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Welcome to Quail Meadow Labradors! We are not a kennel but a large family that fell in love with Labradors over 20 years ago. At that time all of our children were small so we didn't breed any of our dogs, but about 18 years ago, we decided it would be great to start sharing our love of these beautiful dogs with other families. We are located on 8 acres in central Florida just west of Ocala and besides our dogs, we also have cats, horses, cows, and sheep. We usually have three to five litters of puppies each year. These pups have got to be some of the most socialized puppies in all of Florida! They are raised right in our home along with our children and our pups and kids love it! They are people pets that like to be right where you are! All of our dogs are the English Labradors and they have great temperments with both show and field in their bloodlines along with championship pedigrees. Most families though are just looking for a quality pet with no hip, elbow, or eye problems and that's what we strive for. Our puppies are a part of our family and our goal is to provide good homes for them and a sweet, healthy pet that will be a part of your family for many years. Thanks for visiting our website and we hope to hear from you soon! Please visit us on Facebook and Instagram! Get In Touch. We love all of our fur family of animals as our own. Each one is a precious life who we raised for the joy of contribution as "YOUR" lifetime family member for you and yours. Here at our unique ranch, we breed Top Show Quality English Style Labradors, American Quarter Horses, Arabian Horses and a menagerie of fairytale like small animals in a certified wildlife habitat and preserve, with 47 years of agriculture and breeding experience. Our life and our home is dedicated to these beings and making life long lasting friends with our community. We don't own our animals, Our animals own us! Our dogs are part of our family, No mass production. They get the best quality feed and natural nursing. They are gently held and cared for as infant babies would be. They are loved and socialized with people and other animals. We will provide you with our recommendations from many years experience. Reserve your labrador puppy with select look, color, gender, temperament and perfect match! A Furever Friend Our lab puppies have been adopted as high quality pets, as contribution for other breeding programs, for service and therapy, for agility, hunting and great companionship! They love to cuddle for a good movie snuggled on the couch and play during the day. They care, they have feelings and they know what you require from them. What would it be like to have one of these puppies? We like yogurt!!! Around the clock for the first 8 weeks of their lives, we assure they are properly eating, exercising, give them lots of love, kisses and begin socialization. Introducing them to unusual sounds, activities, animals, toys, obstacles, etc. At 8 weeks, they are ready to be adopted and go home with their forever families! The fun begins! Or do you prefer black lab puppies? We evaluate our english lab puppies which are best for show, breeding, pet, service and therapy. Investing in a healthy breed quality Labrador puppy ensures a long life of optimal health enjoying every moment of your time together. He's our sweet stocky beautiful block head boy and is available at STUD. Proven as an ultimate producer of show english lab puppies. Breeding for the betterment of the breed is our primary focus. Outstanding Pedigree Rain Forest. Since Welcome to Tru-Heart Labradors! Tru-Heart Labradors is an established professional dog breeder situated between Jacksonville and Gainesville, Florida, that proudly produces the finest dual-purpose chocolate, yellow, and black Labrador Retriever puppies currently available in Florida. Our puppies are sold on a limited-registration basis to pet homes only, and we take pride in the fastidious, loving, and stimulating environment in which they are raised. Because we want every Tru-Heart puppy to find the best possible forever home, we ask that you submit an application before we discuss pricing or accept a deposit from you for one of our outstanding puppies. We do not inbreed. How do wild animal populations manage to remain healthy for thousands of generations without DNA testing? They don't lose important genes from the gene pool. In the wild, animals occasionally move from herd to herd, or flock to flock, which helps to restore genetic diversity to the population. If a particular group becomes isolated, and new individuals are prevented from entering the population, the gene pool is effectively closed. Breeders of other domestic animals understand this. Dogs are no different, and we put this truth into practice. By adhering to our scientifically-proven breeding philosophy, we ensure Tru-Heart puppies are born with sound temperaments, aesthetically-pleasing conformation, good bone, and genetic health and vigor. Please watch the following video on this subject from the Embark Canine Health Summit:. Published on Copy link Are you looking for a furry best friend to take home? With their sweet demeanor and energetic personality, chocolate Labradors are perfect companions for any pet parent. Your puppy will go home with AKC registration papers, three generation pedigree, microchip, first puppy shot series, deworming, veterinary health certificate and written and signed guarantees. Erica and Carrie were wonderful to work with and super knowledgeable about their dogs. I highly suggest. You can find their available puppies here. You can find their upcoming litters, here. All of their breeding dogs are free of hip and elbow dysplasia and their eyes are certified through CERF. For more information and to get in touch, you can visit their website here or email jubett bellsouth. Mythic Labradors have been wonderful from the exceptional breeding process to answering questions throughout the puppy phase and to adulthood dietary needs. I love the honest commitment to the breed and the client. Riley is exceptional because of great breeding, training and love. And it all started with great breeding. They are dedicated to breeding for temperament, health and confirmation. Here is their list of available puppies. Before leaving, all puppies will have a veterinarian health certificate, AKC registration, their first shots and will have been wormed four times. All I can say is Buddy was definitely worth the wait. You can find their upcoming litters here. Located around the sunshine state, these breeders can help you find the best pet for you and your family. Published on Copy link Bringing home your first dog is a truly special experience. There is endless excitement that comes with raising a puppy - getting them acclimated to your children, letting them roam their new yard, buying them the perfect leash and chew toys to curb their mischievous appetite. A breeder whose mission is to take the absolute best care of the animals they raise. The breeder is focused on one breed and knows the best way to take care of them, instead of having a slew of dogs that lack the proper care and attention. In all, using a trusted breeder can give you the satisfaction in knowing exactly how your future pet has been treated and raised before bringing them home. GoodDog: Helping You Find The Best Breeder Before we dive into the best breeder options, we want to mention an incredibly helpful resource to find the best breeder in your area. They screen every breeder to ensure they are practicing responsible breeding and their platform was developed with the help of leading veterinarian clinics and academic experts. To give GoodDog a try, visit their website to find a labrador breeder near you. Situated between Jacksonville and Gainesville they breed chocolate, yellow and black Labrador puppies. They engage in Outcrossing - creating new genetic combinations by bringing together genes from unrelated labradors to eliminate undesirable traits caused by recessive genes is the fundamental philosophy of their breeding program. They do not inbreed. They have been breeding English Labradors since and all of their females are the result of their 39 year breeding program. Some other aspects of their breeding philosophy include: Bottle feeding their puppies in addition to their nursing from their mother. Placing their nursery in the center of their house to allow the puppies to adjust to the sounds of everyday life. Temperament tests for each puppy to match them with the perfect family. Complete physical exam by their veterinarian and first of scheduled vaccines. Duke is a perfect fit in our family. He loves our small children. He is medium in size. He is just like his momma Lacey.I highly recommend Penny Lane Labradors! Jennifer Sample: Duke I constantly get comments not just on how handsome he is but his temperament. My husband has had labs his entire life and I have owned one other lab with him for 10 years. Bosun is hands-down the best dog we've ever had. Thank you for breeding such great animals. He is a gem! She is adjusting well! Thank you for taking care of her for 8 weeks :! Charlotte Kountz: Dannie Thank you for our puppy muffin Juno. She is so sweet. She is definitely getting spoiled. She is a good little girl. We just adore her! Deanna Morrey: Delilah Lexi has the most adorable smile and is a little cuddle bug! Rachel Roberts: Lexi We named our little ball of joy Maisie. Thank you for such a wonderful pup! We love her so much!! He loves to swim at the beach and go on walks. Laura Watson: Sully Brady on his 11 wk birthday. He is very good - after the first night he has slept thru all of the nights. He is the perfect puppy!! Loves to get into the refrigerator- never seen anything like it! Took her to the beach first time Yesterday- she absolutely loves all the other dogs and people she meets, and they love her. She sleeps thru the night now in her kennel next to our bed. Thanks for raising such a fine puppy- she has stolen our hearts and filled our lives with joy! She is adjusting fine. She slept free in her own bed in our room till about then went straight back to sleep. Erika Foster: Olive.

Some Final Words As you may already know, it is all about genetics. Even in the animal kingdom the birth of a puppy, what they look like, and their breed is all dictated by genetics. Black human parents in Africa have been known to give birth to albino children. It is not a rare event and the same goes for Labradors. Dark-colored parents can give birth to Yellow or light-colored puppies. However, for white and yellow labs, they may not give birth to black puppies. The reason for this is that they do not have the gene that produces the black color in their offspring. If the gene is there, by some miracle, then yes, they can have black and even brown puppies. But that is the only way for white and yellow labs to have darker-colored pups. You can mix the parents and that would be one way to get the right gene to produce the black color. Did your puppy start out as a white lab, only to turn yellow later? Yes, they can. It all depends on the genes that the two black parents carry. The gene for the black color is B and the gene for the brown color is b. If the genetic code of the parents is BB then they can only have black puppies. If it is Bb or bb, then there is a chance for brown puppies. If one of the parents has the E gene, then it is possible for the parents to produce yellow puppies. Then there is the ee gene. This is the one that is needed for black parents to produce white puppies. The color of the puppy you get will depend on what genes the parents have and there is no real way to guess which ones they have until the puppies are born. This is a very simplified explanation as there are more details involved in this breeding process. What do you know about White Labrador Retrievers? You get two wonderful parents that produce a very unique set of puppies. In reality, the color of the coats will not matter as Labradors are capable of producing puppies with different colors. The color of the puppies you see will depend on the type of genes the parents have. A black dog could have a BB gene or BE gene while the white dog should have an ee gene. Those genes can combine and produce some colorful results. There may be a red or silver lab, a yellow, brown, or black lab in the litter. This has happened before as there have been litters with just about every possible Labrador color in it. As long as they are healthy, all colors of the Labrador will have all the characteristics of the normal black, yellow and brown labs everyone is familiar with seeing. Are White Labradors Good? Click here to learn more. The most common result will be with yellow labs. They on carry the E or e gene and not the B or b gene in most cases. When you mate two yellow labs with the EE or Ee gene, etc. These parents do not carry any genes that would produce darker puppies. The same goes for the brown and black Labradors. If the latter only has the BB gene, they can only produce black puppies. The brown Labrador parent needs to have the b gene to produce more brown puppies but there is a possibility that they will produce black puppies as well if they have the Bb gene. When you start mixing those genes, that is when you start to see litters with a variety of colors including red fox, white, and silver. Some Final Words To get the color of Labrador puppy you want, you need to make sure the parents have the genes to produce that color. Then not everything is certain that your preferred color will show up. When it comes to breeding, it is all biology and genetics. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Among the three colors of Labrador Retrievers, black, yellow, and chocolate, black Lab pups are the most popular in both the U. Because black Lab pups are so popular, many people decide to get one, and head for a pet store or answer a classified ad. One Small Problem One small problem with hunting black and white lab puppies is that there is not much information about them. The store is, after all, selling them as such, and why would they do that if the puppies were not purebred? You scan the book rack at the pet store, and find nothing. You go to a nearby bookstore in the same mall, and look at books on Labrador Retrievers. Black and white Lab puppies in info given by store clerks or breeders are Lab pups of mixed breed. They may look much like a Lab pup, but any puppy with more than a little white spot on the chest is not a purebred Labrador Retriever. Consider the standard for Black Labradors. Black Lab puppies must be black from head to tail. There should be no brindle markings, no streaks or flecks of different colors. The same standard applies to chocolate Labs and yellow Labs. A true Labrador Retriever is never black and white. Just A Pet If you just want a Lab pup as a pet, and do not care about its bloodlines, a little black and white, part Lab may be just what you want. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Lab health and care Labradors can have white marks on their chest, feet, and tail. Although it may prevent your pup from registering as a show dog. Do you have a black Lab with a white chest? Click the links above to jump straight to a section that interests you. Or, keep reading to find out everything about black Labs with white chests! The Labrador breed coat color is the result of gene interaction, and the presence of certain alleles. We will look into the genetics of coat color in more detail a little later. This old breed had a thick black coat. In appearance, it is similar to the modern Lab, and the modern Border Collie breed! This is because it had an abundance of white markings amongst its darker fur, predominantly on its chest, face, and feet. In fact, initially, white markings on black Labs were more common than the other fur colors, chocolate and yellow. Until all Labs were black, but some had white markings. You might be thinking, does this mean I have a mixed breed? Not necessarily! Mixed breed puppies will inherit random characteristics from either parents. But, purebred Labs can have white markings too. Even yellow Labs! White markings on yellow Labs are just a little harder to see. Labradors with these white markings on their fur are often called mismarked Labs. But, because this marking was present in original Labrador ancestors, they are also possible in modern purebred Labs. Is My Lab Healthy? If you have a black Lab with white chest markings, you might wonder if there is something wrong with your puppy. Is it healthy? They will be just as healthy as any other Labrador puppy! We will look in more depth at Labrador health a little later on. The only difference between a mismarked, black and white Lab, and a standard colored one is your ability to show them. So, a black Lab with white chest markings may not be right for you if you only want a dog to show it. But, white markings on a working Lab or family companion are absolutely fine. But, there are actually lots of other markings that are common on Labs! Black and Tan Markings Some Labs have white markings, but others can have black and tan markings! This is pretty rare. But these puppies can have tan points above their eyes and on their ears and muzzle. Some people think this trait is the result of early cross-breeding with Gordon Setters. Brindling Brindling is a distinct pattern where brown fur has flecks of black and red throughout. This mark has a really interesting history! Many people believe that dogs with this mark are descendants of the first dual champion dog, called Banchory Bolo. Even if puppies are born with this mark, it may fade over time. Or become covered in black hairs. But, like the Bolo mark, this can also be covered by fur as your puppy grows up. Mosaic Labrador A Mosaic Lab will have patches of yellow and black. These are perhaps the most unusual markings! Lab puppies will come in one of the three:.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict.

AKC registered, current on vaccinations, and vet checked. About Us Hobby Breeders Our family brought home our first Frenchie "Tess" 10 years ago, adding more love and joy than we could have ever imagined. Since that time, our fascination and love for this breed continued to grow. Before we knew it, we were those crazy dog people. We decided that we wanted to share our love for this amazing breed with others so their home can feel as complete as ours. Our dogs are raised in a healthy, loving environment. They really are a part of our home. While this may be a hobby for us, the care and attention we give to breeding and caring for these cuties is not. Our home is situated on land that has plenty of space for these guys to roam. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Our utmost concern is for the quality and health of our dogs and puppies. Our Frenchies are certified with the American Kennel Club AKC , the only purebred dog registry in the United States that maintains an investigation and inspection effort. As we set out on this journey we were fortunate to have by our side several Frenchie breeders with years of success under their belts in creating champion bloodlines. For our first litter, we were thankful to know Ed and Laura Gauger at Gaugers Little Bullies, and used their stud "Hugo" a very handsome and quality stud to sire our first litter. If we don't have any available puppies I highly suggest you check them out at gaugerslittlebullies. A Furever Friend Frenchies are one of the most lovable, quirky, and fun breeds. They are great with kids and adorable snugglers. If you are looking for a swimming buddy however, Frenchies are not for you. They sink. Their snubbed noses make them extremely cute, but do not leave them well equipped to handle extreme temperatures. So, take care to make sure they are not exposed to extreme heat or cold. Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, and helpful pet advice. At our breeding program, we hold steadfast to our commitment to ethical breeding, ensuring that only healthy representations of the breed find their fur-ever homes. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to the well-being of our furry companions. These rigorous assessments provide us with valuable insights into their genetic makeup and ensure that any potential health issues are identified and addressed. By prioritizing extensive testing, we guarantee that our puppies come from responsible and reputable bloodlines, setting them up for a lifetime of happiness and good health. When you bring home a puppy from KC Belle Frenchies, you're not just welcoming a four-legged friend into your life; you're adding a new member to your family. From day one, our puppies are raised within the comfort of our home and showered with love and attention from our entire family. We firmly believe that this nurturing environment helps shape their personalities, making them the joyful and well-rounded companions that French Bulldogs are known to be. Socialization is a key pillar of our breeding program. Our puppies are exposed to various environments and experiences, ensuring that they become familiar and comfortable with different sounds, smells, and sights. Additionally, they are given ample opportunities to interact with children, fostering a gentle and tolerant nature - a characteristic that makes French Bulldogs excellent family pets. As devoted breeders, we understand the importance of setting the foundation for good behavior. That's why our puppies start their potty training prior to joining their new families. By introducing these fundamentals early on, we aim to ease the transition and help our puppies settle into their new homes seamlessly. At KC Belle Frenchies, our dogs aren't just dogs—they are cherished members of our family. We share an unconditional bond with each of them, and they bring immeasurable joy to our lives. Our breeding program is driven by our genuine love and passion for these incredible creatures. We prioritize the well-being and happiness of our French Bulldogs above all else, ensuring that they receive the care, attention, and affection they deserve. If you are seeking a loving, healthy, and well-socialized French Bulldog puppy to bring into your family, look no further than KC Belle Frenchies.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Less than 1 hour per day, e. Overfeeding and Underfeeding Underfeeding and overfeeding both carry significant health risks for your GSD. As a guide, your German Shepherd should have a defined waistline and you can feel her ribs. Obesity is costly, both in terms of veterinary bills and health. An overweight German Shepherd is at an increased risk of arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. German Shepherds love to exercise and keeping them in good body condition is part of maintaining their diet. But, puppies tire much more quickly and are still developing their joints. How often should I feed my adult German Shepherd? Full-grown German Shepherds do well on a twice-a-day feeding schedule. For most adult German Shepherds, feeding twice per day, around 10 to 12 hours apart is healthy. Regardless of the feeding schedule you choose, avoid allowing your German Shepherd to exercise vigorously after consuming a large meal for at least 1 — 2 hours. This is especially true if your dog eats its food rapidly. Giving your dog time to fully digest her meal will help minimize problems with bloat, intestinal obstruction, or other serious digestive disorders. What food do German Shepherds need? The German Shepherd Dog is an athletic powerhouse! The German Shepherd is an Olympic athlete at heart! They love to exercise, play, run, and generally stay in motion most of the time. Giving them the best food is essential to their natural drive. Due to its convenience and ease of feeding, dry kibble is the most common way to give a German Shepherd her dietary requirements. Common commercial foods are made with chicken, beef, lamb, or fish products and by-products, grains such as corn, wheat, rice, barley, or oats. They contain added vitamins and minerals to ensure that the final diet is balanced. Some owners prefer to mix dry kibble with wet food, make their own homemade food, and only serve a raw diet, or any combination they feel is the right fit for their dog and lifestyle. Any mixture of food you feed your GSD must meet their dietary requirements. Dog food sales in the United States are a huge business. German Shepherd owners must not only stay alert as wise consumers but also monitor the health of their beautiful breed, which is an indicator of the quality of food you feed them. Many German Shepherds can carry on for a long time on a substandard diet, but inadequate nutrition can lead to more than health problems. In fact, poor nutrition could cause your German Shepherd to develop: behavior problems susceptibility to disease and even shorten their lifespan! What are the nutritional requirements for German Shepherds? Nutrition gives your dog the fuel they need to power through her day. The six basic nutrients are water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Good nutrition plays a large part in the appearance and vitality of your dog. The minimum dietary requirement has been established for many nutrients. Keep in mind, these are the minimum requirements, and not what will give your German Shepherd optimal health. Proteins The main nutritional requirement of German Shepherds is protein. Protein has several functions that keep your dog healthy. Proteins provide energy, help build and repair muscles, form new skin, hair, and nail cells, and even keep the immune and musculoskeletal systems strong. Protein requirements vary with age, activity level, temperament, life stage, health status, and the specific protein quality of the diet. Estimating Protein needs Although energy requirements vary widely between dogs, protein needs are fairly constant. Adult dogs generally need at least 1 gram of protein per pound. However, younger and geriatric dogs may need more; young pets for early growth, and old pets because they appear less able to take advantage of dietary protein than their younger counterparts. But these amounts are only the minimums. Remember that you want your dog to thrive, not just subsist on the minimum industry standard. Fats Fat is the second main nutritional requirement for your German Shepherd. Fat provides energy and is necessary for the normal development and function of body cells, nerves, muscles, and tissues. But these minimums will only sustain your German Shepherd, not provide optimum health and sustained growth. Manufacturers further combine fiber, vitamins, and minerals to meet the minimum nutrient profiles of commercial dog food. Most German Shepherd owners use treats daily either in the training or for general fun with their dogs. Treats and Snacks German Shepherds rarely turn down a tasty treat or snack. There are a wide variety of treats available commercially, but these vary in quality. Try to limit treats to reward good behavior or for enrichment exercises to avoid the dreaded German Shepherd boredom. These are good alternatives as they are lower in calories. Examples of safe natural treats to feed include: Sliced cooked or raw carrot Frozen blueberries great for teething puppies and on hot days Slices of apple with the core and seeds removed If you have questions regarding which treats to feed, start with one of these healthy German Shepherd treat options. Feeding Habits Create good feeding habits for your German Shepherd from a young age. Follow these diet tips to keep your athletic dog in top form. Any uneaten food should be removed after about 20 minutes to encourage good eating behaviors. Some German Shepherds may develop fussy eating habits. In many cases, this is down to an owner being too quick to offer something tastier. Stay mindful of this and resist giving in to your dog immediately. Provide access to fresh water at all times. Always leave their water bowl available and check it regularly. This is normal, as German Shepherds are notoriously messy drinkers and tend to splash out more water than they drink sometimes. Plus, bits of food tend to wind up in the water dish, making the water turn cloudy quickly. Last, here are a few tips to make feeding your German Shepherd easier. Choose the best diet for your German Shepherd to match their life stage and activity, as well as dog food that is: Complete — includes all required nutrients. Balanced —all nutrients are present in the appropriate balance. Appetizing— your dog enjoys eating the food in sufficient amounts to keep them in optimum body condition. Safe — is free of weaknesses, excesses, toxins, unnecessary sugars, salts, additives, and dyes. Feeding a German Shepherd requires a balanced combination of nutrition to keep their energy reserves in check while not adding any excess weight which could harm their larger frames and bones. Additional References Coile, D. Henriksson J, et al. Journal of Experimental Biology. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading.

German Shepherds can live in apartments as long as the owner is responsible and provides the dog with some basic essentials. Without physical activity, mental stimulation, crate training, obedience and socialization training, GSDs can become destructive in a small home. However, many German Shepherds have managed to thrive in apartments. That said, there are things to consider before you bring a GSD back to your apartment. Keeping big and energetic dogs in small spaces boils down to management by the owner. Read on to learn the ideal way to keep a GSD in an apartment. The first thing you must consider is the apartment complex. Not every apartment building allows dogs, especially dogs of this size. That being the case, make sure to consult with your landlord or apartment company before you go ahead and bring home a German Shepherd. Often times this ban is city-wide, according to the Breed-Specific Legislation. I personally think this is absurd because not all dogs are the same. Regardless of what I think, this is the reality of apartment complexes and is something you need to consider. Be Honest About Your Dog A common mistake that many owners make is being dishonest with the landlord It will come back to bite you! Some dishonest owners may claim that their German Shepherd is a Labrador Retriever or a Husky to get past a breed-specific ban. In the end, this can create a lot of trouble for you — both legally and financially. Just take a moment and think about it. After all, they need their walks and daily play. Physical Exercise German Shepherds are herding dogs with the mentality of a working dog. As a result, they have a ton of excess energy that needs to be depleted on a daily basis. The problem with apartments is the the lack of a large enclosed backyard. Can they really run around in a square foot home? Of course you could hire dog walkers, but it really takes away from bonding with your dog. Daily activity not only keeps them physically healthy, but also mentally stable. According to the American Kennel Club , these dogs need around 2 hours of exercise a day. Sounds like a lot to you? For example, hiking is a favorite among those with active lifestyles. If your apartment complex has a pool and allows dogs, then swimming is another fantastic opportunity to work out your dog. If not, look for a nearby lake or large pond. I tend to play fetch for 15 minutes before I leave for work. After dinner, he gets a good 30 minute walk. We go out in the back frequently, and we work on mental things inside and out. German Shepherds that love swimming will easily get a great workout in an hour of dog paddling. But do make sure to take it slow. Playing catch with a ball or frisbee is a favorite among dog owners with all types of dogs. German Shepherds will love this and it requires a lot less effort on your part. There are a ton of other great ideas for exercise , you just need to put in the effort and time. Mental Stimulation This is another important factor to consider if you plan to bring a German Shepherd into the apartment. In fact, this may be equally as important as physical activities. German Shepherds are some of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. And, they should be treated as such. Smart dogs need a lot of mental stimulation and German Shepherds are no exception. In addition to a couple hours of physical exercise a day, I would highly suggest daily obedience training or puzzles to stimulate their minds. We suggest a little bit of obedience training every day, as these dogs are fantastic workers. But make sure to bring plenty of dog treats! One of the best ways to provide mental stimulation is with dog puzzles. Here are some of my favorites that we bought for our dogs. Place treats in the mat and let them search for snacks! The best part about puzzles is that it takes a lot less time than physical exercise but is nearly just as important. A little puzzle can go a long with with your German Shepherd. Dog Crate and Training While in the apartment, there are a few things that you absolutely need. Early on in puppyhood, one of the most important and arguably your biggest one-time purchase is a dog crate. But, why do you need a dog crate? So for indoor dogs, you need to housebreak them. Crate training is not cruel for your German Shepherd. That would cause more anxiety and stress than necessary. Midwest Homes iCrate — This is the best dog crate, hands down. It has all the features you need and want, plus more! AmazonBasics Dog Crate — If Amazon puts their name on it, you can bet this is an excellent dog crate. Perfect, if you want to save a little. Note: Always buy a dog crate for the full adult size of your dog breed. Why We Love These Crates Considering limited space in an apartment, you can probably get away with a 42 inch for a female or smaller German Shepherd. We picked these dog crates for a number of reasons. The first is that they all come with a divider panel as an option or standard. Divider panels are necessary because your a German Shepherd grows very quickly. Since most apartments are relatively small, you want to be able to collapse these large crates into a compact carrier for storage or transportation. Proper Obedience Training We already know obedience training is great for mental stimulation, which is absolutely necessary for any big dogs living in small apartments. However, obedience training will be crucial for another reason. German Shepherds are not quiet dogs. As a matter of fact, they will bark if they perceive danger. They are guard dogs, after all. An untrained German Shepherd will most likely bark at these sounds, causing problems with those around you. Plus, my Corgi goes into a barking frenzy. Sound familiar? Remember to always use positive reinforcement with your GSD. If you can, try not to yell at them. If they start barking, you should ignore them. The second they stop, give them high praise and even reward them with a treat. This is positive reinforcement. Socialization Training Living in a dog-friendly apartment means that there will be other dogs around — probably all the time. I think its best to heavily socialize German Shepherds with everyone and everything. GSD owner German Shepherds are large dogs and without proper socialization, they can seriously hurt and injure a smaller dog or child. Socialization can come in many forms. You can also bring them to dog parks on the weekends to play with other dogs. Socializing at an early age makes them less intimidating to others dogs and people. This provides them with more opportunities for exercise, but also helps with socializing. A lack of mental and physical stimulation means that your German Shepherd will take it into their own hands to receive these basic needs. Destructive behavior may occur without these key necessities. This means that your favorite pair of shoes may be torn apart. Or, that your couch gets ripped open after a long exhausting day of work. Apartment living with German Shepherds is no easy task. However, not all German Shepherds are the same. Some will take a little more work, while others fit right in. Are there other tips you have to making apartment life work with a German Shepherd? Leave a tip in the comment section below to let us know! Also, if you have any questions, feel free to ask away. Posts you may like:. Tweet Pin75 Can a German Shepherd live in an apartment? It can be done, but you have to follow up the following tips and tricks. In fact, they really are one of the best apartment dogs if you make sure their basic needs are met. The fact is, size rarely makes a difference in how well a breed can thrive in an apartment. This is especially true of the German Shepherd. Exercise, separation issues, mental stimulation — all of these things have to be addressed. For starters, many apartment complexes have size and weight limits. This is ridiculous, but what can you do? German Shepherds are very distinct breeds. I highly suggest finding a dog-friendly building, rather than just a building that allows dogs. Ideally, you want to live someplace where people are pretty laid back about the somewhat annoying aspects of dog ownership like a barking dog or hair all over the place. In the perfect world, there would be whole buildings dedicated to apartment dog living! Exercise, exercise, exercise. German Shepherds need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Ideally, try to find an apartment within close walking distance of a good dog park so he can enjoy that off leash time. Check with local dog trainers and veterinarians. Some of them host dog social hours in a fenced-in yard. These dogs are smart. Incredibly intelligent. And they hate to be bored. A half hour of obedience training — complete with his favorite treats — should suffice. Like I said, these are incredibly smart dogs. The last thing you want is a bored German Shepherd. Look into crates that collapse when not in use. If you go that route, make sure you grab some super absorbent puppy pads. I suggest giving it a test run before you leave the house for hours. Mind their Manners! One last tip, and this one is important. German Shepherds have great BIG voices. When they spot danger or a rogue squirrel , everyone on your floor will know about it. If it happens constantly, though, even the most patient neighbors will get annoyed pretty fast. When you move into the building, introduce yourself and your dog to those around, above, and below you. When it comes to any dog, be it a German Shepherd or a Toy Poodle, apartment living and single-family home living are pretty much the same. If your apartment living experience includes a German Shepherd, give him plenty of exercise and training, and you should be just fine. Have you ever lived in an apartment with a German Shepherd? How did you make it the best experience possible? Share below! Breed Info If you want to get a German Shepherd but you live in an apartment, you may have wondered can German Shepherds live in apartments? You need to look at your individual dog to determine if the apartment lifestyle will be suited for them. How to Best Live with a German Shepherd in an Apartment Although, it can be possible for a German Shepherd to live in an apartment, there are certain things you will need to do as an owner to make sure your GSD is a good tenant. These things include the following: Give your Dog Lots of Exercise The first thing you need to do to live happily in an apartment with a German Shepherd is to give them plenty of exercise. A German Shepherd puppy is easier to tire out than an adult dog. With a young puppy, you can go on a few short walks each day and have some indoor play sessions and they will be good. However, with teenage and adult German Shepherds they will need a more vigorous exercise regime to tire them out. There are many ways to exercise your German Shepherd , from walking to running, to biking , to playing fetch. Find a few activities that your dog loves that will also tire them out in the process. Then establish a daily exercise routine and be consistent for the best results. Obedience Training The next thing you should do is to make sure your German Shepherd knows at a minimum some basic obedience commands. There are formal obedience classes all around the country for dog training, and since German Shepherds are so smart , you can teach them many of the basic commands at home. Making sure your German Shepherd is well trained is a must for apartment living because you will be around other people and other dogs. In addition, sometimes apartments want to meet the dog before deciding to accept them and you as a tenant. If you dog is bouncing off the walls, jumping on tables, and knocking people over, they will be less likely to let you rent on of their units. However, if you dog can demonstrate that they know how to sit and be polite, they are more likely to approve of your dog living there. Also, training is good for perception. Some people are naturally more fearful of large breed dogs. Thus, a large dog that is buck wild, will make some people nervous. But if you have a large dog that is well mannered, most people will be less likely to complain to the landlord about your dog. Crate training Crate training can be a good tool to use in apartments, especially with a younger GSD, or a GSD that is a little mischievous. The last thing you want is for your dog to destroy something in the apartment when you go out. Usually, as the tenant, you can lose your security deposit if there is damage to the unit you are renting. Crate training can help prevent this from occurring. If you are still in the process of training your dog, your dog may not be to the point where they can just be calm and not get into anything if you leave them home alone. I recommend crate training from a young age because it not only protects the apartment, but it also protects your pup from getting into something dangerous and getting seriously injured while unsupervised. Find different ways to play indoors Another thing you will need to do a little differently in an apartment is playing. This will probably lead to complaints to the landlord. More quiet ways of play are activities that require your dog to use more mental energy than physical energy. Puzzle toys and mental exercises are great ways to keep German Shepherds entertained indoors but not cause a lot of ruckus. Although a German Shepherd needs physical exercise, they also need to have their mind engaged on a regular basis. If you have owned a German Shepherd you know their minds are always going, and they will try and outsmart you if you let them. So mental games and toys are a way of stimulating their mind and tiring them out. Of course, your dog still needs plenty of outdoor exercise. These indoor activities are just a way to keep them occupied, mentally engaged, and quiet while in the apartment. Reasons why German Shepherds may not do the Best in an Apartment Breed Restrictions One of the main reasons why your German Shepherd may not be welcomed to live in an apartment especially in the United States is breed restrictions. Breed restrictions basically ban certain dog breeds from living in certain places. There are even some states and local counties that ban people from owning a particular type of dog at all in their jurisdiction. In America, German Shepherds are usually on the breed restriction list of many apartment complexes. I live in a large metropolitan area, and when I recently helped a friend look at apartments, only two would accept German Shepherds, and we looked at about 8 apartments. Depending on where you live this may not be as much of an issue, but it is definitely something to consider if you are thinking about getting a German Shepherd and you already live in an apartment. Not enough space to play Another potential reason German Shepherds may not do well in apartments is the lack of room to play. Of course, if you rent a very large apartment this can be less of an issue. However, a studio, one-bedroom, or even two-bedroom standard sized apartment can be a little tight for a large active dog. When a toy comes out, they go a little crazy and like to run around and jump. So not having much space can make it harder for them to play indoors. As stated above, this is where mental activities and outdoor exercise come in to keep your German Shepherd active when you are living in an apartment. Those are days when having the ability to play inside can help. Some German Shepherds are louder than others. She will stare out the window and bark at every bird, squirrel, or deer that she can spot in the distance. Knowing your dog is key here. I had to learn this the hard way when I got my German Shepherd. Although no one wants their dog to destroy anything, it is a little different if you live in an apartment. Usually in apartments there are penalties usually extra fees , that you will have to pay if there is any damage done to the unit while you live there. If your dog is a little on the wilder side and is prone to destroying things, you should consider this when deciding whether to live in an apartment. Final Thoughts So, although German Shepherds can live in an apartment, whether your individual German Shepherd should live in an apartment is a determination only you can make. If there are no breed restrictions prohibiting German Shepherds, then you just need to consider their personality, training, and your ability to keep them active enough when making this decision. In this YouTube video, one couple shares their experience of living with, training, and exercising their German Shepherd in a tiny house, which is smaller than most standard apartments today. This video also gives you helpful tips about how to set up your space and your day to make sure your GSD stays happy and healthy. Just as not all German Shepherds are the same, so too not all apartments are the same. Some apartments are very dog-friendly while others are not. Some apartments even offer enclosed dog park areas where dog owners can take their pups for potty time and play. Others offer no such amenities. Some apartments may be conveniently located next to large open spaces or large dog parks, and this can make playtime and exercise so easy and convenient. But other apartments may be located in densely populated areas where green space is hard to find. As you are probably starting to suspect, the key to successfully living with a German Shepherd in a small space like an apartment is making sure your dog gets their activity needs to be met no matter what. As Apartments. Just as some cities and municipalities may ban or restrict keeping certain dog breeds over concerns about breed aggression issues, sometimes apartments may institute their own rules about which dog breeds are permitted on the property. German Shepherds are frequently employed in K-9, military, police, guarding, and protection work. It is worth checking on this in advance to avoid hefty fines and heartbreak. If your apartment management is open to allowing you to add a German Shepherd dog to your family, you may need to pay an extra pet deposit or provide a certification of rental insurance before being allowed to move in. If this applies, there may not be anything you can do. The management may also require extra proof that your GSD has the appropriate temperament and training to fare well in a multi-home building where interactions with other tenants and their pets are inevitable. You may be asked or required to provide any or all of the following before you will be allowed to have a German Shepherd dog breed on the property: Certification of good health. Proof of all current vaccinations and pest control measures. Veterinary reference. References from any past landlords. Bringing along photos of your dog sweetly interacting with people of all ages and other pets may get you extra points during this introductory process. The topic of true canine service animals is a heated one today as the line between service dogs and emotional support dogs becomes increasingly blurred. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA and the Fair Housing Act FHA are both crystal clear that any tenant who has a documented medical need for a service dog must be allowed to live with their dog on the premises, even if that apartment complex does not permit dogs. In order to qualify as a true service animal, your German Shepherd must be trained to do specific work that assists you with a health disability. This means there is the expectation that a service animal will not act out, display aggression, or cause problems for other tenants because of behavioral issues. Even dog breeds that are prohibited from the apartment complex or the local region are permitted when the dog is a legitimate service animal. However, the dog must be fully trained before moving in — no service dogs in training are covered under these laws. According to the American Kennel Club AKC , the German Shepherd dog breed is currently ranked as the second most popular companion canine after the unbeatable Labrador Retriever and ahead of other registered dog breeds. According to Builder Online , two out of every 10 Americans live in an apartment setting. What does this add up to? It is highly likely there are many, many German Shepherds living with their human keepers in apartments all over the country right at this very minute. But what is less well known is how comfortable that arrangement is for all concerned. The typical adult German Shepherd will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulder girdle. That is a whole lot of dog to fit into a one-bedroom apartment, for example. Apartment Therapy states that the typical one-bedroom apartment may range from to 1, square feet depending on the city. In many ways, adding a 50 to a pound dog will be the equivalent of adding a small child in terms of the extra space required. Especially if you plan to crate-train your GSD a smart idea for a variety of reasons. If you add a dog bed, you can count on another four to five feet of floor space needed. One big mistake many apartment dwellers make when choosing a GSD dog is only planning for the size of their new puppy. A German Shepherd puppy at nine weeks old might only weigh 20 to 30 pounds and be just an adorable little fuzzball of cuteness. Expect your puppy to double in weight every three months until at least nine months of age and continue to grow even after that. German Shepherds can take longer to mature because they are large breed dogs. This means you may not actually have a good working idea of just how large your dog is going to be until after the one-year mark. Of course, if you are able to get a larger apartment — even one with two bedrooms — the problem of available floor space will be greatly eased. Rental Agreement Considerations for a German Shepherd in an Apartment Space Another factor to consider before moving forward to live with a German Shepherd in an apartment is the issue of safe play. GSDs began their breed evolution as herding and livestock guarding dogs. When this job description was no longer in high demand, German Shepherds moved into K-9, guarding, and protection work. Today, German Shepherds are found in fields as diverse as tracking and hunting, service and therapy, guide dogs for the blind, nose work and search and rescue as well as many canine athletic disciplines. Schutzhund, obedience and rally, agility, dock diving, you name it, these dogs can do it and will do it happily and tirelessly. You need to think about the terms of your lease agreement and the penalties for structural damage inside your unit. Teething puppies may readily chew on baseboards, doors, or cabinetry built-ins. Adult German Shepherds who get bored, are left home alone or experience separation anxiety may be far more destructive. Can you foot the bill for repairs or damages your dog may cause inside your unit? These are important questions to ask yourself before making the commitment to sharing your apartment with a German Shepherd puppy or adult dog. Whether due to inclement or seasonal weather, your own health, or simply enjoyment of life together, it is also important to ask if your particular apartment unit will allow for safe play with your German Shepherd. Even if you live in a very temperate climate and you have easy access to local dog-friendly parks or trails, there may be days when you want or need to stay indoors. Your dog will still need the same level of daily activity to dwell easily in such a small space. So this may mean you are throwing a ball or playing tug-of-war inside your apartment to tire your dog out. Taking a look at the layout of your apartment and the size of each room will give you a good idea of how hard or easy it might be to play with your German Shepherd safely and easily indoors. This is not unusual, however. Many working dog breeds display similar traits. As Science Alert highlights, German Shepherds are ranked as the third smartest dog breed out of 79 purebred dog breeds. The type of canine smarts being measured in this study relates to how quickly a dog breed can master a new command and how frequently they will obey that command in the future. The German Shepherd can master a new command in five tries or less and will reliably repeat the behavior on cue as often as 95 percent of the time. While this is adorably cute in a GSD puppy and can be endearing to devoted dog owners even in adulthood, it is far less likely to be well-received by your near apartment neighbors. How will your neighbors react when your German Shepherd starts whining or whimpering or crying — or even worse, barking and howling — because you have left the house and your dog is alone, bored, and lonely? Will your neighbors tolerate it when your GSD reminds you about every meal, snack, walk, and training session with a piercing whine? Will your below-neighbors be disturbed? Some neighbors may be very accommodating or may not even be home enough to notice. But other neighbors who are noise-sensitive or home a lot may complain and cause trouble for you in the apartment complex. Before you get a German Shepherd, it can be wise to talk with your near neighbors below, above, and side to side to find out if there are any concerns you should be aware of. This is especially true and important if you really like where you live and want to stay long-term. Because GSDs are so mentally intelligent as well as physically athletic, they have needs on multiple levels. If you want a tired German Shepherd that sleeps soundly at night and is quietly self-contained when you are all inside your apartment together, then you need to be the one who is tiring your dog out! An adult GSD with a fully mature skeletal system will need one to two hours of vigorous exercise, activity, and playtime on a daily basis to be a quiet and calm housemate inside your apartment, according to German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. Earlier than that, you will want to provide 30 to 60 minutes of moderate training, exercise, and interactive playtime per day to achieve the same result. That being said, some German Shepherds may have a higher energy level than others, which may mean your particular dog needs less exertion than this or more every day. Apartment-Friendly German Shepherd Exercise and Activity Ideas Since mental stimulation is just as important as physical exertion to truly tire your dog out each day, the best activity schedule is one that can combine both. Here are some great keeper-generated ideas for how to make sure your dog is getting all of their daily mental and physical exercise needs met even when you live in an apartment together. Break up walks into several smaller sessions daily. Start with a period of training commands. Introduce new tricks to training every week. Visit the local dog park or any dog-friendly park or beach together. Head to the local jogging track or outdoor sports stadium. Go hiking or walking together after work or on weekends. Enroll in canine athletics together Schutzhund, dock diving, and rally are all great. Teach your dog to do a job so you can volunteer together therapy dog, visiting the elderly, reading to kids — all these give your dog plenty of human interaction. Enjoy time at a local pond, river, bayou, or lake — GSDs typically love to swim. Create a scavenger hunt in your home using snuffle mats, treat balls, remote communication, and treat dispensers and other sensory fun. Turn mealtimes into mental mastery sessions with canine puzzle toys that have varying levels of difficulty for your dog to master. Ask your employer about taking your German Shepherd dog to work with you. Get involved in your local chapter of the German Shepherd dog club and organize play dates for your dog with other German Shepherds. Start entering competitions on the show dog circuit or enroll in agility competitions. Work with a professional dog trainer together to help your dog learn new skills. With enough advance preparation, German Shepherd dogs make great apartment dogs — wherever you are is where they want to be. This will make your life easier day in and day out. Before getting a German Shepherd Puppy-proof your house If your German Shepherd is still a puppy less than 18 months old , they are little chew machines and love to investigate the environment with their nose and mouth. You should block off any off-limit areas, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or upstairs. This can be done with a baby gate, but not shutting the door. It should be a designated area, not too hot or too cold, that allows her to play and stretch out. The key is to make the crate a place where your GSD enjoys being in, with comfortable beddings and her favorite toys inside. Never use it as a punishment. Mock your departures Before you actually go back to the office, you could try to mock your departures in the weeks leading up to their return to work. Start leaving the house for five minutes, leave for ten minutes, leave for half an hour, vary it up and down in times. Set up a webcam or video recorder where your GSD is most likely to be or near the exit. How to keep your German Shepherd happy in an apartment? Physical stimulation German Shepherds are herding dogs that require plenty of physical and mental exercises every day. For adult German Shepherds, the American Kennel Club recommends at least two hours of exercise daily. Exercise requirements may also vary from dog to dog. Some do need hours of intensive exercise while others are fine with 2x 30 minutes casual walks around the block and a little fetch. Since GSD are intelligent dogs, chances are that they might get bored easily with repeated activities. Mental Stimulation These dogs are smart, sometimes too smart. Ideally, an adult German Shepherd should not be left alone for more than 4 hours. But they may do just as well if you work 8 hours if well trained. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, so giving them a durable chew toy can sometimes keep them away from your furniture and shoes. Kong Wobbler, see video below Play Soft Music Music can help your dog feel relaxed when left alone in the house. Certain music genres have been proven to be more soothing for your dog than others. Reggae and soft rock are the most relaxing music for dogs, and classical music also helps calm down dogs in stressful environments. Turn on white noise White noise is a type of noise that is produced when sounds of all different frequencies are combined. You can use white noise machines to produce calming effects for your dogs. Some allow you to activate the camera and microphone so you can watch or speak to your pup directly from your cell phone. Others beep when it detects your dog barking. What if apartment living does not work? If things do not work out or your German Shepherd starts to show destructive behavior like chewing up everything at home, it is not the end of the world. You certainly have options. Alternatively, you may have your friends or neighbors come over on different days of the week to bring your dog out for a short walk during the day. This will be good enough to keep your dog engaged. Dog daycare A good daycare will have trained staff, clean toys, lots of playtimes, and a set schedule so you know what your dog will be doing all through the day. Whether you do this daily or just as a treat once a month or so, doggy daycare is a great option for keeping active German Shepherds happy with some companies. Take your dog to work Many large companies are allowing their employees to bring their dogs into work as it helps increase worker happiness. Talk with your employer to see if this is a possibility. Work from home More and more companies are allowing their employees to work from home for certain days a week. If it is possible, working from home can make things easier for you and your dog. You get the idea. At the end of the day, living with a German Shepherd or two might not be as bad as you might have thought, provided that their daily needs are well taken care of. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing.

Sometimes called a Goldenpoo or Goldenoodle, the Miniature Goldendoodle is created by crossing a miniature or toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever. The result is a mild, friendly, family dog that looks like a teddy bear come to life. Their energy level matches the Poodle genes while their gentleness and willingness to please is reflective of the Golden Retriever. They are devoted friends who crave cuddles and will follow you around just to be near you. They are smart dogs with a silly streak. They are loving and loyal and gentle enough to make good playmates for kids. Their intelligence makes them easy to train. This breed has a happy disposition and a friendly, affectionate nature. They crave close contact at all times, and they can develop separation anxiety if you leave them alone too long. They typically get along well with other dogs and other pets. They are eager, excitable, and enthusiastic about outings of all kinds. Their heads are rounded and their ears are floppy and wide-set. Their eyes are large and expressive and noses are typically black. Their muzzles are short to medium with a scissor bite. They have long and fluffy or feathered tails. Mini Goldendoodles have wavy to curly hair and they do not have an undercoat, making them a great choice for people with allergies. While they are considered hypoallergenic, some allergy-sufferers may still experience symptoms. They can be: Black. Cancer Progressive Retinal Atrophy The primary recommendations we make when someone is shopping for Miniature Goldendoodles are fairly standard. Getting your dog the right amount of exercise and keeping them at a healthy weight can prevent many chronic problems and make them overall happier. In addition, taking your dog in for regular checkups, and to stay current on all shots and vaccinations, encourages health as well. One other reason that puppy parents trust Keystone Puppies when looking for Mini Goldendoodles for sale is that we make dog health our top priority! Not only do we only work with responsible breeders that prioritize healthy practices, but we also offer a no-hassle puppy health guarantee. Because they are bred to have the coat qualities of a Poodle, these pups are a popular option for owners looking to adopt a hypoallergenic dog. Their curly coat should be soft to the touch. The signature coat of pretty curls is one of the places where the Poodle ancestry truly shines through. To keep the coat looking its most beautiful, make sure to brush it two to four times per week. Not only is brushing a nice bonding experience for the pup and their person, but it also prevents tangling and matting. Owners can maintain a healthy Goldendoodle coat by bathing them every other month. Meet Mini Goldendoodles for Sale. Or wanting to learn more about your mini Goldendoodle? Look no further than these 21 important facts about mini Goldendoodles. This breed produces the cutest and kindest puppies that are perfect for families and first time dog owners. Their goofy personalities and petite size are what make the mini Goldendoodle the most loved breed right now! Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles is the original creator of the mini Goldendoodle, the information below has been gathered from reputable breeding since .The Mini Goldendoodle The F1 mini Goldendoodle is a mixed breed produced by crossing a miniature Poodle with a Golden Retriever the F1 standard Goldendoodle is the first to be bred and is a cross product of a standard Poodle and Golden Retriever. These miniature Goldendoodles can grow to approximately lbs and most have a much reduced amount of shedding. This cross between mixed breeds creates the fun, family-friendly mini Goldendoodle that we love today. Reputable Breeders Miniature Goldendoodle breeders can be accredited by the Goldendoodle Association of North America indicating that the breeder is dedicated to breeding the healthiest dogs. Breeders that possess this certification have extensively tested their respective dog breeds in various areas of health, such as the hips, elbows, heart, patella, and eyes. These breeders are committed to producing dogs with the best temperament and health possible. To do so, every dog must be tested before being bred to prevent the passing of undesirable traits on to the miniature Goldendoodle. GoldenDoodle Breed Standard Knowing the Goldendoodle Breed Standard before searching for a mini Goldendoodle breeder is essential in ensuring that your new puppy is being bred ethically and correctly. Breeders who follow this standard are reputable and can be found on the GANA website. The standard ensures that every Goldendoodle being bred is healthy and suitable for the next generation of mini Goldendoodles. The standard includes several requirements such as general appearance, size, portion, and substance range, temperament, and overall health measures. Ensuring each dog bred meets these criteria is crucial in breeding healthy mini Goldendoodles that are made for being the perfect companion. Generations Understanding the Goldendoodle generations can assist in your search for your mini Goldendoodle. As mentioned before, the miniature Goldendoodle is a miniature Poodle crossed with a Golden Retriever. Multigen mini Goldendoodles are also possible. This is a cross between two mini Goldendoodle dogs. These multigen Goldendoodles are the most likely to be hypo-allergenic as long as they have two furnishing genes regardless of coat type. Knowing the generation information can be incredibly helpful in understanding how your mini Goldendoodle was bred, what type of parents it may have, and how that information can impact your miniature Goldendoodle. Coat Colors Like other dog breeds, the miniature Goldendoodle comes in many colors. The color and genes of the parents play a large role in the color of the mini Goldendoodle puppy. There is a wide variety of colors, shades, and patterns that a mini Goldendoodle can have. Tuxedos are those that have white chests, white paws, and a white blaze on the face. Mini Goldendoodles can also be Merle, Phantom, or even tri colored. These differences create a sense of uniqueness in every puppy that excite mini Goldendoodle lovers. Coat types Mini Goldendoodles come in many different coat types. Every mini Goldendoodle puppy comes with different genetics including coat type and length. These Goldendoodles can have a straight, curly, or wavy coat depending on their KRT71 gene. These characteristics can be predicted by experienced breeders. Another characteristic of mini goldendoodles that may be most noticeable are their furnishings. Furnishings are the facial hair of the face. Some mini Goldendoodles will have furnishings while others have an open face that consists of shorter facial hair. These particular Goldendoodles will have a considerably higher shedding rate. Reputable breeders are now able to produce litters that have predictable coat traits with careful breeding and DNA research. Mini Goldendoodles are smaller than the typical, standard size Goldendoodles. Mini Goldendoodles range from being over 14 inches tall but under 17 inches at the withers. Weights can fluctuate based on parents and breed but height plays a large, determining factor in the adult weight of the mini Goldendoodle. Hence, the estimated weight of the puppy is an educated guess by the breeder. But, with health and DNA testing and experience, final size should minimally stray from initial calculations. Mini Goldendoodles are known for being incredibly smart family dogs. They are teachable, highly intelligent, and known for following commands. In many testimonials, families will brag on their mini Goldendoodles for being quick learners and intuitive. They are willing to learn new behaviors with positive reinforcement and most of their training can be done at home by diligent owners. Family Dogs Mini Goldendoodles have remarkable temperaments. They are the perfect fit for families with children as they are patient and kind dogs. These puppies fit the gold standard for being loving and happy when around people. Their excitement and sweet energy are unmatched to other dog breeds as they are easy to be around and even easier to love. Because they typically weigh under 36 pounds, the need for an exorbitant amount of space is diminished. While they are not made to be exclusively inside for extended periods of time, their smaller size allows them to be comfortable in smaller spaces and suitable for apartment living. Mini Goldendoodles are often satisfied when snuggled up on the couch with their families and playing with toys inside. Activity Mini Goldendoodles are loved for their energetic and happy demeanors but their true activity levels range from dog to dog. No individual dog is the same. Hence, some Goldendoodles bark while others do not. These behaviors can be altered through training and other at-home factors. Furthermore, hyperactivity is not a mini Goldendoodle specific trait. Hyperactivity can be the outcome of several environmental factors such as lack of exercise, too much time in a crate, or stimulation by active children. Because mini Goldendoodles are generally friendly, sociable, and highly intelligent, they can easily undergo the Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dogs International, Inc. These tests can certify suitable mini Goldendoodles as therapy dogs for family or volunteer needs. Service dog training is more extensive and typically is done by professional trainers. Because of their already sociable and kind nature, mini Goldendoodles are a great fit for these programs. Enhanced Health Mini Goldendoodles are among the dog breeds that are complemented by hybrid vigor. Hybrid vigor is a term coined for describing the enhanced health of a dog that is bred from two different, unrelated breeds. Mini Goldendoodles who are not produced from two related lines exhibit this enhancement as they are bred from two different breeds, the miniature Poodle crossed with the Golden Retriever. Our Goldendoodles are never crossed with related lines within three previous generations so the hybrid vigor is not lost when continuing to produce mini Goldendoodles. Additionally, extensive health testing and certification can ensure that this increased health is not lost. Staying Healthy As with all dog breeds, mini Goldendoodles can also have health issues. However, these health problems are not unique to mini Goldendoodles alone. All dog breeds are subject to things like hip dysplasia or eye conditions if not carefully bred. Reputable breeders always test their mini Goldendoodles before breeding for a plethora of things, including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart, and eye issues. The best way to mitigate these health concerns is by aquiring your puppy through a reputable breeder who tests for such health issues and ensures good practices. These breeders should be certified and focus on the Goldendoodle Breed Standard. Whether you take your Goldendoodle to play with other puppies or walk them regularly, consistent exercise is crucial in tiring them out. These activities are a great way for your puppy to expend energy in a way that is suitable and acceptable to your family. Additionally, family walks are a great way to spend time with your mini Goldendoodle in a healthy and fun way. Once fully vaccinated, introducing them to other puppies can be a great socialization tool, too. Crating your mini Goldendoodle Crate training is a process that is crucial to training your mini Goldendoodle. Ensuring that your new puppy is confined to a crate when unsupervised is essential in preventing accidents and teaching them that they can control the urge to eliminate. Creating and maintaining a schedule for your family is crucial for the development and training of a mini Goldendoodle. Sticking to the schedule and ensuring your puppy is socialized is especially important in the first few months of housetraining. To start, crate time should be limited to three hours before taking the puppy out to eliminate and can increase by one hour after every month of training. Non-shedding Mini Goldendoodles are also widely popular for their reduced or lack of shedding. This gene determines whether your mini Goldendoodle will be completely non-shedding or low shedding. Some reputable breeders have succeeded in creating multigenerational mini Goldendoodles that are completely non-shedding. These dogs have two copies of the furnishing genes. It was once thought that the curly coat was responsible for a puppy being non-shedding but with testing and new DNA technology, mini Goldendoodles with all coat types can be non-shedding. Having a dog that is non-shedding is favorable to families with allergies to pets and prevents copious amounts of dog hair in your home. Grooming Because of their coat type, grooming a miniature Goldendoodle is essential to its appearance and cleanliness. Mini Goldendoodles require brushing every day with a slick brush and metal comb to prevent matting of their gorgeous coats. Sticking to a schedule of brushing is essential in training your puppy that grooming is a daily routine so that it becomes easier as they grow older. Additionally, their nails should be clipped monthly; groomers typically include clipping nails as part of their services. You may bathe your mini Goldendoodle as often as needed but you must use a tearless shampoo to prevent drying out their coats. This should be accompanied by teeth brushing. Overall, mini Goldendoodles require some attention and upkeep but are no more difficult to groom than other long coated dogs! Puppy Culture is a popular program that sets the gold standard in raising properly exposed and socialized litters. Through this program, topics like early socialization, anti-aggression protocols, handling fear periods, problem prevention and more are covered. There are several stages to puppy culture which signal social progression and development in new puppies. First Steps to getting your mini Goldendoodle A quality mini Goldendoodle is bred from parents who have been thoroughly tested for healthy genes via DNA and certified free and clear of issues of the heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patellas. Thus, mini Goldendoodles may be pricier than other breeds. However, this addition to your family is worthwhile as costly health issues down the road not only can exceed the purchase price, the avoidable suffering of the mini Goldendoodle has no price tag. Additionally, regardless of the experience of breeders, the temperament, size, and gender of each puppy cannot be determined before birth. Applications allow breeders to understand the desired traits needed by each individual family so that puppies can be matched appropriately ensuring compatibility. Uniqueness All mini Goldendoodles are wonderfully unique in their own ways. As mentioned, these puppies come in a wide variety of colors, coats, and personalities. But, the true mark of a mini Goldendoodle stays the same; they are all incredibly loving and make the perfect family member. Your mini Goldendoodle is bred specifically for some of the greatest qualities that people look for in puppies. They are kind, smart, eager to please, and are the most cuddly, little teddy bears. Adding a mini Goldendoodle to any family is one of the most wonderful decisions that can be made. Mini Goldendoodles are a fairly new breed and the perfect addition to any family. Their gentleness, friendliness, and cuddly, teddy bear look make them the best dogs for people in all walks of life. This breed mix is all the rage with the perfect characteristic and lovable traits. Not only will you love your mini Goldendoodle, they will love you unconditionally, too. Sept 14, Happy Thursday! Thanks so much for visiting our site! We think that our smaller golden doodles are the perfect family addition! We absolutely love the temperament of golden retrievers, but not so much the size and the shedding. Our goal is to give you a puppy with a great temperament, in a smaller size, without all of the shedding. We would love to help your family adopt one of our mini or toy Goldendoodles. We want to make this process as much fun as we can! Our deposits are refundable for any reason for up to two years. After 18 years of raising mini golden doodles, we have learned that the daily personal interaction with our dogs and the puppies, leads to a more well rounded and well adjusted puppy. We raise F1 mini doodles, F1b mini doodles and F1b toys. For those with more severe allergies, this may be the way to go. .Our minis average pounds and our toys average pounds full grown. You can visit our photo gallery to see pictures of our past and present puppies! There are hundreds and hundreds of pictures in the photo gallery so get comfortable!!! Reach out to us anytime! Our farms have lots of room to run and a creeks to play in! With our kids, our nieces and nephews and extended families, the puppies get lots of love, playtime and socialization. This allows them to be more well adjusted little puppies when they go to their new homes. We have Mini Goldendoodle Puppies Available! Sept 14, We have puppies!! Puppy Picks happen on the day that the puppies get to go home. This is so that families can better see the temperaments of the puppies, making it easier for them to choose the right puppy for their family. Some families are looking for a couch potato, some for a more active doodle to run or hike with. We will for sure help you during the picking process, whether in person or with FaceTime. Families can send a refundable deposit to hold their picking spot on a litter, then come on Puppy Pick Day to choose and take their puppy home. We post new photos in the photo gallery every weekend, so check that out! We wait until that day so that the puppies are old enough to be able to see their little personalities. The deposits are fully refundable for up to 2 years. If families would rather wait on a future litter… they will go on the waiting list. Your puppy can then be driven to you or we can meet you somewhere in between. We can also ship your puppy via American Airlines if the temperature is between 20 and 82 degrees, or we can recommend a flight nanny to fly with your puppy in cabin. You can of course remain on the waiting list longer than two years, if you want to keep passing on litters. .Be sure to contact us for our current pricing. Our mini goldendoodle puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee against genetic issues. Should something arise in those 2 years, we will cover the cost of treatment up to the cost of the puppy. We know that parting with a family member would be impossible… All this said, our mini golden doodles have been so incredibly healthy. Our vet is a HUGE fan of mini doodles. I post fun and exciting things…. You can like our Facebook page where lots of our families are posting great pictures and videos of their puppies in their new homes! There are links to Instagram, Twitter and Facebook at the top right corner of this page!! We welcome families to come visit our farm to meet us, the parents and of course the mini goldendoodle puppies. We love to show off how we raise our puppies and how our moms and dads live here, and they of course love meeting new people! Besides that, we know that getting a puppy is a huge deal and getting to see where they come from is very important! Be sure to visit our photo gallery to see hundreds of pictures of our puppies in their new home! You can see the different coats and colors of our puppies and who the parents are of each puppy. Knowing which of our earlier puppies you like helps us to know what you would like your puppy to look like. Be sure to like our Facebook page too! Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article. We offer a personal touch to breeding and raising our puppies, ensuring that every customer feels like a part of our family. If you have any questions or concerns, we are just a phone call, text, or email away. About Our Miniature Goldendoodles Our Miniature Goldendoodles are an exceptional hybrid breed, resulting from a purebred Golden Retriever and a miniature poodle cross. At maturity, they typically average 25 lbs. Our mini puppies embody the best characteristics of their parent breeds, including the amiable temperament of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the miniature poodle, making them ideal allergy-friendly pets. While our puppies are generally low shedding, some shedding may occur when the puppy coat transitions into the adult coat. Our female, Paislee, has abstract pups. Our puppies are wormed at weeks 4, 5, and 6 and receive their first puppy vaccine at 6 weeks. Before leaving our possession, each puppy undergoes a veterinary check to ensure their health. If any issues are detected, we will assist you in moving your deposit to another litter, if you choose to do so. If you wish to purchase a puppy for the purpose of breeding multiple litters, the cost is double the pet price. Our Happy Clients Our puppies have found loving homes all across the country. Take a look at the map below to see where our Mini Goldendoodle puppies have been placed and join our community of happy puppy owners! We got our mini golden doodle here and had a great experience. Neely was amazing and so helpful in answering all my questions. Highly recommended! They have been more wonderful than we could have ever imagined. They are the sweetest and smartest puppies ever! I highly recommend Cheryl at Walters Mini Golden Doodles if you are looking for the perfect addition to your family! The team would send me weekly updates and provided the 1st round of vaccines for us. I would recommend using this breeder and would purchase another puppy from them again! This is Benny, whose parents were Mars and Bella. He just turned 2 in April and weighs 37lbs. I would highly recommend her services. We had the opportunity to bring our precious little puppy home on .Teddi Belle is such a joy to have and our family is blessed to add her to our addition. First, and all subsequent vet check-ups were excellent. Our niece has also purchased a Mini Goldendoodle from Walters and is experiencing similar enjoyment. I would recommend this breeder to anyone who asks me. Do not hesitate to consider Walters Mini Golden doodles as your breeder. We are here to help make your forever home complete with a happy and healthy Miniature Goldendoodle puppy.

The Risks of Overfeeding Puppies 1. Increased risk of joint and bone issues One of the most common consequences of overfeeding is an increased risk of joint and bone issues. When puppies are overfed, they tend to grow too rapidly, which can lead to stress on the bones and joints. This stress can cause the bones to develop abnormally, leading to skeletal deformities such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. These issues may cause discomfort and pain to your puppy, ultimately leading to a lower quality of life for your furry friend. Additionally, managing these issues may require expensive surgeries or extensive medical treatments. As a result, it is crucial to establish healthy eating habits from an early age to reduce the risk of these complications. A healthy and balanced diet is essential for growing puppies, and it should take into account their breed, size, and activity levels. For larger breeds, a puppy diet that is lower in calories and rich in protein is recommended, to help maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the risk of bone and joint-related health issues. Higher likelihood of heart disease and diabetes Another risk of overfeeding puppies is a higher likelihood of heart disease and diabetes. Furthermore, overfeeding contributes to higher levels of blood sugar, which can cause an insulin response, leading to an increased likelihood of developing diabetes. This risk is especially high for puppies that consume high-calorie foods , such as treats with added sugars. A balanced diet will provide your puppy with all the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and help prevent the development of health conditions. Puppies should be fed multiple small meals throughout the day instead of fewer large ones to keep their blood sugar levels even. Reduced life expectancy Another significant risk of overfeeding your puppy is a reduced life expectancy. When a puppy is overfed, it can lead to rapid weight gain and, over time, become obese. Moreover, overfeeding also places stress on vital organs such as the kidneys and the liver, leading to irreversible damage. Additionally, giving your puppy plenty of exercise can avoid the risks that come with overfeeding, help control their weight and boost their growth. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common genetic disorder in puppies that can be exacerbated by overfeeding. Overfeeding can exacerbate the condition by placing more stress on the developing hip joint, causing it to deform further. To prevent hip dysplasia in puppies, it is essential to control their growth by ensuring they receive an appropriate amount of food daily. Avoiding overfeeding, especially during the rapid growth phase, can reduce stress on the joints, helping to prevent abnormal development. Additionally, providing regular exercise to your puppy is essential to strengthen their muscles and joints, helping to prevent dysplasia and keeping them healthy. Elbow dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is another genetic disorder commonly found in puppies, which can be exacerbated by overfeeding and inappropriate exercise. Overfeeding can increase stress on the joint, leading to further degeneration and exacerbating the condition. Puppies that grow too rapidly are at higher risk of developing elbow dysplasia, which can be painful and debilitating. To reduce the risk of elbow dysplasia, it is essential to provide your puppy with a balanced and appropriate diet and ensure they receive enough exercise to strengthen their muscles and reduce stress on the joints. Feeding puppies multiple, small meals instead of larger ones can help avoid rapid weight gain, reducing the risk of joint-related health issues. If you suspect that your puppy may have elbow dysplasia or other joint issues, consult with your veterinarian immediately to obtain appropriate treatment as early intervention can reduce discomfort and potential complications. Osteochondrosis dissecans Osteochondrosis dissecans OCD is a painful joint disorder that can affect puppies. It occurs when a small piece of bone or cartilage within a joint fails to develop correctly and separates from the surrounding tissues. This leads to inflammation and discomfort within the joint, and in severe cases, it can cause lameness. Overfeeding can contribute to the development of OCD by causing rapid growth and increased stress on the joints. Overnutrition can cause growth plates to close earlier than normal, leading to abnormal bone development and joint issues common in later life. This includes monitoring portion sizes and minimizing intake of sugars and foods with high-fat levels. Additionally, providing your puppy with low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, helps to strengthen their muscles and keep their joints healthy. Early treatment can help manage symptoms and halt the progression of joint-related issues. The Risks of Overfeeding Puppies 7. Diarrhea or constipation Overfeeding puppies can lead to digestive problems like diarrhea or constipation. When puppies eat too much, their digestive tract can become overloaded, leading to issues with nutrient absorption and waste expulsion. This can be exacerbated by feeding puppies table scraps or high-fat foods, which are difficult for their digestive systems to process. To reduce the risk of digestive issues, it is essential to provide puppies with a balanced and appropriate diet that accounts for their age, breed, and activity levels. Puppies should be fed small, frequent meals throughout the day to help with digestion. Additionally, ensuring puppies have access to plenty of fresh water can help keep their digestive system healthy. Avoid feeding puppies table scraps or high-fat foods, and always speak to your veterinarian if you notice any unusual bowel movements. Bloating and flatulence Bloating and flatulence are other potential risks associated with overfeeding puppies. When puppies eat too much or too quickly, they can swallow excessive amounts of air, leading to bloating and gas. Overfeeding can also cause food to remain undigested in the digestive tract, leading to fermentation and further gas production, leading to flatulence. Bloating and flatulence can cause discomfort, pain, and even vomiting in puppies, leading to a lower quality of life. To prevent bloating and flatulence, it is essential to ensure that puppies eat at a reasonable pace and receive small, frequent meals. Additionally, avoid feeding them high-fiber foods or table scraps that can cause fermentation in their digestive system. Increased risk of food allergies or sensitivities Overfeeding puppies can increase the risk of food allergies or sensitivities, leading to skin issues, digestive issues, and other health problems. When puppies consume too much food, their immune system can become overworked, leading to an increased likelihood of developing food allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, feeding high-calorie and high-protein foods can increase the risk of developing an allergy or sensitivity to certain ingredients, leading to adverse reactions and discomfort. Pet owners can reduce the risk of food allergies or sensitivities by providing a balanced and appropriate diet that consists of high-quality ingredients to help prevent digestive and skin-related health issues. Pet owners should also avoid feeding their puppies table scraps or certain human foods that can exacerbate food sensitivities. If your puppy is gaining weight too quickly, it could be a sign that they are overfed. Step 2: Check for bloating and discomfort Overfeeding your puppy can cause bloating and discomfort, especially after meals. Look for signs of discomfort, such as panting and restlessness. Step 3: Monitor their energy levels Puppies that are overfed may have lower energy levels and be less active. If your puppy is lethargic and uninterested in play or exercises, it could be a sign that they are overfed. Step 5: Watch for digestive problems Overfeeding can cause digestive upsets such as diarrhea and constipation. The Risks of Overfeeding Puppies Preventing Overfeeding in Puppies Preventing overfeeding in puppies is essential to maintain their overall health and prevent various complications. Here are some ways you can prevent overfeeding your puppy: Step 1: Establish a routine Puppies thrive on routines, and establishing a regular feeding schedule can help prevent overfeeding. Feed your puppy small meals at set times, and stick to the same schedule every day. Consult with your veterinarian to determine how much food your puppy should eat daily. Avoid feeding them table scraps and human foods as they can cause digestive problems. Ensure they receive the appropriate amount of exercise every day to keep them active and healthy. If your puppy starts to gain weight too quickly, reduce their food intake and provide more exercise. The Risks of Overfeeding Puppies In Conclusion In conclusion, overfeeding your puppy may seem like an innocent act of love, but it can ultimately lead to serious health complications that can impact their overall well-being. The risks associated with overfeeding, such as obesity and joint problems, can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort for your furry friend. By following the tips in this article and consulting with your veterinarian, you can help ensure your puppy lives a long, healthy, and happy life. Share this:. Pinterest This post may contain affiliate links, or we may earn money from the companies mentioned in this post. For more information on this, please visit our legal page. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs that you are overfeeding your puppy, as well as what you can do to mitigate the risks. Every puppy has adorable curves, but would you be able to tell if your puppy was overweight? But, unfortunately, overfeeding is a well-meaning reality with a lot of pet owners. Being able to tell the difference between puppy rolls and an overweight puppy can be the difference between a healthy, active adult dog and a dog with medical issues. How do you know if you are overfeeding your puppy? On the other hand, if they are thinner than average, then they may not be getting enough food. A normal, healthy stool followed by soft stools in the evening is a good indication that you are feeding them too much. It is important to monitor their stool quality closely, as overfeeding can lead to health problems such as obesity and digestive issues. By paying attention to their diet, you can ensure that your puppy stays healthy and happy. If the ribs are not visible, this may be an indication that the puppy is overweight and could be at risk for health problems later in life. On the other hand, if the ribs are visible but the waist is not defined, this could be an indication that the puppy is underweight and may need more food. By keeping an eye on the body condition of a puppy, owners can ensure that they are getting the proper nutrition. Click HERE for a body condition score chart to help you out. Ref: A five out of nine is a perfect body condition score where the dog or the cat has sort of an hourglass figure and you can see some of the ribs. What happens if you overfeed a puppy? Overfeeding a puppy can have a number of consequences. It can also lead to the puppy becoming obese, which can cause a range of health problems in later life. Finally, overfeeding can result in the puppy developing a taste for rich food, which may lead to them becoming fussy eaters. In summary, overfeeding a puppy can have serious implications for its health and well-being. It is therefore important to be careful when choosing their food and to only give them as much as they need. Weight Gain Overfeeding a puppy can lead to weight gain, which can be harmful to their health. Puppies are growing and need extra calories to fuel their growth, but too many calories can lead to weight gain. Overweight puppies are also more likely to become obese adults, which can lead to a number of health problems including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. When puppies are overfed, they often gain weight too quickly. This excess weight puts unnecessary stress on their joints and bones, which can stunt their growth or cause joint problems later in life. Hip Dysplasia Can overfeeding a puppy cause hip dysplasia? This is a question that has been debated among dog breeders for years. Some believe that overfeeding can lead to joint problems, including hip dysplasia, while others contend that the real cause of this condition is genetics. The truth is, however, that there is no definitive answer. Some puppies who are overfed do develop hip dysplasia, while others who are fed a normal diet do not. The best way to prevent this condition is to feed your puppy a balanced diet and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Bowel Issues and abdominal discomfort Overfeeding a puppy can also cause problems with its digestive system, leading to episodes of diarrhea or vomiting. In some cases, this can lead to dehydration if not treated promptly. Flatulence or Dog Bloat Puppies are notoriously gassy creatures. When puppies eat more than their bodies can digest, the excess food ferments in their intestines, causing gas. This can lead to uncomfortable bloating and discomfort for the pup, as well as some very smelly farting! If your puppy seems to be farting more than usual, try cutting back on their food a bit and see if it makes a difference. Itchiness Overfeeding a puppy can have a number of adverse effects on its health, one of which is itchiness. When a puppy eats more food than they need, its body has to work harder to process the excess nutrients. This can put a strain on their organs and can cause problems like dry skin and itching. Tear Staining Tear staining is a common problem for many dog owners, especially those with smaller breeds. The condition is caused by a build-up of tears in the tear ducts, which can be triggered by a number of factors, including overfeeding. In addition, overfeeding can also cause tears to build up in the tear ducts, leading to tear staining. Lethargy One of the most common problems that veterinarians see in puppies is overfeeding. Puppies are born with high metabolisms and require more calories per pound of body weight than an adult dog. However, many well-meaning pet owners mistakenly believe that feeding their puppy more food will help them to grow faster and reach their full size sooner. As a result, overfed puppies often suffer from lethargy, as their bodies are unable to properly process all of the calories they are consuming. However, overfeeding a puppy can lead to a number of health problems, including obesity and joint problems. In fact, studies have shown that puppies who are overweight are more likely to have shorter lifespans than those who are of normal weight. By monitoring their food intake and making sure they get plenty of exercise, you can help them stay at a healthy weight and avoid many of the health problems associated with being overweight. What do I do if my puppy overeats? Now what? Puppies develop rapidly in the first year of life, including their vital organs, muscles, and bones. Accidentally overfeeding your puppy can cause abnormal bone growth. For example, large-breed dogs being fed higher amounts of calcium has been linked to painful skeletal issues later in life. Review food portions and feeding schedule A feeding schedule can make sure your puppy is being given the correct amount of nutrients. When you go by the proper guidelines and keep to a daily routine, adding up the calories will be a lot less work. Lots of dog treats are full of unnecessary fats and sugars. Remember treats should be given sparingly and only be used for training and rewarding desired good behaviors. Check your pet store for healthy alternatives, or give your puppy appropriate fresh fruits and veggies for snacks! See your veterinarian A simple trip to the vet could save your puppy some major aches and pains in their adult life. So you can develop a good weight management program. Overfeeding a puppy can cause diarrhea for several reasons. Second, puppies are more prone to developing food allergies than adults, and an overabundance of food can trigger an allergic reaction. Finally, puppies typically have a high metabolism, and they may burn off more calories than they consume if they are overfed. This can lead to weight loss and diarrhea. Therefore, it is important to feed puppies small meals several times a day rather than one large meal. This will help them to digest their food properly and avoid developing diarrhea. Can overfeeding puppy cause blood in stool? Overfeeding a puppy can cause blood in stool for a number of reasons. First, when a puppy is overfed, they can develop sharp points on their stools that can cut or tear the anus or rectum, leading to bleeding. Finally, when a puppy eats too much food, they may not be able to properly digest it all, leading to bloody diarrhea. In the meantime, cut back on their food intake and try feeding them smaller meals more often. Can overfeeding a puppy cause loose stools? The answer is yes. In addition to being messy, this can also lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Can overfeeding a puppy cause vomiting? One common problem that can occur is vomiting. This is usually caused by eating too much food too quickly, which can be a particular problem for puppies who are still learning to control their food intake. Can overfeeding a puppy cause constipation? It is a common myth that overfeeding a puppy can cause constipation. However, this is not the case. The reality is that constipation is more likely to be caused by a lack of fiber in the diet or by dehydration. Puppies are also more prone to constipation if they are not getting enough exercise. In most cases, constipation can be easily treated by adding a reasonable amount of healthy fiber to the diet or increasing the amount of water that the puppy drinks. However, if constipation persists, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Can overfeeding a puppy make them sick? Too much food can lead to health problems, including indigestion, obesity, and even pancreatitis. Signs that a puppy is being overfed include vomiting, diarrhea, and a distended abdomen. Lifestyle It all should be balanced.What does it mean actually? Sometimes we strive so hard to provide our dogs with the best life possible, that we start doing the wrong things due to our strong bond and love for them. Overfeeding is one of those things, that often we do not perceive as a bad thing as it is supposed to show how responsible owners we are. Are we overfeeding our pups and the consequences for their health might be important topics that we want to pay attention to? In general, obese dogs have lower energy levels, impacting their quality of life and reducing their lifespan. Being overweight means more pressure on the bones and joints, which may lead to a condition called Osteochondrosis. This condition includes several disorders that may occur due to abnormal growth or injury. That is why you should always pay attention to any physical signs that may occur as symptoms of an underlying health problem. Always remember, that an unhealthy diet and lifestyle can affect dogs of all breeds. Hip dysplasia is a health condition that is characterized by a hip deformity that occurs during the process of growing. The hip joint features a ball and a socket joint, that must grow at equal rates. When there is hip dysplasia, uniform growth does not occur, which results in the inability of the hip and the ball joint to fit together. If you regularly overfeed your pup, the extra pounds will put pressure on the hips which will lead to uneven hip socket wear. An examination at the veterinarian's office will be needed so that this condition can be properly treated. Digestive Problems Diarrhea and vomiting lasting more than days are likely to be signs of an irritated digestive system. Usually, pups need no longer than days to feel better. If you notice that these symptoms do not disappear, they might be signs of regular overfeeding and you should consult a veterinarian. They will provide you with accurate information about the daily quantity of food your pup should take to stay healthy based on their age, breed, and lifestyle. Bloat Having a distended stomach may become a serious problem that may require an operation to be solved. Pancreatitis If you have put your pup on a diet that is high in fat, this may result in Pancreatitis. Since you already know how dangerous for your pup overfeeding can be, you may want to know how to determine if you are overfeeding your pup. Are You Overfeeding Your Pup? Flatulence that occasionally occurs is quite normal. Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased energy level, fatigue, panting, swollen abdomen, and excessive drooling, might point out that you overfeed your dog. Feeding a pup is different from feeding an adult dog when it comes to frequency and calories. As a general rule, pups should be fed about times a day until they reach the age of 6 months. Give your paw friend small portions during the day and make a smooth transition from wet to solid food. At the age of 6 months, pups should be fed 2 times a day. Since pups are still learning and actively exploring their surroundings they need some guidance to know how to behave properly and what their role in the world is. Treats food in general are a primary positive reinforcement tool , that can be very beneficial but also can have a negative effect on your pup if you misuse them. You should always keep track of the number of treats you feed your pup and check their ingredients first. You can add human food as well such as chicken, fish, white rice, green beans plain , carrots, small amounts of pumpkin plain canned pumpkin …etc. We would recommend that you do research or directly consult a veterinarian about what human food is safe for dogs and what amounts you should feed your paw friend. Check the Labels It is important to check the label for two reasons-you will know what the ingredients are, as you may want to avoid food brands containing a lot of fillers and additives; you will see the guidelines on what portions and how many times a day you should feed your dog. Of course, we would recommend that you double-check these with a veterinarian. Lifestyle Overfeeding your dog might be only a part of a bigger problem- an unhealthy lifestyle in general. You should not neglect regular walks and exercises as well as mental stimulation in the form of games. Some dog owners have an incorrect belief that they should constantly feed their labradors. As the dog owners tend to believe that the more they consume, the healthier their pet will be. However, it really works the opposite way around. A healthy labrador is much different from one that has been overfed. A healthy Labrador can weigh 55 to 75 pounds, while an overweight labrador can weigh more than pounds, which is concerning. When overfed, a labrador may suffer from serious health issues such as: Arthritis Heart diseases Reduced lifespan You must therefore be on the lookout for signs of overfeeding in your labrador. Overfeeding Labradors: 10 signs to look out for New York veterinarian Danny Tufaro shares his advice on how to prevent overfeeding your pets. If your labrador is overfeeding is to examine his or her waist. You should observe whether his belly slopes upward beneath his belly, whether it is level between his legs, or if it is convex among his legs. It is best if the labrador has a slope that extends upwards from the bottom of his chest, in the direction of his rear legs. Then, observe your labrador from the above position. Is there an apparent waist in front of his hips? Does he appear to have one? If so, you must see one. Examine your dog once more from an angle. Are there any ribs visible? However, some may be visible with movement, such as eating, drinking, and twisting. If necessary, you can also use the internet to look up pictures of healthy labradors, and compare your lab with them. Your labrador is overfeeding if he poos soft after mealtimes. Not only this, overeating can lead to other health problems as well, like constipation, digestive problems, and inflammation. Your puppy may be eating too much if they have normal stools beforehand, followed by soft stools afterward. Playfulness and bouncing around are the most important aspects of this period of their lives. This energy is only fueled by curiosity. There are, after all, a lot of unfamiliar things in the world. Therefore, if your labrador puppy does not seem to be doing well, overeating might be to blame. The sluggishness usually follows a meal, or sometimes even a nap. The sluggishness should, however, not linger for too long. As soon as the pup wakes up, its energy level will return to where it was before. The first time your pet exhibits a significant change in behavior, make an appointment with your veterinarian. No matter what the cause, this type of change must be monitored to ensure a healthy pet. When your labrador has become overweight from eating too much, unfortunately, cleaning those hard-to-reach areas becomes nearly impossible. The aging process, arthritis, and other health conditions, too, contribute to difficulties in cleaning. Ingesting excessive amounts of any food, however healthy, can cause gastrointestinal problems, with flatulence being a common side effect. Dogs have balloon-shaped stomachs, much like humans. People, who eat fast eating or eat too much may experience gas, bloating, and other symptoms, although they recover quickly. In Labrador, however, the situation is different, as what begins as gas can quickly deteriorate into a much more serious issue. You will be able to see the signs such as: Large abdomen. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. Here John Burns, veterinary surgeon and founder of Burns Pet Nutrition , looks at 10 tell-tale signs that you are overfeeding pets: They look overweight It may sound obvious, but the simplest way to tell if your dog is eating too much is to check their waist. Being able to see the last couple of ribs when a dog is moving is indicative of the perfect weight. If you have to press to feel the ribs or the waist is barely visible, this means that there is a layer of fat covering them and your dog is likely to be overweight. Over-nutrition can cause health problems other than excessive weight gain including loose stools, abdominal discomfort and swelling. Overfeeding puts more demands on the digestive system and reduces its efficiency, subsequently resulting in upset digestion. As feeding too much of even the right foods can lead to issues in the digestive tract, overfeeding can often result in issues with flatulence. Skin disorders and moulting A common misconception is that constant moulting is ordinary and something that dog owners just have to put up with. Persistent moulting, along with a range of other common skin and coat problems, like obsessive grooming, feet chewing, balding patches and skin eruptions, is indicative of excess waste in the system that the dog is trying to eliminate. Common causes are an allergic reaction to certain ingredients, poor diet and, you guessed it — overfeeding. Even with good quality food, too much food contributes to the toxic burden of the system which causes problems like dry skin and itching. If your vet rules out a medical cause for itching, and you are sure that you are feeding your dogs the correct amount, your dog may have a sensitive digestion which requires a specific type of diet. Poo eating There are several misconceptions around poo eating. In reality, ingesting faeces, either their own or that of another dog or animal, is actually linked to underlying health issues. Most often it is a symptom of an issue with the digestive system. While some dogs show obvious signs of digestive upset such as loose stools, for many, the only indication is poo eating. Joint problems Dogs that carry a few extra pounds may experience the same health problems as overweight people, like heart disease or diabetes. Tear staining Tear staining is usually seen in small and toy breeds with light coloured coats and is characterised by runny eyes where the tears stain the hair on the face a pinkish-brown colour. Tear staining is triggered by a build-up of toxic waste, often caused through over-feeding, and commonly accompanied by other health problems. It can be successfully eliminated with correct nutrition and portion sizes. Lethargy Although a frustratingly vague symptom that could indicate a number of health concerns, a consistently overfed pet might not have the energy it once had before extra weight made activities more difficult. They could be the culprit. Over-feeding pets can cause a whole host of health problems and, combined with poor quality food, can contribute to excess toxic waste in the body, bringing with it its own set of issues. To avoid this, you should feed your dogs a high-quality diet of natural, wholesome foods that are low in fat and protein, free from additives other than essential vitamins and minerals and based on complex carbohydrates like Burns. Fed sparingly this can prevent build-up of toxic matter and ensure you have a happy, healthy pooch. Check out our feeding guide for general information on feeding amounts — just be mindful that requirements vary and depend on many factors like the age and breed of your pet, their activity level, whether they are neutered, and other individual variations. To shop our range of healthy, quality dog food, and for advice on how much to feed your pet, take a look at our online store. Nutrition Advice. Just like humans, overeating can make puppies sick. They can get an upset stomach and vomit or have diarrhea. Puppies with short noses, like pugs and bulldogs, are especially susceptible to these problems since they already have a hard time breathing and digesting properly. If your puppy is overeating and vomiting, take them to the vet immediately as they could end up dehydrated very quickly. Yes, an overfed puppy can become obese, which can lead to all sorts of health problems down the road. Obesity in dogs is just as dangerous as it is in humans and can cause joint problems, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even shorten their life. If you think your puppy is starting to get too heavy, talk to your vet about switching to a healthier diet and getting them on an exercise program. One way to tell if your puppy is overeating is by monitoring their weight. Most puppies will gain about pounds per week during their first few months of life. If they are gaining more than that, they may be overeating. Another way to tell is by looking at their stools. If they are soft or runny, it could be a sign that they are eating too much. And finally, if your puppy always seems hungry or is begging for food constantly, they may be overeating. If you think your puppy is overeating, talk to your vet about the best way to get them on a healthier diet. Too much food can cause a puppy to feel sick, their digestive system to feel too full, and can make them feel overall icky. If a dog eats too much dry food, they might have a swollen stomach or bloated stomach or might have diarrhea. Since most brands of dry kibble are very rich in calories, a healthy diet is one that follows the feeding instructions. If your pup or dog has eaten too much, you can keep them in a comfortable position, trying to help work out any gas from their bloated stomach. Taking frequent walks will help keep your dog at a healthy weight. Feeding the correct amount of a healthy diet will help all dog breeds feel their best. Feeding small meals throughout the day rather than one large meal can help most dogs eat less food and prevent bloat or help them feel symptoms of a gassy stomach. Typically, puppies will not eat too much dry food. Dogs love to eat, but puppies are so active that they usually remain at their ideal weight, despite sometimes eating more food than they should. At times, a pup might have a swollen stomach if they eat too much food for their stomach to handle. Use a slow feeder if your pet tends to eat their food very fast. Puppies need the right amount of food to grow properly and stay healthy, just like humans. Overfeeding them can lead to obesity and other health problems. If you think your puppy is overeating, talk to your vet about how to get them on a healthier diet and keep them at a healthy weight. Puppies typically love food! Dry food smells good, tastes good, and pets tend to love it, especially young dogs. A slow feeder is a great way to allow your pets to eat their food in smaller portions while feeling like they are eating the same amount of dog food.

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Poodle muzzle Gorgeous furry white poodle in the park Gorgeous furry white poodle in the park Playful poodle dog ona paved path in a garden White poodle in front of white background Puppy poodle in green garden - happy dog in the garden - Pet Poodle dog enjoying her relaxing sun bathing at home possibly as therapy to relieve skin itch White poodle dog on a grass in a garden. Red Toy Poodle puppy. The teacup poodle is a newer type of poodle and has only recently found great popularity in the past twenty years. Originally, the poodle originated in Germany around the early 14th century and was used as a hunting dog that retrieved waterfowl. The poodle is also the national dog of France and is widely known for being intelligent, loyal, and loving. Over time, smaller sizes of this pup began being bred, and the poodle became more popular as a companion or lap dog. The miniature poodle originated in the early 20th century when American breeders started to create a more city-friendly poodle. The smallest puppies from toy poodle litters were used for breeding teacup poodles, achieving their small size. However, despite this small stature, the teacup poodle has a lot to offer owners. They lack none of the intelligence of the standard-sized poodle, and they are alert, friendly, and easy to train. Teacup poodles form strong bonds with their owners and are playful and affectionate, but they may be prone to nervousness if not properly cared for or left alone for too long. Teacup poodles stand no more than 9 inches tall and weigh up to 6 pounds. They have round heads with a slight stop, much like standard-sized poodles, floppy ears, and a longer muzzle. Their eyes are typically small and dark, but very alert, and they will have a longer neck, square body, and straight back with long legs. The coat of the teacup poodle is thicker, curly, and soft and will need to be brushed often to prevent tangles. What Size Is a Teacup Poodle? Teacup poodles are, as the name implies, pretty small dogs. This pup will stand no more than 9 inches tall and weigh less than 6 pounds. They can be quite fragile because of their small size, so you will need to pay extra attention to your dog while it is playing or moving around your home. The teacup poodle has a coat much like the standard-size poodles. Teacup poodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, so they may be a beneficial breed for those with allergies. The teacup poodle has a friendly disposition and is intelligent, alert, loyal, and loving. This pup tends to become very attached to their owners and will often be seen following them from room to room. Teacup poodles are also very smart and can pick up tricks easily. They are eager to please and will love the time spent with you learning new commands. Teacup poodles are not known to have a high prey drive or act very aggressively toward other animals, though they may be quite vocal if they notice something suspicious around their home. Are Teacup Poodles Affectionate? Teacup poodles are very affectionate and will enjoy spending as much time with their owner as possible. You can expect your teacup poodle to enjoy cuddling on the couch, sleeping in the same room as you at nighttime, and wanting to play frequently throughout the day. The small size of this breed makes them quite fragile, so rough play with children can lead to the dog becoming injured. Lots of yelling, excitement, and busy play from smaller children can also scare your teacup poodle, creating anxiety, nervousness, or barking issues. That being said, families with older, calmer children and children that know how to properly play with animals can easily get along with this pup. Teacup poodles are generally good with other animals as they are a friendly and social pup. Are Teacup Poodles Aggressive? Your teacup poodle is unlikely to attack, nip, or act aggressively toward strangers, but they can develop these behaviors if they are very anxious, fearful, or bored. Do Teacup Poodles Bark a Lot? Teacup poodles are, unfortunately, quite vocal, and you can expect this dog to bark at just about anything. Teacup poodles will bark when they are happy and playing, in addition to barking at things they find suspicious or untrustworthy around their home. They may also bark to draw your attention or to show their displeasure with something. You can train excessive barking habits down somewhat, but keep in mind that your teacup poodle is likely to be on the more vocal side, no matter what. Are Teacup Poodles Intelligent? This dog breed is fairly intelligent, and teacup poodles can easily learn new tricks. They can be house trained relatively quickly in addition to learning more complex commands and skills. Plus, teacup poodles are easy to please and love a mental challenge, something that adds to their learning abilities. Are Teacup Poodles Easy to Train? Due to their higher intelligence, teacup poodles can be quite easy to train. They are loyal, affectionate, and eager to please their owners, all factors which help them pick up new skills quickly and learn basic obedience tasks. Your teacup poodle may even be up to the challenge of learning more advanced tricks depending on their intelligence and how quickly they learn. Are Teacup Poodles Energetic? Teacup poodles have a moderate energy level and are a very playful breed. This pup will need two short walks per day that last around 15 minutes each and are likely to expend a lot of energy running around their home and playing with their toys and their families. As long as they have toys around their home and enough space to get their zoomies out from time to time, they will fit well into apartment living. However, you should keep in mind that this pup can be noisy from time to time, so training to curb needless barking is a must. Are Teacup Poodles Good Watchdogs? They are also fairly protective and loyal to their owners, which makes them easily fall into the watchdog role. While teacup poodles may be intelligent and quickly learn many tricks and commands, they are not the best size for acting as service dogs. This breed is too small to help with guiding and mobility support-related tasks, and they are not typically able to fetch heavy items for their owners. However, teacup poodles love being around their owners. So they are a good choice for a companion pup, making them eligible to act as a therapy dog or an emotional support animal. How to Care for a Teacup Poodle Teacup poodles are not the highest maintenance breed out there, but they do require a dedicated care routine to stay happy and healthy. You will need to spend lots of time with your teacup poodle, as this breed is prone to anxiety and loneliness without their owners, something that can easily translate into destructive behaviors. Make sure that you brush your teacup poodle a few times a week, as this helps to release any shed hair before it tangles and mats. You will likely need to take your teacup poodle to be groomed regularly to trim up their hair, give them a good bath, and ensure their coat is kept at a comfortable length. Supplement meals with nutritional treats to keep your pup happy. Your teacup poodle will need to be brushed a few times a week and regularly receive professional grooming. The groomer will help release shed hair, untangle mats safely, and trim up their coat, so your dog is more comfortable. Do Teacup Poodles Shed? Teacup poodles are low-shedding dogs and are often considered hypoallergenic. What Should a Teacup Poodle Eat? Your teacup poodle should be eating a diet of high-quality dry or wet food and, depending on their size, should be consuming between half a cup and one full cup of food per day approximately calories. Due to their small size, teacup poodles may be prone to certain health conditions that affect smaller dogs. These problems include hypoglycemia, heart defects, respiratory and digestive problems, seizures, collapsing trachea, and blindness. Genetically, your teacup poodle may be predisposed to dental disease and luxating patellas. To ensure your teacup poodle stays in the best health, you should be taking them to regular vet visits and checking their behavior for any concerning symptoms such as limping, lethargy, or sudden changes in behavior. Teacup poodles are known to live between 12 and 14 years, though your dog may live longer or shorter than this predicated lifespan, depending on any preexisting health issues and their overall daily care. Regular vet visits and proper care for your dog is the best way to ensure they live a long, healthy, happy life. Are Teacup Poodles Expensive? Due to their smaller size, teacup poodles can be difficult to breed, and there are typically only one or two puppies bred per litter. This creates a relatively higher demand for this dog due to a lower supply and makes teacup poodles fairly expensive. How to Find a Teacup Poodle Breeder If you want to purchase a teacup poodle, you will most likely need to find a breeder to buy from. The best way to do this is to perform internet searches of local and national breeders that are reputable, follow proper breeding practices, and care for both the breeding dogs and the puppies humanely. Make sure to avoid suspect breeding practices, very low-priced dogs if something is too good to be true, it usually is , and anything that looks like a puppy mill, as dogs and puppies that come from these spaces are likely to have been poorly treated and have increased health issues. Can You Adopt a Teacup Poodle? For the most part, teacup poodles are a variation of the standard-sized poodle and are in great demand. It is unlikely that one will turn up at a shelter for adoption, but it is possible. Keep an eye out on local and national poodle rescue organizations to see if a teacup poodle comes through that you can adopt. Are Teacup Poodles Purebred? That being said, its parents may be purebred toy poodles, and the teacup poodle may come from either a line of purebred poodles or mixed breed poodles. Can You Show Teacup Poodles? However, several other kennel clubs and organizations put on events and shows for teacup and toy dog breeds that your teacup poodle may be eligible to participate in. The teacup poodle may be good for new dog owners in certain circumstances. Owners should also be prepared to spend lots of quality time with their dog to prevent anxiousness and behavioral problems. The teacup poodle is a fantastic addition to the right type of lifestyle and family, but you may still be wondering whether or not this is the right dog for you. Review our list of points below to help make your decision easier. The teacup poodle is the right dog for you if: You want a loyal, loving companion dog that will stay by your side when you are home and likely accompany you from room to room. You need a small dog suited to apartment living, or you want a small companion dog that can also act as a helpful watchdog. You want a dog that can exercise for long periods of time and spend time in the outdoors with you hiking or completing working tasks. You want a dog that can be trained for service dog skills, such as guiding and mobility assistance. Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. Nutrition and Feeding Small dog breeds , such as the Toy Poodle, have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide. Grooming Toy Poodles Toy Poodles do not shed and are often though not always tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care, though, generally requiring professional dog grooming , as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The poodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks to be clipped, or you can learn how to do it yourself. A groomer will also advise on ear care. Training Toy Poodles Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can also turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often-busy little dog happy and relaxed. Best Family Dog Breeds The Toy Poodle can make a fabulous family dog but are better for older children and quiet households as, especially as puppies, they are very small and easily injured by rough or boisterous play. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury. Similar breeds:.