogs that loved to hunt things. Some games include finding the treat, hide and seek, and find the toy. Both the Doberman and the German Shepherd are renowned guarding dogs and, and its offspring are more likely to display aggressive behavior towards suspicions and threats. The dog should learn how to safely interact with different people and animals, especially with children. Here are some training methods that you could apply to the dog: Socialization. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a dog with a bold disposition. The dog needs to be exposed with children and other animals and dogs as a puppy to help expand its sense of protectiveness and guarding instincts towards others. The dog will eventually learn new social skills and become more mature to regulate its aggressive tendency. Positive Reinforcement. Rewarding your dog while teaching it commands can come a long way to its relationship with you. You give your dog a reward such as a treat or a toy whenever it successfully responds to your command but gives it nothing until it learns how to react correctly to your call. Puppy Training. The most important part of training the dog as a puppy is giving it your time and company. This should teach your dog the value of your bond with it and will soon acknowledge you as its alpha. Let it play with toys that you give so that it learns that being with you is a rewarding experience. Knowing how to address this reaction of the dog on its guarding instincts is vital before it grows older. But the Doberman German Shepherd mix is also a loyal and affectionate dog once it grows up. It may even feel emotional when its owner deprives the dog of reciprocation or companionship. They make excellent guard dogs and make intruders think twice before barging into your house. The dog needs a backyard space to deplete its energy levels throughout the day. It is not an ideal dog for people living in an apartment since the dog may always feel insecure and wary of strangers that walk the hallways every day. It may even act more aggressively to different people who you interact with and affect your social life as well. If your family lives in colder states and have fewer opportunities to bring out the dog, then it is not a suitable dog for you. Altogether, the Doberman German Shepherd mix makes a fearsome but loving family dog. The important thing to remember is that it is a dog that will protect the family with its life no matter how dangerous the situation could escalate References:.

Sometimes the owners reduce the price if you have a talk with them. You need to deposit a certain amount to reserve your puppy. Why are Pure French Bulldog puppies expensive in Alabama? The French Bulldogs are quite popular and they are one of the most expensive dog breeds. For this breed, naturally giving birth is complicated. That is why they usually undergo C-sections which are moderately expensive. The breeders also have to pay a hefty stud fee. Since the mothers do not have delivery, they become quite weak after giving birth and cannot take care of their offspring. So, the breeders have to take care of them which is like a full-time job. The puppies are given necessary vaccinations too in due time. Because of these costs, the breeders charge comparatively more for bulldog pups. Before adopting a French Bulldog pup from any breeder, you should do some investigation on the breeder. You should ask about their breeding and raising process, check if they are American Kennel Club or AKC registered or not. Ask them questions about the medical history of the puppies and if they got any genetic disorders. You should also check the pedigrees. You can check the list of breeders mentioned above who reside in Alabama. The breeders are also AKC registered. How do I choose a French Bulldog puppy in Alabama? When you are planning to adopt a Frenchies pup, you should do some background medical checks on them such as Dwarfism, malformed hips and back problems, eyes if they have cataracts. You should also check the pedigree. After that, you should choose a pup that you can love unconditionally and can give a new loving home. Do not feel shy to ask any questions related to the French Bulldogs to the breeders. The frog dogs are so popular because of their ability to adapt to any home, even in a small apartment. Their low energy is also another reason for their popularity. People like their temperament and size as well. They are very calm. They have a friendly outgoing personalities. What is the rarest color of French Bulldog In Alabama? Why Are They Rare in Alabama? Though blue, lilac, black, tan are not AKC standard colors for French Bulldogs, they are quite rare and popular. Among these colors, the rarest color for Bulldogs is Blue Merle. These colors are achieved through very particular interbreeding. Because of this, they are quite expensive as well. In the first year, the cost is more as you need to give the puppies the necessary supplies, visits to the vet, and medical shots. How much is a French Bulldog puppy in Alabama without papers? But the puppies without papers might not even be purebred so be careful of puppies without papers. What is the most popular French Bulldog color in Alabama? The AKC standard colors for French Bulldogs are white, tan, fawn brindle, and a combination of brindle and white. Among these colors, the most popular color is the Brindle French Bulldog. Where can I take my French Bulldog in Alabama? In Alabama, there are some leash-free dog parks where you can take your French Bulldog pups for a walk or run. You need to be careful of the puppy mills and backyard breeders. Adopting puppies from them is discouraged because you can never get to know about the bloodlines or any genetic disorders of the puppies. The puppies might not ever be tested too. So, to avoid them, you need to have enough knowledge about the breeders in your area. Try to adopt from AKC registered breeders. Why Not? It is up to you if you want to adopt a pup from rescue centers but the thing about rescue center pets is that you do not get to know about their bloodlines or if they have any genetic disorders or if they are infected with any disease. Try to adopt puppies from breed specific centers and support law by adopting pups that are registered and have papers. The Frenchies are very easy to maintain. The ears of the Bulldogs are like bat ears. The coat of the Frenchies is shiny and smooth. So, these dogs are very easy to groom as well. The dogs might look tough on the outside but they are very sweet on the inside. The Frenchies thrive for human contact. The clown dogs cannot get taller than 13 inches at the shoulder. This quality makes them a great option for the people who reside in the cities and have less space. Do you know any breeder about whom I have not featured in the article? If yes, please let me know in the comment section below. Among the breeders mentioned above, which breeder did you like the most? Please let us know in the comment section which size, age and color of golden pups you prefer the most. Michelle Brown. Website: Stargate French Bulldogs 2. It is a family-oriented breeding program that produces some of the healthiest, happiest, and most beautiful French bulldog puppies possible. The family has over 25 years of experience breeding Frenchies. You will significantly benefit from their wealth of experience and knowledge when you buy a puppy from them, If this is your first time owning a French Bulldog puppy, Blue Grit Kennel is one of the best breeders from whom to buy this breed. They care about their puppies and always follow up to ensure they are healthy and happy. The family provides all their clients a lifetime of support and guidance, so rest assured you will not embark on this journey alone. Another amazing thing about Blue Grit Kennel is its pricing model. Their puppies are affordable despite investing a lot of time, effort, and money in raising them. All their puppies are bred from AKC-registered parents with exceptional bloodlines. The puppies also have AKC registration. After birth, the puppies are thoroughly examined by a licensed vet. Their puppies go home with a health certificate and are fully vaccinated. The family also deworms at the appropriate time. They can deliver your puppy to you regardless of where you are in Alabama. Shipping is also available via trusted puppy nannies to major cities in the US. Besides health, this family focuses on other things like socialization and temperament. The French Bulldog requires early training and socialization, which this family understands. The puppies are socialized with kids and other animals daily. Potty and crate training are also part of their program, ensuring your new family member comes home well-socialized and semi-trained. They can melt your heart with those big loving eyes. They learn quickly and are always eager to please you, their best friend. Frenchies are an attractive and eye catching breed. Their bodies are small but muscular and heavy boned, giving them their characteristic appearance that is so desirable. They average 18 to 24 pounds, so are small enough to fit into most living situations. They love car rides, leash walks, and just spending time with you. We have adorable frenchies for sale in Alabama. We selectively breed for health and temperament, cuteness and specialize in standard, rare and exotic color French bulldog puppies. We DNA health and color test all our dogs. All of our puppies are AKC registered so our customers know they are getting healthy and purebred puppies. We follow a strict vaccination and deworming schedule and all our puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee. All of our puppies are microchipped and they come with a microchip enrollment form. Our goal is to have all of our puppies go to loving pet homes or to qualified breeders. Our puppies are raised around adults, kids and other French bulldogs. This helps socialize the puppies so they can quickly adjust to their new home. When you bring home your new best friend from WW Best French Bulldogs, you know that they are healthy, happy, and well-loved. We are dedicated to raising happy, healthy, and well socialized family companions.

If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Utah Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Utah? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Utah? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

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

Do Labradors Sleep Through the Night? There may be a lot of causes, though, if your dog sleeps more than 15 hours each day. Age, breed, amount of activity, and environmental circumstances are just a few of the multiple variables that affect how much sleep your dog needs. If your dog appears to be sleeping more than usual, analyze any environmental changes. Minor lifestyle adjustments for your dog might have a major impact on how they sleep. You might be curious as to why your Lab sleeps so much. If you have a smaller dog, it could seem like they are sleeping more or more than you are used to. The following are some reasons for changes in the sleeping pattern of your Labrador. Diet If your pooch has begun sleeping more since changing its food, nutritional variations could be the problem. Large dogs like Labradors typically sleep for 12 to 14 hours each day source. Your Labrador will probably sleep even longer if it is a puppy or an older dog. Weather It can be the case that the hot temperature has been making you feel exhausted if the weather has gotten hotter where you are. In this situation, providing it with access to shaded areas, water, and a cool room throughout the day would be beneficial. It would also be beneficial to walk it in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler. Aside from that, it would be beneficial to keep it out of the sun as much as possible to prevent heatstroke. Illness It may have been sleeping more recently due to a disease. That would be more likely if it had more recently started to sleep and had been displaying other symptoms of illness, such as weariness while up. It would be better to take it to the vet in this situation. Boredom Its tendency to sleep more might be because of boredom and lack of stimulation. A lot of daily activity is suggested for the breed of Labradors. It is often advised that they exercise for an hour each day. Click here to learn more. Activity Level Does your dog like frequent strolls across the park? Or does your dog prefer to sit on the couch? The American Kennel Club AKC estimates that a puppy that is highly active when awake may require up to 18 to 20 hours of sleep each day. Less active dogs, on the other hand, often sleep for just around 14 hours daily. No matter how active your dog is, the best strategy is to spread their exercise throughout the day. Dogs often want to snooze frequently to rejuvenate. Aging Puppies and senior dogs typically sleep even more. Puppies sleep more because they are quickly growing and because sleep is when their muscles are rebuilt. Older dogs sleep more because getting around takes more energy and they become weary more quickly. Click here to find out. Since they are young, being separated from their mother may make them feel lonely and afraid. Throughout the night, they could also need to feed or go outside a few times. Before assuming that the dog can sleep through the night, you will need to allow them some time to acclimate. They will eventually quit complaining and keeping you up at night so they can sleep through the night like everyone else. But you might be wondering when this is going to happen for those new pet owners who are sick of waking up in the middle of the night. When a Labrador Retriever reaches the age of around four months, pet owners may anticipate that they will begin to sleep through the night. They have reached an age where they can successfully sleep through the night and are less likely to need to get up in the middle of the night to obtain attention or for any other reason. The simpler it is to encourage the puppy to accomplish this milestone, the more of a foundation you provide for them early on. Each puppy may react differently to being in your house, and some may take a little longer to sleep through the night. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Puppy Sleep Schedule by Age By Anastasia Efimenko on Feb 3, To keep your puppy healthy and obedient, you need to establish a daily routine, including feeding, walking, playing, and sleeping schedules. This article will discuss what a puppy sleep schedule should be and how much puppies sleep at different ages. Many people don't know how long puppies should sleep during the day. And lack of sleep negatively affects the nervous system, causing various behavioral problems. How long should puppies sleep? According to the AKC , puppies at weeks should get hours of sleep per night! Most puppies are weaned from their mother and brought to a new home at this age. This schedule persists until about 20 weeks of age. As the dogs get older, sleep time is reduced to hours. Thus, little puppies are awake for only hours. This time is divided into different short chunks of time during which the puppy has time to play, eat, and do other things. Why do puppies sleep so much? Some new dog owners mistakenly believe that their puppy sleeps too much. They purposely wake the pet during the day so that it "sleeps better at night. And I understand the desire to spend more time with your cute little puppy. But keep yourself in check. Puppies sleep so much for a reason. During puppyhood, their bodies develop at a breakneck pace. It takes a lot of energy for the bones, muscles, and brain and therefore the nervous system to develop properly. The consequences of sleep deprivation in dogs can be stress, anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral disorders. Just imagine, a dog develops in a year like a human develops in 18 years! How to set a sleep schedule for a puppy? First, we'll determine how much your puppy sleeps at night and then distribute the remaining sleep time throughout the day. Typically, dogs between weeks can sleep hours, but they still need to take a potty break at night. So if your dog wakes up at night, it means it needs to pee. Do not play or pay attention to it during this time. But there is one problem with sleeping at night. Puppies are often difficult to tuck, and they also don't want to sleep alone. So your job is to: learn to put your fluffy to bed at the same time; provide all the conditions for a peaceful sleep. To do this, you need to arrange a quiet place to sleep with a comfortable bed; we also recommend using a crate. In a crate, the puppy will be safe and also more peaceful. If you don't already know about crate training at night , then check out this helpful tool; make sure your pup uses up its energy during the day by exercising and playing. What time should the puppy go to bed? Going to bed one hour after meals and an evening potty walk is advisable. Specific times don't matter; you have to build a schedule to suit you. Although tiny puppies can't sleep as long as humans, after 16 weeks, you can train your puppy to go to bed and get up with you. Daytime sleep schedule Dogs wake up as the sun rises. So if you want to push back the wake-up time, then put the dog bed in a darker place. Usually, you don't need to take any action to get your puppy to sleep during the day. They will do it anyway. What your job is: don't disturb your pet, don't wake it up if there are kids in the house, they need to learn this too ; do not arrange training and active games before bedtime, as this makes puppies overexcited and unable to fall asleep. Although the daytime sleep schedule will be flexible, it's advisable to make sure that your puppy has several two-hour naps. Their number depends on age, as does the total amount of sleep in a hour period: puppies at 8 weeks need about 5 two-hour naps; after 12 weeks, there may be four; and after 16 weeks, three. According to all the advice in this article, let's make a rough daily schedule for a week old puppy: To summarize Puppies need hours of sleep a day for normal mental and physical development. Therefore, you should not interrupt their sleep. The second main point is to accustom the puppy to fall asleep at the same time. To do this, try crate training. Puppies up to 16 weeks can sleep hours a night, but with potty breaks. After 16 weeks, your pet probably won't bother you at night. Ensure your furbaby has a comfortable, quiet place to sleep and stick to its routine. Then everyone in the house will sleep peacefully! About the Author: Anastasia is the author of trainingyourpuppy. Anastasia has been writing useful articles for five years. She has experience in raising cats and dogs of different breeds. At the moment, Anastasia has a pug and 2 cats that she loves very much. Your Labrador puppy might be a dynamo when they are awake and then fall into a deep sleep in the middle of the action, like a magic trick. REM and Your Puppy Much like human babies, your Labrador puppy will spend between hours sleeping, and the rest causing mischief and delightful mayhem. Like people, your pup experiences REM or Rapid Eye Movement, which is essential for brain processes such as learning and processing daily experiences. Unlike humans, your labrador pup has a polyphasic sleep pattern meaning that they sleep multiple times in a 24hr cycle. Puppies that have more activity before their nighttime sleep tend to move from a drowsy state to REM quicker. Experts in this field believe that dogs use REM to consolidate their memories and need REM to retain their learned skills. This learning is also essential when teaching your labrador puppy routines such as sleeping through the night. How Long Do Labrador Puppies Sleep at Night Your Labrador puppy will initially only sleep a maximum of three hours, as their tiny bladders are not fully developed yet. Expect to be woken once or twice in the early hours for your puppy to use the bathroom. It may be an idea to set your clock for two to three-hour intervals so that you can allow your puppy to go to the bathroom without getting into the habit of walking you for bathroom needs. Your Labrador puppy should be sleeping through the night or roughly hours by the time they reach the age of 4 months. It is essential to teach your Labrador puppy to learn your sleeping routines and sleep when you do at night. However, you should be in no hurry because your puppy needs time to learn how to match their sleeping patterns to your own. Establish a routine where you put your pup to sleep at the same time and place. Some owners prefer to train their Labrador puppies to sleep in a crate when they are eight weeks. Although it makes logical sense, some may see this as a bit extreme. Labrador puppies thrive on human contact and need contact to transition from their separation from siblings and their mother. It would be best if you kept the puppy nearby in your room unless you aim to let them share your bed as adults. This way, you can be attentive to their needs and let them out to do their business. Preparing Your Labrador Puppy for a Sleep Schedule Daytime Sleep Puppies also need to sleep during the day and often drop off mid-stride after energetic play. Once they wake, they are refreshed and ready to cause mischief once more. These day naps can last anywhere from thirty minutes to a couple of hours. Daytime sleep is as essential as nighttime rest, and you should try not to disturb or move them unless it is to make them more comfortable. Keep them entertained with playtime and attention before you intend to sleep yourself. They need to learn that nighttime is not for play but for sleep. Puppies are like babies and need to learn to understand the world around them. I am a firm believer in dogs that share my life, share my bed. Dogs in the bed may be contentious, but it seems the benefits may be reciprocal as studies show that humans sleep better with a dog in their bed. Whether a crate or a bed is your preference, you should consider these tips when readying your pup to follow a nighttime sleep schedule: Designate a sleeping area. Whether you chose a puppy bed or a crate, you should try and make the sleeping area as comfortable as possible for your puppy. You should explain to children or others in your space that the puppy should not be disturbed when they are in their sleeping area. Make the area a calm and positive space. Allow your puppy to familiarize itself with the sleeping area or bed and reward your pup with treats so that they associate the area with positive experiences. Set a waking and sleeping schedule. Puppies soon learn human waking and sleeping times, and you should stick to an established time for morning waking and nighttime sleep. Encourage day naps in the sleeping area. After play and exercise, introduce your pup to the sleeping area for daytime naps, so they associate the area with quiet time. Keep the area quiet and dim. If your puppy is in your room, turn off brighter lighting and turn down your television volume if applicable. If you choose a crate, throw a light cover over it to make a safe nest for your pup. Set a routine that nighttime is not for play and Reward your pup with treats when they go into their crate or sleeping space. Even adult labradors thrive on close physical contact with their owners and love nothing better than a cuddle. Labrador puppies crave physical contact even more so and love nothing better than being close to their human parents. However cuddly they are as pups, Labradors will grow on average to 29—36 kg 65—80 lb for males and females 25—32 kg 55—70 lb. They are a medium-large breed, and I can vouch for the fact that they take up quite a bit of space on the bed. They also love anything muddy and wet and often drag soggy treats onto the pillows for fun. And noises from the other end. However, you may opt for a dog bed nearby your sleeping space as a more spacious option while staying in close contact with your dog. Conclusion It seems strange that a Labrador puppy that sleeps on average 18 hours a day can still consistently wake you in the wee hours. Your furry Labrador pup will steal your heart and possibly a month or two of unbroken sleep at the same time. Consistency is key to giving your Labrador the time to learn and develop enough to understand the need for nighttime sleep. With the right training and patience, your pup will be sleeping the same hours as you in no time at all. Related Articles. So, where should your Lab puppy sleep? A Labrador puppy should sleep in a crate or dog bed. The easiest option is a crate as you can control his environment better, and it also helps to toilet train your puppy quicker. If you choose a dog bed, partition off an area of the house using baby gates or a playpen. As a first-time dog owner, I took the sound advice of my breeder. He told me that a crate is the easiest way to train a pup to sleep well — and for faster potty training! Although I could hear my puppy cry once in a while during her first night, after that, she was fine. This is quite normal, and your dog will soon get to love his crate — he will recognize it as his special place where no one else is allowed! Here are some helpful tips to help your Labrador settle in his crate and sleep well, especially on his first night: Make sure you buy the correct size. Use a divider to partition the crate in half. As the crate will be too large at first, you can use a divider to adjust the size as your Labrador grows. I like the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate from Amazon as it has everything you need and comes with an all-inclusive divider and wipe-clean removable tray. You can also choose either a single or double door that is handy. Cover half of the crate with a blanket. Situate the crate close to your bedroom. A quiet area for sleeping is best, not too far away from your bedroom, so you can hear your pup if he needs to go outside during the night. Or you can choose to put it right next to your bed if space allows. If you put the crate in your bedroom, you can transition to another part of the house after a few weeks. I chose to put the crate at the end of the landing as I am a light sleeper, and I hate having my sleep disturbed! Remember, dogs have different sleep cycles from humans! Check out this step-by-step guide to learn tons more on crate training, Easy Labrador Puppy Crate Training. Check out my recommendations for the Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens , including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. If your Labrador puppy is having a tough time sleeping through the night, you may wonder exactly when they might be able to master this new skill! Labrador puppies typically sleep through the night by 4 months old. At this age, they should sleep between hours. If you lay the foundations on the first night, your puppy may be able to achieve a night without waking up sooner. It can also help if you have a good routine and are an early riser. Here are some helpful tips to speed up the process of getting your pup to sleep through the night: Routine. Dogs thrive on routine, so ensure you establish a good bedtime routine. Potty breaks. Make sure you allow your pup to go potty right before bedtime. However, young puppies may need to go outside during the night while their tiny bladders develop. Interactive puzzle toys are also great for mental stimulation. Crate training. You can learn what to do instead in my article all about common Labrador behaviors. But are you wondering at what age your Labrador can sleep with you? This allows him to be fully potty trained and sleep through the night without having to go potty or cry for you. This interesting study compared human-canine sleeping with adult-child co-sleeping and evidenced that both shared similar benefits and drawbacks. Remember, dogs who are territorial or aggressive should not sleep in your bed. Some of the most common health benefits of sleeping with your Labrador include: An overall reduction in depression and anxiety. Increased feeling of security. Provide companionship and decrease loneliness. Reduced stress. Lowered blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. A decrease in hypertension. Cons of Sleeping with Your Labrador Of course, there can be negatives to allowing your Labrador to sleep with you in your bed. Labs are also heavy shedders, and you may find pet dander uncomfortable. Your dog can sometimes carry harmful germs. It may affect your relationship! If you sleep with a partner, allowing your dog to sleep in your bed can cause friction and disruption. Although you may suffer from disturbed sleep if you sleep with your dog, you are unlikely to be affected by his night-time antics if you are a deep sleeper. Indeed, this study from The Mayo Clinic looked at the sleep of 40 healthy humans and their dogs occupying the same bedroom to find out whether sleeping together was detrimental to sleep. Human sleep quality was lower if the dog slept on the bed rather than just in the room. Nonetheless, even if you allow your Labrador to sleep with you, only let him onto your bed when you say so. Your dog should not have free reign of your bed, which can hinder how he views the pecking order. But what about modern dogs? Do Labradors actually like sleeping with their owners? Most Labradors like to sleep with their owners as a sign of affection and closeness. Dogs are social animals and instinctively want to sleep with you as they like to be close to their pack, and you are the head of the pack! They also want to protect you and display their loyalty and trust. Some dogs might get too hot on your bed and may temporarily move onto the floor to cool down. Some might not want to sleep with you at all! Always have another place where your Labrador can sleep, such as a bed or crate nearby where he can get warm and cozy. Can a Labrador Puppy Sleep Outside? Labrador puppies grow very quickly, which leaves some pet owners wondering when would be the right time to transition their pooch to an outdoor sleeping area. But can a Labrador puppy sleep outside in the first instance? Labrador puppies can sleep outside, but not until they are between months of age. They also need to be socialized, trained, and spend time bonding with their family. The health risks around this become more precarious in extremely hot or cold temperatures. The same goes for the rarer long-haired Lab. Your Labrador is more at risk of diseases and parasites. Until your pup has received his vaccinations to keep him healthy, he is more vulnerable to illnesses and parasites. Immunizations are typically not completed until 16 weeks, so training him to sleep outside sooner than this may compromise his health. Your Lab needs to be socialized and trained. All puppies must be socialized, obedience trained, and allowed to bond with their family. Without proper socialization, you risk your Lab becoming fearful, reactive , nervous, or even aggressive. To ensure that your Labrador puppy is healthy and safe when sleeping outside, there are a few things you should always make sure he has. These items include: A doghouse. This provides your puppy with a safe space to feel safe and snuggle down. I would definitely have this Petmate Dog House from Amazon on my wish list! A bit pricey, though! Water bowl. Make sure your Lab has his favorite water bowl filled to the brink every night. Favorite toys. To make your puppy feel comfortable and relaxed, put his favorite toys wherever he sleeps outside. When all is said and done once your dog has matured, it is a matter of personal choice. Here are the key takeaways from the article: You may choose to let your new puppy sleep at your side. When he has grown, you can let him sleep on your bed. He needs to be fully house-trained and at least six months old. The benefits of sleeping with your Lab are security, bonding, and mental health. Negatives include disturbed sleep and an increase in your allergy symptoms. Most Labradors like sleeping with their owners. You can transition your dog to sleep outside between months of age. Related Posts You May Like:. Where do dogs sleep? Dog sleep patterns are fascinating things. They have what is called polyphasic sleep, where they have periods of wake and sleep that occur during both the day and the night. And help you to understand the changes that occur in different stages of their lives, including when they are unwell. How Long Do Dogs Sleep? Dogs have a sleep pattern known as polyphasic. This means that they have multiple periods of sleep scattered throughout the day and night. A feature that they share with many other mammals. Dogs have better night vision than we do. So their ancestors could hunt both by day and by night, if necessary. In fact, hunting at night may have given them some advantages. It is easier to creep up on your victim under the cover of darkness. Dog Sleep Patterns Sleeping all night had no advantage for dogs, so dogs did not evolve a natural tendency to sleep for a single long stretch of time like we do. Instead, they acquired the useful ability to get as much sleep as possible, often in short stretches, whenever there is nothing much going on. You may have noticed that your dog wakes up instantly and is ready for action right away. And living with humans means that most dogs do learn to sleep the night away without disturbing their human family. Though they may wake and move around briefly during this period of time. If your dog is not sleeping through the night and disturbing your sleep, consider whether he is getting enough daytime activity and stimulation. Dogs have retained their ability to sleep whenever life gets dull. Studies of guard dogs have shown that dogs are not disadvantaged by being woken up frequently or working in changing shifts. They simply sleep when they get the chance. But how many hours sleep does a dog need during each 24 hour period? Dogs naturally sleep for longer periods of time each day than people do. But just like humans, sleep needs vary among individual dogs. Sleep needs also vary among different dog breeds. Adult Labradors will sleep for well over half of every 24 hours, and puppies under four months old may sleep as much as 20 hours a day. The reason for all this sleeping may have to do with a special type of sleep called rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep during which dreaming takes place. Do Dogs Dream? Dogs certainly appear to dream in the same way that we do. And their brains behave in a similar way to ours during the sleep cycle. REM sleep is just one phase of the sleep cycle that both dogs and humans experience. A study published in showed that REM or dreaming sleep decreases as dogs get older. So it looks as though puppies dream more than adult dogs. Sometimes when fast asleep, your dog will make twitching and running movements with his paws, and some dogs will give little yips and barks. This is a normal part of deep REM or dreaming sleep. Studies have also shown that if the part of the brain that de-activates movement during sleep is removed from a dog, the sleeping dog will actually carry out the behaviors that he is dreaming about. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie! We know that in humans, REM sleep is important. Being deprived of REM sleep can cause unpleasant effects, and there is no reason to think that dogs are any different. It is important to allow your dog to sleep deeply when he wants to and to not interrupt his sleep when he starts dreaming. Some veterinary specialists speculate that dogs sleep more than humans because their REM sleep is often interrupted due to their ability to wake easily and quickly and be ready for action. Because of that wakefulness, dogs need more periods of sleep in which to get an adequate amount of REM sleep. If you are worried that your dog may be ill because he is sleeping so much, ask yourself what has changed. Is he sleeping a lot more than he was just last week? Or has he always slept this much? Is he bright and bouncy when he is awake? Does he have a good appetite? Or does he seem lethargic or uninterested in food? Excessive sleeping in a dog that is eating well and full of energy when awake is unlikely to have any significance. And some elderly dogs tend to sleep more than they did when they were young. Make a Special Sleeping Space Your Labrador, like all dogs, is able to awaken quickly from sleep and be ready for action, whenever an opportunity presents itself. However, constantly interrupting his sleep is not a good idea. While many confident dogs will sleep pretty much anywhere, it is important that every dog has his own sleeping space. A place where he can go and relax when he wants to. Even if your dog shares your bed at night, he should still have a bed somewhere in the house that he can call his own. It needs to be somewhere free of drafts and comfortable, preferably lined with a cozy mat or blanket. Elderly Labradors may need thicker padding to support their joints. Orthopedic dog beds can provide extra comfort. It is here, in his special space, that your dog can relax fully and sleep deeply. Dogs naturally sleep for long periods of time, and sleeping a lot is nothing to worry about in a dog that is active, enjoying his food and living life to the fullest. Just like people, dogs need deep REM sleep, and constantly interrupted sleep can be harmful. You can check out crate information here: The benefits of a dog crate.

Advice before making contact Tips and advice when contacting a breeder While we make every effort to ensure that the breeders listed on Perfect Pets are registered, responsible, and maintain high ethical standards, please take 5 minutes to read the advice below and also see our detailed information on finding a reputable breeder. Our recommendation is that you purchase pets locally and in person. For many reasons, it is always preferable that you meet and get to know the breeder and vice versa. While many reputable breeders send animals interstate safely and without issue, we do not encourage this. When you contact a breeder, keep in mind that responsible breeders will want some information about things like - the type of home you will offer, how much time you have for your new pet, if you have experience with the breed and if not, if you've researched the breed. Responsible breeders don't want to receive emails and messages that simply ask 'how much for a puppy? Please make sure the breed you are interested in suits your family and lifestyle, and that you can give it the type of home it needs to be happy. Above all - use common sense and don't be impulsive. Please ask the breeder these important questions: 1. Can you meet the mother and father, and how old are they? Have the mother and father had any health issues? What health checks and tests were done on the parents and grandparents, are they appropriate for the breed, and can this be verified with documentation? Specifically, what vaccines have been given? Are they microchipped and registered? Have they been treated for parasites fleas and worms , and what treatments were used? Have they been checked by a vet, and is there evidence of this? How much socialisation has the puppy or kitten had? If answered positively and appropriately the answers to these questions should reassure you that the puppy or kitten you're interested in will grow to be a happy healthy animal. Please note that information regarding breed specific health checks can at times be difficult to understand and interpret. Common genetic disorders are a serious and growing concern. It's not a bad idea to write down the information you've been given and seek advice from your vet for confirmation. Breed clubs are also great sources of information on health testing. A responsible and caring breeder will also want to make sure you are going to provide a loving and safe forever home, and will ask you lots of questions. They will also provide extensive advice regarding feeding, health, ongoing socialisation, and the long term needs of your pet. Please note that because Perfect Pets cannot be directly involved in interactions we cannot accept responsibility for any agreement entered into by a breeder and a pet buyer. Please follow the advice provided. Perfect Pets has no powers of enforcement and cannot guarantee the reputation of any breeder, or the soundness or suitability of the pet you choose. You must satisfy yourself that any pet you decide on is fit and healthy, and will fit with your family and lifestyle. They are muscular, but require regular walks so as not to get too chubby. Typically sport a soft and easily-maintained fawn or black short coat, the pug has a distinct wrinkly face and curled tail. Being a compact canine, the pug would be well-suited for those with apartments or small backyards, or someone looking for a lap dog. Brought from China to Europe in the s, the pug became popular with royals in the Netherlands, and later with Queen Victoria in England. These says, they are popular with royalty of a different kind; being a favoured breed of many celebrities. At Pups4Sale, you can find a selection of pug dogs for sale, without the worry of scam ads. We ensure that every ad is genuine before we upload it, making it a safe bet for finding your new pet. A loyal dog for around the home Pugs have a lot of personality and charm for such a small dog, and are a loyal companion. Being a docile breed, pugs are rarely aggressive and are fond of children, knowing when to play gently. They are a wonderful choice for families with young children in the house. Although they do require daily exercise to remain healthy and in good physical fitness, pugs can be known for being lazy and enjoy napping during their down time. Find a loveable pug dog for sale on our site Jump on Pups4Sale for an easy way to browse countless breeds of dogs on a trusted platform. Get searching, and find your new pug dog today! Checkout Who are we? Some have businesses, families and others are young professionals. One important quality we all share is a deep love and passion for animal welfare. There is a fire in our bellies to be the voice for the voiceless. It is this fire that enables us to make the tireless and often thankless commitment to rescuing pugs from often unimaginable horrors and give them a second chance at the life they deserve. PPRA was established in early , with the founding team have worked together in pug rescue for many years prior. PPRA also focuses on educating the general public about the reality of breeding exploitation. We have brought together an experienced team of foster carers, veterinarians and administrators who are committed to providing the best care for their rescues. This is a costly endeavour both financially and emotionally. A lot of the rescues that come into care are from puppy farms and backyard breeders who have exploited them for profit. These pugs usually suffer in small filthy cages their entire lives, often without adequate food, water, veterinary care or even the human affection they crave the most. Walking into these situations can be dangerous and very confronting, but we do what needs to be done to ensure the safe rescue of the pugs in need. The initial heartbreak quickly turns into a special bond with these rescues who get to experience vet care, a warm bed, nutritious food and being a part of a loving family for the first time. We are a registered charity committed to rescuing pugs, pug crosses and other brachycephalic breeds from abuse, neglect and exploitative breeding. Our experienced team of foster carers, veterinarians and administrators are committed to providing the best care for all our rescues. These tiny and adorable creatures are full of charm. They are also well-mannered, energetic and very playful. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? Puppies will only go to good homes and those with an understanding of Pugs. Puppies are raised in a family environment with loads of love and attention. They are very affectionate, playful and their little tails have just started to curl. Puppies will come with 3 days food supply, a puppy pack and their favourite toy. You will also receive information as well as paw paw ointment and puppy wipes. Mum fawn and Dad black are both pedigree and papered pugs. Genuine enquiries only, I am happy to answer any questions and viewing is available by appointment. Anitta Egel Pug Puppies I have 3 female pug puppies avaliable. Pedegree parents Mother is Black platinum weight 5. I am also willing to deliver within a 1hr radius of .Interstate purchases at buyers organisation and expense. All puppies will be vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped and have regular preventative worm medication. Puppies are all healthy, purebred, no health issues at all from either parent or their grandparents. They have all been wormed , vaccinated, vet health checked and microchipped. Very playful , eating solid foods and almost fully toilet trained. Each puppy comes with a complimentary puppy pack. Sharon Fisher 3 x jug puppies Boy puppy 1 photo 1, photo 2, top middle Boy puppy 2 photo 2, front Girl puppy 1 photo 2, far left, photo 3 - READY to go to their new homes Are you already an active person? Sweet girl 1 has gorgeous long legs and long body, is playful and would love a family or individual to include her in everything and anything you can offer her … with bounding enthusiasm and great appreciation, lickies. She was the first of all the puppies to shower a human with lickies. Boy 2 was firstborn and is the star of the whole litter at the vets. Totally unfazed no squeals having his temp taken, other medical checks performed, vaccination, microchip, worming. Looking for a well behaved family or individual for this well behaved boy. Dad is a Jug jack russel x pug long legs, short ears, fawn coat. Pronounced by vet as having good jaw formation. Are you looking for a puppy to join your family or to be a companion for you personally? Do you have a specific puppy preference? How have you prepared for this new potential arrival? Will you require a meet and greet opportunity with existing animals that are members of your current family? Are you prepared-accepting of the asking-advertised price? Located Guildford Last 2 pictures are mum and dad not for sale. Microchip: Dang Baby Pugs Only 2 girls left now, 3 boys all gone. All vaccinated, microchipped, and pet health care record. Dad pure, mum two thirds pug, one third jack rustle. Fussy about getting good owners, pets at our house are top of the food chain. Phoebe Purebred Pug Puppies 2 left We have exceptional examples of purebred pug puppies for sale. We have been breeding for many years and you can rest assured our puppies come from good stock. Our Pugs are raised with love and care in a warm, family environment. From day one, they are surrounded by human interaction and socialization, providing them with the best start in life. We nurture each Pug, ensuring they grow up to be friendly, affectionate, and well-adjusted companions. All pups come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped and wormed every 2 weeks from 4 weeks of age. The health and well-being of our Pugs are of utmost importance to us. They have been raised on their mother's milk and premium puppy food with vitamins for healthy development. We prioritize responsible breeding practices. When you bring home your Pug, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are getting a healthy and robust companion for life. Our puppies are in high demand, so act fast to reserve your bundle of joy. Contact us today to learn more about our available puppies! They thrive on human companionship and are known for their affectionate nature, making them an ideal addition to any loving home. Jordana Payne Purebred Pug puppies These beautiful puppies have been raised in a loving family home. They love kids and people in general and are confident, healthy, playful babies. Been fed premium food to ensure optimum growth. Both parents have amazing temperament and are beautiful family dogs. Neither parent has ever had any health issues and both cleared by vet as excellent examples of the breed to breed from. Puppies have been regularly wormed, will be vet checked, had first vax and microchipped prior to leaving. Their puppy pack will contain their vet certificate, microchip documentation, vaccination details, some premium food and a toy. We love to stay in touch with people who purchase a pup and always happy to answer questions and provide support once they leave. I have heaps more photos to share, was having trouble adding them to the add. Fawn, purebred, perfect health, microchipped and fully vaccinated. Inside and outside trained. Needs to go to a loving home as we are unable to keep him due to family circumstances. Danielle Jug x cavoodle These beautiful puppies are ready to find their new forever homes. Born on 22nd of March , they already have plenty of personality and grow more and more everyday. Pups are Jug x cavoodle. Our puppies are very affectionate and the perfect companion for your family. Both are very affectionate and loving dogs. If you are interested or want more information or even want to meet our babies please feel free to make contact. Julie Watson Purebred pug Puppies Beautiful purebred boys pup pugs. We have 3 beautiful healthy boys available to join their forever families at 8 weeks old. They will be vet checked, microchipped and vaccinated at 6 weeks. They will start being wormed at 2 weeks old. They will be fed Hill's puppy food, the same as their mum eat. Mum is fawn and father apricot. Both mum a dad are very healthy pugs. For more information please text me on Simone Humphrey.

All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Lay your contact paper out beforehand and measure it. Use a ruler to measure the contact paper and mark the measurements with a pencil. Cut the sections of contact paper using scissors. Remove any air bubbles in the contact paper by rubbing it with your palms. The self-adhesive contact paper should stick to the plywood itself. Even if the contact paper seems secure, it might lift up and the puppies could chew on it. Use the staple gun to secure the contact paper to the floor of the whelping box. Staple as close to the sides of the floor as you can. Place staples between two different pieces of contact paper if you want extra security. Aim the staple gun so the staple pierces the edge of one piece and the edge of another, binding them. Make sure you line the strips up perfectly with the floor of the box. These strips will form the 3 walls of the whelping box. When you're finished, the three strips should form a "U" shape along the sides of the floor. If you need to, have someone stand on the plywood floor and hold each wall as you drill the holes into the plywood. Drill holes at the corners of each wall and another hole in the center of each wall. Use your screwdriver and screws to secure the walls to the floor of the whelping box. Turn the screws to the right to secure them in place. Keep turning the screwdriver until it's very difficult to keep turning it. If they rattle or feel insecure, use the screwdriver to tighten the screws. You might need to drill extra holes between the middle screws and the outside screws in each wall if the walls aren't secure enough. Use the screwdriver to place the screws in these holes. Again, drill holes in the left side, middle, and right side of the doorway strip when you have it lined up with the floor of the whelping box. Use your screwdriver and 1. Here are some ideas for your small dog. Cardboard Box One of the least expensive whelping boxes is simply a cardboard box. Make sure it is big enough that your dog can stretch out in it. The nice thing about a cardboard box is that, once you no longer need the whelping box, you can simply throw it away. To make a whelping box out of cardboard, use these easy instructions: Find a box that your dog can comfortably lie down and stretch out in but not much larger than that. The sides should be at least to inches high. You want the sides to be too high for the puppies to climb over, but not so high your dog can't get over it when she wants a break. Smaller breed dogs will be fine with 12 inches, whereas larger breeds will need 24 inches. Cut a "door" into the side of the box for your dog to move in and out of the box. The width of the doorway should be about twice her body's width, and the edge should be high enough to keep puppies in but not so high she hits her belly on it. You will want to use some sort of covering on the cardboard to keep it from getting wet and to make cleaning it easy. You could line it with duct tape, plastic sheeting, tarps, or plastic drop cloths made for painting. Then cover whatever material you use with newspaper or old towels to make the flooring soft and comfortable. Plastic Storage Bin A plastic storage bin can also be used as a whelping box. You want to use the under-the-bed storage type so that the sides will be short enough for the mother dog to easily get in and out. If you decide to go this route, fold old towels on the bottom to ensure there is no chance that your dog will slip when she is moving around. Be aware that depending on the size of your pups, they may be able to get over the sides of the bin as they get bigger. In that case, you can extend the sides of the bin with cardboard. Ideas that will work for bigger dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and Rottweiler dogs , include: Appliance Boxes If you have a mid-sized breed, you may still be able to find a cardboard box. Check with appliance stores and home improvement stores that carry items that would require bigger boxes. If you can't find one, you still have some inexpensive alternatives. The downside to using these boxes is once the puppies get large enough, they will be able to get over the sides, which they wouldn't with a traditional whelping box with sides at least inches high. Kiddie Pool A hard-sided plastic kiddie pool usually costs less than twenty dollars, and you can get them in several sizes. They are also easy to clean. These pools will last for several litters of puppies. However, just as with appliance boxes, the problem with the kiddie pool is that the sides may not be high enough to keep the puppies in as they get bigger. There are newer types of kiddie pools made just for dogs that have higher sides. Another option for larger dog breeds is to use a water trough , which has higher sides. They're much more expensive but very sturdy and can be reused for whelping, as well as an outdoor pool or bathing area for your dogs. To make a whelping box out of a kiddie pool, find a pool size where your dog can lay out comfortably with some extra room for the puppies. You can line it with a round whelping pad, old towels, newspaper, or even covers made specifically for kiddie pools used for whelping. An excellent safety precaution is adding a PVC pipe frame that serves as puppy rails to keep the mom from rolling over and crushing a newborn pup against the sides. Just be sure the puppies can't get stuck under or between the pipes. To keep puppies from getting out of the pool when they get larger, you can run x-pens or playpen panels around the outside of the pool. Make sure you leave a doorway for the mom to come and go! Whelping Box Plans If you want to build your own cheap whelping box but prefer a different style, you can find simple whelping box plans on the Internet. Here are some to get you started: Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. You can adjust the size for your own breed of dog. The plans are for a very sturdy box that is easy to clean and take apart for storage while standing up to a lot of usage. Supplies needed include two 4-foot by 8-foot plywood sheets, four 2-by-4s for the pig rails, polyurethane, and hardware, such as steel three-corner braces, tee nuts, and cap screws. You'll also need a table saw, drill press, router, screwdriver, and drill with several bits. While the website includes detailed plans and instructions, if you're not accustomed to working with tools and lumber, you may want to hire a contractor to build this box for you. How to Build a Whelping Box with Puppy Rails The PetPlace website provides a very detailed set of step-by-step instructions on how to build a whelping box using plywood, wood strips, vinyl flooring, hinges, and corner braces. You'll also need to be handy in order to build this box, as tools required are a circular saw and drill. The floor is optional, and the instructions allow for removing it to create a bottomless box. The puppy rails are made from the wood strips, although you could also improvise and make a set of puppy rails using PVC pipes and connectors. Building a Whelping Box Another excellent set of plans for a whelping box built with plywood and hardware is found in this YouTube video. The box described in this video has the puppy rails built into the sides as well as two shelf areas in the back for supplies and can be placed on cheap vinyl flooring tiles for easy cleanup. The box was made for a labradoodle , but you can adjust the dimensions of the plans shown in the video for your own dog's size. Cheap Whelping Boxes for Sale If you're not mechanically inclined and balk at the idea of building anything with tools and lumber, you can purchase a box. There are plenty of options if you're on a strict budget. Check with local seller websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to see if anyone is selling a box. You can also look on eBay. If you know of any breeders in your area, you could try contacting them to see if they might have a box they want to sell or possibly even rent out to you. It's made of plastic and comes with one whelping pad and PVC puppy rails. If you plan ahead, you can check out the websites of some major manufacturers of high-quality whelping boxes to see if they have sales. Easy to Improvise There are a number of less expensive, homemade whelping box ideas that will work for dogs of all sizes. You can improvise to create suitable whelping boxes that won't break your budget without too much trouble. Just spend some time looking at whelping boxes so you know how they are made and pick the most comfortable and safest style for you, your dog, and her pups. In this section, we highlight whelping box plans and ideas covering a wide range of designs, sizes, and styles. DIY Open Bottom Whelping Box This whelping box sports an open bottom for extra cushion and to reduce the risk of injuries from nails and other joining tools. Instead, steel corner braces are used on top of the box, and steel tee nuts between the plywoods. The setup helps the whelping box stay lightweight with their easy-to-disassemble parts, making it also easy to store when not in use. The box features small cutouts on the plywood to serve as handles and make it easy to move. The large cutout on one side provides easy movement in and out of the box for the mother while restricting the puppies. Its size and the quality of the wood ensure it can fit large dogs without damage. While tools like a screwdriver or drill bit, table saw, router, and round-over bit are also required. See Plan 2. Large Whelping Box with Door The whelping box carries the mother and her puppies, so you may need to build a giant box, depending on the dog breed. This large design is great for a large dog breed with several puppies. It features a door with a door latch so you can close it when you want. The large project requires a lot of materials which is why a large MDF panel is used for this project. Mark the center of the front board and cut out a door. Pay extra attention when cutting MDF panels, as they are not the strongest and can break. For more durable boxes using this plan, consider other stronger plywoods. The plan uses fleece material to pad the floor and the insides of the box while paint covers the outsides giving it a vibrant look. The folding door is the first to be built for access into the box. Use the plywood cut in the dimensions indicated inside the plan to make the four sections of the box. With screws holding the pieces going from outside to inside the wood strips, you ensure they are aligned properly to avoid any screw tip protruding from the wood. Gait hooks on the top of each corner add to the durability of the whelping box. Always add puppy rail to prevent the mother from crushing the puppies against the wall. See Plan 4. Pressboard Whelping Box Pressboards have high mechanical strength and chemical purity and can be a great material for building your whelping box, as shown in this plan. The pressboard is covered with a white fonalica-like finish that creates a smooth and attractive surface. While the plan features the processes required to build the box , it is not quite detailed, which makes the plan more suited for intermediate-level builders. Before you get started with building this pressboard whelping box, you should get these materials; pressboard, caulk to fill in holes, mat for the box floor, PVC pipes, PVC end caps, aluminum angle iron, wood screws, glue, and channel iron. You also need to source tools like markers, large scissors, C-clamps, saw, hammer, PVC pipe cutter, screwdriver, and drill. See Plan 5. Its simple structure relies on making the right cuts and joining using common attachment methods. Use a saw to cut this piece into four equal pieces. Cover one side of all the other pieces using the self-adhesive contact paper before joining the pieces with screws. Bear in mind that the parts with contact paper will serve as the outside-of-the-box. Ensure to keep the front board shorter than the rest to make it easy for the mother to enter and leave the whelping box. Some tools and materials necessary for this project include a staple gun, saws, drill, screws, self-adhesive contact paper, newspaper, and plywood. Place newspaper across the box floor to make it more comfortable for your dogs. See Plan 6. DIY Whelping Box for Small Dogs Most whelping boxes cater to large dog breeds, leaving small dog breed owners having to improvise to get the size suitable for their dogs. This box features a high enough dog that makes it easy for the mom to access the area but difficult for the puppies to leave. With the door latch helping you to keep the mom inside the box when required. The cutting process involves cutting the plywood into two across the long ends and then cutting them further into two across the short ends to get four boards. Ensure to keep the smooth side of the boards inside to protect the dogs from injuries. See Plan 7. Measure the door on the front board and cut it out, keeping the cutout intact. While most whelping box doors swing from the side, this door opens downward, which is more durable and safe. Before assembling the cut pieces, it is important to drill pilot holes into the boards to make attachment easier and prevent board damage due to extra pressure. Such a large whelping box is vital when expecting several puppies, but ensure to add rails inside the box to protect the puppies. Apply several coats of polyurethane over the box to increase its durability and allow you to use it for many litters. What to put on the whelping box floor? How big should a whelping box be? Measure the length of the mother, add a foot to it, and square it to get the appropriate whelping box size. How do you keep the box temperature ideal? Padding the box, adding insulation, and keeping the room temperature suitable for the dogs are some of the ways to maintain a healthy whelping box temperature. Some dogs prefer a cooler temperature than others, so you want to check the ideal temperature for your dog breed. Summary This article makes it easy for any DIY lover to build a suitable whelping box for their dog and puppies, even with little experience. With several plans giving you the option to choose the most suitable design for your specific needs. Check Out These Articles. Railings on the inside of the box are added to protect the pups from a restless mom. To protect the box, a bottom surface is added that is absorbent and washable. High walls will allow mom to exit and enter the box, while keeping pups in place. If you using carpet as shown , use an old piece that has had harmful chemicals washed off. Consider using removable sides to facilitate cleaning and storing the box after use. You can do this by creating grooves out of molding for the side panels and then use eye hooks to hold each panel in place. Make a shelf around the top of the box with wood pieces that are approximately 3 inches to 6 inches. The pups will crawl under these shelves and they will prevent the mother from crushing any of the pups when she moves or rolls over. Lighting is optional. Do not use anything that can be too deep for a pup such as a blanket or wood type chips. You can also buy a commercial whelping box pad. Pads have a downside if the pup crawls under the pad and the mom gets on top and inadvertently crushes the puppy. Newspaper at about 5" deep makes a good bottom covering. Do not use new carpet. Older carpet such as a bath mat that has been repeatedly washing works. Plan 2 You can also try whelping box blueprint plan 2 below offered by Rich Goiffon or this set of blueprints, drawings and materials from Robert Forbus. The box uses a plastic base and walls, with all materials available at Lowe and WalMart. Plan 3 Box Temperature Supply heat such as a heat lamp that will keep the area 85 degrees with the first week, then bring the temperature down each week until 72 degrees in week 6. Make sure the mom and pups cannot reach the lamp. Whelping Boxes for Sale Instead of using whelping box plans, you can purchase a whelping box for small dogs shown above or a disposable whelping box shown below Disposable Whelping Box. View plan 3. DIY Detachable Whelping Box A homemade whelping box will be much more cost-effective than buying one from the store or hiring an expert to build one for you who may or may not be familiar with your breed of dog. Whelping Box On A Budget! Gain new skills along the way: Working on a DIY whelping box project will teach you carpentry, painting, and construction skills — all while bonding with your pet! Easy DIY Whelping Box Be patient as you plan and build: Building a whelping box for your pup requires patience and focus — but it will be worth it in the end! Puppy Whelping Box .Whelping Box for Pregnant Dog .What Materials Do You Need? Building material There are many different options, such as plywood, cedar boards, cedar shingles, and so forth. Insulation Comes in many different types, including recycled newspaper, paper towels, bubble wrap, and so forth. Dogs love to feel cushioned when giving birth, and these items are easily found at most thrift stores. How to Assemble the Box: step by step guide 1. Cut them both from the same board. Stack them together and mark a line 3 inches in from each edge. Line up the marks on each side of the board and clamp them together, so you have a straight line down the center. Once clamped, use your circular saw to run down the line between each pair of marks, making sure not to go too deep into either side of the board. Constructing the Box Once you have your plywood cut, you can begin assembling your DIY dog whelping box. Be sure that all edges line up correctly the two pieces should fit together , and screw or nail them together using 2-inch nails or screws. Do both sides. Step 2 Put the other piece of cedar or plywood in the opposite direction, line up the edges, and then screw or nail them together. Step 4 Take a small scrap piece of wood and attach it to one of the ends. This will be used as a door for the whelping box. You may need to adjust the length depending on your door size, but be sure to measure twice and cut once. Step 5 Nail or screw in place with 2-inch nails or screws. Step 6 Now you have the frame of the DIY dog whelping box. Now we need to insulate and cover it with carpet or old rags. This makes for an inexpensive and simple DIY project, which will keep our pregnant dogs warm and comfortable during the birthing process. Step 7 After the insulation has been placed, get ready to put the rug or cloth on top. Using your staple gun, secure it around every edge. Step 8 Paint paint paint! Place plenty of food and water near the whelping box, as well as a litter pan if necessary. Conclusion A whelping box is a must for any dog owner who wants their pup to feel safe and cozy. Building the box yourself also saves money, which is always a bonus. To help support these efforts, this page may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Here I show you how I make a whelping box that is easy to take apart, move even up and down stairs and fairly easy to store. I prefer white or woodgrain. You would not need to have to store the platform, then. I prefer a raised platform and our puppies do, too. I also find it is really nice to add sheets of insulation between the support pieces to add warmth to the box. I measured the width of two of the shelving boards together and cut that amount off two of the boards. With the shelving boards cut, I started building the platform. I hope that makes sense! Screw all of your boards on. I took everything inside, wiped it down, and laid out my pieces. Note: I do not glue the vinyl down. I just lay it over the platform and put my side boards on top and it gets screwed down with the brackets. This way there are no glues to harm the puppies and I can throw it away after each litter. I then put it all together with the brackets. I use the flat brackets on the top corners. When the puppies are ready to get out of the box, by weeks of age, I remove one of the sides as you can see in the photo below. So, I do not have exact measurements, but I think most could figure it out. I build mine by first assembling the box, then I lay the PVC elbows in each corner of the box and one tee in the center. Cut the straight PVC pieces according to your measurements and put it all together. I do not use glue and do not seem to need it. The Little Blessings in their puppy room. These whelping boxes worked out fantastic for us and our needs. I hope this helps someone. Preparing to cut out the door for your DIY puppy whelping box You will need 1 piece of melamine for this step and also your circular saw and jigsaw. Measure 14 inches from both ends of the melamine board and cut as shown in the diagram below. Use your square to mark the areas for the cutout. It is important to use the jigsaw on the side cuts and your circular saw for the lower portion of the door. For the lower portion of the door, us your circular saw to create a starting cut and finish with your jigsaw. This will allow you to cut out the door without having any over cutting occur. Do not throw away your cutout as this will be used as your door slides. This should not be much to remove. You can use your circular saw or jigsaw for this step. This will allow the doors to slide easily in the track when installed. For the final step of the door preparation, you will need the Melamine roll of edging. Run a bead completely around the outer edge of both door pieces. Use your heating iron to adhere the edging to the door pieces. Round the edges to prevent any cuts from happening when reaching into the whelping box. Repeat the process for the other side of the door. Make sure the angles are pointing in towards the door opening as shown in the diagram above. This will ensure the door slides to operate properly and prevent them from hanging up on protruding screw heads. Assembling the DIY puppy whelping box Assembling the whelping box is easy! Lay them flat out on the floor side by side as shown in the diagram below. Next you will need the door panel that you cut in the previous step. When finished, countersink the holes and prepare the panel for installation. Stand the panel on end and join it to the front long facing floor panel. Repeat the process for the back of the whelping box. Use the same process for the sides, with the exception of drilling additional holes on both width ends to attach to the front and back panels of the whelping box. Make sure they are level with the panel inside and outside as well as the top and bottom. Assemble the corners as shown in the diagram below. Make a dry run before gluing all of the parts together to ensure a proper fit. The pig rails should easily slide in and out of the whelping box. It should be a snug fit when properly installed. Primer and glue all the PVC pieces together. You have just completed the DIY puppy whelping box. You may want to purchase a few whelping pads to ensure the comfort of mom and puppies. It also makes it a lot easier to clean up. We like to use odoban for easy clean up and odor control. We hope this tutorial was helpful for you. This whelping box design can be adjusted in size to fit your type of dog. They work great for the comfort of mom and also will prevent the whelping pads from sliding around. Add the finishing touches by using the veneer edging and cover all exposed edges of the melamine material. If you enjoyed this tutorial, and decided to build your own DIY puppy whelping box, please let us know how it turned out. What do you line your whelping box with? We like to use these whelping pads for our whelping box. They help ensure the safety and comfort of mom and puppies. You can also use incontinence bed pads , as they are very absorbent and can help keep your whelping box clean and sanitary. Can I use a kiddie pool as a whelping box? A kiddie pool is not a good long term solution for a whelping box. Puppies are able to escape easily, and it does not provide a safe atmosphere. They are very difficult to clean due to the molds that are used for the pools. There are small crevices in the molds that can trap bacteria and pose a risk to your What do you put in your whelping box? We like to use whelping pads inside our whelping box. You can also opt for a puppy nest warmer to keep the puppies warm and comfortable. We like to use a thermostat controlled nest warmer. Pig rails are a very important item to have in your whelping box. These help ensure the safety of your puppies when they are small. Pig rails help prevent mom from laying on the puppies and suffocating them. Do I really need a whelping box? The answer is YES! A puppy whelping box is an essential part of breeding dogs. A whelping box ensures the safety and security of your puppies. This also helps to provide a sanitary environment and a controlled atmosphere for your dog. This post contains affiliate links, which means we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. See our full disclosure Privacy Policy.