golden retriever puppies shipping

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You probably already know that learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy can be a stressful time. But… once you know these easy steps, great things happen! Knowing how to potty train your German Shepherd is vital to having a happy, comfortable life with them. Use this training consistently to have the most effect. A proactive approach works best. Which means you should… focus on preventing accidents, instead of waiting on them to happen! Follow a strict feeding and bathroom schedule to see the best results. Basically, you teach your German Shepherd puppy the right potty skills… until it becomes a habit humanesociety. The key to quick success is taking your pup out every 2 to 3 hours and never giving the opportunity for them to have an accident inside. This means at least 8 to 10 trips outside every single day! In their welcoming and safe crate either resting, eating their meals, or enjoying a play toy. In an exercise pen or playpen with a strict potty area. Under your direct, undivided attention. This means you are always watching your pup. All it takes is for you to check your phone for a few seconds for your pup to have a toileting accident! You can either use a crate to speed up their potty training or provide them an area indoors to eliminate. I prefer the crate method. Housebreaking with the use of a crate speeds up your success rate incredibly! But you want to use the crate positively so they learn to love their little den. Make their crate an enjoyable and inviting place to go. How to show your pup how to love their crate: Never force your pup into their crate! Take your time with crate introduction and allow them to explore under their own will. Serve your pup at least one meal a day inside their crate. Use a Kong with their meal stuffed inside and mixed with a small spoonful of unsweetened Greek yogurt or peanut butter to entice them to stay and work on the Kong inside the crate. Offer treats when they willingly go inside to rest or explore their crate. Use a verbal cue when you want your pup to go into the crate. You can learn all the benefits of teaching your dog to use their crate in this easy post on crate training your German Shepherd successfully. Check it out to get the complete facts, tips, and step-by-step instructions to perfect crate training today. Use Puppy Pads You can use puppy pads if you need to… or skip to step 4 to learn potty training without pads. Not going to use puppy pads? You can skip to step 4. But… if you prefer to use puppy pads, then you need an area where you always take your dog when they need to go to the bathroom. Preferably place their pads near the door that you eventually want them to use to go outside. Place more pads down than you think you need at first. This is because puppies have poor aim and also may find a spot they prefer other than the one you pick. After a couple of weeks, you may remove the extra pads until there are only two puppy pads on the floor in the primary area they prefer to go. Keep the food and water area away from the puppy pads in another place. Using Puppy Pads Successfully Change your puppy pads as they become soiled. But a lightly soiled pad is attractive to your pup in the beginning stages of training and helps them learn the right area to potty indoors at first. Once they are reliably using the correct spot, you need not continue to use this trick and can throw away the pads as they become too soiled. Training Them to Go Outside After Using Pads Indoors If you set up your pads near the door you use to take them outside to their elimination area, then you can transition them to go outside more easily. So, place or move your puppy pads closer to the door from their original spot to begin the transition to the outdoors. When your pads are close to the door, watch them for their elimination signs and get them to the outside as swiftly as you can. While I generally use a crate to house train my German Shepherd puppy I also totally understand that you might prefer to learn how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy using a puppy pad for any number of reasons. Teach Them a Potty Routine Every day, follow the same routine and schedule to keep your puppy from having accidents inside your house. Teaching your dog to eliminate outside means that you must have a strict schedule. Watch for signs that your pup needs to go potty so you can avoid indoor accidents. Morning Potty Routine First thing in the morning when you let your pup out of their crate or from their sleeping area take them to their potty spot. If in doubt, carry them outside yourself. If you will not leash your pup when you take them out in the morning, then run ahead of them to lead them outside quickly. If you have stairs, carry your pup since rushing downstairs on a full bladder is never a good idea. Outside Potty Routine Stay with your pup until they do their business. You can place your pup in a small confined area to go potty or keep them leashed to you. Stand quietly until they potty. Then, praise them and offer a tasty treat. This can bore you at first, but potty training a German Shepherd puppy becomes easier every day. After 10 to 15 minutes, take them out of their crate and repeat the above process. Learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy takes repetition and patience. How do you know when to take your GSD puppy outside to potty? Take them out after a nap. They need to relieve themselves after sleeping or napping in their crates. Take them out after a play session. Take them out after they drink a large amount of water. Take them out first thing in the morning and the last thing before you place them in their crate or go to bed. Take your dog out when their body language says they are searching for a potty spot! You should take out your German Shepherd puppy every 2 hours for an 8-week-old pup. Add an hour for each month your pup is old. So, a week-old dog needs to go out every 3 hours. And a week-old German Shepherd needs to go outside to relieve herself every 4 hours. Puppy Age How often do you take them outside to potty? Most dogs do not have full bladder control until they are six months old. This means that even if your puppy does learn to hold it, accidents may still happen if it is left inside too long. Not potty training early can extend the process and make things harder. As the puppy grows, the mess and smells will increase. It is also harder to break an existing habit than prevent one from starting in the first place. How long on average does it take to potty train a puppy? If everything goes according to plan, your German Shepherd can be potty trained within five days. However, that does not mean your pup will be able to be locked indoors for eight hours while you go to work and not make a mess. Therefore, a two-month-old puppy needs to go out every two hours. A three-month-old can hold for three, and so on. German Shepherds also often have a high play drive and might completely forget that they need to potty when they want to play instead. There are few things more frustrating than playing outside with your puppy for an hour, only to have them calm down enough to relieve themselves the moment they come indoors. Have a complimentary diet An upset stomach is one of the most common setbacks in housetraining. In particular, puppies are vulnerable to garbage gut because they tend to eat anything smelly or exciting. This is another reason to make use of a crate. Excellent digestive health is not only good for your puppy, but it makes it much easier to stick to your routine. Use a specific door By now, you might be noticing a theme of consistency and routine emerging. Taking your puppy out through the same door helps condition and imprint the housetraining process on your dog and will also serve you later when your dog learns to always ask to go outside at the same door. Leash and lead The leash or lead is a further way of conditioning your puppy. The lead ensures that you can keep them close and make sure they always go to the specific spotty to potty. Do some research on the best collar for German Shephards , as there are some breed specific requirements. Then give a treat or some playtime to reward the correct behavior. Guide your dog back inside A potty run needs to be conditioned as a potty run. While praise, playtime, and treats should be used to make it a positive experience, your pup must learn to stay focused on the task at hand. Creating a negative experience for your dog is more likely to cause sneaky behavior such as peeing and pooping secretly out of fear that you will reprimand them if caught. Make sure you check on your puppy at least twice throughout the night Set an alarm clock and check if your puppy is awake and restless at least twice a night. This is your cue to take the pup outside. If the crate is near your bed and you are a light sleeper, you will likely wake when you hear rustling or whimpering. Stick to a routine A rigid routine is the quickest and smoothest route to a house-trained puppy. Be sure to take the puppy outside as soon as it wakes up in the morning, as well as after a nap, after playtime, and after meals. Until they are at least twelve weeks old, they should be taken out a minimum every two hours during the day. Positive Reinforcement As with all dog training, positive reinforcement works best. Make sure to praise and reward within three seconds of your puppy going potty to make a positive association. While your German Shepherd is learning that the entire house is out of bounds for elimination, the crate is a useful tool to avoid accidents. Once this has been achieved, you can gradually allow your puppy more free rein indoors. Pee Pads are not helpful. Final Thoughts You should be pretty patient and persistent in potty training your German Shepherd puppy. The process should not be stressful for your pet. Potty training of a German Shepherd puppy may turn out even simpler and more straightforward than you expect it to be. How to properly organize the process of potty training so that the pet understands as quickly as possible what the owner wants from it? This article may give you some helpful tips. The Main Factors to Consider for Potty Training a German Shepherd Puppy Needs The essential thing your puppy has to understand is that relieving itself inside the house is inappropriate. These are the factors you need to consider making the entire process go smoothly: Nature Newborn puppies pee and poop in their den. These are the first steps that teach a puppy to maintain order in their living quarters. That is why, when you take your pup at the age of 6- 8 weeks , it has nowhere to learn about cleanliness and that it has to do its business outside the den. You have to substitute its natural lessons and become a mother-dog for your puppy. Conditions German Shepherds remember well what they are taught to do and under what conditions they should do that. It means that, as soon as they have learned a habit, they will never forget it under certain circumstances. For instance, if your puppy knows that it should relieve itself on the lawn, you will never see it pooping on the paved driveway. Gastrointestinal Tract Your puppy will need a toilet just minutes after you feed it. That is why, think about feeding your baby dog at the same time and always follow the established routine. Bladder Starting from the age of 20 days, a German Shepherd can control its bodily functions. When it is 8- 16 weeks old , it can restrain from peeing for about 2 hours. So, take it outside for the toilet each hour to be on the safe side. When it is about a year and 4 months old, you can expect it to hold its pee for about 4 hours. Then, this time will increase. Attitudes Your attitude to the puppy matters a lot. German Shepherds understand commands, of course, but they can also get a lot of information from our body language or pitch of voice. When you distract a little one or rush it, it will get too nervous to do its business properly. Verbal encouragement and calmness are very important here. For example, it needs to be relieved after sleep , after feeding, and when it wakes from a daytime nap. It can also want a toilet after playing. The routine will help your baby dog to learn the rules very quickly. Rewarding Every time your puppy goes to the toilet correctly, you have to praise and reward it with some treats. Express your affection, too. A combination of praise and treats will have the best effect. It may even start finding sneaky places to do its business, despite your reaction to it. However, you should do it every time you catch your puppy in the act. Then, you can hold it in your arms and bring to the place that you want to be its potty. Paper of Pee Pads Remember that paper or pee pads are useless or even harmful. Your puppy may get confused, so more accidents may happen. Start with teaching your little pet to go to the toilet outside, and you will never miss the aim. It will not be able to wait until the morning. An accident may happen at night, so try to take your baby dog outside more frequently. Reduced Availability of New Places Inside The more places your puppy has access to inside your house, the more opportunities it will find to go to the toilet there. Reduce access and start more extensive German Shepherd potty training outside at once. Potty runs are not pretty comfortable at this time of the year. What can you do if the temperature is below zero, and it is bitterly cold outside? Your dog may avoid staying longer for doing its business when it is freezing, or just decline your invitation to go outside for a toilet. It may prefer to hold its pee. However, it can lead to bacteria growth and a UTI as a result. In the cold season, dogs as much as humans do not like to drink big amounts of water. However, they need it to prevent a UTI. So, you have to encourage the dog to drink by warming the water and adding some broth, or organic honey to it. Give your dog food rich in moisture. It is canned, raw, or home-cooked food. You may even soak its kibble in the broth. First of all, protect its paws when it stands on the freezing ground. You can use wood shavings or straws, or even pieces of old clothing or turf. They will help your pet step onto the icy cold ground. You will also protect its paws against anti-ice chemicals that are widely used in urban areas in winter. Put on warm clothes when you walk your dog. When you feel cold and uncomfortable, you will not willingly wait until your puppy does its business. You will be eager to rush home, so there is a chance that your puppy will not relieve itself or do it halfway. Offer your doggy a reward for running out in the cold. Show it that you are happy and delighted with its behavior. Some delicious treats will be a perfect sign of it. Avoid Mistakes in Potty Training In any case, you need to know how to avoid the common mistakes in potty training your German Shepherd puppy. Prohibited Methods The prohibited methods for weaning a German Shepherd dog to use places that are not intended for this as a toilet include these things you should never do with your puppy in any case. Never poke its nose into what it has done. It is no use because nothing is disgusting for an animal in its waste products. The dog perceives them solely as a source of information. Physical punishment, for example, beating with a leash, should be completely prohibited. Such actions cannot lead to anything other than anger. Therefore, no canine expert would ever recommend them to you. For example, the dog pooped in the room while its owner was at work. If you punish your pup upon your return in the evening when it has completely forgotten about its misconduct, the dog will not understand what has happened. The unrighteous methods of punishment will evoke aggression and psycho problems in your little doggy, but will not improve the situation. If your baby dog knows that it should not relieve itself inside at once, it will never develop into a bad habit difficult to get rid of. Here are a few simple tips on how to potty train German Shepherd puppies more effectively. Take your puppy out for a potty run via one specific door in the house. When your puppy chooses the same designated point for doing its business, give it a treat. Invite your doggy outside and inside by using a leash. Your puppy needs to learn the rules for your happy relationships and comfort. Moreover, it is learning to trust you as its owner and friend. So you have to build up this trust with consistent and natural tips and commands. Shepherd dogs learn fast, but you have to take good care of them , reward them, and be patient. Be accurate about mistakes that can spoil your training process. Remember that severe punishment is inappropriate. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Add a comment 1 No one likes it when our pets do the business inside, but it seems and almost inevitable consequence of owning indoor pets. The best attitude to adopt is the no crying over spilt milk. Clean it up and work out why it happened and what can be done to change it. Which is what you're doing and your mother in law failed. Firstly, get her checked by a vet, it's possible she is not well. So not showing usual interest in food and having trouble with the toilet, these can be signs of a urinary tract infection or many other things. Secondly, whether or not she has a clean bill of health, it's time to revamp this dog's life. This dog needs positive reinforcement only, for the time being at least. A lot of play time with this dog will go a long way. This is going to take patience and time. If anyone lashes out at her it will set her back, particularly you, as her main handler. You need to earn her trust and she may always be wary of people, but she also may surprise you and come out of her shell if you work with her proactively. The best thing to do is find a treat that she does love. Dried liver treats are the universal treat dogs love. Reward her with verbal praise and pats with the food treat, so she associates your voice and attention as a positive thing. Take her out to dog parks and in the back yard if you have one and play with balls with her, allow her to escape from you in a fun way. If she's fearful, she will be comfortable getting distance between you both. Do not worry about her fetching or bringing a ball back, do not worry about calling her to come at this point. This is all emotional rebuilding, any obedience training can wait. You want your time with her to be all good, loving and lots of fun outside, snuggles inside as she trusts you more. You will find she is more likely to relieve herself when she is a distance from you. When you catch her going to the toilet outside, call out "Good girl! Use that same high pitched happy, a little excited voice. Tell her she's a "good girl" in your day to day dealings, with the treats and the pats, so remotely the "good girl" when she goes to the toilet will start to have meaning. Also vital, allow her plenty of room on the lead, forget about heeling, allow her to sniff and explore. If she feels constricted or frightened it will be harder for her to relieve herself, as she is on guard. Also consider buying a longer leash so she can move herself a longer distance from you to, hopefully, find a comfortable distance at which she can relieve herself. Slowly as you build trust with her, you will find she sniffs around and eventually goes to the toilet, keep the praise coming. Rinse and repeat. Don't remove the food rewards until she is toilet trained and then do so gradually. Let us know how you get on and post more questions as you need. Puppies Puppy accidents are inevitable and can also be the most frustrating part of welcoming a new dog into your household. However, with a little bit of patience and the commitment to establishing a routine, you should get your GSD puppy potty trained in no time. This article will dive into how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy as well as give you step-by-step instructions and tips for success. German Shepherds become aware of their ability to control their bodily functions at around 3 weeks old. However, it is best to start potty training as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually, this is around 8 weeks of age. So, a 2-month old can hold their pee for about 2 hours. To avoid accidents, take them for potty breaks once every hour. No, not all adult German Shepherds are potty trained. Nevertheless, the general process of training an adult is pretty much the same as potty training a puppy. The key is in setting your rules and establishing a routine from the beginning. Ideally, choose a relatively quiet place. German Shepherds, like many other dog breeds, are creatures of habit. Having a designated potty area and using it consistently is key to making this process work smoothly. When dogs eliminate, their urine and feces leave behind a unique scent. Smelling it will signal to their brains that it is, indeed, time to go potty. Step 2: Establish a schedule Just like having a consistent potty area, sticking to a regular schedule is essential. Take very young puppies to their designated potty area every hour. As they age and as they become familiar with the routine, you can lengthen the time between their potty breaks. Start by choosing a command and sticking with it. When your pup gets to their potty spot, say your chosen command. Then say your command again and praise your pup as soon as your pup has successfully eliminated. You can usually tell this by their body language. Keep doing that until you can just give the command and your pup knows to squat and poop. Step 4: Reinforce positive potty behavior Whenever your GSD pup potties successfully, give them a good time! Reward them especially when they potty on command. Make sure you give them lots of praises and maybe a good head scratch. Depending on what motivates them, reward them with food or play. Step 5: Give it time and patience Following these steps will give you the best chance of success, but expect it to take some time. Top Tips for Potty Training Success German Shepherds are easy to train , so by following the proper potty training steps, you should get your GSD pup housebroken in no time. Nevertheless, here are some tips that will set you up for success and allow you to get over this tedious phase much more quickly: Tip 1: Make crate training a priority Crate training offers plenty of critical benefits, especially to puppies. Apart from providing a private space where they can feel safe, the right crate can be an excellent housebreaking tool. Tip 2: Establish a routine German Shepherds tend to thrive on a daily routine, so try your best to make every day the same for them. It will also help you more accurately predict when they need to go potty. Try to limit feeding times to three times a day for puppies younger than 6 months. German Shepherds that are at least 6 months old can eat once in the morning and then again in the evening. Tip 4: Withhold water at night Dogs should always have access to clean drinking water, but free access to a water bowl will make potty training more difficult. Once housebroken, your dog can have free access to water. When you take your dog out to potty, try to keep yourself relaxed and only talk when giving the potty command. This will also make your post-potty reward extra special. Disciplining your puppy for a potty accident is likely to do more harm. It will lead to negative potty behavior like being afraid to eliminate in your presence as well as feeling anxiety over having to pee or poop. Just clean it up and hope you can both do better next time. If your dog is having accidents too regularly, you likely need to take your dog out more frequently to prevent it. This is also the best way to maintain proper hygiene and good health. Tip 8: Listen and observe Dogs have their own way of communicating and will be especially communicative when they need to go potty. Some dogs might whine while others paw at the door. You just need to establish a routine and give them time to develop full control over their bladder and bowels. As long as you are committed to following your protocol, you should be able to enjoy a fully housebroken dog soon enough.

Although certain health issues that Bulldogs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Bulldog include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bulldogs. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Bulldogs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BAS. This condition occurs in Bulldogs and other animals with shortened facial features that result in a pushed-in nose. Bulldogs with BAS may experience difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bulldogs are prone to joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause discomfort and mobility issues. Skin conditions. Bulldogs are susceptible to several skin conditions due to the folds in their skin that can trap dirt and moisture. Common skin conditions include eczema or atopic dermatitis, skin fold dermatitis, interdigital pyoderma, and chin folliculitis. Bulldogs may also develop demodectic mange, a skin disease caused by mites. Eye conditions. Bulldogs are prone to several eye conditions, including cherry eye, dry eye, corneal ulcers, eyelid and eyelash abnormalities, and persistent pupillary membranes. Bulldogs may also develop cataracts at a young age. This condition occurs when Bulldogs develop excessively thick skin on their legs or nose, which can be uncomfortable and lead to infections. Bulldogs may develop allergies to certain foods, medications, or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites. Allergies can cause skin irritation, itchiness, and gastrointestinal issues. Heat sensitivity. Bulldogs are prone to heat sensitivity due to their shortened airways and difficulty regulating body temperature. Bulldogs should be kept in a cool, shaded area during hot weather to prevent heat exhaustion. Gastrointestinal issues. Bulldogs may experience gastrointestinal issues such as colitis and chronic diarrhea, which can cause discomfort and dehydration. Bulldogs may develop deafness, which can be caused by genetics or chronic ear infections. Bulldogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain energy levels and stay active. Feeding a Bulldog an inadequate or low-quality diet can lead to a lack of energy, sluggishness, and even obesity. Bulldogs that are less active or prone to weight gain may require a lower-calorie diet, while more active Bulldogs may need a higher-calorie diet to fuel their activities. Feeding Bulldogs the right food and portions is essential to maintaining their activity level and overall health. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for English Bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult English Bulldogs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior English Bulldogs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Bulldog often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Bulldogs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: Bulldogs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint support ingredients. Since Bulldogs are prone to common conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, look for dog food that contains ingredients that support joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Limited ingredients. Bulldogs with skin allergies or sensitivities may benefit from dog food with limited ingredients, which can help identify potential allergens. Look for dog food that contains a single protein source and a limited number of carbohydrates. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Bulldogs with skin conditions may benefit from dog food that contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat. Look for dog food that contains fish oil, flaxseed, or other sources of these fatty acids. Easy-to-digest ingredients. Bulldogs with gastrointestinal issues may benefit from dog food that contains easy-to-digest ingredients, such as chicken, rice, or sweet potatoes. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives or fillers, which can be difficult for Bulldogs to digest. Limited sodium content. Chapter 2: The Reviews. Puppies with allergies Physical Traits That Will Impact Your Choice Having a very short muzzle can present some challenges with lifting up and munching on food. English Bulldogs can also struggle sometimes with swallowing their meals, and with taking in sufficient oxygen while they are busy eating. Bulldog puppies often also have teeth that are overly crowded together in their smaller mouths. Rounded, triangular or other unique-shaped kibble are ideal, avoid the traditional large square bits. And if your English Bulldog puppy is still having a tough time with chewing, mix dry kibble with some wet puppy food. Portion sizes Begin by following the amounts listed on the packaging. How often to feed English Bulldog puppies Little and often is always the best approach when feeding a puppy. I start my puppies off with four meals a day, spread evenly over the daylight hours. Best dried food for English Bulldog puppies These three brands make some of the best food for English Bulldog puppies. You will notice each food is enriched with special nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Those that your English Bulldog puppy needs to develop healthily in every way. Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy dry dog food Royal Canin creates tailored recipes for the unique needs of different puppy and dog breeds. This has the same unique S-shaped kibble. Best canned food for English Bulldog puppies The best food for English Bulldog puppy can end up being a combination of dry puppy food mixed with a bit of wet puppy food. It also makes learning how to grab and chew the dry kibble just a bit easier! For both puppies and adult dogs, wet food can be more palatable than dry kibble. It is designed in a complete and balanced nutrition puppy formula. A great choice to mix with the Purina Pro Plan dry kibble, to help your English Bulldog puppy learn how to grasp and chew solid food! There are no artificial ingredients or by-products in this wet food either. Packed with vitamins, lutein, taurine and fish oils, your English Bulldog puppy will have the nutritional support to make the extra work of eating worth it. This is a great choice to mix with Royal Canin Bulldog puppy dry food for a little extra mealtime incentive! Best food for English Bulldog puppies with food allergies Treating food allergies in puppies often requires two phases: allergy testing and a limited ingredient diet. One of the known triggers for food allergies in dogs is grain. So the best puppy food for Bulldogs who have food allergies is often a grain-free diet. Plus DHA and plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with digestive support and immune system health. The kibble is a unique triangle shape which can be easier for your puppy to grab hold of and pick up. Best food for English Bulldog puppies with sensitive stomachs Finding the best dog food for English Bulldog puppies can sometimes be a challenge because of their unique anatomy. This can sometimes lead to digestive disruption. A limited ingredient diet may ease tummy upset, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms of a sensitive stomach. There is very minimal processing and no artificial additives of any kind. The kibble is both round and rectangular, offering a nice mix of shapes to help your English Bulldog puppy grasp it more easily. There is no corn or beef, both of which can be a source of digestive upset in puppies. This limited ingredient puppy food comes in two recipes: chicken and oats or lamb and rice. Both recipes include plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin, calcium and phosphorus. As well as vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, bones and immune system. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. This food appeals to those who pay attention to where their food comes from. Halo contains fatty acids and antioxidants but no DHA like most puppy foods. This recipe also contains legumes peas , which are ingredients of concern in canine diets, as we mentioned in a previous review. However, as we mentioned earlier, those fancy terms are primarily for advertising, not an actual reflection of the nutritional quality of the food. Also, grain-free diets come with their own cause for concern due to the high legume content. Although pet food makers use various sources for protein, dogs tend not to care whether the meat in their diet is cage-free or what form it comes in whole, meal, or by-product. English Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which is not healthy for any dog but is particularly dangerous for this breed. Flat-faced dogs, including Bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues related to their unusual anatomy. Being overweight makes these problems worse. Most foods come with a suggested feeding guide, but to be safe, ask your vet to help you calculate the ideal daily calorie intake for your bulldog. Your food choice may be somewhat dictated by any emerging medical concerns your pup is experiencing. Allergies, with their accompanying skin and ear problems, are one of the most common issues. We listed several allergy-friendly diets on our list for this reason. Do Your Research Before You Buy A Puppy Yes, you want to feed your English Bulldog puppy a healthy diet, but food can only do so much if your little dog comes with a host of inherited medical conditions. Our best value pick, Purina One , is both cost-effective and convenient. Royal Canin Bulldog features breed-specific nutrition. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains is free of ingredients from China and loaded with nutritious extras perfect for the Bulldog. We hope our reviews of these puppy diets help you navigate the crowded landscape of the pet food industry as you search for the best option for your wrinkly baby dog. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Our team went out into the field looking for the best canine nutrition products in the world. Our winner for this year is Pupper, which topped our charts in terms of ingredient quality as well as science backed claims. English Bulldogs are an amazing breed. They were traditionally bred to herd cattle. Today, these stocky, gentle companions have become one of the top breeds for families. English Bulldogs are extremely affectionate and low-maintenance. They tend to love to cuddle up on the couch with you as you binge watch your favorite show. You may also be aware that your pup needs routine exercise, as this breed is prone to weight gain. Keep reading to learn about 25 of the best dog foods available for English bulldogs. Each of these foods are crafted using high quality ingredients that are not only nutritious, but also taste great. They also provide just the right amount of calories for weight management, a crucial factor for most medium breed dogs. Give your dog a wholesome meal every day of the week with Pupper Fuel Chicken Recipe. This all-natural grain-free food is loaded with nutrients to keep your dog energized, happy, and at a lowered risk of common health conditions like diabetes, heart problems, and obesity. Pupper Fuel is made with 13 active ingredients, all of which provide functional support for your dog's health. Chicken is a great source of lean protein that builds muscle and strength. Apples are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants. The addition of ginger provides gingerol, a compound that offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Calories: The calorie content will vary depending on the recipe. For more information, please visit wefeedraw. Price: Get this nutritious, minimally processed dog food at wefeedraw. The company ensures customer satisfaction and offers assistance through their dedicated customer service team. An English Bulldog's diet should consist of a well-balanced, high-quality dog food that meets their unique nutritional needs, considering their size, energy levels, and potential breed-specific health concerns. We Feed Raw provides superior raw dog food made from human-grade ingredients, including a variety of proteins like beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and pork. Their selection consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables, formulated to deliver a balanced and comprehensive diet suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds. Pure and Simple, this dog food is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, We Feed Raw dog food delivers clean and wholesome nutrition that your pet will adore. Breed-Specific Blend: We Feed Raw dog food is formulated to cater to the distinct nutritional requirements of English Bulldogs, ensuring a well-rounded diet tailored to their needs. Their dog food for English Bulldogs is uniquely formulated to provide balanced and complete nutrition for your furry friend. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult recipe is made with highly digestible proteins, high quality carbohydrates, and the optimal amount of fiber to support healthy digestion. This means less gas and less stool odor. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult is also fortified with nutrients that support skin, coat, bone, and joint health. Each bite delivers omega fatty acids, vitamin E, taurine, and calcium along with other nutrients like B vitamins, niacin, and trace minerals. This natural, grain-free dog food gives your dog the fuel and nutrients he needs to make every day his best day. Each serving is loaded with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and naturally nutritious ingredients. Merrick Texas Beef and Sweet Potato is enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to protect and support joint health, along with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for skin, coat, and heart health. It's also fortified with a blend of B vitamins, folic acid, and health-boosting minerals. This recipe doesn't contain any poultry ingredients, wheat, soy, corn, or gluten. It's also crafted without any artificial ingredients, including preservatives. This adult kibble is made with roasted bison and roasted venison, providing your dog highly digestible energy so that he's ready for walks, fetch, and every fun activity in between. Each serving also provides nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These foods are high in antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients that nourish your pup. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free is also made with a blend of omega fatty acids, which work together to support a shiny coat and healthy skin. Because gut health is so important, this food is enriched with species-specific probiotics. The proprietary strain of K9 probiotics is specially developed for dogs to support digestive and immune health. It's made without high fat, high calorie ingredients, which help to keep your bulldog at a healthy weight. The recipe starts with deboned chicken along with whole grains and fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. Each serving offers health-boosting carrots, cranberries, brown rice, blueberries, peas, and alfalfa. It also contains the brand's exclusive LifeSource Bits, which offer a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support healthy oxidative balance and immune health. This veterinarian formulated food is proof that simple ingredients are the best way to nourish and support your dog's needs. The recipe is formulated with a single meat protein chicken , along with two types of potatoes and antioxidant rich blueberries. It's fortified with essential nutrients, including calcium for strong bones, vitamin E for skin and coat health, and glucosamine to keep your pup's joints free from aches and pains. This food is made with nine simple food ingredients that keep your pup satisfied and nourished. The recipe doesn't contain any grain, wheat, corn, or soy, which means no upset stomach! Instead, it's made with chicken, sweet potatoes, alfalfa meal, and fiber-rich garbanzo beans. Added probiotics support your pooch's gut health while also supporting a strong immune system. The recipe is crafted with lamb, menhaden fish meal, flaxseed, tomatoes, peas, and other wholesome ingredients. This adult dog food is supported by essential nutrients, including glucosamine, taurine, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients encourage healthy digestion, a strong immune system, and healthy bones and joints. This all natural food is made with drool-worthy bison and beef, along with a mix of fruits and vegetables that will have your dog counting down the time until his next meal. Each serving is packed with lean protein, peas, flaxseed, apples, carrots, blueberries, cranberries, and spinach. These ingredients are natural sources of omega fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free is enriched with taurine for heart health along with vitamin C for a strong immune system and vitamin E for skin and coat health. This grain-free food is also fortified with B vitamins, zinc, calcium, vitamin E, and probiotics. It's made with a blend of lean protein, functional superfoods, probiotics, and other nutrients that support immune, gut, and joint health. Each serving provides wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, carrots, blueberries, and cranberries. To ensure your pup is getting all the nutritional support he needs, this Solid Gold formula is fortified with a blend of vitamins and minerals, including choline, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E, and copper. This all natural food is made with wild Pacific salmon that's caught using sustainable fishing practices. Salmon is naturally rich in omega fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, and potassium. While some dogs thrive eating grain-free food, it's not the best option for all canines. These grains are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other health-boosting nutrients. It doesn't contain any wheat, soy, corn, peas, legumes, potatoes, or meat by-products. It's also free from artificial flavors or preservatives. This holistically balanced food provides the nutrition that your dog needs to reach and maintain optimal health. It's made with high-quality protein from chicken meal, along with healthy fats and whole grains. The addition of blueberries and guaranteed amounts of vitamin C and vitamin E ensure that your canine has a strong immune system. This natural food also contains healthy fats, including omega 3 fatty acids, along with whole grains that are rich in B vitamins, fiber, protein, zinc, iron, and other minerals. These ingredients also provide sustained energy to keep your pup going all day long. This food is specially formulated to meet the nutrient needs of medium and large breed dogs at all life stages. It's made with a holistic formula that features an optimal balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. It contains a healthy dose of omega fatty acids, which promote skin, coat, and joint health. This natural dog food also contains DHA for brain support, along with carrots, apples, peas, and blueberries that are naturally high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It's made without wheat, corn, soy, or other low quality ingredients that don't nourish your pup's health. This high quality kibble offers complete and balanced nutrition with a blend of wholesome ingredients. Each bite will leave your pup fulfilled, offering a mixture of venison, peas, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed. The addition of fish oil provides health-boosting omega fatty acids, which protect and nourish your dog's skin and coat. Give your dog the nutrition he needs with Orijen Original Grain-Free. Each bite is loaded with whole prey nutrition, including nutrient-rich meat, organs, cartilage, and bone. Orijen Original Grain-Free is also made with other whole ingredients, including peas, navy beans, pears, apples, butternut squash, and kelp. Orijen Original Grain-Free kibble is freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor that your dog is sure to go crazy over. It's also fortified with zinc, vitamin E, probiotics, and even botanical ingredients like juniper berries and rosehips. This light adult dog food is made with fewer calories but doesn't cut corners on flavor or nutrition. Your pup won't even know that he's eating light food! It's formulated with pasture-raised lamb for quality protein, along with superfoods like pumpkin, chia seed, kale, blueberries, dried kelp, spinach, and others. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is also made with wholesome grains, including grain sorghum, brown rice, and millet. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is enriched with species-specific probiotics. This healthy bacteria supports healthy digestion as well as a strong immune system. Each serving also contains prebiotics and antioxidants to give your pup a daily boost of wellness. This grain-free kibble is made with easy to digest ingredients that won't cause tummy problems or other issues. Instead, it's formulated with omega-rich salmon, along with nutrient-dense carbs like pumpkin and sweet potato. The active nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber included in this food support your dog's immune, digestive, and overall well-being. This food doesn't contain any low-grade ingredients, including artificial flavors, poultry by-product meal, or preservatives. It's made without grain, wheat, corn, or soy, so you can feel extra good knowing that this food protects and nourishes your best friend. This food is made with animal-based proteins and offers an optimal amount of amino acids and other nutrients to keep your pup strong, healthy, and thriving. Not only is this kibble made with chicken and other meat-based ingredients, it also contains low-glycemic whole grains like flaxseed and millet, along with whole produce like apples and blueberries. Each of these ingredients are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that protect your dog's well-being. Each serving is fortified with nutrients like taurine, copper, zinc, potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin E. With this high quality, grain-powered dog food, you can nourish your canine's mind and body so that you both can enjoy many more years together. This kibble is manufactured in the USA and is formulated with an optimal blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that keep your canine energized and nourished. This nutrient-rich dog food is made with dual animal proteins from chicken and pork meal, which are flavorful and packed with plenty of muscle-supporting protein. It also contains whole grain and fiber from oatmeal and brown rice, along with peas and flaxseed. Each serving contains ideal levels of glucosamine for joint health, vitamin E for skin and coat health, calcium for strong bones, and taurine for cardiovascular health. This grain-free food is made with high-quality protein and field grown vegetables that are natural sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Each piece of heart-shaped kibble is made with chicken, turkey, potatoes, apples, and carrots. This dry food is also made with flaxseed, which is not only high in fiber, but is a great source of protein, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. The natural recipe is loaded with glucosamine, chondroitin, biotin, amino acids, vitamin A, and probiotics for optimal digestive and gut health. This holistic dog food is made with clean, easy to digest ingredients that nourish your pooch with every bite. This kibble is formulated with responsibly raised chicken, along with other high quality ingredients including chicken liver, oat groats, flaxseed, along with fruits and vegetables like blueberries, sweet potatoes, and peas. Your dog's skin and coat will be healthier than ever with optimal levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. This wholesome kibble is also made with thiamine, zinc, copper, calcium, vitamin E, taurine, and other health-boosting compounds. It doesn't contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives, which means that you can feed with total confidence. While it's specially formulated for overweight dogs, this dry kibble doesn't skimp on flavor or nutrition. In fact, this food is made with a blend of 15 different superfoods, including whole chia seed, dried kale, dried spinach, dried pumpkin, dried apples, dried blueberries, and others. All ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers across the globe and are thoroughly tested for safety and quality purposes. This weight management kibble is made without any GMOs and also doesn't contain any wheat, corn, soy, chicken by-product meal, or peas. This dog food is formulated with quality ingredients that you know and can trust. This formula is designed to support all life stages for dogs of all sizes and breeds, including English Bulldogs. Inception Fish Recipe is formulated with animal and fish protein that supports your dog's lean muscle. The combination of whitefish and catfish offers health-boosting nutrients like protein, omega fatty acids, B vitamins, copper, phosphorus, and others. Each serving also contains fiber-rich oats, along with millet, milo, and ground flaxseeds. Inception Fish Recipe is made without wheat, corn, soy, chicken, or grain. It also doesn't contain low quality fillers, including legumes, potato, and harmful ingredients like artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This balanced recipe is made with minimally processed ingredients that help your canine to thrive and be his very best. This complete and wholesome nutrition will keep your pup fit, happy, and healthy. Each bite is packed with tasty meat, fish, and more than 20 superfoods like carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, blueberries, cranberries, and blackberries. This adult dog food is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion and immune function. It's also formulated with L-carnitine for heart health and fat burning to keep your English Bulldog in tip-top shape. It also doesn't contain artificial flavors or preservatives. This adult dog food is ideal for pups with and without food sensitivities. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. Final thoughts Choosing the right dog food for your English bulldog is easier than you may think. No matter which food you choose for your bulldog, you can have total confidence that your pup is getting all of the nourishment he needs with every meal he eats. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is very important to keep in mind that English bulldogs are somewhat different to most breeds. And correct feeding technics are of utmost importance during and after their full development. Your English bulldog puppy does not know anything about nutrition. He only knows what tastes good. It is up to you to know what and how to feed your buddy, so he will get everything he needs to stay healthy and happy. Best Diet for English Bulldogs Best Nutrients for English Bulldog Puppies Your English bulldog puppy needs proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals for uptime growth and health Your puppy uses proteins for growth and repair of muscles, bones and other bodily tissues. They are also used for production of antibodies, enzymes and hormones. Vitamins and minerals participate in muscle and nerve function, bone growth, healing, metabolism and fluid balance. English bulldogs also need plenty of fresh, clean water. Adequate water intake also helps prevent formation of urinary stones, which is a potential problem for this breed. Food Brands for English Bulldogs We recommend to new English bulldog families to avoid drastic changes in the food of the puppies. We recommend the puppy keeps using the same food the breeder used before delivery. In our case, we like to use Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy. We have used several other brands over the years. And, so far, Royal Canin has worked great for our puppies and adults. When feeding our English bulldog puppy, we take into consideration several factors. Such as the amount of protein and fat they should receive in the first few weeks of age. There are other brands in the market that may provide the same or similar amount of protein and fat. However, you should consider important things such as ingredients of the food, allergies it might cause. As professional breeders of English bulldogs, we always let our clients know about the food we give to our puppies. In addition to other supplements that we use. That way, the new owners of the English bulldog puppies can continue with the same process. But, we do understand that a lot of times people may decide to go a different route. Both for the type of food and feeding technics. Sometimes, based on what they may consider, it is correct or better for their English bulldogs. Or perhaps after receiving veterinarian advice. Our recommendation is to continue to use the one we use. Feeding Frequency for English bulldogs The number of times you feed an English bulldog puppy is also very important. The younger the puppy is, the more often one has to feed the puppy. For breeders, it is a lot of work due. Mainly due to the fact that we have to care for the puppies since day one. We have to rigorously continue feeding them at least every two 2 hours. Usually, when we release our puppies; they will be at least eight 8 weeks old. And they will be eating solid food. At this stage, it is recommended to feed the puppies three 3 times a day. Once in the morning, afternoon, and early evening. Sometimes due to a matter of schedule or advice from friends, breeders or veterinarians; families will feed the puppy two 2 times a day. This will make things a little easy for the family training the English bulldog. If this is the case, the correct amount of food should be provided to the puppy. Always based on their body weight as well as the age of the puppy. A feeding guide or table should be available to you on the bag of food you use. In most cases it is recommended for an English bulldog to be on the puppy formula for the first year of life and then a gradual change to an adult formula containing the same nutrients should be given. It is important to keep in mind that if you as an English bulldog puppy owner encounter any issues with your dog such as allergies or other common illnesses among bulldogs, then veterinarian advice should be taken. Should I give supplements to English Bulldog Puppies? This food will provide the puppy with the nutrients needed to have a long, healthy life. But as breeders, we use other things to supplement the diet of our English bulldogs so that we can keep them away as much as possible from common illnesses among them. The use of the right type of supplements from an early stage in the development of the dog is key when raising English bulldogs than with a lot of other breeds. This is due to the fact that English bulldogs have a weaker skeletal system and a lower immune system than other breeds. Having the presence of supplements will help the puppy to develop into a healthier adult. Eggs, cod liver oil, chicken breast, some vegetables are also great for them. Along with the food we use, we also recommend the multi vitamin NuVet. It helps with a lot of the common issues the English bulldog breed encounters during their life. For detail information on NuVet and how to order instructions, please visit our website and click on the link on top that says NuVet. If you think you still have questions about the right food to feed your English bulldog puppy or the correct supplement or multi vitamins you can use; please feel free to contact us. Remember that English bulldogs are the best breed in the world; therefor quality food, treats and supplements are ideal when having them as pets. Share this post.

They have a great sense of humor and are quite cuddly, considering their stocky selves to be right at home on your lap—even when they reach up to 80 pounds! They love their people, they love to please, and are extremely intelligent and loyal," says breeder Marc Hatten, owner of Mountain Crest Boxers in Huson, Mont. Boxers have a short, glossy coat —usually a fawn, brindle, or white color —that's soft to the touch, often with flecks of white across the chest, face, and paws. His square head is a unique feature, lifted high above a strong back and tapered hindquarters. Most boxers have broad, black faces, also known as masks. Their ears create a floppy frame around their masks, although some dog owners have traditionally cropped the ears so they stand up. Though this is controversial; according to the American Veterinary Medical Association , cropping is almost always done for cosmetic reasons and has no proven health benefits. Don't let the downward frown of the jowls fool you—they're happy dogs! Because boxers weigh between 50—80 pounds and top off at nearly 2 feet high at the shoulder, they're considered medium- to large-sized dogs. Temperament While your boxer is a puppy, introduce him to as many adults, children, and other pets as you can so he develops strong connections and learns good manners. Boxers can be suspicious around new people and animals, so the earlier they interact with other pets and families at a dog park or in the neighborhood, the better. A boxer dog's temperament is naturally friendly and fun without being overly jumpy, barky, or excitable—once they graduate from their awkward puppy phase, that is! They reach full maturity in about three years, which is longer than other dog breeds. So positive reinforcement training is a must to help properly channel a young boxer's abundant energy. Fortunately, they're easy to train and eager to please, so they respond well to cues and leash training. Boxers dislike routine, so teaching them new tricks from time to time keeps their curious minds engaged. Hatten recommends two essential reasons for crate training boxer puppies : to curb undesirable habits caused by boredom and to provide a sense of security. This provides a safe retreat as he adjusts to new people and surroundings, also referred to as a "decompression period. Some experts recommend that the crate—with door open—be placed in an area where your new companion can easily see you and approach for reassurance whenever he needs to, reinforcing the new bond. Ask your veterinarian or a certified trainer for more tips to ease your boxer into the family. Living Needs Owning a boxer means you want a dog that can keep up with your lifestyle and be a true canine friend. They wouldn't be well-suited to an individual or family that couldn't provide these basic activities and socialization aspects. It's not unusual for boxers to need at least 30 minutes—or more—of exercise and dedicated play each day. Because of their dutiful personalities and intelligence, they've been trained to work in K9 units with police, as messengers during WWII, cattle wranglers, and guides for people with visual impairments. So with this type of energy and attention to detail, it's no wonder they thrive with people who are active in the great outdoors and enjoy running , hiking , camping , enjoying family outings in the park, working on farms, and exploring other environments that provide healthy engagement. American boxer dogs have lean, muscular bodies designed for movement and short, easy-care coats, so they're ready to go when you are. A mature boxer can also be a trusty and loyal companion for an apartment dweller or senior citizen who enjoys daily walks and has a fenced-in yard or accessible park area that allows for plenty of fetch time. Care Clean your boxer's teeth every day if possible to prevent tartar buildup. Fortunately, a specific doggie toothbrush and toothpaste makes this an easy task. Ask your veterinarian for tips. Sparkling teeth and healthy gums also help reduce drooling. Boxers don't drool as much as other breeds, but slobber can happen regularly depending on the size and shape of your dog's nose and jaw. Keep his coat sleek and shiny by brushing him a couple of times a week with a hound glove or rubber curry-brush. They don't shed a lot , but regular brushing helps control any fur that does fly. Because boxers are generally clean, they only need a bath about once a month, and that's a good time to trim their nails and clean their ears , too. Some boxer dogs have deeper facial folds than others, so you might need to wipe these clean with a damp washcloth, especially after a vigorous romp outside nosing through dirt. Health Because boxers have short coats, they often need sweaters or jackets to protect them in cold weather. They're also more sensitive to hot temperatures. They don't sweat , and their snub noses and fleshy mouths can't provide adequate cooling from panting like other dogs. So if it's warm out, time walks in the early morning or late evening when the sun isn't at its hottest. If you notice your boxer is a bit overheated , apply chilled water to his ears, belly, and genitals, where blood vessels are closer to the skin. Because they're so playful, they might also enjoy a quick cool down by frolicking in a small wading pool placed in a shady backyard spot. According to Upstate Veterinary Specialities , particular boxer health problems include cardiomyopathy—specifically, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy ARVC , which appears in some dogs 5—7 years old. This is a genetic disease that occurs in nearly 40 percent of boxers. The heart muscle is gradually replaced by fibrous, fatty tissue, and causes an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms of ARVC include fainting, shortness of breath, and difficulty exercising. Unfortunately, some dogs don't present any symptoms of ARVC at all, and may die suddenly because of it. According to the American Boxer Club ABC , other potential medical conditions include hip dysplasia , degenerative myelopathy—a progressive disease that affects the hindquarters and spinal cord— thyroid issues , and tumors. When you're looking for a boxer puppy, ask specific testing questions of your breeder. In the 19th century, German and Belgian breeders created bullenbeissers from other dogs of that line, including the mastiff and English bulldog , and used them as large game hunters and for cattle control. Further refinement of that breed revealed a sleeker type of dog—the boxer. Some canine historians believe the name boxer comes from a German reference for the bullenbeisser's role in slaughterhouses—boxl—while others say it describes how the dogs use their front paws in play. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the boxer breed in .A boxer named Sigurd was born in and sold to a California kennel when he was 5 years old, according to the ABC. He and his offspring were the first boxers in the U. Fun Facts American boxer dogs are known for their goofy personalities. They also have a special wiggle frequently referred to as a "kidney bean"—they curve into a semi-circle shape and spin around when really excited! Boxers are favorite companions of many famous folks. Actress Jennifer Aniston, who usually has at least two or three pooch pals, adopted a pit bull-boxer mix in named Sophie. Actress Jessica Biel, along with pop music sensation husband Justin Timberlake, have frequently been snapped by paparazzi while on walks with their boxers, Buckley and Brennan. Was this page helpful? And, in general, canine paws are rather sturdy. This said, most Boxers need some regular care to keep the paws in top shape. In addition, you may find that certain issues may develop, which require treatment. The digital pads and the metacarpal pad work as shock absorbers; these are the areas of the paw that a Boxer mainly uses for typical walking. The paws are the most durable but not indestructible area on a dog. As opposed to 3 layers of skin, there are 5. From inner to outer, these are: stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, strtum lucidum, and stratum corneum. This will be more so for adult Boxers than Boxer pups. And this is because walking on certain surfaces over time like pavement or cement will gradual flatten the conical shapes into… well, not quite so conical. This said, walking on a variety of hard surfaces over time will strengthen the paw pad surfaces and make them more durable, despite the papillae being flattened. In short, yes, but do not go overboard. The paw pads are made up of skin, fat, and collagen. So, the paws of a Boxer puppy that has not been outside much, or an adult that only mainly walks on grass and indoor surfaces, will be rather vulnerable. Soft-padded paws are much more prone to cuts and sores. Long term conditioning walks over different terrains. Note that there is no reason to have your Boxer run; walking works just fine. Regular nail trimming. And, if your Boxer has moderate to severe issues with soft paws, zinc supplements may help with this. About Nail Trimming How often the nails need to be trimmed depends somewhat, but not fully, on how active a Boxer dog is, and over what type of surfaces he walks. While nails will get filed down to come extent due to walking over certain surfaces, this alone is rarely sufficient. Natural filing is often jagged, which can cause the nails to split super painful or snag on carpeting. Most Boxer dogs need their nails filed or clipped every 5 to 7 weeks. If you can hear the nails a click, click over the tile or hardwood floors , this means that your Boxer is overdue. You can do this yourself; personally, we like electronic grinders like the Dremel PT 4. But, clippers work as well. Alternatively, if your Boxer puts up a big fuss or if doing the nails makes you nervous quite common , you can have your vet or groomer do this for you. With the cold, the fatty layers in the pads act as insulation. In addition, canines have a system of blood vessels that quickly circulate blood from the lower extremities up to the main body where it is warmed, and then back down again. The Boxer has something special in common with these animals? This particular type of circulatory network that dogs have is very similar to what is found in other cold-weather animals including penguins this occurs in their beaks , cold-water dolphins this occurs in their fins , and arctic foxes this occurs in their paws as it does with dogs. Studies have shown that the canine paws can tolerate temperatures as low as F. That said, frostbite should not be the line in the sand; exposure to frozen surfaces can quickly lead to overly dry paws, when can spiral rather fast into cracking. With heat, the thresholds are what can be easily seen in the summertime on a variety of surfaces. For canines, F is the pain threshold, but with no permanent damage. A temperature of F will cause burns, permanent damage, and scarring after 60 seconds. And at F there will be rapid burns and blistering. This may be sand, small pebbles, or other outdoor matter. The main element here, in regard to paws, is hot walking surfaces. So, how hot are walking surfaces? It really depends on where you live, if the sun is shining or not, and the type of surface. Marcia Breithaupt of Liberty Pet Services did a really helpful study on how hot surfaces get there, and we refer to this a lot. Grass stayed safe, only reaching a max temperature of F on a 95 F day at 2 PM. Cement reached a painful F at 2 PM. It cooled down to a safer F by 4 PM. Red brick heated up quickly; it reached F by 12 noon. Asphalt blacktop pavement was the worst. By noon it was F and from 2 to 3 PM it was a shocking F. What can you do? You may be surprised at how this works, and in what ways this is beneficial, and we cover this in care tip 5. There are several things that can really do a number on the paws in the winter. The top 4 issues are: Ice melt chemicals. Weeks or months in, you may notice your puppy or dog tending to his paws more due to irritation he's feeling, and the paw pads may appear overly dry or have cracking or sores. This pulls the toes apart, stretches the skin, and pinches at short hairs. As you can imagine, it is painful and the skin can rip in this very sensitive area. Contact with frozen surfaces. The typical canine family member rarely gets frostbite on their paws. But, weeks and months of walking on cold or frozen surfaces can lead to overly dry skin. While this will cause a Boxer to lick or chew at his paws, it can easily spiral into splits, cracks, and open sores. Traction issues. Fortunately, a good paw wax can help prevent all 4 of these top paw concerns, and we dive into that next. A good one will allow the paws to breath. As you may know, dogs sweat through their paws and a bit through their noses, and most extra moisture is expelled via panting. A good paw wax does not interfere with the sweat glands. Helps protect the paws from chemicals, snowballing, and cold surfaces in the winter. Helps keep the paws healthy and in good shape all year round. If damage has already occurred, can heal drying and cracking, and even minor sores. Helps a dog with traction. To sum it up, using a paw wax on a regular basis can prevent your Boxer's paws from getting beat up and looking and feeling that way. Our recommended paw waxes are coming up ahead. Dietary zinc is well known to improve the health of paw pads, nails, and coat texture. And omega fish oil helps keep both skin and coat healthy. It was originally developed in Canada for sled dogs. This absorbs quickly about 2 minutes , allows the paws to breath, and is non-toxic if your Boxer happens to lick at it. In the winter, twice per week is often best. For most Boxers, at night when your guy or gal is about to fall asleep is a good time to do the application. If you do not see the images below, try a refresh. And on mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. Check out what can happen if you don't buckle your Boxer up, and how a seat for a pup, or a belt for an adult can make car trips much more pleasant. The Best Shampoos for Boxers - What to use to keep the skin and coat super healthy, and specialty shampoos for certain issues that may be happening. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The Boxer's body is compact and powerful. The head is in proportion with the body. The muzzle is short and blunt with a distinct stop. The nose is large and black with very open nostrils. The jaw has an under bite. The eyes are dark brown. The ears are set high, either cropped or kept natural. When cropped they are trained to stand up on the head, tapering to a point. When left natural the ears are thin, falling forward, lying close to the head. The neck should be round, strong and muscular, without a dewlap. The muscular front legs are straight and parallel when viewed from the front. The back legs are well muscled. The tail is set high and usually docked. The AKC severely penalizes a natural tail, while most of Europe has outlawed this practice. Dewclaws are usually removed. The short, smooth, close-fitting coat comes in fawn, brindle, tan, mahogany and black often with white markings. Boxers also come in a white coat that cannot be registered with some clubs. Temperament The Boxer is happy, high-spirited, playful, curious and energetic. Highly intelligent, eager and quick to learn, the Boxer is a good dog for competitive obedience. It is constantly on the move and bonds very closely with the family. Loyal and affectionate, Boxers are known for the way they get along so well with children. A well brought-up and properly socialized Boxer will also get along with his own kind and other household pets such as cats. Animals such as rodents , ducks , chickens and other farm birds may be too tempting, however, they can be taught to "leave it" but it is still not recommended they be left alone with them. It has been said that the name Boxer came from the way the Boxer likes to use his front paws for just about everything. If you have ever watched a Boxer go about his business you may have noticed the way he paws at his toys, food bowl and you for that matter, in a very playful cat-like way. While participating the sport of Schutzhund, Boxers are known to jump up and use their front paws as if they are boxing. They are very clownish and playful. The Boxer's nature is to protect you, your family, and your home. Known visitors will be welcomed. They are always keen to work and play. Boxers need lots of human leadership. Teach the Boxer not to be boisterous and especially not to jump up at people. This breed is noted for courage and makes a great guard dogs. Boxers have a wide use in military and police work. An excellent watchdog, the Boxer will restrain an intruder in the same way a Bulldog does. They are extremely athletic, sometimes even in their old age. This dog needs to go on a daily pack walk. Daily mental and physical exercise is paramount. Without it, the Boxer will become high strung. This breed requires a dominant owner. Training should start young and be firm and consistent. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader; lines are clearly defined. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way your relationship can be a success. Meek Boxer owners will find their dogs to become stubborn. If they do not take you seriously they will be sneaky, demanding, boisterous and hard to control. Teach the Boxer dominating another dog is not acceptable. Any signs of dominance need to be immediately corrected by the owners in a calm, but firm, confident way. Height, Weight Height: Males 22 - 25 inches 56 - 63 cm Females 21 - 24 inches 53 - 61 cm Weight: Males 60 - 70 pounds 27 - 32 kg Females 53 - 65 pounds 24 - 29 kg Health Problems Some major concerns are cardiomyopathy and other heart problems, sub-aortic stenosis and thyroid. Can be prone to skin and other allergies. Sometimes prone to epilepsy. From age eight on they are more likely to get tumors than other breeds. Prone to cancer. Boxers are highly prone to mast cell tumors. Prone to arthritis , hip dysplasia, back and knee issues. These dogs may drool and snore. May have excessive flatulence, especially when fed something other than their own dog food. Some white Boxers are prone to deafness. Living Conditions Boxers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Boxers are temperature sensitive, getting easily overheated and chilling very quickly. Exercise An active, athletic breed, Boxers need daily work or exercise, as well as a long brisk, daily walk. They also enjoy fetching a ball or other sessions of play. Life Expectancy.

The mother was imported from Finland and the father was imported from Poland, both from top show kennels within their respective countries. Both parents are stunning examples of the breed and can be seen. They conform with the breed standard, and both come from a long line of standard champions and health tested dogs. A lot of research and effort went into importing the parents of these exceptional puppies and we are so lucky to now have them as part of our family. They have the best temperaments one could wish for, very friendly with that breed typical clownesque nature. Puppies have been cherished since birth, so much care and attention has gone into their upbringing, by way of nutrition, handling and socialisation, no expense was spared to ensure the best start for them. Currently there is one male and one female available and are already displaying excellent character with big ambitions to lead a mischievous life. They are IKC registered with pedigree, vet checked, wormed, microchipped and have received their first vaccinations. If you are looking for a new addition to your family, I would be happy to have a chat with you about the possibility of reserving a pup. No private numbers will be answered and please no time wasters. Thanks for looking. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.

This is the point between their shoulder blades. They are likely to continue to increase in size and weight until they are around years of age. Unlike other pure breeds, there are some quite considerable variations within the German Shepherd family. This can have an impact on their color, pattern, and body style, as well as their size and rate of maturation. The most significant distinction of German Shepherd size is between those that were bred for showing as opposed to working. With the former, there was a focus on the look and gait of the dog over its personality and general health. In some countries, including the States, these dogs have exaggerated rear angulation, which can lead to hip problems — not ideal for a working breed. Photo by elisabetta ventura on Unsplash Of the two, the working dogs tend to be larger with bigger bones, heads, and an all-round more athletic build. Although again, there are variations between these depending on the country they were bred in and the tasks they were required to do. Sex also plays a crucial role in size. Female dogs will be at the lower end of the scale of the dimensions given in the above chart 22 — 24 inches , while males will be closer to the upper limits 24 — 26 inches. German Shepherd Size Charts and Growth Patterns Like most other dogs, German Shepherds have their most significant growth period in the first 6 months of their lives, achieving more than two-thirds of their adult height by this time. As is common to larger breeds, their growth will significantly slow after that. They will reach their adult height a little before their adult weight. Our interactive puppy growth chart and calculator has more information on that. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. While there are some variations depending on the gender of the animal, generally speaking, a full-grown German Shepherd will stand somewhere between 22 — 26 inches and weigh around 50 to 90 pounds. This is the average German Shepherd size. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Your German Shepherd will have acquired much of their adult size and weight by the time they have hit their first year. However, they will continue to grow, usually reaching their full adult size somewhere between 18 months to 2 years of age. The age of maturity, though, is somewhat dependent on the specific type of German Shepherd that you have. Eastern European varieties, for instance, are particularly late bloomers and are unlikely to reach their full size much before the age of three. Larger dogs will also naturally take longer to achieve their full size. A female German Shepherd might be expected to get there at 24 months, whereas for a male, it could be closer to .At this age, they are reaching the end of their rapid growth period, and you will notice their growth slows down significantly after this milestone. With German Shepherd size, there is quite a bit of variation depending on the type you have and what they were initially bred for. All this information can help you to anticipate their adult size, and our calculator can get you the rest of the way there. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. July 25, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Typically, there are four main size categories for dogs: 1. X-Small or Toy Breeds: Toy breeds are typically smaller in size, often weighing less than 12 pounds. Examples are Chihuahua and Toy Poodles. Small Breeds: Small dog breeds generally weigh between 12 to 22 pounds. Examples include French Bulldogs and Yorkshire Terriers. Medium Breeds: Medium dog breeds usually weigh between 22 to 57 pounds. Breeds like Doberman Pinschers and Siberian Huskies fall into this category. Large Breeds: Large dog breeds typically weigh between 57 to 99 pounds. Giant Breeds: Giant dogs can weigh over 99 pounds. These factors include: 1. Breed: Different dog breeds have specific size ranges. Smaller breeds tend to reach their full size earlier than larger breeds. Nutrition: Proper nutrition is crucial for healthy growth. You can use our dog dood calculator to estimate the right serving size for your furry friend in order to avoid obesity or malnutrition. Regular exercise and check-ups with a vet ensure any health issues are addressed promptly. Gender: In some breeds, male dogs tend to be larger than female dogs. Spaying or Neutering: Spaying and neutering can increase the likelihood of puppy weight gain if their diet is not adjusted accordingly. The decrease in sex hormones makes way to reduced energy needs, often necessitating a decrease in food portions to avoid getting overweight. Some puppies may experience growth spurts, and their final size may differ slightly from the breed standard. Additionally, some dog breeds have longer growth periods and may continue to develop and fill out for a couple of years after reaching their full height. It starts from the neonatal stage as helpless puppies and progresses through crucial socialization, juvenile, adolescent, adult, and senior stages. Proper care, nutrition, and training during these phases are vital for their physical and behavioral well-being, ensuring they grow into happy and healthy companions. What will be the Weight of your Dog Knowing the body weight of your dog offers several benefits. Just follow these simple steps: 1. FAQs How big is a 33 lbs dog? Generally, a 33 lbs dog would be considered a medium-sized dog, but it can vary depending on its breed or mixed breeds. For example, some medium dog breeds that typically reach a maximum height of 25 inches to the shoulders include Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and French Bulldogs. The average brain-to-body ratio for dogs is about , indicating their intelligence and cognitive abilities. How big will my puppy grow if he is 8 lbs in 10 weeks? According to our dog size calculator, your 8 lb puppy might grow to approximately 41 lbs by 12 months, but actual adult weight and size can vary based on dog breed and several factors. At which age do puppies stop growing? Generally, a puppy stop growing and reach their full adult weight and size between 9 months to 1. However, the exact age at which a puppy stops growing can vary depending on the dog breed and environmental factors. Smaller dog breeds tend to mature earlier, often around months, while large dog breeds may continue growing and filling out until 18 months or even up to 2 years of age. Conclusion Knowing the future adult weight of your puppy with the puppy weight calculator allows for proper nutrition, space planning, and training. It helps make travel arrangements, monitor their health, and build a strong bond with your pet. Editorial-Team WAF editorial team is a passionate and diverse group that includes animal experts, researchers, writers, editors, and devoted pet owners. Our main goal is to share valuable insights about the animal kingdom and strengthen the special bond between humans and animals. Our eclectic and ever-growing team is committed to bringing you accurate and informative content to promote animal welfare and foster positive interactions with the wonderful world of animals. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore and celebrate the beauty and importance of our animal companions! Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. Your German Shepherd Dog will grow very fast in its first 46 weeks. At 46 weeks, your German Shepherd Dog will have reached 95 percent of its adult weight. Then your German Shepherd Dog will slowly stop adding more weight. The above discussion is general, and it applies to both male and female German Shepherd Dogs. However, male dogs usually grow at a different rate compared to female dogs A male German Shepherd Dog will grow very fast in its first 47 weeks. At 47 weeks, a male German Shepherd Dog will have reached 95 percent of its adult weight at 47 weeks. A male German Shepherd Dog will then slowly stop adding more weight. Similarly, a female German Shepherd Dog will grow very fast in its first 44 weeks. At 44 weeks, a female German Shepherd Dog will have reached 95 percent of its adult weight at 44 weeks. A female German Shepherd Dog will then slowly stop adding more weight. See the growth graph of a German Shepherd Dog below. As you can see in the German Shepherd Dog growth curve below, the German Shepherd Dog grows really fast in its early weeks, and then its growth levels off till it reaches percent of the adult weight. The calculator assumes that your German Shepherd Dog is growing normally, and not on its way to become overweight or underweight. Weight of the German Shepherd Dog. Weight in the dark green region is typical, though weight in the light green region is also possible Adult German Shepherd Dogs typically weigh between 75 to 95 pounds. Above is a graph that shows how much a German Shepherd Dog should weigh at different ages. Check where the weight of your German Shepherd Dog falls in the graph for its age. It is totally fine if the weight of your German Shepherd Dog falls in either the dark green or light green region of the graph. However, weight in the dark green region is more typical for German Shepherd Dogs. If the weight of your German Shepherd Dog falls outside both the dark and light green region for its age, then you should consult a vet. Also, you can use the German Shepherd Dog weight calculator below to find the typical weight and the normal weight range of German Shepherd Dogs, male or female, of any age between 12 weeks and weeks. The calculator will also tell you if your German Shepherd Dog is within the normal weight range for the German Shepherd Dog. This German Shepherd Dog weight calculator uses information from belpatt. What is the Height of the German Shepherd Dog? The adult German Shepherd Dog is 1 foot, 10 inches to 2 feet, 2 inches tall. This is the average adult height of the German Shepherd Dog. This is How to Tell Puppy growth predictors, growth charts, and growth calculators like the ones above are approximate methods for predicting growth in dogs. However, these tools have limited capabilities. Our tool will also let you know if your German Shepherd Dog is growing normally. You can use this growth trajectory to accurately predict how big your German Shepherd Dog will get. The growth trajectory will also let you know very early if your German Shepherd Dog will become overweight or underweight. And these days, pets gain weight very easily because their owners spoil them with lots of treats and food. Below is what a normal growth pattern and what abnormal growth patterns look like in German Shepherd Dogs. You can compare your German Shepherd Dog growth trajectory against these references to see if your German Shepherd Dog is growing normally or you can use our automatic tool. The first method, which is the better and more accurate method to weigh your German Shepherd Dog, is to use a dog weighing scale. Having a scale for weighing your German Shepherd Dog will make it easy for you to weigh your German Shepherd Dog regularly without any trouble. The scale that we recommend for weighing the German Shepherd Dog is this high durability and affordable W. Click here to check out this scale on Amazon. Then use the same scale to weigh yourself without your German Shepherd Dog. Then calculate your weight when holding your dog minus your weight when not holding your German Shepherd Dog. This method is illustrated in the picture below. However, note that this method of holding your dog on a scale is not very accurate, and it may be difficult for you to use this method to weigh your German Shepherd Dog if your German Shepherd Dog is very heavy or if your German Shepherd Dog is the type that would not stay still while being held. Starting at 4 months, your German Shepherd Dog will gain 1. At 5 months of age, your German Shepherd Dog will grow at a rate of 1. Then at 6 months, your German Shepherd Dog will gain 1. Some are genetic and others are environmental. Male dogs of each breed tend to be larger and heavier than female dogs of the same breed. Just like humans, dogs can become overweight or obese. And just like humans, there are serious health effects from obesity in dogs. So be sure to feed your dog a healthy diet and help him get the exercise he needs for good health. To get a much more accurate puppy weight estimate for you specific breed, use our Puppy Weight Calculator. The puppy calculator takes breed into consideration, but here are a few examples of what you might expect depending on the breed of your pup. Remember that where there is a range, the females will generally be on the smaller end and the males on the larger end, but there is a lot of overlap between individual dogs. Toy Breeds Chihuahuas will generally not exceed 6 lbs. Puppy Breed Size The speed at which your puppy will reach his adult weight depends on his overall size. In general, toy and small breeds will mature more quickly than large and giant breeds. Toy breeds might reach their adult size at as young as 8 months, while the largest of the giant breeds will continue growing until they are 2 years old. Small, medium, and large breeds will fall in line along that spectrum. Using a puppy growth chart like these from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute can help you determine whether your pup is at the right weight for his breed and size. Keep in mind, however, that these weight charts are good as a rule of thumb but that there will be some individual variance. Your vet can help you decide whether your puppy is underweight, overweight, or just right. Check Their Ribcage As he becomes an adult, you can use the method where you feel his ribs. For most dogs, you should be able to easily feel his ribs without pressing inward; you should not see his ribs. Some breeds tend to be leaner or heavier, however, so again, this is something your veterinarian should help you determine. Double Their Weight at 4 Months If you want to guess at how much your puppy will weigh as an adult, you can double what he weighs or weighed at 4 months of age. Still, it will give you a good ballpark estimate if you are curious. As with everything else pertaining to your puppy, keep in mind that he is an individual. Your vet is your best source of information pertaining to your specific puppy and what he should weigh. If you like our puppy growth chart and want to share it, just copy and paste the code below the chart. We also have a Great Dane Growth chart , chihuahua growth chart , and labrador growth chart. One of the things we found interesting in building our puppy weight calculator was researching the breeds that people most frequently search for when it comes to puppy weight gain. Let us estimate how large your German Shepherd will be as an adult by inputting their age and weight into the calculator below. German Shepherds are considered a medium-to-large-sized breed. This means they often fall around the line that separates medium-sized dogs from large-sized dogs. The AKC wants males stand at inches and weigh pounds, making them considerably larger than females in some cases. Females stand at inches and weigh around pounds. As you can see, this is a huge range. There is a significant difference between a pound dog and an pound dog. Therefore, how big your particular dog might get depends largely on their genetics. You can often get somewhat of an idea by looking at both of their parents. Typically, if the parents are smaller, their puppies will be as well and visa versa. What does a 4-month German Shepherd weigh? Usually, 4-month-old German Shepherds weigh about pounds if they are males and pounds if they are females. Once they are born, genetics tend to take over. At 4-months-old, the puppies have been growing according to genetics for long enough for you to guess what their adult size might be. A dog that is small at this age is likely to remain small. They are simply focusing on growing larger at this point. They should have all their puppy teeth and decent motor skills. How big is a 6-month-old German Shepherd? Puppies undergo massive growth spurts before five months. By the time they reach six months, their growth has slowed down considerably. The average male will weigh about 53 pounds, while females weigh 46 pounds. They have not reached their full adult weight yet, but they are very close. Because their growth has slowed down so much, though, they will continue to grow for a long time to come. This is normal. It is also normal if your dog retains their somewhat skinny appearance for a few more months to come. When is a German Shepherd fully grown? Female German Shepherds often stop growing at around two years. Males may continue to grow for another six months or so. The exact time that each dog stops growing depends on genetics and their diet. This can make them grow too fast, which can mess up their joints and cause other health problems. In fact, hip dysplasia is much more likely in dogs that were improperly fed as puppies. Instead, we recommend patience. Dogs may not grow evenly. Many may reach their full height before gaining much of their muscle mass and fat. Dogs are a lot like children in this way. They grow at their own pace. While these dogs reach sexual maturity before they are fully grown, it is generally not recommended to breed them until they have reached their full size. Otherwise, it can stunt their growth and potentially cause health problems for the mother and the puppies. Do German Shepherds Grow Fast? Generally, German Shepherds grow rather fast in their first six months of life. They will double their weight many times in this period and undergo many growth spurts. However, after five to six months, it will begin to slow down substantially. While they will almost reach their full size at about six months, it will take them until they are about two to finally gain those last few dozen pounds. Why is my German Shepherd so small? German Shepherds all grow in a unique fashion, similarly to people. For this reason, a German Shepherd may not seem to be growing much at all, only to hit a growth spurt. Your dog may seem small compared to other German Shepherds while still being in the normal range. This increases their risk for many health problems, including hip dysplasia. The dog needs to grow at their natural rate. A dog can simply be smaller than normal but completely healthy. Some German Shepherds have been crossed with other kinds of shepherd — these dogs are likely to not grow at the same rate as their pure-bred peers, too. Do not make the mistake and keep your German Shepherd outside most of the time. These dogs get highly attached to their humans and want to spend time with them! If your dog lives outside and is experiencing stunted growth, he may be refusing food due to loneliness. Make sure to take him to a vet — and in addition, let him spend time inside with you! Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

There are a variety of reasons to crate train your dog. Use your crate: [25] X Research source To keep your puppy safe when you cannot watch her. To keep your belongings safe when you cannot watch your puppy. When your puppy is home alone. To give your puppy a place to calm down. When traveling. To keep your puppy away from children or other dogs. To aid in house training and other behavioral training. Never use your crate to punish your dog. And once your dog is no longer a puppy and can be trusted not to destroy the house, do not crate your dog when you are away. Save the crate for special times — i. For the most part, your dog should enter her crate voluntarily. The type of crate you use is up to personal preference, though many find that wire crates are the most durable and comfortable long-term solutions for dogs as well as being used at most kennels where you might board your dog. The most important thing is that you get the right size crate. If it is too small, your dog will not be comfortable. If it is too large, it will provide the den-like space dogs crave. Your dog should be able to stand in the crate without hitting her head, to turn around comfortably, and to lie on their side with their paws stretched out. Also buy a divider if purchasing the crate for your puppy. Your dog should enjoy her crate. It should provide a comfortable place for her to relax, so much so that she should choose to spend time there. Make sure to: [28] X Research source Put the crate in a room where you spend lots of time, so your puppy does not feel abandoned. Keep it a comfortable temperature: out of direct sunlight and far from fireplaces and radiators. Place soft bedding inside. Place chew toys inside to give your dog something to do. Cover your wire crate with a towel or crate cover. This will give it more of the den-like feel your dog craves. If you do it well, crate training will be much easier. Throw some new dog toys in, too. Let your dog explore the crate on her own. Let her go at her own speed. Every hour or so put more treats in the crate when your dog is not looking. Be sure to subtract all these treats from their daily food allowance. Also start feeding your dog in the crate. At first, put the bowl just inside so they only have to poke their head in. After 2 or 3 successful feedings, move it to the middle, then all the way back. Show your dog a treat and toss it in the crate. Move away and wait for her to leave the crate. Always use your cue words. Repeat the whole ritual several times a day until your dog is happily entering the crate to fetch treats. After tossing a treat in once or twice to warm your dog up, use your command word without a treat. If she enters, praise profusely and give a treat or two. Also praise her when she leaves. Repeat this training several times a day for two or three days, until your dog is entering and leaving the crate on command. If your golden puppy struggles with this step, go back to the previous one. Ask your puppy to enter the crate and sit. Slowly close the door. If you have to bang it shut before your dog escapes, then she is not ready for this step. When the door is closed, praise and give treats, then open the door and let her leave. Gradually lengthen the time they must sit in the crate before you let them out. Do sessions of training where they wait ten seconds, then 30, 45, and a minute. When your dog can comfortably stay in the crate for a minute, you will want to start moving away while she is in the crate. In the first session, move only a few feet away before you come back. Move to different areas of the room and keep looking at your dog. Next, try training sessions where you move around the room without paying attention to your puppy. Add moments when you step out of the room briefly and return. Finally, leave the room. At first, stay out for only five minutes. Gradually increase the time you are gone to 30 minutes. Go back to the previous step or reduce the time you are leaving her. Always remove your puppies leash and collar before putting her in the crate, as they are choking hazards. For a puppy, these will need to be shorter trips, as a puppy cannot be expected to go more than 3 hours or so without urinating. She needs to be able to get up and stretch her legs. Vary the time you put your dog in the crate. Sometimes do it ten minutes before you go. Sometimes five. Sometimes right before you head out the door. Praise your dog for entering her crate, then go. Now that your puppy is comfortable in her crate, she can sleep there overnight, but be sure you can hear her. Puppies often need to pee in the middle of the night. We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cozy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden colored retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. Well, besides their beauty, both Golden Retriever puppies and adult doggos typically are very people-oriented dogs who exhibit good behavior, lots of affection and gentle temperaments. Golden Retriever breeders will tell you that these intelligent dogs have lots of energy and usually respond well to training. Here's how it works: When your dog performs a skill or behavior that you like, you give them treats, toys or praise. In time, your dog associates that skill or behavior with good outcomes and becomes more likely to repeat it. There's one catch, though: Positive reinforcement works best when pet parents stay consistent. For example, every time they ask a dog to sit or shake —and it is done correctly—a treat or toy should be given. Use a happy tone of voice rather than a stern one, avoid yelling, and exercise patience. Goldens are highly motivated by food and often by play. When you use highly rewarding training treats or dog toys during your dog training sessions, you reward the specific behaviors you are trying to teach your dog and you build an enthusiastic learner. Teach your dog to love learning. In the same vein, make sure your expectations are reasonable for your dog. For example, puppies need shorter training sessions—around three to five minutes each—because their bodies and brains are not well-developed yet and their attention span is shorter. Regarding age-appropriate training for puppies, Dr. George recommends the following: Potty Training: This should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Take your pup out to go potty several times per day and within a few minutes after eating. Socializing: You can begin socialization—aka introducing your puppy to new people, places and experiences—within a week or two of bringing your puppy home. George advises. Obedience Training: Start training your pup around eight weeks of age. Training your dog early will make it easier to take them to visit the vet, go on walks and thrive in other social situations. Even adult dogs who are new to you and your home may not be ready for high-level training because they still are adjusting to the new environment and people in their lives. Feel it out and practice patience. On that note, because Golden Retrievers are often large, strong and energetic dogs, you may want to consider a gentle leader head collar, such as the PetSafe Gentle Leader Dog Head Collar. This gives you additional leverage whenever you are walking your pet in an exciting environment. Clicker training is extremely effective and is used worldwide to train all kinds of species. This method uses a special sound to mark a specific behavior. Speed up the process by including dog training during daily activities. Is it time for dinner? Are you about to take a walk? There are many opportunities to practice commands in everyday situations, so use that to your advantage! Encourage each family member to practice basic skills with the dog, including: Sit. Goldens are often very people-oriented dogs, aside from their beauty and cuteness. When considering adding a Golden Retriever to your pack, it is prudent to conduct research by speaking with golden retriever breeders, rescues, and parents. These are huge, lively dogs that are often unaware of their size. The good news is that golden retriever training is super easy as they are eager to please, especially when it comes to high-value puppy treats. It is important to get the best puppy training treats, whether you're teaching your puppy to lie down, sit, or potty train. Keep things interesting and exciting for your Golden throughout each training session. Instead of a severe tone, use a cheerful one. Avoid screaming and practise patience instead. If your pet ignores your cues, you can re-engage him by being playful and making the process a little simpler. You can also use delicious training treats while training your golden retriever. Make it enjoyable Food and play are powerful motivators for goldens. Positive reinforcement is guaranteed to help with golden retriever training. Age and skill-appropriate golden retriever training We don't expect toddlers to perform algebra, so make sure your expectations for your dog are reasonable. Puppies, for example, require shorter training sessions—around minutes each—due to their underdeveloped bodies and brains. Adult dogs who are new to you and your house may not be ready for advanced training because they are still adjusting to their new surroundings and humans. Keep It Secure A well-fit dog collar, such as the Frisco solid martingale dog collar, is one of the best tools for Golden Retriever training. For everyday walking and training, you'll also need a foot flat training leash. Because Golden Retrievers may be huge, strong, and energetic dogs, you might want to consider using a gentle leader headcollar, such as the PetSafe Premier gentle leader rapid-release dog headcollar, to provide you with more control when walking your dog in a stimulating area. Make Golden Retriever Training Easy to Understand When your dog does it right, using the clicker training approach can help you provide very clear feedback. Clicker training is incredibly effective and is used to train different kinds of animals all over the world! A distinctive sound is used to signify a certain behavior in this procedure. Your dog will realize he has earned a reward if you use a dog clicker, such as the Downtown Pet Supply training dog clicker. It doesn't take long for a dog to grasp the concept and then repeat it. Include training in your daily routine We can't perfect skills without frequent practice, and your canine companion is no exception. Start with something basic, like potty training your golden retriever puppy. Is it dinner time yet? Then, before you set the bowl in front of your dog, practice "sit. Just before you pick up the leash, call your dog's name or whatever cue the dog might notice. After your dog's stroll, practice "down" and "stay" when he is more likely to respond to your command. Take advantage of the numerous opportunities to practice commands in everyday circumstances. Make training your golden retriever a family project Make sure your Golden Retriever gets along well with everyone in the family, including other pets. Encourage each family member to work with the dog on fundamental commands such as sit, down, off people, counters, furniture , stay, come, and "all done" to end sessions. Encourage everyone to make default behavior a priority for training your golden retriever. When supervision isn't possible, you can assist other pets to feel comfortable around your golden by using equipment a dog leash, crates, or baby gates to separate them as needed. Maintain Consistency Some "home rules" for your dog must be agreed upon by all family members. While little variances in how people interact with pets are acceptable, the dog will learn and keep his manners best if the rules are followed consistently. Parents may prefer to start with the fundamentals of training their golden retriever. After that, you can assist your children in teaching the dog how to ask for them as well. Train your dog in stages You can increase your training requirements as your Golden Retriever masters fundamental manners and rules. When your dog understands that he must sit and lie down at specific times, you can ask him to stay in that posture until he is freed. Commit for the rest of your life Even if your dog is a beloved family member with excellent manners, there are always new things to learn. Training your golden retriever stimulates the brain, allowing you to better utilize your golden's high activity level. It also deepens the human-animal link, benefiting the whole family. Learn about new sports and activities, including nose work, agility, rallying, and therapeutic visits. Summary These suggestions can assist your new Golden Retriever in understanding the training. Whether you start with an 8-week-old puppy, an adolescent rescue, or a senior dog, these tips will result in success. It also allows you to assist him in burning energy, providing excitement, and developing a deep bond with your dog. Share this on:.

But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Five to six weeks and beyond. A Baby Labrador is born! Labrador litter sizes can range from , but on average consist of seven puppies. Therefore, your baby Labrador will have around six siblings. Newborn Labradors Baby Labradors are born covered in fur that will be black, yellow or chocolate. Less frequent colors are charcoal, silver and champagne. Their ears and eyes will be closed meaning they are unable to hear or see anything. Apart from snuggling up to its siblings and its mother, your baby Labrador will spend most of its time resting and nursing. One week old baby Labrador Your baby Labrador gains a healthy amount of weight during its first week of life and should now look a bit bigger. Its front leg muscles will be slightly more developed allowing it to pull itself towards its mother for milk. It will still spend most of its time resting, snuggling and nursing. Rapid weight gain and growth should continue to take place and the muscles in the legs will become increasingly stronger. Your two-week-old baby Labrador will still not be able to regulate its own body heat, so will spend most of the day close to its mother. Not only do baby Labradors rely on their mothers for heat; they also rely on them to encourage bowel and bladder movements. This is the time when its individuality will begin to stand out. Its ear canals and eyes will be completely open, allowing it to see and hear its surroundings. By the end of the week, it should be able to sit up and stand. Its muscles and sense of balance will undergo a lot of development as it attempts to walk. It will be able to regulate its own body heat more effectively so will spend less time with its mother and will instead want play with its siblings. Teething begins during this time in preparation for weaning throughout the upcoming weeks. Four week old Labrador Your baby Labrador will be much larger now and will have clearer distinguishable features. Due to their lively temperaments, baby Labradors will be very active and will want to play with their siblings throughout the day. It will also be able to maintain its own body heat without aid. Back teeth will begin to come through and weaning may start during this week. Five week old baby Labrador At this age, your baby Labrador will be able to play with toys as well as its siblings. It will be more receptive to interactions with humans, allowing it to be handled more frequently. This will decrease the likelihood of it becoming fearful of humans later in life. Its mother and siblings will begin to teach it bite inhibition by vocalizing loudly when it bites too hard during playtime. Weaning should be well underway with the baby Labrador eating solid foods multiple times a day. It will be able to bark now, and may be very loud! Six week old Labrador A six-week-old baby Labrador should be fully weaned and eating several small meals of solid food a day. Apart from for play and comfort, your baby Labrador will be fully independent from its mother. It will be fairly large now and should weigh around lbs. Even though your baby Labrador has changed a lot, its immune system is still maturing rapidly. This takes up a lot of energy so it will sleep for around 18 hours a day. Most of what it learns during this stage will stick. It should continue to experience new things to reduce the risk of it become fearful in adulthood. Exposure to new sounds, sights, smells and people will have a positive impact and set them up for later in life. Your breeder may begin potty training throughout this time as the bowel and bladder muscles are mostly developed. Eight week old Labrador Your baby Labrador is ready to come to its new home! It will now weigh around lbs. It will continue to rest for the majority of the day but will be extremely active and playful when awake. Ensure you are at home for most of the day so you can give it playtime. To train your Labrador, you can use our potty training schedule to keep you on track. Teething Baby Labradors are likely to bite because they are teething at this stage. Even though they are only small, their bites can cause a lot of harm. Therefore, it is recommended you get some chew toys and carry out training to reduce the risk of potential injuries. To get more tips on how to stop a puppy from biting, you can read our article on the topic here. Nutrients such as proteins, fatty acids, and vitamins are going to be essential for your new family member to grow healthily, especially with its active temperament. There are lots of dog foods you can consider that are designed to meet the needs of your puppy, or you may wish to go the raw food route. The portions you give your baby Labrador depends on the kind of food being provided, but generally, they will need meals a day. As they are a larger breed, they need a lot of food to support their development. However, it is important to stick to the recommended portion sizes as you do not want your baby Labrador to become obese. More information can be found in our article about feeding a Labrador puppy. If you provide it with a good diet, exercise regime and lots of love, it should fit into its new family fairly quickly. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

What we think of this misunderstood crossbreed 1. The American Bulldog Pitbull mix is as dangerous as it looks. These dogs get a bad rap mostly because of their appearance, which can be intimidating. With the Pitbull Bulldog hybrid, though, looks can be deceiving. How big does an American Bulldog Pitbull mix get? Most Bully Pits are medium-sized , with bodies that are muscular and compact. Pointed ears and a large mouth complete the face of a Pitbull Bulldog mix. Like their parent breeds, most Bully Pits have smooth coats of short, fine hair. Their coats come in a wide variety of colors, including black, brown, white, tan, cream, grey, red, and brindle. The appearance of a Bulldog Pitbull mix also depends on the specific parent used in the breeding. As long as they receive firm obedience training and socialization at an early age, Pitbull Bulldog crosses will prove themselves to be friendly dogs who love to have fun, whether with their family or with other dogs. American Bulldog Pitbull mixes make for sweet, affectionate pets that enjoy being the center of attention. Look at these adorable Bulldog-Pitbull dogs having fun in the backyard: One distinguishing trait of the Bulldog Pitbull mix is its loyalty to its pack. This crossbreed tends to be highly protective of its family members, using its deep voice to warn you about something suspicious in your home. Its natural protectiveness and loyalty, combined with its intimidating, strong physique, make the American Bulldog Pitbull mix one of the best guard dogs you can get today. Due to their energetic, playful nature, Pitbull Bulldog mixes love being around children, especially those they grow up with. A properly trained American Bulldog Pitbull mix will also be protective of the kids in its family. Bully Pits are impossible to train. The key to properly training an American Bulldog Pitbull mix is having the right attitude. The Pitbull Bulldog mix has a confident, assertive personality, so it will listen only to a person who has a similar demeanor. With the right owner, American Bulldog Pitbull mixes will prove to be intelligent dogs who can quickly follow commands and adopt positive behavior. By training your Pitbull Bulldog mix from an early age, you can help your dog understand your role as the alpha and its position in the pack hierarchy. This crossbreed benefits from early socialization and leash training, and you can start by walking your puppy around the neighborhood so it can get used to being around other people and dogs. Instead of punishing your dog, use a reward system and positive reinforcement when he follows your orders. American Bulldog Pitbull mixes need a home with plenty of space. Bully Pits will thrive in an apartment or condominium as long as they get sufficient exercise every day. The Pitbull Bulldog needs 60 to 90 minutes of moderate exercise daily. It will love being your running buddy or going with you on leisurely walks around the neighborhood. Mental stimulation is crucial for the American Bulldog Pitbull cross, so make sure to play brain games like hide and seek and treasure hunts with your dog. Like its Pit Bull parent, the Pitbull Bulldog mix is an accomplished jumper. Taking care of an American Bulldog and Pitbull mix is difficult. A thorough brushing once or twice a week is enough to keep their coats shiny and healthy. You can use a damp washcloth to wipe down the Pitbull and Bulldog hybrid every week or two to get rid of any debris in the coat. The proper diet for a Pitbull Bulldog mix Like its parent breeds, the American Bulldog Pitbull cross tends to gain weight easily. Make sure to divide this amount of food into 3 or 4 meals throughout the day. This dog food contains the nutrients that the crossbreed needs to build strong muscles and joints, keep its energy levels up, and maintain overall good health. Is the Bully Pit a healthy breed? You can expect to enjoy many years of companionship with this dog. However, this crossbreed is also predisposed to certain genetic conditions, especially those that affect its parent breeds. Both the American Bulldog and the Pit Bull Terrier are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so your Bulldog Pitbull mix may be prone to these joint conditions, too. This hybrid dog is also vulnerable to skin allergies and infections because of its short coat. Due to its Bulldog heritage, the Pitbull Bulldog cross may also be prone to respiratory problems. Their short, thin coats also make most American Bulldog Pitbull crosses intolerant of cold weather. Make sure to bundle up your dog if you want to go out on cold days. If you want to buy an American Bulldog Pitbull mix, your best source is a reputable breeder. Breeders of this specific hybrid may be difficult to find, though, so your next best option is to contact breeders of American Bulldogs and Pit Bull Terriers:. Due to its huge size, the Pitbull Bulldog is NOT well-suited for apartment life and would better suit life on a farm or, at the very least, a home with a large, fenced-in yard where the dog can roam around. The coat of the American Bulldog Pitbull mix Although the coat of the American Bulldog Pitbull mix is short, fine, and slick, this breed is not hypoallergenic and thus would not be well suited to people with allergies. The type of Pitbull, be it a blue-nosed or red-nosed, will affect the look and color of a Bullypit pup. Based on its parents, the American Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy can come in a variety of colors such as black, tan, red, yellow, grey, golden, cream, and white. American Bulldog Red Nose Pitbull mix The American Bulldog Pitbull is an extremely protective dog but will exhibit a cheerful personality if socialized and trained when still a puppy. Training a Bullypit puppy can start as early as eight weeks old. Doing so will make this fido develop good behavior. Be prepared for tricky or challenging training sessions. Due to their dominant, impatient characteristics, they will require a firm hand and a committed owner. It is ideal to have some experience when dealing with this breed because if this is your first time owning a dog, the Bullypit may notice it. American Bulldog Pitbull mixes can also be wary with strangers and other dogs. With that said, they may have a tendency towards aggression, particularly with smaller pets. Like with every good watchdog, Bullypits like to bark and will fit the job. If taught and handled correctly, you can expect an extremely sweet fur buddy from this breed. You can check out how smart an American Pitbull is in this video, where one is being trained to sit, leave, and fetch: Caring for an American Bulldog Pitbull Mix A few things to keep in mind when it comes to owning this breed — because of their thin coat, this crossbreed does not fare well in climates that are too warm or cold. Their single layer of fur does not offer much protection and even means that the Bulldog Pitbull is susceptible to sunburn and needs to use sunscreen! How much exercise does this fido need? This hybrid is fairly active, and at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. Being on the move will help this doggo stay well-behaved and entertained. That is why we recommend them to active families who enjoy spending time outdoors and taking their canine friend on runs, jogs, and hikes. Only visit the doggy park if your Bullypit is trained and socialized. It will help prevent gastric torsion, which is a common but severe condition in large breeds. This crossbreed will benefit significantly from high-quality dry dog food with low-grain content as grain can cause allergies. It should also be high in meat and Omega 3 fatty acids to develop strong bones and sustain muscle mass. If you have the time and budget to feed your canine pal raw food, that would be great, too! Just like Benzo with this hearty meal. Just make sure that the food you provide your dog is based on his age, size, activity level, and health. Easy-breezy grooming The grooming needs of the American Bulldog Pitbull mix are low to moderate. Brushing is only needed about twice a week — except in seasons of high shedding where daily brushing is required. Give him a bath only when necessary, like when he gets dirty or stinky. Wiping the Bulldog Pitbull mix with a damp washcloth will be enough to clean him and remove any loose hairs. Its teeth should be brushed two or three times a week, while nails should be clipped when they get too long or notice them clacking against the floor. Ears can also be checked and wiped clean weekly. Are Bullypits healthy? The hardy mixed breed of an American Bulldog and Pitbull results in a cross that can have a general lifespan of 10 to 13 years. Still, hybrids can inherit some of the health problems that their purebred parents are prone to. The English counterpart of the American Bulldog is known for several illnesses such as hip dysplasia, which is common in short-legged dogs. Focus on maintaining an exercise regime and supplemented diet that will help to prevent this in your Bullypit. Due to their short nose, your puppy may also develop Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome , which can cause serious respiratory complications. The one-layer coat of the Pitbull parent also makes this breed susceptible to allergies. Other common ailments that may affect the American Bulldog Pitbull mix are hypothyroidism , heart disease, eye problems, and reverse sneezing. Thanks to technology, you can find available pups online! You will also need to take into account the average annual expenses, and the usual medical bills. American Bulldog Pitbull mix breeders When looking for your perfect Bullypit puppy, a lot of thought and care should go into trying to find a good breeder. Irresponsible breeding of the American Pitbull and American Bulldog can result in an aggressive dog. You may also check social media accounts where you may find American Bulldog Pitbull mix puppies for sale. There are also marketplaces that offer Pitbull mixes and American Bully mixes. Greenfield Puppies Lancaster Puppies Rescuing a PitbullBulldog Due to the nature of this breed, you can often find the American Bulldog Pitbull mix at shelters that you can adopt or rehome. Depending on its past, the rescue of this crossbreed may need a lot of time and dedication in terms of training, resocialization, and exercise. Some rescue organizations do train dogs that stay with them, so this is something you can ask the shelter. This breed, while not the ideal pet for everyone, shows strict loyalty to its favorite people. The protective, strong, and energetic nature of the Bullypit makes them best suited for active and experienced dog owners who are willing to invest the time training, exercising, and socializing their dog. What can you say about this designer dog? Do you have an American Bulldog Pitbull mix? Share your story with us by commenting below! A post shared by Camila Cristina bigbabyhaze Life Expectancy Since they are a medium-sized dog, they do have a longer life expectancy compared to a large dog. Hopefully, your mix will live a healthy life up to at least 12 years or more. As mentioned, they can be wary of new faces and strange dogs, but once trust is gained, you have a lifelong friend. They will still have a natural tendency to be protective of their tribe, but most dogs have this trait. English Pitbulls are confident and brave, which can be negative or positive in certain situations. But you will be hard-pressed to find another mix that is more affectionate and loving. If you have kids, they will be like a sibling, as these dogs love to play for hours on end. This mix is fairly easy to train since they are smart and eager to please. Just remember that they respond better to positive reinforcement rather than negative. If you are unsure of the best way to train your English Bulldog and Pitbull mix, consult a certified trainer who has dealt with this mix before to help you and your dog succeed. Generally speaking, Bulldogs have a low to moderate energy level, while Pitbulls are high-energy dogs, so you could have a dog who is in-between or just low or high. You will want to provide well-rounded nutrition, no matter the level of their activity. If you have a high-energy dog, they will need more food throughout the day. High-quality dog food that provides all the needed nutrients is the best to feed your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Speak with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is receiving the proper nutrition to live a healthy life. Moderate exercise is best to keep your dog trim and fit, but if your dog shows signs of boredom, such as chewing or adopting other bad behaviors, you may need to up your exercise game. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Taking time to train your dog and play will make for a happier and healthier pet. They want to be part of the family and will thrive when involved with activities that include everyone. Use a soft brush on their coat a couple of times per week to keep the fur healthy. Regular grooming appointments will help ensure that you can keep your dog looking their best. Getting regular vet check-ups is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and ensuring that they have a long life. Minor Conditions. Black, tan, red, cream, white, grey, and golden Temperament: Energetic, loyal, loving, friendly, hardworking, intelligent Most Suitable For: Families with or without children, active single individuals What Does a English Bulldog Pitbull Mix Look Like? Photo: Instagram Like most designer dog breeds, you can expect that your English Bulldog Pitbull mix to take their physical appearance from both parent breeds — the question of how much of each parent is largely down to chance, and how their genetics mix together. Your English Bulldog Pitbull mix will like to have the short, stocky build of the Pitbull with a broad chest. It may have a slightly longer body than your traditional Pit Bull-Type dogs but will be leaner than your average English Bulldog. It will likely have the floppy, triangular ears of the English Bulldog. Their coat will be single coat and they have may have loose skin, as part of their Olde English Bulldogge heritage. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. It is likely that this crossbreed came to be in the s and early s, when crossbreeding became increasingly popular in the United States. The Old English Bulldog and the Pitbull both have extensive British histories The History of the English Bulldog The English Bulldog is a descendant of mastiff-type dogs that were likely crossbred with a type of Pug that was likely imported from China around the 13th century. The English Bulldog is known as a brachycephalic breed — similar to the Pug — hence the inference that they are likely ancient descendants. The competition would end when the bull collapsed from exhaustion, or the dog was killed. Maintaining their stocky appearance and flat face, the bulldog was also a working military and police dog and became of a national treasure and national emblem during the Second World War in the United Kingdom. The English Bulldog had landed in the United States in the midth century. The English Bulldog is often confused with the Olde English Bulldogge, which is an American dog breed that was developed in the s by American breeder, David Leavitt. In , Bulldogs were the sixth most-popular dog in the United States. Bulldogs are fairly active family pets, though if you obtain an English Bulldog, then expect a less active pet than the American version. The American Bulldog is a taller, leaner dog than the English Bulldog. These were bred as hunting dogs in the American Midwest. Meanwhile, the American Bulldog is also a good family pet, though are more active and require a greater amount of mental stimulation when exercising. English Bulldogs were bred from ancient breeds like the mastiff — hence their loose skin — and the Pug, hence their flat-faced appearance. Today, the English Bulldog is a companion pet to many and has an extensive history in the British Isles as a national mascot of sorts, particularly during the Second World War. The breed standard of the English Bulldog has changed several times throughout its history, although it has maintained a fairly pure bloodline. Given its extensive history in Britain, it is not a common crossbreed in the U. However, in the United States, in the s and early s, there was a crossbreeding craze that led to many mix breeds being created. Among them was the English Bulldog. Popular English Bulldog mixes include:. In addition, it does not shed like most crossbreeds do, marking for less maintenance and grooming required. Dog owners, especially the new ones, are expected to know more than just the essential traits and appearance of the pups they are choosing. It is likewise crucial for them to consider and recognize that with all excellent characteristics come to not-so-pretty ones, and that should not be a hindrance for them in planning to get one. Purebreds, unlike their crossbreed offspring, are not as healthy, but their crossbreed pups do inherit most of their most potent diseases and medical complications. One precautionary measure duly advised to clients and customers to make sure that disease-inheritance is taken to a minimum, if not appropriately avoided, is to be vigilant and careful in choosing Bulldog Pitbull Mix puppies that are for sale. This is crucial since it ensures that the buyer is making the right and just circumstances that are presented before them. In the bigger picture, the penultimate reason for avoiding such a purchase is that often these companies and pet stores conduct large-scale breeding of dogs. It is a method that is indeed far from being animal-friendly and ethical. In this practice, the health of the parent dog is not duly considered for the offspring. In other words, they breed dogs as they so please without taking health, food, and safety much into consideration. A respectable and reputable breeder is one who is transparent about their methods. It is crucial for you to check if the breeding facility is safe and spacious enough for the animals to roam around and have fun. You can ask them for a copy of the background data of each purebred parent and genetic mapping of the crossbreed offspring for reference. Here are some online sites to get you started on your pup search: Angel Heart Kennel LLC Across the state, you can only fin local breeders and animal shelters. Most likely, in one of these shelters, one might find a Pitbull Bulldog Mix looking for a lovely new home. Try opening www. As such, it is no wonder that the smooth and shiny coat of the Pitbull combined with Bulldog does not shed profusely and does not require high maintenance. Use a soft bristle brush at least once or twice a week, but no more than four days. However, during shedding season, the fur of the Bulldog crossed with Pitbull does shed quite often. When this occurs, it is recommended to brush their hair and coat daily. Instead, one can use a damp washcloth to wipe the dog every now and then. This method can help get rid of some loose fur and keep them clean. The full bath should be given only once a month since their coat needs all the natural oils on the skin. In any case, whether patting them down or bathing, the following vital areas need focus: Foot pads and paws Tail and the region around the anus Eye region, especially the eyelids As a common practice among grooming dogs, teeth brushing is required not only for good oral hygiene but especially for the prevention of irksome dental complications. Regularly check the ears for redness, wax buildup, and nasty ear mites. Note, however, that when trimming, one must practice care and accuracy to avoid complication and infection. The English Bulldog, having a life span of years, has many health concerns than most purebreds. Other dilemmas include hip dysplasia, screw tail, cherry eye, among others. The English Pitbull Terrier is the healthier dog parent in comparison. Also facing possible hip dysplasia concerns, this purebred is known to experience allergies, mange, and skin infections. As such, in an overview of things, the Bulldog mixed with Pitbull requires much medical attention and involves a ton of payment for vet bills. Depending on the favored parent, there is no telling if the crossbreed would face many or fewer complications. Prone to allergies, the Pitbull combined with Bulldog borrows its skin complication from the Pitbull parent. Prevention of these diseases means regular washcloth wiping and avoidance of typical allergen-containing and grainy food. Hip Dysplasia. A significant focus on diet and exercise is enough to help prevent this painful joint displacement. Heart disease. Any bull breed is known to face heart complications such as congenital heart disease among others. There is no sure fire way to prevent it other than early detection and treatment. Once found, divide the meal portions into at least two meals per day with equal serving. You can also incorporate giving of treats and scheduled feedings that and intertwined with free feeding at least once per week to keep things new for the pup. This is to ensure that your dog does not grow into being obese, which raises complication for hip dysplasia. Likewise, the right mix of minerals and vitamins must be consulted with the veterinarian. Depending on their recommendation, incorporate the intake of these supplements either to the food or medicine administration intermittently. For the Bulldog combined with Pitbull, owners should focus on purchasing dog food rich in chronodotin or glucosamine. These nutrients are crucial in preventing hip dysplasia complications. Luckily, the market is filled with high-quality dog food that one can easily find. You can even ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specifications. Brown, black, white, or mix of these colors Suitable for: Active families with experience training dogs Temperament: Loyal, overprotective, intelligent These dogs make great pets for active families who know how to train a wild dog and are looking for a scary dog that acts like a dove. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Training, socialization, and exercise are important to ensure the well-being of this breed, as with any dog. Taking care of a Pitbull Bulldog mix requires a lot of time, patience, and effort, but can be a rewarding experience. To ensure the well-being of this breed, exercise is crucial, including daily walks, playtime and training. Training should start early and be consistent, as this breed can be stubborn and requires patience and positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization is also important, as this breed is friendly and affectionate, but early socialization can prevent behavioral issues. Always make sure that the puppy you buy is bred only from a reputable breeder who has no intention of fighting the dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? So, Bully Pits are not a good breed if you have young children in your home. Even if your Bully Pit is well behaved, these dogs can play a bit rough, even if they are just having fun. Once again, this can be a very dangerous situation for young children even if the Bully Pit loves the child. As soon as your children get around the age of 10 or older, Bully Pits can make great additions to homes. Although these dogs look scary, they are incredibly affectionate and cuddly. They love having a big family that can shower them in attention. As long as all the family members know how to behave around this dog and treat it with respect, both the family and the dog will likely feel at peace in no time. Unfortunately, Bully Pits are not good with other animals. You might be able to get a pet that stays in a cage or a tank. For example, many Bully Pit owners have lizards or fish. However, do not get another dog or cat because the Bully Pit is likely to get very territorial over you and the home. A post shared by Frankie Quarantino frankie. Bully Pits require strict diet requirements, a lot of exercise, and medical attention. One of the best ways to prevent these illnesses from being a problem is to provide the dog a correct diet. Most Bully Pits will need between 2. No matter what dog food you select, make sure it is high-quality and includes a few ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, chondroitin, and glucosamine. As your dog ages, you want to select a dog food that grows with it. Both Pitbulls and Bulldogs are active breeds. Every day, your Bully Pit should have around 90 minutes of exercise. If you do not fulfill this exercise requirement, your Bully Pit will likely become destructive out of boredom. Instead, you can opt for low-intensity walks and playing with toys inside the home. At the same time, active owners can always kick it up a bit by taking the dog on runs or playing fetch. It really depends on you since this dog is agile with some lazy streaks. Bully Pits are actually very intelligent animals that love their owners. That being said, Bully Pits that do not respect their owners are less likely to listen. You must be firm and consistent with your Bully Pit to demand attention. Once your Bully Pit views you as the alpha, training is actually very easy. If you are aggressive to Bully Pits, they will either lash out or cower away from you. Both situations are unwanted. Instead, use treats and praise to reinforce good behavior. Your Bully Pit will respond very quickly because they love pleasing their owners. This is likely a breath of fresh air after learning all the other high-maintenance aspects of this dog. At most, you should only need a damp washcloth to wipe down the dog whenever it gets dirty during play. Never give a Bully Pit a bath more than once a month unless it gets skunked or some other similar situation. Bulldogs can have some serious icky eyes, and that can be passed on to Bully Pits. Your Bully Pit may fight both grooming needs at first, but they cannot be ignored. Be gentle and allow your dog to smell both the clippers and toothbrush before touching their body with it. Bulldogs have several inheritable illnesses that Bully Pits are likely to take on. Luckily, Pitbulls are relatively healthy, causing Bully Pits to be more healthy than standard Bulldogs. If your Bully Pit favors the Bulldog parent, you should expect it to need more medical attention than a Bully Pit that favors its Pitbull parent. For Bully Pits that favor the Bulldog, it may have breathing issues and heart disease. You might also want to pay attention to its snout skin to make sure it is not infected. In contrast, Bully Pits that favor the Pitbull are more likely to have skin problems and allergies. No matter which dog your Bully Pit favors, hip dysplasia can be a serious issue. Hip dysplasia is an issue for both Pitbulls and Bulldogs. So, it is highly likely for a Bully Pit to experience this in their life. Minor Conditions. Cons: The English Bulldog is a breed that originated in England in the 16th century. It was originally bred for bull baiting, a popular form of entertainment in which a bull was tethered to a post, and a dog was released to attack it. English Bulldogs were known for their strength, courage, and tenacity, and they were prized for these qualities in the bull-baiting ring. It was originally bred for pit fighting, a blood sport that involved two dogs being placed in a pit to fight each other. American Pitbull Terriers were known for their athleticism, strength, and courage, and they were prized for these qualities in the pit fighting ring. However, when pit fighting was banned in the United States, the breed was used for other purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and as a companion animal. It needs to be clarified when the English Bulldog Pitbull Mix was first developed. Still, the breed was likely created in the 20th or 21st century due to the increasing popularity of hybrid species. The Bullpit is not a recognized breed by any major kennel club and is not eligible to participate in conformation shows or other AKC-sanctioned events. Generally, these are medium to large-sized dogs with a stocky build and a muscular appearance. They may have the short, wide head and facial wrinkles of an English Bulldog and the short, smooth coat of an American Pitbull Terrier. Their ears may be short and folded, or they may be long and floppy, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. Their tail may be short and stumpy or long and tapered, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also inherit more physical characteristics from one parent breed than the other. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls can be any color, including black, white, brindle, fawn, red, and more. They may have a solid coat color or a combination of colors. Their coat may be short, smooth, and shiny, or they may be longer and coarser, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also have a variety of markings, such as spots, patches, or a mask. Males are typically larger than females and may weigh up to 70 pounds when fully grown. Conversely, females are usually smaller and may weigh between 30 and 50 pounds when fully grown. It is important to note that the size of an English Bulldog Mixed Pit Bull can also be influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, and genetics. It is also important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have its unique size and weight. Overall, the appearance of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, and it is difficult to predict exactly what a Bullpit will look like based on its parent breeds. It is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have unique physical characteristics. However, some general characteristics may be common in these dogs due to the traits of their parent breeds. English Bulldogs are generally known for being calm, gentle, and affectionate. They are often good with children and can make good family pets. However, they can also be stubborn and require extra patience during training. Pitbulls are generally known for being intelligent, energetic, and loyal. They can be strong-willed and may require firm training and leadership. However, they can also be very loving and make good companions. For example, some may be more laid-back and calm, while others may be more energetic and playful. By learning as much as you can about an English Bulldog Pitbull mix before bringing one home, you can help to ensure that you choose the right dog for your family and lifestyle. The temperament of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, as it will depend on the individual dog and the traits it has inherited from its parents. For example, both English Bulldogs and American Pit bull Terriers have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families. These traits may also be present in an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix. However, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have different personality traits and characteristics. Pitbull Mix English Bulldogs are intelligent and energetic dogs that can be good family pets with the right training and socialization. They may be playful and affectionate with their families and may be good with children if raised with them. However, it is important to remember that these dogs, like all breeds, can be strong-willed and may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure that they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. It is important to do thorough research before considering any breed of dog, including a Pitbull Mix English Bulldog, as a pet. It is also important to choose a reputable breeder and to socialize and train your dog properly to ensure that it grows into a well-behaved and well-adjusted family member. Proper socialization and training can help prevent behavioral issues and ensure that your dog is a happy, well-adjusted family member. There are a few things to consider when deciding whether or not to breed an English Bulldog with a Pitbull. First and foremost, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries risks and responsibilities and should not be undertaken lightly. Before breeding any two animals, it is important to consider the potential health and temperament issues that may arise in the resulting offspring. Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls are prone to certain genetic health conditions, and breeding two dogs that are carriers of the same congenital disease could result in offspring that are affected by the disease. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly research the health history of both parent breeds and choose the breeding stock free from known genetic health issues. In addition to considering the potential health risks, it is also important to consider the temperament and suitability of both parent breeds as family pets. For example, both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families, but they can also be strong-willed. As a result, they may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. Therefore, it is important to research both parent breeds thoroughly and to consider their individual temperament and suitability as pets before deciding to breed them. Finally, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries a significant financial and time commitment. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider whether or not you are prepared to take on the responsibility of breeding and raising a litter of puppies before deciding to mate two animals. Overall, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and responsibilities involved in breeding any two animals, including an English Bulldog and a Pitbull. Choosing a reputable breeder and thoroughly researching the health and temperament of both parent breeds is also important before deciding to breed them. Pitbull English Bulldog Mix Health and Lifespan Pitbull English Bulldog mixes can be prone to certain health problems due to the inherited traits of their parent breeds. Some health issues that English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to include: Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint is malformed, leading to pain and difficulty moving. It can be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Elbow dysplasia: This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. It can also be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Breathing problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to respiratory issues due to their short snouts and narrow nostrils. This can make it difficult for them to breathe, especially in hot or humid conditions. Allergies: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Eye problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to eye problems such as cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye. Skin problems: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to skin problems such as allergies, infections, and hot spots. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls generally have a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. By working with a veterinarian and taking good care of your dog, you can help to ensure that they live a long and healthy life. In general, all dogs need to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Diet: Consult with your veterinarian or a professional pet nutritionist to determine the right type and amount of food for your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Look for a brand that uses real meat or fish as the first ingredient, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. This can help prevent bloat, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when a dog eats too much at once. Avoid giving your English Bulldog Pitbull mix table scraps or other unhealthy treats. These can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions can keep your dog healthy and happy. Be sure to give your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog plenty of opportunities to play and explore, as this can help to stimulate their mind and prevent boredom. Remember that these dogs may be prone to overheating, so avoiding exercising your dog in extreme heat or humidity is important. This includes obedience training and exposure to a variety of people, places, and situations. This helps ensure that your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog is well-behaved and able to adapt to different environments. Cleaning and Grooming English Bulldog Pitbull mixes will require regular grooming to maintain their coat and overall health. A slicker brush or a comb with wide teeth can be effective. Bath your dog every few months or as needed. Use a mild dog shampoo, and rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation. Use a cleaning solution that is specifically made for dogs, and be sure to dry the ears thoroughly after cleaning. Use toothpaste and a toothbrush that is specifically made for dogs. You can help keep your dog looking and feeling its best by providing regular care and attention. Here are some general tips for training an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix: Start training as soon as possible. Use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or other rewards when they do something you want them to do. Avoid using punishment or physical force, as these can be harmful and ineffective. Be consistent. Use the same commands and rewards every time so your dog knows what to expect. Practice regularly. This will help to reinforce the behaviors you want your dog to learn. A trainer can provide guidance and support to help you and your English Bulldog Pitbull mix succeed. With time, patience, and consistency, you can help your dog learn the behaviors you want them to have. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices can vary widely. For example, some breeders may charge more for English Bulldog Pitbull mixes from champion bloodlines or have certain desirable characteristics, while others may charge less. In addition to the initial purchase price, there are other costs to consider when buying an English Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy. This can help to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health issues early on. Vet expenses may include the cost of the initial visit, vaccines, deworming, spaying or neutering, and other medical care. Training and socialization: Training and socializing your puppy is important for their overall health and well-being. This may involve hiring a professional trainer or enrolling in a training class. By budgeting for these costs and being a responsible pet owner, you can ensure that your pup has everything they need to thrive. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before getting any dog, and this is especially true for mixed breeds. Pros: Mixed breeds can sometimes have the best traits of both parent breeds. For example, English Bulldogs are known for being calm and gentle, while Pitbulls are known for being intelligent and energetic. An English Bulldog Pitbull mix could have a good balance of both traits. Mixed breeds may have a lower risk of inherited health problems. Purebred dogs can be prone to certain genetic conditions due to inbreeding, but mixed breeds may be less likely to develop these issues. Mixed breeds may be more adaptable to different living situations. Cons: It can take time to predict the exact traits that a mixed breed will have. Mixed breeds may be harder to find in shelters or rescue organizations. Many people looking to adopt a dog will search for specific purebreds, so that mixed breeds may be less common in these settings. Mixed breeds may be more prone to behavioral issues. Our website is all about Pitbulls. Mandy Connelly Mandy has lived with pitbulls her whole life, and she has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge about these magnificent animals. Having had the pleasure of owning and caring for numerous pitbulls over the years, she has come to understand their unique characteristics, behaviors, and needs. Read more.

So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Before you bring this dog home, there are a few things to understand about the German Shepherd breed. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are animals that catch on quickly to almost everything. Your daily routine, commands, and household expectations are all things that are a breeze for them. With intelligence comes a lot of stubbornness. They require mental stimulation. Long walks are enough to tire out a lot of dog breeds, but with their intelligence, these dogs need more than just physical activity. German Shepherds are working dogs, and they benefit when there is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. If you genuinely want to tire them out, you must incorporate physical exercise with mental exercise. They have a lot of energy. Many German Shepherds benefit from agility courses to give them the appropriate amount of exercise. When you keep them stimulated, they are less likely to act out and cause destruction around the house. Image Credit: Niels Hansen, Pixabay 4. German Shepherds fiercely love their owners. German Shepherds tend to bond more closely to one family member than the rest. Still, they are lovers instead of fighters. They want to spend just as much time cuddling with you at night as they want to be out working during the day. They are great listeners. What else would you expect with those enormous ears perched on top of their heads? Those radar ears are listening to even the most minor sounds, and they are always eager to hear your voice. Image Credit: Capri23auto, Pixabay 6. German Shepherds were bred to be guard dogs. German Shepherds were originally bred to guard the fields of sheep and cattle. Whenever an intruder or predator came onto their land, they immediately alerted their keeper. Without the proper training, this behavior is sometimes territorial and can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. However, with the proper training, it makes you feel at ease whenever you go to bed at night. They are clingy. Not every German Shepherd is clingy, but this breed is known for following people everywhere they go. They are known to bark and howl when left alone for long periods. They are better suited for experienced dog owners. German Shepherds are a handful. These dogs require constant training and dedication. Without it, they could be aggressive or destructive. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay .They do better in pairs. Owning a dog is a better experience when it is mutually beneficial to both of you. Related Reads:. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. German Shepherds just kind of happened to me. Shepherds are a bit suspicious of strangers. Also, be prepared for your shepherd to pick someone to be her person in your family. In my family, Pyrrha unequivocally picked me. Beware the land sharks! It comes from somewhere deep in their herding heritage, I suppose, but these are very bitey puppies! For this reason, a GSD can be a trying breed with young children, who often become unwitting targets for playful biting. If not addressed, this shyness can transform into fear-based aggression. These dogs are busybodies, and they want to know where you are and what you are doing at ALL times — in the event that your actions could compromise the security of the house and the family. German Shepherds have a double coat, which equals twice as much fur all of your floor, your sofa, your clothes, etc. German Shepherds like to play rough Shepherds have a tendency to rough-house with both people and other dogs. Dog owners with other breeds have told me that it took them a while to realize that our shepherds were playing with their dogs — and not trying to kill them. In my experience, even in play, shepherds like to go for the throat and get into some heavy-duty wrestling. If it hurts your feelings that some people are automatically scared of your dog, a German Shepherd may not be right for you. If you have a German Shepherd, let this motivate you to make your dog a great breed ambassador and help change negative stereotypes. See Also 10 Videos that show how Bulldogs make perfect friends of babies Be prepared for a potentially vocal dog GSDs also have a tendency to be vocal. Other dogs were more barky, especially at strangers walking past our fence or at other dogs. Pyrrha is an uncharacteristically quiet German Shepherd; but our little Eden loves barking, barking just for the fun of it! Be aware of this issue, and be prepared to start training your dog when and how to be quiet. Consider a large number of health issues German shepherds are famous for their litany of health issues. On a range from more benign allergies to life-threatening osteosarcoma, hemangioma , shepherds seem to have them all. The breed even has predispositions to diseases that seem to occur exclusively within the purebred line e. Find a good vet preferably one with shepherd experience , and start taking measures to keep your shepherd trim and healthy. German Shepherds are large, active, athletic, and highly intelligent dogs. What this means is that if they get bored, you are going to seriously regret bringing this fuzzy monster into your house. Try obedience classes, agility, flyball, Schutzhund, herding , nose work, etc. Shepherds can excel at many canine sports and activities! German Shepherd Purebred Puppy If you want a purebred puppy, do your research about the difference between working-line and show-line German Shepherds. This can be a touchy subject for some, but in general, I feel that the bottom line is this: Working-line dogs are sounder and healthier because they are bred to do a job. What you must know This post is a great introduction to the topic of working-line vs. Start researching how to determine what kind of GSD suits you and your family. Our foster German Shepherd Puppy Trina. The only downside of rescuing a purebred is that you have no health guarantees and no knowledge of their parents or often of their backgrounds. German Shepherd as a companion Pyrrha, for example, appears to be an American-line shepherd bred for companionship by a backyard breeder. Eden, on the other hand , is a German-line shepherd whose parents were imports titled in Schutzhund. They also showed dogs, so she has a more sloped topline than Pyrrha and slightly more exaggerated hocks. German shepherds still rank no. Consider it! Source: Wikimedia Commons. ALL puppies require hard work, devotion, and lots and lots of patience. But the joy they bring?