growth chart for golden retriever puppy

A Golden Retriever is a wonderful family dog, but it needs space for playtime and exercise to lead a healthy life. You will also need time to train and socialize your dog. Here are some things to know about Golden Retrievers before bringing one home: Size Golden Retrievers are medium-sized dogs that can grow up to 22 to 24 inches. They can be between 65 and 75 lbs. These dogs need space and can also eat a lot, especially if they are active. A beautiful Golden Retriever with a bandana on his neck stands outdoors. Grooming Golden Retrievers may not need as much grooming as other dogs, but they can shed a lot and must have their coats brushed more during those times. They will shed their outer coat once or twice a year, so a daily brushing would help remove dead fur. You should also bring your dog to a groomer for regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and the occasional shower and tooth brushing. But other than that, most Golden Retrievers are not high-maintenance pets. Exercise And Training Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, so they need a lot of exercise and activity. You need room on your property so your dog can play and run around. A Golden Retriever takes a lot of training and a healthy diet to run so fast! Early socialization is also important for sporting dogs because it makes them easier to train. Golden Retrievers are easy-going animals, but socialization makes it easier for them to adapt to any situation and makes them ideal companions for children and other animals. Finally, these dogs love the water! The breed was meant to retrieve waterfowl such as ducks and geese. Your Golden Retriever will be fond of fetching things from any body of water, whether a pool or a lake. Health And Life Expectancy Though Golden Retrievers are one of the healthiest breeds, they are also prone to health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and heart disease. Golden Retriever standing and guards over a property. The life expectancy for the breed is 10 to 12 years, although in some rare cases where Goldens live up to 15 years. New Jersey has many breeders, but you should find a reputable one instead of landing at a puppy mill that breeds unhealthy pups and follows unethical breeding practices. Searching dog information, breeders and rescues online. Many search engines like Google have a rating and review system, so check these reviews to see what clients say about the breeder. You could also do some old-fashioned research by asking friends and neighbors where or how they got their pets. Visit a dog kennel or a veterinarian and ask them if they know ethical breeders in the area. Combining the results from your research could help you find a breeder that would fit your budget and timeline. They can help you find an ethical and responsible breeder so you can choose where to get your puppy. You can talk to them and discuss their dogs. You can ask them about the sires and dams in their kennels and how often they have a litter. Visit The Breeder Once you have a list of potential breeders, visit their facilities and see the condition of the pups and their dams. Ask about their breeding program, and check the condition of the pups and the state of their operations. Choose a breeder that makes the health of their dogs a priority, both for the dam and the puppies. These are all essential to finding healthy and well-socialized pups. They focus on the health and well-being of their puppies, so the dog litters are small. They have bred Golden Retrievers that have won in many dog shows and have excellent health certifications. Golden Retriever puppy with a ribbon on a plain background. If you want to get a puppy from them, you must submit an application to be included on their waiting list. The dogs are in a cage-free environment, allowing them to grow healthy and well-adjusted. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. The dogs live in a beautiful house, and the breeder takes the time to prepare the puppies before sending them off! They highly recommend the breeder. Breeder Details:. Here, all that is raised and grown is nurtured with love. They compete in different dog sports and venues. We only breed dogs that have full health clearance. We take pride in our dogs. To consecutively produce Golden Retrievers with good instincts, who are healthy, and sound in body and mind, our deliberate breeding program is extremely selective. Health is of the utmost importance in our breeding program. Temperament and trainability is vital to our breeding program. As a family breed, a Golden should be friendly, reliable and trustworthy. We intensively train dogs for different purpose, and show them in different venues. Whether we are looking for a show prospect, a performance dog or just a companion, intelligence, sweetness and an eagerness to learn are valuable assets to success. Our carefully bred, well-nurtured puppies are purposed to be honeysweet and bright. A precious, pleasant and synergetic human-dog partnership is what we aspire to bring to our dog owners. We believe form follows function. Even tough judging dogs is subjective, an adequate, versatile dog is our preference. We strive to breed balanced, moderate, and athletic Golden Retrievers that fit the breed standard and have good gun dog instincts. Thank you for visiting our website! Please feel free to contact us for any inquries. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New Jersey Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New Jersey? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New Jersey? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have provided a large amount of land fenced in just for our Goldens to enjoy the sunshine and run and play together. English Goldens are the Ultimate family pet!!! They are very intelligent, kind, loving, fun, obedient, easy to train, and have an exceptional eagerness to please. Our Goldens are loyal and devoted companions and are particularly patient with children. You will be amazed with one of our English Golden Puppies who have a calm and mellow temperament. Goldens excel at almost everything. Being a dog breeder herself she knew exactly where to go, ask the right questions, and read the Russian Pedigrees and Health Clearances. After searching the European Goldens for some time, she found 2 English Cream Golden Puppies who came from the very best breeders in Russia. The puppies were beautiful, friendly and had the International Champion Lines we were looking for. When the time was right Sasha invited Anya to come to Russia where she attended one of the largest dog shows in the world and visited many Golden breeders. An experience Anya will never forget! Then 2 years later Anya flew back to Russia again coming home with another beautiful English Golden. We decided to stay mostly with the Russian Lines as they had the look, temperament, Champion Lines and were happy and healthy. To enhance our lines we imported a few Goldens from the Ukraine who also have the same qualities as our other English Goldens. All of our Goldens come from International Champions and International Champion Lines, also with health clearances, mostly from Russia. We spent a great deal of time in choosing our breeding dogs, not settling for the next one available. At Icewind we have made a commitment to the breed not to have any ICT affected puppies. Bringing a new puppy into the family is a financial and emotional investment. For a better understanding visit our website adult page for the links to the Genetic Veterinary Sciences. The benefits noted can be found on the Internet. All Icewind puppies receive ENS and are well socialized with grandchildren, other pets, friends and family. Also included are age appropriate Vaccines, dewormings, AKC papers, a lifetime health guarantee and lifetime breeder support. Please read through our website there is a wealth of information available. We are very proud of our testimonial page where you can read and learn experiences from other people and families who now own an Icewind English Cream Golden Retriever. There are many AKC Titles you can compete for. More information can be found at akc. We believe young puppies should have the opportunity to develop emotionally, socially and physically from the moment they are born. We imprint each puppy daily by touching and handling. Military for their canine training programs to give the dogs a superior advantage in life. There were five benefits observed in canines that were exposed to the stimulation exercises. Improved cardio vascular performance heart rate stronger heart beats, stronger adrenal glands, more tolerance to stress and greater resistance to disease. Buying a genetically superior puppy meaning the most well-bred puppy will reduce the number of trips to the Veterinarian you have to make in the long run. Watch your puppy grow from Newborn to 8 weeks old!!! Accepting Deposits Now on our Upcoming Litters!!! New Born. Questions about Golden Retriever puppies for sale in New Jersey? We have answers. Give me an overview of Golden Retriever puppies for sale in New Jersey. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in New Jersey come at many different prices, it all depends on what kind of Golden Retriever for sale in New Jersey you want. There are many options based on coat color, shape of the eyes round or almond , gender, breeder experience and location, as well as whether or not the pup has had its shots already! Can I keep a Golden Retriever in an apartment? However, you must be aware that your Golden Retriever New Jersey is going to need at least 1 hour of exercise per day, which you can split into two minute sessions, and many, many sessions outside to go do his or her business! Why is Uptown Puppies so unique? Uptown Puppies exists to put a spotlight on all the very BEST Golden Retriever breeders New Jersey, businesses and companies out there, and connect them with loving families who will take really good care of their Golden Retriever puppies for sale New Jersey. What is a New Jersey puppy mill? Puppy mills are horrid places that keep dogs and New Jersey Golden Retriever puppies for sale in small cages, often stacked up, one upon the other. The New Jersey Golden Retriever breeders and businesses involved in these puppy mills look upon these animals as trade and commodities other than beautiful living creatures that need love and care. How does Uptown Puppies work? You can always trust Uptown Puppies! How often must I feed my Golden Retriever? Golden Retrievers in New Jersey are medium sized dogs that run around a lot and love to play. Therefore, they burn many calories during the day, and require a lot of food. When your Goldie is just a pup, feed him three times a day at the same time every day. Once your Goldie is bigger, make it twice a day. Golden Retrievers for sale New Jersey need high-quality, healthy dog food! Are Golden Retrievers needy? What kind of coat does a Golden Retriever have? A Golden Retriever for sale New Jersey has a dense coat which is, of course, water-repellent, with a thick undercoat underneath. It loves the water and swimming, and therefore needs this type of coat. A Golden Retriever New Jersey sheds easily, and a lot!

By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. August 9, As a dog parent to a French Bulldog puppy, we may often find ourselves conflicted over what to feed it. What is the best food for a French Bulldog puppy? What food will give it all the important nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy adult? Read on to discover more. Little wonder that this breed of dogs is prone to obesity once they grow up. This means as a dog owner, the responsibility of providing them with healthy and well-balanced meals lies on you alone. The dietary requirements of French bulldogs change as they age. For example, the dog food suitable for an adult French Bulldog may contain too small an amount of calcium to sustain a growing puppy. A French Bulldog puppy also needs the right combination of fats, fibers, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to maintain optimal health. They do not have any major health concerns either. Listed below are some of the best foods for a French Bulldog puppy. Made from chicken, rice, and dried beet pulp, Royal Canin French Puppy Food contains a lot of nutritional supplements. The fish oil, vitamins, and minerals like calcium iodate, folic acid, and zinc oxide work to keep their coat healthy and strengthen their bones and teeth. Royal Canin also has an adult formula variant available. So, transitioning from puppy to adult food will be easy on your pet. You know the drill, no preservatives, no color, and no flavor, just plain old nutrition. It is made with whole grains, high-quality deboned chicken, and antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits. The formula encourages growth and development in French Bulldog puppies. It also aids digestion. D is considered to be the best food for French bulldogs with skin allergies. Formulated with grain-free but fiber-rich carbohydrates, this limited-ingredient diet contains salmon as a single source of protein, which makes it great for Frenchies with allergies. Packed with venison, lamb, and duck, this recipe also contains fresh fruits and veggies. Taste of the Wild provides quality nutrition and the probiotics required for healthy digestion. This recipe also contains less fat, mostly derived from chicken fat and salmon oil. As French Bulldogs are prone to obesity, the formula of Taste of the Wild can help in the battle of the issue. Frenchies have a huge personality, yes, but they still have a small frame which means they require small bite-sized kibbles. Lucky for your pup, Purina Pure understands that. This formula e contains grains in the form of rice, which is ideal for Frenchies who are prone to allergies or have a sensitive stomach. It is loaded with all the essential nutrients required for your Frenchie to transition from a little puppy to a full-fledged adult. The above-listed options are the best French bulldog food recipes of .When looking for dog food for your French Bulldog pup, ensure the food you choose supplies them with all the necessary dietary requirements while keeping a check on their calorie intake. Your puppy gaining a few pounds may not look like much of a problem but as French Bulldogs are prone to obesity, it can escalate to a full-fledged health issue really quick. Frenchies are small dogs, so their gut health is a delicate matter. When you go food hunting for your Frenchie, make sure you pick a formula that meets these requirements: Wholesome ingredients High-quality protein sourced from animals like poultry and fish Low-fat content. French Bulldog puppies have unique dietary needs that require special attention. There are a few key factors to consider. First off, opt for puppy-specific formulas that meet their nutritional requirements. Avoid recipes with fillers or artificial additives — go for wholesome kibble made especially for small dogs like Frenchies. A balanced diet is crucial in preventing common issues such as paw licking or upset tummies. With proper nutrition, your Frenchie pup will be ready to conquer the world one playful bark at a time. This premium dog food provides a balanced diet with a combination of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It contains essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth and support a strong immune system. One of the key features of Royal Canin Small Puppy is its small kibble size, which makes it easier for Frenchie puppies to chew and digest. This formula includes prebiotics to support digestive health and aid in nutrient absorption. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. This grain-inclusive formula includes deboned chicken as the primary source of protein along with wholesome grains like brown rice. The blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in Wellness Complete Health Puppy ensures that your furry friend receives essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe also incorporates omega fatty acids for healthy brain development and DHA for optimal eye health. We have never used this brand but I hear great things about it. This formula features deboned chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support muscle development. What sets Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe apart is its inclusion of whole grains like brown rice and barley. These grains offer a good source of energy and fiber while promoting healthy digestion. The recipe also includes fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes to provide additional nutrients. Royal Canin has been our go to french bulldog puppy food. After trying multiple brands such as Purina, Stella and Chewy, and Merrick no large quantity available for purchase, small bags got expensive , Royal Canin has never let us down. We have never noticed skin problems, intolerance, and poops have always been great. Other brands have caused vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions to name a few. French Bulldog puppies are energetic and growing rapidly, which means they need frequent meals throughout the day. It is recommended to feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. This regular feeding schedule helps maintain their energy levels and supports proper growth. Follow the recommended portion sizes based on their age and weight. Different brands may have specific guidelines tailored for French Bulldog puppies or small breed puppies in general. For puppies aged weeks: 1 cup of food per meal. Victor Ocean Fish All Life Stages Dog Food Remember that these portions can vary depending on individual factors such as activity level and metabolism. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if you notice significant weight gain or loss. Monitor their weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. While puppies naturally gain weight as they grow, excessive weight gain can lead to health issues such as joint problems. Keep an eye on their body condition and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about their weight. If your puppy is gaining too much weight, consider reducing the portion sizes slightly or switching to a lower-calorie puppy food formula. On the other hand, if they are not gaining enough weight or appear undernourished, consult with your vet to determine if an increase in portion size or a different type of food is necessary. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your French Bulldog puppy receives the nutrition they need during this crucial stage of growth. Providing proper nutrition will help set the foundation for a healthy and happy adult French Bulldog. Feeding your Frenchie the wrong food can lead to serious health issues and discomfort. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be highly toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. Onions and Garlic: A Recipe for Anemia While onions and garlic might add flavor to our meals, they pose a significant risk to our four-legged companions. This could lead to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications for your French Bulldog. The exact reason behind this toxicity is still unknown; however, ingestion of these fruits has been linked to kidney failure in some dogs. Xylitol: Sweetness Turns Sour Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products like gum or candy. While it may be harmless for humans, it can be extremely dangerous for dogs. If ingested by your French Bulldog, xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in seizures, liver failure, or even death. Opt for high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their needs. Look for options that include meat protein sources like chicken or salmon, as these are beneficial for their muscle development and overall health. Make sure the food you choose contains adequate amounts of vitamins and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. Avoid foods with excessive fat content that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues such as loose stools. Stick to dog-friendly fruits and veggies as treats instead. Chicken fat as dog food High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. Providing a healthy diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Opting for lean proteins like chicken and turkey ensures they receive high-quality nutrients without excessive fat content. These proteins promote muscle development, support growth, and provide essential amino acids for overall health. Opt for natural alternatives that are free from these artificial additives. Whole Grains: Nourishing Carbohydrate Sources Carbohydrates play a role in providing energy to your puppy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Instead of fillers like corn or wheat that offer limited nutritional value, look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats. These whole food ingredients provide fiber, vitamins, minerals while promoting steady energy levels throughout the day. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat To maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat on your furry friend, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. Sources like fish oil offer an abundance of these beneficial fats that nourish their skin from within. Not only do omega-3s contribute to a shiny coat but they also help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and overall health. By opting for lean proteins, avoiding artificial additives, incorporating whole grains, and including omega-3 fatty acids, you are providing the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a happy and active French Bulldog. So be mindful of what goes into their food bowl to ensure they grow up strong and free from unnecessary health problems. Now that you understand the importance of healthy ingredients in food, you can make informed choices when selecting the very best dog food options for your furry companion. Keep their health in mind as you provide them with nourishing meals that will support their growth and overall well-being. By following these feeding guidelines, you can provide your Frenchie with the balanced nutrition they need to stay in optimal health. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and respiratory difficulties. To keep track of their weight effectively, consider using a digital scale designed for pets or consult with your veterinarian. Adjusting Portion Sizes French Bulldogs have different dietary requirements based on their activity level and age. Puppies require more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development compared to adult dogs. To determine the appropriate portion size for your puppy or adult dog, consider consulting with animal nutritionists or your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on factors such as breed-specific needs and individual metabolism. Excessive treats can contribute to weight gain if not properly regulated. Instead of relying solely on treats for positive reinforcement, try using praise or playtime as alternative rewards. Be mindful of the calorie content in both regular meals and treats. Opt for healthier options like small pieces of lean meat or fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. You could even use it as a meal topper to make meal time more fun. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!

Clothing and Accessories 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Unless otherwise stated, original delivery costs, Import Fees Deposit and return shipping for change of mind returns are not refunded. Change of mind returns within 30 days of receipt of delivery are easy with our online Returns Support Centre. Please note that it can take up to 15 days for an item to reach us once you return it. Please use the Returns Support Centre to return a defective item within 30 days of receipt of delivery. If you need to return a defective item outside of the day window, please Contact us. Third-party sellers on Amazon. To determine whether items sold and fulfilled by a third-party seller can be returned, check the returns policy set by the seller. Precious Jewellery 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Fashion or Imitation Jewellery, Eyewear and Watches 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Watches 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Luggage and Handbags 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Shoes 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Tyres except car tyres , Rims and Oversized Items Automobiles 30 Days Returnable You may return most new and unopened Amazon International Store items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the price you paid. Disclaimer: The price shown above includes all applicable taxes and fees. The information provided above is for reference purposes only. Products may go out of stock and delivery estimates may change at any time. For additional information, please contact the manufacturer or desertcart customer service. While desertcart makes reasonable efforts to only show products available in your country, some items may be cancelled if they are prohibited for import in India. For more details, please visit our Support Page. We can deliver the Chubby Puppies Single Pack Golden Doodle speedily without the hassle of shipping, customs or duties. We have a dedicated team who specialize in quality control and efficient delivery. Since , desertcart has been delivering a wide range of products to customers and fulfilling their desires. You will find several positive reviews by desertcart customers on portals like Trustpilot, etc. The website uses an HTTPS system to safeguard all customers and protect financial details and transactions done online. The company uses the latest upgraded technologies and software systems to ensure a fair and safe shopping experience for all customers. Your details are highly secure and guarded by the company using encryption and other latest softwares and technologies.

We respect your privacy. Thank you! As a reputable and compassionate French Bulldog breeder, we pride ourselves on the health testing, beauty, and personality of our Sires and Dams. Thoroughly vetted breeding stock, along with over a decade of experience, research, education, and a dedication to bettering the breed, sets our puppies up for success with their new families. We incorporate the principles taught by Dr. Gale Watkins through the AviDog University, cultivating our puppies' confidence through proper socialization. Meaning, that our puppies grow up in my, and my children's arms. They are provided with age-appropriate enrichment which ultimately gives you the most balanced and well-behaved adult French Bulldog. We dedicate our lives to cultivating a well-behaved and loving member of the family that will provide you with comfort, humor, and companionship for many years- and this is priceless. NW Frenchies offers stud services to approved females. Our Sires offer the finest combination of bloodlines and are fully health tested. He has completed and is cleared for hip and elbow x-rays, thyroid blood panel, patella grade, heart auscultation by a veterinary cardiology specialist, and eye exam by a veterinary optometry specialist in accordance with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals guidelines health testing. He is the ideal representation of every quality a French Bulldog should have. Misha has fathered many healthy litters. Eager to bring a French bulldog puppy home? Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Here at Frenchie Kisses Kennel you will not find "a breeder. We maintain a small Hobby program and breed for quality, rather than quantity. This ensures that you get a puppy that is healthy, beautiful, and has a great temperament. It is very convenient being close to Portland, Oregon because it makes for a nice day trip for our adoptive families in the Portland area to visit their puppy regularly as it grows. Since My son and Daughter In Law work at home we are able to spend time both indoors and outdoors with all of the animals. However, French Bulldogs are more suited for indoor living as opposed to outdoors. We do like to bring them out when the weather is moderate. At Frenchie Kisses Kennel we keep a close watch on the dogs as we wander about and if they seem a bit tired we simply return them to our air conditioned or heated in the winter home. Luckily the weather here in Washington State does not have horrible extremes so air conditioning and a good wood stove keeps their life very comfortable. French Bulldogs overheat easily because of their overly large chest and compacted air way, along with their insistence on being active. Their bulk and being Brachycephalic makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, Frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. We are very cautious when exercising them during hot or humid weather, and at times must insist they take a break. Though they tend to love the water, they must not be left alone in water as they may not be able to get out after exhausting themselves trying to swim. French Bulldogs are known as non swimmers. That's not to say that they are dogs of little brain. It's more like their "can do," can't keep up with their "want to. We love that the dogs want to be with us, very close by when we are walking around on the property. Washington is Cougar country and we would not want them to wander far so we do keep a close watch on them when we have them out. They all tend to get along with the cats and we are working hard to convince them that all animals are our friends. Since the Frenchies are so rambunctious it is hard to convince all of our pets that they are sweet, friendly dogs. I have my mind set that all my pets are going to get along and I am hoping that my will is stronger than a Bulldog! The puppies are exposed to the cats at a young age to instill a respect for other animals. Our cats are everywhere we now have five the puppies can have access to. We also have volunteer feral cats, that we are pretty sure come from a catch and release program in our area as they just appear with ears notched and previously spayed or neutered. The puppies only meet one of them He has become an outside pet only does not like to be confined kitty and occasionally comes to the door to see what is going on. He is friendly with the dogs and puppies. Three of our cats are both indoors and outdoors so the puppies learn early on that cats are their friends. We now have three Chickens that wander the property during the day. We hope to also use them to condition the puppies to being comfortable with birds. This makes for very sweet gentle puppies as they mature. We are also able to care for them individually if they become sick and give them excellent medical attention. We have a wonderful vet who has taught us how to do much of the necessary medical care at home since we are 45 minutes from any Veterinarian. Sometimes without the training he has provided us we would lose puppies due to no access to immediate care. We can and do give mouth to mouth resuscitation if needed. We will do anything necessary to save a puppy or dog. We love them for the wonderful little family additions that they are. We now offer training packages for our puppies: Child Tolerance. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington work? If you speak to different French Bulldog breeders Washington, they'll all have their own views on what to feed these dogs. The truth is that every pup is different, with its own likes and dislikes. Some may refuse to eat fancy foods, while others will gobble down anything you put in front of them. We encourage you to read reviews, speak with your vet, and learn about the character of your French Bulldog Washington to find the right diet. What is the difference between a purebred dog and a mixed breed dog? A purebred dog is one that has been bred by crossing a male and a female of the same established breed, whereas a mixed breed dog is one that is made by crossing two different breeds. French Bulldog puppies Washington are purebreds, but you can find some mixed breeds involving Frenchies too, such as French Bulldog x Boston Terrier mixes. What makes Frenchies such expensive dogs? If you want to buy a French Bulldog for sale in Washington, you'll need to set aside a little extra cash than you would for other breeds. Frenchies have higher price tags on average because the females need to be artificially inseminated and usually have to have C-sections too. Basically, Washington French Bulldog breeders spend more money breeding these dogs, so they have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs. Can I find very cheap Frenchies on Uptown? We understand that you might be looking for a cheap French Bulldog for sale Washington to match your budget, and we aim to do all we can to match you with a dog that meets your needs. The featured breeders and businesses of Uptown aim to offer the healthiest dogs, bred the right way, in order to provide top tier value for money. Their prices aren't necessarily the lowest, but you'll be getting total transparency, in-depth health checks, and more for your money. Shouldn't I buy a shelter dog instead? Animal shelters do really respectable work and help to find new homes and happy-ever-afters for dogs that have been neglected or abandoned in the past. We love shelters, but there are some situations where you might be better off looking for French Bulldogs for sale Washington from breeders instead. Breeders, unlike shelters, will be able to provide you with health histories of each animal, providing more reassurance and peace of mind. How do I know that my Frenchie will be healthy? The breeders and businesses of the Uptown network uphold the highest standards of animal welfare and care, so you can rest assured that they only sell the healthiest and happiest French Bulldog puppies in Washington. They also run nose-to-tail checks on every Washington French Bulldog for sale, before selling it, so you'll get a full overview of your dog's health condition before you bring it home. How much exercise do these dogs need? French Bulldog puppies for sale Washington don't have particularly high energy levels or exercise requirements. About hours of exercise per day is all they really need, so one moderate or a couple of short walks should suffice. They like to play too, so will enjoy having some toys and games around the house. What are Frenchies like? All Washington French Bulldogs for sale are different, but this breed is known for a few key things, including its intelligence, adaptability, friendliness, and affectionate nature. Frenchies tend to be very easygoing, cuddly kinds of dogs that get along well with folks of all ages. They're super cute too, sure to brighten up your life with wagging tails and happy little faces. What are some health issues connected with Frenchies? French Bulldogs for sale in Washington can lead long, peaceful lives of up to 14 years on average, but health conditions can come along as they get older. Common complaints regarding this breed include snoring, wheezing, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and general bone weakness. Be sure to avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders if you want to find the healthiest Washington French Bulldog puppy for sale with the longest life expectancy. How can Uptown help me find a Frenchie pup? At Uptown, we've put together a network of some of the best breeders and businesses from all across the US, including some of the top sellers of French Bulldog puppies for sale in Washington. To find your dream dog, all you need to do is look at the pups that are currently for sale, find one that meets your needs, and then speak with the seller to make the necessary arrangements.

Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for San Antonio Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in San Antonio? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in San Antonio? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. A healthy male Golden Retriever weighs between 65 to 75 pounds while growing up to 23 to 24 inches tall. A female weighs between 55 to 65pounds and can grow up to .How long does it take a Golden Retriever to reach its full size? For Golden Retrievers, full physical maturity takes one to two years. Once this is attained, its bones become fully grown and can perform the same amount of physical exercise as an adult dog. Do Golden Retrievers smell? Golden Retrievers often smell bad because of its thick water-resistant coat. You can, however, maintain its cleanliness to control its bad odor. How can you keep a Golden Retriever healthy? There are several ways to keep this dog healthy few of which are high-quality food, providing it with plenty of clean and freshwater, developing a good feeding schedule, etc. How many times a day should a Golden Retriever be fed? The required food for a Golden Retriever is dependent on its age, activity level, size and built. Vets recommend about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food per day for two meals. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? This dog is a sporting breed and therefore requires a whole lot of exercise when fully grown, high-intensity exercise is very beneficial to it. Is it alright to get a Golden Retriever in a hot climate? The Golden Retriever can thrive well in hot climates; all it requires is a shaded and aerated area with lots of water. However, it should not be allowed to exercise too much in the heat. What age can a Golden Retriever Puppy be brought home? A puppy Retriever should not be taken from its mother earlier than when it is 8 weeks old. This is because up until that age, it gets important socialization and learns important skills from its mother and siblings. Should a Golden Retriever be left indoors or outdoors? A Golden Retriever naturally wants to be with its family, if its family is indoor, you will find it right there with them. Does a Golden Retriever bark a lot? The Golden Retriever is not one to bark a lot except in cases of boredom or mental stimulation. Are you interested in purchasing a Golden Retriever? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We have answers. It's a straightforward process. Just begin by browsing the darling doggies on the site -- maybe with something special like a San Antonio Golden Retriever for sale in mind. Next, contact the breeder. Get any questions answered and talk about transportation options. In no time, your dream puppy will be in your home! It would be great if you could visit all of the Golden Retriever breeders in San Antonio. But is that realistic? And it would only show you a fraction of the puppies you can see on Uptown. We've created a safe and secure place to browse pups bred by the best breeders and businesses in San Antonio and across the country. What's a backyard breeder? Not to be confused with a puppy mill, which churns out pups by the masses, backyard breeders are unskilled amateurs who dabble in dog breeding. Both puppy mills and backyard breeders often have puppies with health problems. You can have full confidence that none of the San Antonio Golden Retriever breeders or companies in our network are of this sort. Each of the Golden Retriever breeders San Antonio has to offer usually has different transportation policies. You can contact them to find out what they are. While you're speaking with them, you can also get lots of information about the pup you're interested in, from health and history to its various milestones. Are Golden Retrievers available through Uptown right now? But that answer could and often does change. Any of the San Antonio Golden Retriever puppies for sale you see today might be gone tomorrow. We never pressure potential new owners to buy -- puppies tend to be their own best salespeople! Just understand that puppies, especially popular breeds, generally don't wait for the indecisive. Because we go to great lengths to ensure you get a healthy puppy -- with documented proof! Any Golden Retriever for sale in San Antonio through Uptown can have a comprehensive nose-to-tail health examination that checks out everything from ears, noses, and eyes to respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems, to name a few areas. How much exercise do Golden Retrievers need? This is not a breed for couch potatoes! Golden Retrievers have energy to spare and love getting out for brisk walks. Two daily walks of 30 minutes each are the norm. But as these pooches were originally bred for day-long hunting excursions, they can often go for longer walks. With a few games of fetch in between! Are the Golden Retriever puppies for sale San Antonio breeders have good for apartments? Any of the San Antonio Golden Retrievers for sale you select will do okay in an apartment. Exercise is key. If they're not working off all of that energy, they can get rambunctious indoors -- and may start chewing stuff! So while they can acclimate to limited living spaces -- their gentle temperaments help with that -- a home with a yard is ideal. What should I feed my Golden Retriever? Should you choose a Golden Retriever for sale San Antonio breeders and businesses are offering, you will want to focus on protein. Many owners like kibble as it also helps with dental hygiene. That's certainly an option, and one we wouldn't tell you not to explore. We love reputable shelters. We're just very different, and one big difference is information. Shelter dogs come with very little info, while any of the Golden Retrievers for sale San Antonio breeders and companies list with us come with a wealth of invaluable information. My account Welcome to Stay Golden Kennels. Getting our first Golden was much more difficult than we would have imagined. Between online scams and large puppy mill breeders it was way too hard to find a well bred puppy to welcome into our home. After our experience we wanted to help other families find happy and healthy Goldens to welcome into their family. Our experience was that large retail breeders puppy mills produce large quantities of puppies, so many that they have to resort to isolating them in cages where the often don't receive enough love and attention. They are then shipped to retail stores where they arrive unsocialized and traumatized. Many of these puppies tend to have behavioral issues when they mature. Our puppies grow up with their Mom and Dad as members of our family in our home. They grow up playing in a yard with their pack. The result is confident, well adjusted puppies that learn to trust people and socialize with other dogs from an early age. Meet the Parents! Nala is currently 3 years old and weighs 65 pounds. She is very athletic, obedient and is a great retriever her hobbies include playing fetch and going for long walks. She has a natural love of water and loves jumping in lakes and getting baths. She has a long, silky, golden coat that glistens in the sunlight. Nala is very intelligent and has mastered an array of tricks, her favorite being shake. He has a very fluffy, cream colored coat. His hobbies include getting treats and relaxing in the grass. Marshall has a very calm personality and is very gentle. He loves being playful and showing affection to his family. Connecting responsible pet owners with quality loving pets.

Labrador Retriever Stages of Development Labrador Retriever Stages of Development If you are new to the Labrador Retriever world and you have a new puppy, you may be wondering when Lab puppies finally calm down. First, for those that do not know, the Labrador Retriever breed is not for those that want to lay back on the couch and toss back a few beers. Labs are people dogs meaning that they are very sociable and do not like to be left on their own all the time. They have a great deal of enthusiasm and energy. That is why it is important for this breed to get plenty of exercise and social interaction. We did a lot of research about the breed and found that many people have their own ideas on the age of maturation. In all honesty, there are differing levels of energy that the Lab will go through during its life and from the age of about 10 weeks old to 5 years old, the energy level can remain quite high. Stage 2: Toddler — This stage starts around weeks old and goes until about 5 months old. The energy level is quite high at this time as the puppy is learning all it can about the world and go through many biological changes. It tests its environment with its mouth and as it gets towards the end of this stage, it begins to chew on everything it can to try and get relief from teething. It is usually to have some terry cloth towels that have been soaked in water and sitting in your freezer, waiting to be gnawed on! Stage 3: Adolescent — This is a tough stage and starts around 5 months old and go anywhere up to a year, depending on the dog. Some would call it the terrible twos because all of a sudden, your sweet Lab baby has forgotten everything you have taught it and has the manners of any human teenager out there! Sure, they know not to go on the couch but they will test you again and make sure you meant it. This is when you need to reinforce all your training because if you let them get away with it now, it is harder to break them of it later! Stage 4: Maturing — Usually this starts around a year old and goes until the 5-year old stage. The level of energy is still high and is equal to a college student or young twenty-something adult. They get more comfortable with their surroundings and take a little more time to enjoy life and the company of their owner and family. This is more of an enjoyable time with your family Lab! Stage 5: Senior — Around 5 years and up, the little puppy you once knew with all the energy level of an energizer bunny is there in spirit but the body is slowing down more. They still have a good amount of energy but nothing compared o stages 2 and 3! Life is good and comfortable. So, when does a Lab puppy start to calm down? Well, generally it is around stage 4 but can happen before that stage. The one thing people with Labrador Retrievers, or any dog for that matter, need to understand is that each dog is different. Yes, there are certain traits in the Lab breed for which we eagerly welcomed them into our home, but just as human identical twins can have opposite personalities, so can your Labrador Retriever. For example, if you are in stage 2, there is housebreaking and teething to deal with. Your puppy also needs help with getting rid of some of that pent up energy it has and it is your responsibility to give it safe and structured ways to expel that energy. Short walks work well on soft surfaces for young pups as well as schedule play times. Whatever you choose to do, high energy levels in Labs are normal during certain stages — just remember to enjoy them while you can because your Lab will only be a puppy once. Post navigation. Puppy growth is also related to proper diet: weekly growth rate varies from breed to breed but proper nutrition of the puppy influences each individual's growth curve. The diet of a growing puppy requires more protein and healthy fats, such as the omega-3 DHA Regardless of breed, all puppies are born dependent on mom, so proper nutrition of mom during pregnancy helps in the early stages of puppy development. The first months play a crucial role in determining a dog's lifelong health and well-being. Prenatal period: mother's gestation The time puppies spend in the womb is usually called the prenatal period. It lasts about days, and the puppy's development begins during this stage. A pregnant mother should exercise less and receive more care in the last weeks before delivery-she should not be exposed to unnecessary stress. The health of the puppy is influenced by the mother as early as the prenatal stage: the amount of stress and hormones the mother secretes is transmitted to the puppies through the placenta, and this can affect the growth of the fetus as well as any intestinal parasites such as the ascarids , can pass from the placenta to the fetus even before birth or enter the milk through the mammary glands. For this reason, our breeding philosophy requires us to avoid all forms of chemicals by following a natural supplementation protocol during gestation as well as then natural deworming on the puppies. Prenatal stress can affect puppies' brains and organs, causing them to establish behavior in stressful situations before they are even born. It may make puppies less curious, they may have reduced learning ability, they may be more aggressive or have changes in sexual behavior. During pregnancy, the mother needs supplementation and amore nutritious diet than usual because she no longer eats only for herself. Neonatal period Stage beginning from birth to the second week of life. At birth, pups are blind, deaf and toothless, unable to regulate body temperature, urinate or defecate on their own. Pups depend on their mother and siblings in the litter, staying very close together to preserve body temperature. A puppy separated from this situation can quickly die of hypothermia, which leads to a drop in body temperature. If a puppy is isolated from its mother and siblings, it can quickly cool down and cry to alert its mother of its situation. Read also: neurosensory stimulation program Biosensor Puppies first experience the feeling of being petted when they are licked by their mother to keep them clean, to keep her den clean and also to stimulate them to defecate and urinate. From birth, pups are able to use their sense of smell and touch, which helps them orient themselves to find the udders that carry their mother's scent. The first milk produced by the mother, called colostrum, is rich in antibodies that provide passive immunity and help protect puppies from disease during these first weeks of life. For the first two weeks of life, puppies sleep almost 90 percent of the time, are active only 10 percent of the day, spending their waking time sucking milk, and all their energy is channeled into growing so that their birth weight doubles the first week. At this stage the puppies are not able to support their weight but are able to crawl with the movements of their front paws, however, the mother will always try to position herself as close to them and group them by bringing them to herself with her muzzle. This limited locomotion, however, provides the necessary stimulus to develop the puppy's muscles and coordination so that, day after day, the puppies will be able to reach their mother even on their own. Transition period This stage is from the second to the fourth week of life. The third week of life brings major changes in the puppy: hearing and vision are not developed from birth. Eyes begin to open during this period, eyelids between ten and sixteen days, and hearing begins to develop around two weeks. This stage allows puppies to "feel" their new world: they learn to recognize the appearance of their mother, other dogs, and begin to expand their vocabulary from grunts and yelps. Puppies generally stand by day 15 and take their first wobbly walk by day .At the age of three weeks, puppy development advances from the neonatal period to the transitional period. This is a period of rapid physical and sensory development, during which pups move from total dependence on mother to minimal independence. They begin to play with their littermates, learn about their environment, the pack, and may be ready to taste wet food never dry in weaning other than breast milk in moderation. After three weeks puppy teeth begin to emerge until all baby teeth have come out at about weeks of age. They begin to control their needs and begin to move away from their nest to remove them. After the transition phase, puppies enter the socialization period at the end of the third week of life: this phase lasts until about the tenth week. During this socialization period, the puppy increases interaction with other animals, and puppies form bonds that they will remember for the rest of their lives. The most critical period, from six to eight weeks, is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as part of their family. Starting at four weeks of age, the mother's milk production begins to slow down just as the puppies' energy needs increase. As the mother dog slowly weans her puppies from nursing, they begin to taste easy-to-digest wet food. Environmental stimulation affects your puppy's rate of mental development during this period. The puppy's synapses look like those of an adult dog around day 50, but it is not yet ready: this is where the work of the breeder, mother and littermates comes in. During this period, puppies hear, walk, become acquainted with the world around them noises, sounds, smells, habits , feed independently, learn bite control, and receive correct teachings from their mother on how to relate to each other. At this stage the puppy basically learns to recognize the individuals around it as living beings of the same species with whom it can communicate, play, and interact in different ways. At this stage, therefore, it is very important that the puppy also have many experiences with the human being in such a way that it identifies with and sees him as a living being with whom it can communicate and interact positively. The more diversified the experience in this regard the better so men, women, children, humans in different clothes and various disguises, etc. At this stage, puppies may go through a period offear fear period : when they encounter new people and animals they do not know, they may react with fear and distrust. Anything that frightens them at this age can have a lasting impact, so be careful that the puppy is not over-stimulated with too many changes. This allows the puppy to grow up with fewer phobias-it is simply a normal part of development in which puppies learn to be more cautious, and careful socialization during this period helps counteract fear reactions as adults. A puppy that lives with siblings, mom, and other adults in the group until they are eight weeks old will adapt better to new situations: their interaction with littermates and mom have unique and unparalleled value Interaction with siblings and mom helps teach bite inhibition, understanding and responding to normal canine communication and their hierarchical position in the pack. Youth period The pup's juvenile period generally begins at the age of ten weeks and lasts until puberty and the onset of sexual maturity. Puppies of this age have boundless curiosity, infuriating stubbornness and enthusiastic affection. This is the ideal time to begin training: it is during this period that puppies begin to learn the consequences of behavior and determine what is most appropriate under certain circumstances. Almost every waking moment is spent playing, which is not only great fun for the puppy, but is great practice for his future canine life. From 10 weeks of age, puppies learn to perform important activities such as chasing and running, biting and fighting. Social skills and canine etiquette are learned from interaction with littermates and mother. During this period, puppies learn to inhibit their b iting when bitten by each other and learn canine language: through play, they practice dominant and submissive positions and prepare for life in the world. From 10 to 16 weeks, puppies test their limits and begin to challenge the outside world. They test their owners to see who is the real top dog and seem to have forgotten any education they learned from their mother, behaving like rebellious teenagers. Part of this behavior has to do with teething: puppies change their baby teeth from three months of age and may experience discomfort when their permanent teeth erupt. Often during this period, puppies tend to bite and chew more of anything to relieve the discomfort. This "delinquent" behavior can also be influenced by hormones: unlike many other species, the testosterone level of a male puppy between four and ten months old can be up to five times that of an adult dog. Because of this high level of testosterone adult dogs recognize that he is a young puppy and needs "education"-they make sure to subdue him to teach him manners before he gets too old. Growth from four to six months Puppies grow very fast during this period, and you may notice changes every single day. Not only can your puppy test and challenge you on anything, but this is also the time when puppies understand where they are and living with other pets in the pack. They will be frequent scuffles and fights as play: it is a rule of the older dog to teach puppies its limits and social position. The testosterone level of a whole unneutered male puppy increases around 4 to 5 months of age: because of this, an adult dog can recognize even a full-grown but still small puppy that needs to be educated in proper behavior between beings of the same species. Puppies may also sometimes experience another phase of fear during this period: it can last up to a month and perhaps more than one especially in large dogs, this is normal and nothing to worry about. This fearful phase tends to correspond to growth spurts and "wobbly" behavior or unwarranted aggression, becoming protective of toys or one's territory. Be sure not to reward this behavior and to "talk" to the puppy with precise actions without using words. Build trust between you and your puppy through daily training. Adolescence: six to 12 months During this period puppies may begin to lift their legs and mark their territory with urine, but there is no one age for all, much also depends on size, and generally large breeds such as the Labrador Retriever take longer. The testosterone level in male puppies increases times that of an adult dog at the age of 10 months, then gradually declines to a normal adult level at about 18 months of age. This helps signal to older male dogs that the young still need to be adjusted so as to reduce fights between puppies during this period. Females can go into heat oestrus as early as the 6th month, and males begin to take an interest in the opposite sex during this period. Most of your puppy's height growth ends at this time, to continue to increase muscle mass and body weight. Puppy fur begins to be replaced by a more robust coat as an adult. Puppies at this age seem to explode with great energy and respond well with mental activation games and structured exercises. Ongoing education and socialization are vital to ensure that your puppy knows how to behave politely with other dogs, other animals such as cats, and other people including the dog-child relationship and strangers of all ages and appearance. Social maturity This usually occurs between the first and second year of life. Depending on the breed, your dog will be physically mature at this age: small dogs mature much earlier and older dogs take longer. Your puppy's social maturity may also depend on his experience with other animals. Socialization and training continue throughout your Labrador's life, because there are always new things to learn or lessons to repeat. After all, the joy of your puppy's first year provides for a lifetime of eternal love! 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. 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. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males.

This dog is what is known as a crossbreed, mixed breed, hybrid or designer dog. There is some controversy that comes along with owning a crossbreed dog like the Bullboxer Pit mix. Crossbreed dogs of old were once primarily created by breeders and experts who continued to breed and perfect these dogs until they were predictable enough to be considered purebreds. This is because newer generation crossbreeds are often less predictable than their purebred counterparts when it comes to health, temperament and appearance. However, there are some benefits to buying a crossbreed dog, especially when it comes to health. In fact, crossbreed dogs actually have a wider genepool than purebreds, which means they may be less likely to inherit specific health issues from one parent over the other. This is why experts recommend you consider both parent breeds and research aspects of their origin, appearance, temperament and health before deciding to invest in their crossbreed offspring. Originally bred for bull baiting and blood sports, the American Pitbull Terrier has played many roles throughout his existence. This loyal, energetic, and highly trainable canine makes a wonderful service dog and performs tasks for police, military, and even first responders. And, in spite of his bad rep, the American Pitbull Terrier has been found to do remarkably well with children. However, this is a high energy dog who requires consistent training, socialization, exercise and attention. For this reason, the Pitbull is best suited for experienced and responsible dog owners. This is a dog with a long history going back nearly 2, years, where his origins connect him to ancient war dogs. Like the Pitbull, the Boxer has played many roles throughout history, including working as a service dog, a military and police dog, a guide dog, a guard dog and a war dog in both World Wars. For this reason, it is likely that your Pitbull Boxer Mix will look more like one dog over the other. That said, both the American Pitbull Terrier and the Boxer have some similarities when it comes to appearance. These similarities include size, coat type, and coat color. This means your Pitbull Boxer Mix is likely going to weigh between 50 to 80 pounds, and he can come in a variety of colors including black, tan, white, fawn, brindle, blue, and blue cream. Pitbull Boxers are smooth coated dogs that shed moderately, so they may not be ideal for allergy sufferers. Their ears are naturally going to be floppy and they have long tails. With Boxers, it is common for some breeders to dock their tails and clip their ears. With Pitbulls, clipped ears are also quite common. However, this practice is becoming less and less popular and is even discouraged by many breed clubs, breeders and associations. Furthermore, since the Pitbull Boxer mix is a hybrid dog and therefore not eligible for show, there is really no reason at all to have his tail docked or ears clipped. This is great news for this sweet dog as this practice can be painful and lead to infections and other issues down the road. You already know that the Pitbull Boxer mix is going to be a larger dog, but did you know his personality is going to be just as big? This means that your Pitbull Boxer mix is going to require plenty of daily exercise each and every day in order to stay happy and healthy. Routine exercise for an average Pitbull Boxer mix will consist of at least two walks a day. Each walk should be around 40 minutes to an hour and should be conducted utilizing the proper walking equipment like a harness and leash. Since Pitbull Boxer mixes are stronger dogs with lots of energy, they can be prone to pulling on leash. Some owners turn to prong collars and choke chains to reduce pulling, though recent studies have found that this type of equipment may actually be dangerous for certain breeds. Instead, experts recommend using front clip harnesses or head harnesses to not only reduce pulling in your Bullboxer Pit but to also make walking more comfortable and safe. The Halti Head Collar. Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important. These large dogs are a loyal and energetic companion for any family and their intelligence makes them playful and fun to be around. They may look like their Pitbull parent or they make look like their Boxer parent. One thing we can be sure of though is that, with the right socialization, these dogs are an excellent family member. Breed Origin It can be difficult to know where the Pitbull Boxer Mix originated from, so we can take a look at the parent breeds in more detail to understand the origins of this dog. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Boxer mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. The Boxer was also originally a fighting dog and was used by the Germans to chase and hold down bear, bison and wild boar. However, as time went on, they began to diminish in size and therefore became much better suited to family life, thus becoming a family pet. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Boxer Mix As we have mentioned above, it can be difficult to know the exact characteristics of the Pitbull Boxer Mix because they may take after one parent more than the other. However, we can make assumptions based on past litters. You must make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance Taking a look at the parent breeds will give a good indication as to what your Pitbull Boxer Mix may look like when fully grown. The size of the Pitbull Boxer Mix depends on which type of Pitbull was used to breed. The American Pitbull Terrier is the largest breed of Pitbull and will produce the largest dogs. Coat The Pitbull Boxer Mix has a smooth, short coat as this is the type of coat both their parent breeds have. Luckily, they do not require much grooming, but we will go into more detail about that later on. However, they can come in a wide range of colors, including black, red, white, grey, blue, brown and tan. Temperament The Boxer Pitbull Mix is a loyal and lovable dog that loves to be around people. Super playful, these pups just want to be outside with you, playing games and accompanying you on hikes. If you need to leave them for more than 3 hours at a time, then it is a good idea to employ a dog walker or sitter to look after your friendly pup! These dogs are very intelligent, which is one of the reasons they love to play. Also because of their intelligence, they can get bored very easily. They must be kept entertained otherwise they can get frustrated and begin to exhibit signs of unwanted behaviors. It is a common misconception that because both parent breeds were originally fighting dogs, that the Pitbull Boxer Mix is an aggressive breed. This is not true. You will need to train and socialize your Pitbull Boxer Mix, but they are certainly not violent and really just want to be loved by you! Often, these dogs can feel it is their duty to protect their owners and can make good watchdogs and guard dogs. They will bark when they feel something is out of place or if there is a threat, so this is something to watch out for! Lifespan The Bullboxer has an average life expectancy of between 10 to 14 years. Known Health Issues Unfortunately, as with any breed of dog, the Pit Boxer Mix is at risk of inheriting the same health problems that their parent breeds are predisposed to. Below we have laid out the main health concerns that this breed face. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Aortic stenosis — this is a heart defect that is often found in large dog breeds. It can be treated with medication. Cardiomyopathy — this is an enlarged heart with poor function. It can be helped with medication. Degenerative myelopathy — this is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. There is no cure but there is treatment. It can be helped with intensive physical rehabilitation. Allergies — the Pitbull Boxer can be prone to allergies from a range of causes such as food and pollen. It can lead to scratching and other skin infections. Thyroid issues — this is common in Boxers, who can have either an overactive or underactive thyroid. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Bullboxer, it is time to take a look at what daily life with one of these dogs is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. This means that the amount of food you will be feeding them will vary. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. On average, a dog of this size with the same activity level will need roughly calories a day, which is about 2 cups worth. This should be split into at least two meals a day. This food you feed your Pitbull Boxer Mix should be a high-quality kibble. It should contain a good source of protein so that they can stay active. Take a look at the dog food we recommend below. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them. Nutritional requirements of a Bullboxer Pit What exactly should the diet of a Bullboxer Pit consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your Bullboxer Pit, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a Bullboxer Pit, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. Bullboxer Pit raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your Bullboxer Pit, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. Bullboxer Pit Feeding Chart. European dog breeders who originally developed this mix were keen on crossing different breeds in order to develop the perfect canine companion. Dog breeders started crossing the Pitbull and the Boxer in the hopes of getting a canine that would have the strength and confidence of the Pitbull and the high intelligence levels of the Boxer. Without a dog DNA test, you can never be sure. Assuming that your Boxer Pitbull puppy is a result of two purebred parents, he should have a muscular frame, a strong chest and long legs. They normally weigh around 50 to 80 pounds. Full grown females will be relatively smaller in size and weigh a bit less. However, we can make some informed decisions when it comes to choosing designer dogs. Everything from size and color to behavior and temperament will be an exciting roll of the dice if you buy or adopt a Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy. If both parents are purebred dogs, then the puppies will be half Boxer and half Pitbull. Nonetheless, if either the Pitbull or the Boxer is not purebred, then their puppies will also inherit certain traits from other breeds in their lineage. Boxers are normally known for their curiosity and cheerful nature. They are playful, loyal and intelligent. Teach him a few tricks and your Boxer will happily show off to any admirers. Boxers were developed to be work dogs and they usually take their tasks seriously. They are eager to please and very protective of those close to them. This means that they need socialization from a young age. Boxers are known to be great family dogs and get along well with children. They are not usually good with strangers whether people or other animals. However, these dogs are not overly aggressive as long as their owner is not in danger. American Pitbull Terriers, on the other hand, are said to be large, strong and aggressive canines that are particularly dangerous. However, this is a common misconception. Pitbulls are an energetic dog breed that is also known to be loving, friendly and loyal. Although they were originally used as fighting dogs, they are now well-known to be calm family companions. While American Pitbull Terriers can be taught to fight, they are not necessarily aggressive. However, proper training and socialization is a must. Generally, this dog enjoys being around his family. He is loyal, loving and normally nonaggressive. It is also great with young kids. On the other hand, the Boxer is more friendly towards other pets, but can also be protective. Since the Pitbull Boxer Mix inherits the characteristics of his parents, it is important to understand their traits before buying or adopting one of this puppies. Fortunately, your Boxer Pitbull Mix puppy can get along with cats and other pets if he is socialized early enough. If a full grown Pit Boxer is added to the family, he might try and fight with other pets already living there. When adopting a puppy, it is strongly recommended to socialize him with people and other pets while he is still young. For a long time, Pitbulls were developed to fight other dogs, and some Pitbull Boxer Mix dogs may be overly protective and attack other animals since they have Pitbull genes. However, this breed can also be stubborn, making training quite difficult. Therefore, it is advisable to buy or adopt a Bullboxer if you are a firm and experienced dog owner. Otherwise, you may want to enroll your puppy in a professional dog training course. When it comes to large and potentially aggressive dogs, it is important to start socialization and obedience training as soon as possible. Training your pup early can help prevent unwanted behaviors from developing in the first place. Moreover, large breeds are easier to handle and control when they are still young. Although you may be tempted to think that a strict, punishment-based training technique would deliver the best results, for a muscular dog like the Bullboxer, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, harsh or punishment-based training methods can lead to more aggression. Positive reinforcement training is the way to go for all dogs, including the Pitbull and Boxer Mix. A Pitbull Boxer Mix will need at least 60 minutes of active exercises on a daily basis. Vigorous exercise is recommended, so any physical activity that gets your dog moving is ideal. Exercise will help prevent aggression, boredom and anxiety in breeds that are susceptible to these unwanted problems. It is also a good idea to take your Pitbull Boxer Mix out for a 30 minute walk at least twice daily. If you find that your dog is slowing down or panting continuously, stop and give him some fresh water as well as enough time for him to rest. Keep in mind that playtime is also a good exercise and you can do it either outdoors or indoors. If you do decide to use interactive dog toys, then it is advisable to ensure they are durable. These dogs have very strong jaws and will chew stuff quite easily. Start with simple exercises like short walks and avoid too many vigorous activities to avoid causing injuries to you pup. Recommended: Check the brain training for dogs program here Grooming One great thing about the Pitbull Boxer Mix is that he is a low maintenance dog. However, you should still brush the coat at least once a week to keep the hair in good condition. Bathing should only be done once a month. You need to use a quality dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Clean his ears thoroughly and check for obvious signs of infection. Keep in mind that a Pitbull Boxer is a big eater. Some of these dogs may have the discipline to stop eating once they get started. Therefore, you should closely monitor their eating habits and regulate the amounts of food they eat each day. Feed your Bullboxer a bowl of the same kind of foods other large breeds need: a protein-rich diet is vital to keep your dog healthy and happy. It is also a good idea to feed your dog fish oil on a regular basis. Fish oil has many benefits for dogs, including helping with any issue that causes inflammation of the skin, joints, kidneys and heart. With proper care and attention, these dogs have the potential to live even longer. Fortunately, the Pitbull Boxer Mix has no serious or life-threatening health problems. However, this breed is still prone to a few, less serious and avoidable health problems, including displaced joints, a condition that is worsened when used. Moreover, some Pitbull Boxers may suffer from cardiomyopathy , which is a serious heart disorder. As mentioned earlier, some Pitbull Boxers are big eaters and might develop obesity so make sure to regulate their food intake. Consult your vet for appropriate treatments if you suspect your Pitbull Boxer Mix has any of the above health issues. Pitbull Boxer puppies are quite uncommon and do not fetch very high prices. However, you should first consider finding a reputable breeder who offers healthy and quality Bullboxer puppies at a reasonable price. A rescued or a sheltered Pitbull Boxer can find it difficult to adapt into a new environment since they often exhibit aggressive behaviors. Overall, the Pitbull Boxer Mix is a large and strong dog that with proper care and attention will bring a lot of fun and joy to your household for a long time to come.

What is a Miniature German Shepherd? Purebred or crossbreed? The other side claims it is a mixed breed. The truth is that the Miniature German Shepherd is indeed a crossbreed. Small-sized standard German Shepherds do not exist unless the dog happens to have dwarfism. To get a Miniature German Shepherd, the standard is bred with another purebred, most commonly the Collie or Poodle. Instead, take a look at the parents to get an idea of how a puppy could possibly turn out as an adult. The Intelligent Border Collie This breed is world-renowned for its smarts. A lovable family doggo with talents for competition and herding, it contributes desirable personality traits to make a German Shepherd Collie mix. It can weigh up to 44 lbs 20 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 17 years. Some health concerns to be aware of with this breed include bloating and an eye anomaly that causes partial or complete blindness. This dog makes an elegant and friendly family dog that is a fast learner. The Poodle excels as a competition dog and is also widely used for therapy. The Poodle can weigh up to 70 lbs 31 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. There are health concerns associated with this breed, such as epilepsy, canine hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Loyal German Shepherd The German Shepherd is sharp as a tack and completely dedicated and in love with its family. Ranking as the 3rd most intelligent, you get a well-rounded dog that is not only stunningly beautiful with its thick coat, confident stance, and communicative features, but an excellent guard dog that will protect at any cost. It can weigh up to 88 lbs 40 kg with a height of 25 in 65 cm and has a lifespan of up to 13 years. For further insight into German Shepherd growth, take a look at this guide and chart. With the Shepherd breed, hip dysplasia is a common health issue that is seen in the Miniature variety as well. Shepherds are also known to suffer from a neural disease called degenerative myelopathy and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which is a digestive disorder. This is a rare inherited genetic disorder that results from breeding two purebred German Shepherds. A German Shepherd with dwarfism, though significantly smaller weighing up to 30 lbs , will exhibit the token characteristics and mannerisms the breed is known for. It will also look like a typical Shepherd, except with shortened limbs. This is one way to procure a smaller than normal Shepherd, but there will be extra health issues to deal with, such as allergies and thyroid issues. It is common for these dogs to bald as they age as well. Here is a cute video that gives a glimpse into what life is like for a German Shepherd with dwarfism. The Mini German Shepherd is undoubtedly smaller than the standard one, weighing up to 50 lbs 22 kg. Any combination of these colors can be inherited by the Mini. This Dog is a Devoted Protector maria. They make excellent guard dogs but are good-natured. If you have kids, the Mini will take full responsibility for their safety, with a healthy dose of playtime and cuddling thrown in. Hardworking and intelligent, they make phenomenal search, rescue and therapy dogs. Training is a breeze, as this breed is a fast learner remember, all of three possible parents rank TOP-3 in the smartest dog breeds list? The earlier you introduce behavior commands and socialization methods such as walks in the park where other dogs can be encountered safely, the sooner you will see the intelligence blossom. Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited disease from the German Shepherd parent. This painful condition occurs when an abnormality in the hip socket causes the dog to become crippled or experience agonizing arthritis. To keep your small German Shepherd in good health, plenty of exercises is key. This breed is also prone to canine hypothyroidism, which can cause obesity. No one can guarantee how a mix will turn out. The breeder should be able to present health clearances for hip dysplasia and other common diseases. Check out these Miniature German Shepherd breeders for available litters. Check out this article, Purebred German Shepherd vs. The whole point of having a mini German Shepherd is that you want a smaller dog with the looks and temperament of a purebred. So one of your first questions might be, how big do miniature German Shepherds get? Miniature German Shepherds will be much smaller than purebreds. They can even be half the size of a fully grown GSD depending on the other breed that the female has mated with, for instance, a Corgi or Yorkshire Terrier. On average, they will weigh up to 50 lbs and be up to 20 inches tall. If you are contemplating getting a miniature German Shepherd, you may wonder how you know what you will get in terms of appearance. A miniature German Shepherd will usually look very similar to a German Shepherd, having similar colors and markings and comparable physical characteristics such as pointy ears or a bushy tail. They will typically take the appearance of a compact purebred; however, this is not guaranteed. You can see the dog keeps the main colors, markings, and pointy ears of the German Shepherd. Occasionally, a miniature German Shepherd will resemble a split combination of the German Shepherd and the other breed used in the cross. Sometimes, it can be difficult to predict how they will look as they may or may not share the appearance of both parents. The only way to see the true appearance of the dog is if you choose to adopt one from a shelter or a re-homing center. Unlike German Shepherds, they require fine-tuning of the care plan to suit their needs. Food Miniature German Shepherds need to be fed the quantity of a small-sized dog, and slow feeding is highly recommended to avoid choking. They may feel bloated. Likewise, train your mini German Shepherd to eat slowly. Exercise Being a cross-breed dog, this miniature German Shepherd needs a combination of exercises that promote movement, fun, and interaction. Schedule the routine carefully. Do Miniature German Shepherds Shed? German Shepherds are naturally heavy shedders. But what about the miniature variety? Do they also shed? Miniature German Shepherds do shed. They are heavy shedders and will shed the same as German Shepherds. This occurs in the spring and fall. In spring, the undercoat will change to a lighter, cooler one in line with warmer weather, and in fall, a thicker, warmer undercoat will grow in preparation for the winter. If you hope for a compact German Shepherd that sheds less, you will be disappointed! However, sometimes the degree of shedding can depend on the breed used in the cross. You can check out my article about German Shepherd shedding for loads more info, including my 7 top tips on reducing shedding. Are Mini German Shepherds Hypoallergenic? If you suffer from an allergy to pet dander, you may wonder if the mini German Shepherd is hypoallergenic. Miniature German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Even if a hypoallergenic breed such as a Poodle is used in the cross, it is improbable that the puppies will also be hypoallergenic, but they may shed less than a purebred German Shepherd. Mini German Shepherds often live longer than GSDs and can live up to 15 years, depending on the breed used in the mix — compared to years for a GSD. Small dogs live longer than large breeds because large breeds age faster. Mixed breeds are also more likely to have a recessive disease. This recent study of , dogs found that purebreds were 2. Another study of over 27, dogs conducted over 15 years to determine the proportion of mixed-breed and purebred dogs with common genetic disorders found that the theory that purebred dogs are more susceptible to inherited disease is only true for some disorders. They are prone to hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat GDV. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals states that .However, it can be prevented by proper screening and stamping out unscrupulous breeders. Some common health problems include dysplasia, hemophilia, degenerative myelopathy, and epilepsy. Although mini German Shepherds are smaller in size, they can still suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia due to genetic reasons. Another common health condition as a result of genetics is hemophilia. Similar to dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy can happen due to genetic reasons, and your mini German Shepherd can experience weakness in the rear limbs as age progresses. Based on the other parent Corgi, Collie, Poodle, Pug, or Daschund , the other health issues can be determined. However, these small breeds are prone to epilepsy, and you should take prior care. What is a Miniature German Shepherd Called? Below are the names of the most popular miniature German Shepherds. However, sometimes it can be a bit of a lottery with appearance, as you can see in the image of this Shepadoodle. Key Points: Intelligent, friendly, graceful, proud, affectionate, loyal, alert, active, protective, fun-loving, and highly trainable. Small dogs typically in the inches cms range. Miniature Poodles are used. Lifespan is years. Good with strangers once socialized. Good with children and other animals. Adapt well to apartment living and are ideal for novice owners. High grooming needs due to their unique curly, wiry, and dense hair. Low shedders and hypoallergenic. Excels in many activities, including agility, obedience, herding, and tracking. Often used as assistance dogs. Key Points: Shollie Herding dog famous for his intense stare used to control the flock. Love to please their owners and respond well to praise. Always alert and ready to obey commands. Medium size dog with an overall height of inches cm. High energy becomes destructive if not exercised. Good around children but need early socialization and obedience training due to strong herding instinct. Excel in various canine sports, including tracking, obedience, agility, and sheepdog trials. Open space is preferred but can adapt to living in most environments, except in small apartments. Mostly black with a white blaze on the face, neck, feet, legs, and tail tip, with or without some tan. Double-coated, rough, or smooth. Medium shedders. Key Points: Strong and lively small breed herding dog bred to move cattle and sheep. Loyal, playful, friendly, protective, intelligent, alert, affectionate, fearless, independent, watchdog. Fond of children and gets along with other family pets. Excellent first-choice dog. Small breed between .Weigh up to 30 pounds. Four coat colors red, sable, fawn, tri-colored , and many have white markings on the legs, chest, neck, muzzle, and tummy. Enjoy exercise and require at least an hour a day. Quick and agile despite their short, muscular legs. Good at agility, tracking, herding events, and obedience. Heavy shedders but easy to groom. Therefore, artificial insemination may be required when breeding breeds of different sizes. Key Points: A small terrier-type dog bred to catch rats. Trendy companion dog. Maximum weight of 7 pounds 3kg and a height of inches cms. Comes in various colors. Intelligent, trainable, courageous, confident, bold, affectionate, independent, feisty, bossy, alert, and curious. Suspicious of strangers and will bark at intruders and unfamiliar sounds; good watchdogs. Make a good first dog and are ideal for apartment living. Not child-friendly. Can become snappy around noisy toddlers if teased or startled. Good with other family pets, in particular cats. Require a fair amount of physical and mental exercise. Enjoy playing and chasing. Non-shedding dogs, but their coats are similar to human hair requiring regular grooming. Key Points: Dachshund Shepherd It was bred as a hunter of burrow-dwelling animals — part of the hound group. Long muscular body. Short legs. Standard size weighs up to 32 pounds and is inches tall cms. Come in various colors. Intelligent, lively, playful, courageous, bold, independent, affectionate, devoted, fierce, and stubborn. Good watchdogs, feisty, wary of strangers. Stubborn, mischievous, and challenging to train. Good first pets. It is suited to apartments. Good around young children and other pets. But can be a little snappy around unfamiliar children, especially if teased. Tireless when it comes to exercise. Enjoy long walks. Come in shorthaired smooth , longhaired, and wirehaired varieties. Smooth is more popular as their coats need little grooming. Not suited to living outdoors. The smooth-haired variety requires a coat in cold weather. Learn about the pros and cons of Dachshunds here. It can be quite challenging to find a good breeder specializing in the type of min German Shepherd you are looking for. Adopting gives you a major advantage in that you can go and see the dog you choose. The Shelter Pet Project aims to make shelters the first place potential adopters look when choosing a dog. Blue Cross is another charity that helps sick, injured, abandoned, and homeless pets. If you decide to find a reputable breeder, make sure to do your due diligence. My article, How to Buy a German Shepherd: 5 Easy Steps , will give you loads of helpful advice and tips, but here are some quick tips when choosing a puppy: Go and meet the breeder. Ask any questions to see how knowledgeable they are, e. See if they appear genuine and honest and are not running a puppy farm. Ask to see all the puppies in their environment. Check how happy and healthy they look. Get the breeder to show you the parents. A reputable breeder will do this as a matter of course, as they have nothing to hide. Ask to see the puppies with their parents. Watch their behavior and see how they interact. Get a full medical history. Remember to check not only the pup you are interested in but also the parents. Expect the breeder to quiz you regarding your suitability. Good breeders care for the dog as they care for their pups and will not sell them to anyone. Depending on various factors such as breeder experience, bloodline, location, the number of puppies, etc. So, how much is a miniature German Shepherd? Therefore, purebred GSDs are generally more expensive. However, prices have increased considerably since the pandemic. Key Takeaways Miniature German Shepherds are good family dogs and make wonderful pets. Here are a few key takeaways from the article to help you decide if this breed is for you: There is no such thing as a purebred miniature German Shepherd. Although mini German Shepherds are bred to replicate the qualities of a German Shepherd in a smaller size, this is not guaranteed as they can sometimes inherit less attractive traits from the other breed mated. Breeding a German Shepherd with much smaller breeds, such as the Yorkie or Dachshund, divides opinion. Some will say this breeding is unethical and can cause numerous health issues. If you want more info on mixes in general, check out this article, Are Mixed Breeds Bad? Related Posts You May Like:. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article. Do you still think that a mini German Shepherd mix or some kind of small German shepherd dog is right for you? Why is the mini German shepherd such an attractive prospect for families compared to a regular GSD? German shepherds can be attractive to families for a number of reasons — they are smart dogs with a loyal streak and are known to become playing, loving member of the family if they are trained correctly. The problem that often puts buyers off, however, is the size. There are always concerns that these large dogs will be difficult to own with children in the house — even though they are pretty good-natured that way — and that there simply wont be enough room for them. A GSD needs space to run around and play in, which makes apartment living out of the question. The idea of having a mini version of a German shepherd is therefore appealing to apartment dwellers that love the breed but do not have the space to own a full sized one. This leads to fantasies of tiny shepherds living contently in the home, acting like a cuter smaller version of an old family pet. The problem is that the reality is vastly different. The additional problem that hopeful owners have to face is that there are a number of breeders, or a least online sellers, trying to get away with saying that they have a genuine teacup German shepherd for sale. Teacup is one of those buzzwords with designer animals that has unfortunately lingered in the public consciousness. Whenever an animal has been bred to be ridiculously small and suitable for the home — such as with the teacup pigs that were a massive craze many years ago — they are given this name to make them sound even smaller and cuter. Perhaps there will be an accompanying photo of an animal in a cup and saucer to really hammer the point home. Beware of anyone trying to pull this stunt because GSDs cannot get that small and they are just trying to ramp up their miniature German shepherd price. Take a second look at those photos on those websites, do they really look like a pure mini German shepherd dog? If you know your dog breeds, you will know that there are certain characteristics to look for an a purebred GSD — such as the back line, the shape of the legs, the size of the muzzle and those pointed ears. A big fluffy coat, long bushy tail, floppy ears or a squashed in face are big red flags that another breed is in the mix. There are three reasons why the dog you are being shown is a small looking GSD: it could be an undersized runt of the litter, an animal with dwarfism or a cross bred with a smaller breed of dog. The latter could provide buyers with a lap-dog sized pup that appears to be like a mini German shepherd, but it would false advertising. German Shepherd with Dwarfism: Image Source Why is dwarfism such a problem when looking for a smaller German shepherd? Purebred GSDs with dwarfism can look like cuter, smaller versions of their siblings, but it is important to remember that this is a disability from a genetic defect and these dogs should not be deliberately bred to look this way. The problem comes when buyers think that they are being sold a healthy dog and do not realise the lifelong commitment to healthcare and medical checks. Dwarf German shepherds are also more likely to have coat problems. Some struggle to regulate their temperature due to a lack of undercoat and others go bald with age. There are a number of small German shepherd breeds out there that are actually a cross between a GSD and a smaller animal. Many of the dominant genes of the shepherd will come through in the color of the coat or some of the physical characteristics, but there will be other genes from the other animal that are leading to its diminutive stature. Collies and huskies are commonly bred with these dogs but, in theory, breeders could end up with all kinds of offspring if a GSD bred with a smaller lap dog. This range of potential breeds may mean that there are lots of interesting looking dogs to choose from, but you could be taking a big gamble. This vast potential for hybridised offspring means that there is a range of interesting looking puppies out there, from miniature white German shepherd to small black German shepherd and so much in-between. There are lots of cute puppies in need of a good home that will have some GSD genes and some miscellaneous ones — especially if you are buying one that is advertised as a pure breed. The problem in this form of lucky dip is that you may not be sure exactly what you are going to get. German Shepherd Collie Mix: Source How will you know what their temperament and potential health care problems are likely to be? The biggest concern for unsuspecting buyers is that dealers who are adamant that they are selling these desirable, pure miniature dogs, will not give much away about the true parentage of the animal and any potential implications of that breeding. What sort of personality will your German shepherd miniature have? This is the biggest concern for anyone looking at a miniature German shepherd for sale. As was mentioned before, buyers have clear ideas of how a GSD should behave before buying and will assume that their mini version will live up these expectations. There is always the chance, however, that some of the less desirable, naughty behavioural traits of the other dog will become dominant. Training your mini GSD hybrid Because the intellect and temperament of your puppy may remain unclear at first, training your new dog could prove to be more of a challenge. Each breed has its own quirks and there are always little tricks to use to get around problem behaviour, but how do you determine this in an unknown hybrid? Additionally, you may find that while many GSDs are quick studies with a knack for verbal commands and little need for repetition, your pup may be a little slower and requires a little more patience. In difficult cases like this, it helps to be able to turn to an online resource such as the Doggy Dan online dog trainer for regular help. What sort of health care needs will your German shepherd mini have? German shepherd dogs have a number of potential health care issues to watch out for and the most common concern among owners is joint problems and dysplasia, particularly in the hips. There is no guarantee that this will be avoided in these small shepherd breeds and there could be additional disease risk and genetic problems coming from the other parent. Without a clear idea of the parentage and family history, some major problems could creep up on you as the puppy grows up. What about grooming? Grooming is something that all GSD owners have to consider because the dense double layers of this big working dog can shed quite a lot, especially during the seasonal moults. There is the assumption, therefore, that a mini version will have the same requirements, but this may not be the case. Depending on the breed, you may end up with a short haired German shepherd mix that requires less attention, or a fluffy coated breed that requires more attention. If the answer is yes, you need to know how to do so responsibly. If you do decide to buy from a breeder, there is the added issue of the mini German shepherd cost. Check to see how much the dogs are being sold for and, if the price seems high, why they are going for so much. An expensively-priced animal is not always the best pick if it is sold under false pretences. The first thing to do is to find a breeder that you can meet in person where you can actually see the puppies that are for sale. See if you can arrange to see the puppies with their parents and the rest of the pups so that you can check to see if they are part of a healthy litter and get to know more about their genetics. Talk to the breeder about the animals they are selling and see how honest they are willing to be about the parentage, health issues and other considerations when dealing with the pup. If it is a pure breed, ask why it is so small. If they are honest about it being a hybrid, ask about the likely traits. Finally, give the puppy a good check to see if there are any clear health problems. This can help you to rule out the dwarfism and runt issues. Again, there is the chance that you will not know precisely what their genetic make-up is if the animal has been brought in from a bad home or as a stray, but the shelter staff will be able to tell you all about the character of the dog and what to expect in terms of health care, especially if they are an adult dog. This approach takes some of the risk factor out of the decision while giving you the chance to do something very noble for an unfortunate animal. What have we learnt about the mini German shepherd breed? Remember to always take online adverts with a pinch of salt, ignore all those that advertise puppies that sound too good to be true and to look for a breeder that is open and honest about the genetic traits of the puppies that they have for sale. If the breeder route has put you off, then look into giving an unwanted hybrid small GSD dog a good home. Source Do you still think that a mini German Shepherd mix or some kind of small German shepherd dog is right for you? If you have your heart set on a pure German Shepherd you either have to accept that they are big dogs needing a lot of space or that you will have to opt for a hybrid. Hopefully the idea of a hybrid dog is a welcome one because it should be about the love, companionship and welfare of the dog rather than trying to find the impossible replication of a GSD in a small breed. If you decide that you are happy to continue with your search for a small German shepherd breed now you know it is a cross breed, take the time to consider the different issues mentioned here and to find your ideal dog in a responsible way. German Shepherd Border Collie Mix: Source Bypass all of the online adverts and false photographs for those teacup GSDs and search for an honest breeder that will talk to you about the parentage of the dog and what to expect. The only difference is that you will have the peace of mind of knowing precisely what you have bought or adopted, rather than ending up with a dog that is not what as advertised to you at all.