german shepherd puppies for sale in lexington ky

People love the hypoallergenic coats of Saint Berdoodles, which are usually low-shedding or non-shedding. Saint Berdoodles have wonderful temperaments and are usually great with kids. Saint Berdoodles have hybrid vigor, which results from crossing two purebred dogs. Hybrid vigor typically results in a healthier offspring, and Saint Berdoodles have a much longer life expectancy than a purebred Saint Bernard. Purebred St Bernards usually live years; whereas Saint Berdoodles are usually expected to live years. Anyone who has owned and loved a Saint Bernard might wonder why anyone would get a Saint Berdoodle instead. There's a seven-fold answer for why Saint Berdoodles win the battle for many families. St Bernard vs St Berdoodle Hypoallergenic: St Berdoodles usually have low-to-non shedding coats like poodles and are typically far better for people with allergies than a purebred Saint Bernard, which sheds its coat. Health: Hybrid vigor typically improves a dog's health. There's a reason that humans don't marry our relatives. Saint Berdoodles tend to have fewer health issues than a pure Saint Bernard. Intelligence: Poodles consistently rank as one of the top if not THE top breeds for intelligence. Saint Berdoodles are very quick learners. Trainability: Usually the St Berdoodle's increased intelligence makes them an easy dog to train. Saint Berdoodles love pleasing their owner. Walking Partner: Although Saint Berdoodles are one of the lowest energy doodles, they tend to be more active than a somewhat lethargic purebred Saint Bernard who usually prefers to lounge all day. Although a Saint Berdoodle will not be an active runner like a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, or Springerdoodle, you can usually take a Saint Berdoodle for a long walk--more so than a purebred Saint Bernard. Nathan Crockett was one of the first breeders to raise top quality Saint Berdoodles. We have people from all over the U. Saint Berdoodle Pricing. Saint Berdoodle Highlights Saint Berdoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Saint Bernard or Poodle parents. Two common color combinations of Saint Berdoodles are white-and-brown and white-and-black. They can also be red with white accents or white with red accents. The coats of Saint Berdoodles can take after either parent—wiry and curly for the Poodle, or longer and smooth or rough for the Saint Bernard. Saint Berdoodles are generally pretty well-equipped for cold weather, especially if their coats are similar to Saint Bernards. Saint Berdoodles are great with people of all ages, including kids. The only concern with these dogs is their size with very young children. Be sure to supervise interactions with very young children in case of accidental stepping or sitting. These dogs do not enjoy being alone, so they would love the company of other pets and family members. Saint Berdoodle History Historical records show Poodles being bred in the s and Saint Bernards being bred in the s, both in Europe. Saint Berdoodle breeding is a little more vague, but it looks like they were bred intentionally in the US beginning in the s. The rationale to combine the protectiveness and rescue nature of the Saint Bernard with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle for a family dog was strong. Between and alone, Saint Bernards rescued over 2, people. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Saint Berdoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Saint Bernard or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Saint Berdoodle Size Though there is quite a range of sizes for Saint Berdoodles, you can expect a larger dog, in general. Saint Bernards are always large, and Standard Poodles are medium-to-large. In terms of height, the range is typically between 15 and 30 inches. There have been attempts at creating a Miniature Saint Berdoodle, with a weight between 20 and 50 pounds, and a height between 14 and 18 inches, but miniaturizing a Saint Bernard usually involves breeding with a smaller dog, too—most commonly the Cocker Spaniel. You can expect your Saint Berdoodle to be friendly and affectionate, always wanting to be part of family activities. The only reason you may need to supervise interactions with Saint Berdoodles and very small children is just that these dogs are often quite large, so accidents may happen with sitting or stepping. Saint Berdoodle Health Saint Berdoodles are fairly healthy dogs. While mixing breeds can be a way to minimize genetic disorders, the resulting crossbreed can still inherit health problems from the parent breeds. Regular care and annual veterinary check-ups are a good way to keep your dog in prime health. Some of the more common health problems for Saint Berdoodles include: hip dysplasia. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of their parent breeds, well-socialized Saint Berdoodles tend to be affectionate and loving dogs with sweet natures and social personalities. This designer dog breed may not be recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Saint Berdoodle is a gentle giant that makes a great addition to any family. Well-socialized, they tend to be social and friendly with charming, cheerful personalities. They also tend to be affectionate, loving, and highly intelligent dogs. These dogs can be good watchdogs as they are initially wary of strangers and will alert you when someone is on the property. Although Saint Berdoodles do tend to have a protective instinct over their family and territory, they tend to be quite social and friendly and do not tend to be aggressive provided they have been properly socialized and trained. Saint Berdoodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Due to their sheer size, they are better suited to larger homes with yards where they can run and roam freely. They could potentially adapt to apartment living if they are given enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, but their size will definitely be a challenge in smaller spaces. This dog adapts well to most moderate climates. As a large, fluffy dog, they are also sensitive to heat and can easily overheat. Because a Saint Berdoodle craves attention, bonds closely with their family, and loves being with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A crossbred dog can inherit the potential health concerns common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Saint Berdoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog, the Saint Berdoodle is also at a higher risk of bloat just like both parent breeds. Bloat in dogs can become dangerous quickly and is fatal if the stomach flips. Although the Saint Berdoodle will grow to be a giant dog, they tend to be gentle and highly trainable. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please means they pick up on things quickly and are relatively easy to train. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They respond best to positive training methods that are calm and consistent and focused on reward and praise. Puppy training classes are always an option and can be a good opportunity to socialize a puppy, which is even more important in a dog this size. The maintenance your Saint Berdoodle requires will depend completely on the coat they inherit. But, they will require daily brushing and professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. You can also support your efforts to prevent dental diseases later in life with dental hygiene chews and treats approved by your vet. Saint Berdoodles tend to have a moderate energy level. They will be energetic while playing and require some exercise, but they will be happy to be a couch potato every now and then. Daily walks plus some time to play are usually enough for this big dog. They may not be a good fit for a running partner, but your Saint Berdoodle may enjoy going on hikes with you, taking trips to the dog park, or even going swimming. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until their bones and joints finish growing and developing. A fully-grown Saint Berdoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. They are one of the largest dog breeds. Saint Berdoodles generally live for years on average. This designer dog breed is most commonly known as a Saint Berdoodle, but they are also sometimes called a Saint Berpoo. Featured Saint Berdoodle Article. At 8, feet above sea level, crossing this part of Europe was extremely dangerous, with drifts of snow as high as 40 feet. During the late s, the monks bred powerful working dogs that were able to locate and rescue those trapped underneath the snow. Supposedly, these dogs never received formal training from the monks, with the younger dogs naturally learning how to perform these heroic rescues from the older dogs instead. The breed has adapted over the years, with other dogs like the Newfoundland being mixed into it. It has become larger than before with looks and personality being emphasized over its rescuing ability. However the St Bernard is still used for this purpose today, alongside being a popular family pet. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. Saint Berdoodles are rarely, if ever, bred from Toy Poodles. A Miniature Saint Berdoodle will weigh in at around pounds and stand roughly inches tall. The Standard Saint Berdoodle, will weigh approximately pounds and stand about inches tall. Their fur can range anywhere from wavy, like the Saint Bernard to curly like the Poodle and usually is of medium length. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Saint Berdoodles, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Saint Berdoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Saint Berdoodles Shed? While this can be true, due to the unpredictability of genetics, there is no guarantee that any particular dog, or litter of dogs will be hypoallergenic. For more details, check out our article on doodle generations as the examples apply directly to Saint Berdoodle dogs. However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. This is adorable but can go overboard if they become too clingy or develop separation anxiety. They are excellent with all kinds of pets as well as children as they are quite calm and gentle. Due to their large size, however, do make sure you keep an eye on them to prevent accidents with small children or elderly family members. While not typically aggressive, a Saint Berdoodle dog takes protecting their family seriously and make good guard dogs. Saint Berdoodles are fairly easy to train as they strive to please and catch on quickly. They are quite sensitive though, so make sure to use positive reinforcement and not an overly harsh or loud tone of voice. Depending how much they take after their Saint Bernard heritage, they can be content with just a short brisk walk each day. In fact, they actually can make good apartment dogs believe it or not!

By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. French Bulldog puppies have unique dietary needs that require special attention. There are a few key factors to consider. First off, opt for puppy-specific formulas that meet their nutritional requirements. Avoid recipes with fillers or artificial additives — go for wholesome kibble made especially for small dogs like Frenchies. A balanced diet is crucial in preventing common issues such as paw licking or upset tummies. With proper nutrition, your Frenchie pup will be ready to conquer the world one playful bark at a time. This premium dog food provides a balanced diet with a combination of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It contains essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth and support a strong immune system. One of the key features of Royal Canin Small Puppy is its small kibble size, which makes it easier for Frenchie puppies to chew and digest. This formula includes prebiotics to support digestive health and aid in nutrient absorption. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. This grain-inclusive formula includes deboned chicken as the primary source of protein along with wholesome grains like brown rice. The blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in Wellness Complete Health Puppy ensures that your furry friend receives essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe also incorporates omega fatty acids for healthy brain development and DHA for optimal eye health. We have never used this brand but I hear great things about it. This formula features deboned chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support muscle development. What sets Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe apart is its inclusion of whole grains like brown rice and barley. These grains offer a good source of energy and fiber while promoting healthy digestion. The recipe also includes fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes to provide additional nutrients. Royal Canin has been our go to french bulldog puppy food. After trying multiple brands such as Purina, Stella and Chewy, and Merrick no large quantity available for purchase, small bags got expensive , Royal Canin has never let us down. We have never noticed skin problems, intolerance, and poops have always been great. Other brands have caused vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions to name a few. French Bulldog puppies are energetic and growing rapidly, which means they need frequent meals throughout the day. It is recommended to feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. This regular feeding schedule helps maintain their energy levels and supports proper growth. Follow the recommended portion sizes based on their age and weight. Different brands may have specific guidelines tailored for French Bulldog puppies or small breed puppies in general. For puppies aged weeks: 1 cup of food per meal. Victor Ocean Fish All Life Stages Dog Food Remember that these portions can vary depending on individual factors such as activity level and metabolism. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if you notice significant weight gain or loss. Monitor their weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. While puppies naturally gain weight as they grow, excessive weight gain can lead to health issues such as joint problems. Keep an eye on their body condition and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about their weight. If your puppy is gaining too much weight, consider reducing the portion sizes slightly or switching to a lower-calorie puppy food formula. On the other hand, if they are not gaining enough weight or appear undernourished, consult with your vet to determine if an increase in portion size or a different type of food is necessary. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your French Bulldog puppy receives the nutrition they need during this crucial stage of growth. Providing proper nutrition will help set the foundation for a healthy and happy adult French Bulldog. Feeding your Frenchie the wrong food can lead to serious health issues and discomfort. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be highly toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. Onions and Garlic: A Recipe for Anemia While onions and garlic might add flavor to our meals, they pose a significant risk to our four-legged companions. This could lead to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications for your French Bulldog. The exact reason behind this toxicity is still unknown; however, ingestion of these fruits has been linked to kidney failure in some dogs. Xylitol: Sweetness Turns Sour Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products like gum or candy. While it may be harmless for humans, it can be extremely dangerous for dogs. If ingested by your French Bulldog, xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in seizures, liver failure, or even death. Opt for high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their needs. Look for options that include meat protein sources like chicken or salmon, as these are beneficial for their muscle development and overall health. Make sure the food you choose contains adequate amounts of vitamins and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. Avoid foods with excessive fat content that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues such as loose stools. Stick to dog-friendly fruits and veggies as treats instead. Chicken fat as dog food High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. Providing a healthy diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Opting for lean proteins like chicken and turkey ensures they receive high-quality nutrients without excessive fat content. These proteins promote muscle development, support growth, and provide essential amino acids for overall health. Opt for natural alternatives that are free from these artificial additives. Whole Grains: Nourishing Carbohydrate Sources Carbohydrates play a role in providing energy to your puppy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Instead of fillers like corn or wheat that offer limited nutritional value, look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats. These whole food ingredients provide fiber, vitamins, minerals while promoting steady energy levels throughout the day. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat To maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat on your furry friend, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. Sources like fish oil offer an abundance of these beneficial fats that nourish their skin from within. Not only do omega-3s contribute to a shiny coat but they also help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and overall health. By opting for lean proteins, avoiding artificial additives, incorporating whole grains, and including omega-3 fatty acids, you are providing the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a happy and active French Bulldog. So be mindful of what goes into their food bowl to ensure they grow up strong and free from unnecessary health problems. Now that you understand the importance of healthy ingredients in food, you can make informed choices when selecting the very best dog food options for your furry companion. Keep their health in mind as you provide them with nourishing meals that will support their growth and overall well-being. By following these feeding guidelines, you can provide your Frenchie with the balanced nutrition they need to stay in optimal health. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and respiratory difficulties. To keep track of their weight effectively, consider using a digital scale designed for pets or consult with your veterinarian. Adjusting Portion Sizes French Bulldogs have different dietary requirements based on their activity level and age. Puppies require more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development compared to adult dogs. To determine the appropriate portion size for your puppy or adult dog, consider consulting with animal nutritionists or your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on factors such as breed-specific needs and individual metabolism. Excessive treats can contribute to weight gain if not properly regulated. Instead of relying solely on treats for positive reinforcement, try using praise or playtime as alternative rewards. Be mindful of the calorie content in both regular meals and treats. Opt for healthier options like small pieces of lean meat or fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. You could even use it as a meal topper to make meal time more fun. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. Although certain health issues that French bulldogs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by French Bulldog include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in French Bulldogs. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in French Bulldogs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. French Bulldogs have short nasal passages and a compacted airway, which can lead to difficulty breathing, especially in hot or humid weather. Skin problems. Due to their wrinkles and folds, French Bulldogs are susceptible to skin infections, allergies, and dermatitis. French Bulldogs are prone to skinfold dermatitis, a skin infection caused by the accumulation of moisture and bacteria in their skin folds. Ear infections. French Bulldogs have long, floppy ears that trap moisture and dirt, making them prone to ear infections and ear mites. This condition is common in French Bulldogs due to their protruding eyes, which can easily get scratched or infected. Cherry eye. This is a condition where the third eyelid prolapses and becomes visible, causing redness and irritation. It is common in French Bulldogs due to their prominent eyes. Cleft palate. This is a congenital disability where the roof of the mouth does not form properly, causing difficulty in eating and breathing. It is less common than other health conditions in French Bulldogs. Heat sensitivity. French Bulldogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so they are prone to heat stroke and dehydration in hot weather. Hip dysplasia. This common skeletal disease affects many dog breeds, including French Bulldogs. It causes the hip joints to deteriorate, leading to pain and loss of function. French Bulldogs are also prone to spinal problems such as herniated discs, which can cause pain and paralysis. French Bulldogs need a balanced and nutritious diet with the energy and nutrients they need to stay active and healthy. If a French Bulldog is not getting the proper nutrients from its food, it may become lethargic, lazy, and less interested in exercise and play. On the other hand, if a French Bulldog is overfed or consumes low-quality food, it may become overweight, which can also reduce its activity level. Obesity in French Bulldogs can lead to various health problems, such as joint pain and heart disease, further decreasing their activity level. Therefore, providing French Bulldogs with high-quality, balanced, and appropriate food portions is crucial to ensure they have the energy and nutrients they need to stay active and healthy. Regular exercise and playtime can also help maintain their activity level and overall health. French Bulldog Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for French Bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult French Bulldogs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior French Bulldogs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. French Bulldogs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: French Bulldogs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for French Bulldogs. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. French Bulldogs are prone to eye problems like conjunctivitis and cherry eye, which can cause inflammation and irritation. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Look for dog food containing these vitamins, such as carrots or sweet potatoes. Limited ingredient options. If your French Bulldog has a history of food allergies or gastrointestinal disorders, consider choosing a limited-ingredient dog food that eliminates potential allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat, essential for French Bulldogs prone to skin infections and allergies. Look for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3s, such as salmon, flaxseed, or fish oil. Small kibble size. French Bulldogs have small mouths or suffer from cleft palate and may have difficulty chewing larger kibble, so choose a dog food with small, bite-sized pieces. Joint support. French Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia and spinal problems, so choosing dog food with ingredients that support joint health is essential. Look for foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health and mobility. Moisture content. French Bulldogs are prone to dehydration and heat stroke, so choose a dog food that has a high moisture content or add wet food to their diet. This can help keep them hydrated and healthy. Chapter 2: The Reviews. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!

Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. Bright eyes, strong profiles, and of course, those perky, attentive ears! When you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home, its ears will probably be floppy and droopy — at times, those ears may try to make a stand, only to fall back down again. What gives!? As your German Shepherd grows and gets the right nutrition among other things , the cartilage gets stronger and stronger. And voila — straight, pointy German Shepherd ears! But is it really that simple? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. German Shepherd puppy ears can be unpredictable! The key is to be patient and give those ears time to develop on their own before stepping in. Those ears should perk back up after teething is over. If you want to learn more about the timing of teething and what to look for, check out this article on German Shepherd puppy teething. When went to visit my German Shepherd, Allie pictured above at 7 weeks old , her ears were floppy and undeniably precious. I brought Allie home at 8 weeks, and those ears still had their ups and downs, but by 10 weeks old, her ears were up permanently. So, the key is to catch it in time. This flip-floppy stage is completely normal. Genetics can also come into play when some breeders try to breed specifically for German Shepherds with larger ears. As a result, those big, oversized, heavy ears may be too much to stand up. If pointy, perky ears are important to you, then choose your breeder and puppy carefully. Make sure to check out the parents — how do their ears look? Any significant trauma to the ears during this time can cause permanent damage — which may also cause droopy ears. Try to have everyone keep their hands off those adorable ears as much as possible. Parasites: Yuck. Puppies need chew toys, as it exercises their jaw and their head and neck muscles. Those muscles are important for perky puppy ears. So, let your puppy chew, chew, and chew on the right things of course. If you need some ideas for durable dog toys that can withstand those chomping jaws, then check out this article for my picks of the best tough German Shepherd chew toys. Stick to a high-quality, natural diet instead. Cottage cheese and yogurt both have plenty of calcium without overdoing it , and chicken feet are a natural source of glucosamine, which helps strengthen cartilage. Give those ears time to develop on their own before you resort to taping. At the end of the article are some sources that go over common methods of taping. Note: There are several options that you can use for this — there are even foam dog ear forms. Thin, white surgical tape that tears easily. A 2-inch wide tape works well, and you can also get this at Walmart, CVS, or somewhere similar. Note: Do NOT use duct tape or electrical tape — these will do way more harm than good! An unsharpened pencil or popsicle stick. Adhesive — either skin bond adhesive or eyelash glue are good choices. Give those ears plenty of time to develop and get stronger before taking action. How old was your German Shepherd puppy when its ears finally stood up? Let me know below! I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy.

The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. My Account Home of the baddest bulldogges in the south! Home of the baddest bulldogges in the south! Established in , we have been involved with various bully breeds for almost 2 decades! Through dedication, patience, and commitment we have developed some of the greatest most legendary bulldogges in the world! Our Bulldogges excel in the conformation dog show circuit exhibiting the ideal representations of the Olde English Bulldogge breed standard. It is vital for the integrity of this spectacular breed that we maintain genetically, structurally, and mentally sound dogs. All our puppies are raised inside our home with children and receive constant socialization and interactions within the home. This helps shape their temperament in the right direction from the start! All puppies are guaranteed to come pre-spoiled and full of fun! A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself. Khaos' Ruby ranks 6. Biggest accomplishment for a dog aside for a National BIS win. We finish the show season with 3 dogs in the top 10! September - Lykan takes his 40th Best of Breed win in his show career! I got Roxy in January and she is such a good girl! At 5 months she already knows how to sit and give kisses. Thank you!! Just wanted to tell you we are delighted with our new mini GoldenDoodle we got yesterday! She is the sweetest pup! Meet Elsa! She is so smart! Rolls over, shakes, rings a bell to go outside! Her little personality makes me laugh every day. My wife and I absolutely adore our female Whoodle pup that we purchased from you guys. Midnight is the sweetest pup and has so much love to share. We will hopefully be back this coming fall or spring to bring home another puppy. Good morning, I wanted to share a few pictures of our red minature goldendoodle we purchased from you. She is so fun, spunky, sweet heart and loves to play. She came into our home May .What a delightful, sweet dog. Thanks Valley View! I got her in Oct of .She is my sweet baby girl with lots of personality!! She is now 3yrs old and spoiled rotten!! We got Bear sometime in the beginning of and he is the best thing to ever happen to us. We drove three hours to get him and it was totally worth it. He is a very smart dog that can learn tricks in less than 10 minutes! His favorite trick is giving hugs! I have never met another dog that is this goofy. He loves eating socks, digging out of the trash and licking bellybuttons. He also farts when he stands and burps super loud. He makes me laugh and I love him so much! Thank you! This is Alfredo and we got him 15 years ago. This pup is Gizmo and we got her in January .We welcomed Winter into our family July of .She just turned 1 years old and is a very healthy beautiful girl. She enjoys the outdoors. She had an attitude the size of a horse and uses it to her advantage at times. She is spoiled beyond belief! The joy she has brought into our life has been amazing. Thank you for our beautiful girl. She is absolutely perfect! We have our two perfect girls now but if we ever decide these two need another sister we definitely will be back! Love the Beetcher family! This is Pixie Pickles. She is a great addition to our family. She is so friendly and has the best personality! We absolutely love her! Heston family We purchased a golden doodle from you Just before Christmas last year. We have been extremely happy with him, he is quite a character. Everyone who meets him, falls in love with him right away. Including my mom. I will attach a couple pics of Tucker also. Thank you very much. I hope you have a great rest of the day. Hello There, I bought Milo from April .Pandemic started then and since then has become my super companion. I remember his dad is called snow and mom is acorn. Are those 2 still alive? I just want to see what they look like. This is Milo now. He is soo happy and super clingy with us. But over all healthy dog. I will forever be grateful of the farm. He really helped me with my depression during the pandemic. Spoiled rotten is this dogs life now! Thank you so much we love her, and will definitely be back again when looking for another puppy. He will be 2 on January 14th he is the best and smartest pup we have ever had. This is Pixie Malshi. She joined our family in October .We fell in love with her picture online and the moment we saw her we knew she was perfect! She loves being around people and has the best personality. She fits in perfectly with our family. Hello, Just a quick update. We are not the original owners. He grew to be a 20 pounder. We have his teeth cleaned every year and has only lost 2 teeth. He is in excellent health. He was trained and certified as my PTSD service dog. He has taught himself other tasks to keep me safe including alerting me when my blood sugar drops. He has saved my life several times. He is my constant companion seeing me through life threatening surgeries and complications. I groom him as part of my PTSD therapy. Wherever we go he finds the one person who needs a hug. He is fantastic with kids. His soft mouth has help so many kids overcome their fears. We named him Harley. We are crazy in love with him! She is still very shy when it comes to people but she loves other dogs. She will start her puppy class on the 25th of this month. She loves her big sister Gabby. Her favorite toy is her elephant. She loves to snuggle and gives kisses she also loves to go for car rides.

My vet told me this was based on a flawed study of only 6 dogs. She told me to encourage my pup to do a few stairs per day. This would build up his muscles and ligaments to support his hips as he grew. This made perfect sense to me and I tried my best to encourage him up a few steps. He was having none of it. I won't go into all the things I tried I did ask at my GSD club and was met with horrified comments about not letting him do stairs. I eventually gave up. Less dog hair upstairs, LOL. He sleeps quite happily downstairs and we won't have problems when he gets too old to manage the stairs, like I did with my old boy. There were steep concrete steps, more than .I'd guess, leading up to another field. The smells must have been good because he went straight up, no problem. Coming down, he wasn't as confident at first but was ok. I suppose I'm going to find him upstairs one day but so far, he hasn't generalised the stair thing. I just tell him I'll be back in a minute and he waits patiently for me. George is just over 18 months now. Did anyone let their large breed pups do stairs? One reason for this is their lack of coordination. Trying to navigate the uneven height of stairs and added pull of gravity with their short legs and muddled reflexes is potentially dangerous for a puppy. A few slips and tumbles are to be expected with developing dogs, but a long fall down a flight of stairs could cause serious injuries. Using stairs too early can introduce or worsen a pre-existing susceptibility to joint issues. How to Get Your Puppy to Use the Stairs Once your puppy is old enough to use the stairs, they should be shown how under careful supervision. Start by clearing your stairs and the floor above and below of all clutter. Make sure the stairs have some kind of traction support like carpet or traction tape. Once your preparation is complete, set your puppy at the bottom of the stairs. If your puppy needs some encouragement, try coaxing them up the stairs with small pieces of treats. Be patient and encouraging and be sure to make this a positive training experience so your puppy learns to associate the stairs with good things, not anxiety or getting yelled at. If your dog seems to have trouble standing up, laying down, or running in addition to being hesitant around stairs, he probably has some health problems. Talk to your vet to rule this out before you press your dog to use the stairs. Traumatic Experiences Your dog may not want to use stairs if he has had trouble with them before. If this is the case, he will usually display signs of anxiety like ears pinned back and tail tucked between the legs. Gentle encouragement and lots of positive reinforcements with treats and praise should help your dog overcome his anxiety. To avoid this, familiarize your dog with stairs once they reach 3 months old. If you have an older dog who is trying to navigate stairs for the first time, support, treats, and encouragement should overcome the problem. Measure Measure the height of the platform your puppy is trying to reach. This is the height of your tallest stair. The rest of the stairs should then descend by around 6 inches. So, if the height of your tallest stair needs to be 24 inches, you will end up with 4 stairs at 6 inches, 12 inches, 18 inches, and 24 inches. The tops of the steps and the step faces would then be 1x6x14 inches. Step 2. Cut Cut 2 planks at each of the different lengths you will need. This will give you your side pieces, the tops of your steps, and your step faces. Step 3. Assemble Attach the steps and step faces to the long supports and the long supports to each other using wood glue and strong nails. Step 4. Sand Use fine grit sandpaper to sand off any rough edges. You should also add some carpet pieces or traction tape. FAQ 1. Are Stairs Bad for Large Dogs? Not necessarily. Are Stairs Good Exercise for Dogs? Stairs are excellent exercise for dogs. Are Stairs Bad for Older Dogs? Stairs can be bad for older dogs who are dealing with arthritis or other joint problems. If your dog is older and struggles with stairs, consider getting a ramp. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Should a GSD puppy be carried up and down stairs - if so until what age? Where I live there are 3 flights of concrete steps up to the entrance - each flight has around 12 steps 36 in total. We are about to buy a gsd puppy and I am worried about his hips and wondering at what age he should be allowed to walk up or down the stairs by himself when we go out for walks etc. Also are there any potential problems that I should be aware of with regards to carrying him? Total German Shepherd: As far as steps go, an older GSD puppy or adult GSD not a senior one should have no problems getting up and down these once it has mastered them a time or two. That said, a very young puppy might need some help being carried up and down them until it develops enough muscle mass and agility and coordination to clear them. Maybe try building them up to a floor at a time. Then try a few more stairs. Carry young puppies if you need to part of the way but I wouldn't carry it the whole way unless it was very, very young. Once it masters a few stairs, or even one flight of steps well, try adding a few steps on the next trip. Take your time - it's not a race - unless your puppy has to go - and in that case you'll definitely need to get a head start on potty time so you'll have enough time to get all the way down there before the puppy has "to go". Either way, you don't want to have to carry a 90 pound GSD up or down anything if you don't have to - much less 3 flights of stairs - so train your dog how to use the stairs right from the get go. It's not impossible to work past having 3 flights of stairs to contend with, but it will take some planning and a built in amount of leeway time. Just think if you had to go down 3 flights of stairs every time you had to go to the bathroom - it could be a drag but you'd get used to it eventually. German shepherds are athletic dogs and the steps shouldn't be a big deal for a healthy dog but it might be an issue for a sick or elderly dog - something to keep in mind. And teaching any dog how to use steps is a great idea for every dog because not all know how to do it. So go for it! Stairs shouldn't be an issue. But taking some extra precautions never hurts, either. Adult German Shepherds range from 50 up to 90 pounds, on average. There can be many variations to this, either way. As an example, my female German Shepherd is very tall, long, and weighs 88lbs! Their long legs and strong muscles will make it easier to ascend or descend, but they are also carrying a large body with them. Their size can sometimes make stairs a bit of an awkward task. Always make sure that any stairs they use are clear of obstacles such as a leftover bone! Sharp turns or unexpected challenges can be dangerous for any dog on stairs, but especially larger breeds. Large dogs can easily strain or sprain something if they are climbing up or downstairs and need to make a sudden adjustment due to an obstacle. When German Shepherds are puppies, introduce them to stairs slowly, and not before they are at least three months old. You always want to ensure they are comfortable and able to manage the stairs before allowing them to try on their own. Using praise and positive affirmations as they begin to master the mountain of stairs ahead of them. Luckily, German Shepherds are exceptionally intelligent and typically learn new tasks quickly. If you only have a few stairs in your home and they do not need to climb them every day in their normal life, it is smart to wait even longer than three months if you can. If there is no pressing need for them to learn how to use stairs, put it off for a bit and allow their muscles and bones to develop more before allowing the extra stress on their joints. Limping The most common sign that confirms a stair-related or environment-related injury is limping. Your GSD can start to favor one leg over the other. As you gently touch the leg, you can spot the exact area of injury when your dog pulls back the leg or makes a screeching noise. Decreased Mobility After experiencing a stair-based injury, another common sign is to witness refusal and lethargy in your German Shepherd to move around or climb up the staircase. A prolonged decrease in mobility can result in muscle stiffness and serious injuries that can be detrimental to their physical and mental health. Vocalizing Frequently As you take your dog for a walk, you may experience frequent vocalization and delay in walking. This is another sign to confirm a stair-related injury. Hip or Elbow Dysplasia and Stair Use Any breed of dog prone to hip or elbow dysplasia will need to be more careful when it comes to stair use. So, what is hip dysplasia? However, from birth to 8-weeks old is a crucial time for proper growth and development of hips in dogs, so the type of exercise GSD pups have is very important during this time. According to The Institute of Canine Biology, puppies that regularly use stairs when they are younger than three months old pose a higher risk for hip dysplasia later in life. This is important since German Shepherds are already a breed that is a high risk for the condition. This is why it is so important to wait long enough before training them on the stairs. It can even be beneficial to allow more time than three months, if possible. Giving them time to develop further before having them tackle the stairs will not only help keep them safe, but it will also give you an extra excuse to scoop your cute pup up in your arms and carry him more often! If your German Shepherd has been diagnosed with hip or elbow dysplasia, your veterinarian will be able to tell you specifics regarding how much activity is too much and the types of activity he can handle. It can also help prevent future joint problems that German Shepherds and all large breed dogs are at risk of developing. You can check current pricing on Amazon. You can find my review of the Big Barker here. Using stairs can be painful for a dog with hip or elbow dysplasia. Often, you may be able to see the early signs of either condition because of a new apprehension surrounding climbing stairs. If they seem to manage other tasks but suddenly hesitate or refuse to climb the stairs, treat that as a red flag and call your vet. You can also help to reduce the risk by choosing a reputable breeder in the first instance and ensuring both parents have a low hip score. A reliable and honest breeder will only breed from dogs that score below the breed average. Helping Your German Shepherd with Dysplasia Use the Stairs German Shepherds that are diagnosed with dysplasia will need help getting up and down any stairs. Removing Stairs Altogether If you can completely remove stairs from their life, that will be best. Of course, carrying your dog may be necessary if you have lots of stairs in your home. But this may be easier said than done if your little fur baby weighs 88 pounds! This is where some other options may be handy. Ramps If your German Shepherd only has a few stairs they need to climb for getting in and out of the house, or into a sunken living room, for example, then a ramp may be the best solution. Most ramps can also double as a way for them to get in and out of the car or other high places easier. Dog Lifter If your German Shepherd does not have a severe case, but you still want to give them some help getting up and downstairs, a dog lifter could be a good solution. They offer a comfortable harness that allows you to help your dog take some of the weight off their legs as they tackle stairs or get in or out of the car. Many companies sell these, which are perfect for German Shepherds. Why Stairs Can be Good for Your German Shepherd If your dog is healthy and active with no illness, injury, or condition, then stairs can be a great exercise. My German Shepherd Willow aged 4-months sat on the stairs Letting them run up and down occasionally will help tire them out and get them an excellent quick exercise on a rainy day when you might not be going for your usual long walk with them. No matter what the weather though, German Shepherds still need to go for their walks, even if you do make them a little shorter. Keeping your German Shepherd active and in a healthy weight range will also help fight the possibility of hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, or other mobility issues further down the line. So, ensuring they get enough daily exercise and stick to a healthy diet will help decrease their risk. If they already have either condition, speak with your vet, and make necessary changes around the home to accommodate them. Final Thoughts Here are some key takeaways from the article: Stairs are not bad for German Shepherds as long as they are healthy. Puppies should avoid using stairs until they are at least 3 months old. Stairs can be an ideal form of indoor exercise for healthy German Shepherds. Related Posts You May Like:. Generally, going up and down stairs is not bad for German Shepherd puppies. It can be good for them as it helps build muscle and strengthen their bones. However, as I mentioned above, if your puppy is under three months old, you may want to limit their exposure to stairs. Puppies under three months old are more susceptible to developing hip dysplasia at this age. On the other hand, puppies older than three months old can start using stairs more frequently. But it would be best if you always supervised them to ensure they are not overdoing it. It would help if you started introducing your puppies to stairs in a gradual and controlled manner. For example, you can start by letting them walk up and down a few steps before increasing the number of stairs as they get bigger and stronger. Be sure there are no obstacles on the stairs that could trip your puppy up, and never force it to use the stairs if it seems scared or hesitant. You can also use a baby gate to limit its access to the stairs if you are worried about overdoing it. But as you may already know, GSDs are brilliant dogs. So with some training and positive reinforcement, they will quickly learn how to use the stairs safely and effectively. German shepherd puppies are active and want to explore their environment from a young age. So, they will likely try to climb the stairs as soon as possible. However, waiting until your puppy is at least three months old is essential before letting them use stairs regularly. As mentioned above, puppies under three months old are more susceptible to developing hip and elbow dysplasia. Suppose you have a German Shepherd puppy that is under three months old. In that case, you can carry it up and down the stairs occasionally. Still, it is crucial to supervise closely and limit its exposure to stairs as much as possible. When your puppy reaches three months old, it can start using stairs more frequently. But it is still important to gradually introduce the stairs to the puppy and supervise when using them. As your puppy ages, it will become more confident and can use stairs without any problems. Because GSDs are big dogs whose bones and joints are under a lot of strain when they use stairs, they risk injuring themselves if they overdo it. Note: If you are wondering why does your German shepherd puts its paw on you constantly? Then check out this related post. Lack of exposure If your GSD has never been exposed to stairs before, it is only natural that it would be afraid of them. If, for instance, you previously lived in a house with no stairs and moved to a new home with stairs, you may see your GSD hesitant to use them at first. In such a case, the best thing you can do is to introduce your dog to stairs gradually and give plenty of time to get used to them. With patience and training, they will eventually overcome their fear of stairs. Bad Experiences Another reason your German Shepherd may be afraid of stairs is if it has had a bad experience. For example, if your dog fell down the stairs and got hurt while using them, it is only natural that it would be scared of them. In such cases, you will need to help your dog overcome its fear by slowly introducing the stairs and helping it build confidence. Some dogs are scared of being high up off the ground, which can make them hesitant to use stairs. If your dog fears heights, you will need to help overcome this fear gradually. You can do this by starting with short flights of stairs and working your way up to taller ones. With time and patience, your dog will eventually overcome its fear of heights and be able to use stairs without any problems. It Is A Learned Behavior Perhaps you have discouraged your dog from using stairs since it was a puppy? If so, your GSD may have learned that using stairs is not allowed and, as a result, be afraid of them. If that is the case, you can retrain your GSD, so it is ok to use them again. Note: Check out this related post on: why does my german shepherd lay down to eat all the time. If you are having this issue this post might help you. For example, if your dog has arthritis, it may be hesitant to use stairs because it is painful. You will need to take your dog to the vet to rule out any health issues and to get advice on how to help them overcome their fear of stairs. If your German Shepherd falls down the stairs, it is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. You must take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if it is injured. Practice First Aid response to ensure your dog is comfortable and warm while you wait for help. If it is not injured, you can try to help overcome its fear of stairs by slowly introducing them again and helping to build up its confidence. With time and patience, your dog will eventually be able to use stairs without any problems. There are a few things you can do to make sure your German Shepherd is healthy and safe when using stairs: Make sure your GSD has no injuries before letting it use stairs. If it has any underlying health issues, check them out by a vet first. Introduce your dog to stairs gradually and give plenty of time to get used to them. Start with short flights of stairs and work your way up to taller ones. Please make sure Your GSD is not overweight and feels comfortable before letting it use stairs. Do not allow puppies younger than three months old to use stairs. Final Thoughts- Are Stairs Bad For German Shepherds So, even though going up and down stairs are not generally bad for German Shepherds, you should always take care to supervise your dog when they are using them. Suppose they are introduced to them gradually and given plenty of time to get used to them. It will help to prevent any accidents from happening. However, puppies younger than three months old should not use stairs, and dogs with underlying health issues should be checked out by a vet first. I hope this article has helped you to understand a bit more about German Shepherds and stairs. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to comment below. Justin Author Justin is a protection dog enthusiast. He has years of experience teaching and training dogs. Read More. German Shepherds are known for their activeness especially when they are in the puppy phase they want to explore their new world. Yes, stairs can be bad for your German Shepherd puppy as they can face many health-related issues in the future. They can face joint issues like hip dysplasia if they use stairs regularly as vets also ask not to let your German Shepherd pup use stairs at the puppy phase of their life. There is always the risk of getting injured when your German Shepherds climb stairs. They may get leg injuries or may hurt their paw if there is unbalance while climbing the stairs. There is also a high chance to get hip dysplasia where their joints are affected. Regular climbing of the stairs from a very young age is responsible to give birth to such type of issues in them. If there is any mishappening then your German Shepherd dog may fall from top to bottom leading to the severe head or joint injury. So it becomes highly important for your German Shepherd pups to avoid stairs especially when they are very young. All we know is that German Shepherd puppies are very active and they want to play whenever they get time. We all want our puppies to be safe and secure in our house and want them to get a minimum chance to get any type of injury but what about the use of stairs in your house? The use of stairs can be bad for your German Shepherd puppy as they can injure themselves while climbing upstairs. Regular climbing of the stairs can also lead them to get joint issues like hip dysplasia as we discussed above. If there is any mishappening they can also fall from up to down which may also lead to getting a severe head injury. GSD pups are very young at an age so they need special care. So again what will be the age where they can climb the stairs that will not affect them? My German Shepherd puppy always walks in my whole house which let me get a little worried as there are also stairs. I also get a little worried when he tries to climb. This let me get to know when can German Shepherd puppies use stairs. When German Shepherd pups become 3 months older they can start using stairs which can be followed until they become adults. However, you should not allow your German Shepherd pup to use stairs in your absence as they get injured because they are very young. Once your GSD pup master using a few stairs then you can allow them to move further, however, Adult German Shepherds can easily use stairs if they are healthy and do not have any joint issues. So stairs can be used by adult German Shepherds unless they are prone to hip or elbow dysplasia. However, you can limit their climbing of stairs if they face any joint issues or hip dysplasia. You should not allow them to use stairs if they are suffering from any of these issues. If your German Shepherd is healthy then you can try to keep your stairs suitable for their walking as it will also reduce the chance to get injured. You should also consider that your German Shepherd pup cannot use the upstairs unless they become 3 months older. It is always safe to not let your German Shepherd puppy use stairs as they are very young and can get injured during climbing the stairs. However, when they become 3 months older you can allow your German Shepherds to use stairs but the main thing to know is how you can get your German Shepherd puppy to use stairs. It is quite simple to let your German Shepherd Puppy use stairs as there are some simple steps following which you will find it easy and your pup will never be hurt. So guys ensure their safety and follow these steps. Here are the steps which will let you learn to get your German Shepherd puppy to use stairs: Clean your stairs properly by making sure that the stairs have some type of traction support like carpet. After observing all the cleanliness and safety measures you can allow your German Shepherd pup to start from the bottom of the stairs. Provide them treats to encourage them to walk slowly on stairs. Always be patient while making them learn to climb the stairs safely as this will ensure their full security. Never scold them and always use a gentle voice so that they can learn easily and follow your command. Following the above steps will ensure your young puppies walk comfortably on the stairs but consider their age as you should start this process when they become 3 months older. Be sure about all the safety so that they can never be hurt if they fall from the stairs. Final Thoughts: German Shepherd puppies should avoid using stairs unless they become 3 months older. However, adult stairs can be good for adult German Shepherds if they do not have any health issues like hip or elbow dysplasia. If GSD puppy will start using stairs before their age then there will higher chance to get joint issues or may suffer from hip dysplasia in near future. So using stairs can be bad for them. The right age for climbing the upstairs is when they become 3 months older but you should be very careful while their climbing. Take proper care to keep your German Shepherd healthy and always use carpet on your stairs so that no mishappening can happen. Going up and down stairs for your GSD pup will depend on the stairs you are using and of course, the age of your puppy. If your puppy is too small then it will be difficult for them to climb up as there will be a possibility to get hurt and may injure themselves. No stairs are not bad for adult German Shepherds unless they do have any health issues like hip or elbow dysplasia. The health of your German Shepherds comes first if they are limping then you should not let them use stairs. Stairs can be a good exercise for German Shepherds as going up and down will allow their muscles to be more stronger and flexible but you must be sure about their safety as unnecessary climbing may injure them. Once your German Shepherd has passed adulthood then you should let them use stairs especially when they are suffering from hip and elbow dysplasia. They will go through a lot of pain so one should avoid these stairs rather can use a ramp for them. Are stairs good for German Shepherds? Yes, stairs can be good exercise for large dogs like German Shepherds. Stairs provide them with an opportunity to exercise their large muscles and build strength in the legs and joints. It also helps them develop good coordination and agility. Make sure that when you introduce your German Shepherd to the stairs, they are safe, and make sure not to exceed their physical capabilities too quickly. Is climbing stairs bad for puppies? The short answer is no, climbing stairs is generally not bad for puppies as long as they are monitored and proper precautions are taken. Puppies should only be allowed to climb stairs when supervised, and steps should have a non-slip surface, like a rug or carpeting. Which dog breeds should avoid stairs? Small breeds with short legs, such as Dachshunds, should avoid taking the stairs. Other small breeds may also have difficulty navigating steps and will likely benefit from being carried up and down them. Breeds with joint issues or that are prone to knee and hip pain e. Bulldogs, Pugs may need extra support when going up and down the stairs too. The short answer is no, stairs themselves cannot cause hip dysplasia in healthy German Shepherds. However, overexertion of the hips can contribute to or worsen symptoms of hip dysplasia. Some owners may choose to limit their GSDs access to stairs and ramps, as this type of activity can strain the hips more than walking on level ground. Related Posts:.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. Due to their high energy and intelligence, they take lots of time and attention. They are also high maintenance in the grooming and exercise departments. Despite all the time they require, they are worth every minute. Their love and loyalty is unmatched and there is no greater companion than a faithful German shepherd dog by your side. Whether you own one or are planning to get one in the future, there are 17 items that you must have if you own a German shepherd. They are: 1. Good Quality Crate There are many good reasons to teach a dog to use a crate and very few excuses not to. Just a few reasons why crate training is a good idea include, they may be crated at the vet so being familiar with one will help them be calm; they may at some point in their life need to travel in a crate; during an emergency, they may need to be crated for their own safety; a crate is the perfect place to keep your dog when home repair is being done and other strangers are going in and out of the house; when recovering after illness or injury; it is a great training tool, a safe place for an unsupervised puppy. Strong Leash and Collar German shepherds are incredibly strong and very determined. The last thing you need is a collar or leash that will break at the wrong moment. Even better, owning several leashes and collar styles can come in handy. Some tools that can help are educational books, videos, clickers , tugs , treat bag , high value treats , crate, leash , and slip collar. Since German shepherds are so intelligent, there are many things you can teach them so these tools are just the tip of the iceberg. Your plans will depend upon the tools you need so these are just the basics that everyone can use. Chews and toys German shepherds have powerful jaws and they love to chew, especially puppies. There are some companies that make durable rubber dog chews such as Ruff Dawg and Westpaw that are great for German shepherds. Some of these can hold treats to help keep their interest. German shepherds also need lots of exercise and love to play. You can do both at once by playing games of fetch, Frisbee , tug , and more. Nothing will make your German shepherd happier than spending time playing with you and their favorite toy. Good Brush German shepherds shed and shed a lot. To reduce the amount of pet hair in your home, a good deshedding brush is great and a slicker brush will also help remove loose fur. Shampoo and conditioner Despite their shedding, German shepherds are relatively clean dogs unless they get into something that makes them dirty. However, they will need to be bathed so a good Ph balanced moisturizing shampoo and conditioner will help keep them clean and remove dead fur. Since they are also known for their sensitive skin and some have allergies, there are special shampoos that can he kept on hand to reduce itching, seasonal dry skin, or to heal skin irritations. Fenced Yard German shepherds need lots of exercise and a place to safely run and burn off some of their energy. They also have a high prey drive and many love to chase small animals and such so a fenced yard will also help keep them safe should they encounter wildlife or see neighborhood animals. Healthy Food Notorious for their sensitive digestive systems, German shepherds do best on a high-quality diet formulated for large breed dogs and puppies. Storage container for food To help keep food fresh and preserve nutrients, an airtight storage container is perfect. They make them large enough to store an entire bag of food, which is a huge plus. But they are also yummy and fun and like all dogs, shepherds love them. Food and water dishes Depending on the dog, the best food and water dishes are either stainless steel or ceramic. If your dog likes to dig in their water, a heavy bottomed bowl can help reduce spills. If your dog eats too fasts and gulps their food, a slow feeder can help slow them down and make mealtimes more enjoyable. Some bottles have a built-in dish that the water squeezes into so they are super convenient. Our favorite is a bowl with a leak-proof lid for the car that also helps keep the water cool. Dog poop bags Another must for going out with your dog is a supply of dog poop bags. There are containers you can attach to their leash or you can just keep a supply in the car and put one in your pocket. Either way, to avoid embarrassment, they are a great to have on hand. Dog bed Since German shepherds are over 50 pounds when grown, they are considered large dogs. They love a good dog bed that is comfy but also supports their back and joints. Even if they sleep in your bed, their own dog bed is a great idea. Nail clippers Since German shepherds are so active, their nails should be kept trimmed unless they wear them down themselves. Even if you have someone else trim their nails, a good quality nail clipper is good to have on hand in case you need to trim or cut a nail. If you prefer, a nail grinder tool can be used. This is not a complete list but things to consider putting in your kit include the phone number for animal poison control, blood stop powder , bandages, ace bandage, Gas X and Benedryl, Zymox Otic Ear Treatment, etc. Tags and microchip One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to keep their Identification tags and microchip information up-to-date. With no way to reunite them with their family, they are lucky if they are rescued but many dogs are euthanized simply due to overcrowding or they are injured before arriving at the shelter. To protect your dog from becoming a statistic, always keep their ID on them and your contact information current. No one thinks their dog will be the one to get lost but, sadly, it happens all the time. We hope you find this list helpful. As always, please feel free to share with your friends.

But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. Shop All Cat Food Few things are more delightful than a litter of newborn puppies, but the prospect of caring for all of these brand new little lives can be daunting. But don't worry. Check out this guide to newborn puppy care to tell you what need to know to raise a healthy, happy litter. A Clean Environment Newborn puppies will spend their first few weeks in the box or pen in which they were born, so it's important to choose wisely when preparing for their arrival. The space should offer enough room for the mother to lie down and stretch out comfortably without crushing the puppies, and she should be able to come and go freely while keeping the puppies contained. It should also be easy to access so that you can change out the bedding each day. In these early days, Mom will clean up her pups' waste, but if it's a large litter she may need help keeping up. Around the end of the second week or the beginning of the third week, the puppies will open their eyes and become more active. Once they start to toddle about, you can move them to a larger pen with room to play, and bathroom cleanup will require more of your attention. Although the puppies will snuggle up with their mom and each other for warmth, it's best to use a heat lamp during their first month of life. The lamp should be placed high enough above the box to prevent any risk of burning the mother or her pups, and there should also be a cooler corner that the pups can crawl to if they get too warm. For the first five days, the temperature inside the pen should be kept at about 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. From days five through ten, gradually dial back the heat to 80 degrees, and then continue to reduce the heat little by little until it reaches 75 degrees by the end of their fourth week, suggests PetPlace. Nursing and Nutrition During their first few weeks, puppies rely exclusively on their mother for their nutritional needs. Although she may be less active during this time, nursing uses up a lot of the mother's energy and her daily caloric requirements will be higher than normal, says the AKC. To ensure both mother and puppies receive adequate nutrition throughout the nursing stage, the mother should be fed several servings of a quality puppy food throughout the day. Your veterinarian can recommend the type and amount of food to feed your nursing mother. It's important to keep an eye on the puppies' weight during this time. If you notice any of the puppies being underfed, you may need to keep an eye on them when it's time to nurse and make sure the smaller puppies latch onto the fullest nipples for feeding, says The Nest. Puppies who cry or whimper frequently may also be hungry and need more attention during feeding. If the smaller puppies still don't show signs of healthy growth or weight gain, talk to your vet. It might be necessary to take over and bottle-feed them. It's also important to watch the mother for signs of mastitis, says Wag! Signs of mastitis include red and swollen nipples and reluctance to nurse. The mother may even snap at the puppies when they try to eat. If you notice these signs, contact your vet right away. By the fourth or fifth week, the puppies will start getting their teeth and the weaning process will begin as the mother's milk production slows. Once you notice the puppies starting to sample Mom's food, it's time to provide them with their own dish of puppy food. Health Young puppies are susceptible to disease and infection, so you'll need to keep a close eye on them. Newborn puppy care should include regular inspections to watch for signs of infection or poor health. Report anything unusual such as vomiting, diarrhea or a puppy who won't stand or eat to your vet. Little puppies are also especially vulnerable to fleas and other parasites, says The Spruce Pets , so talk to your vet about appropriate parasite control. Although antibodies they receive from nursing will help protect them from illness in the early weeks, these antibodies wear off around six to eight weeks, which is when they will need to receive their first round of vaccinations. Make sure you and all family members thoroughly wash your hands before interacting with these puppies to help reduce the risk of getting them sick from any bacteria that might be lying in wait on your hands. Socialization By the fourth week the puppies are ready to begin socializing with humans and other dogs. Weeks four through twelve are a critical window during which puppies need to learn about the world they'll inhabit so they'll become well-adjusted, happy dogs, says The Spruce Pets. Poorly socialized puppies tend to grow into anxious dogs who may have behavioral problems, so whether you plan to keep the puppies or send them to good homes, it's important to cuddle and play with them, allow them to explore and play and expose them to as many new experiences as possible. Newborn puppy care entails a lot of work, but these first several weeks go by in a flash. If your puppies end up being adopted, you'll be saying goodbye to them in no time, an event that is often bittersweet. Enjoy the pups while you have them, and when it's time to let go, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you gave them the best possible beginning. Contributor Bio Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of furbabies. Neonatal Stage: Birth To Two Weeks Puppies completely depend on their mother dog in the first 14 days, even for elimination. They cannot regulate their body temperature or relieve themselves without stimulation. Provide a haven for the new mother and her litter to bond without disturbance. Change bedding materials regularly. Monitor their health and observe any signs of distress. Be attentive during the neonatal stage. Early interventions in case of illness ensure better outcomes for not just one affected pup but the entire litter. Your little Labrador begins to showcase an array of exciting changes and developments. The lab puppies open their eyes in the second week. It gives them their first glimpse into the new world. It is a crucial stage to establish a foundation for proper care. They share a bond now with their siblings To ensure optimal growth during this period, provide high-quality puppy food. Adhere to recommended feeding schedules for best results. Newborn Labrador dogs explore their surroundings and interact with other dogs, humans, and new environments. The new puppy becomes more curious around 12 weeks old. You can see a lot of vocalizations. Expose them to new experiences like meeting different people and animals and hearing unusual sounds. Doing so builds confidence in your young pup. It reduces the likelihood of developing fears or anxiety later in life. Foster positive socialization by guiding gently through these new situations. Praise and reward good behavior. Socialization should be done before vaccinations and preferably within a specific time window. Newborn lab puppies Adolescence: Three To Six Months Lab pups go through a fast-growing juvenile stage between 3 and 6 months. They will begin to lose their baby teeth and grow their adult set. Lab pups are considered adolescents at six months. Continue training and socializing them during this time. Common challenges during adolescence include chewing, biting, and digging. Maintain regular veterinarian check-ups during this period. Proper care for your newborn lab puppy ensures they grow healthy and strong. From feeding and nutrition to grooming and hygiene, this section covers everything. This nutrient-rich milk contains colostrum. It provides antibodies to protect the pup from infections in its early days. Are you adopting an orphaned puppy? Bottle-feeding the babies is required every two to three hours then. Buy commercial canine milk replacers or create your formula with a veterinarian-approved recipe. Vaccinations And Health Checks Ensure your newborn Lab puppy gets the right vaccinations and health checks. Vaccinations can prevent fatal diseases that Labradors are prone to. They include distemper, rabies, and hepatitis. The puppy vaccination schedule includes a series of shots. They should be given at specific intervals to ensure maximum protection. Health checks are essential for newborn labs. Your vet must examine your puppy for any illness or disease. Grooming And Hygiene Keep your newborn Lab clean and well-groomed. Regular grooming sessions help bond with your pup, besides keeping their coat shiny and healthy. Use dog shampoo specially formulated for puppies for bathing. Human shampoo or soap can irritate their skin. It can strip their coat of natural oils, which keep them soft and shiny. Exercise And Playtime An eight-week-old Lab puppy should have two minute exercise sessions daily. Provide exercises like walks, runs , playing fetch, or tug-of-war games. Use puzzle feeders and chew toys to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Playtime with other puppies is essential for providing socialization opportunities. Adequate exercise prevents behavioral problems like excessive chewing or digging. Exercise promotes better sleep patterns. Your pup can rest well at night after an active day. Establish regular digestion habits and take them outside when they finish eating. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your pup with treats and praise when they go potty outside to reinforce good behavior. Consistency is key: Take your puppy out regularly throughout the day. First thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Watch for signs: Puppies may show signs like sniffing or circling when they need to go potty. Learn their cues to react quickly. Use a crate: Crate training can prevent accidents inside the house. Prevent anxiety or discomfort not leaving your pup inside for too long. Puppies have small bladders. Be patient and consistent. It involves introducing your Labrador to a comfortable crate, a special spot to relax, feel secure and sleep peacefully. Most puppies become comfortable in their crate within 1 to 3 weeks with patience and consistency. During the first few days, open the crate door while allowing them to explore it freely. You can start feeding them inside once they become familiar with the new surroundings. Place toys to encourage them further. Over time, you can close the door for short periods while staying nearby. It will prevent them from feeling abandoned or scared. Once they are in the sitting position, give them the treat and praise them. Stay: Have your puppy sit first. Gradually increase the distance between you and your puppy as they get better at staying. Give them a treat once they arrive, even if it takes some time for them to obey. Positive reinforcement is key. Reward good behavior with treats or praise instead of punishing bad behavior. Keep training sessions short minutes and frequent several times daily. It is a common challenge associated with their teething and biting behavior. Here are some solutions to manage them: Avoid Rough Play: Rough play can encourage your puppy to bite harder. Discouraging this behavior is vital. Provide Chew Toys : Give your lab puppy appropriate chew toys. It alleviates discomfort caused by teething and prevents destructive chewing. Socializing: Socializing your lab puppy early reduce anxiety contributing to destructive chewing behavior. Bonding With newborn lab puppies: Creating A Loving Relationship Bonding with your labrador pup is crucial to enjoying a happy life together. Create opportunities for one-on-one time and positive experiences. Establish a loving relationship through bonding with your Labrador. Spending quality time with your furry friend deepens the bond. Take them on walks, play fetch, and cuddle up together. It improves communication and trust. Understand when they want to play or rest. Notice their likes and dislikes of toys or treats. Carefully examine each room for hazards. Electrical cords, poisonous plants, or small objects that could be swallowed must be removed. Secure fences and gates in outdoor areas where your lab puppy will play. Continuing Education And Training: Advanced Training, Tricks Now you can move on to advanced training techniques and tricks to keep them challenged. Agility Training: Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or enroll your puppy in an agility class. This sport is great for building confidence, coordination, and physical fitness. Retrieval Games: As natural retrievers, Labs love to fetch! You can teach them to retrieve specific items by name or even play hide-and-seek games. Tracking: Labs have a great sense of smell, making them perfect candidates for tracking games! Start by hiding treats around the house or yard. Gradually progress to more challenging scent trails. Tricks: Teaching your Lab new tricks is a fun way to bond with your pet. The vet pictures physical exams to detect potential health problems before they become serious. They advise on vaccinations and preventative measures. Keep their weight in check through balanced meals and exercise. Labs have great appetites. Train them early on what is allowed or not allowed. FAQs on just born newborn lab puppies How big are newborn labradors? A: Newborn Labrador puppies typically weigh around 1 pound and are about inches long. How many puppies do Labs have the first time? A: Labrador retrievers can have 1 to 12 puppies in their first litter, but the average is 6 to 8. How do you take care of a newborn Labrador puppy? A: To care for a newborn Labrador puppy, ensure it stays warm. Feed it every hours, help it eliminate waste, and keep it clean. When can you touch newborn puppies? A: You can touch newborn dogs when necessary. Avoid handling them too much in the first few weeks. They are delicate, and their immune systems are still developing. What to do when your Lab is having puppies? A: Provide a quiet and comfortable space for her to give birth. When can mom dog sleep away from puppies? A: The mom dog can sleep away from the puppies once they are weaned. It is at around weeks of age. How often do newborn Labrador puppies eat? A: Newborn Labrador puppies should be fed every hours or on demand. Follow this until they are about weeks old and can start eating dog food. Can a 4-week-old puppy survive without a mom? A: A 4-week-old puppy can survive without its mom. It must be fed with a milk replacer every few hours, requiring extra care and attention. Will a black Lab only have black puppies? A: Not necessarily. How do newborn puppies find their mom? A: Newborn puppies use their sense of smell to find their mom. Mother Dog produces a unique scent that they recognize and follow. What color puppies will 2 chocolate Labs have? A: Two chocolate Labs can have chocolate , black, or yellow puppies. How much is a chocolate brown Labrador? A: The price of a chocolate brown Labrador varies depending on location, breeder, and pedigree. It can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. What are the most Lab puppies in one litter? A: The largest recorded litter of Labrador retriever puppies is .Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Pet Nutrition Raising orphaned puppies can be very rewarding. It is, however, a serious responsibility that requires some time, money and work on your part if you want to help the little ones grow up healthy and happy. Close observation and prompt attention if any problems develop are especially important. If you have not raised orphans before, you should have a veterinarian examine the pups before you get started. Learn more about puppy development Basic medical care for newborn puppies What are the medical concerns when raising orphaned puppies? A normal rectal temperature for a newborn puppy is 95 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week, and 97 to for the second week. Puppies under the age of about 38 days have a reduced ability to regulate their body temperature and will need a temperature-controlled environment. See the section on warmth below. Weighing the puppies daily to check for weight gain can reassure you that they are doing well. If a puppy is failing to gain weight or losing weight, you should consult with your veterinarian. Because their eyes are very sensitive to light, they should be kept out of direct sunlight until approximately four weeks of age. The ear canals of puppies open between five and eight days. A puppy burns far more body heat per pound of body weight than an adult dog. To stay warm, puppies depend on radiant heat from their mother. In her absence, they need constant temperature control. Heat lamps or hot water bottles can be used to keep the temperature controlled. During the first four or five days of life, puppies should be kept in an environment that is between 85 and 90 degrees. The temperature may gradually be decreased to 80 degrees by the seventh to tenth day, and may be reduced to degrees by the end of the fourth week. Provide necessary warmth or cooling to the puppies gradually. Take care not to overheat the puppies; newborns cannot move away from the heat on their own. Stimulation for elimination. For the first two weeks of life, puppies are stimulated by their mother to encourage urination and defecation. In the absence of their mother, you will have to provide the stimulation. After two weeks, puppies should urinate and defecate on their own. Watch them carefully to make sure that happens. Diarrhea is common in puppies and may be caused by parasites, viruses, bacteria, food changes e. If the diarrhea is mild and the puppy is otherwise alert and vigorous, you can try giving less food more often and monitor the pup closely. This can be done by diluting the formula with extra water, or giving the puppy clean warm water in a bottle or syringe. If the diarrhea is severe, lasts more than three or four feedings, or contains blood or obvious parasites, you should call a veterinarian and also bring a sample of feces. The lack of normal parental care may mean that you receive puppies who are dehydrated. They may also become dehydrated from other causes, such as diarrhea, vomiting or by being chilled. One sign of dehydration is loss of elasticity in the skin. The gums should be moist and shiny; if you touch them, they should not be sticky. Hypoglycemia, an abnormal decrease of sugar in the blood, can also happen to orphaned puppies. The signs to look for are lack of strength, lethargy lack of movement , and muscle twitching sometimes with convulsions. If a puppy shows signs of hypoglycemia, place a few drops of corn syrup under his tongue and on the gums, and call your veterinarian immediately for further assistance. Internal parasites. If a puppy is developing very slowly, has an extremely large bloated belly or has blood in his stool, he may have internal parasites. A stool sample should be taken to your veterinarian for examination. Puppy living space, feeding, disease prevention Living space. If the puppies were being cared for by their mother, she would choose a place that is soft, warm and away from full sunlight. In the absence of their mother, you must provide this type of environment. A box may be large enough for a first home for the family. Put the box in a warm, sheltered space. See the section above on temperature. If the litter is a big one, you may need to buy a child-size plastic pool. As the puppies grow, watch to see whether they can climb out of the box or pool. Once puppies start to move, they can climb well within a surprisingly short period of time. Use clean packing paper newspaper without print or newspaper layered on top of a flat towel for the first week or so. After they are able to lift their heads and move around a bit, you can use a towel, sheet or blanket. Newborns will need food every two to three hours, around the clock. Six or eight meals, equally spaced over 24 hours, are sufficient for most puppies; small or weak puppies may need more feedings. You can give your orphans complete nutrition by buying a commercial puppy milk replacer such as Esbilac , which can be purchased through your veterinarian or a pet supply store. Commercial milk replacers have feeding directions on the label and should be given at the puppy's body temperature about degrees. Once the can is opened or the powder reconstituted, unused formula should be kept refrigerated and discarded after 24 hours. When the puppies are weeks old, you can start feeding them milk replacer at room temperature. The size of the hole in the nipple is crucial. If you turn the bottle upside down and the milk drips freely, the hole is too large. The bottle should require a light squeeze simulating a puppy suckling for milk to drip out. If you need to make the hole bigger, you can heat a needle with a lighter and use it to enlarge the hole. Adopt from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Here are the steps for feeding: Position the puppy on his stomach with his head level, as though he is nursing from mom. For this reason, do not feed the puppy on his back. Open the puppy's mouth gently with one finger and place the tip of the nipple on his tongue. If he won't eat, try stroking him. Tilt the bottle up slightly to prevent the puppy from inhaling too much air. Do not force the puppy to nurse, or allow him to nurse too fast. After each feeding, the puppy should be burped. Hold him against your shoulder and gently pat his back. Tube-feeding may be necessary if a puppy refuses to nurse well with the bottle method. You will need to work with your veterinarian to make certain that you understand the technique and can safely perform tube feeding. If done improperly, it can result in life-threatening aspiration pneumonia from formula accidentally entering the lungs. Disease prevention. Puppies are very vulnerable to disease, so disease prevention is really important. Always wash your hands before touching the puppies. If you work with other animals or visit shelters or dog parks anyplace where you come into contact with other dogs , always change your clothes and shoes before entering the area where the puppies are kept and before handling the puppies. Nail trimming. The puppies will need nail trims often, so if you have not trimmed toenails on dogs, ask someone to show you how to do it safely. Human nail clippers work well on small puppies. You should limit the number of visitors and the number of people who handle the pups until the puppies are a few weeks old. Hand-washing before handling the puppies is always recommended. Limit interaction if the visitors have been in contact with sick animals or have been to a shelter just before visiting. Use caution: Gentle handling and disease control will continue to be concerns for many weeks. Veterinary checkup and weaning Visits to the vet. Ask your veterinarian about diet, deworming and vaccinations. Puppies in a foster or sheltering situation should start receiving vaccinations at weeks of age and every two weeks thereafter until 18 weeks of age. The vet may want to evaluate each puppy and start individual records for their future human families. Weaning puppies to gruel. During the third week, begin offering the puppies a dish of water. Then, introduce the puppies to gruel. Make a gruel by blending a good-quality dry puppy food with commercial milk replacer. Put the gruel warmed up and not too thick in a low pan. As the puppies discover how to lap up the gruel, you can gradually thicken the mixture. Feed gruel four times a day. By week six, most puppies can eat a diet of dry puppy food. Socializing puppies In your role of dog parent, you will have the challenge of safely socializing the pups to other canines and the rest of the world. They have much to learn — things that mom would normally teach them. Invite fully vaccinated friendly dog guests over to visit, and introduce the puppies to dog-friendly cats as well. Be careful to protect the puppies from any harm, keeping in mind that not all other animals like puppies. When children visit, supervision is absolutely necessary. Puppies can scratch and bite; children sometimes get too rough in their handling of them. Both children and puppies can benefit from learning the proper manners required for human-animal relationships to be safe and harmonious. The puppies should also encounter a variety of people, objects, sounds and smells — anything you can think of that is commonplace out in the world. To prevent them from becoming fearful of noises, for instance, you can play thunderstorm sounds, run the vacuum and turn on the TV. Why Trust Treehugger? If you have newborn puppies either in your home or on the way, you're likely "nesting," getting ready for the tiny, squeaking balls of fur. Where will they sleep? How often will they eat? Will they need blankets? How will you know if they're healthy? This article provides you with important care tips, including feeding, waste management, and much more. Why Pets Matters to Treehugger At Treehugger, we are advocates of animal welfare, including our pets and other domestic animals. We hope our readers will adopt rescue pets instead of shopping from breeders or pet stores, and will also consider supporting local animal shelters. Newborn Puppies Dogs are pregnant for about nine weeks, so that's how long puppies have to develop inside their mothers. When they're born, they still have a lot of work to do. In the sense of development, "a newborn puppy is not unlike a premature child," Dr. Puppies are born blind and mostly deaf and without any teeth. But even though they can't see or hear very well, they can make noise. They make mewling, little sounds. Newborn puppies will open their eyes usually between days old. Their eyes are a bluish-gray, hazy color and they can't see very well at first. A puppy's vision will gradually improve, and his eyes will turn their true color between weeks of age. How to Feed a Newborn Puppy A mother dog's milk gives puppies everything they need for the first four weeks of their lives. Although newborn puppies can't walk, they scoot around on their bellies and instinctively find their mother's milk. Puppies usually nurse every couple of hours and sleep the rest of the time. To make sure puppies are getting enough milk, check them every few hours to make sure they are warm and nursing. If any puppies are crying or seem cold, VCA Hospitals recommends putting them on the mother's back teats because they have the most milk. Also check often to make sure they aren't being pushed away by other puppies. You also can weigh newborn puppies every few days to make sure they are gaining weight. Use a kitchen scale when they are tiny. It depends on the breed, but most puppies should double their birth weight in the first week, according to VCA Hospitals. The puppies must be fed every couple of hours. If you've never done it before, work with your veterinarian or a rescue group that specializes in puppies for advice. You'll feed newborn puppies milk replacement formula that is made just for puppies. Prepare the formula as directed on the package and use the guidelines suggesting how much to give the puppy. Generally, it's 1 cc of formula for every ounce of body weight, according to Best Friends Animal Society. Warning Don't feed cow's milk to puppies. It does not have the same nutrients as dog's milk and does not have enough calories, calcium, or phosphorus for growing puppies. Feed the puppy with a bottle or syringe, slowly offering milk while the puppy is on his stomach. Don't feed him on his back or he could get milk in his lungs. Be careful not to feed him quickly, which could cause choking. Burp the puppy at the end of each feeding by putting him on your shoulder and slowly rubbing his back until he releases air. For step-by-step tips, visit Best Friends for newborn puppy feeding and care instructions. If they are with their mother, they will try to stay snuggled up with her and rely on her body heat and each other to stay warm. They can't regulate their own body temperature, so they depend on outside sources for warmth. Have you ever seen a pile of puppies? They like to snuggle for the warmth and comfort. When the mother leaves to go outside or just get a break, it's important that they have another source for heat. You can either keep the room warm or put a heat lamp over the area where the puppies are being kept. VCA suggests that the temperature be around 85 to 90 degrees F .After that, it can be lowered to about 80 degrees F .Newborn puppies need help to go to the bathroom. Their mother does this by licking them, which stimulates them to urinate and defecate. If the puppies are orphaned, you can help them by dipping a washcloth or cotton ball in warm water, then gently massaging their bottoms after feeding. It's very important that you do this because puppies can't do this without help until they are about 3 or 4 weeks old. You no doubt will be wondering when newborn puppies can go outside to the bathroom and play. Puppies need a lot of upbeat interaction with other dogs—especially during the key socialization period when they're between 9 and 14 weeks. But they are also susceptible to illnesses before they are fully vaccinated, which usually isn't until they are around 16 weeks old. Your vet likely will say it's okay for your puppy to be outdoors in your own yard as long as you haven't had a lot of other dogs around. But you'll want to carry your puppy when going for walks or going in and out of the vet's office until he's had all his shots. Frequently Asked Questions Should you touch a newborn puppy? Unless a puppy is orphaned, you should avoid touching it for the first three weeks. Because they can't yet maintain their body temperatures, it's important that they stay near their mother and siblings for heat. Handling them could take them away from their heat source, which can be dangerous. You can generally begin petting and handling them after three weeks. What is a whelping box? A whelping box is a nesting box designed to protect a dam dog mother and her puppies during and after birth. The box protects the puppies from the cold and is meant to help keep them from being smothered or crushed by their mother. Should you leave newborn puppies alone with their mother? You should supervise a mother dog with her newborn puppies to make sure she isn't neglectful or aggressive toward them. You should also keep an eye so that no puppies get accidentally trapped under her, which could suffocate them. How do you know when newborn puppies are cold? It's normal for newborn puppies to huddle close together or pile on top of each other for warmth. If a puppy is crying, it could be a sign that it's too cold. Orphaned puppies, especially, need extra care because they don't have the heat source of their mother or siblings. If the puppies are spread out around the whelping box, they're probably too hot. Author Mary Jo DiLonardo has become an expert at caring for pets after fostering over 30 dogs and puppies, including many special needs puppies. For more than 25 years, she has covered a wide range of topics focused on the environment, animals, science and anything that helps make the world a better place. Training and Socialization Back to Top The birth of puppies is an exciting time. It's beautiful to watch a mother care for her newborns, especially in the early stages of life. A newborn puppy is completely helpless and dependent upon its mother. The first week of a puppy's life is mainly about sleeping and eating so it will grow. Puppies should remain with their mother and littermates until about age eight to 12 weeks. However, it is most crucial to have a mother during the first few weeks of life. A puppy that has been separated from its mother will need human intervention. Raising a newborn puppy takes a lot of time and intensive care. This is not quite the same thing as caring for a young puppy. They cannot see and can hear very little, if at all. Yet they are able to make noise, which sounds like high-pitched squealing. They have no teeth at birth and are unable to walk. Newborn puppies are incapable of urinating or defecating on their own. In addition, a newborn puppy cannot regulate its own body temperature. Most newborn puppies are instinctively able to find their mother's nipples and begin nursing right after they are born, or whelped. Once cleaned up by mom or a helping human hand they will crawl towards the mother's warm belly, find the teats, and begin to suckle. Fun Fact With proper food intake and mothering care, a newborn puppy should double its weight in the first 10 days of its life. That's more than 22 hours a day, but sleep doesn't happen all at once. Pups will nap on and off throughout the day and night, keeping warm with littermates and the mother's body heat. In between naps, they spend the rest of the time eating and being groomed by mom. Newborn puppies eat about every two hours or more. Because newborn puppies cannot see, hear, or walk, they do not have much exploring to do early on. The puppy's world is all about mom, littermates, and the box they all sleep in. Health and Care During the first few weeks of a puppy's life, the mother dog spends the majority of her time providing food and care. The mother keeps her puppies clean and nurses them. She licks the anus and genitals of each puppy to stimulate urination and defecation. During this time, humans can gently hold and pet the puppies for brief periods as long as this does not seem to upset the mother dog. It's more likely for human contact to be welcomed if those humans are part of the mother dog's family. In general, it's best to let mom do her job and stick to just petting the puppies. However, there are situations where the mother is unwilling or unable to care for her pups. Or, mom might be doing a fine job, but one or more puppies are not growing properly. This is when human intervention is the only possible way to save the puppies. If you decide to care for an orphaned puppy, be prepared to spend most of your time with the puppy for the next few weeks. Warning Any time a puppy is not gaining weight well or becomes orphaned, that puppy should be taken to a vet as soon as possible to assess her health. Puppies can get very sick very quickly without proper care. When in doubt about the health of a puppy, do not delay the vet visit! If the puppy was rejected by her mother, it may be due to a health issue detected by the mother. In the meantime, you will need to do your best to provide the care her mother would have. Create a warm environment for the puppy to sleep. A small box with blankets and a heating lamp is ideal. Keep the lamp at a fair distance so the environment does not overheat. A heating pad and blankets can also work, just make sure the heating pad is well-covered to prevent burns. Bottle feed a special puppy formula every hours. You should be able to find puppy milk replacement at a pet food store or through your veterinarian. Do not feed puppies cow's milk, as it does not provide adequate nutrition and it can cause digestive issues. Use a warm cloth or cotton ball to stimulate urination and defecation immediately after each meal. The amounts of urine and feces will be very tiny. A normal stool will be yellowish and soft. Regularly massage the puppy's body and clean the puppy as needed. Massage will mimic the feeling of the mother grooming, something experts believe is an integral part of development. Food and Nutrition In general, a newborn puppy gets all the nutrition it needs from its mother's milk. The first milk made by the mother contains colostrum, a substance that contains additional antibodies to help the puppy fight infection. This can be absorbed by the puppy for the first day or two of life and provides some temporary immunity against whatever illnesses the mother has immunity against. Be aware that commercial puppy formula will not provide colostrum. Bottle-fed puppies that do not get colostrum are especially vulnerable to illness and may not thrive. A veterinarian may be able to administer serum from another dog to the puppy within the first 24 hours of its life to mimic the effects of colostrum. Newborn puppies will not have teeth for several weeks and are unable to digest puppy food. Do not introduce any kind of dog food until the puppies are ready to begin the weaning process, usually around weeks of age, unless it is otherwise recommended by a veterinarian. Training and Socialization A newborn puppy is too young to go through any kind of training, but there may be some things you can do to get her used to people and her environment. If the mother permits it, handle the puppies regularly for a short time. Take care not to keep the pup away from mom for more than a few minutes. You can use the time to cuddle and pet the puppy, acquainting her with the smell and feel of humans and the environment. Here's what you need to know about taking care of your newborn pups after they are born. Approach the Puppies With Caution Although you may want to pet and hold the puppies constantly, it is important not to intervene too much in the first week or two of their lives, as they are very susceptible to disease, and it can be stressful for the mother and puppies. Use caution when approaching the puppies, as some mothers may show aggression to humans or other household pets if they perceive a threat. As the puppies get older and more active, your dog will want more and more time to get away and sleep, exercise, or socialize with members of the household. So give your dog space to get away from the puppies, but make sure that she is often returning to check on them. Provide A Warm Environment Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature until they are 3 to 4 weeks old. Therefore, for the first 4 weeks of their lives, you should provide a warm, clean box or bedding for the mother and puppies to share. To keep the puppies warm, position a heating lamp above it. Ensure there are unheated areas, as the puppies will need to move away from the heat source if they become too warm. Monitor the puppies' temperature. If puppies are too cold, they cannot process milk and it may curdle in their stomach. Do not use heating pads, as the puppies may be cold and stay on the heating pad too much. If it is too hot, it can cause burns. Start Socializing the Puppies If the mother dog allows it, you can get the puppies used to your presence. Socializing them early can help ensure that they fit nicely into a household. Puppies should initially be weighed twice a day for the first week or two, then daily. Puppies should never lose weight or even maintain weight—either of these is cause for supplementation and concern. If you notice that one of your puppies is smaller, not gaining weight, or has less energy than the others, consult your veterinarian. Puppies should not be taken away from their mother and sent to their new homes too quickly, as they learn important social rules and behavior from their mother and siblings. Puppies should not be separated from their mother if they are younger than 8 weeks old, and it may be illegal before this in many states. Waiting until they are 10 weeks old will give the maximum benefit of social interaction with their mother and littermates. Feeding and Weaning Newborn puppies should nurse at least every 2 hours for the first week or two of life. After this, they can stretch the feeding times to hours, as long as they are still gaining weight and doing well. Once the puppies are 3 to 4 weeks old, you can begin the weaning process by giving them access to puppy food. You can mix a high-quality commercial puppy food with water or canned puppy food to make it easier for them to eat. It is important that the food is softened at first. They should still have constant access to the mother, as she will continue to nurse them. Over the next few weeks, they will rely more and more on puppy food rather than nursing. Most dogs will wean their puppies by 5 to 6 weeks of age. Puppies have sharp teeth at this point, so nursing may be painful to the mother dog. Continue to be vigilant and monitor her for signs of mastitis. Contact Your Vet Just After the Puppies Are Born Contact your veterinarian to ask for their recommendation regarding when the puppies should first be examined. They may want to see them right away to evaluate for cleft palates , umbilical hernias , and other health concerns, or they may advise you to wait until they are a bit older. Most veterinarians recommend deworming at regular 2-week intervals starting at 2 weeks old. Lauren Jones graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in , after receiving her bachelor's degree.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful?

They are full Vaccinate with heath certificate very healthy. Ready to go xxx xxx-xxxx Buy Now Beautiful Puppies for adoption. Pug-Pom puppies for adoption, one male one female. Very smart and friendly. Buy Now Pug love. For sale Puppies will be available soon rsvp. Please message for any further info View Detail 6 Chinese pugs Puppies were born march .Looking for a forever home. Very smart and healthy. I'm ready for you to pick me up so that I can brighten up our home! I'm full of life and fun. I can be the best movie walking and cuddle buddy that you will ever come across! Both of my parents are exceptional examples of our breed. I will arrive at you healthy before wiping my paws on our welcome mat. Ready for a lifelong best friend? Well, I'm ready for my forever family! Each will also come with vet record proof of their first dewormings, vaccinations, and microchips. Enquire via email, text, or on our website for more information about this litter. Taking deposits now to reserve puppies! These pug puppies will leave having been vet checked, de-wormed, flea treated and vaccinated. Home bred and well handled since birth, these puppies are very friendly and absolutely delightful.I must say that they reflect the type of top pups I always wanted to have with me. My pug Puppies are bred for health, beauty and temperament. They are 12 weeks old, with their 1st puppy shots, dew claws removed and tails docked. They are ACK reg with health record booklet. Will come to you healthy and spoiled. Poodle puppies in Ventura, CA may span multiple sizes, which range from: Toy Poodles are typically around 6 to 9 pounds. Why buy a puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of puppies in Ventura who need a. We have owned, loved and shared very special memories with Labradors for over 30 years. Kenny has long ears and white paws. What are Ventura County Goldendoodle puppies for sale exactly? A Goldendoodle is a designer dog breed that is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. I am looking for a lovely family that can take good care of them now. Beautiful grandchampion bichon frise 3-week old puppies, 2 females and 1 male available for forever homes from a long-term reputable breeder. Chihuahuas for Sale in Ventura, CA. Boxer For Sale in Ventura County 8. Dad is brindel mom is 6 Chinese pugs. Look at pictures of puppies in Ventura who need a home. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Ventura. Please get back for more info on how they reach you. Find your puppy for sale in Ventura, CA. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. We have hundreds of available puppies and breeds for adoption. Premier Southern California Goldendoodle Breeder. California Chihuahua Rescue. Yorkshire Terrier For Sale. Labrador Retriever For Sale. They are often used as therapy dogs and make great family pets. We help each family select the right puppy for their lifestyle while keeping the individual needs of each puppy in mind as well. The American Boxer Club was established in .This ensures that families can find ethical, humane, and experienced breeders in one place. Dachshund puppies for sale in Ventura, CA from trusted breeders …. Love Our babies receive round the clock care from birth until they join their new family at 8 weeks. Ventura Dogs for Sale and Adoption. Raised in our home with children. Female Boxer Puppies. Boxer puppies for sale in Ventura County CA. Miniature Poodles are typically around 10 to 15 pounds. Calm personality overall, but he loves to play around and stay active! Dogs for Sale in Oxnard, CA. Malteses for Sale in Oxnard, CA. The puppies are silky Yorkies also Tri color that is a rare so that also aids to the price! Puppies where born at 1oz putting them in the teacup category at a 3pound max weight. Puppies for sale in Las Vegas at affordable prices shipped to store for convenient pickup. Puppies for Sale in Ventura California. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Find the Chihuahua puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Chihuahua breeders in Ventura, CA and start the application process today. Oxnard Dogs for Sale and Adoption. The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Ventura Pets for Sale and Adoption. Shih Tzu puppies male and female Available now. Puppies available to go to new homes on November 11th, Contact breeder direct xxx-xxx-xxxx View Detail. Labrador Retriever Breeder in California. Standard Poodles are typically around 40 to 70 pounds. All pups have docked tails, dew clawed, and will have puppy vaccinations, and healthy puppy exam from Vet. Dachshund puppies for sale in Ventura, CA from trusted. Poodle puppies for sale in Ventura, CA from trusted breeders. At Coastland we strive for creating the highest. Start here and find the cutest Goldendoodle puppies Ventura County has to offer today. I have 4 females and 3 males available. These dogs are known for being intelligent, friendly, and having low-shedding coats. Puppies where born at 1oz putting them in the teacup category at a 3pound max weight for adult age. Puppies were born march .Moyen Poodles are typically around 25 to 35 pounds. Home of Livalittle Labradors. Dogs for Sale and Adoption. Rottweiler For Sale in Ventura County .These are beautiful sweet babies looking for their forever homes. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Ventura, CA. We have the smallest, cutest, best looking, high quality puppies worldwide. Currently have 2 female fawn English mastiff puppies mom and dad are pure breed. Puppies for Sale in Las Vegas. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. The puppies at Rainbow Sugarbabies are loved and cared for. All pups have docked tails, dew clawed, and will have puppy. He has been at the shelter since April 11th and is ready for his new home. All of our Labrador Retriever Puppies are born and raised inside our home and never kept in kennels outside. Our Values Pug Knowledge. Our beautiful male and female pug puppies are now ready to meet their new loving family. Pug Puppies For Sale. Gorgeous Pug Puppies For Adoption. Pug Puppies for Sale Near Me. Pugs for Sale in Riverside, CA. Located in Ontario, Tesoro Pugs has been raising top-notch pugs in California. A good natured and family friendly pup, the Pug will win your heart. Brindle Pug Puppies for Sale. Pugs for adoption in the San Diego, California area come with a year health guarantee. Pugs for Sale in Los Angeles. Check out some of the recently sold Pug puppies in California. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Using a mild dog shampoo and a fresh-scented conditioner will make your pup look and feel great. What are the origins of Pugs? Ready to go to their forever homes Pug California pure bred male pug for sale -. Super adorable French bulldog Puppies. A very friendly and loyal breed know to be fun and loving. Micky and Emmy Pug Puppies for sale. Celebrating 26 years of showing quality, genetically health-tested champion pugs with wonderful temperaments. Although they are a petite breed, pugs are also stout little pooches, making them less fragile than other. Kennel trained and family raised with children kijiji. Fun loving and Brought up with small children. Find a puppies near me Category. Greet our Pug puppies available in California, CA. Pug Puppies for Sale in California. We provide the puppies with a loving family so that they are ready for their forever homes. They will be available to go to their new homes March .Photos and contact info on Advertigo website. Pug For Sale in California .They are current on all shots, potty trained, AKC registered, and. The small stature of San Jose CA Pugs for sale means that they're a terrific choice for smaller homes or apartments, and they have quite low exercise requirements. Hailing from China and popularized by European royalty, the modern Pug is a stocky, docile companion who just plain loves people. Mom is a brindle and Dad a silver. Both puppies are AKC registered with their chip, deworm, shots and vaccines all up to date. The small stature of San Jose CA Pugs for sale means that they're a terrific choice for smaller homes or apartments, and they have quite low exercise requirements too. Pug, California » Sacramento Premium. They are all black pugs pure bred and have their first set of shots. The first step is to check out all of our currently available litters, both in your local area and all across the US. Ready for thanksgiving!!! If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Pug Dogs for Adoption. Puggle for sale milanirodriguez Valentine was born around May 22, .Pug For Sale in Orange County .These gorgeous Puppies have been raised in our family home…. Overall, we believe this is a very reputable Pug breeder in California. Browse photos and descriptions of of California Pug puppies of many breeds available right now! Playful sweet and typical adorable Pug. Click to browse available Pug puppies from 5 Star Breeders. Super adorable and loving Pug Puppies Males and Female are available. View Pug for sale in Palm Springs. The Pug is a small breed, and Pugs never really get too tall. Since then, they have produced numerous pugs and show dogs. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. California, Los Angeles, .Pug For Sale in Sacramento County .San Francisco, CA .They are current on all shots, potty trained, AKC registered, and 22 Months. Looking for a Pug for sale California? There are no fixed prices when it comes to Pug puppies for sale in Southern California or Pug puppies Northern California. They are very easy to train and eager 22 Months. Welcome to our Adoption Page! Introducing our beautiful pugs available for adoption. This is a great breed for families with children. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Puggle For Sale in California .In general, fully grown pugs measure up at about inches, and the males tend to be a little taller than the females. Find Pug puppies for saleNear California. For more info email us at melissastep7 gmail. Pug Puppies for sale in California. We treat your pets like the valued family members they are. Puppies Pugs! They grow from a cute little puppy to approximately ten to eleven inches tall and generally can weigh from fourteen to eighteen pounds once they are full grown. Owners are often surprised by the easygoing, easy-to-train nature of Pugs and they're always eager to please. Beautiful Pugs for Sale. Pugs for adoption in the Sacramento, California area come with a year health guarantee. Ready to go to their forever homes Pug. Tesoro Pugs California. Pug puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Pug puppies for sale in California from trusted breeders. Pug puppy for sale in California. Famous Pugs Southern California. Riverside Dogs for Sale and Adoption. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale in California. Pug puppies for sale Los Angeles are pretty small compared to most breeds. Vet check, first set of shots, deworm done today and they are ready for their loving homes. Browse these Pug rescues and shelters below. CA Find Pug puppies for sale Near California Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Browse photos and descriptions of of California Pug puppies of many breeds available right now! AnimalsSale found Pug puppies for sale in California near you, which meet your criteria. When you find a pup that interests you, chat with the breeder to learn more and ask any questions you might have. Let us do the work! We can let you know when your search has new results. Pretty Pugs for Sale. This breed has been a favorite for generations. Mark and Lola Pug Puppy for sale. California Pugs for sale can, therefore, be a great choice for inexperienced or first-time owners. The kennel started breeding pugs in .Pug Puppies for Sale from California Breeders. Our Pug puppies are raised in a family environment and interacted with daily to prepare them for a smooth transition to their new homes. Pug puppies for sale in California with Price. He is 18 weeks old, has all his shots. Pug Breeders in California! Pugs for Sale in Stockton. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. They will be socialized around young kids, ensuring they are the perfect family pet for you! We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. These top quality Frenchies are bread at the highest level to ensure guaranteed maximum health. The cost of any pug depends on various factors like the coat color, eye color, general appearance, breeder experience, and more. She is chipped and has all her shots and paperwor. Find Pug puppies for sale. They are quite friendly, and nothing can stand in the. Also, be sure to check the Pug Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy Pug puppies from the best breeders. Pugs can be pretty lazy, which is not a bad thing when you live in an apartment, condo, or other smaller living space. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in. Looking for a Pug for sale California? There are no fixed prices when it comes to Pug puppies for sale in Southern California or Pug puppies Northern California. We put PuppySpot as the number one pug breeder on our list because we had a great 3. Located in Ontario, Tesoro Pugs has been raising top-notch pugs in California. Showing 1 - 21 of Pug puppy litters. Pugs are the most amazing dogs. Westminster Dog Show Best photos from Day 1 schedule. The breeders take great pride in their breeding line. Ibeza is currently being fostered in Moreno Valley, If you would like to meet her, please fill out an Adoption Application at www. If you want a pet that will definitely be a conversation starter when you have friends or family over, you may want to consider a California tarantula. We are a small family kennel located in the High Desert of Southern California. All of our puppies are bred, raised, and loved indoors to produce happy, healthy pets for those seeking the best family companion! When we got our first dog, we were instantly in love. We rescue and foster pugs, pug mixes and other needy dogs from high kill shelters in Southern California. Caravelle Pugs .Pug Puppies for Sale in NY. Pug puppies with OFA health-tested parents,…. What kind of dog is a Pug? The pug is a toy breed that was first bred in China, later being brought to Europe. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Charlene from Posh Pugs is from California and breeds Pugs of standard and rare colors. Pugs that are pregnant for longer than 67 days need medical attention. The human with whom they share a name may have been the. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Caravelle Pugs can be your best stop if you want Pug puppies in California. She does well with other dogs and we believe she would be fine with older children. Call or text for current availability .Pug Puppies for Sale in California. Pug Nation Rescue of Los Angeles is a registered c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, care, and placement of abandoned, neglected, unwanted, displaced, and abused pugs. Location: Ontario, California. They do not have AKC registration. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. California contact Tesoro for the full address Phone: Email: thepugpalace aol. Lola - Pug short coat Dog For Adoption. This family has bred, raised, trained, and handled their Pugs to the championships and has become well respected in the Pug community. Using a mild dog shampoo and a fresh-scented conditioner will make your pup look and feel great. Pugs love to be loyal and love their owner. Our dogs are not a business but a very special part of our family. One of the safest places to find inexpensive pugs is an animal shelter or rescue group. My champion bred puppies are bred to the highest standards. The best photos of dogs from Westminster on Day 1 of the dog show. We sell our babies to approved homes. This breed has been a favorite for generations. Every year Pug Nation saves and adopts out hundreds of loving Pugs from the streets of Southern California — thanks to the support of individuals like you. High quality, healthy Fawn, Black, Silver and White. Pugs are pregnant for an average of 63 days, according to Pet Pug Dog; however, a normal pug pregnancy can last anywhere from 60 to 65 days. Our Values Pug Knowledge. Hailing from China and popularized by European royalty, the modern Pug is a stocky, docile companion who just plain loves people. My family and I are proud of our pug accomplishments! It's taken more than 2 decades to learn, breed, raise, train, handle our home bred pugs. Each pug has a very different personality. Pugs for adoption in the San Diego, California area come with a year health guarantee. Pug puppies for sale in Stockton, CA from trusted breeders. A good natured and family friendly pup, the Pug will win your heart. These pugs are our personal pets that occasionally have puppies. Japug Breed Information and Pictures. They acclimate to any life-style, and are always quite content. Caravelle Pugs can be your best stop if you want Pug. Their pugs are raised in their home alongside. A very friendly and loyal breed know to be fun and loving. The pug lover and cartoonist at Bah Humpug drew this complete, adorable pub alphabet. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. As preservation breeders, we only include pugs in our breeding program who are healthy, exemplary. This is because we have stringent screening requirements and processes in place to ensure we are only working with the highest rated and most ethical breeders out there, especially when it comes to San Diego Pug puppies for sale. Every puppy we breed is registered with the American Kennel Club paid for by Pickwick Pugs , and microchipped with AKC Reunite, and regularly examined and vaccinated by our amazing board certified veterinarians. Check out some of the recently sold Pug puppies in California. If you're looking for a special kind of Pug for sale California, you're in the right place, and you'll find a great range of options from trusted, vetted breeders here on Uptown. Matthew's Pugs in California. I'm the breeder behind Puggies Pugs located in California. The breeders take care of the pups like their children and love them dearly. Booboox is a light brown black face female pug. I'm the breeder behind Matthew's Pugs located in California. Designer Desire Labradoodles and Puggles Pug-and-Beagle hybrids may be all the rage today, but they'll have a long way to go before they can claim the staying power of the all-time champion designer dog the one that. Our physical home is located in Alabama, USA where we live with a grumble of delightful pugs young and old. Premier Pups is a platform that connects and matches top Pug. Our dogs are not a business. Celebrating 26 years of showing quality, genetically health-tested champion pugs with wonderful temperaments. Pug puppies for sale in Moreno Valley, CA from trusted …. Breed: Pug Location: San Bernardino, CA Pure bred home-raised beautiful female pug puppies, AKC, dewclaws removed, shots, nine weeks old, parents on site, for sale to responsible, loving hom… puggles puppies for sale .We only work with Pug breeders who pass our 47 breeder standards. With each wonderful picture and it's text, you will learn my commitment and love that it takes to breed and raise champion pugs. The American expat husband and wife team that own The Smoking Pug have quickly amassed a. Premier Pups is a platform that connects and matches top Pug breeders with dog lovers. Our puppies are excellent representations of their breed, and we are proud to offer our high-quality puppies to loving homes. Find Pug dogs and puppies from California breeders. Phyllis Henderson is the primary breeder behind the success of this kennel. Daug Breed Information and Pictures. Please call or email for further details. PetPAC: www. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. Also, be sure to check the Pug Dog Breeder listings in our Dog Breeder Directory, which feature upcoming dog litter announcements and current puppies for sale for that dog breeder. Learn care tips about your pug dog, including the pug life span and pug health problems. If you already have too many dogs, you might not want to look at these cute pug pictures, because you're definitely going to want to get one. As close to pug standard is what I aim and strive to achieve. More than 2 decades of careful and dedicated planning have gone into my breeding program. Cheap pugs also can be found in pet stores and through online classified ads, but this can be a risky way to find them. We keep a variety of factors in mind when choosing dogs to breed, including health, temperament, pedigree, and complementary traits, so. Numerous pets are legal in California unless a law or regulation specifically states that a species of animal is illegal to keep as a pet. Their pups are bred to carefully chosen AKC champion-line stud dogs. Frenchie Pug Breed Information and Pictures. But where should you go to find your perfect Pug breeders in California? Great question. Their breeding dogs come from great bloodlines and are cleared of any health defects. Welcome to the virtual home of Pickwick Pugs, dedicated to the pug breed since .My Dogs are members of our family and hunting partners. I'm not sure anymore! Designer Desire Labradoodles and Puggles Pug-and-Beagle hybrids may be all the rage today, but they'll have a long way to go before they can claim the staying power of the all-time champion designer dog the one that never claimed designer designation the Cockapoo. PJ's Precious Pugs is yet another kennel to check out if you're looking for Pug puppies for sale in California. It has lots of great reviews, and many consider it one of the best options for prospective pug owners. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. All of the dogs we save are scheduled to killed due to illness or overcrowding before we save them! They're healthy and happy and ready to meet their forever family! Both parents are purebred Pugs, see pictures. The breeder's goal is to provide you with a healthy Pug that will brighten your life and be a great companion pet. And now you know our Aww-B-Cs! I breed adorable AKC Pugs that have champion lineage throughout their ancestry. My pugs are prespoiled and bred for companionship so please only apply if you have lots of time and love to give. A little about your puppy and what to expect. Pugs are meant for companionship and are to be kept mainly indoors and to be treated as part of your family. They are little clowns that will follow you everywhere. They do love to play outside and go for walks especially. However, they are heat sensitive and are a brachycephalic breed. All pugs inately have stenotic nares so please do your homework if your new to the breed. For my puppies, I look and pray for loving, forever homes. Experienced or mourning families are a big plus in my eyes. Please only those who think they will send me updates after you have your puppy type people apply. Your puppy will come complete with a puppy contract and health guarantee. I also provide an AKC folder, litter certificate, parents lineage, puppy handbook, vaccination records and veterinary health exam. Once a family is placed with a puppy, I will send daily pictures so they can watch their puppy grow. For those of you across the miles, you will have to arrange to pick up your puppy. Please call Margie .Official House of Pugs. The Camarillo Shelter has a animal capacity which can increase to over during declared natural disasters. The Simi Valley Animal Shelter is smaller facility located three miles from Moorpark College and can house up to 40 animals. The Simi Valley Shelter, however smaller, offers many of the same services and opportunities as the Camarillo Shelter, such as the intake of stray and surrendered animals, pet adoptions, pet licensing, the reclaim of lost animals, and volunteer opportunities. VCAS is dedicated to improving the lives of the animals in their care, and to safeguard the community through rabies suppression and the sheltering of stray animals. Mission The mission of VCAS is to improve the lives, health, safety, and well-being of animals under our care and within our community, to be timely and compassionate in our response to customer needs and concerns, to educate and empower the community through outreach and public awareness, and to provide for the health and safety of the people of Ventura County. Vision VCAS will be a catalyst in creating a future where we are a community able to provide for the mental, physical and emotional needs of all animals, and where the human-animal bond is supported through resources and education for pet families. Values Compassion: We treat people and animals with dignity, empathy, and kindness. Integrity: We are committed to the delivery of professional services by being honest, trustworthy, transparent, and respectful. Efficient: We utilize organizational and community resources wisely in the provision and delivery of our services. Innovative: We encourage creative and progressive programming and strive to create an environment dedicated to continuous improvement. Safety: We are dedicated to the enforcement of animal laws and to the health and safety of people and animals in our communities. Inclusive: We are strongly committed to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in our daily service to the community and within our organization. Our Veterinary Hospital is not available to the general public. Our Veterinary Hospital only services animals in our care. We do host vaccination an microchip clinics throughout the year. Please follow us on Facebook to know when these events occur. How much does it cost to adopt a pet? For the most current schedule of adoption fees, please click here. What if I find a stray dog in the middle of the night or very early in the morning? If you can keep the dog safe in your home until we open, please do so and thank you! If you cannot provide temporarily care for the dog, please call and use OPTION 4 to be put through to our after-hours service. What if I find injured wildlife? If you found injured wildlife, please contact the Animal Help Now non-profit organization by clicking here. If this is an animal emergency, please go directly to a hour emergency animal hospital near you. The discount is an incentive to have pets spayed or neutered. View pet licensing fees at www. Can my child volunteer? The minimum age for volunteers is .Volunteers must apply with an adult partner volunteer and must have permission from their legal guardian. Volunteers will train and volunteer with an adult at all times. Please visit www. Socially Conscious Shelter Ventura County Animal Services has joined a growing number of animal welfare organizations in adopting a new sheltering framework. VCAS utilized the no-kill model to help guide us on our initial journey. Through it, we created, and still maintain, positions and programs vital to the movement. We wish to promote a positive culture of mutual respect and support. Socially Conscious Sheltering is a compassionate, transparent and thoughtful model for animal welfare organizations. There are eight 8 tenets of the SCS model: 1. Place every healthy and safe animal. Every single one. Healthy is defined as either having no signs of clinical disease or evidence of disease that a veterinarian determines has a good or excellent prognosis for a comfortable life. Safe means that the animal has not exhibited behavior that is likely to result in severe injury or death to another animal or person. Ensure every unwanted or homeless pet has a safe place to go for shelter and care. It is unacceptable to turn animals away because they are too old, too sick, or too broken. Assess the medical and behavioral needs of homeless animals and ensure these needs are thoughtfully addressed. Animals housed in shelters and rescues must be assessed for disease and injury and must have all medical conditions addressed so the animal does not suffer. These animals must also have their behavioral needs assessed and met, including enrichment sufficient to make them comfortable and to prevent self-destructive, obsessive-compulsive coping behaviors. Align shelter policy with the needs of the community. Does the community allow trap-neuter-return programs? If so, offer them. Will members of your community adopt animals with chronic disease, are they willing to assume the time and expense of managing that disease? If so, with full disclosure, place them in these homes. Socially Conscious Shelters listen to their communities. Alleviate suffering and make appropriate euthanasia decisions. Compassionate euthanasia is a gift. It is not acceptable to let a terminally ill, suffering animal languish in a cage until it dies naturally when compassionate euthanasia can ease that endless pain. It is not acceptable to house a known dangerous animal who cannot be safely placed in the community for years until it goes crazy in a cage. Each euthanasia decision is difficult, and every decision must consider the welfare of the individual animal. Enhance the human-animal bond through safe placements and post adoption support. Integrating a living being into a new home can be difficult. As adoption agencies, Socially Conscious Shelters have a responsibility to support the new family. This can mean post-adoption behavior advice, classes for new pet caregivers, addressing shelter related medical needs and being willing to accept the animal back if the pet and the family are not a good fit. It also means not placing animals into homes that disrupt the human-animal bond by injuring children, other pets and other people. There are many behavior issues that can be addressed through behavior modification and positive experiences. There are other behaviors that are dangerous and that cannot be mitigated. Consider the health, wellness and safety of animals for each community when transferring animals. Moving dogs and cats from communities that do not have homes available for them to communities where people are actively seeking pets saves lives. However, bringing pets into a community is a responsibility. It is a responsibility to the animals already living in that community to not bring in infectious diseases that would make them sick. Foster a culture of transparency, ethical decision making, mutual respect, continual learning and collaboration. Socially Conscious Shelters are committed to full transparency. This can include reporting accurate statistics, sharing policies, and fully and quickly admitting when mistakes are made. Integrity must be the foundation of all decisions. Every shelter can learn something from every other shelter—it is important to be curious and to share innovative solutions to common problems. Only by working together can we ensure the best outcomes for all animals. A: Absolutely! The adoption of the SCS model did not change our day-to-day lifesaving efforts that we have grown and have continued to build upon since .SCS is simply a framework we found that more accurately describes who we are as an inclusive, positive, and compassionate animal welfare organization. We continue to work towards finding the best possible outcomes for all animals which is the fundamental goal of this model. SCS provides a clear message about our commitment to providing quality care to the people and animals of Ventura County. It is critical to note that VCAS will never compromise the health and safety of an animal to maintain live outcome statistics. Statistics do not govern or control our daily activities. Decisions are never made to maintain a high LRR. We are fully transparent about our shelter metrics as they are posted each month online. Q: How was the Socially Conscious Sheltering movement developed and initiated? A: The Socially Conscious Sheltering movement was created because of the intense need for this conversation. In Colorado, four 4 large animal shelters practiced Socially Conscious Sheltering without having articulated it as such. The model was then shared with shelter CEOs from across the United States for their feedback, each shelter with different communities, intake policies and levels of community engagement. The insight was incorporated into the fundamental goals of Socially Conscious Sheltering, and a website, www. Before a marketing strategy could be developed, Socially Conscious Sheltering was adopted by the animal sheltering community and by several municipalities. Social Media.

These duck-flavored chews are formulated with glucosamine HCL, methylsulfonylmethane MSM , turmeric, green-lipped mussels, and organic hemp oil to help promote overall joint health and relieve inflammation due to everyday exercise. Together, they can work to help support a healthy inflammatory response and promote overall health. If you have any concerns about your puppy's heart function or health, talk to your vet for their recommendations. Packed with fish oil, biotin, vitamin C, and vitamin E, these chews bring relief to dry, itchy, sensitive, and flaky skin and help make your dog's coat soft and shiny. Even better? These tasty treats support hip and joint health, immune system function, and cardiovascular activity for overall health. Made with over 25 nutrients, including omega 3s and 6s, this multivitamin tablet supports your puppy's cardiovascular system, nervous system, and immune system as well as cognitive and liver health. This supplement can be given to dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. This daily tablet can help your puppy maintain healthy teeth and bones. It's flavorless, too, so you can give it to your pup by hand or crumble it and mix it in with his food. Made to help prevent urinary issues, this supplement contains ingredients like pumpkin seed powder, rehmannia glutinosa powder, phytoestrogens, wild yam, and soy protein to support your pup's urinary health. Made with a bacterium known as bifidobacterium longum BL , this supplement along with proper separation anxiety training can help keep your pup calm. It can help your dog who has diarrhea or maybe recovering from parvo," Ochoa says. What To Look For It can be difficult to find the best supplements for ourselves, nevertheless for our puppies. However, there are a few ways you can differentiate between what to add to your cart and what to leave on the shelf. Ingredients Because supplements aren't regulated by the U. Food and Drug Administration, pay careful attention to the ingredients in a particular supplement. It is more of a treat that tastes good, and there are not any real supplements in the treats. Efficacy Because supplements aren't regulated, Whittenburg recommends researching any potential option and looking for peer-reviewed published studies that demonstrate their efficacy. If you'd really like to do some digging, she says you can reach out to the manufacturer to see if they follow the Good Manufacturing Practices GMP guidelines and are approved by the U. No one company makes all of those, but your vet will know the best brands in each category. Tweet on Twitter You are not alone if you are wondering whether you should give your dog vitamins. Most notably, the areas of organic supplements, weight loss supplements, and vitamins for older dogs are of great interest to consumers. With vitamins for pregnant dogs to vitamins for dogs with arthritis available these days, there is a formulation for just about any situation your furry friend faces. This can be confusing, as you could easily be led to believe your dog needs to take a fistful of supplements every day to be healthy and happy. Aside from the potential health implications of giving your dog unnecessary supplements, feeding your dog endless vitamins for no good reason is going to leave a huge hole in your hip pocket. What are the best dog vitamins? Dog Vitamins — Are They Necessary? If you have a happy, healthy dog with no preexisting health conditions who is fed a nutritionally complete diet, then there is really no need to give them vitamins and supplements at all. While most dogs will likely fall into this category, there are times that you may need to give your dog some supplementary vitamins, even if they do not seem sick. A good example of this is if you feed your dog a homemade diet. Commercially available dog foods usually include a vitamin mix specific to the type of dog they are marketed to. However, if you make your own dog food it is possible that there will be some deficiencies in their diet. There are plenty of doggie multivitamins available, however a word of caution is needed. Determining what supplement your dog needs if they are on a homemade diet is something that is best done in consultation with your vet. Maybe they need to get through a condition that has either been caused by or has led to a vitamin deficiency. Of course, you would need to have your dog examined by your vet to be sure of the issue. After a proper diagnosis, your vet may advise you to give your dog a vitamin supplement. Vitamin D has an important role in the body, as it aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Dogs obtain Vitamin D through the diet and exposure to sunlight. If your dog suffers from this imbalance, they are at risk of developing problems which include: rickets both in puppies and adult dogs rubber jaw syndrome, a condition generally seen in older dogs where their bones become weak and break easily hypoparathyroidism, a condition that tends to affect smaller dogs which makes them restless, nervous, and unable to control their muscle movements Vitamin C for Stressed Dogs Dr. Bauer also mentions that vitamin C levels can become low when dogs are under stress and may need to be supplemented at these times. Vitamins for Dogs Eyes A study conducted in found that a diet without enough vitamin E led to progressive loss of vision. Again, it is important to note that the dogs that experienced this vision loss were fed on a diet of table scraps and worked as hunting dogs. Dogs that are fed a nutritionally adequate diet are not likely to experience such deficiencies. Interestingly, however, both a deficiency and an excess of vitamin A can cause issues of the skin and hair. Therefore, it is important that you have a deficiency confirmed before you give your dog vitamin A. We will talk more about vitamin toxicity later in this article. Generally, any vitamin A deficiency is the result of an inadequate diet. We have already established that this rare if you feed your dog with commercially available dog food. However, Cocker Spaniels can develop dermatitis even when they are fed a diet with sufficient levels of vitamin A. If your Cocker Spaniel has this condition, their skin will be nasty indeed: scaly, greasy, flaky, and itchy. If vitamin A-responsive dermatitis is the culprit, your pooch may well have to take vitamins for dogs coat to keep the condition at bay. And vitamins are no exception. There are many studies available that outline the dangers and side effects of Vitamin D toxicity. Large doses of Vitamin D are thought to cause permanent damage to the kidneys. Abnormal deposits of calcium in the organs and in the blood were also found in dogs that had been given large doses of this vitamin. You may have read something about the benefits of vitamin A and are looking for dog vitamins for shedding, for instance. Clearly, you cannot assume that vitamin A will do the trick. In fact, it could actually end up causing your pooch more grief. There has also been evidence of neuropathy, or weakness and numbness, in beagles that had been given excessive doses of vitamin B6. The trend among humans is to take supplements to help us through our different life stages. Concerned pet owners may wonder if there is any merit in senior dog vitamins, prenatal vitamins for dogs, or dog vitamins for immune system health. As we have seen through this article, vitamins are really only of any use to your dog if they are suffering with a deficiency. While at certain stages of life, the chances of your dog becoming deficient increase, the only way to be sure they need a supplement is to check with your vet. Needless to say, giving your dog some human vitamins that you have found in the back of your medicine cabinet is not the best idea. In fact, the dosages and combinations of vitamins specially formulated for human consumption could even be dangerous for your dog. Always consult with your vet before you start giving your dog vitamins so you can be sure you are giving them the appropriate dosage. Dog Vitamins — Conclusion To be fair, there are good vitamins for dogs out there. However, the selection of dog vitamins and supplements available is ever expanding. Working out which ones are actually going to be of benefit to your furry friend can be confusing. There are health concerns associated with giving your dog too many vitamins. Finding the right vitamin for your dog, or if they need to be taking one at all, can be hard. Be sure to discuss this with your vet. Have you ever had to give your pooch dog vitamins? What was the outcome? Do you have any experiences you would like to share, or further questions that were not covered in this article? Be sure to mention them in the comments section below. And if you found this article helpful, please share it. It has omega-3 fatty acids, which can help dogs with skin conditions and give them healthier coats. It is good for improved mobility and can ease joint pain. This might be an ideal option if your Lab has skin issues in addition to mobility issues. However, the capsule is more like a hard shell, so it can be difficult to open or puncture, but it might be too large to give to your dog orally. Also, these pills are more geared toward skin conditions and less toward joint issues. Chondroitin Chondroitin helps support the musculoskeletal system, but it quite specifically aids in lubricating and supporting cartilage. Cartilage helps cushion the bones and joints and acts as a shock absorber — it effectively prevents the ends of bones from rubbing together. Chondroitin also blocks the enzymes that break down cartilage and helps the body produce new cartilage. Glucosamine Glucosamine is used to aid in building tendons, cartilage, ligaments, and the fluid found around the joints. It can help increase the fluid and cartilage around the joints and prevent them from breaking down. Both the fluid and cartilage help protect the soft tissues and ends of bones in the joints. It can aid in reducing inflammation and decreasing joint pain and in faster recovery after a significant amount of exercise. It can also help with reducing allergy symptoms and improving skin health. They can also help control arthritis by reducing the pain and swelling of the joints, in addition to benefiting everything from the heart to the brain. Image Credit: Rosa Jay, Shutterstock Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is a substance found in the fluids in the joints, which acts like a cushion and a lubricant. It can help decrease swelling because it has anti-inflammatory properties and aids tissue growth. Size of Dog Always double-check what age and size of dog that a product is formulated for. Many supplements are suitable for dogs of any size , but if your Lab is on the large side, you might need to give them two or more doses a day. This can add up financially. Speak to your vet before you purchase anything, though, as they can help you with this crucial decision. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. Learn more about the health issues affecting this breed, and what you can do to help keep your Lab healthy, in addition to regular veterinary visits. The Use of Supplements: In Support of a Healthier Labrador Supplements are no longer an afterthought but an important element for your Labrador's nutrition and care. Animal Necessity recommends consulting your veterinarian regarding the types of supplements that could benefit your dog's physical health and mental well-being. Some of the benefits supplements may provide for your Labrador include: Helps keep your dog's coat healthy and shiny. Boosts your dog's intake of vital nutrients missing in its diet. Helps boost metabolism to burn more calories, while regulating blood sugar to reduce the urge to overeat. Relief from chronic hip, joint, back, and muscle pain and inflammation. Increase energy levels in support of an active and healthy lifestyle. Regulate and enhance proper immune function. Helps alleviate certain types of cancers, in addition to heart disease, diabetes, and cataracts caused by diabetes. A Short History of the Labrador Retriever Kind hearted, intelligent and extremely loyal, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the U. Labrador Retrievers are known for their keen sense of smell, ability to find downed birds, and speed on land and through the water. We think of Labs as 'Peter Pan' dogs - they never grow up! A happy, exuberant 1 year old Labrador is still happy and super-charged at, say, 6 years of age. The breed's roots go back to the early 's in Newfoundland, to a forerunner called the St. John's Water Dog. These dogs were eager to please and were strong swimmers with short dense water-repellent coats. They retrieved fish that fell off hooks and also retrieved nets and other fishing gear. British aristocracy took note of the breed's retrieving ability and imported them to England for hunting, developing what is now known as the Labrador Retriever. Soon after the British Kennel Club made the breed official in , the breed made its way to the U. Fun Facts about the Labrador Retriever There are three acceptable colors in Labradors: black, yellow, and chocolate. Yellow Labs born with pale skin and pink noses are called "Dudleys" and are not accepted in breed registries. Labradors have webbed toes and an otter-like tail that help make them powerful swimmers. Their coat is thick, short, and dense to repel water, making them very good shedders. There are two recognized lines of Labrador Retrievers - the show line broader head, more solidly-built and the field line more fine-boned, longer legs, and more high-energy. The presence of a hindlimb lameness, especially in a young to middle-aged Labrador, must be considered ACL disease until proven otherwise - so seek immediate veterinary care for your dog if this occurs! Severe, chronic pain and arthritis results if surgery is not done as soon as possible. Even with surgery, these active dogs need joint health support to help keep their knees as healthy as possible. Severely affected dogs develop congestive heart failure CHF. If you think that your Lab has become fat and lazy, you may be right but just in case, have your veterinarian examine your dog to check for a heart murmur. It affects puppies and worsens with age, with 1 year old dogs being severely affected. This condition affects leg mobility and can cause pain and chronic arthritis if not surgically corrected. It is the most common cause of hip pain in dogs. Elbow dysplasia is a malformation of the elbow joint causing lameness and chronic pain. Cancer Labradors are more prone to cancer than many other breeds. Of those dogs, the most common kind of cancer was sarcoma tumors that form in bones and in connective tissue , such as osteosarcoma and fibrosarcoma. Labradors are also at higher risk to develop lymphosarcoma cancer of white blood cells. Affected dogs develop weakness and collapse after just minutes of strenuous exercise, and possibly die. A recessive gene mutation results in malfunction of neurotransmitters in the nervous system; fortunately there is now a DNA test for EIC. Care information for Your Labrador Retriever Caring for your Labrador Retriever is not as challenging as with many other breeds, but even so, there are certain things you can do to make sure he stays happy and healthy so both of your lives are more fulfilling. Exercise Labrador Retrievers love to exercise, which is a good thing because they tend to put on weight. It's your job to see that your dog gets regular exercise with extended walks and active playtime, such as retrieving a ball or chasing a Frisbee. They especially love the water, so if that's an option, it will make life even better for your Labrador. They are very intelligent and take to training well, which helps their overall disposition. However, Labs do have a tendency to exhaust themselves, so it is important for you to monitor their activity. Additionally, Labs with chronic joint disease will easily "overdo" themselves running, jumping, etc, but they likely will pay for this within the next 24 hours by having severe reactive joint pain. Shelter Labrador Retrievers make great house dogs and thrive when they are with people, especially children. There is nothing a Lab likes better, than to be your shadow. Having a large backyard would be ideal, but as long as they are fed properly and exercised daily, weight gain is not a big concern. Labradors are not noisy and usually are not very territorial. They get along with other animals and for the most part, are friendly to strangers. For that reason, Labs do not make good guard dogs, but often will "sound the alarm" at a knock on your door. Labradors crave attention and companionship and can be disruptive if left alone for long periods. Grooming Unlike other breeds, a Labrador Retriever does not require a great deal of grooming. However, they do shed a LOT and so brushing frequently and an occasional bath is in order. However, be careful not to overdo it as frequent baths can damage your Labrador's naturally waterproof coat. His floppy ears can also present problems. Check them regularly and use an ear-cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian to prevent infections. Also, trim the nails every week or two, as needed. These provide instant traction to stop dogs sliding on smooth floors or stairs. Nutrition As with most animals, Labrador Retrievers need a quality, balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support their size, activity level and to help reduce the risk of certain diseases. Foods with essential fatty acids are important for maintaining a Labrador's healthy coat and to help reduce shedding. But as they are a breed that never stops eating, veterinarians recommended that Labs be fed carefully and not be overfed as they can easily put on pounds without an active lifestyle. A diet rich in antioxidants can have long-term benefits, especially as dogs age. Share This Guide: What People Are Saying About Supplements and Their Pets Pet owners just like you are incorporating supplements into their animal's care more than ever before, and with exciting results. Our vet doesn't understand how, but Buddy can see even though he has the big bright green glow from the PRA and the fog from the cataracts. He doesn't get eye infections anymore and there is less brown crud in his eyes. He is walking a little better, putting more pressure on the leg and not limping as much. The results were amazing! Cocoa has regained 50 percent vision in her left eye and she can now catch treats! We were told when her PRA was diagnosed that she would lose her sight completely within a year. It's been two years now and, although she can't see at night, she still sees during the day and you would never know she has a problem with sight. I was told she would be blind within 5 months. I am so thankful she was able to receive this supplement. Thank you so much! This is definitely a plus! Almost two years after his initial diagnosis - there has been no further development of his cataracts. I'm grateful to be among those who can speak personally for its benefits. Probiotics have become a big thing in both human and vet care. When there is disease or inflammation, harmful or pathogenic bacteria can displace the beneficial type, causing further illness. Probiotics are live cultures of beneficial bacteria that can displace most types of harmful bacteria and can facilitate faster response times from the immune system. The active ingredient known as Bifidobacterium longum BL works like most other probiotic cultures, but also has a naturally calming effect. This makes it an effective probiotic for dogs that have gastrointestinal issues as well as behavior issues. The main reason why Calming Care works is because there is a neurological connection between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. Studies in mice show that when gastrointestinal bacteria from anxious mice were transferred to the gastrointestinal tracts of calm mice, the latter group began to demonstrate anxiety. Once the clinical trials were performed for use of B. For best results, use Calming Care every day for at least three to four weeks. From our findings Glandex Soft Chews are one of the best fiber supplements available. Product features: Contains ingredients to help improve stool quality and promote GI health Helps natural anal gland expression by improving stool quality Available in a tasty chewable treat or powder form Anal glands are the small marble-shaped glands within the anus of a dog. They excrete a viscous and smelly fluid that helps make the passing of stools easier. However, when dogs have digestive tract problems or issues with allergies , these glands can become inflamed and more difficult to express. Anal glands can also become impacted and form painful abscesses that require immediate medical attention. Glandex eats more like a treat for your dog. Both of these ingredients absorb water which results in bulkier, healthier stools. Glandex also contains omega 3 fatty acids which can help prevent inflammation. It also contains probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus to promote a healthy digestive tract.