homemade german shepherd puppy food

homemade german shepherd puppy food

We have answers. Am I limited to Bakersfield German Shepherd puppies for sale? Looking for your dream German Shepherd, Bakersfield? If you're looking for a dog that matches your particular lifestyle, and don't want to compromise on quality or find one that's been bred specifically for the local market, Uptown Puppies is the perfect choice. We work with breeders and businesses throughout the United States who are experts at transporting dogs securely and getting them to major airports so that you can pickup your new pet. How do you screen breeders with German Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, California? German Shepherd puppies for sale? Bakersfield has the best! We are a network of ethical, humane breeders who care about our puppies and customers. We screen breeders who want to join our network, and we only allow those with a track record of excellent breeding practices, caring for their puppies, and customer service. Are German Shepherds trainable for novice owners? What about the best German Shepherd puppies Bakersfield has to offer? Whether German Shepherds are easy to train or best left to professionals is up for debate. The breed is extremely intelligent and obedient, so they're sure to make great family members. German Shepherds love to serve and will be perfect companions for those who have the time and patience to train them well. We at What Families Want understand that many families are looking for a quality puppy, but they don't want to be scammed or find a puppy mill. That's why we created our puppy finder network. What is a puppy mill? Do they have cheap Bakersfield German Shepherds for sale? In fact, these breeding facilities often have a negative impact on both the dogs and the humans who work there. Puppies in mills typically come from unethical breeding practices that can cause them to carry undetected genetic issues. Are German Shepherds for sale in Bakersfield, California good for apartments? German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the world, but they need proper exercise and room to roam in order to be happy. If you don't have time for your German Shepherd to run around, they may become destructive and anti-social. Are there any German Shepherd puppies for sale near Bakersfield? Don't miss your chance to get a German Shepherd puppy! The only problem is that puppies listed on Uptown Puppies are always taken quickly. New and upcoming litters can be scooped up within hours. If you see the Shepherd of your dreams, act fast before someone else does! Are German Shepherd puppies near Bakersfield right for me? Well, that depends on what you want! Do you want a loyal and intelligent dog who will stand by your side through thick and thin? The German Shepherd is a protective pooch, but they're also extremely friendly towards their family. If that's what you're looking for, join the club- there's a reason Shepherds are so popular! Are German Shepherds good family dogs? German Shepherds can be quite intimidating, but they are also very loving towards their family. They are also quite protective of their home and will stand up to anyone who threatens it. Proper socialization from a young age is key to avoid these issues. Where do German Shepherds come from? Are they only available from German Shepherd breeders near Bakersfield? The German Shepherd originated in the United Kingdom in the late s. The most intelligent, responsive and obedient local shepherd dogs in the UK were bred to create what is now known as the Welsh Corgi. This breed was responsible for herding cattle and protecting flocks from predators. Are German Shepherds smart? German Shepherds are some of the smartest dogs around. They're usually considered to be one of the smartest breeds, according to a study that ranked intelligence based on each breed's ability to learn and obey commands. Because they're so smart, proper training is essential if you want your German Shepherd to stay under your control. Without regular reinforcement and discipline, he may quickly outsmart you and take over the household. How fast can German Shepherds run? Where can I find the best German Shepherd for sale Bakersfield has to offer? German Shepherds can sprint quickly, reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. That's pretty fast! Keep in mind that GSDs can run for hours if they need to, so be aware if you're out walking and see one running off quickly. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Size Color. Australian Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Next litter coming end of .We are proud to say our family has been involved with breeding and raising Australian Shepherds since .Transportation to Bakersfield, CA available. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Super personality and ready to go to his new home. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter. Australian Cattle Dogs for Sale in Bakersfield. Why buy an Australian Shepherd puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Below is a sample search of our Australian Shepherd breeders with puppies for sale. Entelbucher Puppies for Sale. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter 3. Australian Shepherd For Sale in Bakersfield .Australian Shepherd, California » California City. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Female Australian Shepherds for Sale in Bakersfield. Australian shepherd puppies available now vaccine, health short, for more info an. Find Miniature Australian Shepherd puppies for sale. Why buy an Australian Shepherd puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Australian Shepherd puppies in Bakersfield who need a home. Australian Shepherd california, bakersfield. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Entlebucher puppies and adult Entlebucher in Bakersfield, California. Back; Australian Shepherd Puppies. Browse search results for toy australian shepherd puppies Pets and Animals for sale in Bakersfield, CA. Australian Shepherds for Sale in Bakersfield. There are often many great Entlebuchers for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. Adopt an Entlebucher near youEntlebucher in cities near Bakersfield, CaliforniaOther pups in Bakersfield, CaliforniaSearch for an Entlebucher puppy or dog near youBrowse Entlebucher puppies and dogs in nearby citiesBrowse related breeds in Bakersfield, CaliforniaEntlebucher shelters and rescues in Bakersfield, CaliforniaLearn more about adopting …. Australian Shepherd Puppies. Breed: Australian Shepherd. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Bakersfield. They're great friends for people of all ages, as they're affectionate, confident and playful. Australian Shepherd puppy for sale near Houston, Texas from www. They have a happy, sweet and loving tempe. Blue Dot Aussies, Bakersfield, California. Australian Shepherd Charming Australian Shepherd puppies are now ready to meet their new. Australian ShepherdCharming Australian Shepherd puppies are now ready to meet their new loving. Puppies are standards lbs possible blue eyes. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation. Australian Shepherd pups california, bakersfield. Anything LookWeird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the latest version. Adorable Australian Shepherd puppies looking for their forever homes Will be ready to go Nov th. Find a Puppy Groomers Find the right local groomer for your dog's grooming. Pointer puppies and dogs in Bakersfield, California. They are now ready to go to their new home. Mini Australian shepherd. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Pointer puppies in Bakersfield, California. The search tool above returns a list of breeders located nearest to the zip or postal code you enter. Charming Australian Shepherd puppies are now ready to meet their new loving family. Nickname: Chloe on PuppyFinder. Find your perfect puppy! All 9 pups have been sold. Find the Australian Shepherd puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Australian Shepherd breeders in Bakersfield, CA and start the application process today. Available mini's and toys Australian shepherds male's and females Text for more details. Bakersfield: Australian Shepherd Breeders. Australian Shepherd Puppy for Sale near California, …. Male Australian Shepherds for Sale in Bakersfield. Australian shepherd puppies sarahcook.Australian Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA from. Breeds Australian Shepherds. Bakersfield: Australian Shepherd Breeders Below is a sample search of our Australian Shepherd breeders with puppies for sale. Search for an Entlebucher puppy or dog. Make sure to do research on th MORE. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Miniature Australian Shepherds for Sale in Bakersfield. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale near Bakersfield, …. Lovely Australian shepherd available now california, bakersfield. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale. Puppies will come with 1st shot at 8 weeks old, akc microchip, deworming at 2,4,6. If you are unable to find your Australian Shepherd puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Australian Shepherd Dogs for. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA from trusted. We have livestock and train our dogs to herd which they do anyway it is in their bloodline to herd. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale near Bakersfield. Italian Spinone Puppies for Sale. With herding dog DNA, they need lots of exercise. Browse these Pointer rescues and shelters below. Australian Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA from …. If you are unable to find your Australian Shepherd puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Australian Shepherd Dogs for Adoption. You've reached the best place to find Mini Aussies for adoption. Australian Shepherd Dogs for Adoption near Bakersfield, …. My name is Diane Lucas and I am the proud owner and breeder of Blue. Australian Shepherd For Sale Bakersfield. Find Australian Shepherd puppies for sale. They will come with there first shot and will be wormed. Find Australian Shepherd puppies for sale The Australian Shepherd is actually an all-American dog, bred to work on ranches out west. Anything Look…Weird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the latest version of Chrome or Safari. If you have never had the pleasure of owning a German Shepherd then you are in for a real treat. There are many places where you can adopt a German Shepherd. If you live in the country a good place to adopt a German Shepherd is at a boarding kennel. This kind of facility will often allow you to find the perfect dog for your family. However, you can also search online and find that there are many different places to adopt German Shepherd puppies. The Bakersfield German Shepherd puppies craigslist ad is one of the most popular places to adopt a German Shepherd. The price of this ad is very reasonable and you can save money if you are adopting a puppy from a shelter or rescue group instead of a breeder. There is also a wide price range as far as German Shepherd breeders are in the US. When it comes to looking for a good home for your German shepherd puppies the internet has opened up so many opportunities. There is an adoption kit for you to search through and find the perfect home for your new dog. There is even a Bakersfield ca area directory that you can look at to find local organizations that will help you find a good home for your new puppy. When you search for the German Shepherd puppies craigslist ad you will get some interesting results. One of the things that you will find out about German Shepherd breeders who are in the area is that they will put up a sign on their premises that states they do not accept cash payments for rehoming. But if you have the time to spend, you may be able to find some great deals on a decent dog. You can also look at the different classifieds in the paper in your area and see if there are any ads for German shepherd puppies. It can be a great idea to check out one of the classifieds in Bakersfield ca, and see what kind of price range that they have. These are some of the best German Shepherd breeders that you can find. They have the experience that you would expect, and you will have your new family member very quickly. If you are interested in German Shepherds in general then you may want to take a look at an online breeder in the area. There are many different sites that you can use to find a reputable breeder in the Sacramento area. If you live in the Bay Area, you will want to make sure that you take a look at the California German Shepherd puppies on the craigslist app. Not only will you be able to find the perfect pet for your loved one, but you will be able to get him or her quickly. The other place that you may be able to find some wonderful German Shepherd puppies is at the different dog shelters. Bakersfield CA has a large number of excellent shelters and rescues where you can go and look at the different dogs that are there. You can also contact the local vet and ask them if they have any German Shepherds for sale. No matter what happens though, you should make an appointment with the local vet so that you will be fully prepared for when you bring your new German Shepherd puppies home. These dogs are amazing companions and very lovable. The black German shepherd puppies that are for sale in the Bakersfield area are some of the most adorable and fun German shepherd puppies that you will ever own. You can purchase one of these dogs from the local breeders near you can purchase one from the Internet. Either way, you are in for a wonderful treat. Share this:.

Weight: Less than 28 pounds. Size: inches. Temperament: Sociable, laid-back and attentive. Blue French Bulldog Appearance Despite their small size they stand with a confidence that outshines their height. The breed itself is well-known for their characteristic smushed-in face and bat-like ear, which are always pricked and attentive to their surroundings. While their tails are often short and stumpy, they are not docked. Blue Frenchies are a small and stocky breed with a smooth coat. Size The Blue French Bulldog is inches tall and should not exceed 28 pounds. Thanks to their genetics their coat has that marvelous blue color, often either solid or with some white markings on the chest and belly. Special attention should be given to these areas while grooming as wrinkles can easily trap bacteria. They will shed twice a year. Frenchies are also popular on social media — Manny the Frenchie has over 1 million Instagram followers. They are unable to give birth naturally and often need a C-Section. This breed almost ended up with the rose ear of the English Bulldog, rather than the bat ears this dog is well-known for. They are playful and alert pups who often enjoy basic dog games like fetch. Due to their flat faces they will settle for a walk around the block. Still no matter the game all they want to do is be with you. Blue Frenchies rarely barks and will often quietly get your attention. They are social and adaptable dogs that are able to get used to any situation. These pups especially enjoy the company of people, children and other dogs. Just remember that young children should be taught manners and respect when it comes to handling a dog of any breed. Because of their small size, it can be easy for them to get hurt, so it is important to remind your children to not treat your pup like a teddy bear. If they are not stimulated they can be a tad destructive, so make sure you give them an outlet for their energy — toys and exercise work best. This breed loves is tug-of-war. Due to their clinginess they may be prone to developing separation anxiety. Yes, they can provide lots of fun for the family as well as lots of cuddles on the couch. However as previously mentioned just make sure your younger children are educated on how to properly handle small dogs. Because of their brachycephalic face you should make sure to avoid overexertion while exercising. Grooming them is easy as well — just pay attention to their wrinkles as bacteria and food can get trapped between the folds. The biggest thing to look out for is their health more on this later. All in all this dog is suitable for any household, from family homes to apartments. Just make sure their needs are being met and they will be happy. Exercise Requirements This breed does not need a lot of exercise. A simple walk around the block with some off-leash play in the park is enough. Whilst they are happy with nearly any activity make sure to avoid swimming. Their top-heavy bodies can act as an anchor, making pools and lakes dangerous for this dog. These dogs would rather surf TV channels than waves! Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding When it comes to grooming they are fairly low maintenance. For their bluish gray coat, a quick brush with a rubber glove every other day with a monthly bath are all it needs. Their wrinkles need extra attention. Be sure to clean their faces weekly with dog-safe wipes as food and bacteria can get caught in between their folds. Cleaning those bat ears is a must to prevent infection, as well as maintaining proper dental hygiene. Because they are not the most active breed pay attention to their nails and trim them if they do not wear down on their own. Feeding and Diet As they are an inactive breed keep track of their diet. Overfeeding can lead to them gaining weight due to their low activity levels. This dog should not exceed 28 pounds as extra weight can put stress on their joints. Checking with your vet is a great way to gauge how much food your dog needs as well as what type of food would be best for them. Avoid kibble brands with excess fillers or by-products. An experimental study observed that obese dogs who were on a weight loss program better conserved lean body mass while on a high-protein diet. Due to their flat faces they can have respiratory issues. You can hear this through their snorting and labored breathing in hot weather or after exercise. In addition Blue French Bulldogs are susceptible to spine malformations and can be born with hemivertebrae or abnormally shaped spine bones. As well as some skin issues, there is the risk of color dilution alopecia. This can result in self-destruction of the follicle and permanent hair loss. No breed is entirely free of health problems but Blue French Bulldogs need extra research when it comes to finding a reputable breeder. Be sure to invest in good health insurance in case any of these issues arise later in life. If you plan ahead, you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on. We have a litter due second week of April that will likely have blues! Levi is blue and momma is fawn but carries blue and chocolate. See Blue Puppies! For those of you Frenchie lovers who are interested in the genetics behind the blue color, here it is. This of you who are just here for the cute Frenchie pics, scroll down. The blue gene is actually a gene that dilutes the color of genes on the K and A-locus. The K locus determines if there is bridling or not. The A locus determines if the Frenchie is solid black, tri-color, fawn, or sable. If the puppy is solid black determined by A-locus and inherits two copies of the dilute gene of the D-locus, the black coloring is diluted to the blue color. French Bulldog Blue Male: Adam If the frenchie is fawn determined by A-locus and inherits two dilute genes on the D-Locus then, he will be blue fawn which is more of a champagne color. If they inherit one or two copies of the brindle gene they will express brindling in their coat making the beautiful blue brindle French Bulldog. They can express a light amount of brindle like or be like Remy here who is a reverse brindle and expresses lots of brindling in his coat. Piebald is a recessive gene. This means in order to be pied they have to carry two copies of the gene on the S-locus. This creates beautiful patterns of splashes of color varying from large quantities of patches or maybe just a tiny dot on their tail or elsewhere. Those who only have a tiny dot appear to be white and are considered to be extreme pieball. Romeo is a blue brindle pieball. Yes, I let him right in to warm his ears by the fireplace. In order for this color to be expressed. We are looking at the K-locus, A-locus, and the D-locus. K will determine if there is brindling expressed in the tan points or not. Just one copy of the brindle gene will allow for brindling to occur. But remember to be blue they must also inherit two copies of the dilute gene one D-locus. Me What is a Blue French Bulldog? A blue French bulldog is a variation of the French bulldog breed, known for its distinctive blue-gray coat color. French bulldogs are a popular breed of domestic dogs, known for their small size, muscular build, and wrinkled faces. The blue coat color is a result of a genetic mutation that results in a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, giving it a blue-gray appearance. What makes them blue? The blue coat color in blue French bulldogs is the result of a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment in their fur. This mutation affects the melanin pigment in the hair follicles, resulting in a blue-gray appearance. The mutation is caused by a recessive gene, which means that a blue French bulldog must inherit two copies of the gene one from each parent in order to express the blue coat color. Are Blue Frenchies really blue? Blue French bulldogs are not actually blue in color. The blue coat color is a misnomer, and these dogs are actually gray-blue or silver in appearance. The blue color is the result of a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, which gives it a bluish hue. Silver Blue: This is a lighter shade of blue that is similar to silver color. Dark Blue: This is a deeper, almost black, shade of blue. Blue Brindle: This is a blue coat with a brindle pattern, which is characterized by streaks of dark fur interspersed with lighter fur. Blue Fawn: This is a blue coat with a fawn-colored undercoat, giving the dog a blue-gray appearance with a lighter underbelly. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are typically good with children and other pets and make great companions for families and individuals alike. They are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise needs, making them a good choice for apartment living or for people with limited time for dog walking. Grooming Grooming your blue French bulldog is important for maintaining its health and appearance. Brush your dog regularly to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or a rubber brush to remove tangles and mats. Bathe your blue Frenchie as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be careful to avoid getting soap in their eyes or ears, and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently clean the inside of their ears. Brush his teeth regularly to maintain their oral health and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Blue Frenchies get on well with children Blue French bulldogs generally get along well with children. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful, and they tend to be good with children. They have a gentle and patient temperament, making them a great choice for families with kids. Size Blue French bulldogs are a small breed of dog and typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds, with males being larger than females. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. However, French bulldogs are generally a compact and muscular breed with a short, stocky build, and are well-proportioned for their size Lifespan The lifespan of a blue French bulldog is typically 10 to 12 years. Like all dogs, the lifespan of a blue French bulldog can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. A French bulldog can appear blue due to a genetic dilution of the black pigment in their coat, causing a blue-grey hue to appear. Are Blue Frenchies rare? Yes, Blue Frenchies are considered a rare coat color and therefore may be more expensive and difficult to find. What is the temperament of a blue French Bulldog? The temperament of a blue French Bulldog can vary, but generally, they are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs. They are known to be loyal companions and are good with children. Why should I choose Tomkings Kennel? We at TomKings Kennel are committed to the health, well-being, and responsible breeding of French Bulldogs. We put the needs of our animals first, and strive to produce healthy and well-adjusted pets that are well-suited to their new homes. We test our breeding dogs for genetic health issues and work to prevent the spread of inherited diseases. We also provide proper veterinary care for our dogs, including regular check-ups and vaccinations. We carefully plan our breeding programs to produce healthy, well-adjusted offspring. We also limit the number of litters our females produce to ensure that each animal receives the proper care and attention. We provide our dogs with clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions. We also provide our pups with regular exercise and socialization opportunities. We are transparent and open in our communication with potential Frenchie owners. We are happy to answer all your questions and provide information about our breeding practices and the care we provide to our puppies. We have a deep love and commitment to the French Bulldog breed and we work to promote and protect the health and well-being of the breed as a whole.

Are You Ready to Care for a Boxer? All dog breeds have these genes, but whether they come in the ancestral form—the highest degree of shedding—or other forms such as the newer version, resulting in a low amount of shedding, varies. Boxers are undoubtedly at the higher end of the shedding spectrum. But even within a litter, some dogs may inherit genes more prone to shedding than others. But did you know that people shed 50 to hairs per day? Boxers and humans share the same three-stage shedding cycle. The process is as follows: Anagen Catagen Telogen Anagen is an active stage when new hair is growing on your Boxer. Are Boxers Hypoallergenic? Hypoallergenic dogs have hair instead of fur, meaning that their hair grows continuously and sheds less. All dogs have protein in their dander, and some people have an allergic reaction to it. And since Boxers shed so much, that allergy-inducing protein spreads readily throughout a home. Instead, they shed evenly year-round. Three Boxer dogs sitting to attention. What a team! Reasons for Excessive Boxer Shedding Although Boxers naturally shed a lot, sometimes an underlying issue sparks excessive shedding. Below are some of the most common situations that may make your Boxer shed more than usual. External Parasites Fleas are a common external parasite that causes hair loss in Boxers, in part because they itch so much and damage their hair follicles. The good news is that you can prevent a tick infestation on your pet and in your home by keeping your Boxer on a flea and tick medication schedule. Mites are another parasite that leads to excessive shedding. Several different types of mites exist, and they create the itchy and painful condition called mange. Your veterinarian will prescribe your Boxer medication if they come down with mange. Once your dog recovers, you can expect them to return to its regular shedding habits. A snoozing boxer dog. And on the contrary, some people inadvertently feed their dog unbalanced home cooked meals without the proper ratio of macro and micronutrients. Regardless of the situation, a diet that lacks nutrients can spark extra shedding in your Boxer. So, work with your veterinarian to determine the right type and amount of food to feed them. Switching dog food diets 3. But as much as we all wish they could keep that fur forever, the reality is that they shed it to make way for coarser adult fur. The time when a Boxer puppy starts shedding their puppy coat varies, but it can be anywhere from four months to one year, and the process is often gradual. A Boxer puppy sitting happily 4. Infection Infections are not only painful and dangerous for your Boxer if you leave them untreated, but they can also cause hair loss. The most common types of hair-loss-inducing infections result from bacteria and fungus. But Boxers love routine, so anything in your household that changes this can cause them to feel stressed. How To Groom a Boxer? Brushing your Boxer once or twice a week is an excellent strategy for reducing the amount of fur that will end up on your floor. Instead, a pin brush with rubber tips will do the job of pulling up loose fur. Bathing your Boxer is another excellent way to reduce the amount of shedding around your home. But the bottom line is that you should strike a balance between managing their shedding and not stripping the oils from their skin. Boxers are a relatively easy breed to care for despite shedding daily. So, may I suggest purchasing a robot vacuum in addition to your Boxer? My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. If you are a high energy, active person, you want a dog who can keep up. I have my moments of high energy, but I like having a calm dog who sleeps most of the day away. Hi dog moms and dads, my name is Bri! My American Bulldog , Bruce, is an older dog so his high energy days are dwindling. He still enjoys a long walk, but at a very slow pace and only if he can sleep the rest of the day after. This works just fine for me! I consider myself a pretty active person and I love going on hikes that last all day, but unfortunately Bruce is just too old to keep up with me for something like that. A great dog breed for an active lifestyle is a Boxer! Boxers are super high energy, active pups who need a ton of exercise, making them a perfect companion for somebody who likes to go on adventures. However, any time you bring a dog home, there are more things to consider than just their energy levels. Shedding can be a make or break factor in a decision to get a dog for many people. Boxers are no exception. I will talk about the history of the breed, their shedding, how to manage it and some tools that I keep on hand to help keep shedding from taking over. Hopefully this guide will help you decide if a Boxer is the right fit for your home! History of Boxers The origin of the Boxer dates back all the way to 2, B. There is not a ton of information about the dogs at that time, but they continued to be working dogs throughout history. In the s, they were greatly used for big game hunting in Germany. The breed got its name from the way they spar their paws during playing, much like a professional boxer holds their fists. Boxers are natural working dogs and have held jobs in police work, hunting, farming and protection. These days they are still used as work dogs but are much more common as just a fun-loving companion. Boxers have a short, shiny and soft coat that has natural oils to help deflect water. Their fur is soft and sleek, and comes in mostly black and tan patterns or brindle. Boxers typically have distinct black markings around their faces, which is also where their softest, kissable fur is! Do Boxers Shed? How Much? Yes boxers do shed but because their fur is so short and sleek, Boxers actually only do shed moderately. Being occasional shedders, this means you will see some dog hair coming off but not much at one time. This is not as likely with a Boxer! You might see a little fur come loose, especially if you give them a good back scratch, but not a lot. When do Boxers Shed the Most? Many dogs shed pretty regularly throughout the year. However, there are some factors that will increase their shedding. There are two times of the year when dogs shed more than ever. These two times are called shedding seasons. They occur during the transition from winter to summer and again from summer to winter. During shedding season, Boxers, like most other dogs, shed their previous coat to make room for the new one to grow in. They then shed that thicker coat during the transition to summer to grow in their lighter summer coat. Not only is this crucial for dogs to keep their body temperatures at a healthy level, it is also important for dog parents to remember! Boxers have natural oils that keep their skin and fur healthy. When they shed a lot, brushing them out helps get rid of all the loose fur and distribute those oils to keep their skin healthy. This also helps promote healthy new fur growth! Stage of Life Have you ever snuggled a puppy with their baby soft fur? Puppies will shed that soft fur as they mature, which might make it seem like the shedding will be a never ending mess. Pests and Skin Conditions Bugs like ticks and fleas are an unfortunate part of our natural world. They can wreak havoc on dogs, causing them to scratch and lick like crazy. That licking and scratching can lead to excess shedding. If you see your dog showing these behaviors, make sure you check them for pests. Those bugs could also carry bacteria that leads to skin conditions, such as mange-carrying mites. These conditions can be miserable for pups, so look closely! It can be a little difficult to find these pests on a Boxer due to their dark fur coloring. Pay extra attention to wear your dog is licking or scratching to help you narrow down the problem areas! Diet and Exercise I will always tell people that health starts from the inside out. A dog will not have a healthy coat or skin if they are not getting the right nutrition and exercise! Boxer parents especially need to remember this. Boxers are extremely active and high energy, which means they need the right nutrients to keep up with them. Without it, their skin and fur will show signs of lacking nutrients. This might even cause them to shed more than normal or in abnormal ways, such as patches. Many dogs that are overweight or underweight suffer from secondary effects like hair loss or just overall unhealthy skin and coats. How to Combat Boxer Shedding Let me first clarify that shedding is normal, natural and necessary for dogs, especially Boxers. That being said, you should never try to keep a dog from shedding. Even if that were possible, it would be incredibly unhealthy! Getting into a routine is the important part. You will want to start by keeping up on grooming. Plus, make cleaning a regular habit! Tools and Equipment to Combat Boxer Shedding There are all kinds of tools you can find to help maintain dog hair. Like I said before, a good brush is going to be one of the important ones! There really is not a bad brush to choose from when it comes to Boxers. You will want something with short, flexible bristles or even one of those handy rubber brush gloves! If you brush your Boxer once a week or even once every other week, you will be good to go. You will probably want to make sure it happens at least once a week if not more during shedding season just to be safe. I also mentioned running your vacuum regularly in the previous section, so make sure you have a good vacuum handy. Bruce is a short haired dog with a similar coat to boxers, and I know from experience that his fur sticks to every surface. It can also be tricky to vacuum because his fur is so fine and short. I will never use another vacuum now that I have the Dyson for pet hair cordless vacuum. It breaks down into smaller parts and has attachments that get into the tightest corners. I love how easy it is to clean out and that it never gets clogged. It seriously makes vacuuming so much easier. It was a little pricey, but we have had it for four years now and have never had an issue with it! I consider that a worth-while investment hands down. The last tool I probably could not live without is my lint brush — yes brush, not roller! Lint rollers are a mess of problems for several reasons. They create a TON of waste, they need replaced, I go through ten sheets per leg, etc. I love my Magik Brush lint brush because it does not do any of those things! It is reusable and double-sided, so you do not have to worry about creating more trash in the environment. Plus, it is super easy to clean and works on clothes and furniture. Do Some Boxers Shed more than others? Dogs who live in different climates might shed more or less than the other. Boxers of different ages might also shed at different rates, or Boxers with different skin conditions. It all depends on the dog and the environment! Typically, two Boxers who live in the same location and are generally healthy will not shed more than the other. We will talk more about that in the next section. When you have a fever, you might feel crappy and your appearance could change. The same happens for dogs! If there are internal issues happening, you can often see it on the outside. Their skin and coats could show signs of distress such as dry, flaky skin, rashes or even fur loss. Unfortunately, many severe health conditions show symptoms like hair loss and skin problems. Especially if you have kids — Boxers are known to be great with little ones. No matter what your interests are, Boxers are a great dog breed to have and are incredibly easy to handle when it comes to shedding. Getting into the trash, however? Happy Pup Parenting! What Affects Shedding in Boxer Dogs? Many think that when the seasons change, the temperature has the biggest impact on dogs. What can trigger the change is the change in the amount of sunlight in a day. Your location is also a factor on whether how light or strong your boxer sheds his hair. Boxer dogs and other dogs with the same coat length can begin shedding at areas with 13 to 14 hours of daylight. When the days begin to become shorter, the coat starts to thicken up again. This is opposed to spring and summer when the coat sheds off again. So how can you keep up with boxer dogs shedding like crazy? Many owners complain that the heaviest shed for boxer dogs is around spring. This is where boxers are shedding more than usual. Puppies themselves will have a different thickness on their coats. Look for types of food that your pet will love and one that is good for its body. A bad diet can also lead to an unhealthy coat. An unhealthy coat can contribute to shedding even without daylight. You could put in omega fatty acid supplements into the mix as well. If you leave the hairs unattended, it can hinder the coat from producing new and healthy hairs. Your boxer would end up looking unkempt because of its old and dead coat. Yeast infection could develop because of the trapped moisture between the coat and skin. Make sure that you can brush your dog at least once a week or depending on how much hair your pet has. Give them a proper bath and choose the right shampoo them. There are even vacuum suction tools for grooming that can make the process easier. If you want to stick with the normal grooming, go for a pin or slicker brush. The important thing is that your dog is always clean and healthy. Go for the best option on how to cope with boxer dogs shedding like crazy and never have the same problem again. Sarah Andrews Hi I'm Sarah, dog lover and blogger. I was born into a dog-loving family and have been a proud doggy mommy ever since I can remember. I love sharing my dog knowledge and love being an active part of the dog-loving community. Related Posts. Boxer Dog Shedding Overview Breeds can be categorized into light, moderate or heavy shedders. Where does the Boxer dog fit into that? This said, there are some factors that can make it appear that a Boxer is having super heavy sheds, and there are some conditions that can cause excessive coat loss. In this section we'll cover the details of: How much a Boxer dog sheds The many elements that will affect the amount of shedding and possible cause what owners would consider to be a shedding problem The best grooming and shedding tools and brushes that work for this breed Tips and advice to cut down on the amount of coat loss that your Boxer may experience Signs of hair loss that may point to issues other than normal and expected shedding How Much Does a Boxer Shed? The breed is considered to be a moderate shedder, but what does that really mean? Some light shedders are dogs that have hair as opposed to fur yet the hairs do continually cycle, just like human hairs and others are considered to be light shedders due to the length or texture of the coat. Heavy shedders, such as the Golden Retriever or the Husky have what can be called a furious shed - clumps fall out - there is almost a continual thick shedding of the coat. The Boxer breed typically falls between these two categories. Here we are going to cover: How much does a Boxer dog shed? The many elements that will affect the amount of shedding and possible cause what owners would consider to be a shedding problem The best grooming and shedding tools and brushes that work for this breed Tips and advice to cut down on the amount of coat loss that your Boxer may experience Signs of hair loss that may point to issues other than normal and expected shedding While many factors will influence how much shedding an owner can expect to deal with, in general, the coat will need a good brushing once a week and during certain times of the year again, depending on different factors there will be a heavier shed in which the Boxer dog may need a good brushing or raking every other day and you'll be wanting to have your vacuum cleaner and lint brushes at the ready. The Elements that will Affect the Amount of Shedding Puppy to Adult - You may find that shedding picks up close to the 1 year mark and then decreases and levels out after the 2 year mark. Because during this time the puppy coat is being shed and is being replaced by the adult coat. It should also be mentioned that you may notice some color changes during this time as well. Most are not drastic, however the adult coat may come in a bit darker, or lighter - and with some dogs this will change the shininess of the coat. Genetics Genetics play a role in how much a Boxer dog will shed. First, we must factor in texture - German, UK or American lines will have different textures. In addition, thickness of the coat can vary even with puppies from the same litter - some may take after the sire and some may take after the dam. Care Elements Exposure to sunlight, the area in which you live, the supplements that you do or do not give to your dog… all of these elements come together and affect the shedding process. Seasonal When people talk about seasonal shedding, many assume that it is the change in temperature that causes a shed. However, it is the amount of sunlight in the day that actually triggers the change and this does of course correspond with temperatures. Whether or not your Boxer dog experiences this seasonal shed will depend on where you reside. In areas that have drastic changes of sunlight hours in the fall and then again in the springtime, a dog's body will respond. In locations that receive 6 to 7 hours of sun in the winter compared to 13 or 14 in the summer, the dog's pineal gland will be triggered which sends the signal to the body to shed the coat. As you probably know, a thickening of the coat will begin as the days become shorter and in the spring, as days become longer, this thicker coat will begin to shed off. For many, the heaviest shed with occur with the spring seasonal shedding phase - April through May. It is usually this phase that has owners wondering why their Boxer is shedding like crazy. Food and diet affect shedding and this is because if a dog is receiving the right balance of nutrients, both skin and coat will be healthy. Alternatively, if a dog is not receiving the proper vitamins and nutrients that are needed, this makes for an unhealthy coat that will be much more prone to shedding off, regardless of the time of year. You'll want to choose wisely in regard to main meals Read more in the Feeding section and in addition to that 2 elements are important: 1- A daily vitamin and mineral supplement may be needed. This is pertinent to dogs that eat whole home cooked foods though super healthy, just like high quality commercial brands, this should be mixed in. And for other dogs under certain conditions. The Female Shed Hormonal changes that occur due to the heat cycle will affect the coat and shedding. For many un-spayed female Boxer dogs, there will be a heavier shed than usual toward the end of the heat cycle. In addition, there is often a deep, heavy shed that occurs after giving birth since pregnancy brings about a drastic change in hormones. Keeping a grooming routine is recommended, since time can fly by so fast and if we do not purposely set aside time for brushing the coat, things can get out of hand. Every day, every hour, every minute, hairs are being shed off - even if you do not see this. Each follicle goes through 3 stages: Growth, rest, falling out. During a typical week, hairs are falling out and a good amount of them are settling back down into the coat. And this can cause problems. If brushing is not done on a regular basic, these dead hairs will accumulate and become compacted under the coat and against the skin. When this happens, they create a barrier - it cuts off healthy air circulation to the skin and it creates a barrier that traps moisture yeast infections can then develop. Therefore, choosing 1 day a week to do a good, all over body brushing is recommended to pull out dead hairs and leave the coat healthy to continue its normal shedding process. When brushing, be sure that you do not just skim over the top of the coat. It is important to brush down to the skin and then up and out, releasing those shedded hairs. As you go, clean the grooming tool as needed. In addition, aside from the belly, there is no other area that should go untouched. Back, tail, legs… all should be brushed. It is suggested to work in sections so that no areas are accidentally missed. During times of heavy shed, you will find that changing your brush or rake will be needed. More ahead. Bathing - Too many baths will dry out the skin which often leads to an unhealthy coat - and too few baths allows dirt and debris to settle into the coat which also affects the skin and the health of the fur. Therefore, staying on schedule with baths is another step to keeping the shedding under control. If your Boxer puppy or dog has run through mud or has splashed through any puddles that may contain ice melt chemicals, an extra bath will be needed. Grooming Outside - The Boxer, more so than many other more fragile dog breeds, can have certain grooming procedures done outside. However, there are exceptions. What to keep in mind? Young puppies that have not yet become accustomed to bath time often do not fare well when sprayed with a garden hose - Getting used to water, just like many other elements of the world, takes time - and puppies do best with a slow, gradual process that allows them to learn about an element such as baths and brushings, dental care, etc. In addition, a Boxer should not be wet down outdoors if the temperature is under 55 degrees Fahrenheit 10 Celsius ; young puppies and older senior dogs in particular will be prone to becoming chilled. For shedding Boxer dogs, brushing the coat outside is just fine, however one should also take into consideration the weather for this grooming need as well. If the temps are soaring, choose a spot in the shade. If it is chilly or cold outside, you might need to be extra vigilant as not to rush the brushing. Another tip to keep in mind is the wind direction; position your Boxer dog and yourself so that the breeze takes loose hairs away from you and not toward the door of the house. Vacuuming with the Correct Machine - Vacuuming on a regular basis will help keep the floors from gathering shedded hairs, however in areas with foot traffic, the hairs can quickly settle down into the carpet fibers at which time a "normal" vacuum cleaner may not be strong enough to pull them out. Particularly for those who have wall to wall carpeting, a strong suction is needed. For homes without central air circulation systems with replaceable filters, choosing to obtain a vacuum that also cleans the air as it clean the hairs is recommended. For fabric sofas, we have found that simple tape lint rollers work excellent. The Best Grooming Tools and Brushes for Boxer Dog Shedding There are hundreds of brushes, rakes and even vacuum suction grooming tools that all claim to work the best. So, what is an owner to do? However, for shedding you do not need to go with what is most expensive or any sort of complicated grooming device. Along with this, exposed skin may be red and irritated. Itching - Normal shedding does not cause irritation and does not cause a dog to scratch. The only time that it would indirectly cause this sort of issue, is if the coat has not been brushed as needed - thus allowing fallen hairs to settle deep down in the coat, near the skin, trapping moisture and blocking air circulation Any behavior or physical symptoms that are out of the ordinary loss of appetite, whining, restlessness, etc. Any time that you notice unusual hair loss, whether this be an allover thinning or patches that are appearing, this is a sign of an issue that warrants a checkup with the veterinarian. In many cases, it will be a skin disorder in which thinning hair is one of the symptoms. Balding along the sides of the body may be seasonal flank alopecia. Since alopecia simply means 'hair loss", this is a loss of coat that can happen each year, but is much more severe than average shedding. With this condition - to which the Boxer breed is prone - 3 things generally happen: 1- Loss of coat on the sides of the body usually just about the hind legs and sometimes on the bridge of the snout will result in bald spots. The sensitive skin often responds well to ResQ Organics Pet Skin Treatment results can actually be quite amazing, with blacken skin often flaking off - with daily use - and an excellent response with the re-growth of fur. Another possible issue may be allergies, as reactions can cause skin and coat issues that may be mistaken for shedding, especially in the early stages. Less common, but still a potential cause would be a thyroid imbalance. Boxer dog drooling - While all breeds drool to some extent and the Boxer may do so even more due to the mouth and lips, learn what is considered normal and what is not. Boxer origin Boxer pros and cons Owning a Boxer comes with pros and cons associated with this breed. Boxers are highly active and can spend hours playing with older kids. These family friendly dogs need a couple of hours of exercise every day, which is an advantage for families with energetic children. There are more Boxer dog pros and being responsive to positive training is one of them. Boxers are eager to learn new commands and a small treat as a reward for good behavior goes a long way during training process. Boxers are naturally curious and enjoy mental exercises. Provide your pet with an interactive dog toy or a treat dispenser and let the Boxer use his intellectual abilities as he is figuring out how to get the treats out of the toy. Boxer cons include the following. Boxers can be sloppy eaters which can be a shock to a new Boxer owner. Boxers are brachycephalic and can easily get overheated during the hot weather. Boxers need to be in an air conditioned room during hot summer days to prevent overheating. Owning a Boxer breed has another disadvantage - this brachycephalic breed is not accepted by most airlines and traveling by plane can be an issue for Boxer dog owners if they want to bring the dog along for the trip. Boxers are highly active and leaving a Boxer home alone with nothing to do is asking for trouble. The disadvantage of owning a high energy dog breed is that unless the dog has a constructive outlet for his energy, the Boxer is prone to destructive behaviors. The dog will try to find something to keep himself busy such as excessive barking, chewing on things that may be valuable to the owners or scratching furniture. Energetic and active owners who can spend most of the time with the dog are ideal for Boxers. Boxer shedding Do Boxers shed? Yes, and even though this dog breed is short coated, Boxers need regular brushing to minimize the amount of dog hair around the house. Furminator deshedding tool can be used to keep Boxer shedding to a minimum. See video below where a Boxer owner is testing a Furminator brush. Boxers have a short coat and Furminator deshedding tool for short coat can effectively help to remove the dead hair from the dog's coat. Boxer dog size Boxer male weight: 66 to 70 lb 30 to 32 kg Boxer female weight: 55 to 59 lb 25 to 27 kg Boxer dog size Boxer male height: 22 to 25 inches at the withers 57 to 63 cm Boxer female height: 20 to 23 inches at the withers 53 to 60 cm Boxer coat: smooth, short and tight-fitting Boxer dog color: fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white How many puppies do Boxers have? Boxer litter size: 4 to 8 puppies How long do Boxers live? Boxer lifespan: 9 to 11 years How much does a Boxer dog cost? This is an alert dog and his temperament is steadfast and tractable. If you like a quiet life, a Boxer breed is not for you. Boxers have a lot of energy and need about two hours of exercise every day, otherwise the Boxer may look for other ways to use his energy and can engage in destructive behaviors. Lively, boisterous boxers will not be happy sitting in an apartment all day long. This athletic breed needs a lot of space to run around and as a result the dog breed is not recommended for small apartments. Although this breed needs to live indoors, having a backyard where your Boxer can stretch his legs can help to satisfy the dog's need to release its boundless energy. Are Boxers good with kids? Boxers are great for families with kids and make loving and loyal companion dogs that live to please their owners. Boxers need to be around their families as they are very sociable dogs and if you are not able to spend a lot of time with your Boxer then consider getting two Boxers for companionship. Boxers do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They tend to stay energetic until the old age. Even at ten years of age your Boxer may still act like a two year old dog in terms of energy. Many Boxer owners agree that this is a very clever dog breed. If at first a Boxer doesn't succeed at getting what he wants, he will try as many different ways as necessary until he succeeds. Some Boxers even learn to open a refrigerator doors and help themselves with a snack. For someone who has never owned a Boxer seeing a Boxer eating and drinking may be a shocking event. Boxer dogs aren't very neat eaters. Boxer owners are used to their dogs sprinkling of dinner remnants around the food bowl and water may be dribbled across the floor as the dog moves away from his bowl. The dog is not intentionally trying to be messy. The way the jaw and the upper hanging lips are constructed makes it impossible for the dog to be a neat eater or drinker. Drooling may also be an issue for this breed when a Boxer is exercising or when he spots something that smells like a good dinner. Boxers are also known for their flatulence especially after a meal. This can be quite offensive to owners of more delicate constructions, but most Boxer owners take it in stride. The reason for Boxer flatulence may stem from digesting certain foods and can be controlled through a carefully selected diet. Originally bred as a guarding breed, Boxers may be wary with strangers. This fearless dog will show curiosity and courage if threatened. Socialize your Boxer early on to raise a confident and well-mannered dog that will be your pride and joy. German boxers have bigger bone structure, bigger heads and have more muscle than American and English Boxers. All three Boxer types tend to have a dominant temperament and need an owner, capable of being a fair, but kind leader. Boxers are used for police dogs, military work, search and rescue, competitive obedience and more. This working breed is suitable for active families that enjoy spending time with the energetic dog. The white color fell out of favor when it was discovered that a white messenger dog was much more visible at night than a darkly colored dog. In the United States, the standard has always read that a Boxer dog with too much white possesses a disqualifying fault despite the fact that as much as 25 percent of every litter is white. There are fanciers of white Boxers who would like to see the white Boxer accepted as an allowable color in the breed standard as well as in breeding programs. Critics say that this would cause issues because the white coat color is linked to genetic deafness, which would add one more health issue for breeders to worry about. Currently, white Boxer owners can get Purebred Alternative Listing numbers for their dogs and compete in many of the AKC's performance events. Boxer cropped ears and docked tails To achieve the permanently erect Boxer ears, the ears must be trimmed to a point and the edges stitched to close the wound. The ears must then be taped and put in a rack so that they heal in the proper position and don't flop. The procedure is performed by a veterinarian with the Boxer under anesthetic. The breed's ears have been cropped in this fashion since the beginning of the breed. Since the s, however, it has been illegal in many countries to crop a dog's ears. German boxers have been spotting natural ears for decades now. In the United States, an increasing number of Boxer owners are not cropping their dogs' ears, either because they favor the look of the natural ear, or they don't want to spend the money and time necessary to insure that the cropped ears will heal correctly. The breed standard was revised in , to include guidelines for judging natural or uncropped ears. This revision effectively allowed Boxers with uncropped ears to be competitive in the show ring with cropped-ear Boxers. Boxer tails are generally docked by a veterinarian within the first few days following the puppies' birth. This is not so anymore in many European countries where tail docking has been banned and the Boxer has a full tail. Currently a natural tail is not desirable in the show ring, but it is not a disqualification. This allows European Boxers with natural ears and tails to compete with American Boxers in the ring. Some German trainers relate that after decades of working with docked tails and now working with full tails, they believe the full tail gives the Boxer more balance and agility. Boxer supplies Depending on your financial situation, dog ownership may be very expensive. This is just the initial cost of the dog that does not include other first year ownership expenses that include: Dog crates for Boxers A crate trained dog is much easier to travel with because the dog is in a familiar environment during the trip, which helps to minimize the travel related stress. Transporting a Boxer in a crate is the safest way to travel with the dog as the dog is not likely to accidentally escape. Crate should be used as the dog's sleeping area at home. Dogs are den living animals and they need to have a space where they can rest and enjoy a peaceful time. A young Boxer puppy may get in a lot of trouble if left alone even for an hour. A crate can keep the puppy and your belongings safe when you can not supervise the dog. Do not leave a Boxer puppy for longer than an hour or two in a crate. Dogs should not be locked in a crate for hours on end. A crate should not be used as a way to punish the dog - this will only deter the dog from using the crate in the future. A crate is a great potty training tool when used properly. Dogs do not like to soil the area where they sleep and can be housetrained easier than dogs that are allowed to run free during housebreaking time. Dog nail clippers will help to care for Boxer's nails. Trim the dog's nails once every six weeks. Overgrown nails can cause pain and discomfort as the dog is walking and in severe cases can even change the dog's gait. If you accidenally cut your Boxer's nail too much and the dog nail is bleeding, styptic powder can quickly help stop bleeding. There are other expenses not mentioned above that may include medical emergencies, dog training, vacation boarding and more that can really add up to the first year of owning a Boxer. Boxer dog training The intelligence, versatility and athleticism of the breed make a Boxer a good choice for a variety of competitive sports including agility, flyball, disk competitions, and Schutzhund. Boxers are natural agility dogs that are quite trainable. It is important to start training your Boxer at a young age. Boxers can jump on furniture and if you are not planning to let your Boxer take over the couch then provide the dog with his own dog bed and train your Boxer to not jump on furniture in the house. Training the Boxer starts the minute you bring the puppy home. Establish the house rules as soon as the Boxer puppy arrives. It is easier to train your Boxer not to jump on any house furniture from the very beginning. There should be no exceptions and all family members need to follow the same rules for the dog to realize that jumping on a furniture is not allowed. Boxers may be tempted to eat off of countertops in the kitchen and you may wish to train your Boxer to not enter the kitchen area at all. Puppy proof your home before you bring a Boxer puppy. Boxer puppies are very active up until about eighteen months of age and need constant supervision. It is important to play with Boxer puppies and to socialize them. Take the puppy with you whenever dogs are allowed to go and introduce him to different people of all ages. Let your dog experience the sounds of traffic on a busy street and be petted by kids in the park. Your goal is to introduce your puppy to as many new experiences as possible while keeping the dog comfortable and relaxed in the process. A well-socialized dog is confident and comfortable in different environments because the owners took the time to introduce the dog to all kinds of circumstances while the dog was still a puppy. Boxer puppies need an owner with a lot of energy so that the person can keep up with the energetic puppies. For older people it is best to get an older boxer as the dog is better matched to the owners in energy levels. Boxers are prey-driven and as a result getting a kitten when you have an adult Boxer at home may not end well. Boxers need to be socialized to other pets starting at an early age. If you are getting a Boxer puppy, it is much easier to accustom the young dog to a kitten or a cat. Boxers are known to enjoy chewing on things. They chew because of boredom or due to teething. You can not stop the chewing instinct, but you can provide your dog with the chewing dog toys that are safe for your pet to chew on. Let your dog enjoy a chewing toy or a rawhide bone to keep the dog happy and your shoes safe. Keep your shoes and other things that the dog may find fun to chew away from the Boxer's view. If you find your pet chewing on something he is not supposed to chew, calmly replace the item with a chewing toy. With time the dog will learn which things he is allowed to chew on. Digging is another hobby that some Boxer dogs are so fond of. If your Boxer likes to dig in your beautiful garden, it is a good idea to allocate a spot in the garden where your Boxer can dig his tunnel straight to China if he likes, otherwise you may see many craters in the garden and this can take the joy away from any proud gardener. To encourage your Boxer to dig in the spot that is allocated for his digging, place some dog toys or chewing bones in that area to attract your dog to that specific area and thus save the rest of your garden. Other ways of managing the digging behavior include lots of physical activity, long walks, mental stimulation so that your dog is busy with activities other than digging. Happy Boxers do not get destructive because they spend most of their time with their owners and are supervised most of the time. Happy Boxers get plenty of love and interaction from humans and are much less likely to get bored and then destructive. Once you bring a Boxer home, it is time to start housetraining him. Potty training a Boxer requires your attention and dedication. Be on the lookout for the signs that the Boxer puppy is ready to use a potty. The potty readiness signs include the dog sniffing the floor and walking in circles, looking for the perfect spot to do his deed. As soon as you notice any of these signes, take the Boxer to the designated potty area and let the dog do his thing. You may want to pick a command word for potty training, for example, say "Go Potty" as the dog is busy in the potty area. As soon as the dog is done, praise him and give the Boxer a small treat right away. This will help a Boxer to associate using the potty in the right place with getting rewarded and he will soon understand what is required of him. Do not punish the Boxer dog for accidents that are bound to happen during housetraining. Clean up the accident and continue to monitor the dog for the signs of readiness to use the bathroom. Use a dog odor clean up solution to completely eliminate the odor of the dog's urine. If the dog can smell his urine in any area, he is more likely to use the area again as his toilet. Dog clean up products are can help to completely removing the odor that dogs associate with potty area. Punishing the Boxer dog for any accidents will make the housetraining more difficult and can slow the housetraining process. Stay consistent and positive during housetraining for faster training results. Best dog brush for Boxers Brush your Boxer's coat with a rubber brush that will remove all the dead hair. Rubber dog brush should ideally be used at least once a week. Rubber brushes help to increase circulation in the dog's skin and keeps the coat nice and shiny. The short coated dog can not tolerate cold weather too long and should never be left outside. A Boxer is known as a brachycephalic breed, meaning it has a short nose and can not efficiently cool off during hot summer weather. Never leave your Boxer outside when the temperature is very hot and do not exercise your Boxer during the hot weather. Boxers have a short coat that doesn't protect the dog during walks on cold winter days. A good dog coat can help to keep your four legged friend warm and dry. In the winter many roads are sprinkled with ice melting chemicals that can cause burns or irritation to Boxer's paws. Wipe the dog's feet to remove any ice or chemicals off the dog's paws after each walk. Bathe the dog when necessary. It is not recommended to wash a Boxer more than once a month as frequent bathing may result in dry and itchy skin. Use a mild dog shampoo for bathing your dog. Dog shower attachment can make bathing your Boxer easier. Grooming wipes can be used to clean Boxer's skin folds, eye stains and so on. Boxer dog's teeth need to be brushed every day to remove plaque. Unless plaque is removed, it will harden into a yellow tartar on the dog's teeth, harboring harmful bacteria. More than a half of all dogs suffer from dental issues by the age of 2 years old. Many owners do not realize that their dog's teeth need to be brushed daily. Early dental care with daily brushing will help your Boxer to get used to the procedure of having the teeth brushed. Use dog toothpaste to brush your pet's teeth as human toothpaste is not safe for dogs. A good quality dog bed can keep your Boxer well rested and less interested in taking over your furniture. Healthy Boxers and older Boxers that may be suffering from arthritis can enjoy an orthopedic dog bed. Getting an ortho dog bed with a removable cover can help to keep it clean and fresh. Best dog food for Boxers Experts recommend to feed a Boxer twice a day because due to the fact that Boxers are a deep-chested dog breed, they are susceptible to Bloat which can result from overeating or overdrinking. Be careful about the amount of food you're feeding your Boxer. You don't want to overfeed your dog at one time. Boxers need to be in calm state when they are eating so that they do not swallow a lot of air along with the food. This helps to prevent Bloat. Keep your Boxer in a healthy weight. Overweight Boxers often have joint problems and they do not live as long as Boxers in healthy weight in general. Feed your Boxer with a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. Good nutrition will help your Boxer to live a longer and healthier life. The average Boxer life expectancy is between nine and eleven years and some Boxer dogs live up to thirteen years or even more, depending on the general care and overall health of the dog. Do not feed your dog with human food as it does not have all the nutrients to keep the dog healthy. There are so many different dog food varieties. Many owners wonder if it's best to use wet dog food or dry dog food for their Boxer. The one advantage that dry dog food has is that it helps to keep the teeth clean and strong because it requires more chewing action as the dog is eating. In order to determine if your Boxer is too thin, too fat or just right, feel the flesh covering your dog's ribs. If you exert slight pressure and can't feel any ribs, your Boxer needs to begin cutting back on his daily intake. If you are not exercising your Boxer, this could be a factor too. If you exert slight pressure and feel the dog's ribs, he is most likely about where he needs to be on the scale. If you don't even have to push your dog's sides to feel ribs, you will need to increase your dog's body weight. If a thin dog is eating but not gaining weight, be sure to have your veterinarian rule out that your dog's thinness is not being caused by parasites or disease. Best dog food for Boxers is made by a recognized manufacturer that meets your dog's daily nutritional requirements. Your Boxer should also like the way his dog food tastes otherwise the dog may refuse eating it no matter how nutritious the food is. These certified foods have undergone feeding trials to prove that they at least meet minimal standards. For owners of more than one dog, feeding them in their crates will help to avoid unnecessary squabbles between dogs and is one more step required to prevent grudge from developing between two antagonistic Boxers. Boxer health issues Boxers are prone to heart diseases. Check with the Boxer breeder if the dog was tested for serious hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, ARVC, and subaortic stenosis before you get one. Bloat can be an issue for Boxers as the breed is deep chested. Feed the dog twice a day to lower the chance of the dog developing bloat. Although many Boxer owners adore the dog's short snout, brachycephalic breeds have cons associated with the short muzzle. For example, Boxers are brachycephalic and they can not effectively cool themselves during very hot weather. Keep your Boxer dog in an air-conditioned room during hot summer days and provide the dog with fresh drinking water. Another health related disadvantage for Boxers is that the dog breed is susceptible to cancer. Boxer allergies Boxers are susceptible to allergies, which is another Boxer dog breed con. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, certain grasses, leaf mold and even flea bites and certain foods can cause a reaction in your dog. Usually, a dog suffering form allergies will lick the pads of his feet, chew on his knuckles, rub his face, and scratch is belly or under his front legs. Severe allergic reactions can trigger ear infections that require immediate veterinary attention. Chronic allergies in dogs can cause skin infections, too. The Boxer typically responds to allergens with itchy, scaly skin and ear infections. Usually a veterinarian will prescribe something to immediately help to lessen the dog's discomfort. Antihistamines, steroids, cyclosporine, or topical medications may be prescribed, as well as medicated shampoos. If the dog's condition doesn't improve, the veterinarian will want to eliminate the possibility that the discomfort stems from food allergies. To clear the most common food ingredients that cause allergic reactions, your veterinarian will have you feed your Boxer a hypoallergenic food for six weeks and then gradually introduce individual proteins and grains. If food allergies are ruled out and the problem recurs, allergy testing by a specialist is probably in order. Boxer ear infection Whether your Boxer's ears are cropped or natural, chances are he may suffer from ear infection at some point in life. Ear infections are commonly caused by allergies and by foreign bodies in the ear. Ear infections can be detected early by regularly smelling your Boxer's ears. An infection will be foul smelling and strong. There may also be excessive discharge coming from the affected ear. Untreated infections can lead to middle and inner ear infections which are more serious and more difficult to treat. Take your Boxer to the veterinary clinic as soon as you notice any signs of ear infections in your pet. Boxer origin Boxer breed was created in the 19th century in Germany. The following breeds were the selected as parents of the modern day boxer: Brabanter Bullenbeisser a hunting breed that is now extinct and originated in Brabant, Belgium and an early form of English Bulldog, which are mastiff type dogs. Both of these breeds were developed for the same purpose. This breeding introduced white and particolored or "check" dogs, and was the foundation of the Boxer breed as we know it today. How does Boxer dog compare to other dog breeds. Boxers are very easy to groom, only minimal effort is required. Brushing once or twice per week with a firm bristle brush or rubber brush is all that is needed to maintain their coat and this will help limit the shedding. Or at least, how much of their fur ends up in your home. A bristle brush is just a regular dog brush that is made up of either hard, medium or soft bristles, and a rubber brush is a term used to describe a brush with rubber on the ends instead of bristles. This is also known as a curry comb or curry brush, and can also come in the form of a hand mitt. And not only can this help limit the amount of fur he drops, but also helps to spread his coat oils, which in turn promotes a healthier, moisture-rich coat. What about bathing? It is tempting tp bath more often, since this can help remove a lot of excess fur, but over bathing can cause dryness and irritation in the skin, which can actually increase the shedding. All dogs with hair shed at least some of it. Shedding or molting is a natural process whereby your dog is simply dropping his older hairs to make way for the new batch. More specifically, it has to do with the hair growth cycle. But you can manage it and limit how much of the fur ends up gathering around the home. And this mostly comes down to proper grooming and diet. However, some people prefer to use a de-shedding brush during shedding season, as these can be very effective at removing the dead fur. Related: 13 Ways to Stop Excessive Dog Shedding When it comes to diet, speak with your vet about selecting the best possible dog food for your Boxer. A high-quality dog food, that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and things like Omega-3, can not only improve his overall health and wellbeing but also help with shedding. And second, a healthy, well-balanced diet can improve his skin and coat. Which in turn can lead to stronger hair follicles and less shedding overall. Nor are there any supplements that will eliminate the problem either. But with proper diet and grooming, you can manage it and keep your home as fur-free as possible. The key is consistency. And even though you probably will notice some fur around the home, managing it is fairly straightforward. Like the Boxerdoodle , for example, which is a mix between a Boxer and Poodle low shedding breed. Just keep in mind that, even though Boxerdoodles shed less, their coat is higher maintenance. Boxers display a single coat of very short hair. It should be shiny and healthy, requiring little grooming under normal circumstances. Overall, Boxers are considered to be clean dogs with low maintenance needs. They only need minimal grooming and bathing. For the most part, Boxers are also low-shedding dogs. This means that they rarely shed a lot at once. Rather, they tend to shed a small amount all year round. Thankfully, the single coat that Boxers sport makes it easy to keep the mess from shedding to a minimum. They definitely do shed though, and they will continue to shed year-round. In some cases, things are made even worse by the addition of extraneous factors that contribute to excess shedding. Even a Boxer can shed enough to drive you mad under certain circumstances. Unfortunately, there are many things that can make your Boxer shed more than normal. If you think your Boxer is shedding more than normal, look for signs of any of the following conditions. Ironically, your Boxer can experience ill effects from eating too much or too little of particular nutrients. This can happen when feeding your Boxer a homemade diet or commercial food if either contains nutrient deficiencies or excesses. Even on a commercial diet of high-quality dog food, your Boxer may require supplementation to keep its coat and skin at peak health. A dehydrated Boxer will also have dehydrated skin, and that can lead to accelerated hair loss. Stress and Anxiety If your Boxer is overly stressed or anxious, they could start losing their coat much quicker. Excess shedding is common in dogs that are experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety can both be caused by a myriad of factors. Allergies Boxers can be allergic to all sorts of things, and hair loss is a normal side effect of many allergies. Canine allergies are split into four categories: flea allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and genetic allergies. If your Boxer has any type of allergy, it could be causing undue shedding. One common shampoo mistake is to use human shampoo on your Boxer. Actually, no. Human shampoos are much harsher than the shampoos made for dogs. Shampoo for humans is designed to wash away the top layer of our skin called the acid mantle. The excessive shedding will cease a short time after giving birth. Hormones Some skin orders are the result of hormonal imbalances. For example, Alopecia is caused when reproductive hormones are out of balance. It then leads to hair loss, eventually progressing into baldness. Boxers are specifically at risk for such hormonal conditions since females can be affected by estrogen-responsive ovarian imbalance II and they can be caused in males by excess buildup of estrogen from testicular tumors. Infection Many types of infections can result in excessive shedding. Parasites, mites, fleas, and ticks are all relatively common infections for Boxers. All of these infections can cause your dog to shed more than is normal. Other health problems can have the same result, including cancer. Excess hair loss can be a symptom of many underlying health issues, so if your Boxer is shedding far more than they should be, you might want to schedule a trip to the vet and see why. Even so, the daily pileup of hair in every corner of your home can become a frustrating nuisance. Removing all of those loose, dead hairs is a surefire way to reduce the amount of shedding occurring in your home. As it is, those dead hairs are slowly falling off your Boxer as they walk around your home. This causes those errant hairs to pile up in corners and under furniture. More of it will stick to surfaces that your Boxer comes into contact; particularly, the textiles like your furniture and clothing. If you want to get the best of both worlds, you can opt for a brush like this premium short hair dog brush that offers firm bristles on one side and rubber bristles on the other. It makes grooming time a lot easier! These issues include nutrient deficiencies and the opposite; excess intake of any particular nutrient. Such problems tend to occur more often in dogs that eat homemade diets. For most Boxers, simply switching to a high-quality commercial blend will ensure adequate nutrition. Ensure Adequate Hydration When your Boxer becomes dehydrated, even slightly, their skin will also dehydrate, becoming dry and flaky. The solution to this problem is clear and simple: make sure your boxer has constant access to as much clean drinking water as it needs. If you want to take things even further, try using a de-shedding shampoo made for dogs. Pay attention to the people and incidents that cause your dog to act stressed and do your best to mitigate or eliminate these stressors. You could even work in some basic agility to really take things to the next level of exercise. Whatever you do, just keep your boxer active! Sometimes, there are no clear stressors for you to remove but your Boxer is stressed often or even all the time. In such cases, you should take your dog to the vet and let them investigate. The only way to know for sure is to take your dog to the vet and get a professional evaluation. A good vet should be able to check for a wide range of potential health concerns. It can be difficult to determine if your Boxer is shedding a healthy amount or more than is normal. Brittle or coarse hair is an indication of poor coat health. Should you feel that your Boxer is shedding more than is normal, then there might be an underlying condition such as allergies, illness, poor diet, or stress. Most causes of excessive shedding are easy to manage or cure, but some, such as underlying illness, might require professional veterinary attention. No matter why your Boxer is shedding so much, you can help to reduce the problem with daily grooming, more frequent bathing, dietary improvements, and ensuring adequate hydration with constant access to clean water. Growing up with a family full of pets and a lifelong passion for animals he pursued work in the veterinary industry. After 10 years, he started NotABully. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully. There would be less shedding if their skin is kept moisturized at all times. If their skin becomes dry, it is a sure indicator that they will shed more. Bathe Your Puppy Always wash your Boxer properly and use high-quality products. Bathe your Boxers seldom since they will shed more hair if they are bathed frequently. Bathing a boxer too regularly causes their skin to dry up, resulting in increased shedding. Furthermore, it is advised to always use a good quality shampoo that can assist in moisturizing their skin, since their natural oil may easily be rinsed away with the water, and without a good quality shampoo, you will not be able to moisturize their skin right after the bath. This way, you can minimize the month of fur around your home and the hassle that comes with it all: Do not shave your dog! Never shave your Boxers since they will be unable to protect themselves from the elements and will cause additional injury to your dog. Brush your puppy outside. Do not allow your dog near your food. Allowing your Boxers in the kitchen is not a good idea since their hairs are so light and may easily move through the air and into your food. Have them sleep in their own space. Designate one space for your Boxers to sleep because they shed a lot when sleeping, and you can pick up all the dead loose hair from the floor immediately in the morning before it spreads. Train them to stay away while you eat. Wash your clothing. Vacuum your home. There is nothing you can do but buy a grooming glove and teach your children to use it. It can come in handy. Simply put the glove over your hand and run your hand over your Boxers coat to complete the look. Before you make them or allow them to roam around your house, make sure their hair is clean and brushed. This will cut down on their shedding in your home. Heather Robbins Heather is an animal lover that has many of them herself. She believes that knowledge should be the foundation of caring for any pet. Post navigation.

Padded Harnesses Types of French Bulldog Harnesses The market is full of different types of dog harnesses, each with its unique features, benefits, and limitations. Finding french bulldog harnesses can be tricky. Frenchie owners may find it tricky to pick the right harness. Here are some options! However, they might not be the best option for dogs with short snouts or those prone to tracheal issues. No Pull Harness Back Clip Harnesses Back clip harnesses have the ring leash attachment on the back and offer comfortable movement for the dog, reducing the chances of getting tangled. Back Clip French bulldog Harnesses Step In Harness Dual Clip Harnesses These offer the flexibility of both front and back ring leash attachment points, suitable for dogs at different stages of their training. Again, the Ruffwear front range harness is a dual clip harness. Most french bulldog harnesses made these days are dual clip harnesses. They are ideal for dogs that are nervous about things going over their head. Also Ideal for breeds prone to ivdd, focusing pressure more on the chest than the neck. Frenchie Friends Brand Step In Harness Padded Harnesses Padded harnesses provide additional comfort, especially for dogs with short hair or sensitive skin. Again with the Ruffwear! They really do tick all the boxes in terms of quality and features. Ruffwear Front Range Harness Introduction to French Bulldog Harnesses Dog harnesses are an essential item for dog owners worldwide, improving control and safety during walks while reducing the risk of injury to your furry friend. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right harness can be a challenging task. A great french bulldog harness is necessary for Adult Frenchie to avoid damaging the spine, causing ivdd. Frenchie Brand Dog Harness Factors to Consider when Choosing a French Bulldog Harness Several factors play a crucial role in choosing the perfect french bulldog harness for your canine companion. Reflective strips for visibility can also be a valuable addition. Pros and Cons of Harnesses Front Clip Harnesses These days all french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. This feature is particularly beneficial for dogs that tend to pull on the leash. Reduces pulling: When a dog pulls, the front clip will cause them to turn around towards you, discouraging the pulling behavior. Not suitable for short-snouted dog breeds: Dog Breeds such as pugs and french bulldogs can have issues with front clip harnesses as the pressure may be too close to their throat, causing breathing difficulties. Back Clip Harnesses Again, now most french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. Easy to clip your French bulldogs into car seats, upping the safety factor Cons: Less control: If your french bulldogs are pullers, a back-clip harness might not be the best option as it provides less control than a front-clip one. Can encourage pulling: Some dogs might feel like pulling more when the leash is attached to their back, triggering their instinct to oppose the pulling pressure. You can attach the leash at the front for training or behavior correction, and at the back when just casually walking. Cons: Complexity: These harnesses can be a bit more complex to fit and adjust correctly. Step-In Harnesses Pros: Easy to wear: Your dog only needs to step into the harness, making it a good choice for dogs that are uncomfortable with harnesses sliding over their head. Cons: Less secure: Some step-in harnesses may not provide the same level of security and may come off more easily than other types. Padded Harnesses Pros: Extra comfort: The additional padding can provide more comfort for dogs, especially those with short hair or sensitive skin. Cons: Heat retention: The extra material might make your french bulldogs warmer, which may not be ideal in hot climates or for breeds prone to overheating. Try a cooling vest in summer when using this style! Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and their comfort is paramount. French Bulldog Harness Material Dog harnesses come in a variety of materials — nylon, polyester, and leather, to name a few. Each material has its own pros and cons. Nylon French Bulldog Harnesses: Durability: Nylon is known for its strength and can withstand rough use. Variety: They come in various colors and designs. Easy to Clean: Most nylon harnesses are machine washable. Cons: Can cause rubbing: In some dogs, particularly those with short hair or sensitive skin, nylon harnesses can cause chafing. Leather Harnesses: Durability: Leather harnesses are robust and long-lasting. Aesthetic appeal: They have a luxurious and classic look. Cons: Cost: Leather harnesses tend to be more expensive. Maintenance: They require regular cleaning and conditioning to keep the leather from drying out and cracking. A harness that is too tight can cause discomfort and restricted movement, while one that is too loose may not provide adequate control and can even be a safety hazard if your dog manages to slip out of it. Pros of a Well-Fitted French Bulldog Harness: Comfort: A well-fitted french bulldog harness ensures that your french bulldogs are comfortable during walks. May irritate skin. Risk of Escaping: A loose french bulldog harness might not provide adequate control, and your french bulldogs could potentially slip out. When buying a harness, look for one with adjustable straps that can be altered to get a perfect fit. Harness Training Tips for Your French Bulldogs Training your new French Bulldog Puppy to use a harness might require some time and patience, but the benefits are worth the effort. Getting your new French bulldog puppy accustomed to a new harness might take some time and patience. Start slow, let your bulldog puppy wear the harness for short periods initially. Reward them for their cooperation with treats and positive reinforcement. Collars are not recommended for regular use until at least 7 months of age. The trachea of the french bulldog puppy is still forming. Improper use of collars and putting pressure on the french bulldogs neck and throat can cause serious damage. However a breakaway collar with a bell is smart, allowing you to hear the puppy, for the puppy to get used to the feeling of a collar, and it still allows you the ability to show a sense of style. Never leave french bulldog puppies unattended with collars and harnesses on. Starting with the French Bulldog Harness: Introduction: Let your french bulldog dog sniff and explore the new harness. Reward their curiosity with treats. Adjustment: Place the harness on your french bulldog without fastening it. Give treats and praise during this process to create positive associations. Short Sessions: Begin with short sessions of having the harness on. Gradually increase the duration as your french bulldog dog gets comfortable. Walks: Start going for short walks. Use treats and praises as reinforcement. Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are the keys to successful harness training. I know of a few companies that do! Red Dingo and Ruffwear. We prefer the over the head harness versus the step in harness. When looking at over the head harnesses, make sure to look for one with adjustable straps. French Bulldog heads can be huge and hard to get over, but once over the head, the harness can be extremely loose. Adjustable straps will make it easy to put on but securable for proper fitting. These can also be adjusted as the new french bulldog puppy grows! You will want to measure your frenchie puppy before going shopping for a puppy harness. You can find these at your local drug store or Walmart. Whether your french bulldog is small, medium, or large, you should use the same methods to measure them. To fit your french bulldog dog for a harness, you need two measurements: the neck and the chest. When measuring the neck, wrap the tape measure just below the narrow part where she normally wears a collar. The correct spot to measure will be right above them. When measuring the chest, take care to fit the tape measure around the widest part. Weight can also be a factor in finding the correct size. In addition to measurements, there are other factors that should also influence your purchase. Some harnesses are styled to fit certain body types better than others. The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is a great option for french bulldogs of all ages. Our lb french bulldogs fit in XS, lb french bulldogs fit in Small, and french bulldog pups easily fit in xxs. These french bulldog harnesses are all machine washable. The Red Dingo and Ruffwear have adjustment points, front clip, and padding. These two are my favorite. The Gooby harness is a mesh harness with an adjustable belly strap. This one is great for tiny french bulldog puppies. Kitten Collars Bells are helpful so you can hear your new french bulldog puppy beneath your feet. They come with bells and break away if the puppy should become stuck or strangled. If you are purchasing a new collar because your dog has out-grown its current collar, simply select the next size up from your measurement findings. Measure twice, buy once. But not every home has a soft tape measure. Or just take your string with you to the store! Add 1 — 2 inches to the initial measurement to give extra breathing room and comfort if the dog grows or gains weight. There are a bunch of companies that make fashionable Bulldog specific products. Check out Etsy and Facebook! Conclusion Selecting the right type of harness for your dog is crucial for their comfort, safety, and your peace of mind. As Frenchie owners, you can now feel confident during your shopping experience! FAQs How do I know the right size of the harness for my dog? Can a harness stop my dog from pulling? Training is the most effective way to stop pulling. Can my new french bulldog puppy wear a harness? Yes, but ensure it is the correct size and is adjusted properly to not impede their growth. Is a harness better than a collar? A harness provides better control and evenly distributes pressure, reducing the risk of injury. However, some well-behaved dogs may be comfortable with a collar. Pet parents often have a hard time picking out a new french bulldog puppy harness and collar for their puppy. Dont forget to subscribe and follow on socials! Advanced technology for secure fit Made from high-quality, durable material Easy to put on and take off Comfortable design does not restrict movement Reflective strips for visibility in low light Comes with a handle for additional control Customizable name plate area 4. It features a unique triangular structure and is made from high-density oxford fabric. The harness is equipped with 2 metal leash rings and a chest attachment clip to prevent your dog from pulling. It also has 3 snap buckles, making it easy to put on and take off. The harness also features 4 easy adjusting straps around the body and reflective material for safety during night walks. Best No Pull Frenchie Harness Robust and adjustable design Made from high-density oxford fabric Features 2 metal leash rings and a chest attachment clip Easy to put on and take off with 3 snap buckles Comes with 4 easy adjusting straps Reflective material for night safety Unique triangular structure for comfort and safety Soft Padded Handle for ease of handling Check Price on Amazon The Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness by Best Pet Supplies is a lightweight, all-weather harness perfect for walks all year round. It is made with a soft, breathable air mesh and features reflective bands for enhanced visibility during early morning and late evening strolls. The harness is designed with three safety features: a hook and loop fastener, buckle, and double D-rings, providing three layers of security for your pet. It is easy to put on and take off, making it perfect for everyday use.

Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Golden Shepherd Highlights Golden Shepherds are mixed breed dogs. The main colors of Golden Shepherds are black, tan, red, cream, and blue. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. They shed quite a bit. The Golden Shepherd not only loves kids, they enjoy the commotion they bring with them. Though, as with all dogs, playtime with kids should always be supervised. Golden Shepherds have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Hiking and other adventurous activities are strongly recommended. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Golden Shepherds as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Golden Shepherds got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Golden Shepherd rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Golden Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever parents, you can expect the Golden Shepherd to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Golden Shepherd Personality Golden Shepherds make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Golden Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Golden Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. Golden Shepherds like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Golden Shepherds are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Golden Shepherd Feeding An ideal Golden Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. As with all dogs, the Golden Shepherd dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Golden Shepherd diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors with their family. Like all dogs, however, Golden Shepherds need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Golden Shepherd Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Golden Shepherds because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Golden Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs. These dogs need 45 — 90 minutes per day of exercise These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future. This said trait may result in an unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years. Note sure the Golden Shepherd is right for you? Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like? These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent which prevent the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are an affectionate and a great companion 2. Guarding Ability Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. Environmental Adjustments With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time particularly if you move around frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches. This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick and doubled; resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to. The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed-breed. A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. If everything checks out, a contract that shows clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into the private dog rescues as some dogs may be transported there. Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes a shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. Here are some products that you might need for this pet. Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins which help to untangle and shed loose fur. This mixed breed features a double-coat that requires constant brushing making this item a must-have for all dog owners. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs. Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas. This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area for better vision , around the anus for hygiene , and the chin for easy eating. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older. This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of: Allergies Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Joint Dysplasia In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Bloating Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans, however, in dogs it is deadly. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home. Learning some first aids for this breed of dogs can also help. Awareness over these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with German Shepherd breed will result to their proper care. Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs. Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. It is also the building block of their muscles. Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being and too little creates skin problems. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since it varies depending on their age and body size. Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? 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.

Pugs require attention, but should also have a space of their own in which they feel comfortable when you are not home or are otherwise occupied. Provide your pug with an area of its own including a bed and blankets, some toys, and easy access to food and fresh water. This way, even if you cannot pay attention to your pug for a moment, they do not feel alone. Remember that pugs are sensitive to very hot temperatures and rapid temperature changes. Avoid setting up their space in areas with continued direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. Pugs are prone to nervousness and anxiety. You can help them calm down by being consistent in your daily routine. This means scheduling feeding times, walks, play times, and quiet times as close to the same time every day as possible. Because of this, it is important to schedule a vet check as soon as you bring your new pug home. It is important for your pug to be seen by a veterinarian regularly so that it can get preventative veterinary care. A bi-annual check up will ensure that your dog stays up to date on immunizations, preventative medications, and that any emerging health problems can be dealt with quickly. Younger pugs may need to see the vet more often until they are spayed or neutered and have completed their first course of shots. Your vet will help you work out a preventative care schedule for things like annual shots, heartworm treatments, parasite elimination, vaccinations, microchipping, and teeth cleanings, all of which are important parts of keeping your pug healthy. This is especially important if you have children in the house. Teach your children how to recognize when your dog is anxious or fearful, so that they know when to back off. They will want to be with you. Have a crate or bed next to your bed for at least the first few weeks while you get them into a Puppy night-time routine. Here is how to get a puppy to sleep through the night. Alone Training Teaching your Pug puppy that they can be totally fine being left alone can be done with stuffed chew toys, time and patience. Remember to do it slowly to avoid any stress! Toilet Training Training Practically every website you read may tell you that Toilet training your Pug puppy can be a challenge. As with alone training, start sooner rather than later. Of course, if they run into any birds, butterflies and hear planes flying over, it will be great for them to get acquainted already. Have fun gathering surfaces with different textures for them to explore, like synthetic grass, tiles, and soil. Use treats! Remember to use lots of treats and praise when training. They love making your tail wag! Repeat their name to them a lot in the first week, so it really starts to click. Recall — How to teach your Pug puppy to come back when called — This is important for safety. Pugs generally stay close, but they can be very friendly and want to run up to people and other dogs for a bit of a cuddle, so a good recall will always help. But they can enjoy fetch games on a smaller scale, get on the floor and interact and play with your Pug puppy to learn what they enjoy. This will help to avoid resource guarding. Husbandry Tasks Pugs love affection but should be handled with care. Be mindful to not treat them like toys. Not going to blame children to think they are toys though — the resemblance is uncanny. To do this we want to teach them that hands will do nice things to them so use plenty of treats when handling your puppy. Week 2 — Training your Pug puppy Week 2 already! But, owning a Pug does come with some challenges. Since Pugs are prone to carrying excess weight, this brings in the care elements of both eating a healthy diet and following an appropriate exercise schedule; though this can be tricky, since Pugs must be exercised with care in regard to both duration and intensity. Pugs have thick coats of fur with heavy shedding, lots of wrinkles that need to stay clean, and are generally prone to skin sensitivities. This all requires proper grooming and upkeep. Aside from this, is the general care that applies to every dog. While many owners do this as part of the excitement and preparation of bringing a new pup into the household, this is something that should be done on a regular basis throughout your Pug's life. This can lead to accidentally swallowing things, toxic poisoning, or choking. Proofing the house involves removing small items from the floor, placing cords out of reach or wrapping them in cord protectors, finding new places for shoes and other objects that may be chewed, and placing child-proof locks on any lower cabinets that a Pug may be able to access. The Pug is prone to skin yeast infections, eye issues, and is a heavy shedder, so this a breed that requires lots of grooming. It is best to stick to a schedule in regard to these care tasks. Baths - Bathe you Pug once every 3 weeks, even if your puppy or dog does not appear to be dirty. This will help prevent bad odors , keep skin properly moisturized, and loosen dead hairs from the coat. Young pups can be given a bath in the kitchen sink and older adults can be placed in the bathtub. Because the Pug has sensitive skin, use a shampoo that has a pH between 6. A terrific shampoo to use on Pugs is Earthbath Shampoo which has plant-based cleansers and no additives. The Oatmeal and Aloe formula is ideal for just about Pug since it works to keep skin in great shape. Don't forget about a wash-out conditioner. Hair cuticles open during the shampooing process and a conditioner smooths them down. Eye maintenance - Pug's eyes are large and slightly bulging which means they are prone to picking up debris that can irritate the eyes or scratch the cornea. Small food particles are a top culprit. Keep the eye area clean by wiping it at least once a day and as often as after each meal. For this, you can use the same type of wipe that you have for your Pug's wrinkles see next tip. Wrinkle maintenance - Pugs have lots of deep wrinkles on their head and face making these areas prone to skin infection, so attention must be given to keep these folds clean and dry. Wipe the wrinkles at least once a day, and up to 3 times a day by opening each fold and wiping it with a grooming wipe. If you are looking for a good grooming wipe, Earthbath All-Natural Grooming Wipes are excellent for cleaning wrinkles, wiping the eye area, and to spot-clean a Pug in between baths. Brushing - Pugs are heavy shedders, a lot of the dead hairs will stay lodged in the coat and some will fall to the floor. So, even if you do not notice much shedding, it's important to brush your Pug on a regular basis. Young puppies can be brushed once a week, but adult Pugs should be brushed at least every other day and as often as once per day. Use a tool that will reach down through this breed's thick coat and pull out all the loose and dead fur. While you may be envisioning using a brush, a grooming glove like the Delomo Pet Grooming Glove works very well on a Pug's dense coat. This has over grooming tips that latch onto dead hairs and debris. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed that is very prone to breathing issues. Using a collar when on leash, which places pressure on the trachea, is near guaranteed to exacerbate this. So, part of caring for a Pug involves using accessories that do not impede breathing. For this reason, a harness should be used any time a Pug is on a leash. Harnesses displace tension over the shoulders, back, and chest, leaving the neck free. This is a step-in design just the front legs are placed through the holes, so nothing has to slip over the head , there is an easy-close adjustable Velcro flap on the back, and it is made with air-mesh to keep a Pug cool and comfortable. What you choose to feed your Pug will have both short and long-term consequences, affecting everything from weight maintenance to allergies to intestinal health. Pugs do best with a dry kibble as opposed to a wet canned food; a dry formula tends to keep stools firm and is better for the teeth. Puppies should be fed 3 times a day and this can transition over to twice per day at the 9-month mark. Several dry snacks should be given in between meals and moist treats can be given to reward good behavior such as house training and obeying commands. This breed generally has a very hearty appetite and this, along with their intolerance for extended exercise, makes it easy to gain excess weight. Pugs also tend to have sensitive stomachs and are prone to skin reactions from food additives. Therefore, aim to provide all-natural foods that have no chemical preservatives, no artificial flavoring or dyes, and no by-products, high grain counts, generic meats or oils, corn, soy, or other cheap fillers. If you are not sure what rating your Pug's current dog food has, a good place to check this is Dog Food Advisor which rates the quality of hundreds of brands. And, if you are looking for a good kibble, one recommended brand is Wellness Complete for Small Breeds. For snacks and training treats, Wellness offers several good choices in their line, and if you have an adult Pug and you are working on helping them keep off excess pounds, a good low-calorie option is Fruitables Skinny Minis Dog Treats. Pugs need to drink 1. The tap water in many regions of the US, the UK, Canada and other countries is either outright unsafe or improperly monitored. A number of studies have found drugs in tap water including contraceptive medications, Prozac, Naproxen, Ibuprofen and even illegal drugs; these contain fine particles that are not caught by municipal filtration systems. Other toxins include Chromium-6 a known carcinogen , fluoride which is toxic to canines , chlorite which can cause central nervous problems and HCB which can cause can cause liver disease and skin lesions. And, heavy metals are also an issue. So, for this care tip you can offer bottled spring water, a filtering device that connects your kitchen tap, or a more portable device like the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher. Pugs are prone to bloat, a dangerous and potentially fatal twisting of the stomach. Raised bowls are a contributing factor, as well as eating or drinking too fast or too close to a bout of exercise. For this reason, place food and water in floor-level bowls. If your Pug tends to gulp down his food or water quickly, use a slow-feeder bowl. After eating a meal, do not take your Pug out for exercise for at least one hour. Another element to consider is that stainless-steel bowls are recommended since plastic bowls can cause allergic reactions to either the material itself or to dyes and tend to more easily harbor bacteria, fits the requirements of both height and material. When saliva and tiny food particles mix into water, this creates a slimy film in the dish, which can lead to a dog avoiding it. With food bowls, caked on food can lead to a buildup of bacteria and even mold. Make it a habit to wash both of your Pug's dishes with hot water and soap every day. Since dogs can be very protective of their bowls, a good time to do this is in the evening, after dinner or once your Pug has gone to sleep. Despite their reputation for being lazy, Pugs can have a good amount of energy. And, you'll want to meet this by keeping your Pug moving along, for several reasons: Exercise plays an important role in a Pug's physical health; it's good for the heart and lungs, regulates metabolism, helps maintain proper muscle composition, boosts the immune system, and can keep certain diseases at bay including canine diabetes and even some forms of cancer. Exercise also plays a vital role in a dog's mental health; it allows a dog to release any restlessness that bottles up and allows for desensitization and socialization to all outside elements. At the same time, too much exertion in either duration or intensity can lead to breathing difficulties or overheating for this brachycephalic breed. So, the goal for this care element is to exercise your Pug on a regular basis while keeping in mind your dog's limitations. Pugs do best with at least two walks per day. Each session should last a minimum of 20 minutes, but can extend to 45 minutes or even longer if your Pug is game. Breaks should be taken at the halfway mark of a short walk, every 15 to 20 minutes for a longer walk, or any time that a Pug is breathing noticeably heavier than normal. Bring your Pug into the shade and offer fresh water, ensuring that breathing is back to normal before starting up again. Light to moderate cardio sessions can also be added in, with a rousing game of fetch being the easiest to play and one that most dogs love. Pugs are sensitive to seasonal changes in temperature and some care elements will need to be adjusted. Summer - Hot humid weather makes summertime care a bit tricky with Pugs. Breathing issues are more pronounced and it's more difficult to keep a Pug active. It can help to take your little guy or gal for walks in the early morning and then later in the evening, avoiding the hottest parts of the day. You can help your Pug stay cool by offering lots of water and refreshing treats like frozen blueberries or raspberries. Stay aware of hot walking surfaces which can cause burns to a dog's paws. Take routes in the shade when possible and use a paw wax to offer a layer of protection. Another helpful care tip is to give your Pug a cooling mat to rest on. The Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Pet Pad works by drawing excess heat away from the body, is self-activating you don't have to plug it in , and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Winter - Plunging temperatures and slippery weather conditions can make wintertime care a bit challenging as well. Fortunately, Pugs have thick coats which help them stay warm in the winter, but never-the-less, many don't like to go out when it's snowy and cold. And, even with dense fur, dogs that are outside for too long, particularly when it's below freezing, are vulnerable to developing hypothermia. So, continue to take your Pug out for their regular exercise sessions, but limit this on days with heavy winter precipitation or below-freezing temperatures. Another aspect to keep in mind is that arid winter air can lead to issues with dry skin. Be sure you are using a hydrating shampoo see care tip 2: Baths and apply a paw wax every two weeks to offer better traction and keep the paw pads in good shape. The Pug is prone to certain issues related to the joints, bones, and ligaments including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. In addition to this, all dogs age 8-years and up suffer from some level of osteoarthritis and this is more common with breeds that have the aforementioned issues. For this reason, supplying your Pug with a quality bed to rest and sleep on that provides good cushioning and proper support for the body is vital. This should be an appropriately sized orthopedic memory foam bed with at least a 2-inch base. Either a flat mattress or a bolster bed will work and sometimes dogs do have a preference. Because Pugs tend to snore and may have other sleep-related breathing issues, like sleep apnea, being able to place their head on a bolstered cushion which helps extend the neck can be helpful. This also has a non-slip backing and the cover is machine-washable. There are lots of effective toys that can help your Pug in a number of ways and it's always better to have just a few that do their job than a ton that are ignored. Teething puppies need teething toys that help them scratch their itchy gums and soothe the discomfort of erupting teeth. Pugs of all ages that enjoy chewing should be given durable chew toys that they find pleasant to use, as opposed to looking to non-toy items in the house. Pugs that are home alone and suffer from separation anxiety can be helped with interactive toys that respond to them and a companion toy that helps ease feelings of isolation. Toys breeds and brachycephalic breeds are both prone to tooth decay, so that means that if you have a Pug you need to pay particular attention to keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy. A build up of plaque, which eats away at tooth enamel and can travel under the gum line, can lead to terribly painful infections, tooth loss and more. Taking care of your Pug's teeth includes brushing the teeth with a quality canine toothbrush and effective canine toothpaste, or using a spray if your Pug is intolerant to brushings, and offering daily dental treats like GREENIES Dental Chews. Note that this applies to puppies as well, since decay on milk teeth can affect adult teeth that are waiting to emerge. Pugs should have their teeth examined by the veterinarian at least once a year during their wellness checks. An x-ray may be taken to look for any decay and if there is plaque or tartar present, this may require a 'full dental' which involves scraping the teeth clean. This is done with a dog under light sedation. Trauma is one of the leading causes of death for all puppies, the Pug breed included, and is a top concern for Pugs of all ages. Many instances of severe injury and death can be prevented by following some simple care tips: If your Pug has trouble navigating stairs most applicable to puppies and seniors , block these off with a gate. When outside, never allow your Pug to be off leash. Never allow your Pug to be in the yard unsupervised. If you have a puppy, do not allow anyone to handle him unless they have been shown proper handling techniques, which includes using both hands, one under the rump and one supporting the chest. Have young children stay on floor level to play with your Pug. Always be aware of where you are walking, especially at night, so that your puppy or dog is not accidentally stepped on or tripped over. If your Pug will be a passenger in your car, use a safe canine car seat or a canine belt restraint. These yearly for dogs age 1 and up or twice-per-year typically starting at age 8 visits are crucial for good health, prevention, and the best possible prognosis, should any issues be detected. The vet will perform a full physical examination to check for issues seen with canines in general and health issues specific to the Pug breed. Vitals will be taken temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate and your Pug will be weighed. The head will be checked eyes, ears, nose, mouth. The coat and the skin will be examined to look for any signs of concern. Proper posture will be assessed, knees and hips will be examined, and reflexes will be checked. A stool sample will be tested for possible parasites and a blood test will be run to evaluate overall health, flag any infections, and check organ function and electrolyte and protein levels. Senior dogs may have more advanced testing, including x-rays. During the visit, this is your opportunity to ask any questions; a good owner is an involved owner. The American Humane Association estimates over 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the US every year. Here are some tips to prevent this: If your Pug tends to run off, consider spaying or neutering. Intact dogs can have strong urges to take off, looking for a mate. If your Pug darts for the door as soon as its open, have a rule that everyone knocks before entering to allow enough time for someone to hold onto the dog. Consider having your Pug micro-chipped; dogs with chips are returned to owners at a much higher rate than those without. Have current photos of your Pug. If your dog does become lost, create 'lost dog' posters and bring these to all animal services and shelters within a mile area dogs are sometime brought to local shelters but send further away if there is over-crowding. Did you find these care tips to be helpful? This is available in both soft-cover paperback and ebook. Pug Paw Care - The most common issues seen and helpful tips to keep the paws in excellent shape. When a Pug is Super Itchy - Top reasons that cause both acute and chronic itchiness and how to offer fast relief. Housebreaking a Pug - Pugs typically aim to please, but house training can still be a bit challenging. See exact guidelines for fast success. Tips to Keep a Pug Busy and Occupied - Does your Pug stay home alone or seem lost unless you interact with him or her? See super-helpful advice to keep your Pug entertained and happy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Caring for your Pug Pugs can be highly entertaining dogs due to their big personalities and clownish nature. They generally do well in family environments where they have lots of company all of the time as they love to spend time with everybody. Pugs and barking As with any dog, your Pug is likely to make noise in one form or another. How much your dog barks will be down to them as an individual. Training and socialisation When it comes to training Pugs, although they are a clever breed they can also be very strong willed. Training needs to be ongoing and firm but fair. You can start positive, reward-based training from day one, whether you get your Pug old or young. Exercise Pugs can be prone to gaining weight that can make breathing problems worse, so it is important to keep them active and avoid any weight gain. Your Pug will need up to an hour of exercise a day. This should include shorter walks, with extra playtime and lots of brain-stimulating activities. Several shorter walks throughout the day can help to stop them from becoming too tired or overheated, which is a great way to keep them active throughout the day. Keep a close eye on your Pug as they can tire easily due to their difficulties getting enough oxygen. As soon as you start to notice them struggling to breathe, stop and make sure they get enough of a rest. You will also need to avoid exercising them in the heat as this can cause even more problems since they can be at higher risk of heatstroke. Grooming Even though their coats are short, Pugs can still shed loads. Luckily, they tend to love being groomed as it means a lot of attention all on them. Pay close attention to the folds in their skin, as these are the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections if left damp. You can teach your Pug from an early age to love tooth brushing and nail clipping so you can keep those pearly whites and paws in great condition. Pugs and children Pugs adore company and really love people of all ages. They often get on well with children, especially if the Pug loves to play. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Always supervise children and vulnerable people with your Pug and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. Pugs and other pets Pugs are known for getting along well with other pets and dogs. Introductions still need to be done carefully, though, just in case. Good, kind training will also help them become well-rounded dogs that keep calm in new situations. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards for breeding. See our advice on what you need to know about flat faced pets and how to choose a healthier pedigree pet. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, some centres will vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will have already neutered the dogs they rehome where appropriate. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or if your dog outgrows them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catching any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. A group of Pugs is called a grumble! Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to Ancient China where they were bred for Emperors. Pugs were bred to be companions, which is why they love people so much. Getting a Pug Do plenty of research before you get a Pug. Although they are loveable and friendly, they are sadly likely to get a lot of health issues more so than many other breeds. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Pug. Breed-specific rescues specialising in Pugs are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any existing health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will have been well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if a Pug is the right pet for you? Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. He is goofy, silly, and fun. Pugs were originally bred to be lap dogs and this is evident in the affection that they show to their owners. Nothing makes a Pug happier than being a member of the family. With their large heads, big, sparkling eyes, and wrinkled faces, Pugs are able to achieve a wide variety of human-like expressions- happiness, surprise, and curiosity. So whether you have a Pug already or are wanting to adopt one, here are all the facts and tips for creating a lasting bond between you and your pup. Meet The Pug Height: inches tall at the shoulder Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years Fur type: Pugs have a double coat of short, smooth hair. But they do shed a lot, because of this they are not hypoallergenic. Color: Typically fawn or black. But coats can have different tints like apricot or silver. Personality Pugs are happy, affectionate, loyal, charming, playful, and mischievous. They can be trained to be social from a young age. They are even tempered and gentle. Many people would say that Pugs are a lot of dog in a little space. Pugs tend to be sensitive to the moods of their owners and are eager to please them. Energy Level Pugs are a small, quiet breed, and are for the most part inactive while indoors. They are great for apartment dwellers. While they are docile and peaceful dogs, they do require a daily walk or some playtime to get their wiggles out. Good With Children Because they are bigger and sturdier than most other toy breeds, Pugs are an ideal pet for children. They can withstand some rough play and love to be around people. They are sweet and loving by nature and will protect your children as well as entertain them with their goofy and charming antics. However, if your children are looking for more of an active breed that they can play fetch with or take for long walks, a Pug would not be the best choice for your family. Good With Other Dogs If trained from a young age, Pugs can learn to be social with other animals and can even be trusted with other animals like cats and rabbits. Shedding Pugs have a short, double coat, and shed profusely. We recommend that if you live with a pug, to invest in a vacuum cleaner! Grooming Needs Regular brushing and monthly baths will help keep your Pugs coat in great condition and shedding to a minimum. A rubber curry brush will help remove and catch the shedding hair. Pugs do not naturally wear down their nails, so regular nail-trimmings are necessary. Teach your Pug to tolerate teeth cleaning. This will help prevent him from getting gingivitis. It may seem like a daunting challenge, but the more frequently you brush your Pugs teeth, the more acclimated to it they will become. One of the best things that you can do for your pug to ensure a long healthy life is to regularly clean out his face folds. The wrinkly folds on his face, although adorable, are a hot breeding spot for infection and bacteria. It is very important that after baths you dry out the folds and in-between baths you clean them out. You can use a dry cotton ball to get the junk out or a wet wipe, whichever you have handy. They do have a love for food, so using treats to your advantage might help your little guy learn quicker. Start training your puppy from the minute you bring him home, the earlier you start training, the faster he will pick it up and learn to behave well. How To Feed My Pug If you allow your pug to eat as much as he would like to, you will end up a roly-poly puppy. Pugs will eat everything and anything that you give them, so be sure to measure out their food and feed them small meals at regularly scheduled times. Pugs are usually allergic to foods like corn, soy, and wheat. Try feeding them raw food. Eating a raw, natural diet will ensure the best health of your Pug. Your Pug will love eating raw food! A high-quality diet of Raw food will ensure the best health condition for your pup. Because Pugs are prone to obesity, watch their calorie intake and weight. If you chose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Give table scraps sparingly and try to avoid giving your furry friend cooked bones or foods that are high in fat. Feeding Your Puppy Your cute little Pug should start eating a scheduled diet around 8 weeks. He should eat 4 times a day. This schedule should be followed until your furry friend reaches 3 months of age. At this time you Pug can start eating 3 times a day instead of 4. Feeding Your Adult Once your Pug reaches 1 year, he will be ready to start eating adult food. At this time you may also want to decrease his eating from 3 times a day to twice daily. This will be your best option because Pugs tend to gain weight very easily. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If you Pug happens to have a square shape, he is getting too much food. Health Concerns For Pugs To ensure you are getting a healthy Pug never buy one from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Heat stroke: Pugs suffer from heat stroke if they are outside for too long. When outside with your pug, watch for signs of overheating. They are definitely house dogs and should not be kept outside Breathing: Because of their short snout, pugs are prone to wheezing, snorting, and snoring loudly. Obesity: Be aware of how much you are giving your Pug. If your Pug is developing a square shape, he is eating too much. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This disease is not treatable nor is it testable. Most vets cannot diagnose it until after the death of the dog. It is an inflammation of the brain and meninges. It usually occurs between 6 and 7 months of age and is fatal. Will my pug bite? Pugs are strong-willed but rarely aggressive. They will only bite in moments where they feel threatened or the need to protect. When will my pug stop growing? Some Pugs will actually stop growing then, others will put on a few more pounds before they reach a year. At 1 year your pug puppy will be considered an adult, and by this time their full height is reached. They will still keep filling out in width in the chest area and a little more muscle until about 18 months. If you notice your pug gaining weight in other areas or later than 18 months he may be gaining unnecessary weight and should be checked out by the veterinarian. Can pug eyes pop out? Since Pugs have such beautiful bulgy eyes, they can accidentally go through something call proptosis, which is the popping out of the eyes. You might think this to be a very uncommon, scary thing, but in reality, it is more normal than you think. It is most common among breeds with short snouts and shallow eye sockets, like pugs. It can be a result of a trauma or it can happen completely all of a sudden. Immediately call your vet and she will give you further instruction on how to help your dog. Can pigs swim? Like most dogs, Pugs have a natural ability to swim. Does that mean that he will like the water? Not always. Make sure you introduce your pug to the water in a fun, positive way so that he will have a great first experience. This first time will really make it or break it in terms of him enjoy or disliking the pool. The barrel shape of your Pug does make it harder for him to swim than other breeds and he may get tired very quickly, but as long as you are there to supervise and help him if he starts to panic, he should be fine to swim. When will my pug go in heat? Your female pug could start her first heat as early as 4 months or as late as 15 months. The most typical time is between 4 and 6 months of age. The average heat cycle will last from 2 to 3 weeks and your pug will enter heat every 5 to 8 months. How much do pugs cost? It all depends on pedigree, the area of the country, and health tests that the breeder has done on the parents. Many people would think that the more expensive the pug, the better the quality of life it will have. While that may be a good guess, price does not always indicate how your pug will live. Buying a puppy at weeks is always a guessing game. Are pug puppies hyper? Pug puppies are known to be more energetic than their older parents. This energy usually lasts until about 1 year of age. At this time they tend to slow down and really embrace their lazy personality. Why does my pug howl? Pugs are very loyal dogs. They attach themselves to their humans and love them with all they are. They do not like to be left alone. Some Pugs have been known to howl when their humans leave. Every dog is different though, you might get a pug that howls in conversation or one that never makes any noise. Why do pug tails curl? Kind of like our tailbones. It consists of bone and cartilage. This is an anomaly in how the vertebra develops. Specifically, the bones and the tail form a twisting wedge shape. The twisting is what causes the tail to curl. So if you are looking for a dog with a ton of personality, one that will make you laugh as well as love you until his dying days, look no further. Your Pug will be your constant companion. He will love you as no has ever loved you before. Give him a lot of attention and love and you will have a forever best friend. About Jenna Barrington Hi! My name is Jenna and I am a proud pet parent of a gorgeous Golden Retriever. I grew up surrounded by animals and developed a love for anything on four legs! I spent a year working as a night puppy nurse for Doberman Pinchers, delivering puppies and taking care of all the health needs of the parents. I work now as a professional copywriter and researcher and am happy to be able to share my love for dogs by contributing to TruDog. Small Pets Taking Care of a Pug Puppy Pugs are some of the most soulful looking animals on the planet, and are very expressive. You can easily recognize a pug as these small breed dogs have a wrinkly face and a curled tail. They first came to international prominence when mobile operator Vodafone used them to endorse their brand —the ad with the pug, named Hutch in the ad, was a stupendous success with the pug soon becoming a household name. But there are certain things that you must be aware of if you also want to adopt this cute pet. Unlike adult pugs, small pug dogs are most likely to suffer from a number of health issues ranging from obesity, overheating and pharyngeal reflex. So, you need to be the doubly careful when dealing with these vulnerable puppies. If you are worried, you can take heart from the fact that taking care of the pups is uncomplicated and easy as they have very few demands. Before bringing home the pug puppy Ensure that you have all the grooming items in place starting from brush, cotton swabs, and petroleum jelly to puppy shampoo and dog treats. Here are some guidelines that you can refer to when taking care of the pug puppy: Training the puppy to follow your commands: There is no substitute for a well-trained dog, so train the puppy from day one. The first six months are the most crucial as during this period, he will learn the most which will mold him. Every time he responds correctly to your commands, like sit, run, jump, and come, give him some treats and words of encouragement. But there is one caveat: keep the sessions short as being such a young dog, his power of concentration is limited. To start with, minute sessions would be ok. Also, when taking him for a walk, better use a harness which will provide protection to his windpipe. Potty training: This is a very important stage of puppy training. When he is young, he has very little control over his bladder, so you need to take him out for potty breaks more frequently than you would do to an adult. He may demand potty breaks every hours at this stage, but as he grows older and his control over the bladder imp roves, the frequency will gradually become normal. However, under no circumstances, you should overlook his tendency to soil corners of the home thinking that it is an isolated incident, because it is not. Deal with such incidents with a firm no, or else he will become a big nuisance and a lazy dog. Grooming routine: The pug has a double coat which keeps shedding continuously, so daily grooming is essential. Brush the pug at least twice every week and vacuum him extensively. In what is unusual, pug dogs are very fond of water, unlike other dogs. You can easily find soaps and other bath related items that are designed for puppies in the local outlet, use them. Try oatmeal based shampoos which not only keeps his skin soft, but protects his sensitive skin. Pugs have narrow ear canals, so chances of getting an ear infection if water gets into its ear are higher in pugs. What you can do is use soft tissues or a cotton ball to wipe the ear clean and dry. If your pug is shaking his head violently, then it may indicate an ear infection —and if there is an infection, get in touch with the vet immediately. Cleaning of Pug Wrinkles Pug wrinkles are called folds, which serve as a great place to accumulate all sorts of unwanted stuff like water, mucous, dirt, tear, food etc. Cleaning of pug wrinkles is an easy task and getting the Pug used to it at an early age is a good idea. Some owners use an Ear Bud or Q-Tip for this purpose, but we would not recommend this as the slightest struggle from your Pug could cause an eye injury. Instead, you can use baby wipes or medicated wipes. You can fill a cup with lukewarm water and dip the baby wipes or cotton swab in it. After that, run the moist tip of baby wipes through the wrinkles so that all dirt and grime particle come out. At the end, you should use a cotton swab to smear petroleum jelly inside the wrinkles to keep the internal skin protected. Tackling overheating issues: Pugs are adversely affected by warm conditions and may get dehydrated. So, ensure that the living condition of the pup is cool- special care needs to be taken during the summers when the pugs feel great discomfort. Regularly check the room temperature where the pug is kept, and if you feel that the room is too hot, you have to either move it to a cool room or else you have to provide him with lots of water. In extreme conditions, there are cold compresses that you can put on his belly till it cools down. Exercise: Pugs are actually overweight for their size, so unless they exercise a lot heath issues are a given. Take him for a daily walk and play different games with it which will help it maintain its health. Be careful not to take him out on a bright sunny day, as it can dehydrate him. Feeding the puppy: There are special diets that are designed for pugs. But you may be unsure which brand to select for your puppy as there are so many different brands in the market. The best thing to do in such a situation is to take the advice of a vet. Pugs would eat almost anything and in the process put on a lot of weight. So, make it a point not to overfeed it. Also, if your dog prefers a particular food and you want to wean it away from that food, do it gradually. Normally, puppies in the age group 3 to 6 months should be fed at least three times a day. And from 6 months to 1 year, change it to two times. To make the feeding process easier for the pet, try using bowls that has an elevated shape off the ground. For more guidance, please refer to this article : Puppy feeding tips for new dog owners Dealing with obesity: Overeating will not only make the pug overweight, but may pave the way for ailments like leg pain, eye disorders, and lung problems. About Rahul From Delhi, Rahul is an animal lover at heart. He is a writer and most of his writing revolves around making people aware of animal issues like health, training and grooming.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. My name is Valerie. I'm the owner and breeder of Lavender Fields Australian Labradoodles. Along side of me is my husband, Dave and our two daughters, Paisley 9 and Paige 7 and of course our pups. We are located in beautiful Spring Lake, Michigan. We raise all our pups right in our home, with love and lots of cuddles. Our pups are cherished family members, they live in our home, sleep in our rooms, and accompany us just about everywhere we go. They get to play together in the back yard, swim in the lake, join us on family road trips and vacations, they are true family members. Our goal is to provide families with a happy and healthy puppy. All our puppies come from fully health tested parents who pass extensive heath and genetic testing to ensure we are maintaining excellent genetic lines and the health standards of this great breed. We are focused on making sure our puppies begin with Puppy Culture Enrichment Program and are well-socialized, by spending time with our family, around lots of children, other animals and exposing them to the many sights and sounds of the world. We believe this exposure gives your puppy a great start to becoming a well rounded family companion. We are dedicated to breeding happy, healthy, Australian Labradoodles, with non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly coats. Low maintenance but does shed at varying degrees. Not recommended for families with allergies. Fleece Coat Most Desirable. Curl varies. Typically non-shedding and good for people with allergies. Minimal to moderate grooming. Longer coats are kept, the higher the maintenance. Mostly non shedding and allergy friendly. More grooming, especially when coat is longer. At the Labradoodle Corral, we mostly produce a fleece coat. Wool coats are saved for the super sensitive allergy family. But a fleece coat is very soft, giving you that teddy bear feel, great look and the least maintenance. Red can fade somewhat with age. Red is a rare color and fairly hard to find. It can come in varying shades and may fade as the dog grows older. Blue also belongs to the Rare Color Group. Blue dogs are born Black but will have Blue skin and undertonings at a young age. Silver Colored Australian Labradoodles Born Black but will have more of a grey skin and will develop individual silver fibers at a young age. Silver dogs can take up to 3 years to color out and become a beautiful smoky grey through to a light iridescent platinum and varying shades in between at adulthood. Uneven layering of color in the silver is normal. Chocolate Colored Australian Labradoodles Dark and rich, born almost Black, they maintain a dark chocolate throughout their lifetime. Color should be even. Chocolate belongs to the Rare Color Group. When given plenty of time in the sunshine, they develop stunning highlights. Lavender dogs are born Chocolate and can be difficult to distinguish at a young age. True Lavender belongs to the Rare Color Group. Paling usually starts from an early age often as early as 6 weeks. As adults they can be mistaken for dark smoky Cream from a distance. Parchment belongs to the Rare Color Group. Have a look at our Labradoodles for sale in the Midwest to find your new friend. For more information regarding coat types of puppies, contact the Wisconsin Australian Labradoodle breeders at Labradoodle Corral today. Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? This color can do some interesting things! It can fade into at least three distinct, official Labradoodle colors! Go figure!! I have had one of my chocolate girls turn completely Lavender on her body but not the head, then within a year, go completely back to dark chocolate. So, like a good Boy Scout, when you purchase a chocolate Labradoodle, be prepared for anything! All are lovely, but they are almost impossible to predict with any significant degree of accuracy. Once again, be prepared for anything! Chocolate Colors Now we get to the fun part; the color combinations! This is where things get interesting. Partis can come in any color, with either color nose. Some are mostly white, while some have lots of color and less white. The ones that are mostly white are called "Extreme" Partis. The variations are endless and unique, like a snowflake. The colors, such as chocolate, on a parti can change in the same ways that they would on a solid dog. Often confused with "Parti" is a dog with heavy white mismarks or a Tuxedo. White mismarks can be very small or very heavy, or anywhere in-between. The puppy is born either Black or Chocolate and immediately begins to lose the dark color, revealing anything from a cream to a red underneath! The tips of the fur may retain their dark cast, but the dog will present as somewhere on the cream-red spectrum. I have included her picture below showing her in the middle of the changing process. The genetics of color are absolutely fascinating!

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. She comes to everything ready to party with her beloved people and dog friends. She is athletic and energetic, with a great cuddly side to her too. Conchis will need a secure yard and someone conscious of entering and exiting gates. While she does not try to get out, if she does she can be difficult to catch in the great open. This may or may not improve based on knowing her home and her people. We love this girl and she has done fine with us, and comes to us, but her recall in large areas needs more work. We have worked on it with great success but we would never suggest she be an off lead out of the yard dog. She had done well with us with meeting and playing with other dogs, and all the people she has met with us. She is simply a fun girl who loves people and play! Most of our dogs require a fenced yard. We seek fully fenced yards with a physical, visible fence. A sturdy, high quality crate is also required due to safety concerns, no wire or soft crates will be accepted. Impact, Ruffland, 4 point contact locking door Skyline, Zinger Winger, etc type crate. We will be considering homes in W. Wa and possibly Oregon, no other out of state adoptions at this time. No other out of state adoptions at this time. Once the application is received it will be reviewed by that animals caseworker. If your application is seen as a good fit to the pet you are applying for we will request photos of your fenced yard as well as your current crate or the crate you plan on purchasing. Once received we will schedule a phone interview with you to discuss the pet and the next steps, should a match be seen. ORG Mandatory fenced yard. No apartments. Some Condos and homes with a private use fenced yard maybe considered. No children. Adoption donation for this companion animal is Donations cover some of the care costs for R. Like housing, supportive care, medical needs and food. All R. Most are micro chipped with adopter registration included. For more information and to complete the on line adoption application on R. If you wish to apply to adopt this companion animal go to the on line application at R. Before applying, please, read the following information. Donations support R. Dogs are spayed or neutered prior to adoption, vaccinated for Parvo Distemper and generally are micro chipped. For the safety of children and dogs and limited information on dog the dogs interaction with children- R. All children must be behavior appropriate with animals. Out of state adopters must come to meet the animal in person in Washington if approved for a meet and greet with a R. Thank you.

It has a front and back clip that you can attach to the leash to train your dog. It also comes with four adjustable straps around the neck and chest for perfect fitting, even for large lab puppies. To ensure that your puppy is safe in crowds, the Rabbitgoo harness has an extra handle on the back. However, the handle is a little thin, so if your puppy is a puller, it may break. The entire vest has padding made of breathable, heavy-duty material to promise the comfort of your puppy. The downside here is that it can be tricky to adjust the straps. Pros Available with side buckles to ease the fitting Soft, breathable padding for maximum comfort Comes with an extra handle on the back for better control in crowds Fair price Straps are difficult to adjust Plastic buckles wear off with excess pulling 3. In addition, the Voyager harness has double D-rings to clip onto the leash and keep it secure. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. Aside from the correct size, you should consider other features, like durability, adjustable straps, and convenience to get the best bang for your buck. Yet, the material still should be soft and breathable so that your puppy is comfortable while walking and exercising. Adjustable Straps This is a crucial feature to look for in a harness. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Tru-Fit Harness with Seatbelt from Kurgo Yes, you should prefer a harness as it is better than a collar for your Lab puppy. This is because they are safer and offer much more control. A harness can also reduce strains compared to the collar which can cause tension around the delicate neck of your Lab puppy. The following are some of the biggest advantages of using a harness on your Lab puppy. Injuries Can be Prevented Harness always takes pressure away from the neck of your Labrador puppy. So you can pull the leash without hurting the dog. More importantly, this will help Labs to pull the lead without getting any injuries by themselves. Despite this, you should still teach your dog to not pull on the leash. But with harnesses, there is enhanced space for your dog to grow and it will not put any pressure on the neck of your Lab puppy. Provide Control without Cruelty This is the reverse of the final disadvantage of dog collars. It can be used if you are losing control of your pup. In this situation, you can use sheer force to hold back your Lab without causing undue pain and discomfort. In the case of collar, when you try to stop a fleeing Labrador by applying force, it can cause serious pain. Although Labs may respond quicker when you use collar, it is a very unkind act for pups. When can a Labrador Puppy Climb Stairs? Click here to find out. First thing first, it is important to purchase a proper size harness for your Lab puppy. You should start with a small-sized harness, depending upon the age and size of your puppy. The best way to find out whether the dog harness is too small for your Lab puppy is to put the harness properly on your dog. Start with fairly loose so that your dog can easily slip into the harness. Then, tighten it and check whether the harness fits properly by fitting two fingers between your dog and the harness at any point. Harnesses are a great choice for Lab puppies. However, owners need to choose the one in which their dog remains comfortable. You should start with the small one and move to the bigger sizes depending upon the size of your puppy. A harness should be tight enough so that your dog will stop slipping from it, especially if he suddenly reverses on you. However, if there is still gap after the fitting of two fingers, then the harness is too loose or big for your Labrador puppy. Want to make a good homemade meal for your Labrador Puppy? The Lab puppies can wear a harness when they are 8 weeks old. Owners should make sure that the harness is not too heavy or uncomfortable for their dogs. The following table shows the size of Labrador puppies in comparison to their age so that the owners can choose the best size. The critical difference is the degree of dressing up required. This is a moment of personal reflection: do you have a tough time getting out of the house to take your Labrador for a walk? Minimizing the effort required to take your dog walking will ensure that you actually take him out. If your Labrador pulls on his lead, the pressure can quickly start producing irreversible damage. Can Trouble Dogs Even the most humane collars can bother some Labradors. Most new puppies might have trouble accepting a heavy collar. Starting with a light collar at an early age can offset this disadvantage. Some dog trainers can lead-train dogs with collars by building on a foundation of familiarity set by owners who get their dogs to accept light collars early on. This means both products need to be able to cater to different sizes. Most harnesses can house a range of body sizes. But when it comes to collars, your Labrador might start choking on the collar without you realizing it. Adjustable collars can offset this problem. In my opinion, even if you have compassionately trained your Labrador to accept his collar and even go on long walks with the lead attached to the said collar, what happens when your dog gets over-excited? It is quite literally impossible to hold him in position without choking him. Verdict on Dog Collars Dog collars are great to indicate ownership and protect your Labrador from being assumed and treated as a stray. Apart from that, I see no advantage in collars, especially when walking on a lead. So a nuanced approach would be to use a light collar and use a harness whenever you use a lead so that you can sidestep the dangers of lead walking a puppy with a collar. More importantly, your Labrador can pull the lead without hurting himself. More Room for Error If your Labrador puppy wears a collar, you need to follow his growth closely lest the collar begins choking him. Above all, it is more noticeable when your puppy outgrows his harness compared to when he outgrows his collar. In the worst-case scenario, you get to hold back your Lab with sheer force without hurting him as much. Tugging on a collar when your Labrador is trying his best to get away is heartless. That said, you should note that dogs give in more easily when their collar is tugged compared to holding back a harness. The ease, however, is mutually exclusive with kindness in this instance as a submission comes through the pain with a collar. In other words, a harness is something you would want on your pup only on walks. Most well-trained Labradors can go without a harness for short walks, and the harness is left for lead walks. Your Dog Will Take Time to Get Used to It This is a size-driven disadvantage that seems like a logical tradeoff when compared to the burden it offsets. I believe removing cruelty from the equation is well worth the relatively long waiting period. Starting with a light harness with a young Lab puppy is a perfect way to normalize it. Both collars and harnesses are uncomfortable initially, and in the long run, your dog can get used to both. While some trainers make arguments for collars, they are almost exclusively positioned as okay for larger dogs with stronger necks. This makes a harness your only option when out walking. Should a Labrador Wear a Harness? We have already established that harnesses are gentler than collars on Labradors. So, this may have you wondering, should Labradors wear a harness? A Labrador should wear a harness so that you can control him when he gets over-excited on a walk. A harness also allows your dog to keeps his neck safe when you have him on a tight leash. Doing the same with a collar could cause choking, damage to the trachea, or nerve damage. Harness vs. Collar For a Labrador Puppy Harness Advantages Prevents injuries to the neck Allows a lost dog to be identified from a tag Allows more control Easier to wear for tracking Allows room for growth. Conclusions Do I need to put a harness on my Lab puppy? They demand the best food and the most attentive care. As a result, many people believe that you should use a harness rather than a collar on your lab because of how much they tend to pull. Using a leash and collar can help reduce the amount of pulling, but it can be not easy to maintain a firm grip on the leash while walking. A dog harness is also an option. This is the better option for safety, comfort, and training for your Labrador. A comfortable Labrador harness is an important consideration when shopping for one. A good rule of thumb is that the harness should be snug but not squeezing the wearer. As a result, choosing a durable option is critical. For your dog, the features of a Lab harness are more important than the aesthetics. However, if you want to give your dog a dash of color, you can go with a bright harness. A harness is preferable to a collar for a Lab puppy because it is more secure and gives the owner greater control. The ability to lead and control your dog is essential no matter what kind of dog you already have at home, whether a new Labrador puppy or an older dog who has been following you around the house waiting for a walk. To avoid hurting your Labrador, use a harness that distributes the pressure across his upper body instead of his neck. More importantly, your Labrador will not injure himself while pulling the lead. To keep walking your dog from becoming a chore, you must still teach your dog not to pull on the leash. Control Without Cruelty The final drawback of dog collars has reversed. If all else fails, you can use brute force to restrain your dog without causing him undue harm. When your Labrador attempts to flee, it is cruel to force him to wear a collar. Note that dogs give in more quickly when their collar is tugged than when they hold back a harness. As a collar forces a submission, ease is incompatible with kindness in this instance. What is the proper Harness size for a Labrador Retriever? It would help if you got your dog used to wearing a harness as soon as possible. What is the recommended harness size for my Lab puppy? A harness with adjustable straps is preferable because it will last longer when your dog goes through a growth spurt. On the other hand, others believe that this is a risky move. There used to be a fear among dog owners that their pet would be an easy mark for thieves if they knew his name. Many dogs are also microchipped, which makes proving ownership much easier, but most dogs are supervised while outside. Even if your dog is amiable, having his name on his collar is unlikely to put him at risk. Conclusions Collars do serve a purpose in the lives of Labradors, but it is a means of identification, not as a fashion statement. When lab puppies get excited, they may pull on their leashes excessively. Your Labrador must be trained to wear the harness before you can use it safely — you must do this as soon as possible when he is a puppy so that you can control him more effectively. Post navigation. Front and back Long lines are best attached from the back The back-attachment point is ideal for long lines. Attaching it to the front risks the entangling of the front legs. A front and back harness gives maximum flexibility. Double ended Two leash attachment points Using a back-attachment point lets you use a double-ended leash. A single-ended leash can tighten the harness when only attached to the front. Different harnesses have variable tightness degrees. One with front and back attachment reduces gaping by balancing tension. Clipping the leash attachments at two points sounds too much, but it is best. Optimal control comes from a properly fitted dog harness. Handling large pets become effortless. Material Material quality is the first factor. Nylon, polyester, and breathable hybrid materials are a few options. The harness must not put much pressure on the neck and throat. The pull should be evenly distributed throughout the chest and body. Look for a harness guaranteeing sturdiness and comfort. Strength A 6 month old lab can also drag you in public. Labradors are naturally inclined to swim, play and have high energy. Labs are famous military dogs. Dogs without no-pull training can be challenging to maintain in long walks. A harness with extra padding provides the required strength. Look for safety features, reliable buckles, and quality stitching only. Size Labradors are medium-sized dogs that mature at six months. But they grow after maturity too. A harness with an adjustable strap is handy. A labrador retriever continues to grow for two years. Opt for a flexible harness that can be adjusted. Adjustability Adjustability is a vital consideration for young pups. Adjustable harnesses fit any body type or size. Ensure the clips are adjustable and well-built. A strong and popular breed like a labrador can break cheap clips. Comfort Double padding is a must for both young and old dogs. A soft harness is comfortable and prevents injuries. Some are only made for running and keep your dog in great shape. Safety Safety features like reflective material is a must-have. It increases dog visibility during early morning or night walks. Labrador retrievers who are likely to escape are more secure with such features. Some come with attached handles for more security. It is easier to grab your pet if they take off. Harnesses with seat belt features are also becoming popular. Durability Durability becomes vital if you buy a harness for the lab puppy. Always pick harnesses with a higher durability rating. An extremely durable dog harness will last from puppyhood to adulthood. Go for fully adjustable ones for the best results. Cost Budget is essential but comes second to quality. Buying cheaper products will make you spend again. Though cheap pet products are pocket-friendly, they lack quality. Get a good harness instead of going for cheap ones. Soft vests are best for puppies and older labradors. A front, rear, or dual clip harness is great for adult labs. From dual clip to step-in harnesses, there are several. Labrador Vest Harness These are basic walk harnesses. They are simple, lightweight, and inexpensive and made of mesh, plastic, or nylon. Dog owners with well-behaved dogs on leashes can get these. But the front and back clip harness can be attached at all the points. A double-ended leash is required for the front clip attachment. One point is attached at the front and another at the back. It provides more control over your escape artist. A no-pull dog harness minimizes the pup pulls without hurting them. Tactical Dog Harnesses These are popular for training, trekking, and hunting. Besides labs, it is ideal for other dog breeds, like German Shepherds. Military and service dogs wear tactical harnesses often. Tightening and Control Harness These harnesses are more aggressive than standard ones. They will tighten when your dog pulls. Dog chests can be squeezed on tightening. Experienced trainers and dog handlers use them best. Not sure which chest piece is right for your dog? Our list comprises of the 10 best harnesses for labradors. They are made from sturdy material and have the necessary safety features. Now lets look at all the harnesses one by one. A good labrador harness requires time, effort, and patience to buy. Avoid cheap harnesses that can snap, fall apart, or break. Ensure the chest piece fits well and is not tight. The dog must move with ease wearing the harness. The no-pull harness alone is not enough. Train your labrador retriever for adequate results. Measure the neck and the chest for an accurate fit. Add two inches to the chest measurement in case your lab gains weight. Check the tightness after fastening the clips and buckles. Your two fingers must fit to ensure it is comfortable. If not, then it is too tight. But a harness is comfortable and makes training straightforward. Lab puppies may bite the leash too much initially. However, showing patience will go a long way. Here are a few tips to acclimatize dogs:- Positive reinforcement training is best to accustom your lab. Giving them treats or toys when they follow commands is beneficial. Start slow and small. Place the harness on the floor and let them explore. Let the dog get used to the buckles and leash. You can treat them for being brave and sniffing. Put on the harness if you see progress. Let the dog walk around wearing the harness. Even if it is for a few minutes, treat them. Start with small neighborhood strolls if the dog is confident. Increase the walk durations gradually for smoothness. Irrespective of their style, you need the best harnesses for effective energy management. These athletic dogs are up for everything from trekking to hunting. You need a high-quality harness for your lively pooch. The best harnesses for labradors are:- RabbitGoo is best if you want to control your large lab easily. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart is for labradors having frequent car rides. Eagloo dog harness provides maximum comfort with its breathable material. Each harness offers unique features and benefits. The final call comes down to your requirements. Harnesses are better suited for walking dogs. Collars are more comfortable and hold the ID. Vets suggest using a harness for many dogs with breathing issues. Should a Labrador wear a harness? Labradors are athletic and sturdy. Having a harness makes them easier to manage. Be it walks, hikes, or treks, they are secured. What size harness for lab puppy is best? You will need at least a 9-inch long collar for a lab puppy. Most labrador retrievers fit into the large harness category. For accuracy, take labrador measurements. How do I stop my Labrador from pulling on the leash? Starting leash training with a harness early is suggested. Teach them self-control and practice attention. Treat them when the position is correct. Do not let pulling reinforce. Should I use a collar or harness for my Lab? Dog Harnesses are considered humane for pets. They give more control than collars. Different harness types also make it easier to choose for your lab pup. What size harness for 8 week lab puppy? The size range for a small harness for an 8-week-old Labrador puppy is: Chest: inches.

homemade german shepherd puppy food - We get asked which size collar would be best for a particular dog breed or types. So here we have compiled a list of dog breeds and their usual neck measurements - and recommended collars. Hindquarters dog collars are available in sizes from XS to Large. XS dog collars fit necks between 18 and 30cm or inches. Small collars fit cm or inches. Medium between cm. And Large dog collars are cm. Airedale: cm inches - we would recommend a comfy Hindquarters large size green or brown fabric cotton dog collar. Brighter colours, like a red dog collar , would work well too. Basset Hound: cm inches - we would recommend a Hindquarters large size brown or khaki soft cotton fabric dog collar. Beagle: cm inches - we would advise a medium sized dog collar in strong but soft and comfy cotton fabric weave, bright colours like red and purple work well. Bichon Frise: cm inches - a small size comfy dog collar would probably be best, perhaps red or blue. Or a small size adjustable harness. Border Collie: cm inches - an adjustable medium size comfy cotton collar would work well, perhaps black or grey. Border Terrier: cm inches - we advise a small size collar made from strong but soft cotton fabric weave, bright purple would work well or khaki for a muted look. Boston Terrier: cm inches - a Hindquarters small size comfy collar would work well, perhaps in red or black. Or a medium size collar would fit too, for a chunkier look. Boxer: cm inches - like lots of other breeds, there can be significant variation according to age and gender and genetics. A strapping Boxer would require a Hindquarters large size dog collar but for a younger slighter Boxer a medium size would work - a comfy khaki collar looks good. Bulldog American: cm inches - a strong but soft Hindquarters large size collar would work. Bulldog English: cm inches - a soft cotton fabric collar would be good, most colours work although red and cobalt blue both look great. Bulldog French: cm inches - either Hindquarters small or medium size collars would work. The medium size cotton dog collar is wider and so probably comfier unless wearing a harness. Bull Terrier: cm inches - a soft but strong Hindquarters medium size cotton collar would be good. Cairn Terrier: cm inches - a small size adjustable washable Hindquarters collar would suit, perhaps in green. Chihuahua: cm inches - a soft XS size dog collar would work. Chinese Crested - cm inches - a soft and comfy XS size dog collar would suit, perhaps in navy or orange. Chow Chow - cm inches - a Hindquarters large dog collar would be good, perhaps the mustard colour. Cocker Spaniel - cm inches - a soft and washable medium sized Hindquarters collar would work well, red always looks good. Collie - cm inches - a large size collar would be best, an adjustable dog collar ensures an exact and comfy fit. Corgi - cm inches - a soft but strong and washable medium sized dog collar works well, khaki and mustard both look good. Dachshund Standard - cm inches - a medium size Hindquarters collar would work best. Dachshund Mini - cm inches - there can be significant variation, most likely a Small or even XS dog collar would work best, soft but strong cotton weave with flex and give is good. Dalmatian - cm inches - an adjustable fabric dog collar in Medium or Large size, red or bright purple would be good. Deerhound - cm inches - a comfy dog collar, cobalt blue looks good. Doberman - cm inches - would require a strong large size collar, maybe black English Setter - cm inches - would require a large size collar. Fox Terrier - cm inches - a small size green fabric dog collar would be good. German Shepherd - cm inches - would require a large size soft but strong fabric dog collar. Golden Retriever - cm inches - a large size dog collar, red is classic. Great Dane - cm inches - a large size dog collar, soft but strong, black or a bright colour like orange works nicely. Greyhound - cm inches - we would recommend a wider soft dog collar, khaki always looks good. Greyhound Italian - cm inches - would require a soft XS collar, blue would suit well. Husky - cm inches - would require a soft but strong large size collar, maybe black or grey. Irish Setter - cm inches - would suit a large size dog collar, bright red would be good or perhaps mustard. Irish Terrier - cm 14 to 18 inches - a medium sized dog collar would work best, green suits well. Jack Russell - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar would work well, grey or red are good colours. Labrador - cm inches - a large sized dog collar would probably work best unless you have a small Lab. A black lab suits classic black but also red and orange , brown works well for a yellow lab. Labradoodle - cm inches - either a medium size or a large size would work, orange looks cute - and is comfy. Maltese - cm inches - a small size or XS collar would be best. Old English Sheepdog - cm inches - a large size soft fabric collar would be good, perhaps grey or red. Papillon - cm inches - an XS fabric dog collar would work well, maybe the red. Pekingese - cm inches - small dog collar size. Pointer - cm inches - a strong but soft large dog collar would work, a red dog collar stands out from the crowd. Pomeranian - cm inches - small or XS sizes. Poodle mini - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar, red always works well. Poodle Standard - cm inches - a small size fabric adjustable dog collar would be comfy, black or blue would suit most coats. Poodle Toy - 20 to 36cm or 8 to 14 inches - a Small or XS fabric dog collar Pug - cm inches - a small sized Hindquarters adjustable fabric dog collar for an exact and comfy fit, bright purple looks good. Schnauzer Standard - cm inches - a comfy adjustable dog collar in medium size, grey looks good. Schnauzer Mini - cm inches - a small size dog collar would be best, grey looks good and would be comfy. Scottish Terrier - cm inches - Medium sized dog collar. Shar Pei - cm inches - large dog collar size. Springer Spaniel - cm inches - an adjustable and washable Hindquarters dog collar in medium size, perhaps green or red. Staffordshire Bull Terrier - cm inches - depending on individual size, a medium or large adjustable fabric dog collar would work well. Vizsla - cm inches - a strong but soft medium size collar, green is a colour that suits well. Weimaraner - cm inches - a soft but strong large size Hindquarters cotton fabric dog collar would work well, both red or bright purple look particularly good and be comfy. West Highland Terrier - cm inches - a small adjustable fabric dog collar, perhaps in green. Yorkshire Terrier - cm inches - either a XS Hindquarters comfy dog collar or perhaps a small size. Please note there is often a wide variation in neck size within different breeds and types of dog, according to genetics, age and gender. So please take our dog breed neck size guide as a rough one. We recommend you measure your dog's neck before ordering a Hindquarters dog collar. How do you measure your dog's neck? It is best to measure the circumference of your dog's lower neck - allowing space for a couple of fingers - to ensure a comfy fit. Or measure your dog's existing collar when flat, between the two points where it fastens. If you have any questions, please get in touch. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? The idea of a lost puppy is terrifying, but an ID tag will help them return home. Although this silicone ID tag is more expensive than standard tags, I love that it is silent and attaches right to the collar. Crate and or containment gate Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. You can accomplish this with a crate and containment gates. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. I recommend a crate with an adjustable divider so you can give your puppy more room as they grow. Another option is to use a Cumbor containment gate to limit access to certain areas of your home. Food and water bowls There are endless options of food and water bowls. If your dog eats fast, I recommend adding slow feeder attachment. These aids in proper digestion and reduce overeating behaviors. Food and treats Your vet is probably your best source of information for selecting the right food. They create personalized plans for your dog and deliver the food right to your door. I shared my journey of picking the right food in this blog and video. Toys and chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with a variety of items to see what interests your puppy most. Ellie still has her first toy, Dino, from 5 years ago! The safest way to deliver bully sticks is to use a Bow Wow Buddy safety device so they cannot swallow or choke on the last end. Check out this blog for all things grooming. Bonus Recommendation! Online Access to Dog Training We recognized the need for convenient and effective dog training solutions, which is why we created The Hapco. Within our app, you'll discover a wealth of resources, including: video tutorials. Small to Medium 1. Dog collars are made from a variety of materials that are built for comfort, aesthetics, and durability. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs that can put their collar through the wringer, so durability should be one of the top things on your list! Nylon or polyester are the most popular materials and offer the greatest range of designs, colors, and widths. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. Cotton Fabric Cotton offers great durability, insulation, and the ability to control moisture. Many collars are made of cotton in a number of different designs and colors. Some contain a cloth sleeve on the inside around a nylon band to increase the longevity of the collar. Biothane Some dog collars are made of Biothane , which is a waterproof substance. Biothane is made of polyester and layered with polyurethane and polyvinyl. Its waterproof properties make them ideal for Golden Retrievers that are more than likely, water-loving dogs. Leather Leather is a durable, organic material with plenty of styles. Although they are more costly, they are an excellent choice for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities. Unlike collars made of synthetic materials, it is simple to clean and may be used for several years without fading. Neoprene Neoprene is a rubber-based substance that is used for a variety of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to the development of odors or mildew. Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are incredibly strong and durable and able to last several years. Polyester or Nylon Nylon or polyester collars often have the greatest range of designs, colors, and sizes due to their popularity. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible, synthetic fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. However, unlike slip or choke collars, you can set the limit to which the collar can close. Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and long-lasting, without being abrasive on the skin. Flat Front Dog Collars: These are your everyday collars that are the most commonly found. They are a flat, fabric-type collar that fastens with a plastic or metal buckle. Training or Aversive Collars This group of collars includes: Shock collars Prong collars Slip collars or choke chains They are designed to give a firm correction in the form of discomfort or pain when an undesirable behavior is displayed. A shock collar delivers an electric shock, or vibration which is controlled remotely. This is a form of correction to a specific behavior, and while their use is justified in some adult dogs that have aggression, they are not suitable for use on puppies that need positive reinforcement. And the most common training collar is the slip collar or choke chain. It does exactly that if used incorrectly, choke the dog. When it comes to puppies, there are a lot of things that people get wrong. These collars are not meant for beginners and should be used with care by experienced trainers only. You should avoid using them on young pups and only use this as a last resort when all other training methods have failed. If your pup is exhibiting behavior severe enough to warrant a stern correction, it might be better for you to seek help from a professional.


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homemade german shepherd puppy food - German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy!