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However after changing his food to a good quality grain free food, after a week he has calmed down massively and is a different dog. I wouldn't say this is a bad food but it didn't suit our puppy. We changed him to the royal canin bulldog food soon after we got him. His coat is in fantastic condition and he also produces less wind!! You will not be disappointed with this. Second bag about to be consumed, 3rd on order. Our bully adores it and we won't ever change his food. Yeh the price is expensive but you won't find it any cheaper than zooplus! Free delivery too!!! Everything about this product and the zooplus site is outstanding! Trust me.You won't be didsapointed! She loves it, she's looking a lot healthier! She was slightly over weight before but looks perfect now. Excellent service too, fast delivery. The yodel driver was very pleasant and carried the food in to my house for me. Very happy and will definetly be ordering again. Thank you. We got our little British bulldog puppy a few months ago! We haven't got much experience of looking after a puppu, especially when it comes to healthy nutrition! After we tried lots of products we realised that Royal Canin Bulldog Junior is head and shoulders above the rest. No nasty mouth smells, and good poo. Definitely recommended for new and future dog lovers. It's worth spending a bit more for the health of these little ones! No more skin problems or problems with digestion, and they have beautiful coats.A happy ending for everyone. We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. Information Ingredients Guaranteed Analysis Royal Canin knows what makes your Bulldog puppy magnificent is in the details. With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. You want to find a food that has no corn, soy, or wheat in it. Also, avoid by-products. By products can be anything including beaks, feet,etc. Look for meals ie chicken meal, fish meal, etc. Canidae is what I feed and my dogs do well. Innova is also a very good food. Also, don't get anything with animal digest in it.You want to find a large breed puppy formula because you don't want him to grow too fast too much protein like agilitydog said Meat as the first ingredient is better than anything with corn as the first ingredient imo. I feed Fromm, but it is more expensive, and not really readily available to most people. Royal Canin is expensive and also not of good quality. Having just looked at the ingredient list of the French Bulldog version, it has rice and wheat as the first two ingredients - they are just fillers. It's got animal fat in it - no mention of what that animal is. For a dog that is prone to skin problems it is not good. A good quality food has the named meat source at the top of the list of ingredients and is clearly labelled - no ambiguity. The purchaser should know exactly what it contains. There are a lot of useful videos on this topic on Youtube, I will leave here one of them, as many often have similar questions. Good Luck. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

A high-quality breeder will charge higher prices, but there is a better chance your puppy will be healthy and have fewer problems later in life. The internet allows us to do plenty of research into the breeders before we make any purchases, and there are plenty of breeders available. If your heart is set on adopting, you might get lucky to find a Bolonoodle at a dog shelter. It might take some time, but you can also ask for other mixed breeds that resemble the Bolonoodle. Bolonoodles are smart enough to play games and attempt to trick you into doing what they want. The Bolognese parent is centuries old and was a popular dog as early as the 11th century. The Bolognese parent almost went extinct before it was restored in Europe by a few breeders. They are smart and can be trained to perform tricks but quickly get bored and might move on to other activities. They are always extremely social and insist on being by your side. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are more than suitable to have around children, and they will provide each other with hours of fun. Parents will enjoy the low maintenance they require. They are extremely entertaining and will often play games with unsuspecting family members. They get along with other pets and are comfortable in small apartments as well as large homes. This breed will also get along with squirrels and rabbits that pass through the yard. We found it just as likely to play jokes on other animals as it is to play them on humans, and sometimes it can be quite entertaining. The food should be of high quality from a reputable brand. It should contain complete nutrition and use high-quality meats and vegetables. Stay away from brands that use a lot of strange ingredients, meat byproducts, and chemical preservatives like BHA. This breed tends to get plenty of exercise playing games and tricks around the home and will require little else. We recommend devoting minutes of your time each day to exercise with your Bolonoodle. The problem is that they quickly become bored and move on to other things , many times before you even get started with your training session. However, you can attempt to train your Bolonoodle by standing in front of your pet with a treat to get its attention. If you are successful and your pet sits down, give him a treat. They will also require frequent trimmings to help keep them looking neat and kept. They will not require frequent bathing, nor do they shed often. Nail trimmings and tooth brushing is also important for a comfortable gait and a healthy mouth. Minor Conditions Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is common in larger dogs, but because the Bolonoodle is predisposed to obesity, it is very common in this breed as well. Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip socket that causes the joint not to fit together correctly. Diabetes Just like humans and many other animals can get diabetes, dogs can as well. The risk of getting diabetes is higher in dogs that are overweight, and since the Bolonoodle is predisposed to becoming overweight, this problem is also a concern with this breed. Symptoms include excessive thirst, weight loss, and increased appetite. Serious Conditions Obesity Two things contribute heavily to obesity in the Bolonoodle breed of dog. The first is a lack of exercise. In some cases, children can grow or move away, reducing the exercise available to the dog. The second reason so many Bolonoodle dogs are overweight is overfeeding. Even a few treats is a lot of food to these small dogs Luxating Patella Luxating patella is a condition that causes the kneecap to move out of place. Over time your kneecap can wear out and slip out of place more and more often. This condition will affect the amount of weight your dog can place on the leg and will reduce its mobility. It will also predispose your dog to other injuries like torn ligaments. Male vs Female Both the male and female Bolonoodle stand at the same height and are the same weight. In fact, there are no discernable differences between the two. Some claim that the male exhibits alpha behavior, but we did not witness it in our experience with this breed. If you have learned something new, please share this look at the Bolonoodle on Facebook and Twitter. Featured image credit: parxel, Pixabay Contents. Male Bolonoodle Our Breeding Practices At Little Teton Doodles, we take great pride in our ethical breeding practices, ensuring our Bolonoodle puppies are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted. Our commitment to responsible breeding includes adhering to strict health testing and screening protocols and providing early socialization and training for our puppies. By prioritizing the well-being of our dogs, we can guarantee that our Bolonoodle puppies will make wonderful companions for their future families. Ethical Breeding Practices Our ethical breeding practices begin with the careful selection of our breeding dogs. We choose only the healthiest and most temperamentally sound Bolognese and Poodle parents for our Bolonoodle puppies. We can ensure these traits are passed down to their offspring by selecting dogs with excellent health and temperament. We also maintain a limited number of breeding dogs and litters, allowing us to provide individualized care and attention to each dog and puppy. Our dogs are raised in a loving, family environment where they are treated as cherished family members. This nurturing environment helps our puppies develop into well-rounded, confident, and affectionate companions. Health Testing and Screening Health testing and screening are crucial aspects of our breeding program. Before breeding, we perform comprehensive health tests on the Bolognese and Poodle parents to identify and prevent any potential genetic health issues from being passed down to the puppies. Some of the tests we perform include: Hip and elbow evaluations to screen for dysplasia Eye examinations to detect progressive retinal atrophy and other eye conditions Genetic testing for breed-specific health concerns By conducting these tests, we can ensure that our Bolonoodle puppies have the best possible start in life and minimize the risk of future health problems. Socialization and Early Training At Little Teton Doodles, we understand the importance of early socialization and training for our Bolonoodle puppies. Proper socialization helps puppies develop into well-adjusted, confident, and friendly dogs. From a young age, our puppies are exposed to various people, animals, and environments, which helps them learn to adapt to new situations quickly. We also begin basic obedience and crate training with our puppies, laying the foundation for their future training and making the transition to their new homes smoother. By providing early socialization and training, we can ensure that our Bolonoodle puppies are well-prepared for their new families and will make excellent companions. Puppy Adoption Process At Little Teton Doodles, we strive to make puppy adoption as smooth and enjoyable as possible for you and your new Bolonoodle pup. Our step-by-step process ensures you are well-prepared to welcome your new furry family member into your home. By joining our list, you will receive updates on our puppies' availability and information about upcoming litters. It will help you stay informed and ensure you take advantage of the opportunity to adopt one of our adorable puppies. This deposit is non-refundable but can be transferred to a future litter if necessary. The deposit ensures that you are committed to adopting a puppy and helps us plan for the arrival of our new litter. We will provide photos, videos, and information about each puppy's temperament and personality to help you make the best decision for your family. Once you have selected your puppy, the final payment will be due. Step 4: Arrange to get Your Puppy Home After you have chosen your puppy and made the final payment, it's time to arrange for your new furbaby to join your family. You can pick up your puppy in person at our facility or arrange to ship it to your location. We will provide you with all the necessary information and support to ensure that your puppy's journey to your home is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We will also be available for ongoing support and advice as you and your new puppy begin your journey together. Contact Little Teton Doodles Today! Little Teton Doodles is dedicated to providing loving, healthy, and well-adjusted Bolonoodle puppies to families looking for the perfect companion. Our commitment to ethical breeding practices, comprehensive health testing, and early socialization and training ensures that our puppies are ready to become cherished members of their new families. When you adopt a Bolonoodle puppy from Little Teton Doodles, you can be confident that you are bringing home a loving, intelligent, and low-shedding companion that will bring joy and companionship to your family for years to come. Contact us today! That's why we offer a 1-year genetic life-threatening guarantee on all of our puppies. We also provide a certified veterinarian report for each puppy so you can be sure that they are healthy and happy. Bolonoodle One of the lesser-known Doodles is the Bolonoodle. These dogs are rising to the top of Doodle radar, and for a good reason. They are the perfect small dog for many people. But, do you think you are ready for the responsibility? Today we will talk about all the pros and cons of owning a Bolonoodle. If you can get through this list, you are a perfect match! Origins The Bolonoodle is a hybrid, which means that they are not a pure breed. They are half Bolognese and Half Poodle. Now the Bolognese is the perfect companion dogs from Italy. They have undergone meticulous breeding to make them the ideal pet for any family. The Poodle originated on the French and German border. They are excellent duck hunting dogs and highly intelligent. Their loyalty is what made people realize that they would make great house pets too. So, after careful breeding, the toy and mini-sized Poodles came about. These smaller Poodles are what we use to mix with the Bolognese. The Bolonoodle is a new breed that has only been around since .They are the perfect companion that cares about you and your family. Pros Of Owning A Bolonoodle Now that we see where the Bolonoodle comes from, we can understand how they interact in our lives. First, we will look at all the fantastic qualities that make them an excellent dog to have. Hypoallergenic One of the best aspects of the Bolonoodle is that they are hypoallergenic. Having a low shedding dog is excellent for anyone who has asthma or allergies. A word of caution, though. Hypoallergenic dogs can still cause a reaction for people severely allergic to dogs. Since all dogs produce dander and saliva, there are no dogs that are truly hypoallergenic in this sense. Temperament Your Bolonoodle has the perfect temperament for a lap dog. They are patient and very relaxed. You will notice that not much bothers this Doodle. They enjoy spending time with their owners and playing games. This Doodle is brilliant, but can sometimes get into a little trouble. If they get bored throughout the day, they might get mischievous. Overall they are a loyal and dedicated companion. Training Most people want a dog that is easy to train. And lucky for you, the Bolonoodle is eager to please and loves a challenge. You can use this to your advantage by using a positive reinforcement training method. Doing so will get you a well-behaved dog that learns quickly. Energy Level The Bolonoodle is a very laid back dog. They are considered a moderately active dog that does well with short walks and playtime. Puppies generally have more energy, but you may find as your dog gets older, they need more encouragement. Without daily walks and the right amount of playtime, they become obese, and that brings on a whole other bout of problems. Bolonoodles thrive more off mental stimulation. They love to have something to do at all times. Favorite activities include training, puzzles , chewing, and playing with you. If they do not feel that they are getting enough, they might resort to bad behaviors. These dogs are known for getting into closed areas to make a little trouble. To keep this from happening, you will want to have a wide variety of toys that you rotate every week. Low Barking When most people think of small dogs, they think of a little yappy thing. That is not true of the Bolonoodle. They typically only bark when necessary, and can be taught not to bark at certain things. Size The Bolonoodle has such a large personality in such a small body. The Bolonoodle only gets pounds when fully grown. This size makes them perfect for apartments, along with their low energy and barking. And smaller dogs are cheaper all around to care for. Lifespan Small dogs have longevity like no other. The Bolonoodle has a life expectancy of years. And sometimes they live much more. If you pick a puppy in good health and of impeccable breeding, you may get almost 20years with your best friend. And since Bolonoodles are relatively common, you should be able to find a breeder close to you. That cuts costs more on shipping and visiting your puppy before you bring them home. Since they are so slow to anger, it makes them great for children of all ages. Their size makes them perfect for small toddlers, as large breeds knock over children often. Apartment Friendly We already mentioned that these Doodles are suitable for apartments. But this is a major plus for people who have a hard time finding the perfect apartment dog. Their low barking is something all your neighbors will appreciate. But there are a few things that you should be aware of before getting a Bolonoodle. Grooming The biggest con of owning a Bolonoodle is how much grooming they require. Bolonoodles might have a hypoallergenic coat, but with it comes a lot of maintenance. You will need to have several grooming supplies on hand like combs, brushes, and dematting tools. If your dog has any mats left, then you will need to use the dematting rake. After all the knots are out, then you will need to brush your dog to pick up what little shed there is. Severely matted dogs have an increased risk of yeast, fleas, fungus, and even pain. When you brush them daily, you are making sure that they are staying healthy. Another part of grooming the Bolonoodle is taking them to the salon. Your dog will need to see a professional groomer every weeks for a hair cut. Small size is another plus for this because most groomers charge by size. Nevertheless, it still can get expensive. Mental Stimulation We mentioned before that Bolonoodles need a lot to keep them busy. This can be a con for full-time workers. It can take a lot of trial and error to see what will keep your dog happy while you are away. And it can be expensive trying to keep a proper rotation of toys. At any given point, you want about ten toys for your dog to play freely. Then you will want to have another set of toys that they use when you are gone for hours at a time. These should be brainteasers, interactive toys, or puzzles. And on top of it all, you will want to have enough toys to switch every couple of weeks. Separation Anxiety Keeping your dog from getting bored is only half the worry. The Bolonoodle is notorious for getting separation anxiety and do best with owners that spend a lot of time at home. If you work or travel a lot, a Bolonoodle may not be the right fit for you. If someone is home for the majority of the day, they do wonderfully for a few hours a day alone. But for their mental health , it is best not to get one if you work over 40 hours a week. Health All dog breeds have certain medical conditions they are prone to getting. Bolondoodles are prone to: Obesity. All rights reserved. Here is a collage of a few of our customers with their Bolo-Noodles.What is a BoloNoodle? History: This is a cross breed between a registered Bolognese and registered Toy Poodle. From what we have learned, Europeans have been crossing the Bolognese with the Toy Poodle since about the 14th century, but no one ever named the hybrid combination. It was simply referred to as the poor man's Bolognese. This hybrid was recognized as a great family pet in Europe and Jarbeth's Kennel is proud to offer you this opportunity to own one as well. This cross-breed has been around in the USA since about .We know. To our knowledge, Bolo-Noodles are offered exclusively at Jarbeth's Kennel. We were certainly the first. Non-shedding, hypo-allergenic, no doggie odor. Can be any color, but are primarily white or cream. The Bolognese is an all white breed, so any color found in the BoloNoodle will have been inherited from the Poodle parent. Our dogs have produced, white, cream, cream and white; black, black and white, black and tan, black and silver; black-brown and white; blue and white, brown and white; and occasionally a brindle color. All of the colors except true black, fade at the dog matures. For example, a brown dog will turn cream, a dog that looks black at birth may fade to silver or blue because it was not a true black, and a cream and white dog may be all white as an adult. To see examples, click here. The BoloNoodle may have the single layer, straighter Bolognese coat or the thicker, double coat of the Poodle. Nearly all BoloNoodles are built like the Bolognese, sturdy, square built, well muscled and athletic, seeming only to adopt the Poodle colors. The Bolognese is by far the dominate breed. Temperament: Both the Bolognese and Poodle have wonderful temperaments. The BoloNoodle has the best characteristics of both breeds. Both are highly intelligent and loyal. Very versatile as a great family dog or companion dog for a single individual. The go-everywhere, do anything dog. Click here for an extended explanation. All of our customers love their Bolo-Noodles. Size: lbs. Height is up to 12 inches at the shoulder. I said the Bolognese only comes it white. They insisted that they had seen a black Bolognese while traveling in Europe on their honeymoon, that it was a cross with a Toy Poodle and called the poor man's Bolognese. So I did some research and learned that what they had seen was true. And this was exactly what I had been looking for. I had been looking for a unique niche for our enterprise and we came up with the BoloNoodle. A BoloNoodle produced by Jarbeth's Kennel will come with ACHC registration papers, proving that these puppies are from registered, full-blooded breeding stock. They come from two smart parent breeds, which should make them pretty easy to train. For the most part, this is the case, though female Bolonoodles are often stubborn and independent, which can make them harder to train than males. After all, they have a ton of hair, and it can grow into a tangled mess. In truth, Bolonoodles need only moderate grooming. Diabetes: Diabetes in dogs is similar to diabetes in humans. It comes in two forms: insulin-deficiency diabetes and insulin-resistance diabetes. Both are manageable, though neither is curable. For dogs, insulin-deficiency diabetes is the most common type. Urolithiasis: More commonly known as urinary stones, urolithiasis is when hard stones form in the urinary tract, caused by the buildup of minerals. Sebaceous Adenitis: Sebaceous adenitis is a pretty rare immune-mediated condition that leads to inflamed skin that forms scales and crust. With this condition, the femur and hip fail to form correctly, causing the femur to rub on the hip socket, resulting in pain, deterioration of the bone, and loss of mobility. Retinal Dysplasia: Retinal dysplasia is an early-onset form of progressive retinal atrophy that usually becomes noticeable around months old. Patellar Luxation: Patellar luxation is a kneecap that dislocates. Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Progressive retinal atrophy is the degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the eyes that leads to vision loss and blindness. Mitral Valve Disease: Mitral valve disease is when the mitral valve of the heart begins to leak. It can cause heart murmurs and congestive heart failure. All Bolonoodles are small dogs, so size differences between the sexes are minimal. However, there are notable temperamental differences between males and females. Females tend to be independent and stubborn. Males are usually the friendlier dogs that want to please their owners. This makes males much easier to train. The stubborn independence of a female Bolonoodle can be difficult for anyone to train, but especially for a new dog owner. It only makes sense that their offspring, the Bolonoodle, would also be hypoallergenic. Poodles are widely considered to be some of the smartest dogs in the world, and Bolognese are thought to be the smartest of the Bichon-type breeds. Put them together and you get a very smart dog that needs a lot of mental stimulation. Without enough mental engagement, your Bolonoodle could easily become mischievous and even destructive. Like the Labrador Retriever, Poodles were originally created to be water retrievers that would retrieve waterfowl shot down by hunters in bodies of water. To be successful, these dogs had to be great swimmers and love the water, which is a trait still shared by Poodles and their offspring today, including the Bolonoodle. They have minimal maintenance needs and are incredibly friendly, playful dogs. Highly intelligent canines, Bolonoodles do require lots of mental stimulation to alleviate boredom and prevent mischievous behavior. Thanks to hypoallergenic parents and a coat that sheds very little, Bolonoodles are generally hypoallergenic as well. They have long coats that need only minimal maintenance, particularly if you keep them trimmed somewhat short. 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Share this article Share She also slammed the fact that Tuna has to go through so much 'in order to be able to breathe'. It is not okay and we should be fighting against how this has become normal for these breeds,' Katherine added. The puppy pictured on the day of left and after right the procedure Tuna - who was rescued in September last year as part of an RSPCA animal welfare investigation - had snored 'extremely loudly', with her body straining for air when she slept. The roll of excess skin around her nose - known as 'the rope' was also causing sore skin and hot spots which could lead to infections. The pup has also had an operation on her eyelids, as, to add to her list of troubles, the weight of Tuna's face pulled them down, making her weep. A brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome surgery - which will help her breathe by widening her nostrils and removing excess tissue from her soft palate - is next on the list. Katherine added: 'Tuna has had thousands of pounds worth of surgery so far, and she's only months-old. Tuna pictured before her surgery. The roll of excess skin around her nose - known as 'the rope' was also causing sore skin and hot spots which could lead to infections 'She's also very lucky to have access to a vet who specialises in these surgeries as they are very complex, and also incredibly expensive. RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines has also hit out at the focus on how our pets look, leading to unhealthy breeding practices. Some can't run and play with their doggy friends, and many find the hot weather incredibly difficult. April 17, 8 Comments French Bulldogs have been steadily rising in popularity in recent years. This is largely due to an increase of celebrity Frenchie owners, and picture-based social networks such as Instagram where these pups can be celebrities in their own right. This breed comes with a variety of unique needs that need to be met to ensure they have the highest quality of life. In this post, we will take a look at some of the care concerns and unique features that make the French Bulldog face so cute and lovable! Short Noses, Cute Noises One of the defining characteristics of the French bulldog breed is their adorable, mushed-in noses. In addition to giving their faces a distinct wrinkly appearance, this can also lead to unique breathing patterns which can result in a variety of noises. Frenchies are usually snorers, tend to grunt when excited and make a variety of snuffling, snorting noises when moving around. This is pretty typical for the breed and not usually indicative of a breathing problem. If your Frenchie does seem to be a particularly heavy breather when awake you may need to take them to a vet for their airways to be evaluated. Frenchies can be prone to elongated soft pallets which might need to be surgically corrected to open up their airways. They have shortened muzzles that are almost non-existent when compared to other dogs. They still have the same amount of soft tissue as dogs with longer snouts though. This is one of the reasons they have so many wrinkles and folds in their faces and around their noses. Unfortunately, this can cause some problems. In addition to the issues mentioned in the last section, the shortened muzzles can also make it difficult for Frenchies to regulate their body temperature since dogs generally do this by panting. The surface area of the mouth and the act of exhaling hot air and inhaling air cooled by the saliva in the mouth helps keep dogs comfortable. This process is much less effective in French Bulldogs. Keep the Wrinkles Clean! Bacteria can also grow in this area if too much moisture gets trapped there. Some dogs may need this more or less often depending on their unique face and how much time they spend outside. Simply run the wipe around and under their wrinkles making sure to especially get the deep folds typically found over and around the nose. The only problem with this approach though is that it can leave water trapped in the folds. This can lead to bacteria or infections. How Dry is Too Dry? Lightly using an anti-bacterial wipe — that is safe for animals — is the best way to avoid this problem. This will keep them safe and comfortable. You may also want to keep an eye on their noses to make sure they stay properly moisturized as well. There are special nose-care products you can buy for this purpose. Asking your vet for recommendations is probably the best way to go. That being said, one of the negative aspects of the bulldog breed is that they are more susceptible to developing skin issues, including a reddish-pink color around their mouth or muzzle. All dogs produce the chemical porphyrin in their tears and saliva which can cause redness on their faces. A pink muzzle is more common in bulldogs than other breeds due to their flat faces and wrinkly skin, because the saliva and tears more easily accumulate within their face folds. Sometimes English bulldog puppies have pink muzzles when they are young but grow out of it when more of their hair comes in. For my bulldog, a lot of the pinkness is due to the smearing of tearstains on his muzzle. Bacteria and Yeast One of the most endearing aspects of the bulldog breed is their wonderful wrinkles but, unfortunately, those wrinkles can harbor bacteria and yeast which, over time, can cause skin issues that can sometimes become severe. If this happens your bulldog will often lick, rub or chew on the infected area, especially around their eyes and muzzle. By the way, it can also happen to their ears, toes and groin area. The bad news is that they might be symptoms of an underlying dental or other health problem. Cherry Eye Interestingly, dogs have 3 eyelids, including bulldogs. This problem, sadly, is found more in bulldogs that other dog breeds and is one of the major causes of the pink or red color seen in their eyes. The good news is that cherry eye is treatable and, in most cases, is only see in younger dogs that are 2 years old or less. Of course, if this is the case the dog should be treated as soon as possible. Dental Disease If your Bulldog is suffering from any type of periodontal disease it can cause a major buildup of plaque and bacteria which can lead to inflamed gums or gingivitis. Dry Eye Syndrome Depending on certain factors like their environment and overall health, your bulldog can develop dry eyes. Corneal Ulcers and Glaucoma 2 of the most serious illnesses your bulldog can suffer are glaucoma and corneal ulcers, both of which should be treated right away and both of which can cause serious redness of their eyes. The occurrence of pink muzzles and eyes can happen to all bulldogs but some are affected more than others. The fact is, with their relatively flat faces, the bulldog breed is much more susceptible than other breeds to this problem. But, since all dogs have the substance porphyrin in their tears and saliva, and all dogs normally salivate and shed tears, nearly all bulldogs will get pink muzzles from time to time. The real question is how often the problem occurs. Yes and no. If your bulldog has this pink color all the time it may be a sign that they have an underlying health problem that you should have taken care of by a trained veterinarian. On the other hand, normal salivating and eye tearing can cause this pink color as well from time to time and is normal. Veterinarians are trained to know the difference between a normally occurring situation and one that requires attention and treatment. When it comes to pink or red eyes they will be more concerned because it can be a symptom of conjunctivitis cherry eye and could cause lasting harm to your pet. As for the pink color on their muzzles, most vets will ask how often it is happening and, if you tell them it happens a lot, will look for an underlying cause that goes beyond the naturally occurring chemical porphyrin. Yes, most definitely. All dogs produce the chemical porphyrin in their tears and saliva and thus can be affected, although in some dogs the color change will be brown instead of pink. However, the pink discoloration problem occurs more frequently in bulldogs because of the many wrinkles and folds of skin that they have. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels tend to get this discoloration around their gums due to infection, for example, while other dog breeds are more susceptible to allergies and other health issues. Conclusion A pink muzzle and eyes are more common in bulldogs than other breeds due to their flat faces and wrinkly skin. In many cases, this is normal due to the chemical in their tears and saliva, although it can also be an indicator of an underlying health issue. Here are some of my favorite Dog and Bulldog Products Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful for your dog and bulldog questions. These are affiliate links, and I am compensated for referring traffic. But in all honesty, these are the exact product that I use or recommend to everyone. Food For Bulldogs: Royal Canin Bulldog was the dog food our breeder recommended for our bulldog with a bit of canned pumpkin added for each meal to give a bit of extra fiber Poo Bags: For poo bags we use Greener Walker poop bags. We have used them for over a year without having a single leak. Also, these bags are made to be friendlier for the environment. They are good for sensitive skin which bulldogs are known to have. I love this dog bed because it has an outer liner which can be replaced if it gets too beat up. To see all our most up-to-date product recommendations , check out this resource that I made for you! March 12, Bulldogs are cute, adorable dogs with great personalities and features distinct from most other dog breeds. The breed can exhibit especially distinct facial skin folds, tail folds and thick stubby legs and feet apart from many other features related to these dogs. Possessing these facial folds and other skin folds means they are more prone to skin problems from a combination of chafing, heat, and moisture. Two major problems to be aware of are skin fold dermatitis also called intertrigo and pyoderma bacterial skin infection. When detected and then properly treated, your bulldog can have a happy, healthy life. Often, skin fold concerns may need to be managed over time to prevent recurrent problems and need for therapy. What Causes Facial Folds in Bulldogs? Deep folds in bulldogs can be the result of breeding as well as individual variation. In-breeding for selection of flat faces can play a role as flat, pushed-in faces and prominent face folds can make bulldogs look adorable, but most breeders are aware that these features also make dogs more prone to having an increased risk of multiple health problems. Thus, responsible breeders are helping limit breed-related problems. If the dog happens to be affected by other skin problems such as environmental or food allergies, these may lead to inflamed skin which would accentuate the skin folds and chances of them getting infected. Other areas with prominent skin folds in dogs include: Tail fold at base of tail Arm pit area Head wrinkles in some dogs Paws Areas with skin folds result in a warm and moist environment within the crease of the skin and may nourish bacteria and yeast growth. These organisms are present on healthy skin with or without folds but if provided with the moist, warm location these microbes can flourish and multiply to levels that cause skin infection and discomfort to the pet. Skin Fold Pyoderma Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin, which causes lesions such as erythema skin redness , alopecia hair loss , crusting and pustules inflamed pus-filled pimples. Other symptoms of localized skin fold pyoderma may include: Moist skin fold A dried discharge within the fold Itchiness Brown staining of hair close to the fold Prevention Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help to reduce the prominence of some body folds. Keep them clean by washing those areas with an antimicrobial product that is gentle on the skin and keeping moisture to a minimum is helpful. Steroidal creams, scrubbing of the affected area, dry paper towels can all temporarily seem to help but are likely to cause worsening of the localized skin fold dermatitis. If an infection has already set in, it may need to be treated by your veterinarian prior to pursuing ongoing management of the affected skin fold. Skin Fold Yeast Dermatitis Similar to bacterial skin infection of the skin folds, yeast infections often the Malassezia yeast can lead to itchiness, discomfort, inflammation and redness within and around the skin folds. If a yeast infection were present within the fold, it would have to be treated before ongoing management can be pursued to prevent future infections. A mixed infection of bacteria and yeast may also be present within the folds. Your veterinarian should be able to differentiate between yeast and bacteria quite easily by pursuing a quick test called skin cytology. To ensure appropriate therapy, it is best to diagnose the type of infection based on skin cytology testing, rather than guessing if the inflamed skin fold contains bacteria or yeast in it. Tail Fold Dermatitis and Some Other Similar Forms English and French bulldog pups can suffer from abnormal tail bone growth that will twist the skin around and under the sacral vertebrae creating a deep pocket of skin folds. This condition is sometimes called the corkscrew tail. Management of tail folds can be more hands-on. Take a medicated wipe and wipe degrees in the tail fold and gently wipe the deep fold. Some pets can be quite sensitive in this area if an infection is present. Female dogs of many breeds can also develop vaginal skin fold dermatitis. Bassett hounds may be prone to armpit and groin fold dermatitis. Dogs possess a small fold on the lower lip on each side, which is more pronounced in some breeds of dogs. Lip fold dermatitis may occur in some of these dogs. Treatment for Skin Fold Dermatitis Usually treatment includes frequent antimicrobial products based on the nature of the infection within the skin fold. Topical therapy is usually adequate. Some dogs may be prone to severe infections or recurrence of infection within skin folds. Such dogs may unfortunately require surgical treatment to remove deep facial folds to prevent inflammation and microbial build up. Most pets with skin fold dermatitis can be managed well with ongoing care that is usually not expensive and quite easy to administer. It is vital to remember that a dog affected by recurrent skin fold problems may in fact be demonstrating skin fold problems as a clue to underlying skin disease such as allergies. This is especially true if ears or other parts of skin are also affected. Bulldog breeds are also predisposed to environmental allergies along with having prominent skin folds. Such patients would greatly benefit from diagnosis and control of the underlying disease in addition to on-going skin fold management. He is also the dermatology feature editor for Canadian Veterinary Journal.

Diet Breeders Preference Many people are surprised to learn that there are NOT three types of Golden Retrievers, as you often will read on the internet. Instead, there is only one Golden Retriever breed possessing different colorings and structures. In truth, those colorings and differences are due to the preferences of breeders for specific physical structures, including coat length and thickness and color preferences. Of, if your buying your Golden Retriever from a non-registered breeder, it again depends on the lineage of its parents and grandparents. In other words, if you want to know approximately how fluffy your Golden Retriever will be, then looks at its parents. His mother was taller and lankier, with a short wavy coat. The result? Bailey is a mix. He has the size of his mother and the thickness of his father, and his coat is gold with white markings, mid-length and wavy. However, beware that even seeing the parents is no guarantee of a fluffy Golden Retriever. And that is because Golden Retrievers can have individual differences within a family litter. Just like human families can have wide variations among siblings in their eyes, hair, and physical attributes. The reason? Genetics You can take heart that almost all Golden Retriever puppies will have some degree of fluff factor. However, suppose you find your Golden Retriever puppy is not as fluffy as another. In that case, unfortunately, you have little control over that. How much or little fluff your Golden Retriever has largely depends on genetics. In other words, that is how your puppy was born. Golden Retriever puppies are individuals, and the interplay of genetics in each of those puppies can be very complex. This means there can be a wide variety of trait variations between individuals. Consider human beings, for example. You may have a child that is taller or shorter, has brown or blue eyes, and goes bald later in life. So, similarly, you may have a Golden Retriever puppy that is not as fluffy as your neighbors solely because of genetics. As well, even within a litter, you can have variations. So, while your Golden Retriever puppy might be highly fluffy, someone else selects one that is far less so. Regardless if your Golden Retriever puppy is high or low on the fluff scale, I can guarantee it will be cute and adorable they all are. And fluffiness is fleeting. It decreases as the puppy ages in adolescence and adulthood discussed next. Your puppy is special and unique in its own right. I have yet to meet a Golden Retriever that is not. Moreover, the degree of fluffiness does not necessarily guarantee that your adult Golden Retriever will be long-haired. Again, genetics does. Be mindful that the coat you see on your puppy will not be the same as the one it has as an adult, and that includes color, length, and fluffiness. Age The next factor that affects fluffiness is age. Puppies that are less than 12 weeks old are all fluffy. However, as noted in the previous section, fluffiness is fleeting. Within the first three months of age, the Golden Retriever puppy has very thin, soft goose-like fur. Golden Retrievers puppies are similar in that their coats are thinner and more fuzz-like. The fuzz-like fur, due to it being lighter, tends to stand up more and is more frizzy. So it puffs up the puppy making it look fluffy. The puppies get protection and warmth from their mother and littermates early on. However, as the Golden Retriever puppy ages and becomes more independent, its fuzzy fur thickens and lengthens. Then, it is slowly replaced by a longer coat. Bailey was a fluffy puppy. That thinner, fuzz-like coat that is consistent with a fluffy furball is most prominent within the first 12 weeks, after which it begins to lessen as the coat grows in. The coat will rapidly thicken beyond three months of age, and the fluffiness associated with a young puppy decreases. Typically, there is nothing to worry about in the first eight weeks as the mother keeps the puppies clean by licking them. A Golden Retriever puppy should not be bathed before eight weeks of age. Your puppy will should still be with the breeder within the first eight weeks of its life, and typically, there will be no baths. However, many breeders ours included will give your Golden Retriever its first bath at about eight weeks old, usually before you bring it home. Bathing removes any dirt or oils from the fur and removes any matting. The coat has more volume and lift, making the puppy look more fluffy. No different than if you have hair that is dirty, greasy, and matted down, and then wash it. Immediately after it dries, it has more volume and lifts, and it looks fluffier. One word of caution. Overbathing can remove essential oils and cause skin issues. There is no need to bathe a Golden Retriever more than every six to eight weeks. Health and Medical Issues Health or medical issues or medications can impact a Golden Retriever, including the fur. Often the coat will be thin and lack shine, and there could be excessive shedding, dandruff, or dry fur and skin. Some medical issues that can impact a Golden Retrievers coat are hormones, parasites, cancer, and problems with digestion and metabolism. Arthritis, obesity, or malnutrition can also cause issues with the fur. Skin issues such as allergies or hot spots may also impact the coat, and excessive scratching can exasperate the problem. Fur and skin issues are often a sign of an underlying health issue. If your Golden Retriever is showing signs of skin and fur issues such as excess itching, shedding, and a thin, lackluster coat, consider booking an appointment with your vet for an examination. Another cause of potential fur issues is stress and anxiety. If your Golden Retriever appears sad or depressed, it is often due to stressors. Sadness and depression can also affect appetite and desire to exercise, which in turn, can impact the fur. Diet Like a poor diet can impact our hair; the same is true for our Golden Retriever. A diet deficient in nutrients or calories can cause a malnourished dog or a dog that is too skinny , which impacts health and fur. Likewise, lacking adequate macro and micronutrients can cause the fur to be thin, look dull, be matted, and fall out. In contrast, overfeeding a Golden Retriever can cause obesity which can prevent a Golden Retriever from grooming itself properly. Furthermore, a dog that is too fat is not only more prone to health issues but has a shorter lifespan too. Watch for allergens. Often if your Golden Retriever is allergic to a specific ingredient, it will manifest in the skin and coat. Itchiness, hotspots, excess shedding, and a thin, lackluster coat could be signs of an allergen or skin issue resulting from the diet. Also, watch table feeding. Premium dog foods are designed to provide the optimum amount and balance of nutrients for your dog, something which table scraps may not provide adequately. Plus, table feeding can cause a dog to become a picky eater. A common allergen for Golden Retrievers is dairy products, including milk. How fluffy your Golden Retriever becomes is mainly dependent on those issues discussed earlier: breeder preference, genetics, and age. However, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to make your Golden Retriever more fluffy. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight with adequate exercise along with feeding it premium dog food is important for optimum coat health, as is keeping the dog clean and brushing it regularly. As discussed earlier, a Golden Retriever puppy should be bathed no earlier than eight weeks of age. If your breeder does not give your Golden Retriever puppy a bath before taking it home, then you can proceed to provide the puppy with its first bath. In addition to making your puppy more fluffy, introducing it to regular baths early on ensures that it becomes used to being bathed. Doing so makes it much easier as the dog gets bigger. Keep it as short as possible and as positive as possible. Your puppy is in a strange house with strange people and is now separated from its mother, littermate, and home. Add in a scary bath now, and you have a stressed puppy. In fact, I might suggest waiting until week nine or ten, so your puppy can acclimate to you and your home first. While blow dryers are great for puffing up fur and accentuating the fluff factor, be mindful of the heat. If you decide to use a blow dryer, then be mindful of the temperature and the length of time you are using it. This is especially true of puppies. Puppies have smaller surface areas and do not yet possess their full coats, which offers some protection against heat. Moreover, dogs do not sweat but instead regulate heat by panting. As a result, a small puppy is less equipped to keep up with cooling if overheated. The next thing you can do to make your Golden Retriever more fluffy is to brush it regularly. Brushing will help remove loose hairs and dirt while redistributing body oil. Regular grooming practices are vital for maintaining your Golden Retriever in optimum health. Doing so will ensure a healthy dog that has an attractive coat. In addition, premium dog food coupled with proper portions and adequate exercise will ensure your dog has all the nutrients it needs while maintaining a healthy weight and good digestion. Adding supplements such as salmon oil can help produce a shiny, soft, and healthy coat and aid in healthier joints, brain, and heart. To help ensure a healthy, well-balanced Golden Retriever that is at an ideal weight, make sure your dog gets regular daily walks or runs. Finally, regular vet check-ups will ensure there are no medical issues that need addressing. Regular vet check-ups are also the perfect time to discuss any coat issues. Are Golden Retriever Puppies Fluffy? There are few cuter things than a Golden Retriever puppy. As puppies, one of the most adorable things is their fluffy, goose-like fur. So, is this trait specific to a few lucky puppies, or are all Golden Retrievers puppies fluffy? Most Golden Retriever puppies will be fluffy up until three months of age. Within the first three months, the puppy possesses fluffy, soft fur that helps regulate body temperature. After three months, the coat begins to thicken and lengthen, gradually becoming less fluffy as the dog ages. Yes, the Golden Retriever puppy is adorable with their juvenile coat being so high on the fluff factor. You wish you could keep them small and fluffy forever. But can you? As your Golden Retriever ages, it will become less and less fluffy. Before 3 months of age, the fur of a Golden Retriever puppy is similar to fuzzy goose down. However, as the Golden Retriever ages, its coat begins to grow. The coat thickens and increases in length, and the dog develops its double coat. Golden Retrievers possess a double coat consisting of a thinner and lighter inner coat that helps regulate body temperature and a lustrous golden outer coat, which is thicker and water-resistant. While the coat still might have a fluffy-ish appearance, it typically will not be the same as before month three. And it will continue to become less so over time. As an adult Golden Retriever, the dog may have more dense hair, and that fur might be longer. As a result, the dog may appear a bit more fluffy than an adult Golden Retriever with less length and thickness. Again, this is determined by genetics and breeding. For example, some Golden Retrievers have shorter, less dense coats, while others have longer coats. Bailey is only 1. Still, as an adult, a Golden Retriever with a longer, thicker coat, while looking a bit more fluffy, will not look like it did as a puppy. The hair is longer and thicker, which is heavier and lays on the body more, versus the lighter fuzzy fur that a puppy has, which has more volume and lift. So, the short answer is no; Golden Retrievers do not stay fluffy, at least not to the same degree as they are when puppies. Final Thoughts Golden Retriever puppies are pretty much all fluffy. However, there is a timer on that fluffiness, and after about the 3rd month of age, that soft, thick fuzzy fur will start to thicken and grow. So by adulthood, while most Golden Retrievers have a long, dense coat, they lose the fluffiness they had as puppies. While you can control what breeder you buy a dog from and from that, get a good idea of what it will look like , you cannot control its genetics. Need more convincing? Fluffy vs. Learn more. This breed is so famous for being a charming member of the family. His piercing brown eyes, friendly face, and striking rich coat make him insanely beautiful. When you are around him, you cannot resist the temptation of running your fingers over his fluffy coat. He will fill your life with so much joy that you never imagined possible. When choosing a puppy, you might encounter both the fluffy and non-fluffy types. Granted, the first type is the most abundant but it is not uncommon to have a non-fluffy pooch as well. Which one should you go for and why? To keep you informed, we will highlight what you should expect from both fluffy and non-fluffy Golden retriever puppies. Their coats feature soft, fluffy hair. However, as they reach three months of age, you will notice the coat taking on the appearance of long hair. This begins at the tail where a few strands of long hair will grow over the soft fluffy hair of the puppyhood stage. The feathers start at the tail then grow on the legs and stomach area. Gradually, the rest of the areas will grow flat, long locks with the new hair being longer and darker than light puppy fur. Instead of the puppy shedding his fur, the adult hair often grows on top of the fluff. Even as the adulthood hair catches on, some Goldens will still have fur variations on their skin. If you have visited a rescue or a breeding center, you have probably noticed this. Ending up with a non-fluffy goldie can be really frustrating, especially if you know that Golden retriever puppies should have fluffy coats when they are young. So what can cause a Golden retriever puppy to lack the fluff? Here are a few suggestions. Genetics Genetics plays out a lot in the making of the puppy. Coat length is a hereditary issue. To know if the appearance of the coat is a result of genetics, talk to the breeder and find out if the parents had the same coat. If one of the parents had the same coat or something close when they were little, you definitely have nothing to worry about. Some are long-haired while others are short-haired. The common short-haired variety includes field-bred golden retrievers. Bred to work in the field and hunt, this type has relatively short hair than his counterparts. By now, the hairs are preparing to shoot and so you cannot judge the future based on what you see now. Wait until he turns months of age to observe what is going on before making a conclusive judgment. Typically, a growing puppy needs a perfect balance of fats, proteins, vegetables, and fatty oils to be in top shape. The only way to rule this one out is to visit the vet. Health Issues Last but not least, a non-fluffy Golden retriever puppy may be suffering from health issues that directly impact his coat health. If your pup shows any signs of sickness including decreased appetite, restlessness, stress, anxiety, diarrhea, vomiting, or just being in bad mood for long periods of time, let him be checked. But before you do, you have to know what to expect when it comes to caring for the coat lest you get confused and overwhelmed. Ideally, you want to start grooming your ball of fluff as a puppy. The earlier you start teaching him about grooming, the easier things will be for you because the dog will get used to it early. First things first, a golden retriever should not be shaved. If you shave him, he runs a chance of freezing in winter and suffering a heat stroke during summer. To be safe, simply trim the hairs if they grow too long but really, you may not even need to trim anything. Just locate any long hairs and clip them a bit for a good look. Perhaps the only advisable thing would be to brush the coat once or twice a week to keep it neat and keep any loose hairs away from your surfaces. Brushing allows the body to release its natural oils and makes the coat shiny and cute. A slicker brush will get the job done to perfection. It has a wide surface filled with pins and will help your work through loose hair and mats. What about a Non-Fluffy Coat? Some people consider non-fluffy golden retriever puppies to be less attractive compared to their fluffy counterparts. While that may be true to a certain extent, having a non-fluffy type may be a blessing in disguise. This is because you have less hair to worry about. This means fewer grooming sessions for you as well. The best grooming tool for a non-fluffy golden retriever is the bristle brush. It is less intense and is ideal for your pup. A weekly brushing schedule should do the job. At this stage, expect the puppy to play with the bristle brush and chew it up. That is the whole process of getting him used to it. After a few sessions, he will be comfortable with grooming and will give you an easy time. Final Thoughts Wondering whether to buy a fluffy or non-fluffy golden retriever? Both options are good-looking dogs with the same incredible temperament of the breed. Caring for the coats is slightly different as well as looks but either way, you will have a great canine friend in your golden retriever. Related Posts:. However, like most breeds, they can come with some health concerns and grooming needs you must keep in mind. While many coat issues are a simple fix, this can be a sign of deeper issues that need addressed such as poor nutrition. Your Golden Is Not the Right Age One thing many forget when adding a golden retriever to their family is that their coat will go through several phases. The coat that your puppy arrives to you with will not be the exact same texture as what they grow older with. If your dog is not yet reaching that fluffy golden retriever coat you were hoping for, it may not be time for them to yet. However, this is very normal, and a puppy coat will be much different than the coat later in life. You should focus more on training your pup and teaching good grooming habits at this stage. This feathering begins at the tail and moves upward to the head, while hair begins to darken in color. This is a good idea of what your adult dog will look like. It is important to note that some golden retrievers will take longer to reach their adult coat. After the three year mark, if your dog still does not have a fluffy coat or you notice any coat changes, this is when you should become concerned. If your dog has not yet reached adulthood, their coat is not a major concern and patience is key! As a pet owner, it can be challenging to know exactly what your pet needs and golden retrievers have a fairly high maintenance coat. You will want to offer your pet regular coat care as part of your daily routine. This should start as soon as you bring your puppy home, even before they truly need it. This will establish good grooming techniques and ensure that your dog is used to regular brushing. Removes dead skin cells which will cut down on the levels of dander your pet has. Removing excess dead hairs will avoid matting and keep hair detangled. Start with a softer brush for puppies and get a sturdier brush as your dog ages to remove unwanted dead hairs. Routine Bathing Will Keep Your Golden Fluffy Another important part of raising any dog but especially golden retriever is to routinely bathe your pet. This will help ensure that the coat remains supple and free of any debris. Dogs that have longer coats can easily become entangled with small twigs, burrs, and dirt which are hard to remove without regular bathing. Before bathing your golden retriever, remove any notable sticks or debris. You will want to find a shampoo that works well for the breed, which you can often ask a vet for assistance with. You should only bathe your dog as needed, and never more than a couple of times per week. If your dog is particularly hard to bathe or brush, you may want to take it to a professional groomer. This can also help if your dog has gotten matted or knots that you cannot deal with on your own. Overall, proper coat care is the first step in creating a fluffy coat. Some golden retrievers will simply not have as fluffy coats as others, which is something you cannot necessarily change. If your notice that your puppy grows a less fluffy coat and wavier coat, this may just be their genetics. The first step to determining if your dog simply does not have a fluffy coat is to consult your breeder. Often puppies of two golden retrievers that have wavy hair will also have wavier hair. If your puppy has a coat that resembles the parents, that probably means they too will have a wavy coat. If you have rescued or adopted the dog, this can clearly be a bigger challenge. However, it is simply put that not all golden retrievers will be fluffy, and this should not be a concern unless a major coat change is noticed. There is truly no way that you can alter a genetically based hair texture. Poor Diet and Nutrition One of the biggest reasons for a change in coat in an adult golden retriever is a lack of nutrition. This is also one reason why some goldens do not grow silky, shiny coats as they are not getting the nutrients needed. To ensure that your dog has a fluffy coat, you will want to guarantee they get the nutrients they need. Some signs of poor nutrition that can be noted from the coat alone are excessive shedding, bald patches or extreme loss of hair, dry hair, dandruff, and more. If you notice any of these signs, you will want to seek better quality nutrition for your pet. This can often be done on your own, but a vet can always point you in a proper direction. This will change as your dog grows older and you will want to update foods accordingly. Choose a higher quality food that has better ingredients. Unfortunately, better foods often come with a higher price tag but can be very beneficial to your dog. Try adding supplements to promote hair growth and quality. Omega-3 can be added and will help with coat quality immensely. This should be brought up at your next vet visit for more exact dosages. Environmental Changes Impact Coat Health If you have recently made a major move and brought your pet along or have had a recent change in seasons, this can have an effect. Dryer weather can often lead to a less supple coat. If you have noticed an increase in dry weather in your area, this could be the culprit. Offering more frequent bathing with a higher quality, moisturizing shampoo can also help immensely. If you live in an area that is dry often, you may want to combine these suggestions and speak to a vet for more options on what you can do for your pup. Unknown Health Concerns If you ever notice a change in coat in addition to a change in behavior or overall health, this can be a concern. While this could be a simple issue, it could also be something that needs immediate care. Beyond ensuring that your dog has a healthy coat, a vet can do screenings to find deeper issues. This will help guarantee your dog has a long, healthy life. Proper nutrition and quality routine care will almost guarantee your dog has a fluffy, soft, and silky coat. Share this:.

Located just 7 miles north of Covington, LA. For over 40 years, we have been providing the people of Louisiana with some of the finest Golden Retrievers. Fifteen years ago, we integrated Golden Doodles into our breeding program. If you are looking to add a member to your family, contact Hunnington Farms today. We have puppies for sale that are looking for that perfect home. Hunnington Farms is a breeding facility that believes in breeding the finest animals. We are a family-owned farm that started breeding dogs purely out of love for the animals. The way our dogs have always enriched our lives and assisted in running our farm made us want to breed the same dogs. We firmly believe the best possible dog breed for a single owner or a family with children are Golden Doodles and Golden Retrievers. No matter what trait you are looking for in your next pet, Hunnington Farms breeds the perfect dog for you. If a loyal, fun loving, ultra obedient and a true lifelong friend is what you want, we have the finest Golden Retriever puppies in Louisiana. If you? Thank you for visiting our website. Here you will find valuable information on the breeds we provide and the puppies we have for sale. We are a full service farm that has transformed a small portion into our breeding haven. We follow all AKC breeding requirements and go the extra mile to provide every home with the highest quality pet. All of our breeding dogs are OFA certified for hips, patellas, elbows, dental, and heart. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn About The Breeds. They are well socialized with cats, kids and other bigger dogs and potty train. They are 12 weeks old now and ready with all papers to go. I can ship my puppies to you. Knows sit, shake, stay, and fetch. Trained to get 2 papers daily. Loves playing Frisbee. Very playful. Good with kids and other dogs. Males and females. Excellent colors and markings. Good tails. Nice and chunky. Brought up with children and very well socialized. Raised on royal canine. Wormed to date. Quality puppies with amazing pedigree. Will make stunning show dogs and house pets. Mum is here to meet. All puppies will leave with 4 weeks free insurance. They are very beautiful, 10 weeks old and will be coming along with their health documents. Our 9weeks old old Goldie had 3 beautiful pups. .Mum and dad can be seen at our family home with all the puppies. Mum and dad have low hip scores. Mum 9 and dad .Both have current clear eye certificates. Dad is a registered AKC dog. Please only enquirer if you have genuine interest and have someone at home for the majority of the day. Golden retriever puppies are intelligent , affectionate and playful. Get to us for more details and pictures of puppies at xxx xxx-xxxx thanks View Detail Need help? Please contact contact petzlover. GSGRR is a c 3 nonprofit organization run by a small group of volunteers. We provide our dogs with veterinary care including spaying or neutering as necessary, evaluate their temperament, and socialize them by having them live with foster families. Then the dogs are matched with loving, carefully selected adoptive homes. We place our dogs in adoptive homes in the Gulf South. Each GSGRR member, officer, and foster care provider is a totally unpaid volunteer with family and work commitments. We strive to respond quickly to every inquiry received, but more importantly, we want to place the right dog in the right home. Should you not receive a timely reply, please click here for our main email address. If you would like more information on a dog available for adoption, please click on petfinder website. Yes, we get youngsters! Please note that we take in dogs of all ages. Because we typically have a waiting list of approved clients, many dogs are adopted before they have a chance to get onto the website. So if you don't see exactly the dog you're looking for listed here, please fill out an application and let us know what you're looking for. We will do our best to find the right dog for you! Here is some information on the Darlene Fund- for special needs dogs. They will help defray the costs associated with our Golden Retriever rescue program. Click below to make a secure payment via Paypal, or send a check to the address below. We are exempt from federal income tax under section a of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section c 3. Your donations are considered tax deductible. Thank you! Goldens are very loyal, and need a whole lot of time to run around and play. I now wish to become involved with therapy training for my golden retriever well behaved dog to the lives of each of our clients is our ultimate goal. Several years after its inception, PuppySpot. Get to know Bayou Golden Retrievers in Louisiana. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in Louisiana. Near Metairie, do most of my daily interaction. Find the best Golden Retriever for you. I want information about a new puppy! Thanks for submitting! I am very impressed with their spotlessly clean. When and if you ever lose a pet of quality golden retrievers We are located in Winnsboro Louisiana. You can also view Retriever Rescue, Inc. If you plan on adopting a Golden Retriever in Louisiana, you're saving a lot as Lady. Golden Retriever Puppy Alumni. Located in south Louisiana. Top 7 Best you help homeless dogs and shelters. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Lafayette, LA from. The golden retriever assisted a. Westtexasgoldens Both Parents on Premises. Charolias Golden Retrievers is an American Kennel Club registered dog breeder located in Central Louisiana which breeds a few litters each year. Southern Paw Goldens is a Louisiana based Golden Retriever breeder who specialize in as the darker dog. Buy Now Gigis Golden Kennels 1 male and 2 females available. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale species than its tawny American cousin. With Puppies For Sale! Hunningtons Goldens, home of quality AKC Golden Retrievers, was established in , and is a family owned and operated breeding facility. Big Lake Golden Retrievers 6. Top 7 Best was part of a litter of 10 born under. Please feel free to share all your favorite photos, ask questions, plan play dates, and get to know each other! Learn More About Golden Miracles. Over ten years ago we started our little family and never knew we would be placed in a position to love, care, and raise Golden's like we do. Buzz was brought into our care with pets. Welcome to Big Lake Golden Retrievers. Golden Retriever Puppies for whole lot of time to run around and play. Shor'Line Golden Retrievers. Charolias Golden Retrievers Announcement Welcome! Check out my new announcement. Hungary Kiskoros, HU. According to their website, they have been working with Golden Retrievers for more than. He was part of a litter of 10 born under a house in the outskirts of Bakersfield. Good in a home with Other dogs, cats, children. Golden Retriever Breeders in Louisiana! I now wish to become involved with therapy training for my golden retriever Lady. We are a small family kennel where all of our dogs are treated as part of our family. I am very impressed with their spotlessly clean facility. Breeders and businesses of puppies that were listed for sale in Louisiana. They began as a mix of Retrievers, Spaniels, and Red Setter. Champion Line Golden Retriever Puppies. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Metairie, LA from. Our goal is to provide each family with a healthy loving puppy. View All Looking for Golden Private. How Much is Golden Retriever in Louisiana? We analyzed the prices of 15 Golden Retriever Puppies are on the way! Check out the "News Updates" tab for our latest updates. Finding the perfect Golden Retriever puppy has never been easier. Charolias Golden Retrievers 5. Louisiana Golden Retriever Rescue. Parents are screened for genetic and White Gender Female. We love all types of Goldens - some. They are a breeder of American Field Golden Retrievers, a type of Goldens that are smaller, leaner and have shorter hair than a regular Golden. If you are unable to find your Golden Retriever puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking focus on offering high-quality multi-purpose Goldens. I specialize in breeding playful and hard-working. We take in purebred Golden Retrievers. Call Victor Farmerville, LA. Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Golden Retriever near you. He is a bully to male dogs smaller than him. ZenDog has done a marvelous reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Gulf South Golden Retriever puppy for sale, read on. Charolias Golden Retrievers. The white golden retriever, also called the English cream golden retriever, might appear to be a different species than its tawny American cousin. Golden Retriever Puppies. Located just 7 miles north of Covington, La. Below you can find the list of all Golden Retriever breeders in Louisiana. We've connected loving homes to yours, you have definitely lost a loved one! We take pride in what we do. As always, we take special pride in our breeding program. Haze Golden Retriever Mix St. Goldens are very loyal, and need a you help homeless dogs and shelters. Puppies will be vaccinated and they are ready now. Find Golden Retriever dogs and puppies from Louisiana breeders. Goldens with darker coats. GSGRR is a c 3 nonprofit organization run by a small group of volunteers. Quality Golden Retriever Puppies are on the way! Leesville Golden Retriever puppies and Jan 31st! Address — Friendship Church Rd, Amite. Home Page - Our Family Pedigrees. Local Golden Retriever Clubs. See puppy photos, reviews, health information. Search results for: Golden Retriever puppies yours, you have definitely lost a loved one! Search results for: Jan 31st! We analyzed the prices of 15 Golden Retriever puppies that were listed for sale in Louisiana. GSGRR is a job. Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to perfect our. Falkor is a very laid back calm boy and loves to sleep near you! Completely house broke. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Louisiana from trusted breeders. He Retriever puppy for sale, read on. We have answers. What should I know about Goldendoodle puppies for sale near Baton Rouge? Goldendoodles are a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle. They are intelligent and loyal, as well as being very friendly and social. They are naturally hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies. Goldendoodles typically require daily grooming, as their fur grows quickly and tangles easily. For this reason they are often clipped a few times a year. They are generally active canines who need plenty of exercise to remain healthy and to prevent destructive behaviour. With Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Baton Rouge, what is their coat like? The Goldendoodle has a unique coat that is a combination of its two parent breeds, the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. Its coat can vary in length and texture, but it is usually soft and wavy. Most Goldendoodles have a coat that does not shed heavily, making them a great option for people with allergies. The colors of a Goldendoodle's coat vary and can include solid colors, two-tones, sable, and parti. What do Baton Rouge Goldendoodle puppies for sale eat? Goldendoodles, a hybrid breed of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, are active and energetic dogs that require a balanced diet tailored to their breed and lifestyle. The best diet for your Goldendoodle should include quality dry kibble, wholesome proteins and fats, as well as fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables and healthy fruits. The addition of supplements such as probiotics, fatty acids, and natural enzymes can help with digestion. Avoid giving your Goldendoodle table scraps or low-grade dog food that is filled with fillers and by-products. What are some essentials I should buy before getting Goldendoodle puppies in Baton Rouge? Before diving into dog ownership, a few items are necessary to ensure that your Goldendoodle has a safe and comfortable setup. Consider investing in appropriate chews and toys to keep them entertained, as well as food and water bowls to make mealtimes easier. You'll also need a collar and leash for walks and other outings, as well as a bed and furniture covers. Grooming products such as a deshedder, toothbrush, and nail clippers will keep their coat and oral health in check. Are Goldendoodles for sale in Baton Rouge considered big dogs? Goldendoodles can range in size, depending on the type of breed used for the mix. Generally, they are considered a medium or moderately-sized dog compared to other breeds. They typically stand between 16" and 25" in height at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere from 18 lbs. Of course, their size can vary greatly depending on sex and type of Poodle used as a parent in the breeding process. How many minutes per day should I walk Goldendoodle puppies near Baton Rouge? Walking your Goldendoodle is a great way to keep them healthy and give them some exercise. The amount of time you should walk your Goldendoodle per day depends on their age, size, and activity level, but generally speaking, an adult Goldendoodle should get between 30 and 45 minutes of moderate exercise each day. If your Goldendoodle is a pup, you should start with shorter walks of around 10 to 15 minutes. As your pup grows, gradually increase the length and intensity of the walks. Do Goldendoodles in Baton Rouge get along with kids? Goldendoodles have a strong reputation for being friendly, gentle, and affectionate dogs that make excellent family pets, especially with children. Thanks to their intelligence, Goldendoodles are highly trainable and tend to get along well with kids, making them a good choice for those with young families. Goldendoodles are also social and don't mind being around many people at once, making them ideal for children's activities that involve large groups. Furthermore, Goldendoodles typically have a calm demeanor, so they won't become overly-excited in situations involving children and other pets. Are Baton Rouge Goldendoodles for sale smart? Goldendoodles are very intelligent and intuitive dogs, known to be highly attentive and very eager to learn. They are easily trainable and can safely and quickly pick up on new commands as well as returning to the same command after some time has passed. Goldendoodles typically live to please their owners and are great family pets as a result of their loyalty and adeptness. They are amazing problem solvers and often surprise their owners with their ability to be creative and think outside of the box.

Reviewed by Petal Smart Petal Smart is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and has been an editor in the veterinary and medical sciences since .She has edited more than assignments, including research studies published in various academic journals, continuing medical education materials, and articles on pet health. Canine hip dysplasia is most often seen in large breeds like German Shepherd dogs , Saint Bernards , and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs , but a dog of any size and both male and female dogs may be affected. The cause of canine hip dysplasia isn't known. The condition is thought to have a genetic link, and dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Puppies from parents that have hip dysplasia will be more likely to develop the condition than puppies born to parents with normal hips. However, even dogs with normal parents can develop hip dysplasia. What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia? The pelvis cradles the head of the femur thigh bone in a cup-like socket of bone that forms the hip. Puppies typically are born normal, but as the puppy matures, the hip joint alignment becomes progressively worse. This places abnormal stress and wear on the bones when they rub together, and causes further joint degeneration and pain. Bones respond to stress by growing thicker, which makes the fit even worse. As the dog matures, this damage predisposes to arthritic changes and painful joints. Signs and Symptoms Severe hip dysplasia may become noticeable as early as four months of age, but is more typically seen in pups aged 9 months to 1 year. The painful condition causes limping , favoring of limbs, and difficulty rising, running, or jumping. Dysplastic pups may exhibit an odd wobbly gait when walking and "bunny hop" when running or climbing stairs, which may help to ease joint stress. Stairs can prove a particular challenge for these dogs, and sore hips and pain may prompt aggression , causing the pup to snap or flinch when touched. However, there are degrees of severity. Some pups may show few to no signs at all, and mild cases may go undiagnosed until the dog reaches middle age or older. How quickly, or to what extent degeneration occurs is in part determined by the pup's activity level. While healthy, normal hips probably won't be adversely affected by hard work or exuberant play, the dog with mild to moderate hip dysplasia develops more noticeable signs more quickly when excessive stress is placed on these joints. Fortunately, only a relatively small percentage of pets suffer the severest, most crippling form of the condition. The condition may also be influenced by lifestyle, nutrition, body weight, and activity level. The puppy is placed on its back and the veterinarian looks for the typical arthritic changes and subluxation laxity of the joint. Some changes may not become evident until the pup reaches 2 years old, and experts say there may be considerable changes from 6 to 9 months up to 1 year. The OFA provides a consulting service for purebred dog owners and breeders, through which it reviews hip X-rays provided by an owner to evaluate the dog's conformation and, when normal, certifies that fact. The PennHip testing method, developed by Dr. Reputable breeders have dog parents tested prior to breeding to make sure they do not have hip dysplasia and reduce the chance of the condition in puppies. Dogs can be certified free of hip dysplasia by sending appropriate X-rays to either the OFA registry or the PennHip registry. This is evaluated by three radiologists who score the hips fair, good, or excellent. PennHip evaluation uses computer analysis to compare the X-rays to all the other dogs of that breed in the registry. Management of Hip Dysplasia There is no cure for hip dysplasia. Treatment is aimed at relieving pain and improving joint function. How well treatment works depends on the severity of the problem. Often, mild to moderate cases of hip dysplasia can be managed with gentle exercise, a healthy diet, and oral pain relievers like buffered aspirin or Rimadyl as prescribed by the veterinarian. Moderate exercise helps maintain and improve the puppy's muscle tone, which alleviates painful wear and tear on the joint. Encourage your dysplastic puppy to take short walks with you. Swimming is an ideal exercise, but jumping and prolonged running should be discouraged. Keep your puppy lean; obesity increases joint strain and can make the condition worse. Massage can also help the dog feel better. Severe cases of hip dysplasia may benefit from surgery that rebuilds or removes bone or alters the muscles and tendons to reduce pain. More from The Spruce Pets. If your dog qualifies for surgeries, you have even more options. Tips for Preventing Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds Although not all cases of hip dysplasia can be prevented, a good majority can. Even if hip dysplasia is not preventable in your dog, you can use these tips to minimize pain caused by the condition. This can make a huge difference in whether your dog develops hip dysplasia. The best reputable breeders will even provide a screening for their puppies. After the screening, which can only be done after 16 weeks of age, you can know if a puppy is predisposed to hip dysplasia. From an early age, make sure to provide your dog with high-quality dog food specific for large breeds. For example, get a large-breed puppy-specific dog food when your dog is young, and switch to an adult dog food once the dog ages. Note that most senior dog foods are not generic, so your vet will be the best person to help you choose which product is best for your older German Shepherd. Only provide your dog as much food as they need, never under or over. Both malnutrition and obesity increase the risk for hip dysplasia development. If you are unsure how much to feed your dog, talk to your vet for recommendations. Right Exercise Exercise is another factor you need to consider carefully if you want to prevent hip dysplasia in your German Shepherd. Preventative Supplements Image Credit: ElenVik, Shutterstock You can begin giving preventative supplements to your dog to nourish their joints. One of the most popular is glucosamine. This supplement is prescribed to dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia, but you can use it for preventative measures too. Of course, preventative supplements will have a lower glucosamine count than prescribed medications. Final Thoughts If you suspect that your German Shepherd is experiencing hip dysplasia, please visit the vet right away. Luckily, most German Shepherds with hip dysplasia live long and robust lives. If they get a great treatment, you can expect your dog to be happy and carefree. By starting a well-rounded prevention plan from an early age, you can help your dog grow with minimal issues. Featured Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay Contents. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hindlegs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many German Shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall, showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting the pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently German Shepherds are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for geographically different populations of the same breed Brass .However, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some owners may have had dogs pre-screened and only submitted apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. In this study, German Shepherd dogs had a higher odds ratio of hip dysplasia occurrence than Dobermanns, Labradors and Rottweilers, indicating that the breed is at a significantly higher risk of hip dysplasia development. Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Heritability estimates are used to demonstrate how much variation in a phenotypic trait is due to genetic variation among individuals in a population. Using hip scores published by the British Veterinary Association, heritability for hip scores of German Shepherd dogs was 0. Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the German Shepherd dog is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints eg Greyhounds would score 0, as is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed medianscore e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E — severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating eg the inbreeding coefficient. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of German Shepherd dogs , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. Helps with joint lubrication 4. NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Just like humans, dogs can benefit from taking certain pain medications to treat their hip dysplasia. In particular, NSAIDs can benefit your dog by reducing some of the pain and inflammation that hip dysplasia causes. There are some great charts available online that show you how much your German Shepherd should weigh at various stages of his life. Hard surfaces can be especially painful for your dog to walk on, so avoid walking on asphalt and sidewalks and instead take him for a walk in a grassy park. Repair and Prevent Cartilage Deterioration We mentioned cartilage a bit earlier. When your dog moves, cartilage helps cushion the joint. But it can become damaged when your dog has hip dysplasia. Over time, this cartilage deteriorates, causing pain and inflammation. Another word for this cartilage deterioration? Fortunately, certain active ingredients can help maintain joint health and reduce the likelihood that the secondary condition of arthritis will form as a result of German Shepherd hip dysplasia. In particular, the active ingredients of chondroitin and glucosamine for dogs help maintain cartilage health. These two naturally occurring substances work together to not only repair damaged cartilage but also prevent it from deteriorating in the first place. Lubricate Joints Hyaluronic acid is another key active ingredient that benefits dogs suffering from German Shepherd hip dysplasia by improving joint mobility and reducing discomfort. In particular, hyaluronic acid may help reduce the pain your dog experiences as a result of hip dysplasia. And how does it do that? Well, hyaluronic acid is an important component of synovial fluid. So it stands to reason that making sure your dog has enough hyaluronic acid is a great way to ensure his hip joints can move as smoothly as possible. But fortunately, MSM, a powerful antioxidant and building block for healthy joints, can help reduce the pain and inflammation your dog experiences from hip dysplasia. And the great news is that this ingredient is often found in joint supplements. Additionally, MSM may become even more effective when used alongside glucosamine, another common active ingredient. Yes, that is indeed our product. Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a great way to minimize the risk of puppies inheriting any serious and life altering genetic conditions. Of course, nature works in mysterious ways and not always can genetic defects be avoided. However, health screening is the best and most sure-fire way of reducing the risks. Health guarantees cover any major genetic conditions that the parent pups have been tested for and they usually cover the first two years from adoption. Many Labradoodle breeders have listed their customer testimonials on their website, but you should also check for reviews on Google, Facebook, here at Doodle Doods , Yelp, or Reddit. Their dogs live with them inside the home to ensure that they get all the attention and love they deserve. In addition to that, their puppies are born and raised in their home, where they receive constant supervision and care. What Makes This Breeder Unique? All of their breeding dogs have gone through health and genetic testing to ensure the health of the puppies. Feel free to contact Angel Breeders for more information. They specialize in breeding healthy medium-sized Labradoodle puppies with unconventional coat colors like red or apricot brown. All the puppies have their origins in pedigree dog lines and are tested to be in good health. Both the parents are thoroughly tested as well before going ahead with the breeding process. This ensures that all the puppies are born healthy and are covered with a 3-year health guarantee. Cream Puff Details Contact: don creampufflabradoodles. She hoped to combine the amiability of the Retriever, along with the warm temperament of the Poodle. As a result, today, we have this energetic doodle who can be a wonderful family dog. Initially, they were bred with the intention of training them as guide dogs or therapy dogs. But around the late s, their joyful and gentle nature made them very popular as home pets. Types Of Labradoodle Since the Labradoodle is not an independent breed, there can be certain inconsistencies in temperament or appearance. So, their sizes can vary depending on the size of the parent Poodle. On the other hand, the parent Labrador Retriever determines the type of coat for the Labradoodle pup. The fur type can be unpredictable due to this and can vary from soft to woolly or wiry. In addition, they can also belong to four categories of breeding. People generally prefer the generation having more hereditary Poodle qualities. The dominant Poodle trait typically makes them hypoallergenic or non-shedding. Therefore, it would be beneficial to acquaint yourselves with the different types of breeding categories before adopting Labradoodle puppies in New Jersey NJ. F1 Labradoodles The F1 breed is the healthiest as it is a first-generation cross between purebred Poodles and Labrador Retrievers. These puppies possess equally dominant traits of both their parent breeds. When purebred Poodles mate with a grown Labradoodle, F1B breeds of puppies are born. They, too, have equally dominant traits of both the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. F3 Labradoodles F3 Labradoodle puppies are the least healthy breed, as it is a cross between two F2 Labradoodles. Such a multigenerational cross is typically a backcross between multiple generations of Poodle. Labradoodles are usually dogs with high energy. Regardless of their sizes, they are not well-suited to living in small-sized apartments. They can be high-spirited jumpers and are in need of constant mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Not that you need additional solid reasons to get yourselves a furry companion. But when it comes to Labradoodle puppies, there are reasons to convince you to adopt one. We have taken all these into consideration in our curated list of the five best Labradoodle breeders in New Jersey NJ. Comfort Companions Labradoodles are known to be highly affectionate and have an upbeat personality. They were initially bred to be therapy or guide dogs, so they are extra sensitive too. Picking up on human emotions or body language is natural to them. They are the type of dogs that will try to comfort and cuddle you if they detect you are feeling sad. You can also expect them to greet you at your door after a tedious day and make you feel better with just their energy. Having a Labradoodle would mean that you will always be moving and on your toes. So, you will hardly have to feel lonely. Trainability Labradoodles are known to be pretty easy to train. They derive the intelligence traits from two very smart dog breeds, the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. The combined genetics, therefore, makes the Labradoodle a super-dog in terms of intelligence. On the other hand, their nature makes them eager to please anyone. As a result, they will pick up all the tricks that you teach them very swiftly! Final Words It is not without reason that Labradoodle pups are such a sought-after breed for family pets. Their affectionate nature, gentle temperament, and adorable appearance will be sure to turn heads during walks at the dog park. Labradoodles can be the most amazing pets. A creditable breeder will ensure that your dog will be healthy and, in turn, live a long life. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. English Manor Labradoodles on Facebook! They are Litter mates with matching everything, most of our puppies have the same temperaments because they were specifically bred to have a specific temperament that makes the Australian Labradoodle what it is today! ONE of the only Breeds ever in history to be specifically developed for use as a Therapy dog. Calm Happy easy to train dogs, that get along with other dogs pets and children. Or great for first time dog owners that need a nice easy going option to introduce them to the world of dogs. All our Authentic Australian Labradoodles used in our breeding program continue the traditional values and qualities that were stamped in this breed since the very beginning. Diva would just light up a room, she was just a love bug her disposition and her clownish ways were always cheering us up on our worst days. SO SO incredibly intuitive of our moods she always new when to cuddle with us. We continue on now with her great Granddaughters and we see SO much her personality within them. They are very suitable for first time dog owners, children , and other pets they do not have a mean bone in there BODY. Beautiful litter of 7. This litter could go home around end of August beginning of September. Sammy is out of one of our favorite Females Tippie. Sammy stole our hearts sooo much that she is our forever dog. She has such a docile sweet demeanor and she comes up to you and pets you softly with her paw. She is everything you strive for in an emotional support dog. A great granddaughter of our Foundation Female Diva and it shines through. Her puppies will be well suited for work with children, and PTSD support she has this incredible nature to calm a person, much like her mom Tippie. We care for our pups around the clock. It's very important to us that our pups are place into a safe enviroment and a very loving home where they will contine to be cared for and nurtured. Here at English Manor we invite you to come and learn about our dogs and the Authentic Australain Labradoodles and about all the love and joy they have brought to our family , to others and hopefully to yours. We have enjoyed all the comical charisma thats she has brought to our lives and all the wonderful fun loving pups and grand pups that have come, We hope that you to will share the excitement and enjoyment as you journey down this road with us! Please provide as much information as you can when filling out the application form as I use this info to create the contract as well submit it to the microchip companies after the purchase of your pup. We are only using the information to contact you. If you would like to be informed about the breed or would like to schedule an appointment to come see the dogs please call us. We love to hear from our prospective buyers. Your personality and circumstances play a big role in your labradoodles happiness. Please feel free to call us for info about Australian labradoodle temperament, physical needs and available litters. Labradoodles for sale, labradoodles in ny, Arabian horses for sale, National Show horse for sale, Labradoodle breeding dogs and Labradoodle breeding stock Available. Australian Labradoodles only. This breeder has been producing high-quality Doodle puppies since .The focus here is on socializing the puppies and educating potential owners so that the transition from the breeder to your home is as seamless and smooth as possible. The parent dogs are DNA tested to rule out any genetic diseases, and the puppies are all health checked by a vet before leaving for their new homes. But how do you sort the best breeders from the not-so-good? Website If the breeder has a website, look to see if they have legitimate contact details, including a telephone contact number and an email address. Some breeders ask you to contact them via an online form on their website, which is fine, too. Look closely at the website for obvious errors: Online scammers often copy and paste text and images from legitimate breeder sites. Often, photographs lifted from legitimate breeder sites are incorrectly captioned. Look closely at the photographs on breeder websites to see if there are watermarks on the images. That indicates that the pictures have been copied from sites such as Shutterstock. References and Testimonials Reputable breeders can provide you with genuine customer references and testimonials. So, always ask to see some before you commit to buying a puppy. Customer Vetting Responsible breeders will not sell puppies to random people online or through pet stores. Usually, you will be encouraged to visit the breeder to view the puppies and meet the parents. That also allows the breeder to meet you and make sure that you have the necessary experience and facilities to take one of their puppies. Breeding Kennels A responsible, ethical breeder will not keep their breeding dogs and puppies in cages or crowded places. All the dogs will live in clean, roomy, comfortable areas. How Many Puppies? Responsible Labradoodle breeders only produce a limited number of puppies each year. Also, good breeders usually specialize in one breed of dog rather than breeding many different types of puppies. So, if you want a Labradoodle, choose a breeder that only breeds different types of Doodles. Veterinary Records Good, ethical Labradoodle breeders will happily show you individual records of health screening and veterinary visits for your puppy and its parents. Contract A responsible breeder will expect you to sign a contract stating that you will have your puppy desexed as soon as he or she is old enough to have the operation. The contract will probably go further and state that you do not have breeding rights for your dog. Prices Check the price of the Labradoodles that the breeder is offering for sale. Guarantee Most good breeders offer health guarantees with their Labradoodles. The guarantee is usually for a period of one or two years and gives you redress to the breeder if your puppy develops congenital health problems during that time. As mentioned above, when it comes to buying a Labradoodle puppy, you get what you pay for. You can expect to wait a long time before you finally get your Labradoodle puppy! All good breeders have a waiting list for their pups, which can be anything from six months to two years! Breeder Mill Red Flags Breeder mills are more commonly called puppy mills or puppy farms. These operations produce vast numbers of puppies as cheaply as possible to make the largest profit. Unfortunately, that leads to substandard parent dogs being used in the breeding operation that are rarely health screened and are often kept in very poor conditions. The puppies produced by puppy farms are often of poor quality and can even have existing illnesses when they go to their new owner. Puppies produced by these backyard breeder mills are often sold for cheaper prices than those bred by reputable breeders, catching out many unwary buyers. Here are some top tips to help you avoid being duped by a puppy farm. Many Different Breeds Most reputable breeders specialize in one or two breeds. If you see an advert for multiple breeds, check out similar ads. If the same breeder is advertising lots of different breeds, they could be a puppy mill. Never pay for a puppy without seeing the animal first. Puppies are generally eight weeks of age before they can have their first vaccinations. If an ad states that the pups are less than eight weeks old and have been vaccinated, that could indicate a puppy farm. How Much? Puppy mills want to shift as many puppies as quickly as possible to exploit the current trend and generate maximum profits. To do that, they typically work on selling quantity rather than quality. Cheap puppies are usually from backyard breeders. Be Prepared To Wait Most reputable, ethical breeders will ask you to complete an application form and even be interviewed for your suitability to take one of their puppies. You will then be placed on a waiting list until a puppy becomes available. Health Certificates A good breeder can show you a clean, current health certificate for their parent breeding dogs, with proof of deworming, flea prevention treatment, and vaccination papers for the puppies. Contract Good breeders will ask you to sign a contract stating that you will not breed from your puppy without their permission. Meanwhile, if you decide to buy a puppy outside New Jersey, make sure that you check out our list of ethical breeders from neighboring states to avoid falling into the hands of puppy mills:. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in New Jersey? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in New Jersey. Soft, Cuddly, Cute Australian Labradoodles are truly one of the cutest breeds, and our dogs are bred to be even more adorable than your average Doodle. Friendliest Dispositions Loved for their friendliness and patience, our Australian Labradoodles are always in the mood for whatever you feel like doing. From jogging buddies to nap-time cuddle buddies, life is always better with a Doodle by your side. Extremely Intelligent Labradoodles are super smart, which is no surprise considering they share genes with eager-to-please dogs like the Labrador Retriever and brilliant pooches like the Poodle. Training your Aussie Labradoodle is an absolute blast! The Uptown Family Our dogs are like family to us, and we want to give your family the greatest chance to succeed with your new Labradoodle. Perfect Family Pet Our Doodles get along great with just about everyone—from big families with kids and pets, to people who are looking for a companion on their solo adventures. Labradoodles are adaptable and bring joy to families of all sizes! But the best part is that you get to pick—just another benefit of working with Uptown. Premium Network of Labradoodle Breeders in New Jersey To meet the huge demand for our Doodles without sacrificing their health or happiness, we formed a premium network of breeders who share our passion and love of dogs. Highest New Jersey Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders follow strict guidelines to preserve the wellbeing of our dogs. That means litter limits and breeding age restrictions for our mommy Doodles, and ensuring both parents and puppies enjoy outstanding living conditions. Hidden Springs Labradoodles creates life long memories and family members that elevate our lives. Labradoodles Originally bred to be hypoallergenic service dogs Labradoodles have become one of the most popular breeds around. Responsible Breeding Our Breeding dogs have their DNA tested and certified, Hips and elbows certified, and Eyes certified and cleared for congenital defects. Responsible Ownership Responsible pet owners treat their canine friends like family and realize it is a commitment for the life of your dog. Trainability We recommend training your puppy as much as possible. The best puppies know their boundaries and are taught what is expected with love and devotion. This is usually a Standard Poodle but smaller Poodles are sometimes used to breed a smaller dog. Generally Labradoodles are largish dogs. Temperment Temperament will vary but typically, if well socialized as puppies, the labradoodle will be a lively, good natured family pet. Hypoallergenic There is the potential for owners to less likely to be allergic to these dogs, but zero or low allergy is not guaranteed even within the same litter. Find Out More Grooming Coat type is varied. Although coat type varies, your labradoodle will need plenty of exercise and stimulation, with regular opportunities to walk off lead. Act fast because they will not last long.

However, that price can increase significantly, even into five figures, depending on the location and reputation of the breeder. Reproducing requires artificial insemination. These factors increase the investment for French bulldog breeders. The more investment a breeder makes into producing healthy high-quality dogs in good environments, the higher the price will be. The rarer the color is, such as blue, lilac or chocolate, the more you can expect to pay. Certain coat patterns, such as pied, merle or brindle, will also be more expensive. Female French bulldogs and those with blue eyes are pricier as well. Adopting through the French Bulldog Rescue Network is a more affordable way to acquire a new puppy or adult Frenchie. The French bulldog breed is exceptional with many rare characteristics that make them popular among dog owners. But there are also some challenges and things to watch out for. French Bulldog Size Fully grown French bulldogs average 12 inches tall. Adult females often weigh between 16 and 24 pounds, and males reach 20 to 24 pounds. Most French bulldogs will continue to gain weight until about 14 months old but stop gaining height between nine and 12 months. There are also mini Frenchies, also known as teacup French bulldogs. These are bred to be miniature versions of standard French bulldogs, weighing between five and 14 pounds. They typically shed in spring and fall, so you should increase coat brushing during that time to help reduce hair in your home. This can help you save on grooming costs. French Bulldog Appearance Along with breeds like English Bulldogs and pugs, French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened snout. Their faces are wrinkly and scrunched, giving them a distinct look, even as puppies. French Bulldog Colors French bulldogs come in many different coat colors. These include neutral colors — such as cream, gray, tan and black — as well as more rare colors like lilac, blue and chocolate. The rarer the color, the more expensive the price of a French bulldog will be. French Bulldog Temperament These pups are affectionate and playful, making them great companions. Training is recommended for French bulldogs since they can march to the beat of their own drum without guidance. Most Frenchies respond well to training, especially when treats are involved. Trainers believe French bulldogs understand commands but are moody and will respond as they feel like it. Frenchies are great family dogs, do well around other pets and prefer companionship. A companion will also allow you to leave them alone for longer periods of time without them getting frustrated. But, of course, another pet will come with its own costs. French Bulldog Activity Level Frenchies are not the best dog if you want a jogging companion. French Bulldog Life Expectancy French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 12 years if well taken care of. If they remain in great health, they can live as long as 15 years. Your veterinarian will periodically examine your Frenchie to ensure he or she is growing properly. Due to their flat faces and short necks, it can be difficult for French bulldogs to use standard feeding bowls. You can instead provide elevated dog food and water bowls to help your pet eat and drink more comfortably. Buying treats, toys or a comfortable dog bed can also help your Frenchie feel welcome in its new home. They were bred to be smaller versions of the larger bulldog and quickly became popular companions for Parisians living in small spaces. They have bat-like ears, can have a range of colors, and boast a short, smooth coat. They tend to weigh 28 pounds or less and are easily trainable. This is something to consider before bringing one into your home. The cost of a French bulldog varies based on where you buy it, as well as other unique factors about the dog. Purchasing a French bulldog from a breeder will typically cost more than adopting one from a shelter or rescue. How much does it cost to buy a French bulldog from a breeder? How much does it cost to adopt a French bulldog from a rescue? Sometimes, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is free. Why are French bulldogs so expensive? French bulldogs have long been one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. French bulldogs are also difficult to breed. They typically require artificial insemination and C-sections upon delivery. This can increase the cost for breeders, who pass those expenses onto the consumer via high prices. Factors that affect the price of a French bulldog Many factors can make a Frenchie — or any dog, for that matter — more expensive than the next. Some colors are very common, including white, cream, and black. Rare colors, like merle, blue, brindle, and lilac, are more unique and typically fetch a higher price. Gender: Female dogs usually cost more than males since they have the ability to produce future generations — and future income if you decide to sell any of her puppies. Bloodline and genetics: If a dog has parents or grandparents who've won shows, have other accolades, or were AKC-registered, this can increase their price. Dogs with health guarantees may also cost more. Breeder: The location and quality of a breeder — as well as the animals, methods, and facilities they use — can vary widely. You can expect a highly regarded, long-time breeder with a great reputation to charge more than someone with less experience breeding French bulldogs. Sometimes their price can be double that of a Frenchie in a common color like white or black. Boarding or pet sitting If you send your pup to doggie daycare, have them boarded while traveling, or hire a pet sitter, this will add to your ongoing costs. Ongoing classes may cost more than this, though. Pet insurance — if you decide to purchase it — may offset some of these costs, as well as other medical expenses. The American Kennel Club claims that Frenchies need coat grooming only once per month. What are some common French bulldog health problems? Hemivertebrae: Hemivertebrae can cause your dog to develop triangle-shaped vertebrae that can result in pain, weakness, and paralysis. Hip dysplasia: This is when the hip joint degenerates and no longer fits properly into the socket. It can often occur in Frenchies that are over-exercised. Patellar luxation: This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. It can cause walking problems and arthritis. Your Frenchie may also develop issues outside of these breed-specific problems that may also need treatment. What is the best insurance plan for your Frenchie? Some pet insurance plans cover only accidents and injuries, while others include preventative care, dental care, vaccinations, and other services. Consider your lifestyle and what activities you plan to do with your Frenchie before selecting a plan. Additional coverages may cost more. Asking for referrals from friends, family members, or colleagues who have bought Frenchies is one place to start. This can help you gauge the conditions the dog will be born into and the genetic line they come from. You can also look out for the signs of a responsible dog breeder, as outlined by the Humane Society of the United States. Is a French bulldog the right dog breed for you? French bulldogs might be right for you if you can afford the potentially high initial investment and are willing to spend time playing and socializing with your pup, as they are affectionate, playful, and active animals. The American Kennel Club says this breed is good with young children, good with other dogs, and overall very trainable. French bulldog FAQs French bulldogs are a unique and popular breed. What is the life expectancy of a French bulldog? French bulldogs have a life expectancy of nine to 12 years. This is slightly less than the average dog, which lives an average of 10 to 13 years. Do French bulldogs bark a lot? French bulldogs are not big barkers. A short daily walk should be enough for this small breed, making them a good fit for apartment and city life, where yards and large lots can be hard to find. What is the cheapest French bulldog? Purebred dogs represent only a small portion of shelter animals, so you may find yourself with a mixed Frenchie if you adopt one. What is the most expensive Frenchie? The rarest Frenchies tend to be the most expensive. How much is a French bulldog worth? Related articles. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. Depending on where you live sorry California, it is expensive where you are! This could indicate the dog is coming from a puppy mill. You can read why you should avoid buying dogs from puppy mills here. But the popularity of the dog means there can be a lot of competition for the Frenchies that do need a home. There are a lot of factors that can influence price, and if you are looking for a show dog or a dog for breeding, you should expect to pay a lot more. Certain colors, which are desirable but genetically quite rare, can also push up the price. A brindle or black puppy will usually be at the lower end of the scale, but a breeder might ask a lot more for a platinum or blue fawn puppy. This is Micro, a perfect body specimen for a Frenchie. He also has a blue coat and orange eyes, which are quite rare in dogs. What About Mini Frenchies? Mini Frenchies, also known as Teacup Frenchies, are the same fantastic dog, but they are quite a bit smaller than usual. You can expect them to weigh just 5 to 14 pounds on average. Due to their smaller size, though, their bodies can be fragile, so it is important not to engage in rough play with them. These dogs are even harder to breed see below than standard French bulldogs, so they are also quite a bit more expensive. Why are they so expensive, then? One factor is high demand since they are a very desirable dog breed. But that is not the whole story, since Labs are also one of the most popular dog breeds. Health Problems One of the biggest factors is these dogs have a lot of health problems. Most of their health issues are related to their flat, brachycephalic faces similar to Pugs and American bulldogs , which makes them particularly prone to breathing issues and allergies. This unique facial structure can also affect the formation of their jaw, and the health of their eyes, and can even affect their healing from certain illnesses and injuries. On top of this, they can also be prone to hip dysplasia, kneecap shifts, and heat stress. Fortunately, breeders try to control these breed-specific issues. It is essential that responsible breeders do their best to control these conditions, which means DNA scanning, genetic testing, multiple trips to the vet, and paying extra close attention to the developing puppies. Of course, all of this comes with a cost. Breeding Problems The other big problem is that Frenchies are extremely hard to breed. As well as the operation itself is expensive, the mother and pups need extra care afterward. Plus, breeders need to give their mother dogs significantly longer to recuperate before they can think about breeding them again. On top of that, French bulldogs have small litters—usually just three puppies. It is very unusual for a Frenchie to have five or more puppies in a single litter. So, if you are looking for a French bulldog puppy, you can expect to be on a waiting list for several months before a puppy is available. As well as being expensive to buy, French bulldogs can be pretty costly to care for, again mostly because of their health problems. They will probably need regular trips to the vet, and insuring them can be expensive because they are known to have health issues. But what are some of the main costs that you can expect to incur when bringing home a new puppy? Supplies It can surprise pet parents just how many things you need to care for a new dog. For starters, your new pup will need a bed, toys, bowls, a collar, and a leash. A crate can also be a big expense if you choose to crate train. However, because crate training is not so common among French bulldogs, first-time owners might also want to consider some professional training classes. Food Food is one of the biggest neverending expenses for any dog. Puppy food is also a bit more expensive than adult food because of its high protein content. Ideally, your dog should be eating puppy food until they are about 9 months old. French bulldogs should be eating around 25 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight each day. You can read more about pet insurance for puppies here. They will usually only bark when there is something wrong, so it is worth paying attention when they do vocalize. This is one of the reasons why they make excellent apartment dogs. While French bulldogs are adorable, they are specifically bred for their appearance, and this has led to a lot of genetic issues that affect their health and can leave them in a lot of pain in their later years. Many people object to putting the health of an animal second to appearance and therefore object to buying French bulldogs and supporting the purebred breeding industry. In theory, if there was no demand for these dogs, this kind of exploitative breeding would stop. In practice, this is difficult to imagine, considering how popular the breed is. Can French bulldogs stay home alone? French bulldogs actually tolerate being left alone relatively well. However, all dogs need a lot of love and companionship, and no dog responds well to being left on their own for 10 hours a day five days a week. Dogs become members of the family, and if they are going to thrive, they need to be treated with that kind of attention. Are Frenchies hard to potty train? However, they are little dogs with small bladders. They also tend to gobble down their food, which means they can be prone to smelly gas expulsions. How much exercise does my Frenchie need? French bulldogs do well on just a 15 to minute vigorous walk each day. They are also quite playful, so they burn off energy just playing around as well. Are French bulldogs aggressive? Despite the reputation of bulldogs, Frenchies are not aggressive. They are friendly and get on well with people and other animals. However, all animals are a combination of nature and nurture, so they can learn aggressive habits if they are not properly cared for. Are Frenchies high maintenance? They can also be left alone without expecting too much trouble. On the other hand, their tendency towards breed-specific health issues does mean they need regular visits to the vet. They may need special medications for things like breathing issues, and in later life, they may need things like a special bed. The Verdict French bulldogs are excellent dogs. They are great little companions who will find it easy to live in your apartment with you, but they are also fun-loving and curious. While they are great dogs, they are also quite expensive. This is due to high demand and some pretty serious difficulties when it comes to breeding them. They have small litters, almost always delivered by c-section, and health screenings and vet visits are a big burden for breeders. If you want something special, such as a rare color, you should expect to pay a lot more. You can also expect them to be relatively expensive dogs to own because they do need regular and close contact with a good vet to maintain their health. At a glance, the French bulldog is: Highly intelligent and trainable Small, meaning it does well in fairly small apartments Expensive due to demand and how difficult they are to breed Prone to breed-specific health issues So, are they worth all this expense and trouble? We think they are. French bulldogs can be the ideal pet for first-time owners with limited space and time but a lot of love to give. 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.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. All of these take time in the early days. However, as the puppy matures and reaches adulthood, looking after a German Shepherd gets a little easier. Nonetheless, a young adult will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. Without anyone to fulfill this role, a German Shepherd will not be happy in your home no matter what kind of care you provide. You should only get a German Shepherd if: Your house has a backyard. Or you have enough space and enough dedication to take him on lots of walks to expend his pent-up energy. You have a family or regular company. German Shepherds mimic their owners, and if you are asocial, your dog might turn inwards and become aggressive to other people and pets. You have enough time to dedicate to your dog every day. If you leave him for extended periods every day, your dog will develop separation anxiety. Avoid getting a German Shepherd if you cannot be around him. You are an active person. If you enjoy outdoor activities, like walking or hiking, and love socializing, a German Shepherd will complement your life. More importantly, your new dog will be happier with you. You can afford their monthly expense. Monthly costs for food, treats, vet fees, toys, etc. Prior to this, you have the initial costs of a crate, bed, leash, harness, travel crate, playpen, etc. But if it is, then you will have a lot of fun and a fulfilling experience caring for your GSD. To care for a German Shepherd, you must feed him a highly nutritious diet, exercise him daily for 1. Ongoing training, twice-weekly grooming, and vet check-ups are all part of caring for a GSD. An adult dog needs to be fed twice per day to discourage bloat and ensure proper digestion, whereas a growing puppy will need feeding times a day at regular intervals. Your dog will need 1, to 2, calories per day depending on his weight. If you adopt a senior German Shepherd, he will need only 1, calories at a weight of 90 lbs. However, in most cases, owners looking for a guide to care for a German Shepherd have adopted a younger puppy. This UK study found that one disorder of GSDs recorded by vets included obesity, alongside joint issues and arthritis. I prefer going with breed-specific products made by trusted brands. You can then switch to the adult variety. Do you want to learn all about the best diet for German Shepherds? This is good because it allows you to anchor the command and familiarize your dog with the norm of going outside to go potty. German Shepherds will usually be fully house trained by six months and may only need to pee every hours. It also has the option of single or double doors. An asocial dog is a wolf to our subconscious. Your job is to promote curiosity by encouraging him to follow you around. Have tempting treats just around the corner. Egg him on to follow you by danging attractive playable objects like a tug rope. This is also a good time to start bringing home objects that the puppy is likely to witness outdoors. This builds a bridge of familiarity between the outdoors and the indoors. If you expose him to other humans during this period, including children, he becomes friendly. A German Shepherd exposed to humans at a young age is less anxious and gets treated better as a consequence. Some new dog owners make the mistake of waiting until their puppy is grown enough to go on walks then take them to meet people. By then, the pup has already built an idea of an in-group and sees all strangers as the out-group. You should carry your puppy and get him to experience different sights, sounds, smells, and noises as soon as you get him. Have friends and family pet him before he develops a biting reflex. With enough positive exposure during this stage, your pup will likely see human presence as a good thing. Stage Three: Other Dogs Your friends will want your new puppy to visit. To socialize your German Shepherd with other dogs, you need to reward him for being quiet and calm around them. Before full immunization, carry him to the dog park and let him observe the other dogs. Reward him for good behavior and speak calmly and with praise. Remove him from the situation if he growls or barks, and calm him down. Once he is calm, try again. Sufficiently Exercise Your German Shepherd Young German Shepherds are very energetic, and if they do not get a productive outlet to release their excess energy, they can become destructive. To avoid scratched furniture and chewed-up rugs, you should exercise your GSD sufficiently for his age. An adult dog will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. As a rough guide, a German Shepherd puppy needs 5 minutes of exercise twice a day for every month of age. So, an 8-week-old puppy can exercise for 10 minutes twice daily, while a three-month-old can exercise for 15 minutes twice daily. Follow this rule until the puppy is fully grown. Common mistakes to avoid when exercising the dog are: Taking a dog on walks outside before he is fully vaccinated — A puppy should not be taken out for walks until 2 weeks after the final vaccinations which are usually given between weeks .Letting the German Shepherd jump too early — Exercising a German Shepherd puppy entails being careful not to damage his growth plates. They can safely jump after they are fully grown at 18 months old. Not making exercise fun — If you treat exercise as simply that, your German Shepherd will not have fun. He can pick up on your mood, so you should make exercising enjoyable for you both. Mental exercise is easier to turn into a fun routine. From training a GSD to do party tricks to giving him fun puzzles to solve, there are many fun ways to provide mental stimulation for your German Shepherd. When your dog is bored, he might start bothering you by engaging in destructive attention-seeking behaviors. GSDs are among the smartest dog breeds, with the average dog being as intelligent as a two-year-old human. This puzzle doubles as a treat dispenser, which automates the reward mechanism. What I like about this specific product is that it comes in different levels of difficulty. With levels 1 through 4 produced by the same brand, you can reliably amp up the challenge level as your German Shepherd gets smarter. You can check out this article for some great tips on how to exercise your pup, 7 Fun Ways to Exercise a German Shepherd Puppy. During playtimes, you and your doggo are engaged in low-effort, enjoyable activities. Games are the bridge joining mental and physical exercise to constitute play. Here are some of the games you can play with your German Shepherd: Fetch — This is good for building rapport between you and your dog, improving his response time, and conditioning him for obedience. Hide and Seek — Playing hide and seek with your dog also improves his tracking skills. You train your dog to pick up a scent and follow clues. Tug of war — Playing tug of war with your German Shepherd can be a lot of fun. However, as your dog grows, you might find the game challenging once he is 90 lbs! So, bear this in mind if you play this game with your young pup. Cups and treats — This is a game where cups are turned upside down, and a treat is hidden underneath one cup. You quickly shuffle the cups changing their position, and the GSD gets a treat for pointing out the right one.